The Archangel March 2015 by Saint Michael and All Angels

the The Newsletter for Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

March 2015

Standing in the Gap and Building Bridges

the

Distinguished Lecture Series The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry

Lenten Evensong

Faith and Grief Luncheon

Lenten Evensong

25 29

Lenten Evensong

Palm Sunday

Volume 25, No. 11 Volume 27, No. 3

During the first two months of 2015 the news has not been good. The January 7 attack at Charlie Hebdo’s office in Paris not only targeted those who lampoon various groups, including Islam, but in the gruesome slaughter terrorists also murdered police officers and a maintenance worker. In the same week, at a kosher grocery store, also in Paris, Jews were the main target. One week later, Palestinian teens who were throwing rocks in protest over the continuing land-confiscation in East Jerusalem were gunned down by Israeli soldiers. And, if that’s not enough, ISIS, “The Islamic State” radical Islamic group, continues to bring terror to several places in the Middle East, most recently in Libya when they beheaded twenty-one Coptic Christians.

Annual Parish Meeting Picks New Vestry, Reviews Finances, Gets Campus Plan Report The agenda was full as members gathered Sunday, February 22 for the Annual Parish Meeting. Five new Vestry members were elected to three year terms ending in 2018, and for the first time delegates to the Diocesan Convention were named to staggered terms. The Treasurer, Stewardship Chairs, and the Foundation reported on the state of Saint Michael’s finances, and the campus plan committee presented its initial report following the all-parish survey conducted late last year. The campus plan committee’s report will be covered in another publication and online. For details about the Annual Meeting go to pages 4 and 5. The 2014 Annual Report is available online at www. saintmichael.org or print copies are available at several locations in the church.

Leaders among the three major world religions have lent moral backing to both non-violent, reconciling actions, and to military action against these most egregious acts. There have been several anti-Islam marches, including many moderate Islamic groups staging their own protests against the radicalization of their religion, and several Christian pacifist groups have struggled to suggest convincing alternatives at a time when proclaiming non-violence can seem naive, even heartless. At the same time, we have witnessed our own nagging national issues: continuing tensions between the African-American community and several police departments, the lack of civil discourse cont. on page 19

Fill at least one grocery bag during March and bring it to the South Lanai. A list of needed items is available at several locations throughout the church. Financial contributions are just as valuable. Make checks payable to North Dallas Shared Ministries and bring to the South Lanai receptionist.

Lent at Saint Michael Lenten Dinner and Evensong 5:30 Dinner in the Coke Activities Room 6:30 Evensong in the Church

Wednesday, March 4 The Rev. Gary Jones, Rector St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Richmond, Virginia Mercy in the Age of Instagram Exodus 33:12-33 Wednesday, March 11 The Rev. Dr. Donald Fishburne Rector, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (retired) Chattanooga, Tennessee Rich in Mercy Ephesians 2: 1-2a, 3-10 Wednesday, March 18 The Rt. Rev. Scott A. Benhase Bishop of Georgia Oh Mercy: Bob Dylan Tells Us Everything is Broken Matthew 9:0-13 Wednesday, March 25 The Very Rev. Katherine Moorehead Dean, St. John’s Cathedral

Jacksonville, Florida Mary Magdalene and Her Demons Luke 8:1-3 2

Room for Something to Begin Music for Lent

The Saint Michael Formation Team has created a soundtrack of songs for the Lenten season. To listen or download go to www. saintmichael.org/ songsforlent. CDs are available at convenient locations throughout the church. Take one for the car. Take one for a friend.

For Youth

Grades 6 -12th

and Parents

Explore how the journey to Easter is more than fasting. We meet at a friend’s home on Wednesday’s during Lent where we’ll enjoy a simple dinner, guitar music, fellowship, a great message, and Eucharist. March 4 Claire and Larry Hagenbuch 4309 Larchmont March 18 Christina and Jason Lindwall 3800 Purdue March 25 Christi and Cory Morrow 4334 Manning Lane

Holy Week and Easter at Saint Michael March 30 - Monday 7:00 am Eucharist ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 6:00 pm Eucharist ~ Saint Michael Chapel March 31 - Tuesday 7:00 am Eucharist ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 6:00 pm Eucharist ~ Saint Michael Chapel

April 4 - Holy Saturday 8:30 am Holy Saturday Liturgy ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 4:00 pm Baptism ~ Church 5:30 pm Candlelight Mass Vigil ~ Saint Michael Chapel 8:00 pm Easter Vigil ~ Church with Incense 9:30 pm Easter Vigil Reception ~ Parlor

