SM101:WelcometoSaintMichael! AnglicanFaithandPractice:The Via Media
in Prayer: A Sacrifice of Praise
SAINT MICHAEL 101
If you are new to Saint Michael, want to learn more about our mission and purpose, or are interested in becoming a member, please join us for this 12-part series that will introduce you to our vibrant ministries, provide an overview of the Episcopal Church, guide you through our worship practices and the Book of Common Prayer, and explore key themes of Anglican faith and practice. You will gain insights into our faith and learn how we put it into action through praying, learning, serving, and giving.
03 10 Understanding the Episcopal Church Growing in Learning: Building Christian Disciples The Book of Common Prayer
in Serving: A Legacy of Outreach and Care 17
7p.m. October 27
SAINT MICHAEL STAFF
Dr. Robert August
Rob Baber
Shannon Blake
Martha Hellman Bogdon
The Rev. Nate Bostian
Katherine Bowen
Dianne Boyd
The Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon
Melisa Bray
Justin Brooks
Carter Bruey
Robert Butler
BJ Clark
Susan Dixon
Haley Dettra
Sarah Fairweather
Bonita Frederick
The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata
The Rev. Dr. Andrew Grosso
Tammy Hale
Tom Hammond-Davies
Shelby Hendryx
Lynelle Hill
The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle
Meghan Houk
Angelia Hunter
Beth Igoe
The Rev. Bob Johnston
Cydni Joubert
Jordan Lawton
The Rev. Mary Lessmann
Bhavnita Masih
Morgan Milan
Caroline Moore
Samuel Moore
Colleen O’Hara
Marilu Ohl
Darla Osterhout
The Rev. Greg Pickens
Jenna Pitman
Edgar Porras
Marco Reyes
Elsa SanJuan
Catherine Seveney
Dr. Timothy M. Smith
The Rev. Canon René Somodevilla
Rob Springer-Kyle
Celise Stephenson
Samuel Sweet
Brian Turner
Meredith Turner
Tish Visinsky
Caroline Wilks
Associate Director of Music and Organist
Director of Finance
Executive Assistant to the Vice Rector
Director of Stewardship
Sunday Assistant
Assistant to Pastoral Care
Coordinator for Worship Media
Vice Rector
Operations Manager
Director of Contemporary Music
Graphic Designer I
Assistant Director of Facilities
Assistant to Operations / Receptionist
Revenue Processing Specialist
Director of Worship Ministries
Digital Marketing Manager
Receptionist
Rector
Senior Associate for Discipleship
Assistant to Worship & Liturgy
Director of Music
Director of Early Childhood Music
Assistant to Finance and Foundation
Associate for Mission & Outreach
Director of Children & Family Ministry
Accountant
Assistant to Formation
Associate for Contemporary Worship
Assistant Director of Children & Family Ministry
Assistant to Advancement
Associate for Spiritual Growth
Executive Assistant to the Rector
Assistant to Mission & Outreach
Director of Advancement
Director of Youth Ministry
Director of Operations
SeniorAccountant
Accountant
Associate for Pastoral Care
Graphic Designer II
Sexton
Sexton
Sexton
Assistant to Music
Director of Adult Formation
Sunday Assistant
Director of Engagement
Database Manager & Parish Records
Assistant Director of Music
Manager of Audio, Visual, & Lighting (AVL)
Director of Communications
Director of Parish Life
Advancement Manager
FULL-TIME CLERGY
The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata , Rector
The Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon , Vice Rector
The Rev. Dr. Andrew Grosso , Senior Associate for Discipleship
The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle , Associate for Mission & Outreach
The Rev. Greg Pickens , Associate for Pastoral Care
ASSISTING CLERGY
The Rev. Nate Bostian, Sunday Assistant
The Rev. Bob Johnston, Associate for Contemporary Worship
The Rev. Mary Lessmann, Associate for Spiritual Growth
The Rev. Canon René Somodevilla, Sunday Assistant
saintmichael.org/live
CHIEF DESIGNER
Jenna Pitman
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
Carter Bruey
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Ken Brannon
Chris Girata
Robin Hinkle
Bhavnita Masih
Meredith Turner
Tish Visinsky
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dee Ann Anigian
Judy Conner
Jolie Derr
Chris Girata
Carol Goglia
Sarah Hamlin
Martha Hellman Bogdon
Robin Hinkle
Avery Johnson
Kelly Reddell
Carol Roehrig
Meredith Turner
Harper Visinsky
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sylvia Elzafon
Sarah Fairweather PRINTER
Rector’s Bible Study
Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Beginning September 18
Paul, an energetic, first-century man, traveled from city to city throughout the Roman Empire talking about the One God and his “son” Jesus. He set up small communities of people who accepted what he said and then wrote them letters that are as explosive and fresh today as when they were first written. Paul's teachings on Jesus, God, the world, and the essence of being genuinely human were creative, compelling, and controversial. What did he think he was doing, and why was he doing it? How did his background and upbringing lead him to speak, travel, and write in this manner? Join our Rector Chris Girata in a year-long exploration of Paul through his epistles and the communities who heard them.
ex officio
The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, Rector
Kelly Reddell, Senior Warden
Becky Odlozil, Treasurer
Stuart Brown, Vestry Representative
Rob Baber, Director of Finance
COMMITTING TO DISCIPLESHIP
A Message from the Rector, the Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata
Iwish I was a patient person. The old proverb, “patience is a virtue,” pokes at me regularly. I’m certainly guilty of the common, human struggle to want things to happen quickly—to see results as soon as possible. Most of us are like that. We aren’t inherently patient. If we were, then we wouldn’t have to set patience as a virtue! The idea of being patient has been quite present to me as we have worked on the life of our parish over the last few years.
This fall, after nearly a decade of planning and hard work, we will see incredible changes in our shared church house. The scale of the work is unlike anything that has happened to Saint Michael since we built the church itself nearly 70 years ago. The campus we had wasn’t what we need for the future, and so we’ve pledged ourselves—our efforts, our gifts, and our faith—to building the space we need to continue to grow as the people of God.
Growth does not happen accidentally. As followers of Jesus, our growth happens because we make clear commitments. Those commitments flow together with the Holy Spirit to build us up. As a church family, we are given the opportunity to commit together. Although it’s possible to be a disciple of Jesus on our own, it’s not a good idea. Left to our own devices, we will almost certainly fall short.
Following Jesus is what we are all about, and doing whatever we can to help one another in our discipleship efforts is our sacred responsibility. To that end, we are moving into a new phase of life together where we will be asking more of each other. It takes confidence and courage to humble ourselves and admit we need one another. Many of us are called to show expertise in our daily lives, so anchoring ourselves in the truth that we need help can be challenging. Depending on one another and on the Spirit will give us the best shot at healthy growth.
Strong discipleship commitments are best made to one another and in ways that hold us accountable. We are all Christians, yes, but the way we live our Christian faith at Saint Michael is as unique as every other Christian community. Here at Saint Michael, we have identified four guiding pillars of healthy discipleship: pray, learn, serve, and give. Over the next few years, we will be in a transition period as our campus is transformed. While that happens, we can adopt new habits and transform ourselves spiritually as our campus is transformed physically.
We will be expanding our commitments one step at a time, and this fall, the first moment of commitment centers on giving. We know that giving gifts of treasure is central to the Christian life and critical to our discipleship, but sometimes we forget that its centrality goes all the way back to Jesus and the first discipleship communities.
In the gospels, Jesus speaks of money and possessions as frequently as he speaks of anything else. Jesus knows that money and possessions are far too important to us—that our human systems are built on the power and authority we attribute to money and possessions. Jesus does not shy away from pushing hard against these worldly assumptions, and his words are just as punchy today as they were in the first century.
Among the many things Jesus said about money and possessions, include clear statements such as, “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions (Luke 12:15),” and “Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much… You cannot serve God and wealth (Luke 16:10, 13).”
Over and over again, Jesus beats the drum of committing ourselves to the kingdom of God, not to the kingdoms of this world.
For me, the most important thing Jesus says about treasure comes in Matthew’s gospel when Jesus is delivering the Sermon on the Mount. As Jesus is speaking of the kingdom of heaven—what the kingdom is and how we can be part of the kingdom—Jesus says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:19–21).”
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
God knows us better than we know ourselves. We might like to think that we know who we are, what we want, and what motivates us. But the truth is, God knows us better than we can ever know ourselves. That truth is what makes Jesus’s statement about our treasure and our heart so powerful.
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Conventional wisdom says that we need to care first, and then once we care, we will act. Most of us think that if we care enough about a goal or about an initiative or about a mission statement, then we will give our time, talent, and treasure. However, Jesus flips that order on its head. God knows us, so Jesus knows us, and Jesus says that in order for us to care, we must give. In order for us to commit our hearts, we must first commit our treasure.
Commitment is going to be the big idea for this fall. Commitment is how our discipleship goes from being a hope to being an action. When we commit, we begin the journey of true transformation. As a community, we made the big commitment years ago to take the asset of our north land and commit the majority of that asset to transforming the world around us. We didn’t simply commit 10% of that asset to transformative work, or even double the commitment to 20%. Instead, we committed 85% of that significant asset to long-term kingdom-building work in our church, our city, and beyond.
This fall, I want you to make a personal commitment of your treasure that stretches you in a meaningful way. I want you to make a financial commitment that the world would judge as too much, as too risky, because you wish to commit yourself to God’s kingdom work. This fall, I want you to commit your treasure to a path of discipleship that will mold and form and challenge and transform your heart.
The work we do here at Saint Michael is the work of God’s kingdom. This year, as our physical life is transformed around us, commit your treasure to our shared mission and ministry so that we can continue to build the kingdom together. God wants you—all of you—and God knows that where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Over the next few years, we can adopt new habits and transform ourselves spiritually as our campus is transformed physically.
BREAKING GROUND FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER OF SAINT MICHAEL
By Meredith Turner, Director of Communications
“We are creating this space to bring people together in celebration so that we can support one another and then go out into the world and support those around us in our community.”
—
Mary and Matt Waller, Campaign Co-Chairs
On the morning of Sunday, May 19, following the 9 a.m. traditional service in the Church and JOY! A Children’s service in the Chapel, Saint Michael’s entire parish gathered on the front lawn of the campus on Douglas Avenue to make history. Surrounded by a sea of people, each person sporting a yellow construction hat, the leaders of Saint Mi-
chael’s unprecedented project officially broke ground on what will be the next chapter of our great legacy. As gold-colored shovels decorated with oversized red bows dug into the dirt, cheers and excitement echoed throughout the neighborhood. This dream was finally becoming a reality.
Parishioners were also invited to make their lasting mark that will forever be part of the building. As part of this historic groundbreaking ceremony, one of the beams that will be used in this construction project was available for all to sign.
In September of 2023, Saint Michael officially launched a capital campaign, Building our Future, focused on uniting the community, reinvigorating the campus, and investing in education. Saint Michael has raised an unprecedented $61 million toward its $65 million goal. This campaign will support the decades-long overdue revitalization and expansion of church facilities while preserving the beauty of the sacred spaces and creating new areas to gather in community and build God’s kingdom.
Hundreds of parishioners have already committed to supporting this effort, chaired by Mary and Matt Waller, alongside honorary Chairs Ann and Lee Hobson and a dedicated Campaign Executive Committee.
This project includes reconfiguring Saint Michael Episcopal School and Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church classrooms and constructing a new atrium, parish hall, music suite, café, indoor play area, staff offices, and community gathering spaces.
To date, construction is well underway as we finish out Phase 1, and Phase 2 will be complete in the summer of 2026.
Please visit saintmichael.org/BuildingOurFuture to learn more about the campaign.
“For nearly 80 years, Saint Michael has provided opportunities for spiritual growth through Christian formation, discipleship, worship, stewardship, and living Christ’s love. Each of us has benefited from those who came before us, and we have a responsibility to build upon the vibrant history we have inherited.”
– The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, Rector
UNVEILING OUR NEW SPACES
The Successful Completion of Phase 1 of Construction
By Kelly N. Reddell, Senior Warden Carol Goglia, Junior Warden
Dee Ann Anigian, Warden-At-Large
Our church is thrilled to announce and celebrate a milestone in the campus construction project!
The ambitious goals for Phase 1 of our construction project have been successfully achieved on time and on budget! Beginning in December of 2023, Phase 1 involved the imaginative redesign and renovation of the Saint Michael Episcopal School and the church’s 2nd floor Education Wing classrooms.
Saint Michael Episcopal School will be open and joyfully welcoming 331 children on September 11. This represents the largest enrollment to date! These children will begin their school year in brand new classrooms that have been configured differently and more efficiently than before. They will be introduced to the world of science in a state-of-the-art Science Room and create music in a dedicated Music Room. The church’s Cherub Choir will also use the Music Room to gather for their rehearsals.
