The Archangel Magazine - Winter 2023

parish party

7-11 P.M.

Arts District Mansion: 2101 Ross Avenue, Dallas

The mission of the WOSM Parish Party and Auction is to promote fellowship while raising money that will be returned through grants from the Gifts Committee to agencies fighting poverty in the Dallas area and beyond. This year is our triumphant return after five years, with guests from Saint Michael and the Dallas community enjoying dinner, drinks, dancing to the Pictures Band (Austin, TX), big board and live auctions, valet, and a wine and whiskey pull.

For more information:

Scan the QR code or visit our website:

saintmichael.org/women

women of saint michael

University of North Texas

FANTASMI

at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

Sunday, October 29, 2023

7 PM in the Church

“Energetic to the point of breaking”

–Neulengbach Nön

“Intoxicating”

–Passauer Neue Presse

SaintMichael.org/Fantasmi

SAINT MICHAEL STAFF

Dr. Robert August

Rob Baber

The Rev. Christian Basel

Martha Hellman Bogdon

The Rev. Nate Bostian

Katherine Bowen

Dianne Boyd

The Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon

Melisa Bray

Justin Brooks

Carter Bruey

Cedric Buard

Stephen Burk

Robert Butler

BJ Clark

Nozar Daryapayma

Haley Dettra

Charlie Eidelman

Sarah Fairweather

Bonita Frederick

The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata

The Rev. Dr. Andrew Grosso

Tammy Hale

Shelby Hendryx

Lynelle Hill

The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle

Catherine Hinkley

Diane Hollie

Meghan Houk

Angelia Hunter

Beth Igoe

Madelyn Ivy

The Rev. Robert (Bob) Johnston, III

Cheryl Kaschak

Jordan Lawton

The Rev. Mary Lessmann

Chris Love

Bhavnita Masih

Caroline Moore

Samuel Moore

Colleen O’Hara

Darla Osterhout

The Rev. Greg Pickens

Jenna Pitman

Edgar Porras

Shannon Rawdon

Marco Reyes

Elsa SanJuan

Dr. Timothy M. Smith

Rob Springer-Kyle

Celise Stephenson

Samuel Sweet

Meredith Turner

Tish Visinsky

Caroline Wilks

Associate Director of Music and Organist

Director of Finance

Curate

Director of Stewardship

Sunday Assistant

Assistant to Pastoral Care

Coordinator for Worship Media

Vice Rector

Operations Manager

Director of Contemporary Music

Graphic Designer I

Manager of AVL & Technology

Interim Director of Music and Organist

Assistant Director of Facilities

Assistant to Operations

Director of Facilities

Head Sacristan

Organ Scholar

Digital Marketing Manager

Receptionist Rector

Senior Associate for Worship and Discipleship

Assistant for Worship & Liturgy

Director of Early Childhood Music

Assistant to Finance and Foundation

Associate for Mission & Outreach

Assistant to Music

Receptionist

Director of Children and Family Ministry

Accountant

Assistant to Formation

Assistant Director of CFM

Associate for Contemporary Worship

Accountant

Assistant to Advancement

Associate for Spiritual Growth

Bookshop Manager

Executive Assistant to the Rector

Director of Advancement

Director of Youth Ministries

Director of Operations

Accountant

Associate for Pastoral Care

Graphic Designer II

Sexton

Executive Assistant to the Vice Rector

Sexton

Sexton

Director of Formation

Director of Engagement

Database Manager & Parish Records

Assistant Choirmaster

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 Worship & Discipleship

The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle , Associate for Mission & Outreach

The Rev. Greg Pickens , Associate for Pastoral Care

The Rev. Christian Basel , Curate

ASSISTING CLERGY

The Rev. Nate Bostian, Sunday Assistant

The Rev. Bob Johnston , Associate for Contemporary Worship

The Rev. Mary Lessmann , Associate for Spiritual Growth

saintmichael.org/live

The Archangel Newsletter (USPS 015-033) is published liturgically seasonally by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church.

CHIEF DESIGNER

Jenna Pitman

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER

Carter Bruey

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Ken Brannon

Robin Hinkle

Bhavnita Masih

Meredith Turner

Tish Visinsky

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rob Springer

Chris Girata

Robin Hinkle

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Louis DeLuca

Sarah Fairweather

Jenna Pitman

9 a.m. Service

Saint Michael Chapel

9:30 a.m. Activities

Garden Cloister, Coke Room, & Parlor

No part of this publication may be used without written permission.

Every effort is made to avoid error, misspellings, and omissions. If an error comes to your attention, please accept our apologies and notify us.

The festival begins with an Adventthemed Joy service and includes the appearance of a very special guest: St. Nicholas! Following the service, all are invited to enjoy treats and refreshments, participate in a Christmas service project, and engage in a variety of Advent activities.

SaintMichael.org | (214) 363-5471

POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to the Archangel, Saint Michael And All Angels Church, P.O. Box 12385, Dallas TX 75225-0385 @smaadallas

SaintMichael.org/AdventFest

2023 VESTRY

Arnold Spencer

Holly Peña

Kelly Reddell

Janice Bywaters

Dianna Bowen

Mary Louise Hopson

Senior Warden

Junior Warden

Warden-at-Large Treasurer

Chancellor Clerk

Dee Ann Anigian, Allison Bovard, Stuart Brown, Squeaky Connolly, Eric Gilmour, Carol Goglia, LeAnne Langholz, Carol Roehrig, Jack Rubarth, Ginger Sager, Keller Webster, Hudson Weichsel

2023 DIOCESAN DELEGATES

Exp 2023

Bill McGannon

Exp 2024 Paul Talbot, Heather Lorch, Rafik Nassif

Exp 2025 Croft Chestnut, Kathy Hayes, Todd Howard

Alternates:

Exp 2023 Jane Greene (1), Keller Webster (2), Judy Mercer (3), Suzanne Lipscomb (4)

Exp 2024 George Baldwin (1), Erica Sartain (2), Stephen Miller (3)

Exp 2025 Chuck Butterworth (1), Joseph Cahoon (2)

2023

officers

Stewart Thomas President

Larry Galvin Treasurer

Grady Schleier

Assistant Treasurer

Elizabeth "Lee" Thompson Secretary

Katherine Blachly

Vice President of Communications

Nita

The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, Rector Arnold Spencer, Senior Warden

Janice Bywaters, Treasurer Rob Baber, Director of Finance

Trus Tees

Mary Abrams

Harriet Cousins

Larry Galvin

Allen Lassiter

Matt Waller

Tony Briggle

Katherine Blachly

Nita Clark

Joe Colonnetta

Eric Conner

Stacey Malcolmson

David Martin

Grady Schleier

A BEACON OF HOPE

The Jesus Movement, what we call Christianity, dates back to Jesus himself. In the 1st century, followers of Jesus of Nazareth began to build small churches in houses, in public spaces, in synagogues, and more. These small worshipping communities were passionate about the vision of God’s kingdom on earth, just as Jesus had explained. And they had faith in God’s re-creation because of Jesus’s miraculous resurrection and defeat of death itself. Although they had commitment and courage, they faced an uphill battle.

I once had a teacher say that Christianity in the 21st century has more in common with Christianity in the 1st century than we might think. The world of the 1st century was plagued with hurdles that made Christian worship difficult at best, and life-threatening at worst. And yet, in the face of such cultural challenges, those early followers of Jesus persevered. For those of us seeking to follow Jesus in the 21st century, the specific cultural hurdles may have changed, but the challenge of jumping those hurdles is as high as it has been in our lifetimes.