April 1 - Wednesday 7:00 am Eucharist ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 10:00 am Healing Service ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 6:00 pm Eucharist ~ Saint Michael Chapel Liturgy of the Nails April 2 - Maundy Thursday 7:00 am Eucharist ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 5:30 pm Family Maundy Thursday Service ~ Theater 7:00 pm Eucharist, Foot Washing & Stripping of the Altar ~ Church 9:00 pm - 7:00 am.~ Night Watch ~ Bishop Moore Chapel April 3 - Good Friday 7:00 am Good Friday Liturgy ~ Bishop Moore Chapel 10:00 am Good Friday Workshop for Families 11:00 am Choral Stations of the Cross ~ Church 12:00 pm Good Friday Liturgy ~ Church 5:30 pm Family Good Friday Liturgy ~ Theater 6:00 pm Choral Good Friday Liturgy ~ Church

April 5 - Easter Sunday 6:00 am Sunrise Service ~ Garden Cloister 7:30 am Eucharist Rite I ~ Saint Michael Chapel 9:00 am Eucharist Rite II ~ Church with Incense 9:00 am Discovery Mass ~ Saint Michael Chapel 9:00 am Joy Mass ~ Parish Hall 11:00 am Eucharist Rite I ~ Church with Incense 11:00 a.m. Eucharist Rite II ~ Saint Michael Chapel 11:00 a.m. Eucharist Celebration ~ Theater 5:30 p.m. Evening Prayer & Eucharist ~ Saint Michael Chapel

Stations of the Cross Fridays

(during Lent)

6:00 p.m.

Church

Annual Parish Meeting New Vestry Members Elected, Officers Named Five new Vestry members and Diocesan convention delegates were elected at the Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, February 22. The newly elected Vestry members, who will serve three year terms expiring in 2018 are:

Senior Warden Matt Waller

Junior Warden Kathy Jenevein

Eric Conner

Treasurer Grady Schleier

Mark Demler

Chancellor Charlie Sartain

The Vestry named the following to serve as Assistant Chancellors: Dianna Bowen, Arnold Spencer, and Grant Wood.

Kathy Kelley

J.C. Snead

Clerk Margaret Spellings

Margaret Spellings

At its first meeting following the Annual Meeting the Vestry elected the following officers for 2015-2016:

It named the following to serve as Assistant Treasurers: Bill Felder, John Gorman, Barry Hancock, Kathy Kelley, Andy McRoberts, and Jim Smith.

Convention Delegates Elected to Staggered Terms Delegates and alternates who will represent Saint Michael and All Angels at Diocesan Conventions over the next three years were elected to staggered tenures at the Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, February 22. It is the first time the delegates will serve multiple year terms. Elected to serve a one-year term expiring in February, 2016 are Delegates: Ralph Cousins, Bill Johnson, Phil Ritter. Alternates: Chuck Stewart, Liz Oliphant, Bill McGannon.

Elected to serve a two year term expiring in February, 2017 are Delegates: Marla Briggle, Cliff Miercort, Van Sheets. Alternates: Plack Carr, Robert Smith, Paul Talbot. Elected to serve a three year term expiring in Februaray, 2018 are Delegates: Robert Buchanan, Jr., Charles (Charlie) Sartain, Donell Wiggins. Alternates: James Wiley, James Kerr, Jr., Blake

Annual Parish Meeting Church Finances and Stewardship In Good Shape The church’s budget for 2015 is $5,217,000, which is 4.7% larger than last year. It is highlighted by increased spending in most ministry areas, a “small increase” in clergy and staff compensation, and a significant allocation of funds to address critical maintenance issues in our facilities.

In the words of our Treasurer Grady Schleier, “Our finances are sound and our cash reserves are adequate.” Our Stewardship chairs, Rosser and Mary Newton, said, “Our parish collectively pledged more than $5.2 million to support our ministries in 2015, which is the most pledged in the past ten years.”

The Saint Michael and All Angels Foundation reported that at the end of the year it had $3,528,369 in funds designed to specific purposes, and $2,098,455 in undesignated funds. During 2014 the Foundation made grants of $141,000 to Saint Michael’s Early Childhood Ministry, clergy housing, Music Ministry, Saint Michael’s Farmers Market, Cuba mission outreach, and the Saint Michael Preschool.

At the Annual Parish Meeting, the Newton’s reported that not since 2008 has parishioners pledging exceeded $5 million, and approximately 45% of our members made pledges, a 6% increase over last year. The Rector, Bob Dannals, commented, “This is a banner period in the life of our congregation – we have returned to and surpassed the level of giving of the top year 2008.” The Treasurer reported that the church “effectively achieved a breakeven” in 2014 with a deficit of just $4,493. Schleier said that the church directly spent $1.8 million last year on Outreach, but noted that more than $650,000 additionally goes to outreach projects from the Women of Saint Michael, and special offerings. The value of the time, talent, and treasure donated by parishioners “is priceless,” he said.