The remodeled 2nd floor Education Wing will be home to new Children and Family Ministries’ classrooms outfitted for age-appropriate Godly Play and other curriculums. The Youth Center is a brighter, more effective space for Youth Formation, complete with a decked-out game room! There are many multi-pur-
pose spaces to serve Adult Formation and for social gathering. These spaces vary greatly, ranging from small meeting rooms that can fit as few as four people to larger meeting areas that can seat 125–175 people auditorium style. Some meeting rooms are equipped with technology for video conferencing, while other spaces, such as the new Coke Room, will comfortably seat more than 150 people and be fully equipped with the latest audio-visual technology. A new Parlor will comfortably welcome smaller gatherings.
These thoughtfully redesigned spaces completed in Phase 1 are an expression of our church community’s dedication to the learning and formation of all of us, from the youngest to the oldest, as disciples of Christ. This dream would not have become a reality without the construction team involved in Phase 1 who worked so hard to complete this phase on time. We would like to express our collective, sincerest gratitude.
The Feast Day of Saint Michael on Sunday, September 29 will be one of extraordinary celebration! The newly renovated education wing will be unveiled and open for all to visit! Come see and celebrate the amazing work which has resulted in the completion of Phase 1 of Building our Future! The best is yet to come!
TTRANSFORMATIVE GRANTS
All Angels Foundation Invests $65,000 in Community Healthcare and Spiritual Growth
By Katherine Blachly
he All Angels Foundation (AAF) recently awarded $65,000 in two grants to support significant initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare services and spiritual education within the community. These grants embody the foundation's steadfast commitment to transforming lives through acts of love.
“This spring, the AAF was in a position to provide new and unique support that aligns with our pillars, to two organizations very familiar to our Saint Michael community,” said Nita Clark, Vice President of Grants of the All Angels Foundation.
A $58,000 grant, in partnership with the Jerry and Emy Lou Baldridge Foundation, will support North Dallas Shared Ministries (NDSM). This funding will cover the base salary of a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) position, a critical role in NDSM's Medical Clinic. For 24 years, the clinic has been a beacon of hope for low-income, uninsured individuals who lack health literacy and access to affordable, culturally sensitive healthcare. The recent termination of the federal Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment program left this critical position in jeopardy, so the AAF grant will ensure that vital nursing services will continue.
"The grant to NDSM embodies our ‘Elevating Acts of Love' pillar,” noted Clark. "Our site visit to NDSM was a reminder that the All Angels Foundation can serve as a catalyst—alongside other critical Saint Michael resources like our volunteers who distribute school uniforms and supplies for the NDSM clothes closet, Saint Michael Mission and Outreach, and Women of Saint Michael—to meet a critical need of one of our longterm community partners.”
Meanwhile, the All Angels Foundation is also funding a request from St. Philip’s School and Community
Center to launch their first Godly Play program. The grant covers all training and materials needed to begin the curriculum this fall, reaching 100 students in the Early Childhood program. For 75 years, St. Philip’s has been rooted in faith and education, providing an environment where the love of God is both taught and experienced daily.
“We anticipate Godly Play will deeply enrich the lives of our students, strengthening and nurturing their spiritual development. St. Philip's is so grateful to the All Angels Foundation for its support of our efforts to build a foundation of faith, cultural pride, and purpose," said Ametria Maryland, Hunt Family Director of Early Childhood at St. Philip's School & Community Center.
The grant to St. Philip’s aligns with the All Angels Foundation's ‘Healing Acts of Love,’ which supports interfaith and youth dialogue, and creates scalable models to potentially reach more communities. Godly Play is a particular curriculum that equips children with the tools, knowledge, and language needed for spiritual dialogues and healing, and has the potential to be replicated in more venues in our community.
The All Angels Foundation’s spring grants reflect a commitment to uplifting and empowering communities. Through partnerships and dedicated efforts, they continue to ensure that vulnerable and underserved populations receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
To learn more about the All Angels Foundation grants, please visit AllAngelsFoundation.org.
PENTECOST SERVICES | May 19, 2024
Our Pentecost services were a momentous occasion! With a fire-breather, baptisms, and the historical groundbreaking ceremony of the Building Our Future Capital Campaign, it was a day we surely will not forget.
ADVENTURES AT NORTH DALLAS SHARED MINISTRIES
By Harper Visinsky
My adventures at North Dallas Shared Ministries (NDSM) all began four years ago when the youth group at Saint Michael brought us to the facility for Youth Mission Week. We were introduced to NDSM’s director, Judy Rorrie (who I now consider a great friend), and a group of exceptionally dedicated volunteers. From the moment I walked into NDSM, I could tell three things: 1) that it was a special place where everyone was welcomed, 2) that it was filled with amazing people who were committed to helping others, and 3) that if I were to continue volunteering with them, I would be able to have a tremendous impact on my community.
Within the NDSM facility, the volunteers are not only kind and welcoming, but they are steadfast in their task of serving as many individuals and families as they can, whether it be with food, financial assistance, or clothing. The first job I was given at NDSM was filing client folders and responding to financial aid requests (only now, looking back, do I realize how important a task this was). After many hours spent filing, inputting data in Salesforce, and typing on Excel spreadsheets, I was presented with the task of assisting with the coordination of the annual school uniform drive, which I am now helping run. By accepting this task, I was exposed to a new demographic of individuals and was given the opportunity to witness the intensive planning that goes into every facet of this remarkable nonprofit organization.
At the beginning of the summer, I was asked to volunteer in the food pantry to help develop a new system for recording client visits. I had never worked in the food pantry before and was excited to take on this challenge. On my first day volunteering in the pantry, I was blown away by the laughter shared between clients and volunteers. Every individual is greeted with a smile, and regardless of their financial situation is given food to sustain their families.
NDSM has forever changed my view of what volunteering is meant to be, and I cherish every minute that I spend helping the clients there. Not only has volunteering for North Dallas Shared Ministries shown me a new perspective of my community, but it has also helped me establish lasting friendships. NDSM introduced me to students from Saint Michael who attend other high schools. We all bonded over our shared love of helping our community, and I am extremely grateful to Saint Michael for grouping us together during mission week! By volunteering in the Food Pantry, Clothes Closet, and Financial Aid Office, I have witnessed firsthand the countless ways that NDSM makes a difference in the community. Whether it be by filling a bag for the food pantry or by setting regular volunteer dates, I strongly encourage anyone with time to spare to give NDSM the chance to change your life the way it has mine.
BECOMING A PILGRIM
By Carol Roehrig
"This is a pilgrimage, not a vacation,”
Mother Mary Lessmann said, emphasizing the importance of seeing ourselves as pilgrims. Holy places dominated our agenda, with a focus on learning about Celtic Christianity. “The purpose of a pilgrimage is to make life more meaningful. Through sacred travel we can forge a path toward God.” These preparatory words, quoted from the reflection journal Mary provided, advocate for a mindset of openness to one another and God.
For a week in May, I was among 26 Saint Michael parishioners joining Mary on an exploration of the earth-honoring Celtic culture and journey of Christianity in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Steve Eggers described the trip as “a pilgrimage of the five C’s: Celtic Christianity, Crosses, Churches, Cathedrals, and Cocktails.” Phil Ritter offered up a capsule of F’s, “Faith, Fellowship, Friendships, Fermentation, and Fitness.”
On Saturday, we celebrated a private morning prayer service in the sanctuary of Christ Church Cathedral, an 11th century building in the heart of Dublin. We circled before the altar which was adorned in green damask with cream and gold silk embroidered peace lilies and Christogram IHS. We approached this intimate space after walking between ornately carved dark mahogany choir seats, each with a Medieval flag and insignia helmet above. It felt like a cocoon, as we sensed the Holy Spirit wrapped us in care. The majesty and history of the site provided an interesting backdrop for the ancient words of our readings and prayers. George Diamond said this place was where he most felt the presence of God.
At Trinity College, we saw the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the four Gospels created by Irish or Scottish monks. These ancient texts, believed to date from the year 800 C.E., incorporated elaborate ornamentation
in letters and illustrations, along with Celtic knots and patterns. The historic Latin volumes live as part of a collection of rare books in the Old Library. Its Long Room, 213 feet in length, dates from 1712. Dark wood barrel ceilings, soaring 48 feet in height with floor to ceiling shelves filled with books, leather-bound and gold imprinted, reached by an ornate black iron spiral staircase, and rolling ladders. On the steps to this level a quote from Jorge Luis Borges stated, “I have always imagined that paradise will be a kind of library.”
Of course, our trip would not have been complete without a tour of the Guinness Storehouse. Arthur Guinness founded the Dublin brewery in 1759. Today it is an icon of the pub-and-pint culture known round the world. Named the St. James Gate Brewery, for its location in the center city, it became the wealth engine fueling the Guinness family and their contributions to restorations of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From the seventh floor Gravity Bar, we enjoyed panoramic views of Dublin and the lands beyond, along with a complimentary pint of this Irish staple.
On Sunday morning, Mary led us in an outdoor Celtic Eucharist. She stood behind a folding table altar amid rock ruins, in front of a large opening, once a window. Huddled together, in raincoats and hats, with layered clothing to stave off the chill, we stood under God’s roof, the man-made one long gone. Around us pillowy clouds clung to the tops of the mountains where bright spiky yellow blooms on common Gorse bushes painted the landscape. Mary raised the host high. His presence
framed by the natural vista imprinted a special holy memory. We prayed together:
“Lord, may we be wakeful at sunrise to begin a new day for you;
Cheerful at sunset for having done our work for you;
Thankful at moonrise and under sunshine for the beauty of your universe;
And may we add what little may be in us to add to your great world. Amen”
After, we took a two-hour walk into the Wicklow Woods, rich with moss-covered rocks, pine trees, and two lakes adjacent to Glendalough.
Eager to visit three monastic sites, we headed into the lush green knolls of Ireland, dotted with grazing sheep, plump in their wool dressing. Stacked rock walls created outlines, sometimes with hedgerow plants, which rolled up and over gentle hills. Everywhere, we saw green, bright green, with occasional pockets of bright pink blooming rhododendrons. Saint Kevin founded Glendalough in the sixth century. This monastic village
included a round tower, about one hundred feet high, which served as a beacon for pilgrims and a defense against invaders.
A tower appeared also at Clonmacnoise, a monastic site started by St. Ciaran in 544 C.E. along the Shannon River and Eskar Riata, which was a major trade route and center to teach and spread the Christian faith. We walked through the cathedral ruins, purple flowers spilling from fragments of interior walls as chirping baby birds nested in the nooks once used for wood bracing. The abandoned walls stand today as a remembrance of how prayers created the seeds for God’s word to flourish in this magnificent landscape. In 1979 Pope Paul II visited this location and said that the ruins were still “charged with a great mission.”
Glendalough, Clonmacnoise, and our final monastic site, Monasterboise, share a strong presence of high Celtic crosses, stone carvings of a cross with a nimbus or ring at the intersection are evidence of the confluence of the Celtic and Christian traditions. Carvings often place Jesus' arms outstretched and low, crucifix like, at the center, with mixtures of Christian scenes interspersed with indigenous reliefs. I stood in the Monasterboise cemetery, looked to the far field, and saw seven high crosses interspersed along the vista, each standing taller than the next, hovering over ancient graves. According to legend, St. Patrick drew a cross on top of a circular stone as a blessing and symbol of combining faiths. The cross represents Christianity, while the circle exemplifies Celtic eternity with no beginning and no end.
day Agreement ended the war. Political issues arose between Unionists and Nationalists, people who differed in their perspectives about whether Ireland remain a part of the United Kingdom or separate. Resentment about ongoing and perpetual Catholic discrimination entered the mix fueling religious hostilities on top of the political unrest.
Our education about everything St. Patrick began in Armagh. This community earned the title of ecclesiastical capital of Ireland, where the archbishops for both the Catholic Church and the Church of Ireland hold seats and host two St. Patrick cathedrals. We visited both and learned, “Episcopalians are thankful for the gift of St. Patrick; Catholics pray to St. Patrick.”
We enjoyed two evenings in Newcastle at the Irish Sea and adjacent to Northen Ireland’s tallest mountain Slieve Donard. A two-hour morning walk, led by women from the St. Patrick Center, took us along the beach and into the dunes to walk St. Patrick’s way to the ruins of Dundrum castle. An 89-mile path established in 2015, like the Camino de Santiago, follows St. Patrick’s walks through the countryside. Center Director Dr. Tim Campbell guided us through the museum which tells the story of the revered saint. St. Patrick, known for spreading Christianity and bringing the written word to Ireland in the 400’s, embraced the Celt chieftains and their honor for nature, community, and individual dignity, thus initiating what is known today as Celtic Christianity.