Today, we are facing a critical moment in the life of Christianity, one in which we are called to make

the gospel real to a culture that doesn’t know how to commit to discipleship. The cultural fabric of our world is frayed and continuing to unravel. It is well documented that Americans are more sad, more anxious, and (frankly) meaner than at any time in the recent past.

A recent article put our current culture into perspective: “The rising rates of depression have been well publicized, as have the rising deaths of despair from drugs, alcohol, and suicide. But other statistics are similarly troubling. The percentage of people who say they don’t have close friends has increased fourfold since 1990… More than half of all Americans say that no one knows them well. The percentage of high-school students who report ‘persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness’ shot up from 26 percent in 2009 to 44 percent in 2021… At the far extreme of meanness, hate crimes rose in 2020 to their highest level in 12 years. Murder rates have been surging, at least until recently. Same with gun sales. Social trust is plummeting. In 2000, two-thirds of American households gave to charity; in 2018, fewer than half did. The words that define our age reek of menace: conspiracy, polarization, mass shootings, trauma, and safe spaces.” 1

The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata

1 David Brooks, “How America Got Mean,” The Atlantic, August 14, 2023.

Those of us who choose to follow Jesus must navigate that swirling maelstrom of 21st century problems.

Late in Jesus’s ministry, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They said, “Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” Then Jesus asked them a more specific question, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus’s response to Simon’s confession of faith is truly profound. Rather than saying something about Simon being right or getting to heaven, Jesus said, “Blessed are you, Simon… And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church….” This is the greatest, clearest confession of faith in Christ in the Bible—and to Jesus himself, no less—and Jesus responds: “build my church.”

Jesus’s vision of faithful followers building up God’s church on earth is clear. You and I are part of a centuries-long relay race, where faithful disciples have raised up one another and passed the batons over and over again. Just as Jesus’s first followers committed to a life of discipleship in the face of monumental challenges, so, too, are we being challenged to step forward, continuing to bear witness to God’s saving love through Christ.

By now, I hope you’ve heard that Saint Michael is embarking on a bold new chapter of our life together. More than 75 years ago, faithful disciples of Jesus planted a church in a very underdeveloped area north of Dallas. That church has grown into the wonderful home we share today. Each generation has taken their turn to build upon the sure foundation of Christ in this community, and it’s time for us to take our turn to build, too. Our newly launched Building our Future capital campaign is an ambitious commitment to energizing our mission and ministry now and for future generations.

Saint Michael has been a beacon of inspiration to countless people. Some have been raised here, some have found faith here, some have rediscovered their purpose here, and some of have been healed here. Each one of us has a uniquely powerful connection

to this special church, and as we invest ourselves in faith here, we have, by the grace of God, grown our discipleship. I dream of giving that same opportunity to future generations, and that means renewing our campus for us and for them.

Buildings must grow and change to remain relevant, and our church campus is no exception. Built over decades, piece by small piece, we have inherited a space that is no longer conducive to the community we wish to build. Instead, the new campus we’re planning will provide smarter, better space for our church community—space in which we can pray, learn, serve, and give in more profound ways. Space in which we can be transformed by Christ and in which we can grow with others in that transformation. The vision is bold, and the plan is significant, and the time to invest in our future is now.

All of this is to the glory of God’s dream of a heavenly kingdom on earth. Jesus came to bring God’s grace and love to us right now. As we deepen our faith in God’s never-failing love, we strengthen our ability to spread that love in the world. No amount of money can make as significant an impact as a group of people who commit to putting love first. Saint Michael bears witness to that truth, and as we rebuild our campus, we will build up our community and in turn build up God’s kingdom.

Join me in this historic moment. Join me in a major investment in the future of Saint Michael—in the future of the church that means so much to all of us. We need our collective prayers and presence and generosity to make this dream a reality. This is the moment when we show our gratitude to those who came before us, and this is the moment when we invest in the future for those who will come after us. This is the moment when we say yes to the challenge God puts to each generation—to build up His kingdom in real, tangible ways. Together, with each step we take toward a deeper commitment to our mission, we change the world for good.

Our future is bright, my friends, and I firmly believe the best is yet to come.

This is a unique time in Saint Michael’s history—a time that urges us to think boldly, consider necessary improvements to our campus, and enhance our spiritual growth and outreach in the community. This historic capital campaign is focused on Uniting our Community, Reinvigorating our Campus, and Investing in Education

Exceeding this goal will allow us to repair the beautiful stained glass windows in the Church, add a meditation garden adjacent to our exterior columbaria, elevate audio visual capabilities, and address increased construction costs.

SaintMichael.org/BuildingOurFuture

Building Our Future: UNITING OUR COMMUNITY

Renovating and expanding our gathering spaces will allow members and friends to come together as one across all our services and events. Saint Michael is enlivened by the spirit of Christ and strengthened by our commitment to our parish community. Parishioners at Saint Michael look to the future with great hope and expectation that our discipleship will grow tangibly and significantly.

“We put our hearts and souls into this effort as honorary co-chairs because we felt called to do so. This place has given us so much throughout the years and we wanted to give back.”

– Ann & Lee Hobson Honorary Campaign Co-Chairs

“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 & Matt Waller Campaign Co-Chairs

Café

Parish Hall

Building Our Future: REINVIGORATING OUR CAMPUS

Saint Michael continues to be community focused and mission driven. For so long, our facility has not been conducive to sharing our Episcopal teachings across the parish. Upgrading our decades-old utilities infrastructure and maximizing parking will resolve challenges and deferred maintenance needs. Investing in our campus is necessary to further our Christian formation and ensure that our campus will withstand the next 75 years.

Indoor Play

Building Our Future: INVESTING IN EDUCATION

Expanding the spaces for adult formation will allow us to continue to foster knowledge, faith, and fellowship. Expanding the learning environment for our Children, Youth, and Family Ministries, as well as Saint Michael Episcopal School, will allow us to further invest in the faith formation of our youngest learners.

JOIN US!

We know how important this parish is to you. This is where we worship, where we celebrate new life and bury our loved ones, and where we are formed as Christian disciples. This campaign will preserve the beauty of our sacred spaces while creating new areas and better equipping our parish with updated facilities that support our continued spiritual formation for generations to come. For further information or ways to give, please contact Caroline Moore at cmoore@saintmichael.org.

Giving to our annual stewardship campaign, Building the Kingdom, is an essential practice that supports Saint Michael’s growing staff, campus, programs, and ministries. While essential to our operations, it is most important to remember that your giving is part of the stewardship of our time, talents, and goods, and that stewardship is a key part of being true disciples of Christ.

All of our ministries are seeking new opportunities for growth, and we now have the chance to continue building out our programs and offerings in exciting ways. This year’s annual stewardship campaign is an opportunity for you to consider prayerfully how God is calling you to contribute to the work of building the kingdom.

Mission & Outreach

Mission and Outreach is embarking on a new era of impactful work, building on the substantial legacy of our past. In collaboration with Dallas leaders, we are pursuing bold initiatives to help address the challenges of poverty, senior resources, and stable housing.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care continues to be focused on our parishioners, friends, and neighbors who find themselves needing a little help from their faith community. Because of your support, we expect to grow those ministries that provide face-to-face care for those who may be experiencing loss, grief, or other spiritual needs.

Formation

The focus of Children & Family Ministry is to help children experience the love of Jesus, invite their friends, and build a lasting and resilient faith. Youth Formation helps our youth engage their questions, build relationships with others, and grow in their faith through Bible study, missions, and small groups. Adult Formation is focused on creating clear pathways to mature discipleship.

Worship & Liturgy

Saint Michael offers praise to God through traditional liturgies and familiar hymns, through more informal services and contemporary songs, and through the jubilant Joy services we offer for our youngest members. Nourished by the scriptures and the sacraments, we go forth into the world to proclaim the love of God both in word and in deed and to invite others into being part of God’s mission.