2015 Budget 2014

(In 000's) Budget

Actual Variance

2015 % of 2014 Budget Budget

$ 5,808

$ 5,655

$ 6,070

825

852

Revenue Available

4,983

4,830

(153)

5,218

Operating Expense

4,977

4,835

142

5,217

Operating Revenue Outreach

Net Surplus

(5)

$ (153) -

(11)

Vicars Thoughts Important Updates in Children and Youth Ministry I have always hated it when folks say that we need to take care of our children and youth because they are the future of the church. Don’t get me wrong, I understand what they are saying. The better way to say it is this: “The youth and children are our church.” They are not the future because they are the now of the church in the same way that every other member of every age is part of this community. We need to work to meet their needs now so that they know we will work to meet their needs in the future as well. For me, as a past youth minister and someone passionate about these ministries, the how do we care for our children and youth are critical to focus on. With that in mind, the Children and Family Ministry Staff and the Youth Staff have been hard at work on several big changes in the new year. Children and Family Ministry After looking at the many different programs that Children and Family Ministry oversee, we have discovered that some change is needed to improve our programs. First of all, we reviewed the Noah’s Ark Room, which was available to parents needing childcare during meetings at the church or while they volunteered. We had two full-time staff for this room. However, we discovered that an average of only 4-5 children a week, often for only an hour or two, used this program. We were paying for two staff with salaries and benefits to stay in a room that was often empty. After much discussion, we decided to end this program at the end of May and allow the Saint Michael Preschool to use the space to provide another classroom for its program, which has a waiting list of almost 60 children. We also discovered in this process that our Sunday School childcare workers and our afterhours childcare workers were vastly underpaid. In studying the pay standards for childcare in the Park Cities area, we found that we were underpaying by almost 70%. Thanks to your generosity in pledging this year, we were able to address this gap and invest in the needs of our families and children now. I want to publicly thank Emily Given and Ellen Talley for

their work and extra effort in these areas to improve the care for our children. Not everyone is willing to make changes, especially when it means that real estate and employees are involved. Their desire to serve our children was evident as they proved to be advocates for the best care possible for all of our children. Youth Ministry Andy Sahl’s departure as Director of Youth Ministry has caused some concern among our youth and parents. To clarify matters, earlier this year we made the difficult choice to move our Youth program in a new direction, and had offered Andy the opportunity to finish the school year with our youth and conclude his ministry in May. However, Andy decided to leave sooner, asking on a Wednesday to end his association with Saint Michael the following Sunday. We wish we had more time to say goodbye, but Andy’s ministry among us is to be celebrated, and we wish him well in his work and ministry ahead. Moving forward, we are working with Ministry Architects to evaluate our entire program. Ministry Architects is and has been a premiere consulting organization for over 15 years in youth ministry. They will come to Saint Michael March 28-30 to first evaluate our program from top to bottom. They will review our staffing plans and job descriptions, the overall organization and offerings of our youth department, the church’s support and investment in these areas, and the involvement of parents and families in youth ministry. In other words, they plan to look at every single person involved in Youth Ministry and help us understand what we are doing well and what we need to improve. I know several of the consultants and have worked with them in youth ministry. They are truly the best in the field and can help us build a vibrant and thriving youth ministry here at Saint Michael and All Angels. I invite your prayers for this process and your involvement as you are able. After we get a report from Ministry Architects, we will move forward to find a new Director of Youth Ministry. Again, the good people of Ministry Architects will help us in this process, make connections, and conduct a national search for the best possible Youth Minister for our program. Our continued on page 18

Parish Life - Shrove Tuesday Shrove Tuesday Menu Expanded

Shrove Tuesday this year expanded its menu to include Gumbo, as well as the traditional Pancakes, bacon, and sausage. It also included a new liturgy led by the children and youth; the Burying of the Alleluias. A live Jazz band entertained families old and young as they feasted before the beginning of Lent. Children colored Alleluia cards and banners, which were paraded around parish hall in traditional Mardi Gras style and buried as part of the liturgy.

Overview Saint Michael’s Farmers Market Gearing Up for a New Season Saturday, April 11 is not that far away, and that’s when the Saint Michael’s Farmers Market will open in the north parking lot for its fourth season.

Victor Valdez and his crew at Becerra’s Tex-Mex Tamales & Salsas, have been. experimenting with new salsa flavors. Look forward to possibly trying Strawberry-Jalapeno, Peach-Jalapeno, Thai Chile Salsa, and their very own TexMex BBQ Sauce when the market opens. If you are interested in joining Saint Michael’s Farmers Market team now is the time to do it. Contact Meg Carstens at meg.carstens@gmail.com. ..............

Saint Michael Foundation Urges Membership in the All Angels Society

The All Angels Society is made up of parishioners who have notified the church that they intend to include Saint Michael and All Angels in their estate planning.

Meg Carstens, the market’s new manager, says the season will have many new vendors as well as some that have been with the market from the beginning. “In November, we wrote some of our tried-and-true vendors and asked what they’re up to over the winter,” she said. Marla and Don Baugh, of Baugh Farms, report that they are increasing the size of their peach orchard. Charley Baugh and his wife, Marci, are expecting a baby in July, and are soon starting their own orchard.