Crossing from Ireland to Northern Ireland, our cell phones pinged with notices of a new place. The currency changed from Euros to Pounds, and British flags flew amid the Irish Green, White, and Gold. We learned about “The Troubles,” the sectarian conflict that raged from 1960 until 1998 when the Good Fri-
On our last day we visited Saul Cathedral, which is considered the cradle of Irish Christianity. Once a barn, tradition says St. Patrick lived and worshiped here in his early days. Called a cathedral, this charming building made of rocks is smaller than our Saint Michael Chapel. A stained-glass window featuring St. Patrick takes center stage above the altar where regular services are held. We hiked a steep hill to Down Cathedral in
Stained glass portrait of Saint Patrick above altar of Saul Cathedral.
Downpatrick where the graves of St. Patrick, St. Brigid, and St. Columba rest beside the church. Our guide chuckled and said of the climb, “it takes a bit of puff.” This church built in 1183 C.E. and called the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity, started as a Benedictine abbey and in 1846 C.E. became part of the Church of Ireland.
Our concluding event brought us back to Down Cathedral for evening prayer, where we read from the Irish Book of Common Prayer and were led by a local priest. The quiet simplicity of the service, following a day of immersion in St. Patrick’s impact, touched us in a deep way. Jeff Harelson claimed his awareness of God most profound at “our evening prayer service.” Kathy Hayes and LaRee Stein echoed Jeff’s sentiment.
We journeyed to a holy place and became pilgrims. Our daily connection to nature, learning the ways of ancient monastic communities, and praying together brought God closer each day. The trip created special connections with one another, and we traveled easily together. Phil Ritter commented, “I was surprised at the many opportunities we had to grow together in learning, faith, and fellowship.” Mary was right. Our pilgrimage was far more than a vacation; it was a transformational experience of connection to each other and to God. This line from Celtic Evening Prayer sums it up perfectly:
“I thank you for the many blessings of this day (trip), for the people I have met and the good friends who have helped me on the way, for the special moments of joy which have made my heart glad, and for the opportunity to show your love to others.”
I hope always to be a pilgrim, growing ever closer to God, and will treasure the gifts of Ireland, its people and rich history for a long, long time.
Celtics, known for their blessings say, “Bail o Dhia ort” (Pronounced bal oh Yee-ah urt), or “The blessing of God on you.”
BECOME A BOOK BUDDY
By Avery Johnson, Jubilee Park & Community Center
You might remember growing up reading The Cat in the Hat, Where the Wild Things Are, The Velveteen Rabbit, and other classic books filled with imaginary characters and places. Maybe you’ve even passed on the tradition and love of reading to your kids or grandkids and noticed that, while books themselves are amazing, part of what makes reading aloud so magical is not the book itself, but the company you share it with.
This fall, Jubilee Park & Community Center is excited to offer a wonderful service opportunity for you to become a “Book Buddy” and share the magic of reading with children in grades K–5 at three Southeast Dallas sites: Jubilee Park & Community Center, Oran M. Roberts Elementary, and Mount Auburn Elementary.
In the early days of Jubilee Park’s founding through Saint Michael, Jeanie Laube, the woman behind Jeanie’s Place (the Early Head Start School partner at Jubilee Park), started a “Saturday School” program where high school students would read to younger children from Jubilee Park’s 62-block neighborhood. The reading and tutoring sessions began in two Habitat houses on site and later extended to the local elementary school, Oran M. Roberts. As the program flourished, it expanded to include parishioners from Saint Michael, who were eager to contribute to the community.
In talking with Jeanie about reviving a dedicated reading program at Jubilee Park, she explained the importance of this opportunity: “Reading is such an essential part of education. If you can't read, you can't do math; you can't do foreign languages; you can't do history...
All of our young people need to be able to read... Our volunteers are critical in helping raise the next generation of Americans.”
Karen Medina, Jubilee Park’s Director of Out of School Time Programs, is leading the program launch and shared that, "No matter what grade level or reading level our students are at, they will be getting that one-onone interaction and positive encouragement for reading through the Book Buddies program. We want to make sure we're cultivating a positive aspiration for reading— not just in school, but outside of it, too." Beyond practicing and improving reading skills, there is incredible value in children engaging with caring adults—research has shown that just one safe relationship can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
Now coming full circle, Jubilee Park is looking back to you, our neighbors, community members, and fellow changemakers, to bridge the achievement gap by helping our students foster a love for reading and learning through the revamped Book Buddy program. Through this opportunity, you’ll be creating lasting memories and inspiring a new generation of readers.
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A
Book Buddy?
To sign up, please contact the Mission & Outreach Team by emailing Robin Hinkle at rhinkle@saintmichael.org and Morgan Milan at mmilan@saintmichael.org.
The Book Buddies program is a minimum commitment of one semester, with opportunities for tutoring at each of Jubilee’s three afterschool sites (Jubilee Park & Community Center, Oran M. Roberts Elementary, and Mount Auburn Elementary). Volunteers will be paired with the same child for the entire semester to read for 30 minutes, one day per week, and designated slots will be set Monday through Thursday between 4:30 – 5 p.m. or 5 – 5:30 p.m.
Volunteers should plan for four hours of in-person orientation to be scheduled in early September with the Jubilee team, as well as a required background check and child safety training. The first day of Book Buddies will kick off on Monday, September 16!
Will you join us this fall and continue the legacy of magical moments and shared stories that began so many years ago for children in Jubilee Park? Become a Book Buddy and make a lasting difference in a child's life!
I PRAISE YOU, FOR I AM FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE; WONDERFUL ARE YOUR WORKS. MY SOUL KNOWS IT WELL.
– PSALM 139:14
YOU ARE A WOMAN OF SAINT MICHAEL!
By Judy Conner, WOSM President, and Sarah Hamlin, WOSM Communications Chair
Who exactly are the Women of Saint Michael? What do you have to do to join? It could not be any simpler: all women who are members of our parish are automatically members of the Women of Saint Michael (WOSM). Our purpose is to “be the extension of Christ’s Kingdom by uniting the women of the parish in a program of worship, study, service, and fellowship and leading them into the service for the Church in the parish, the community, the diocese, the nation, and the world.”
Since 1945, the WOSM have organized activities that included, in the early days, publishing cookbooks, planning home tours, producing musical performances, and holding Christmas bazaars. Today’s robust programming offers luncheon and evening speakers addressing a wide range of timely topics and representatives of nonprofit agencies speaking about their important work in the community. Our group also presents parish-wide programs, the Parish or Mardi Gras Party, annual Spring Luncheon, and numerous volunteer opportunities within the church and the Dallas community.
Perhaps the most well-known and anticipated activity hosted by the WOSM is the annual speaker series. This year the WOSM will host the luncheon series and other events while the Church is undergoing a major renovation. But what is a little dust for the stalwart women of Saint Michael?! The Parish Hall, which has hosted the luncheon speaker series for many years will be out of commission—as will much of the campus. The first speaker event will be held off-site, but starting in October, we will move the luncheon speaker series to the Youth Center on the second floor of the newly reno -
vated Education Building. This year’s lineup promises to be engaging and enlightening as we rejoice in God’s creation and express gratitude for the many gifts He has bestowed on us, including our intellect, the natural world, creativity, and compassion. The luncheon series will kick off on September 18 at the Center for Brain Health at 2200 West Mockingbird Lane. Dr. Sandra Chapman, the Chief Director, will discuss why women carry the burden and mantle for brain health. In October, Julie Eggers and Donna Letier of Gardenuity will talk about how developing closeness to nature can feed our spirituality. In January, SMU Law Professor Clay Small will discuss his passion for writing and his latest novel. Finally, at our annual Spring Luncheon, blogger and author Kay Willis Wyma will help us be more intentional about being kind and compassionate.
On February 21, the WOSM will host the bi-annual Mardi Gras Party at the Dallas Country Club, where we can all rejoice in being together and cherish our connection to Saint Michael. You can be assured that co-chairs Erin Osborne and Lauren Callon will throw a party with plenty of beads and bling!
Another enduring institution of the WOSM is the Saint Michael Woman’s Exchange, which began life in Highland Park Village in 1939 as a consignment shop called the “Woman’s Exchange.” Originally, the store served as a source of income for consignors, for whom jobs were scarce. Several years later, the Junior League of Dallas purchased the store to be a fundraising project. By 1958, the WOSM bought the store from The Junior League for $1,500 to create the St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange we all enjoy today. Our store has occupied
#5 Highland Park Village for over six decades and is an institution in the shopping center. The Exchange offers many wonderful items, including stationery, jewelry, household items, children’s gifts and clothing, and of course, the most beautiful gift wrapping, whether for something purchased at the Exchange or elsewhere. On the surface, the Exchange looks like other chic gift shops—but it isn’t. Our store is run by volunteers and is a real community effort—we invite you to get involved!
Every year, the WOSM Gifts Committee makes grants to nonprofit agencies with funds generated from sales at the Exchange and from fundraising activities, such as the Parish Party, and from generous individual donations. Since 1967, the WOSM have distributed over
WOMEN OF SAINT MICHAEL Rej cing in God’s Creati
$12 million to more than 200 different agencies, reviewing over 100 grant applications each year. WOSM grants focus on supporting crisis needs and addressing financial stability for those living in poverty in Dallas County and beyond. The Gifts Committee uses the criteria outlined in the book of Matthew. Last year alone, after a banner year at the Exchange, more than $700,000 was distributed to 73 organizations around the Dallas metroplex.
Additionally, St. Mary’s Guild falls under the umbrella of the WOSM and provides many wonderful volunteer opportunities. Members of St. Mary’s Guild provide home-baked goodies and staff the guild’s bake sale table, ordinarily on Sunday mornings from late August through May (though this year, due to construction, the schedule will be a little different), with proceeds going to local charities. Please consider offering your baking and/or selling skills to the St. Mary’s Guild!
Why Women Carry the Burden and Mantle for Brain Health Center for BrainHealth, 2200 Mockingbird Ln
11:45 AM
Dr. Sandra Chapman, Chief Director for BrainHealth at UTD and Dee Wyly, Distinguished Professor, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
Getting Dirty for Good: The Restorative Power of Growing Saint Michael Youth Center (2nd floor) 11:30 AM
Julie Eggers and Donna Letier, Co-founders of Gardenuity
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13
Christmas Shopping at the Exchange 5 Highland Park Village | 5 – 7 PM
Certainly, Saint Michael has grown and adapted to societal changes as necessary over the years, but one thing that has remained constant: the WOSM has remained an organization for women of all ages to find joy, fellowship, and engagement while working together to fulfill Saint Michael’s missions. Whether we are cooking in the Parish Kitchen, teaching Sunday School, VBS, or Confirmation, reviewing grants with the Gifts Committee, arranging flowers for Sunday services, or serving one of our outreach opportunities, our younger parishioners make connections to gain wisdom and experience from our older parishioners while our older generation develops new friendships and finds perhaps unexpected learning. In all cases, the WOSM provides an environment for rekindling, enhancing, or initiating rich, lasting friendships while fulfilling the gratifying work in which Saint Michael participates.
The world in which we live continues to be fraught with polarization and challenges. This year, as President of the WOSM, Judy Conner invites us to rejoice in God’s creation and appreciate the many gifts He has bestowed on us. Her focus on our intellectual gifts, nature, creativity and our ability to be compassionate offers an opportunity to deepen our relationship to God and to discover and flex the wondrous gifts that each of us have been given. Come as you are, and when you are able, to join the kind, conscientious, riotously funny, talented, and welcoming Women of Saint Michael!
CLERGY UPDATE
By
the Rev. Dr. Chris Girata, Rector and Kelly Reddell,
Senior Warden
Saint Michael has a wonderful sabbatical policy for our clergy, with the option to take time away after five or seven years of service, depending on the personal preference of each clergyperson. Sabbaticals allow us to invest in the future ministry of clergy at Saint Michael, allowing the clergyperson to have a dedicated special time for study, reflection, and refreshment. All members of our clergy are encouraged to take advantage of this special benefit.
We are very pleased to report that the Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon has received a sabbatical in thanksgiving for his first five years at Saint Michael and with the hopes of many more ahead. Ken will be away this fall from September 3 through November 4 and will be spending his sabbatical time in a variety of ways. Some of his time away will be spent traveling with Rachel alone, as well as time with the two of them and their two adult children. Ken will also spend time at Holy Cross Monastery in West Park, NY, a community Ken used to visit regularly when he served in the Diocese of New York. Please pray for Ken as he takes time away, that the time will be a renewal for his spirit!