- The Rev. Dr. Andrew Grosso

Ways to Give

Director of Stewardship mbogdon@saintmichael.org

Caroline Moore Director of Advancement cmoore@saintmichael.org

Martha Hellman Bogdon

e Building our Future capital campaign will transform our physical and spiritual life together. In this campaign, long-overdue campus needs will be addressed to Unite our Community, Reinvigorate our Campus, and Invest in Education. Although we will experience some short-term inconveniences that come with any construction project, our e orts will bring long-term bene ts that strengthen our parish by better utilizing our space for life-changing praying, teaching, gathering, and connecting.

Building our Future will consist of three phases:

January2024–September2024

September 2024–March2026

Refresh

April2026–

September 2026

As we begin the journey with Phase I: Remodel, this recon guration will impact meeting locations for some groups and activities. Sta and parish leaders will be meeting with leaders of every impacted group to secure suitable alternate locations. Please note that group leaders will then inform group members of their new location by Dec. 1, 2023.

While we are excited for the transformation of our buildings, we recognize and celebrate that people make the greatest impact possible, which is why we are committed to ensuring everyone is well-informed and well-equipped to navigate this brief time of change. We look forward to the long-term bene ts of this transformation and to sharing more logistical details soon. For more information, please visit SaintMichael.org/ConstructionImpact

In addition, please visit SaintMichael.org/BuildingOurFuture for details, including how you can join us in this bold campaign and to see renderings that illustrate the future transformation of our campus. If you have speci c questions, please email info@saintmichael.org

Recon guration of Saint Michael Episcopal School and Saint Michael Episcopal Church classrooms

LAUNCH OF BUILDING OUR FUTURE: CAPITAL CAMPAIGN | September 24, 2023

Did you hear the exciting news? We took a monumental step forward by launching our historic capital campaign alongside this year's annual campaign. We're overflowing with gratitude for the incredible generosity and unwavering faithfulness that has brought us to this pivotal moment. Now, it's time to look ahead and make a lasting impact just as our predecessors did. We invite you to prayerfully consider how YOU can play a vital role in advancing our programs and ministries with a capital gift and an annual gift. Let's make history together! To read all about our Capital Campaign, please visit SaintMichael.org/BuildingOurFuture

EYES TO SEE WITH A HEART TO LOVE

By the Rev. Robin Hinkle, Associate for Mission & Outreach

This summer has been a wonderful time for me. I have had a chance to spend time with our youth. Together we were blessed to meet children and adults through our work, getting to know their stories.

• I met a Granny sitting in her wheelchair. She shared that she had been abused by kids who used her for her social security money. She ended up at Austin Street Center while she waits for a new safe place to live. Unfortunately, I have heard this story far too often.

• I heard about children in Bachman Lake living in one-bedroom apartments with fourteen other people.

• I also heard about women and children who suffer physical and emotional abuse and trauma who cannot report it because of some of their family members’ legal status as undocumented immigrants.

In the midst of all this, I was invited to a conference at Harvard University where I met with the team from the highly successful Harlem Children’s Zone. I was there as part of the strategic planning team for Bachman Lake Together, and some of our other Dallas collaborators were there as well. We learned about the Harlem Children’s Zone cradle to career initiatives and the great work they have accomplished in Harlem moving children and families from poverty to middle class. We learned about specific strategies that can work.

At the conference, we also learned about data we can use to focus the work. Whereas in the past, we had to rely on zip code-level data covering large areas, we now have data that can pinpoint struggling neighborhoods down to specific square blocks. This data shows that where you are born makes all the difference of how your life

may develop and your potential opportunities as you grow: your health, your education, your future income and your life expectancy. In all of these cases, we know how incredibly hard it is to survive in poverty, and after generations of existence in families and neighborhoods, there is often very little hope that things will change. The problems are too deep and complex for the average individual to overcome.

It is not just education and income opportunities that are missing. Communities of poverty are the places where families feel unsafe; drug dealers prey on children and the disabled; where violence, including gun violence, is a very real threat. These are places where "weeds" grow. We hope that the police, the justice system, and our public schools will fix the problems, but if we are honest, we have not made headway in these neighborhoods in decades. And

“The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom;”

– Matthew 13:37–38

so evil and darkness and misery continues to live and fester where our neighbors live.

We know some of what can help.

We at Saint Michael have been a part of this effort since the time we joined forces with the people at St. Philip’s School and Community Center, and then the Jubilee Park neighborhood, and now at Bachman Lake Together and Stephen C. Foster Elementary School. The good work of these community partners is why they are being invited to be a part of a coalition that very well could lead the citywide vision in addressing child poverty. But even the work of this coalition is just a drop in the bucket.

I tell people I have the best job in the world. I am so blessed to be a priest here on Sunday, and during the week I get to work on all these things. My role as the Associate of Mission and Outreach at Saint Michael is to create opportunities for you to serve alongside our ministry partners in Dallas. But my role also includes working with our Foundation and with you in community collaborations. To dream about and address poverty in some of our neighborhoods. To work on systemic change.

We are the ones to whom Jesus pleads: if you have ears, listen. We are in the position of power in comparison to the vast majority of the world, and certainly as it pertains to a large percentage of our Dallas neighbors. We are on the edge of a great opportunity through the work of the Horizon Fund, the All Angels Foundation

and Saint Michael Mission and Outreach. We have the resources, the brain power, the ability to collaborate strategically, the time and the talent needed to make great strides in ending poverty in communities within Dallas.

We know some great things that will work, evidence-based approaches that have been proven over the last couple of decades. We will need to be creative in rounding out the strategy, because it will take basic aid: food, clothing, and housing while we work on systemic change. It will take a combination of tutoring, mentoring, the creation of safe neighborhoods, better housing, preventive healthcare, and intensive mental healthcare. It will take long-term relationships with individual children and families, creating individual plans to empower them to grow and thrive. For those of you who are funders and businesspeople, you realize all of this will require a massive amount of money and energy, but I hope you also see the potential to create jobs and opportunities for those who join, and for those who will benefit from this tremendous work. Because our goal should be more than helping our impoverished neighbors merely survive. The end goal of this work is to create a vibrant middle class out of those who were destined to remain in poverty for generations.

These lofty goals take creativity, courage, intentionality, consistent time, and effort. But these are the goals of our God: that we care for his world and his people. It will take community collaboration. There are and will be plen-

ty of spaces for us to serve.

In the parable of the wheat and the tares (the weeds), our Lord spoke a truth that as Christians, we live in a world among the weeds. We live among the dark things of this world that try to overcome the good. Are you a weed yourself? I certainly hope not, but if so, get as quickly as you can into a conversation with our Lord. In my experience, the harder question for many is, are you in some way helping the darkness in our world to grow? Are you contributing to the problem by your words or your actions or your inaction?

This is tough stuff, but our Lord was clear. We cannot ignore or gloss over the parables that what we do on this side of heaven matters. Our choices, our priorities, and how we live our Christian life of faith matters. These are some of the parables and lessons that made our Lord unpopular with the leaders and others in his world.

We are called to aid God’s mission of empowering and healing our world. We have had a clear call by God throughout the history of our faith to care for the poor, the old, the sick, and the children. Those who are so often unseen. As disciples of Christ that is our calling in the villages where we have been placed by God. Dallas is the place, this is our time to live and act, and its people are the ones we are called to serve. This is our garden. This is where we are planted. This is where we are called, to add to the abundance of eternity by word and deed.