Today there are more than 300 members in the society and the Foundation is urging more parishioners to consider making the commitment to the church. “It’s a way to ensure that a person’s or family’s love and support of Saint Michael will live in perpetuity,” said Robin Robinson, president of the foundation. Members of the All Angels Society will be honored at an appreciation reception at the home of Shirley and Bill McIntyre on April 16. If Saint Michael has been included in your estate plan, but the church has not been notified, contact Mary Kardell, Director of Giving, as mkardell@ saintmichael.org. ..............

Book Shop Has New Merchandise – Needs Help!

Come see the new “Threads of Hope” belts and clutches just arrived in the Saint Michael Book Shop. Each is one of a kind and handmade by women in Peru. The Book Shop desperately needs Sunday volunteers! One Sunday a month and you get a 20% discount. Computer skills are NOT necessary! Contact Chris Love at bookshop@saintmichael.org.

Bookshop hours: M,T,Thur. Fri. 10:00am-3:00pm Wed. 9:00am-3:00pm Sat: CLOSED Sun: 8:30am-12:30pm

Overview Acolyte Training Set for Two Saturdays in March

Become a member of the best Acolyte/Chalice Bearer team in the Episcopal Church. Training is scheduled for two Saturdays, March 7 and March 14 from 9:00 – 10:30 in the Church. Contact Tony Briggle at tonybriggle@sbcglobal. net. ..............

Men of Saint Michael BBQ Thursday, March 5, 6:00 p.m. Never been to a Men of Saint Michael event? Here’s your chance. On Thursday, March 5 from 6-8, the Men of Saint Michael will gather at the home of George Baldwin, 11711 St. Michaels Drive, to roast some meat, tell tall tales, and enjoy an evening with no agenda other than fellowship. We will have pulled pork BBQ, ribs and sides. Bring your beverage of choice, $5 a person, and enjoy the fun. Tell us your coming at www.saintmichael.org/BBQ. If you have questions, contact The Rev. Bill Murray, bmurrayu@ saintmichael.org.

Men of Saint Michael to Breakfast with the Rector March 27 At the Men of Saint Michael breakfast Friday, March 27 our Rector, Bob Dannals, will make a triumphant return to to talk about the church, God, and a favorite verse or two of the Bible. Join us for a fine morning of Rusty Taco breakfast tacos, coffee, fellowship, all for just $5. We meet at 7:00 in the Coke Activities Room. ..............

Dallas Farmers Market Manager to Brief Prime Timers March 5

Travis Morgan, manager for the downtown Dallas Farmers Market will update the Prime Timers Thursday, March 5 on the expansion and redevelopment plans for that vibrant part of our city. The program starts at 10:30 in the Coke Activities Room. Make reservations for the $10 lunch by Sunday, March 1 with Mary Davis at 214-363-7761.

PT Cruisers to take a Deep Sea Challenge on March 19 If you don’t swim, would you settle for a film of the same name that’s being shown at the Perot Museum? We will board the bus at 10:45 on Thursday, March 19 to go downtown to El Fenix for lunch and then to the Perot to view the James Cameron film, “Deep Sea Challenge.” Cost of lunch and the movie is $20.00. Deadline for reservations is Sunday, March 16. Call Mary Davis at 214-363-7761. ..............

Jubilee Park Grandmother-MotherDaughter Tea Set for March 7 Help is needed for the Jubilee Park Grandmother-MotherDaughter Tea on Saturday, March 7. Volunteers are needed to prepare food, set up and serve at the luncheon, and donate paper products and table decorations. An estimated 125 Jubilee Park residents are expect to attend the event from 12-Noon to 2:30. Here is what is needed: •

8-10 volunteers needed from 10:30 – 3:30 to set up tables and lunch, engage with residents, and tear down. Food Needs (deliver to the Saint Michael kitchen on March 6): • Cheese (cubed, sliced) and crackers • Veggie and dip trays • Fruit trays • Chicken salad/tuna salad ready-to-spread with wheat bread • Cookies, lemon bars, brownies Supply Needs (deliver to the Saint Michael kitchen on March 6): • 10 pink rectangle tablecloths from Family Dollar • 200 light pink paper luncheon napkins from Family Dollar • 150 light pink paper plates from Family Dollar • Decorations for tables and entrance • Any artificial garlands, flower pots, paper flowers To volunteer contact Drew Stull at jstull3141@aol.com.

Overview Parish Party Attracts More than 500 Parishioners

Saint Michael parishioners love their church and love a good party. They got a good dose of both at the bi-annual Parish Party on Friday, February 6. More than 500 Saint Michaelites turned out at the Brook Hollow Golf Club to have a great time and raise money for the Women of Saint Michael’s outreach projects. Live auction items included suites at basketball, hockey, and football games – including next year’s Cotton Bowl game, trips to exotic vacation spots, and a Saint Michael icon created by our Vicar, Bill Murray. The silent auction had parishioner created art, restaurant packages, sports memorabilia, and more. The evening concluded with a great dinner and dancing.