While Ken is away, we will have the gift of wonderful coverage. In addition to our excellent clergy team, we’re also pleased to note that the Rev. Bob Johnston will be increasing his part-time work at Saint Michael after a reduction in time to focus on his legal practice. We are also excited to welcome the Rev. Cn. René Somodevilla back to regular, part-time work on the clergy team. René has gone through some difficult health struggles, but he is on the mend and healthy enough to rejoin our ministry efforts. We continue to give thanks for all the clergy who serve our church with such generosity, excellence, and faithfulness.
We invite you to visit and apply to Saint Michael Episcopal School. At SMES, we help develop and educate kind, inquisitive and confident learners ages 12 months through kindergarten. Our dedicated and compassionate teachers provide a nurturing, individualized, and inclusive early childhood experience based on our four pillars—Love, Faith, Education, and Service.
For more information or to apply and tour, please visit smesdallas.org/apply or contact the Director of Admission and Community Relations, Elizabeth Keogh, ekeogh@smesdallas.org
PARISH CALENDAR
SEPTEMBER 1 – NOVEMBER 3, 2024
CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRY
Meghan Houk, Director of CFM mhouk@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/cfm .
Children are offered a chance to get their feet wet with singing basics in this first level of the Saint Michael Chorister program. Children will hear Bible stories, participate in faith-based activities, learn to sing various songs, and engage in music and movementbased games. Participants will sing in Saint Michael worship services on certain Sunday mornings throughout the year.
SUNDAYS, RESUMES SEPTEMBER 22
NURSERY
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Children will play enriching games, sing spiritual songs, and hear an age-appropriate Bible story. Children can be picked up at any time. Check-in for nursery care using the app!
SUNDAYS, BEGINNING OCTOBER 6
FALL FORMATION CLASSES
10 – 10:50 a.m.
Register at saintmichael.org/cfm . While registration for most programs are open throughout the year, we encourage you to register early as space can be limited.
GODLY PLAY
PreK – 1st grade (Ages 3 – 7)
Godly Play is a Montessori-style curriculum that helps children create spiritual meaning through story, wonder, and play. Children will explore various stories of the Bible and the wonder about the mystery of God as they continue to build their faith. This class focuses on creating a calm and quiet environment for children who prefer to work independently.
HOLY MOLY
2nd – 3rd grade (Ages 7 – 10)
Children will begin to understand the arc of scripture through Bible stories, people, and places. Using storytelling, prayer, and other play-based activities, this class is sure to engage your youngster and help them grow in their faith. This class encourages an active and lively environment where children can choose from a variety of activities to participate in.
WHAT’S IN THE BIBLE? WITH BUCK DENVER
4th – 5th grade (Ages 9 – 12)
From the creator of Veggie Tales, Phil Vischer’s What’s in the Bible? is a two-year curriculum that looks at the entire Bible. Along the way, they will discover what is actually in each biblical book and what it all means. Participants can expect to think more about some of their biggest questions about the Bible and learn what they really do and don’t know about God’s Word. In this year’s class, students will journey from the beginning of the Bible through the stories of the kings and the Exile.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20 & 27
NATIVITY PAGEANT AUDITIONS
12:30 – 2 p.m.
Calling all 3rd–8th graders! Sign up to audition for this year’s Nativity pageant. Children ages 3–2nd grade will be able to sign up to participate in late November and will be assigned a role based on their age or grade. For questions, contact Shelby Hendryx, shendryx@saintmichael.org , or Cydni Joubert, cjoubert@saintmichael.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
FAMILY DAY AT THE FARMERS MARKET
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
West Parking Lot
All are invited to come dressed up in their favorite costumes (no scary costumes) and enjoy the offerings of local farmers, ranchers, and artisans. Be sure to stop by the decorated tents to pick up some yummy treats!
YOUTH
Samuel Moore, Director of Youth Ministries smoore@saintmichael.org
Beth Igoe, Assistant, bigoe@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/youth
SUNDAYS, BEGINNING OCTOBER 6
MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL FORMATION
10 – 10:50 a.m.
All youth 6th–12th grade are invited to join us each week as we gather together over donuts and Bible study as we discuss how God is moving in our lives.
WEDNESDAYS, BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 25
YOUTH GROUP
6:30 – 8 p.m.
We will share a meal, gather for a time of worship, play games, and talk about what it means to live out our faith in everyday ways, both in large group and grade specific settings. This is the place where students can learn, grow, and connect with their friends throughout the school year.
SUNDAYS, BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 22
CONFIRMATION
10 – 10:50 a.m.
Register at saintmichael.org/youthconfirmation
Eighth grade students are invited and encouraged to deepen their commitment to their faith in preparation for confirmation in the fall of 2025. The class focuses on the teachings and traditions of the Episcopal Church, as well as biblical literacy, and faith practices.
SEPTEMBER 13 – 14
CONFIRMATION RETREAT
Sky Ranch in Van, TX
Our 2024–25 8th graders are kicking off the confirmation year with a weekend-long retreat held at Sky Ranch! We invite our whole church to be in prayer for each of our 2025 confirmands as they take this monumental step in their faith.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30
HALLOWEEN PARTY
6:30 – 8 p.m.
It’s spooky season! Come in your best costume and bring a friend for a spook-tacular night of food and games!
JANUARY 17 – 20, 2025
YOUTH SKI TRIP
Winter Park, Colorado
The Saint Michael Youth are hitting the slopes in Winter Park over MLK weekend 2025, and all youth are invited to join us! Registration for the trip is now open! We have a limited number of spots for students on a first-come, first-serve basis. Register online to reserve your spot at saintmichael.org/youth
YOUNG ADULTS
Rob Springer-Kyle, Director of Engagement rspringer-kyle@saintmichael.org
YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY!
Your 20’s and 30’s are full of transitions, questions, and milestones. The Young Adult Ministry is a place to meet, connect, and build friendships as you grow in your relationship with God and other young adults. Check out formation, social, and serving opportunities by scanning the QR code or with questions, contact Rob Springer-Kyle .
ADULTS
Dr. Tim M. Smith, Director of Adult Formation tsmith@saintmichael.org
Beth Igoe, Assistant, bigoe@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/adults .
SUNDAYS, BEGINNING OCTOBER 6
ADULT FORMATION CLASSES
10 – 10:50 a.m.
30 Days to Understanding the Bible
October 6 – November 3
Led by Dr. Tim Smith
If you’ve ever mixed up the Ark of the Covenant with Noah’s Ark, or confused Jericho with Jeroboam, then join us for this four-week study where you will learn the overarching story of the Scripture and the Bible's key people and events, so that when you read the Bible you will get far more out of God's Word. The cost of the book is just $10. By finding just 15 minutes a day to read through the week’s lesson, you will experience a lifelong benefit.
The Gift of Salvation
October 6 – November 10
Led by the Rev. Dr. Andrew Grosso
What does it mean to be “saved”? Every time we say the Nicene Creed, we confess that Christ came “for us and for our salvation.” Similarly, our Eucharistic prayers indicate God appointed Jesus to be the “Savior and Redeemer of the world.” But do all Christians think about salvation in the same way? Can the way we understand salvation inform the way we live out our faith in daily life? This series will examine different ways Christians have sought to make sense of the experience of salvation, and will also identify some of the practical, day-to-day implications of various accounts of God’s gift of salvation.
Class For Parents
The Four Hats: Raising Extraordinarily Generous Kids
October 6 – November 24
Led by Clergy and Staff
Join us for this seven-part study that will equip parents to talk to their kids about what the Bible says about money by simply getting them comfortable and wearing four different financial hats. This will set them up for lifelong financial success and spiritual generosity.
Saint Michael 101 October 6 – December 22
Led by Clergy and Staff
See ad on the inside cover
If you are new to Saint Michael, want to learn more about our mission and purpose, or are interested in becoming a member, please join us for this 12-part series that will introduce you to our vibrant ministries, provide an overview of the Episcopal Church, guide you through our worship practices and the Book of Common Prayer, and explore key themes of Anglican faith and practice. You'll gain insights into our faith and learn how we put it into action through praying, learning, serving, and giving.
TUESDAYS, BEGINNING SEPT. 17
EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY
Led by Dr. Elizabeth Lang
10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 6:30 – 9 p.m.
Registration required $350 tuition, partial scholarships available
Education for Ministry is a program for adult Christian Education that combines the study of scriptures, Christian history, and theology with a focus on ordinary experience in order to discern God’s presence in one’s life. Our program comes from the Episcopal Seminary at Sewanee, which has become famous for educating adults to see God acting through their lives as well as developing knowledge of scripture and theology. For Questions or to enroll, contact Dr. Elizabeth Lang, 682-429-3360 or langelizabeth66@gmail.com
TUESDAYS, BEGINNING OCTOBER 1
BROWN BAG BIBLE STUDY
Led by Peggy Carr 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Brown Bag Bible Study is going to study Mark: Follow Me by James Hoover. Book available for purchase on Amazon. For questions or the Zoom link, please contact Peggy Carr at peggy.carr@sbcglobal.net.
TUESDAYS
GOSPEL OF JOHN BIBLE STUDY
Led by Dr. Tim Smith 1 – 2 p.m. or 6 – 7 p.m.
The Gospel of John offers a different chronology of Jesus’ ministry and a different literary format to communicate the Good News. This makes the reading and study of John’s Gospel unique, powerful and life-giving! This in-depth, verse-by-
verse study will focus on John 10 – 13. Particular attention will be given to the first century historical, geographical, literary, social, and religious context of each passage. These will provide new insights to reveal the original meaning and the intended transformational power of each passage, opening an entirely new world in understanding scripture! For more, email Tim Smith, tsmith@saintmichael.org
WEDNESDAYS, BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 4
IMAGING THE WORD LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY
Led by Karen Wiley 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Since the 4th century in the Christian era, congregations have been guided by the lectionary's imaginative and disciplined journey through the Bible. Using these readings, the liturgy, music, colors, movements, and celebrations of the church year, the Bible and the arts are brought together in a significant way. Imaging the Word is a resource providing visual arts, music, photography, prose, poetry, prayers, and commentary based on each Sunday's lectionary readings. For questions, contact Karen Wiley, kkwiley@sbcglobal.net
WEDNESDAYS, BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 18
RECTOR'S BIBLE STUDY: PAUL 10:30 a.m.
saintmichael.org/RBS
See ad on page 7
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2 & NOVEMBER 6
ENNEAGRAM ENCORE
Led by Mary Ann Webster 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Graduates of the Enneagram class will have the opportunity to come together to share their experiences of living into their unique way of being in the world with one another. Email Mary Ann Webster, maryannwebster@gmail.com, to register and include your enneagram number. Mary Ann will be available 30 minutes prior to the session if you want to share other thoughts around your enneagram knowledge.
WEDNESDAYS, OCTOBER 9 – NOVEMBER 5
LISTENING TO GOD: PRAYER
Led by Dr. Elizabeth Lang and Marianne Carter 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Pray with all your heart, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This course will provide opportunities to practice prayer as well as talk about them. Various experiences of
prayer—including a field trip to walk a labyrinth—will engage intellect and imagination, movement and silence, writing and speaking, feeling and thought. Both leaders have certificates in spiritual direction. Please bring a notebook so you can take notes and write journals during and between sessions.
THURSDAYS
COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY:
TALKING WITH GOD: A STUDY OF THE PSALMS
Led by Elizabeth Lang, Barbara Kennard, & Brady Millican 9:15 – 10:30 a.m.
We will explore a selection of Psalms drawn from the Old Testament. We will read each of these poems in its entirety, exploring the rich dialogue between Yahweh and his people, communicated through mostly anonymous literary figures from Israel’s history. Class members will find themselves drawn into deeper relationship with the God of Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, and Jesus. Come read with us! For more, contact Dr. Elizabeth Lang, langelizabeth66@gmail.com
THURSDAYS, SEPTEMBER 12 – OCTOBER 3
ISRAEL’S MISSION: BECOMING A KINGDOM OF PRIESTS
Led by Dr. Tim Smith 11 a.m.– Noon or 6 – 7 p.m.
We’ll take you back to the land of Abraham and Sarah, visit the deserts of Sinai where God first gave his people their unique calling in the world, and discover one of the world's most incredible ruins of the great Greco-Roman Decapolis city Gerasa. We’ll also look at what Jesus had to say about all of this for his followers. Though the time and place have changed, the question remains the same: how has God called his people to be in the world but not of it? What is our purpose? Join us as we rediscover Israel's mission to become a kingdom of priests and its implications for our lives today. To sign up, email Tim Smith, tsmith@saintmichael.org.