YOUTH CONFIRMATION RETREAT | September 8–10, 2023

Our 8th and 9th graders came together for a memorable overnight lock-in filled with growth, faith, and fellowship. From heartwarming worship in Saint Michael Chapel to team-building adventures at Group Dynamix, we learned that our journey with Christ is a daily commitment. Here's to a future filled with prayer, study, service, and giving!

For the Poor and Neglected in the Book of Common Prayer:

Almighty and most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected persons whom it would be easy for us to forget: the homeless and the destitute, the old and the sick, and all who have none to care for them. Help us to heal those who are broken in body or spirit, and to turn their sorrow into joy. Grant this, Father, for the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

DAY 3 29,000 senior citizens in Dallas live below the poverty line.

46,000 children will have food on their table in

DAY 17

1 in 5 children (nearly 300,000) in North Texas experience hunger.

The Advent calendar will be available at church entrances on November 26. Please participate in this Advent journey and return your bag to the South entrance the fi rst week of January.

DAY 22

North Texas is the 5th most food insecure region in the country.

Sunday, October 15 & Sunday, February 4

Sunday, November 5 12:15 p.m. in the Parlor

Led by Allison Bovard & Diana Newton

In September 2024 we will be taking a group of women to hike the final leg of the Camino de Santiago. If you are interested in joining us for this adventure, mark your calendars and attend this information meeting.

SAINT MICHAEL LADIES' PILGRIMAGE

DIANA NEWTON

ALLISON BOVARD

UNITED ADORATION SONGWRITING RETREAT | August 11 & 12, 2023

On the weekend of August 11th and 12th, fifteen songwriters and music directors from across the US gathered at Saint Michael for a songwriting retreat. Hosted by the Director of Contemporary Music, Justin Brooks, and Vice President of United Adoration, Rachel Wilhelm, the retreat's theme was "Be Still". Our writers were encouraged to craft new songs for the church based on verses throughout scripture dealing with ideas of peace, rest, and renewal. At the conclusion of the retreat, eighteen original songs and Psalm settings were written for the church at large, and they will begin to be sung in congregations across the country, including Saint Michael. As part of the weekend's festivities, critically acclaimed Texas singer-songwriter Doug Burr gave a concert of his Psalms record called "The Shawl" and was nothing short of inspired. It was a truly wonderful weekend and we are excited about the future of Saint Michael as it continues to equip and encourage artists, musicians, and leaders for their callings in their individual churches.

PARISH CALENDAR

WELCOME & ENGAGEMENT

YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY

Springer-Kyle, Director of Engagement rspringer-kyle@saintmichael.org

Rob

For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/engagement.

GREETER MINISTRY

A Greeter is often the first person people encounter on Sundays. Our greeters are here to welcome, inform, and connect people with SMAA ministries, events, and serving opportunities. Greeters also help guide people unfamiliar with our campus to different destinations. Contact Rob to learn more.

GOOD SHEPHERD MINISTRY

The Good Shepherd Ministry (GSM) builds a sense of community within the larger geographical area of SMAA by responding to needs with neighbor helping neighbor. Neighborhood Shepherds are liaisons between the church and parishioners in the community. Neighborhood Shepherds encourage parishioners by caring for, praying for, and helping one another when there is a need or something to celebrate.

WELCOME LIAISON VOLUNTEERS

This is a collaborative and fun opportunity to help SMAA connect with new and returning people. Volunteers intentionally look for and make connections with people who are new or returning. Our desire is to create a kind, relational culture that will help us build a stronger sense of community inside and outside the parish walls. Contact Rob to learn more.

Your twenties and thirties are full of transitions, questions, and milestones, which is why we created the Young Adult Ministry. The Young Adult Ministry is a place to pray, learn, serve, and give in the context of genuine community as you grow in your relationship with God and others. Check out Young Adult formation, social, and serving opportunities at saintmichael.org/youngadults or contact Rob to learn more.

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

YOUNG ADULT FORMATION KICK-OFF BRUNCH AND SUNDAY FORMATION SERIES

10–11 a.m.

Room 224

Kick off our spring formation class with a brunch on Sunday, January 21. Young Adult formation will begin by exploring Theodicy: A defense of the existence of God despite the presence of evil and suffering in the world on Sunday, January 28. Contact Rob to be added to the email list or visit saintmichael.org/youngadults for more info or to RSVP.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21

SAINT MICHAEL 101

Hosted by the Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata and the Rev. Mary Lessmann

12:15–1:30 p.m.

Parlor

If you are new or just visiting and want to learn more about membership, then this is for you! Meet members of our clergy and vestry, and hear about our many ministries, opportunities for involvement, and the exciting future of our parish. Lunch will be served, and childcare will be available with advance registration. Contact Rob with questions or RSVP details.

PRIME TIMERS

This group is primarily an organization for seniors (60+). We meet at Saint Michael on the first Thursday of the month and the "P.T. Cruisers" take trips to area locations on the third Thursday of the month. For more information about monthly meetings or excursions, please contact Ruth Mason, 214-373-7984, or Bonita Frederick, 214-728-6440.

FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH PRIME TIMERS MEETINGS

10:30 a.m.

Coke Room

Reservations required, includes lunch

RSVP by calling Bonita Frederick, 214-728-6440 $12

November 2: AI (Artificial Intelligence) is capturing all the headlines. Come hear an engineer from SMU’sDepartment of Computer Science correct misinformation, introduce the bright future, and discuss accomplishments.

December 7: “Homeless Signs and Their Stories,” led by SMU’s, Willie Baronett. Featuring Christmas Carols by SMAA's Little Angels.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19

P.T. CRUISERS VISIT THE KIMBALL

Bus leaves at 9:30 a.m.

South Entrance

RSVP by Sunday, October 15

We will go visit an old friend—the Kimball Art Museum in Fort Worth. Lunch will be at Ginger Brown’s. For reservations, call Bonita Frederick at 214-728-6440.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

P.T. CRUISERS VISIT HERITAGE VILLAGE

Bus leaves at 9:30 a.m.

South Entrance

RSVP by Sunday, November 12

Step back in history when time moved at a slower, easier pace. See a plantation house, a schoolhouse, and other commercial buildings dating back to the Victorian Age. There is no charge for this trip into Dallas’ past. We will go to Celebration for lunch afterward. For reservations, call Bonita Frederick at 214-728-6440.

CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRY

Meghan Houk, Director of CFM, mhouk@saintmichael.org

Madelyn Ivy, Assistant Director, mivy@saintmichael.org

Beth Igoe, Administrative Assistant, bigoe@saintmichel.org

For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/cfm.

SUNDAYS CHILDREN'S FORMATION CLASSES

10 a.m.

Register for formation classes at saintmichael.org/cfm. Registration for most programs are open throughout the year. CFM’s last Fall Formation class will meet November 19.

GODLY PLAY

Room 203: Godly Play Level I (Ages 3–6)

Room 205: Godly Play Level II (Ages 6–9)

SUNDAYS

EARLY CHILDHOOD MINISTRY

8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Room 14: 0–23 months old

Room 16: 2–3 years old

Our early childhood offerings will help build your child’s faith foundation from the ground up. Children will play enriching games, sing spiritual songs, and hear an age appropriate Bible story. Children can be picked up at any time. Be sure you have the Saint Michael app to check in your children for nursery care!

SUNDAYS

CHILDREN’S CHAPEL

9 a.m. Traditional Service

Saint Michael Chapel

Kids ages 3–8 are invited to join us on Sunday mornings during the 9 a.m. Traditional Service. Children will visit the JOY service for the Bible story and sing songs before returning to their families during the Peace/Announcements. No registration is required.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15 & 22

NATIVITY PAGEANT AUDITIONS

12:30–2 p.m.