Overview

Overview Columbarium Gates and Banner for Altar Guild Directress Dedicated Parishioner Tom McConnell donated new gates for the Courtyard Columbarium and an elaborately designed banner for the Altar Guild Directresses in honor of his wife, Marianne who died in April, 2013. On a warm, sunny Sunday, February 8, the banner and gates were dedicated in ceremonies at Saint Michael and All Angels.

Kathleen Fischer Leads the “Marriage in the Real World” Class March 8 One of the area’s most sought-after teachers and lecturers, Kathleen Fischer, will lead the “Marriage in the Real World” Sunday Class on March 8. Ms. Fischer has spent more than 40 years teaching in public schools and on the university level, led professional educational seminars, and is in great demand as speaker and counselor. She will address the issue of “Keeping it Together” and focus on regaining balance in family living. The class meets at 10:00 a.m. in the ESD Library.

The banner honors Altar Guild Directresses beginning with Maxy Reeves who served in 1945 – 1946 through today, with space to accommodate the names of future directresses. Marianne McConnell served as Altar Guild Directress from 2003 – 2004. The banner is adorned with the Altar Guild Directress Cross created by James Avery and the Angels on the church’s reredos.

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Women of Saint Michael to Hear the Dean of St. John’s Cathedral in March

The Very Rev. Katherine Moorehead will be the speaker at the Women of Saint Michael’s luncheon Wednesday, March 25 at the Jubilee Park Community Center. The Rev. Moorehead is the author of several books and serves as Dean of St. John’s Cathedral in Jacksonville, Florida. She will talk about her direct approach to dealing with the pains, frailties, and fallibilities of the human condition.

The Columbarium gates complete the new Courtyard Columbarium, which we dedicated in November, 2013. They add enhanced privacy and a feeling of serenity to the facility, and are locked at nights and on days when the church is closed, increasing its security.

Women of Saint Michael President Whitney Grogan said having the luncheon at Jubiliee Park “gives the women the opportunity to see firsthand the miraculous transformation going on there. The women of the church have and continue to play a major role at Jubilee.” The luncheon starts at 11:30. Make reservations with Ashli at Ashlitappclements@gmail.com. ..............

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Overview St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange Open in New Highland Park Village Location The St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange has opened in its new temporary location in Highland Park Village. The store is located on the 2nd floor near the movie theater and just above the Diane von Furstenberg shop. ..............

Giving to the United Thank Offering Begins March 22

The Women of Saint Michael will sponsor the United Thank Offering Ingathering which begins later this month. The familiar blue and white boxes will be distributed to adults and children on Sunday, March 22, and be returned, filled with thank offerings, on April 19.

Distinguished Lecture Series Features Bishop of North Carolina Sunday, March 1

The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry will address “A Different Way of Being Christian” at the Distinguished Lecture Sunday, March 1 at 10:00 in Parish Hall. At 12:30, Bishop Curry will talk about “A Dangerous Dream of Hope” at a reservations-only lunch in the Coke Activities Room. Recently Bp. Curry was appointed Chairman of Episcopal Relief and Development, the church’s organization providing disaster and development assistance. Bishop Curry will also be the preacher at the 9:00 and 11:00 worship services in the Church.

The United Thank Offering, a ministry of the whole Episcopal Church, is a way of recognizing our daily blessings. Monies given are used to support mission and ministry both in the United States and in provinces of the Anglican Communion. UTO funds helped build the Episcopal Church in Tela, Honduras, where many Saint Michael missionaries have worshipped and worked. A UTO Grant to the Diocese of Honduras provided the Bishop a vehicle so he can visit congregations and clergy as the Diocese continues to move toward self-sufficiency. Please give thoughtfully and generously.

Significant dates for Saint Michael Preschool March 9-13, No School - Spring Break If you want to put these April dates in since they are early in the month, you are welcome to. April 2 – School being held as a make-up day April 3 – SMP closed for Good Friday April 6 – SMP closed for Easter Monday April 7 – SMP closed for unused make-up day

Caring and Sharing - Pastoral Care Alcoholics Anonymous. This group, open to both men and women, meets on the first and third Sunday evenings of each month at 7:30, in the Coke Activities Room. Contact: The Rev. Neal Hern, nealhern@aol.com. .............. The Care Giver Support Group meets in the Parlor at 11:00, on the first and third Mondays of each month. Look on the Saint Michael web site for an up-to-date listing of community resources, including such information as Care Giver’s Day Out and social programs open to Care Givers and a loved one, with early stages of dementia. Visit the church web site under Caring and Sharing, Pastoral Care, Pastoral Care Events, specify Care Givers. For more information, contact Sandra Klingeman, jsklingman@sbcglobal. net. .............. The Faith and Grief Luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, March 12, from 12:00 to 1:00, in the Coke Activities Room. Sharing one’s loss with others who are also suffering losses is especially comforting. Make your reservation for lunch by contacting Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org. Other questions? Contact Meg Badgett, mmbadgett@gmail.com.