THIRD SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH WRITERS' RETREAT
Led by Cynthia C. Sample and Carol Roehrig
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Writing for publication, spiritual work, therapeutic journaling, or for fun can be enhanced by community. Our meetings begin with a short introduction, then a facilitator will offer a few writing prompts. After an hour, writers will have the opportunity to share their work and solicit comments. All skill levels and genres are welcome. For more, contact Carol Roehrig, 214- 437-3855, or Cynthia, cynthia@cynthiacsample.com.
MEN OF SAINT MICHAEL
24
MenwithPurpose SpeakerSeries with speaker Jim Keyes Park City Club
Wednesday | $30
7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
*breakfast will be served
17 FallCookout
NOV
21 HappyHour
Our fall study is “The Titus Ten” which is a guide for becoming the kind of man God intends you to be. Taking 10 qualities from the Apostle Paul's short letter to his mentee, Titus, this study will help you grow in your understanding of the gospel, your identity, character, doctrine, and more. You will be able process and discuss the lessons you learn and how God is growing you. Coffee and breakfast tacos are served. tsmith@saintmichael.org.
7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
This Bible study is based on the Lectionary readings for the coming Sunday. There are no attendance expectations other than to come when you can and as often as you are able. The group is led by lay members of the group and occasionally clergy. For questions, contact Phil Ritter, pjritter@mac.com.
THURSDAYS
MEN’S LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY
7 – 8 a.m. Zoom
This group meets to discuss the Lectionary's Scripture lessons for the current week, exploring ways in which the passages speak to everyday life and our own spiritual journey. You’ll be challenged and encouraged in your faith! For questions or the Zoom link, contact Bill McGannon, bill@mcgs.com, or David Cowling, davidcowling0100@gmail.com
FIRST AND THIRD SATURDAYS OF THE MONTH BROTHERHOOD OF SAINT ANDREW
Led by Kyle Moore
8:30 – 10 a.m.
The Brotherhood of Saint Andrew is a missionary and evangelism ministry of the Episcopal Church and Anglican Communion. The Brotherhood’s goal is to bring men and youth to Jesus Christ through the daily practice of prayer, Bible study, and service. All men at Saint Michael are encouraged to join our chapter. If you are interested in attending, email Barry Crossman, bcrossman2@earthlink.net, or call 214-357-4939.
WOMEN
FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH
WOMEN'S CURSILLO GROUP
Led by Maria D'Antoni
11 a.m. – Noon
All women who have completed a Cursillo weekend or have interest in doing so are welcome. These women strive to equip and inspire people to live out their faith. For more, contact Maria D'Antoni at maria@dantonipartners.com
THURSDAYS, SEPTEMBER 12 – MAY 8
BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP
9:15 – 10:30 a.m.
Register at bsfinternational.org
Bible Study Fellowship will study the book of Revelation. It depicts God’s ultimate victory over darkness and His promise of eternal glory. Revelation is the story of our redemption, the triumph of good over evil, and the fulfillment of all God’s promises. Join us in this small group to discover the source of unshakable hope in His Word! For questions, call Kimberly Colonnetta at 214-683-1259.
MONDAYS, STARTING OCTOBER 7
UNENDING CONVERSATION GROUP
Led by Linda Westerburg and Nancy West 9:30 – 11 a.m.
This class is filled with curious women seeking to learn more about their faith, emerging church ideas, and new ways of looking at Christianity and following Christ. Members of the group lead discussions of selected books and videos. For more information, please contact Linda Westerburg at lindawesterburg@gmail.com or Nancy West at nancyjw@me.com.
2ND AND 4TH TUESDAY, STARTING OCTOBER 8
WOMEN WORK WORD
6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
Looking for a women's evening group centered on growth through faith-focused books and discussion? Want to become part of a community that supports each other through the ups and downs of life? Come to WWW! For more information, contact Kathy Hayes, khayes@mail.smu.edu, or Diane McGrath, demcgrath16@gmail.com
WOMEN OF SAINT MICHAEL
Judy Conner, WOSM President saintmichael.org/women
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
WHY WOMEN CARRY THE BURDEN AND MANTLE FOR BRAIN HEALTH
With Dr. Sandra Chapman, Chief Director for BrainHealth at UTD and the Dee Wyly Distinguished Professor, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences
Noon
Center for BrainHealth, 2200 West Mockingbird Lane
We are fearfully and wonderfully made indeed, especially our intellect and capacity to learn and reason. Come learn from Dr. Chapman what neurologists have discovered about maximizing our mental acuity.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
GETTING DIRTY FOR GOOD: THE RESTORATIVE POWER OF GROWING
With Julie Eggers and Donna Letier, co-founders of Gardenuity 11:30 a.m.
Join Julie and Donna, cradle Episcopalians, cultivators of faith, and nationally recognized entrepreneurs, to learn how gardening and being close to the earth can feed our spiritual well-being and growth. Green thumbs optional!
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT THE EXCHANGE
5 – 7 p.m.
St. Michael's Woman's Exchange, 5 Highland Park Village
SUNDAYS, SEPT. 29, OCT. 27, & NOV. 3
ST. MARY'S GUILD BAKING DATES
Due to construction, St. Mary’s Guild will only be offering their delicious savory and sweets on certain dates. We will be located outside near the circle drive by the South Entrance between the Church and the Chapel and would love for you to stop by! Sale proceeds are given to local charities. We have excellent bakers and are looking for more to join us! If you enjoy baking and volunteering, please contact Bitsy Hudnall at bitsy_hudnall@yahoo.com to get involved!
September 29 – Feast of Saint Michael Reception
October 27 – Halloween
November 3 – All Saints Day Reception
ADULTS
Tela, Honduras – February 2025
Provide uoride treatments for children and reading glasses for adults in local villages while engaging over 450 students in Christian Education.
Amistad Bolivia – August 2025
Adults spend a week in fellowship with children who have been abused, abandoned, or orphaned and are given the opportunity to grow to independent adulthood through the Amistad Christian Community.
YOUTH
Youth Mission Week – June 2025
Serve as a camp counselor at a week-long summer camp for under-resourced students in the Bachman Lake area.
Borderland Ministries – June 2025
Travel to Marfa, Texas, to welcome and serve asylum-seeking families and migrants as they enter a humanitarian support shelter.
Amistad Bolivia – July 2025
Youth spend a week in fellowship with children who have been abused, abandoned, or orphaned and are given the opportunity to grow to independent adulthood through the Amistad Christian Community.
MISSION & OUTREACH
The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle, Associate for M&O rhink le@saintmichael.org
Morgan Milan, Assistant to M&O, mmilan@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/outreach
SUNDAYS, SEPTEMBER 8, 15, 22, & 29
8:30 a.m. – 12: 15 p.m.
CALLED TO SERVE: SHARING OUR GIFTS
Saint Michael has longstanding ministry partners who excel in their work in Dallas and around the world. Visit our table in the Narthex of the Church to explore service opportunities and share His love with those in need. By committing to serve, you will deepen your discipleship with God.
SAINT MICHAEL FOOD BANK SUPER TEAM
The Saint Michael Food Bank Super Team visits one food bank each week of the month. We invite you to join this team to make a big difference in the lives of those in need.
Join Jubilee Park as a tutor for their brandnew reading support program, Book Buddies, focused on providing additional reading instruction to students. Volunteers will spend 30 minutes once a week reading with their Book Buddy until Christmas break. Learn more about the Book Buddies program and sign up online.
BEGINNING MONDAY, SEPT. 16
CALL FOR TUTORS AT FOSTER
ELEMENTARY
Foster Elementary School, 700 Clover Lane
As a tutor, you will support students in foundational education skills—particularly reading. The ability to speak
Spanish is not required, but dual language tutors are needed. Scheduling is flexible throughout the school day; however, we would like volunteers to commit to a time slot one day a week as you will be assigned specific students.
FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH
THE BRIDGE MINISTRY: MEN’S BIBLE STUDY WITH THE HOMELESS
1 p.m.
The Bridge, 1818 Corsicana
A faithful group of men from Saint Michael host a Bible Study at The Bridge for men who are struggling with homelessness. We provide coffee, donuts, and social support, while the class is taught by a local pastor. Please contact Robin Hinkle for more information.
AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Prepare and serve food for residents experiencing homelessness.
Cooking: September 3 & October 1 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 8200 Devonshire Dr.
Serving:
September 4 & October 2
5 – 7 p.m.
Austin Street Center
OCTOBER 1 – 18
SMES & SMAA ST. PHILIP’S COAT DRIVE
Please help us keep our neighbors warm during the cold winter months! Saint Michael Episcopal School and the church are collecting new coats and jackets in all sizes. There will be collection bins at the main entrances to the school and in the narthex of the Church and the Chapel. Coats will be given to community members through the St. Philip’s Christmas Store in December.
OCTOBER 15 – NOVEMBER 10
VETERANS DAY CLOTHING COLLECTION
Sponsored by the Men of Saint Michael
Many men and women who have served in the United States armed forces have struggled to make ends meet after their active duty. Support those we honor and respect by bringing your donations to the church and placing them in collection boxes. Please donate new adult-sized t-shirts, knit winter caps, scarves, gloves, hand warmers, and, tube socks. For questions, contact David Cowling, davidcowling0100@ gmail.com, or Don McCoy, dmccoy@dgm247.com
MUSIC
Tom Hammond-Davies, Director of Music thammond-davies@saintmichael.org
Justin Brooks, Director of Contemporary Music jbrooks@saintmichael.org
Dr. Robert August, Associate Director of Music and Organist raugust@saintmichael.org
Sammy Sweet, Assistant Director of Music ssweet@saintmichael.org
Shelby Hendryx, Director of Early Childhood Music shendryx@saintmichael.org
Catherine Seveney, Assistant to Music cseveney@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/music
JOIN ONE OF OUR CHOIRS!
Fall is the perfect time to join one of the Saint Michael choirs! We offer groups for all ages: Cherub choir (pre-K–2nd grade), Choristers (3rd grade–high school), and Saint Michael Choir (adults). Contact Catherine Seveney for more information.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
THE COMPLINE CHOIR
7 p.m. | Church | See ad on page 50 saintmichael.org/compline
The Compline Choir is excited to offer their service, Pillars of Faith. In this meditative service, our community will root themselves to the pillars of our church’s teachings of pray, learn, serve, and give with the mirrored musical offerings of hope, faith, life, and love. The Compline Choir will weave a gorgeous mosaic of our faith’s foundations through a musical journey from the English Renaissance to New Age "Americana." This service invites us to reflect on these pillars as we embark on laying our own new foundations during this season of physical change. Join us for an evening of reflection!
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27
SAINT MICHAEL PRESENTS: CANTUS
7 p.m. | Church | See ad on page 3
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3
ALL SOULS EVENSONG
4 p.m. | Church, incense will be used at this service
See the ad on page 57
WORSHIP & LITURGY
Haley Dettra, Director of Worship Ministries hdettra@saintmichael.org
Dianne Boyd, Coordinator for Worship Media dboyd@saintmichael.org
Tammy Hale, Assistant to Worship & Liturgy thale@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/worship
SUNDAYS, SEPTEMBER 8, 15, 22, & 29 PRE-MARITAL CLASSES
10 a.m.
This is a required gathering for those seeking marriage at Saint Michael. This series prepares couples for a faith-filled and loving life together. Contact Tammy Hale to register or to go over the details of scheduling a wedding.
SUNDAYS, SEPTEMBER 15 & 22 BAPTISM PREPARATION
10:15 a.m.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
THE FEAST OF SAINT MICHAEL
7:30 a.m. Traditional Worship, Rite I, Chapel
9 a.m. Traditional Worship, Rite II, Church
9 a.m. JOY! A Children's Service, Chapel
10 a.m. Open House and Reception in new Education Wing and Saint Michael Episcopal School
11 a.m. Contemporary Worship, Rite II, Church
11 a.m. Traditional Worship, Rite I, Chapel (incense will be used at this service)
5:30 p.m. Traditional Worship, Rite II, Chapel
Join us for our annual celebration of Saint Michael, our patronal saint. Festivities will include special music offerings at worship services and an Open House with unveiling of our new Education Wing.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
4 p.m.
West Parking Lot
See ad on page 63
Our clergy will be blessing all pets great and small at this free event celebrating the Feast of St. Francis! A short liturgy will be led by the clergy followed by individual pet blessings. Each pet will receive a lovely St. Francis medallion for their collar. Refreshments for pets and their humans will be served.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3
ALL SAINTS SUNDAY
7:30 a.m. Traditional Worship, Rite I, Chapel
9 a.m. Traditional Worship, Rite II, Church
9 a.m. JOY! A Children's Service, Chapel
11 a.m. Contemporary Worship, Rite II, Church 11 a.m. Traditional Worship, Rite I, Chapel* (incense will be used at this service)
5:30 p.m. Traditional Worship, Rite II, Chapel
On this Principal Feast of the church year, we commemorate all saints, both known and unknown. Join us for festive liturgies featuring special music and more as we celebrate the great saints of the church.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10
VETERANS DAY SERVICE
With guest preacher Bishop Ann Ritonia
5:30 p.m.