Theater

Calling all 3rd–8th graders! Sign up to audition for this year’s Nativity pageant and be part of this wonderful tradition to share the story of Jesus’ birth! (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.)

Godly Play is a Montessori-style curriculum that helps children create personal 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. The Level I class builds a solid faith foundation for children as they move through Godly Play, while the Level II class expands on this foundation with additional Bible story extensions. This class focuses on creating a calm and quiet environment for children who prefer to work independently.

WEAVING GOD’S PROMISES

Room 214: PreK–1st grade (Ages 3–8)

Room 216: 2nd–3rd grade (Ages 7–10)

Children will build upon their understanding of God and God’s relationship with people through meaningful lessons and hands-on time with the Bible’s stories, people, and places. Using storytelling, prayer, and other playbased 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

Room 213: 4th–5th grade (Ages 9–12)

The Bible is a big book that can seem intimidating sometimes, but it is the most important book in your child’s faith development. 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 from cover to cover. 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.

WEDNESDAYS

CHERUB CHOIR

Room 24

2:30–3:30 p.m. SMES students, PreK–2nd grade 4:30–5:30 p.m. PreK–2nd grade saintmichael.org/choristers

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 movement-based games. Participants will sing in worship services on certain Sunday mornings throughout the year. Cherub Choir will not meet on November 22.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28

FAMILY DAY AT THE FARMERS MARKET

9 a.m.–1 p.m.

West Parking Lot

See ad on page 56

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!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3

ADVENT FESTIVAL

9 a.m.—Advent-themed Worship in Saint Michael Chapel 9:30–11 a.m.—Activities in the Garden Cloister, Coke Room, and Parlor

See ad on page 6

Join Saint Michael for one of the parish’s favorite traditions as multiple Saint Michel departments and ministries collaborate for this free community-wide event. The festival will begin with an Advent-themed worship service, including the appearance of a very special guest: St. Nicholas! Following the service, all are invited to enjoy treats and refreshments, participate in a Christmas service project, and engage in a variety of Advent-themed activities.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10

NATIVITY PAGEANT

9 a.m.

Church Livestreamed!

See ad on page 33

Don’t miss out as children in Preschool through 8th grade retell the story of the birth of Jesus.

MISSION & OUTREACH

The Rev. Robin H. Hinkle, Associate for M&O rhink le@saintmichael.org

For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/outreach.

YOUNG ADULTS AT DWELL WITH DIGNITY

Mission & Outreach is partnering with the Young Adult Ministry to support Dwell with Dignity, a local non-profit whose mission is to help families and communities escape poverty, homelessness, and social injustice through design. By creating spaces with new furnishings, paintings, and basic home goods, Dwell with Dignity teams create beautiful homes to launch families into a new life where they can thrive. Volunteers will help with the Thrift Studio fundraiser, refurnish furniture, create art, and help design the space for the families. To sign up or learn more, please contact Christian Basel, cbasel@saintmichael.org.

SEPTEMBER 17 – OCTOBER 15

COAT DRIVE FOR ST. PHILIP’S SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY CENTER

Help us keep our neighbors warm during the cold winter months! In support of this outreach project headed up by the Saint Michael Episcopal School, the church is collecting new coats and jackets in all sizes. There will be collection bins at the main entrances to the building. Last year we collected over 550 coats. This year, our goal is 600 coats to be distributed to community members at the St. Philip’s Christmas Store in December.

OCT. 26, NOV. 9 & 30, AND DEC. 14

BRIGHTER BITES DISTRIBUTION AT FOSTER ELEMENTARY

11 a.m.–Noon — Packing Team

2:45–3:45 p.m. — Distribution Team

3700 Clover Lane, Dallas, 75220

Join this lively team that gathers at Stephen C. Foster Elementary School to pack bags of fresh produce that will be distributed to the families of students at the school. For more info, contact David Boldrick, dbboldrick@yahoo.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29

INFORMATION MEETING FOR AMISTAD, BOLIVIA MISSION TRIPS

Led by Chris King, Executive Director of Amistad

10 a.m.

Parlor

Since 1990, Villa Amistad has provided a loving Christian community to children who have been abused, abandoned, or orphaned. Located in the city of Cochabamba, Bolivia, Villa Amistad utilizes a family model for vulnerable Bolivian children so they can grow to independent adulthood. For more information contact the Rev. Robin Hinkle .

Adult Mission Trip: February 3 – February 10, 2024

The team will spend a week at Amistad sharing friendship with the children and youth. The team will then take a side trip to the famous Bolivian Salt Flats.

Youth Mission Trip: July 29 – August 8, 2024

Registration opens Tuesday, November 14!

The Rev. Robin Hinkle and Samuel Moore will be leading the 2024 Amistad Youth Mission Team. Please attend the information session to learn more about this trip and to get registration information!

SUNDAYS, OCTOBER 29 & NOVEMBER 19

MISSION AND OUTREACH SPOTLIGHT SERIES

10 a.m.

Parlor

Come learn more about our wonderful ministry partners in Dallas and beyond. Each spotlight will highlight one of the ministries of Saint Michael and provide information for you to become of part of their work.

10/29: Amistad, Bolivia Mission Trips

11/19: Tela, Honduras Mission Trips

NOVEMBER 5 – DECEMBER 16

I BELIEVE IN ANGELS

I Believe in Angels (IBIA) is one of the annual partnerships between Saint Michael and Jubilee Park and Community Center. Parishioners sponsor angels (children and seniors) through financial donations and/or by purchasing Christmas gifts, which will be wrapped and donated to families on December 16. Volunteers are needed to sort and wrap gifts, bake cookies, and distribute gifts. Tables will be set up in the church hallways on Sundays at which parishioners can select angels and make donations. For more information, contact Zoe Hart, ZHart@me.com, or Heather Lorch, helorch@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

FOSTER ELEMENTARY FALL FESTIVAL

3–6:30 p.m.

Stephen C. Foster Elementary School

Foster Elementary School is holding its annual Fall Festival which will include all sort of games, food and fun for the students and families. Saint Michael volunteers will help host tables for food and games planned by each of the classes for this lively event.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

JUBILEE PARK AND COMMUNITY CENTER

SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Jubilee Park and Community Center: 907 Bank St., Dallas

Join our team as we host a beautiful holiday luncheon for the seniors at Jubilee. Volunteers are needed to decorate and serve on the day of the luncheon (two seatings). We also need people to join our tradition of baking holiday breads for the guests to take home. For more information, contact the luncheon co-chairs Jeanne Snead, gdommy@gmail.com, and Nancy Skochdopole, skochdopole@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 17

HEART OF GIVING

As a meaningful complement to Christmas gifts, Heart of Giving is a thoughtful way to spread the spirit of the season by purchasing tax-deductible cards that you can share with family and friends. Each card describes how your gift provides tangible benefits for Mission and Outreach initiatives. Participate online or by visiting our tables in the church hallways on Sundays. The 2023 beneficiaries:

• Amistad Bolivia Youth Houses: therapeutic houses for the youth of Amistad experiencing the effects of deep trauma and other mental health issues

• Tela Honduras Mission: the mission team provides flouride and Bible Study resources to the children in the barrios of Tela and the students of Espiritu Santos Episcopal School

NOVEMBER 26–JANUARY 7

NORTH DALLAS SHARED MINISTRIES ADVENT FOOD DRIVE

See the ad on page 30

Grocery bags with the Advent calendar will be available at church entrances on November 26. Please participate in the 24-day Advent journey and return food to the South entrance the first week of January. Parishioners will have the opportunity to learn about food insecurity, pray for the people impacted by hunger, and serve North Dallas Shared Ministries while counting down the days until Christmas.