The Prayer Ministry will meet on Thursday, March 19, at 6:00, in the Coke Activities Room. Lowell Duncan, Director of Communications, will be our speaker, and his subject is “Communicating With God.” All are invited to attend. If you desire, bring an appetizer or dessert to share with the group during our social time. For more information, contact Steve McKenney, ssmckenney111@gmail. com or contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org.

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Parish Nurse Ministry: Mark your calendar for Sunday, March 15, when the Parish Nurse Ministry will focus on Diabetes Awareness. A member of the Parish Nurse ministry will be in the South Lanai to take blood pressures and also distribute information and answer questions about Diabetes. Contact: Dianne Boyd, dboyd@saintmichael.org.

The Prayer Shawl Knitting Ministry. Instead of giving up something for Lent, consider learning a new skill that can be shared with those in need. Or, if you are knitter at home, you can help us meet our goal of knitting 2,000 shawl this year! The knitting ministry meets every Tuesday, 1:00 – 3:00 in the Coke Activities Room where we have Christian community, prayers, and knit together. Contact: Byrd Teague, byrd.teague@gmail. com.

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Women’s Cancer Support Group. This group meets weekly on Mondays at 1:45 in the Parlor to support each other and share helpful information. The Lenten season is an ideal time to reconnect with your support group. Contact: Sue Patton, pattons@ sbcglobal.net, or Charlie Stobaugh, Charlie@stobaugh.net.

A Stephen Minister Can Help You Over The Rough Spots. Do you have a burden that you cannot handle alone? Many of us want to change the way we are living our lives, to rid ourselves of emotional burdens, and begin living with purpose. We often choose Lent as the time to make those changes. Saint Michael offers a very dedicated group of men and women who are trained to walk with you, confidentially, on this journey. If you know someone who might benefit from having a Stephen Minister or you could use one yourself, please contact The Rev. Lisa Flores, lflores@ saintmichael.org.

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Centering Prayer Group. During Lent, resolve to form the habit of Centering prayer that will start each day off positively. We invite you to join us on Tuesdays at 10:00 in the Clergy Conference Room to learn how to be still and pray and get your mind centered on those things most important to you. Contact: Mary Ann Webster, maryannwebster@ gmail.com.

Basic Christian Yoga. Come try this healthy way to exercise your mind and body, led by licensed yoga instructor, Annette Lentz. Mark your calendar for every Monday evening at 5:30-6:45, in the Youth Space. Contact: Annette Lentz, annette. lentz@sbcglobal.net.

Caring and Sharing - Pastoral Care Flowers say: Someone Loves Me by Marillyn Burton Seeberger

loved as members of Saint Michael’s can truly “make their day.”

Do you remember the first time you received flowers from someone who loved you?

Friends in Christ volunteer, Kay Whalen says “Sharing the lovely flowers is a heart warming experience and privilege. One which is always received with a smile.”

I remember it was my father, who presented me with a corsage at age ten. I proudly wore it on my new spring ‘outfit’ and I felt so grown up! My mom and I wore our corsages with joy and pride when we went to church that Easter Day, because we were sure that our flowers showed we were valued; they showed we were loved!

Ruthie Garrett, LEV Leader, said, “Last year my grandchildren went with me to deliver the flowers. They met some of our elderly parishioners that they have heard me talk about and never met before. A year later, cookies still go back and forth between my LEV recipient and my grandchildren.”

Later, I remember my oldest brother, who lived far away, sending a bouquet to the family. “Happy Easter, I’m thinking about you, wishing I could be there…” More recently, flowers from my sweet husband: “because, I love you,” and from my children who wanted to make Easter special. My memories of Easter always include such occasions. Loving, warm memories! For most of us, Easter is a time for family get-togethers, reflection, and celebration of the redeeming love of Jesus Christ. The glorious Easter flowers that adorn our Altars represent the promise of new life. However, many of our homebound parishioners can no longer attend Easter services. Some are no longer surrounded by family or friends.

Parishioners, Karen and Bill Pardoe reported: “We loved taking the flowers to the Edgemere and the Plaza. We felt we were doing something meaningful and providing a needed service. We will volunteer again.” You can participate by volunteering to deliver flowers this Easter. Your family might consider making it a new Easter tradition. Or, you can make contributions to the flower fund that makes this ministry possible. If you and/or your family would like to participate in the Easter flower delivery, contact Katherine Bowen, Assistant for Pastoral Care, kbowen@ saintmichael.org.