Church
saintmichael.org/veterans
See ad on page 6
Join us for our annual Veterans Day Service as we honor our veterans with a worship service in the Church. This year’s guest preacher is Bishop Ann Ritonia, Bishop Suffragan of the Armed Forces and Federal Ministries. Bishop Ritonia served in the U.S. Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve for 17 years in addition to serving in parish ministry for over a decade.
We will have reserved seating at the front of the church for participating veterans. The organists will play the military medley and the branch flags will process up the aisle toward the end of the service. All veterans are invited to fall in line behind their branch’s flag and join us at the altar for our annual group photo.
PASTORAL
CARE
The Rev. Greg Pickens, Associate for Pastoral Care gpickens@saintmichael.org
Katherine Bowen, Assistant to Pastoral Care kbowen@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/pastoralcare
ANGEL FOOD COOKS
This is a great opportunity to provide a delicious meal to parishioners in need due to a recent hospitalization, ongoing illness, or the birth of a child. For questions, contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org , or Gay Rekerdres, gayrek@sbcglobal.net
CARD MINISTRY
Share the love of Christ by sending sympathy cards to those grieving, birthday and holiday cards to the homebound, and greeting cards to families welcoming new babies. For questions, contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org
FRIENDS IN CHRIST
The Friends in Christ Ministry re-establishes ties with parishioners who are unable to attend church but wish to stay in touch with the life of our parish. This team of volunteers visits these parishioners, offering friendship and fellowship. For questions, contact Greg Pickens, gpickens@saintmichael.org
INTERCESSORY PRAYER MINISTRY (DAILY)
Saint Michael receives prayer requests on a daily basis through the Pastoral Care Ministries office or from online submissions. Intercessors pray for these requests each day and keep them in strict confidence. For questions, contact Terry Demler, tsdemler@gmail.com
LAY EUCHARISTIC VISITORS
Teams of trained parishioners take the bread and wine directly from the church altar to parishioners in hospitals, in assisted living facilities, and at home who are unable to attend church. For questions, contact Charlie Smith, jsmithcpa@earthlink.net
RECOVERY ADVOCATES
Recovery Advocates provide for the spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being of those who experience substance abuse or other addictions. For questions, contact Greg Pickens, gpickens@saintmichael.org .
SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
With Dr. Elizabeth Lang
Spiritual direction provides guidance and companionship for one who is on a journey seeking to deepen their faith. It is a way to receive God’s love and to enhance awareness of one’s relationship with God. For one-on-one Spiritual direction, contact Dr. Elizabeth Lang, langelizabeth66@gmail.com
STEPHEN MINISTRY
stephenministries.org
Stephen Ministry is a program that equips lay persons to provide Christian one-on-one care, confidentially, to anyone in our community who is experiencing challenging life circumstances. For questions, please contact Greg Pickens, gpickens@saintmichael.org , or Mary Kardell, mary.kardell@sbcglobal.net.
TOUCH BASE PHONE MINISTRY
Touch Base Phone Ministry is a group of volunteers who represent Saint Michael and make phone calls to check on those in our parish who have experienced a recent death. For questions, contact Liz Wheelan, LizWico@aol.com .
EVERY MONDAY CARE GIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Led by Gayl Braymer 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caregiving a loved one can be isolating and overwhelming. Our group provides confidential, loving support to those involved in caregiving. We seek to give emotional support and resource suggestions to those in need. Contact Gayl Braymer, gaylbraymer@gmail.com, to enroll or with questions.
SATURDAYS, SEPTEMBER 7 – 28
GRACEFUL HEALING: NAVIGATING GRIEF WITH HOPE
Led by the Rev. Greg Pickens 9:30 – 11 a.m.
Register by Friday, September 6
Loss touches all of us in different ways, but you do not have to walk this journey alone. Graceful Healing is a grief gathering for those who are experiencing a loss of any kind. Through a combination of scriptural reflection, personal experiences, and meaningful discussion, we will build an encouraging and uplifting community together and explore how faith offers us hope in the most difficult of times. Contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org , to RSVP or with any questions.
FIRST TUESDAY, BEGINNING OCTOBER 1
PRAYER SHAWL KNITTING MINISTRY
Led by Peggy Carr
1 – 3 p.m.
Over 2,904 have been knitted and distributed by the Saint Michael Prayer Shawl Knitting Ministry, extending love to those who are hurting or ill. Each of these shawls has a label that identifies it as being knit with love at Saint Michael and a healing prayer is added. Each shawl is blessed by the clergy and the entire congregation. Join us for camaraderie, prayers, and the joy of knitting a message of love. During the week, prayer shawls are available in the Pastoral Care Office, 8100 Lomo Alto, Suite 235. Please contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org , to arrange a time to pick up a prayer shawl. During weekend reception hours at the Saint Michael South Entrance (Saturday 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or Sunday 7 a.m.–12:30 p.m.), prayer shawls may be picked up from Bonita Frederick. For questions, contact Peggy Carr, peggy.carr@sbcglobal.net.
WEDNESDAYS, OCTOBER 2 – NOVEMBER 20 GRIEF WORKSHOP: COMFORT AND HOPE FOR THE JOURNEY OF GRIEF
Led by Faith and Grief Ministries 6 – 8 p.m.
Register by Tuesday, October 1 faithandgrief.org/griefworkshop
Participate in this supportive community where we learn coping skills and practice spiritual exercises that bring comfort. Registration is required. Contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org ,with questions.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 ORGANIZING FOR HEAVEN
Led by the Rev. Greg Pickens 10 – 10:50 a.m.
Register by Friday, October 11
We spend significant time making arrangements for our education, weddings, children, and our retirement. However, sometimes we neglect to attend to the details of the of our lives. This gathering will answer questions about how to request a funeral at our parish, the guidelines for a Saint Michael funeral, and how to purchase a niche in our Columbarium. For questions, please contact Katherine Bowen, kbowen@saintmichael.org ,.
WELCOME & ENGAGEMENT
Rob Springer-Kyle, Director of Engagement rspringer-kyle@saintmichael.org
For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how construction on our campus may impact these o erings, please visit saintmichael.org/engagement
GOOD SHEPHERD MINISTRY
The purpose of the Good Shepherd Ministry is to build a sense of community within the larger geographical area of our congregation. Good Shepherd volunteers serve as liaisons between Saint Michael and other parishioners in their community in times of need or celebration and reach out to new parishioners with a warm welcome. If you are interested in learning more about the Good Shepherd Ministry, please contact Shannon Callewart, scallewart@tx.rr.com, or Anne Leary, anneleary@sbcglobal.net.
WELCOME-GREETER MINISTRY
The Welcome-Greeter Ministry (WGM) is a simple, fun, low time commitment opportunity to begin serving on Sundays. The goal of the WGM is to welcome, inform, and help connect parishioners, guests, and visitors on Sundays with different ministries and opportunities to pray, learn, serve, and give. This ministry is a great way to build stronger relationships, encourage and bless others, and meet new people. The WGM has two core Sunday serving opportunities. Greeter Volunteers and Welcome Liaison Volunteers.
A Greeter Volunteer is often the first person a parishioner, visitor, or guest encounter upon entering the doors of Saint Michael. It is important for that first experience to be encouraging, welcoming, and helpful. Greeters are particularly helpful in guiding people unfamiliar with our campus, to different destinations such as worship services, formation classes, restrooms, or childcare.
A Welcome Liaison Volunteer is intentionally looking for and connecting with people that are new to them, guests, or people they may have not seen in a while. Welcome Liaisons not only welcome people but also take a little more time to talk with new people and get to know more about them.
For any questions or to sign up as a volunteer, please contact Rob Springer-Kyle , 214-692-3008.
VARIED GRACE
By the Rev. Robin Hinkle Associate for Mission & Outreach
CAbove all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
–1 Peter 4:8–11
onstruction has begun and there is so much excitement at our church about what the future will hold. Have you ever deeply thought about what a gift it is that we have such amazing options for our future, both individually and as a church? We can decide what work we want to do and on what we would rather take a pass on. As I have been thinking about our work together, the phrase “God’s varied grace” has really touched my heart as I consider how we are blessed with a massive span of gifts in our congregation. We are like the glass of a kaleidoscope with the potential to form an infinite variety of light and color.
God has in fact graced every single person he created with varied gifts. We all have particular things about us that uniquely qualify us to accomplish God’s work in the world. I am therefore wondering this season about how we can discern for ourselves, and help others discern as well, how we can use our gifts in the world. In particular, I believe that we are being called to mentor one another within our church and in our communities of service, to help one another see our/their giftedness and to help one another to achieve our potential.
I am therefore entering into a time of discernment and planning as to ways we can serve beyond simply providing for basic needs. We are exploring additional ways we can help our neighbors discern and achieve their poten-
tial. For instance, we are looking at how we could help youth and their families navigate the FAFSA forms, so the youth can receive financial aid for community college, tech school or university, funds they absolutely qualify for based upon their circumstances. We are looking at more and better ways to tutor and mentor kindergarten through high school students so that they can achieve the full necessary education needed to become financially independent adults. We are considering programs where we can help neighbors file their income taxes so that they can receive their refund for free, instead of having to pay a huge percentage using other means. And we are exploring new opportunities to aid the poorest and neediest of our world, homeless men and women who are plagued with severe mental illness or are in need of end-of-life hospice care.
As we build our grounds for our new church home, we will therefore also be building upon the foundation of our work in outreach. We invite you to commit this year to explore the many service opportunities we will have this fall and spring. Specifically, we ask everyone to commit to serve in at least one. Additionally, come join us in conversation as we consider how we can build up our neighbors and neighborhoods, so that like our church, they too will become even brighter spots of new potential. I look forward to hearing your ideas!
2025 CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES SEPTEMBER 29!
BECAUSE YOU GIVE, WE GROW
By Martha Hellman Bogdon,
When I joined the Saint Michael staff last fall, it was quickly apparent that “Building the Kingdom” isn’t just a metaphor in our church communi ty. God is at work at Saint Michael, and his sacred work is manifested through the ways we pray, learn, serve, and give.
It is a privilege to support the generosity of Saint Michael’s parishioners through our annual stewardship campaign. Pledging to our stewardship campaign is an essential practice that supports our growing staff, campus, programs, and ministries. Faithful stewardship helps us both deepen and widen our ministries in response to God’s call to build the kingdom in new ways. While essential to operations, stewardship is also a key part of being a true disciple of Christ.
Giving generously shapes us as disciples in many ways. I particularly appreciate that stewardship shifts our perspective from a focus on our individual selves instead to how we are part of a larger whole, made to be connected to one another. When we prayerfully consider how God is calling us to contribute to the work of building the kingdom, we contribute to real impact both for our community and the communities we support outside of our walls.
And what an impact your gifts have! Emerging from the pandemic, we have seen truly exciting re-engagement and growth for our parish. Attendance increased not only in worship services, but also in learning, serving, and giving opportunities. Your support ensures we have the resources to support this growth and do the work that God gives us to do. As we grow in our discipleship, we also strengthen our ability to spread God’s love in the world.
As we step into this year’s stewardship campaign, I echo my thanks for your prayerful consideration and gifts to Saint Michael. Discipleship is the primary purpose of our life together, and if we continue to grow in the development of our discipleship identities, the impact will be more than we can anticipate. I cannot wait to see the impact of your gifts in the year ahead.
STAFF ARRIVALS
Join us in welcoming our newest staff members!
MARILU OHL
Senior Accountant
Saint Michael is pleased to welcome Marilu Ohl as the new Senior Accountant who brings over 30 years of accounting experience to our staff. She began her career in Public Accounting with BDO Seidman, starting as Office Manager then working in both audit and tax. Marilu worked for 13 years in Restaurant Management with Dallas long-time restaurateur Shannon Wynne, and most recently served as Senior Accountant in commercial real estate.
Marilu has lived in the Dallas area all her life, attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, and now lives in Richardson. She has two children, a daughter and son, and four grandchildren. Marilu is an avid hiker and spends much of her down time finding new trails to explore. She is very excited to join the Saint Michael and All Angels team and is looking forward to being a part of the growth and development of the church.
DEPARTURES
The Rev. Christian Basel, who has served as Curate for three years, has been called to serve as the next Rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Cheyenne, WY! Christian’s time with us has given him the intentional opportunity to grow vocationally and then take that learning out into the wider church. He has served our Saint Michael community with great skill these last three years, and those gifts will serve him well in his next chapter. Join us in giving thanks for his ministry among us and lift him up in prayer. Our love and support go with him!