DECEMBER 3 – DECEMBER 19

CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE AT FOSTER ELEMENTARY

This year we will be sharing Christmas joy with our friends at Stephen C. Foster Elementary through our first annual toy drive for the students grades PreK – 6th grade! We hope all parishioners will consider donating new toys (cost limit $35) toward our goal of collecting 500 toys. Families are especially encouraged to shop together so our young members may bring a new toy to share. This drive is a joint effort of Mission and Outreach, Children and Family Ministries, and Saint Michael Episcopal School. Collection boxes will be placed in classrooms and at the church entrances.

FEBRUARY 17 – 24, 2024

TELA, HONDURAS MISSION TRIP

Saint Michael will send a team to Tela, Honduras in February 2024 as we continue our longtime work in this community. The team provides fluoride treatments for children and vision screenings and reading glasses for seniors. The team also leads Christian Education in the barrios of Tela and at Espiritu Santos Episcopal School. The team may also do painting and/or construction projects. For more information, please contact George Baldwin at gbinvest@swbell.net

Christmas Plate Offerings

Each year at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, as part of our Christmas celebrations, we have a lovely tradition of giving 100% of our undesignated offerings to outreach projects supported by our parish. This year the Mission and Outreach Committee has chosen to honor seniors in our local community. Our Christmas Offering Plate will be shared by the following ministries:

Support for seniors: food, medical care, dental care, rental assistance and utility assistance to local seniors.

Nurses Association (VNA) Palliative Care

Providing spiritual and medical support at end of life for clients in need.

For these and other opportunities to serve, please contact the Rev. Robin Hinkle, rhinkle@saintmichael.org or scan the QR code to fill out an interest form!

Helps ensure that older adults in nursing homes live out their lives with respect in a safe environment.

North Dallas Shared Ministries

Visiting

The Senior Source Ombudsman Program

SUNDAYS

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 upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/youth.

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL FORMATION

10 – 10:50 a.m.

Youth Center

Join us each week as we gather together over donuts and bible study and discuss how God is moving in our lives. Middle schoolers meet in the Orange Room and high schoolers meet in the Blue Room.

SUNDAYS CONFIRMATION

10 – 10:50 a.m.

Youth Center

This class is for our 8th grade students who wish to deepen their commitment to their faith in preparation for confirmation in the fall of 2024. The class focuses on the teachings and traditions of the episcopal church, as well as biblical literacy and faith practices.

WEDNESDAYS

YOUTH GROUP

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Youth Center

Each Wednesday 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 your students can learn, grow, and connect with their friends throughout the school year.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25

HALLOWEEN PARTY

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Youth Center

It’s spooky season! Come in your best costume and bring a friend for a spook-tacular night of food and games!

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12

CONFIRMATION SUNDAY

2 p.m. Church

Join us as we gather with the Bishop to celebrate our 2022–2023 Confirmation Class. A reception will follow the service.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9

DALLAS STARS GAME

2 – 6 p.m. Meet in the West Lot

Come cheer on the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center! Transportation to the game will be provided to and from Saint Michael. To register for this event, please visit saintmichael.org/youth.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13

CHRISTMAS PARTY AND SERVICE PROJECT

6:30 – 8 p.m. Youth Center

Wear your tackiest Christmas sweater and join the youth as we celebrate with one another and help to make the season bright, wrapping Christmas presents for VNA Meals on Wheels clients.

JANUARY 12 – 15, 2024

YOUTH SKI TRIP

Registration closes Friday, October 20

The Saint Michael Youth are hitting the slopes in Winter Park, CO! For more information and pricing for this trip, please visit saintmichael.org/youth

ADULTS

Dr. Tim M. Smith, Director of Formation

tsmith@saintmichael.org

Beth Igoe, Assistant, bigoe@saintmichael.org

For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/adults

SUNDAYS UPCOMING ADULT FORMATION CLASSES

10 a.m.

Now – November 19

The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey

Led by the Rev. Kenneth H. Brannon

Saint Michael Chapel

Philip Yancey asks readers to reconsider what they know about Jesus. While focusing on biblical texts, Yancey believes that we can learn about Jesus by considering how He’s interpreted across artistic mediums. Looking at Jesus through various lenses brings Him to life and makes Him multidimensional. In this study, you’ll gain a new and deeper perspective on Jesus, His ministry and His teachings.

October 1 – November 19

Class for Parents: The Tech-Wise Family

Led by Erin Osborne and the Rev. Greg Pickens

Theater

Making conscientious choices about technology in our families is about developing wisdom, character, and courage in the way we use digital media. The choices we make about technology have consequences we may never have considered. Through this series, we’ll consider who you want to be as a family and how your use of technology can move you closer or farther away from that goal.

October 8 – November 19

The Fifth Gospel: The Land and the Bible

Led by Dr. Tim Smith

Coke Room

The land of Israel dictates much of the life and faith of those who lived there. Almost all the events in the life of Jesus cannot be fully understood without a knowledge of the places where they occurred. You will be introduced to the land of the Bible, how it influences the text and the life and faith of those in God’s story, and be equipped to see those influences as you read and seek to understand Scripture.

November 26 – December 17

Advent Study: The Gift of the Nutcracker

Led by Clergy and Staff

Saint Michael Chapel

In The Gift of the Nutcracker, author and pastor Matt Rawle takes a look at this Christmas classic in a new way—through the lens of faith. As he explores the story, he helps us understand God’s greatest gift of the Christ child, and the kingdom Christ came to establish. Please join us as a part of your Advent and Christmas journey.

January 7 – January 28

S.H.A.P.E. – Finding and Fulfilling Your Unique Purpose in Life

Led by Clergy and Staff Room 217

God made you marvelously unique for a reason. In this course, you’ll tap into what makes you who you are by identifying your S.H.A.P.E.—your passions, talents, experiences, temperament, and spiritual gifts. You'll discover the path to a life of unimagined purpose, impact, and fulfillment. It’ll change the way you look at yourself, how you live your life, and bring confidence, freedom, clarity, and significance that can only come from your Creator.

January 7 – February 11

Love and Logic: Build Healthy Relationships with Kids While Setting Firm, Loving Limits

Led by Catherine Marrs, MA in Occupational Therapy & Counseling Theater

Love and Logic makes the practice of raising and teaching kids fun and practical. Imagine a calmer, happier home that's free from power struggles, yelling, and nagging, and filled with joy and mutual respect. Love and Logic will help you raise strong, happy, responsible kids who are kinder, confident, respectful, resilient, focused, motivated, and better decision makers.

January 7 – March 24

Questions of Faith

Led by SMAA Clergy and Professor Jaime Clary-Soles Saint Michael Chapel

Is there only one path to God? Where is God in the mess of this world? How can I believe in science and creation? How can a good God allow suffering and evil? If you have asked these questions and others, you are not alone. Questions and doubts can actually be the catalyst to search for answers, leading to a renewed confidence in our beliefs. Your questions and doubts can become an invitation to dig deeper into your faith and draw closer to God.

MONDAYS UNENDING CONVERSATION GROUP

Led by Linda Westerburg and Nancy West

9:30 – 11 a.m.

Coke Room

Do you have questions of faith? A class of inquisitive women seeking to learn more about their faith, emerging church ideas, and new ways of looking at Christianity and following Christ. Contact Linda, lindawesterburg@gmail.com, or Nancy, nancyjw@me.com, with questions.

FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH WOMEN'S CURSILLO GROUP

Led by Maria D'Antoni

11 a.m. – Noon

Zoom

This group is open to all women who have completed a Cursillo weekend, whose goal is to equip and inspire people to live out their faith. For more information, please contact Maria D'Antoni, maria@dantonipartners.com

2ND AND 4TH MONDAYS OF THE MONTH WOMEN WORD WORK

Led by Blair Shaw, Diane McGrath and Kathy Hayes

6:30 – 7:45 p.m.

Room 106

Are you a working woman? Are you craving relational and spiritual connection? Then this is the perfect group for you! Drop in when you can as we share fellowship, study and prayer. Books are chosen by the group during the year. There is no preparation needed. For more information, contact Kathy Hayes, khayes@smu.edu.

TUESDAYS GOSPEL OF JOHN BIBLE STUDY

Led by Dr. Tim Smith

1 – 2 p.m OR 6 – 7 p.m.

Room 224 or Zoom

The Gospel of John claims to be an eyewitness account, shares stories of Jesus found nowhere else, and offers a different chronology of Jesus’ ministry. This makes the reading and study of John’s Gospel unique, powerful and life-giving! This in-depth, verse by verse study utilizing the lenses of the first century historical, geographical, cultural, literary, social, and religious context, opens an entirely new world of understanding scripture! This fall, we will be studying John chapters 5–8. For more information, please contact Tim

TUESDAYS BROWN BAG BIBLE STUDY

Led by Peggy Carr

11 a.m. – Noon

Room 104

Women of all ages are invited to attend as we study different books of the Bible, share strengths and weaknesses, and make friends. We recommend 30-40 minutes of preparation for each class. For questions or the Zoom link, please contact Peggy Carr, peggy.carr@sbcglobal.net.

TUESDAYS

SAINT MICHAEL READER’S BOOK CLUB

Led by Ann Mills

6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Parlor

Women of all ages are invited to attend as we read and discuss different books. For questions or the Zoom link, please contact Ann Mills, acmills3225@gmail.com.

The Gospel of Rector’s Bible Study

WEDNESDAYS RECTOR'S BIBLE STUDY: THE GOSPEL OF JOHN

Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. | Saint Michael Chapel

Beginning Wednesday, September 20!

Led by Chris Girata, Rector

10 a.m.

Join

Saint Michael Chapel

Saintmichael.org/RBS

WEDNESDAYS IMAGING THE WORD BIBLE STUDY

Led by Karen Wiley

9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Chapel Conference Room and Zoom

Over the past two years, RBS has focused on a fascinating character study of Moses and David. Together, Moses and David provide a foundation upon which the promise of a Messianic King is understood. After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, his disciples sought to understand him within the context of the Jewish promise of a Messiah, as well as Jesus’ call to spread his message beyond the Jewish community. Now that we have created a sure foundation of the prophet and the king, we shift to study the most important figure in our history, the Christ.

Since the 4th century, congregations have been guided by the lectionary's imaginative and disciplined journey through the Bible. Using readings, the liturgy, music, colors, movements, and celebrations of the church year, the Bible and the arts are brought together. 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, kkwiley@sbcglobal.net.

Although not required, this year’s companion book will be John by N.T. Wright and is available in the Saint Michael Book Shop. For more information about the Rector’s Bible Study or to be added to our email list, please email Bhav Masih at bmasih@saintmichael.org.

THURSDAYS COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY: FOOD, DRINK, OR LACK

Led by Elizabeth Lang and Brady Millican

9:30 a.m.

Room 222

This study will be a survey of food and drink in biblical literature including feasts, honey, bread, grapes, famine, and much more. We’ll also look for how food and issues in the narratives or Psalms relate to what is happening in participant’s lives or contemporary culture. For more information, contact Dr. Elizabeth Lang, langelizabeth66@gmail.com.

THURSDAYS, OCTOBER 12–DECEMBER 7

AGING AND FULFILLING OUR SPIRITUAL PURPOSE: FINISHING WELL

Led by Chick Deegan and Mary Ann Webster

10 a.m. – Noon

Parlor

Carol Osborne writes, “Admittedly, establishing and maintaining both a hopeful and realistic vision of the aging process...challenges the best of us.” We will explore how to thrive with purpose, and leave a legacy that reflects our God-given gifts. Using Bible verses, quotes from wise elders, and poetry, our time together will include discussion and reflection. For more information, please contact Chick Deegan, deeganchicke@aol.com

THURSDAYS, NOVEMBER 2 – DECEMBER 21

LECTIO DIVINA

Led by Nancy Somodevilla

2 – 3 p.m.

Parlor and via Zoom

We spend the first 20 minutes on centering prayer and the remaining time is spent meditating, and focused on scripture, poetry, prose, a painting—something that will move us closer to the Holy and to each other.

THURSDAYS

BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP (WOMEN)

9:15 – 10:30 a.m.

Room 104, 106, and Saint Michael Chapel

Women around the world have the opportunity to study the Bible together. Group members spend time in personal Bible study during the week with questions that prompt deeper thought. We will then meet for small-group discussion around what we’ve read.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 ADVENT RETREAT

Led by the Rev. Barkley Thompson

9 a.m. – Noon

Saint Michael Chapel

Cost: $10

The Advent Retreat will be facilitated by author and blogger the Reverend Barkley Thompson, rector of Saint Mark's Episcopal Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. The retreat will focus on Barkley's new book, How Can We Know the Way? Reflections on Belief, Salvation, and Eternal Life. In the preface he writes, "For those for whom questions of belief, salvation, and eternal life have seemed too difficult to explore; for those who have been abused by the answers of a punitive and otherworldly Christianity; and for those just now beginning to seek a deeper meaning to life, I pray this book is a helpmate." Scan the QR code to sign up!

PASTORAL CARE

The Rev. Greg Pickens, Associate for PC gpickens@saintmichael.org

Katherine Bowen, Assistant kbowen@saintmichael.org

For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/pastoralcare .

ANGEL FOOD COOKS

Angel Food Cooks is a ministry made up of volunteers who are available to provide a delicious meal to parishioners in need. Those receiving meals are individuals and families of Saint Michael who may be going through a challenging time due to a recent hospitalization, ongoing illness, or the birth of a child. If you are interested in being an Angel Food Cook, please contact Katherine Bowen or Gay Rekerdres, gayrek@sbcglobal.net, with questions.

CARD MINISTRY

The Card Ministry stays in touch with parishioners by sending cards of sympathy, celebration of birthdays and holidays, and congratulations to the precious new arrivals. Contact Pat Moore, dwpjmoore@yahoo.com, Julie Butterworth, julie.w.butterworth@gmail.com, Mary Ruth Perkins, perkinsmaryruth@gmail.com, or Sandra Hughes, sjhughes411@gmail.com, with questions.

Christmas Flower Memorials

FRIENDS IN CHRIST

The Friends in Christ Ministry reestablishes ties with parishioners who, for various reasons, are unable to attend church but wish to stay in touch with the life of our parish. A cadre of visitor Friends in Christ has been formed and makes visits offering friendship and a listening ear to those they visit. Please contact Greg with questions.

INTERCESSORY PRAYER MINISTRY (DAILY)

The Daily Intercessory Prayer Ministry offers daily prayers from online requests (SaintMichael.org/prayer-requests) or through the Pastoral Care Ministries office. All prayer requests are kept in strict confidence. Intercessors pray at home or in the Bishop Moore Chapel. Contact Terry Demler, tsdemler@gmail.com, with questions.

LAY EUCHARISTIC VISITORS

Lay Eucharistic Visitors are teams of trained parishioners who take the bread and wine, directly from the church altar to parishioners who cannot be in church. They are served in the hospital, at home, or in assisted living facilities. This is a fulfilling ministry for people of all ages and a bonding experience for families serving together. For questions, contact Charlie Smith, jsmithcpa@earthlink.net

Honor a loved one by making a Christmas Flower Memorial donation. Make your donation today!