Every year, Saint Michael and All Angels’ Pastoral Care Ministries take the Church’s Altar flowers and deliver them, personally, to the homebound in our church community. The flowers represent the love and recognition of our congregation for those who could not be with us. Being remembered and reminded that they are 5 15

Caring and Sharing - Mission and Outreach Una Bendición de Dios (A Blessing from God) In the spring of 2013, I was a newly widowed, burned out college professor looking for challenge, meaning, and purpose in my life. I had always wanted to go on a mission trip and there are many to choose from at Saint Michael’s. Still teaching at the University and longing for summer break, I read about a mission trip to Honduras coming up that summer. When I attended the first meeting for details, I met M’Lou and Bill Bancroft and was introduced to Honduras Threads, a group of women working in six embroidery co-ops in rural communities near the capital city of Tegucigalpa. I was amazed at the beauty of their brightly colored pillows and table runners, and soon my adventure began! Before I knew it, I was planning a curriculum to teach basic computer skills and cost accounting to the women in the sewing co-ops. In preparation for the trip, I read three books: Enrique’s Journey (Sonia Nazario, 2006), Toxic Charity (Robert D. Lupton, 2011), and When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty without Hurting the Poor … and Yourself (Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert, 2012). These books were instrumental in framing my perspective for the trip and enhanced my understanding of social, political, and economic conditions in Honduras. The amount I spent on the weeklong mission trip was more than most Hondurans earn in an entire year. Needless to say, I fell in love with the women of Honduras Threads! Even though I didn’t speak Spanish and we communicated through translators, I was welcomed and greeted with bright eyes and warm smiles, and I soon felt at ease. The women of Honduras Threads display a quiet strength, pride, and dignity. Above all, they love God and love their families. Honduras Threads has provided them with a means to earn money to buy school uniforms and books for their children, as well as contribute to daily needs of the family. The children now see their mothers as productive wage earners. One of the best things about our mission is that we are providing a “hand up” rather than a “hand out” to the women; by working and owning their own businesses, they are empowered. 16

I returned to Honduras in the summer of 2014, and taught two levels of computer skills to the women and their teenage children while others learned about sewing machine maintenance and sewing techniques. The women learned typing in MS Word, using Excel templates to keep records, and how to email documents to us. Now, some of the women are even posting on the Honduras Threads Facebook page. In this photo you can see the excitement and joy they felt after receiving certificates on “graduation” day. Since my retirement,

I am able to work with Honduras Threads here in the US. I am helping with the sale of beautiful hand-embroidered products in a variety of venues as well as fulfilling orders from Honduras Threads’ new online store. In addition, I’ve made many wonderful friendships with Honduras Threads volunteers, and I’ve decided to learn Spanish. Today, I find myself asking this question: Am I helping Honduras Threads or are they helping me? Please consider joining our 2015 mission trip June 28-July 3. We’ll be sharing information and details on Sunday, March 22 at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel Conference Room.

Women’s Retreat Women’s Retreat Was a Time of Reflection and Renewal On Friday afternoon, February 13, forty two women boarded a bus and struck out for Camp Allen in the piney woods of east Texas for a three day retreat. It turned out to be a time of renewal, bonding, and learning that “Love Heals” – which was the theme of the retreat. The Rev. Becca Stevens of Magdalene and Thistle Farms led the weekend’s activities which included workshops on healing, music led by youth minister Carolina Armstrong, worship, and time for discussion, reflection, and selfexamination. The Rev. Lisa Flores told the women, “At some point in our lives we all fall into these categories: we are someone’s daughter, we are somebody’s “mother,” even though we may never have given birth, we all have many “sisters” that have found their way into our lives, and friends who keep us going and remind us of who we really are.”

For Your Information Grant Them Eternal Rest May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace: Maureen Nayfa Dieb, February 1, mother of Leah Collins, mother-in-law of James Collins, grandmother of Aubrey and Ruby Wanda “Louise” Perfect, February 3, aunt-in-law of Don Baty James Smith, February 4, uncle of Katrina Randle Paula Rupe Dennard, February 6, mother of Caroline Dennard and David Dennard Frederick Arlick Skidmore, Jr., February 7, uncle of Margaret Cervin Ethel Barksdale Leary, February 7, sister of Ruth Mason, sister-in-law of Fred Mason Robert Foster “Bob” Wood, February 8, mother of Grant Wood, mother-in-law of Kay Wood, grandmother of Anne Marie, Ella, and Lyda Thessalonians Clark, February 17, aunt of Katrina Randle Virginia Greene Anthony Broughton, February 18, mother of Adele Broughton Valentina Ringland, February 22, mother of Autumn Collins, mother-in-law of Michael Collins, grandmother of Valentina Bond of Daniel Doyon Bond Thomas “Tom” Orr Mullins, February 25, father of Jack Mullins, Austin Mullins, and Staley Mullins

Births We welcome our newest parishioners who were recently born into our parish family: John Fenwick Stull January 19 Annie and John “Machir” Stull William Thomas Thedford February 3 Emily Thomas and Tommy Thedford

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Vicar’s Thoughts hope is to have someone in place as soon as possible, but we are willing to wait for the best possible person. We just pray that God will guide us all in this process for our youth and our church. I want to thank Carolina Armstrong. Her willingness to step up and minister to our students as the sole Youth Minister has been wonderful to watch. She is a skilled and loving leader whom the youth enjoy. She is excited about the prospect of getting new insight into how our programs can improve. Please keep her and all of our youth in your prayers during this transition. They are our church now – and we want to do all we can to care for them right now even as we plan to do more very soon. As always, if you have questions or concerns about these programs, please do not hesitate to call or email me or contact the incredible staff that we have leading these ministries. Thank God for their work, thank God for our children, youth and families, and thank God that we are called to be the church now, together.