SUSAN DIXON
Revenue Processing Specialist
Saint Michael is please to welcome Susan Dixon as the new Revenue Processing Specialist. Susan is a multifaceted professional who has a strong background in Revenue Cycle Management, A/R, and payment posting. Her primary work experience includes over 25 years at healthcare organizations central billing offices. Susan made history as the 1st black/female-owned craft store in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. She is also a proud graduate of the “Goldman Sachs 10K small businesses program (Dallas Cohort 23).”
Susan is a native Louisiana girl but considers “The Great State of Texas” her home since she’s been here for over 32 years. She has a passion for serving others, marriage ministry, and being a prayer warrior. Some of her favorite things include DIY crafting, hosting family events, visiting coffee shops, reading, and watching HGTV. Susan also loves traveling and spending quality time with her husband Howard. She is a proud mother to 3 adult children, grandmother of 10, and dog mom to Ranger, a 60lb Golden Doodle.
CYDNI JOUBERT
Assistant Director of Children & Family Ministry
Children & Family Ministry (CFM) warmly welcomes Cydni Joubert to the staff team as Assistant Director of CFM! Cydni is a Dallas native who bravely ventured off to the Big Apple to obtain her BA in Psychology and an MA in Sociology at St. John’s University in Queens, NY. Cydni’s previous work experience has been primarily with college students, concentrating on career readiness and faith formation retreat development. She is an aunt to several nieces and nephews and looks forward to engaging the children and parents of Saint Michael. She brings to us her magnetic personality, bright mind, and humble spirit.
Cheryl Kaschak has retired from her position as Accountant here at Saint Michael. Cheryl was with us for nine years and expanded her role greatly during her tenure. Early in her career here, she assumed the job duties of being the primary person for contribution and pledge entry. She spoke with many parishioners regarding their pledge payments and contribution statements. Cheryl will now be spending more relaxed time at home including the new activity of a grandchild expected in December of this year.
Diane Hollie has left her position as Receptionist. Diane worked at the front desk with grace, kindness, and strength since 2016. We will truly miss her big smile, southern hospitality, and good humor.
ST. MARY'S GUILD BAKING
Due to construction, St. Mary’s Guild will only be offering their delicious savory and sweets on certain dates. We will be located outside near the circle drive by the South Entrance between the Church and the Chapel and would love for you to stop by! Sale proceeds are given to local charities. We have excellent bakers and are looking for more to join us! If you enjoy baking and volunteering, please contact Bitsy Hudnall at bitsy_hudnall@yahoo.com to get involved!
September 29
Feast of Saint Michael Reception
October 27
Halloween
November 3
All Saints Day Reception
YOUTH MISSION WEEK
| June 3 –7, 2024
Saint Michael Youth ran a fantastic camp for the students at Foster Elementary with the theme of “Creation.” Throughout the week, our youth transformed the school campus into a creative wonderland! Campers and youth volunteers enjoyed playing games, making crafts, and even holding snakes! We celebrated the last day with a field trip to the Fort Worth Zoo! A huge thank you to all the youth and adult volunteers who made this week possible. Because of you, we brought so much joy to the students of Foster Elementary.
YOUTH MISSION TRIP TO BOLIVIA
| July 28 – August 8, 2024
The Rev. Robin Hinkle, Samuel Moore, and 10 of our students had the privilege of traveling to Cochabamba, Bolivia to spend extra special time with the children of Casa Esperanza, the home Saint Michael specifically sponsors.
The team made mosaic crosses with the children, bought plants for the Villa Community Garden, played at one of Cochabamba’s largest parks, built birdhouses (which the children painted and decorated), tie-dyed shirts, hosted a lively game of BINGO, planted a new garden for Casa Esperanza, and played basketball and soccer for hours on end. The team also visited Cristo De La Concordia, 130 foot tall statue of Christ that overlooks the city.
They heard wonderful sermons, worshiped (in Spanish and in English), and witnessed the Lord move alongside the children of Amistad. They reflected on the 23rd Psalm and what it meant to look to God as our true shepherd. The team was so encouraged by the testimonies of those around them. It was a true gift to see models of faith in action and to share the love of Christ with our brothers and sisters in return.
The team learned all about The Amistad Program for Families, a preventative care program that works with families who are at high risk of abandoning or showing violence to their children. Every family they work with is able to receive classes on parenting, work with clinical psychologists, and work to become a healthy family again. The kindness and attention the children receive through this program is tremendous, but what is more remarkable is the way The Amistad Program for Families anchors their work in the gospel message.
At the end of the trip, each student shared their favorite moments of the week and their big takeaways. Nearly every student reflected on the power of relationships and love displayed so readily at Amistad. These friendships and memories will last a lifetime!
CURIOUS ABOUT EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY?
By Jolie Derr
“EFM enriched my faith journey through the study of scripture and challenging societal issues. Our small group experienced deep discussion, created lasting relationships, and has immeasurably grown my walk with Christ. I highly recommend EfM to anyone curious about living and growing as a Christian in our challenging world.”
–Carol Roehrig
If you’ve never heard anyone talk about their Education for Ministry (EfM) experience, now is your chance. However, I must warn you: stories from EfM enthusiasts about the transformative nature of this program have a way of planting a seed in the listener, which will wait patiently to take root—when the time is right. If you keep reading, YOU may find yourself in that position. Take a look around the pages of this article and you’ll see parts and pieces of stories from some Saint Michael parishioners who are currently taking or have recently graduated from EfM and who wanted to share how impactful they have found the course to be.
My EfM seed was planted during a meal at Galatoire’s in New Orleans, my hometown, in the mid 1990s, over a lazy lunch with my uncle. When the conversation turned to a class he was taking, his face was overtaken by excitement. A graduate of Sewanee, my uncle explained that The University of the South launched Education for Ministry in the 1970s especially for the Christian laity, and that it had all of the challenge and rigor of a college course, but with no essays to turn in, no tests to take and no grades to consider. As I asked him questions, he answered that, no, of course he was not planning to change his profession from medical doctor to member of the
clergy, and no, he wasn’t traveling to Tennessee to take the course, since EfM was offered at our own New Orleans’ Christ Church Cathedral, as well as many Episcopal churches across the country. He impressed upon me that EfM was no ordinary Bible study or Sunday School class; it was something altogether unique.
Then, for the next 30 minutes, over entrees, coffee, and dessert, he shared his experiences of studying scripture, theology, and related materials, alongside other EfM classmates, expanding his knowledge in all of these areas of study. Most importantly, he told me, EfM had expanded his understanding of God, of himself, of his place in the world. He emphasized that it helped him understand his relationship with God and with other people and how he learned about putting this information into practice in his own life. I couldn’t help but be intrigued. Yes, there and then, a seed was planted. However, I had just gotten a promotion at work. EfM would have to wait.
In 2001, a job transfer to Dallas brought me to Saint Michael and All Angels. One Sunday, I opened the bulletin and was excited to learn that Education for Ministry was being offered here. But, I had a corporate job filled
with travel, and then a new marriage and later, I was a mother of young children. Still, anytime I heard mention of EfM, I would say to myself, “Someday.”
In the meantime, I discovered other groups at Saint Michel that became important to me: Doctor Bill Power’s Bible Study, The Unending Conversation Group, as well as Lectio Divina, to name a few. But, somewhere inside me, the little EfM seed was waiting patiently.
Eventually my EfM time came, during the early days of the Covid pandemic. I know I was in very good company when in March of 2020 my oh so busy life came to a screeching halt. I was also in very good, if all too close, company in my own home with my working-from-home husband, as well as my two daughters: an 8th grader, and a high school senior, both doing school on their computers in their bedrooms. And I was home, too, having abruptly left my 50+ hour a week job. Days, stretched into weeks, then months. I was bored, angry, frightened, aggravated—you name it.
And, although the people I loved most in the world were right there with me, I was lonely and chomping at the bit for connection. I missed church. I needed something to fill the void, something beyond worrying about each of my family members, as well as the entire world!
That is when I was moved to reach out to Elizabeth Lang, Saint Michael’s EfM Mentor, to ask about the course. I was acquainted with Elizabeth from Lectio Devina, and I had attended some of her Sunday adult education classes. It was always her name that I had seen beside the Education for Ministry postings. Elizabeth’s return email assured me that EfM would indeed be offered that fall on something called “Zoom” which would allow EfM classmates to take the course from their own homes. Perfect! Then Elizabeth mentioned that Education for Ministry was a four-year course— four years?! I had assumed it would be one year. I could
not possibly commit to four years! Thankfully, I didn’t let that stop me. I secretly told myself that while I might not be able to do four years, I would move forward and sign up for year one. In fact, you always sign up for one year at a time. Don’t let the four years keep you from considering EfM!
My EfM pilgrimage began in my own home, on a computer screen, meeting strangers virtually, in little squares, Brady Bunch style. Over that year the relationships between us grew, thanks to Elizabeth Lang’s mentorship and byway of the Respect Guidelines that are a foundational part of EfM. These guidelines are simple “rules of engagement” which help students deal with the material and with one another. They create a space in which to be open—open about questions, open about how the material challenges you or informs you. Having a time and place where one can count on confidentiality and respect fosters growth. It is the readings, the homework and especially the class time conversations that make this program so very special. EfM doesn’t offer or encourage easy answers. On the contrary. It makes you think. I like to call it “Education for Mystery,” because no matter how much I learned, I was continually left with a sense of wonder.
Another thing that makes EfM special is that students in all four years are in class together. While there are times when the coursework calls for common readings for all years, most of the time students in each year read completely different lessons for the week—which one might think would be confusing. However, as led by our mentor, the resulting conversations are richer, more meaningful and more complex, in the best sense because of this unique type of collaboration.
EfM also uses a tool called “Theological Reflection,” which requires that students bring curated stories of life experiences to the table which serve as jumping off places, a kind of mirror to help students reflect on the
ways that their own experiences may evoke similar emotional responses when viewed in various lights, through a prism of church tradition, our culture(s), our personal positions—these Theological Reflections have the goal of “knowing God and knowing about God through experience.” Using this method, students practice new ways of seeing and interacting with others, intentionally bringing a deepened way of being in the world to everyday events. The idea is that this process becomes a habit, and in turn, is a way to take what is learned in class outside of the classroom and into the world.
When the end of that first year arrived, and I had to say goodbye to the 4th year students, I felt sad, fearing that my EfM community would never be the same. And it wasn’t. But now, having finished my 4th year in EfM— yes, I stayed for all four years—I found that a new, treasured community was built each and every year and every year has been its own exceptional experience.
Over this time, I have read the entire Bible—Old Testament and New Testament—alongside accompanying articles, books and textbooks from varied theologians, including a four-inch thick tome on church history spanning 3,000 years. All of this reading, consisting of rich, deep, broad, and often challenging material, never ceased to leave me wanting more time in which to dig deeper. I have built relationships with my mentor and with my classmates that transcend explanation, and which I will treasure all of my life. And, Education for Ministry has taught me to be more vulnerable and more trusting of God’s ways of working in my life, which has, in turn, allowed me to identify and offer some of my gifts in ways I wasn’t prepared to do before EfM. It has shown me that my gifts may be different from your gifts, and that is how it should be. I’ve learned to risk a bit more, which has led me to making connections I might not otherwise have made. For example, I recently joined the choir at Saint Michael, and my decision to
join is directly related to my time in EfM. While I’ve always been a singer, I had never thought of my singing as a “ministry.” EfM helped me to see that possibility. And, I have been astounded by how much my short time in the choir has deepened my own worship experience and enriched my life. But, what’s been even more astonishing is the many parishioners, those I know and those I do not, who have come up to me after church services and have thanked me for singing in the choir and for enriching their worship experiences. Singing has surely become part of my ministry.
In addition, before EfM I would not have written an article for the Archangel. I would not have had the courage to share my story or believe that anyone might find value here. But, when our mentor, Elizabeth Lang, asked me to write it, I was able to trust that God will work with it and through it to reach others who might be wondering about EfM. So I am offering this article, itself, as part of my ministry.
I want to end by saying that what I’ve learned most through EfM is that making a connection with others— relationship—is likely the holiest and most important work we do in this world: emulating or perhaps even participating in the most important Relationship—The Holy Trinity. Through EfM I’ve come to believe that every connection matters, no matter how big or how small, and in ways that are impossible to anticipate- again there’s that mystery. And, we aren’t there alone. God is with us in every relationship and connection, doing more than we can know or imagine.
So there you have it. I wouldn’t be surprised if my story, and the others shared here have planted a seed for you, encouraging you to find a time that might be right for you to commit to taking just one year of EfM. Who knows, you might just stay for all four!