FYI cont. from page 1 in Washington, disagreement about immigration policy, and a federal vs. states rights battle regarding marriage equality. Meanwhile, back at the ranch of Saint Michael and All Angels, we are living into the Lenten pilgrimage when we are called upon to imitate Christ, to stand in the gap and build bridges, and to see the way of the Cross to be the way of life. Stressed and preoccupied with our own daily complexities, we ask: how much time and energy do we give to making connections between the themes of Christ’s mission — the redemption of darkness in the world — and these awful events on the world stage? How much attention do we give to the issues right in front of us — poverty in Dallas, income inequalities, homelessness downtown, water shortages, domestic abuse, failing DISD schools, and teenage isolation? ... to name just a few. In the face of soldiers returning from Afghanistan with missing limbs or someone living with Lupus, what are my challenges? Compared to the child blinded by a mortar shell in Syria or the battered Dallas woman with broken ribs from domestic violence, what are my problems? As a forty-day season, Lent is just long enough for us to realize again that Jesus’ humanity meets up with ours, and causes us to experience how mercy works, how non-violence can be enacted, how reconciliation can function in a troubled world. Lent reminds us that Jesus’ pain and ultimate crucifixion, coupled with his victory over these offenses in resurrection, gives us a resolve to see the issues under our own skin and to recognize those same issues under the skin of others.

Lent makes it clear: our first priority is to be the church and to live out the justice and peace of Christ. As we do, we are compelled to reach out to others, and in so doing we will not only communicate the person and message of Christ, but in his name and motivated by his love we will work to change society. Christ called us to be merciful and compassionate. We are also to be peacemakers and to extend God’s reconciliation wherever and however we are able. After the shootings at Charlie Hebdo, the phrase “I am Charlie” spread quickly in the streets of Paris and on social media. When it came out that the dead included Muslim police officer Ahmed Merabet, “I am Ahmed” emerged as well. As we proclaim that Christ always stands with marginalized people, and goes to the Cross for the last, the least, and the lost, we find our voice, our mission and ministry, our very purpose when we are able to declare and live the baptismal question: “Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?” May we be found this Lent replying with renewed vigor: “I will, with God’s help.”

Bob Dannals

This year I’ve been ordained 35 years. When I left seminary most Christian leaders said that the primary mission of the church was and is saving souls and growing the church. There was a huge debate for several decades over whether or not social action and working for social justice was also an important part of the mission of the church. That debate has mostly been settled: almost everyone I know says that an important dimension of Christian growth is living out the gospel; that is, caring for the ills of society, both locally and beyond.

Archangel PERIODICAL

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www.saintmichael.org Phone: 214-363-5471 Fax: 214-363-4388 The Archangel Newsletter (USPS 015-033) is published monthly by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Archangel, Saint Michael and All Angels Church, P.O. Box 12385, Dallas,TX 75225-0385

Worship Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. Eucharist – BMC Wednesday 10:00 a.m. Healing Service – BMC Friday 6:00 p.m. Stations of the Cross - Church (During Lent only) Saturday 8:30 a.m. Eucharist – BMC 5:30 p.m. Candlelight Mass Sunday 7:30 a.m. Eucharist Rite I – SMC 9:00 a.m. Eucharist Rite II - Church 9:00 a.m. Discovery Mass – SMC Joy Mass - Parish Hall 10:00 a.m. Sunday School Classes (Children and Adult) 11:00 a.m. Eucharist Rite I – Church 11:11 a.m. The Celebration - Theater 5:30 p.m. Evening Prayer and Eucharist Rite I – SMC

Parish Clergy The Reverend Dr. Bob Dannals, Rector The Reverend Bill Murray, Vicar The Reverend Lisa Flores, Associate for Pastoral Care The Reverend Greg Pickens, Associate for Operations and Pastoral Care The Reverend Oliver Butler, Interim Associate The Reverend Ariail Gores, Deacon The Reverend Michael Harmuth, Sunday Associate, Chaplain Episcopal School of Dallas – lower school The Reverend Pamela Theodore, Sunday Associate The Reverend Neal Hern, Sunday Associate

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Parish Vestry Matt Waller, Sr. Warden Kathy Jenevein, Jr. Warden Grady Schleier, Treasurer Charlie Sartain, Chancellor Margaret Spellings, Clerk Peter Beck, Eric Conner, Mark Demler, John Gorman, Beth Hise, Kathy Jenevein, Kathy Kelley, Rachel Morgan, Sallie Plummer, Randy Rekerdres, Tom Rhodus, Grady Schleier, J.C. Snead, and Kay Whelan.