“I've been an EfM mentor for 45 years, and I'm not
bored by repetition. Although the curriculum gets updated,
what
intrigues me is how people change as they engage in EfM. I can't predict how they will grow; it's spiritual growth inspired by the Holy Spirit as they learn about Christian tradition in the context of personal experience and the times in which we live.
–Elizabeth Lang, EfM Mentor
Evensong All Souls
GREEK SALAD
NO HEAT TOMATO SAUCE
INGREDIENTS:
• Lettuce
• Cucumber
• Red Onion
• Coarse Sea Salt
• Tomatoes
• Fresh Oregano and Basil
• Kalamata Olives
• Crumbled Feta
• Lemon
• Olive Oil
• Black Pepper
PREPARATION
If you are transporting an entire salad, try layering all the ingredients in the bottom of a large bowl.
Place any diced or cut up food in the bottom of the bowl. For a Greek Salad layer diced cucumbers sprinkled with salt (to release some moisture), sliced red onions, cut up tomatoes, fresh oregano and basil leaves, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta. Place your clean lettuce on top and tightly cover the bowl.
Pack a lemon a bottle of olive oil, sea salt, and pepper mill... and you have a great salad 'to go'! When you mix it all together you will notice the juices on the bottom will mix with the oil for your dressing.
Recipe by Kristine Ackerman CCP
These recipes and many more are from the Saint Michael's Farmers Market website at saintmichaelsmarket.com/recipes.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 lbs Fresh Tomatoes
• 1 Large Red Onion
• Coarse Sea Salt
• 12 Stuffed Green Olives
• 1 tbsp. Capers (or more)
• Fresh Oregano, Basil, Parsley
• Garlic Cloves
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• Texas Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ to ¾ Pound Dried Pasta, such as Percatelli
PREPARATION
In a large shallow bowl place about 2 pounds of thinly sliced tomatoes, and 1 good-sized onion, peeled and thinly sliced. Sprinkle with some coarse salt.
Add sliced stuffed green olives and capers.
Add chopped oregano and basil (to taste), a handful or two of chopped parsley, and a few whole but crushed garlic cloves, to taste.
Top with a generous portion of freshly ground black pepper.
Pour enough Extra Virgin Olive Oil into the bowl to just cover the mixture. Cover with plastic wrap and leave at room temperature up to 24 hours.
At serving time cook ½ pound of Percatelli or other dried pasta until al dente. Drain, place in a serving dish. Ladle (without heating) the tomato mixture with all the juice which has collected over the hot pasta. Then sprinkle a good portion of freshly grated Parmesan over the top. Serve immediately.
Recipe by Kristine Ackerman CCP
GRILLED SALMON WITH FRESH AVOCADO SALSA
SALMON INGREDIENTS
• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
SALMON PREPARATION
Mix the salt, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper together. Rub the seasoning mix into the salmon fillets and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Pre-heat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with melted coconut oil and place on grill. Grill until the fish is cooked through, about 3-4 minutes on each side (the salmon should release itself from the grill when it's ready to flip). When done, remove to a platter and let rest for about 5 minutes.
Serve the salmon topped with the avocado salsa.
SALSA INGREDIENTS:
• 2 avocados, pits removed and flesh chopped
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
• Juice from 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
• Sea salt to taste
SALSA PREPARATION
While the salmon rests in the fridge with seasoning, combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Chill until ready to use.
FALL BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
SOUP INGREDIENTS
• 1 large (about 3 lb.) butternut squash
• 1 large bulb shallot (¼ cup to ½ cup diced)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon Allspice
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2-3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cups chicken stock
GARNISH
• Toasted pumpkin seeds
• ½ cup whipped cream
• Chili oil (optional)
PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Slice squash lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast squash flesh side down for 40 minutes or until tender. Let cool slightly and scoop out flesh and discard tough peel. Set squash aside.
In a heavy bottom pot, on medium high heat, sauté shallots until translucent. Add garlic and stir; allow to get fragrant but not brown. Add squash, all spice, salt, pepper, maple syrup, and chicken stock. Stir to combine and simmer, letting the flavors meld.
Using an immersion or standard blender, blend all ingredients until smooth consistency. If soup is too thick, add chicken stock or water to desired consistency. Finally, blend in 2-3 tablespoons of whole butter for richness.
Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, a few pumpkin seeds, and a drizzle of chili oil.
From Chef Jed Demler
John the Baptist
Long ago, there was an old priest named Zechariah. He and his wife, Elizabeth, didn’t have any children but always wanted them. They prayed many, many days throughout their life that God would send them a child, but now they’re old and beyond having children. Still, they prayed about it. One day, God appeared to Zechariah while he was lighting candles in the temple and said, “Zechariah, I have news for you.” “Yes, Lord,” Zechariah said with joy, “please tell me!”
God said, “You and your wife are going to have a child.” Zechariah couldn’t believe it and said, “Nahhh, that’s impossible, Lord! I’m an old man. My wife? Phew! She’s old too! What am I going to do?” “No, no,” said the Lord, “this is what I’m telling you: You will have a child! Now go home and tell your wife.” Zechariah ran home and shouted, “Honey, I’ve got something to tell you, quick! God appeared to me in the temple and said you and I are going to have a child!” Elizabeth
said, “Are you crazy? This can’t be!” But God said it would happen, and sure enough, she became pregnant. God said to Zechariah, “Because you didn’t believe me right away, you’re not going to be able to speak.” From that time on, he couldn’t speak and had to write things on a piece of paper if he wanted to say something. After nine months, that child was born. “I have a child!” Elizabeth screamed with joy. Zechariah held the baby in his arms, and all of a sudden, God gave him his voice back. He said, “This child will be named John.”
John grew up to be an adult. He was a rugged guy with rugged clothes, a staff, a full beard, and didn’t look very clean. (He’s probably no one you’d invite over for dinner.) He went down and lived by the Dead Sea and became a preacher. He would collect honey to eat, but you know what else he ate? Could you imagine he ate locusts, too?! He chewed on the locusts, ate the honey, and began to preach along the Dead Sea. Then, he moved on towards the Jordan River, and
This story comes from our book, Stories From The Bible: From Creation To Pentecost, a collection of stories told by Father Michael Harmuth at Saint Michael in Joy: A Children’s Service. Illustrated by Travis Harvey.
people from all over would say, “You know, there’s a prophet down there they call ‘John the Baptist,’ because he’s baptizing people.” People would go down to hear him, and he would say to them, “The Lord is coming! Repent! Repent, and come into the waters!” They would say to God, “I’m sorry.” Then, John would baptize them, and they would be cleansed.
One day he could see his cousin, Jesus, coming down the path. Jesus came to him and said, “John, baptize me.” John was shocked and said, “I shouldn’t baptize you! You should baptize me!” But Jesus said, “No, no, you baptize me. This is the will of my Father.” So, John baptized Jesus, and a dove came down from heaven (people’s mouths fell open when they saw it). Then, they heard a voice say, “You are my beloved son. It’s in you that I am well pleased.” The voice said to the people standing around, “Listen to him!” Just as quickly as the dove came, it disappeared.
Did you know that at our baptism, I believe those same words are said about us: “This is my son, my daughter, in whom I am well pleased.”
Amen. May God bless you.
This story comes from our book, Stories From The Bible: From Creation To Pentecost, a collection of stories told by Father Michael Harmuth at Saint Michael in Joy: A Children’s Service. Illustrated by Travis Harvey.
GRANT THEM ETERNAL REST
May the souls of these faithful departed rest in peace
Marna Louise Darst McGrath
April 29, Diane McGrath (daughter) and Connor (grandson)
Gene Alice Wienbroer Sherman
May 4, Holly Peña (daughter) and Carlos (son-in-law)
Dr. John Allison Whitsitt
May 6, William “Bill” Whitsitt, III (brother) and Julia (sister-in-law)
Robert Allen "Bobby" Nichols
May 7, Pam Nichols (wife), Mandy Main (daughter), Clayton (son-in-law), Brooks, Ryder, and Hank (grandchildren)
Paul Selman "Pete" Adams III
May 9, Lynne Adams (wife)
Garnett Dowell Brown Grevelle
May 10
Alphonso "Fonse" Ragland ll
May 13
Veronica Latcham "Vicki" Russell
May 20, Jim Russell (husband)
Janice "Diane" Chancelor
May 21, Ann Mills (sister-in-law)
Dr. S.A. "Al" Somodevilla
May 22, The Rev. René Somodevilla (brother) and Nancy (sisterin-law)
James Earl "Jim" Wiley
May 25
Joseph Patrick "Joe" Woodall
May 25, David Woodall (son) and Nancy (daughter-in-law)
Ruth Louise Pretzat Trescott Krusen
May 29
Kenton "Ken" Chickering III
June 18, Julie Albert (daughter) and Isabella (granddaughter)
David Lawrence Loomis
July 1, Jo Loomis (wife)
Thomas Fenton "Tom" Allen, Sr.
July 3, The Rev. Doyle Dietz Allen (wife), Thomas Allen, Jr. (son), Bonner (daughter-in-law), Juliet and Susanna (granddaughters)
Jessie Fay Oliver Tatum
July 3, Sloane and Shea Castleman (granddaughters)
Francine Cannon Flautt
July 4
John Edmond McClung III
July 4, Chris McClung (son)
Virginia Kathleen "Kathy" Buxton
July 6, Ginny Searcy (daughter), Conner (son-in-law), Will, Brooks, and Ellie (grandchildren)
Robert Macaulay "Bob" Nicoud
July 9, Robert Nicoud, Jr. (son), Carrie (daughter-in-law), Alicia Lawson (granddaughter), John (grandson-in-law) and Evelyn (great-granddaughter)
Allyson Puckett
July 10, J. Puckett (brother), Beth (sister-in-law), Virginia, Daniel, and Annie (nieces and nephew)
Scott Shaw Calhoun
July 12, Shelly Mathis (wife)
Louise Halene Killen
July 18, Susannah and John Killen (parents)
George Ray Lewis
July 26, Jeanne Lewis (wife)
Dr. Steven G. Manikas
July 28, Dr. Theodore Manikas (son)
Christina Marie Williams
August 3
Richard Andrew "Rich" DeKnock
August 12
BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
Celebrating the arrival of our newest family members
Robert Heath Townsend III
Monday, May 6, 2024
Parents: Courtney and Heath Townsend
Grandparents: Dee Ann and Gregg Anigian
Kathryn (Kate) Carmichael Gresham
Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Parents: Hannah and Michael Gresham
Claire Elizabeth Crupi
Monday, June 10, 2024
Parents: Renee and Matt Crupi
Arden Lydia Addy
Friday, July 26, 2024
Grandparents: Lydia and Bill Addy
Immanuel Joshua Vasquez
August 4, 2024
Grandparents: Laura and Dan Vasquez *As of: 8/15/2024
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
Sunday, October 6 | 4 – 5 p.m. | West Parking Lot
From kittens to chickens, guppies to puppies, our clergy will be blessing all pets great and small. This free event celebrating the Feast of St. Francis is open to the entire community. A short liturgy will be led by the clergy followed by individual pet blessings. Each pet will receive a St. Francis medallion for their pet collar. Refreshments for pets and their humans will be served. SaintMichael.org/PetBlessing
SFORZANDO
Mary & Jerry Andrlik
Arkay Foundation
Marla & Tony Briggle
Mary Louise & David Hopson
Judge JW Kerr Jr.
Kelly Compton & DeWitt McCarter
Suzanne & Jay Lipscomb
Jeff & Darrel Rice
Wyatt & Carolyn Rousseau
John & Kathy Yeaman
Saint Michael Presents gratefully acknowledges and thanks our generous donors!
CRESCENDO PRESTO
Shannon Wilson Callewart
Jane & Pat Jenevin
Allan & Dawn Morrill
Byrd Teague
Mary & Matt Waller
Sherry & Robert Wilson
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Pam Barbera Nell Beck
Becky & Mike Casey
John Ellerman
Louise & Guy Griffeth
Libby Norwood Johnson
Dr. David & Mrs. Corinne Karp
Patricia Plettner
Gigi & Jerry Poglitsch
Erica & Charlie Sartain
Tricia & Tom Stewart
Paige Wilbur
ARPEGGIO
Julie & Chuck Butterworth
Jane & Greg Greene
Elizabeth & John Lang
Tig Thompson
DOLCE
Sandra & Dr. Fred Ciarochi
Margaret Cervin
Sally & Mark Cullum
Kendall & Deanna Goodman
Barbara Kandel
Don & Pat Moore
Jennifer & Thomas Russell
Gail & Ken Vesledahl
To donate to Saint Michael Presents, please scan the QR code or visit saintmichael.org/SMP.