RECOVERY ADVOCATES

Recovery Advocates is made up of volunteers who work to provide for the spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being of those who experience substance abuse or other addictions. Contact this ministry for any help in navigating the recovery community. Please contact Greg with questions.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

With Dr. Elizabeth Lang or the Rev. Dr. Hiltrude Nusser-Telfer Spiritual direction provides guidance and companionship for one who is seeking to deepen their faith. It is a safe space that opens 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 or the Rev. Dr. Hiltrude Nusser-Telfer, hnussertelfer@aol.com.

STEPHEN MINISTRIES

Stephen Ministries equip lay persons to provide confidential, Christian, one-on-one care to anyone in our community. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, consider requesting a Stephen Minister. For more information, go to stephenministries.org , contact Greg or Mary Kardell, mary.kardell@sbcglobal.net .

TOUCH BASE PHONE MINISTRY

Touch Base Phone Ministry is a voice at the other end of the telephone representing the parish of Saint Michael, its cler-

gy, and staff. This caring voice checks on those who have had a recent death; and checks on those who are homebound. Contact Liz Wheelan, LizWico@aol.com, with questions.

EVERY MONDAY CARE GIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Led by Gayl Braymer

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Parlor

Caregiving for 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.

FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH WOMEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Led by Sue Patton and Charlie Stobaugh

1:45 – 3 p.m.

Parlor

The Women’s Cancer Support Group is a long-term support system for information, referrals, feedback, and a feeling of safety, shared by other women who have experienced cancer and from those who are in the fight right now. Contact Sue Patton, pattons@sbcglobal.net , or Charlie Stobaugh, charlie@stobaugh.net , with questions.

FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

PRAYER SHAWL KNITTING

Led by Peggy Carr

1 – 3 p.m.

Room 103

MINISTRY

To date, 2,842 shawls have been knitted and distributed, extending the love of our parish to those who are hurting or ill. Each shawl is tagged with a label that identifies it as being "knit with love at Saint Michael," a healing prayer is added, and they are blessed by the clergy and congregation prior to distribution. Join us for camaraderie, prayers, and the joy of knitting a message of love. Contact Peggy Carr, peggy.carr@sbcglobal.net , with questions.

SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH G.R.A.S.P.

DALLAS CHAPTER

Grief Recovery After Substance Passing

6:30 p.m.

Parlor

GRASP was created to offer understanding, compassion, and support for those who have lost someone they love

through addiction and overdose. Anyone who has lost a loved one through substance use knows that society treats this loss differently than a death from any other cause. Anyone who wants to find a safe place to express their concern, grief, and walk toward understanding and grief recovery from the passing of a loved one from substance death, is welcome. For more information see grasphelp.org or contact Paula Calise, paula@linkedexec.com, with questions.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3

BLOOD DRIVE

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Theater

Dallas is facing a severe blood shortage and needs blood donors to give to avoid delays in lifesaving medical care for patients. Driver’s license or ARC card/app required to donate. Contact Dianne Boyd, dboyd@saintmichael.org , to reserve a time or with questions.

WEDNESDAYS, JAN 10 – FEB 14, 2024

GRACEFUL HEALING: NAVIGATING GRIEF WITH HOPE

Led by the Rev. Christian Basel

10 – 11:30 a.m.

Room 226 / Orange Room (Youth Center)

Loss touches all of us in different ways, but you do not have to walk this journey alone. Graceful Healing is a six-week grief and support ministry at Saint Michael 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 the Rev. Christian Basel, cbasel@saintmichael.org , to RSVP or with any questions.

SUNDAYS, JAN 21 & 28 AND FEB 4 & 11, 2024

PRE-MARRIAGE CLASS

10 a.m.

Room 103

The pre-marriage class series is offered to prepare couples for marriage and their life together. Contact Tammy Hale, thale@saintmichael.org , to register or to go over the details of scheduling a wedding at Saint Michael.

WORSHIP, LITURGY, & MUSIC

The Rev. Dr. Andrew Grosso Senior Associate for Worship and Discipleship agrosso@saintmichael.org

Haley Dettra, Head Sacristan, hdettra@saintmichael.org

Tammy Hale, Assistant for Worship & Liturgy thale@saintmichael.org

Dianne Boyd, Coordinator for Worship Media dboyd@saintmichael.org

Justin Brooks, Director of Contemporary Music jbrooks@saintmichael.org

Stephen Burk, Interim Director of Music and Organist sburk@saintmichael.org

Robert August, Associate Director of Music and Organist raugust@saintmichael.org

For more information, to see a comprehensive listing of events, or to see how upcoming construction on our campus may impact these offerings, please visit saintmichael.org/worship.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15

IN-PERSON CHORAL COMPLINE

8 p.m.

Church

See ad on page 31

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22

FALL PARISH MEETING

10:15 a.m.

Church

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29

SAINT MICHAEL PRESENTS CONCERT: ENSEMBLE FANTASMI

7 p.m.

Church

saintmichael.org/fantasmi

See ad on the inside cover

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5

ALL SOULS EVENSONG

4 p.m.

Church

Incense will be in use during this service

Please join us for this beautiful, annual service in which we remember those whom we love but see no more.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12

VETERANS DAY SERVICE

5:30 p.m.—Worship Service in the Church

6:30 p.m.—Reception in the Garden Cloister

See ad on page 7

This event is open to the entire community, so bring your friends and neighbors and join us in saying "Thank you!" to our Veterans for their incredible service. 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. All veterans are invited to fall in line behind their branch’s flag and join us at the altar for our annual group photo.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3

ADVENT LESSONS & CAROLS

4 p.m. Church

See ad on page 53

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10

NATIVITY PAGEANT

9 a.m.

Church

See ad on page 33

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17

CHRISTMAS LESSONS & CAROLS

4 p.m.

Church

Incense will be in use during this service

See ad on page 53

JANUARY 5, 2024

EVE OF EPIPHANY & BURNING OF THE GREENS

6 p.m.

Church and Garden Cloister

JANUARY 21, 2024

EPIPHANY LESSONS & CAROLS

4 p.m. Church

See ad on page 53

FEBRUARY 4, 2024

IN-PERSON CHORAL COMPLINE

8 p.m. Church

Incense will be in use during this service

See ad on page 31

C HRI STMA S

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24

THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

9 AM

Holy Eucharist Rite I, Saint Michael Chapel

CHRISTMAS EVE

11 AM Joy Service, Church

1 PM Jazz Service, Church

3 PM

Holy Eucharist Rite II, Church

Holy Eucharist Rite II, Saint Michael Chapel

Contemporary, Parish Hall

5 PM

Holy Eucharist Rite II, Church

Holy Eucharist Rite II, Saint Michael Chapel

Contemporary, Parish Hall

10:30 PM Holy Eucharist Rite I, Church Incense will be in use

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25

CHRISTMAS DAY

10 AM

Holy Eucharist Rite II

Saint Michael Chapel

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

9 AM Holy Eucharist Rite II, Church

11 AM Contemporary, Church

SAINTMICHAEL.ORG/CHRISTMASEVE

MEN OF SAINT MICHAEL

Dr. Tim M. Smith, Director of Formation tsmith@saintmichael.org

Beth Igoe, Assistant, bigoe@saintmichael.org

WEDNESDAYS

THE WEDNESDAY MEN’S BOOK STUDY

7 – 8 a.m.

Room 103

What does it take to follow Jesus? Author Steve Connor challenges you to become a rugged disciple. What does it mean by rugged? Dr. Angela Duckworth, in her groundbreaking Ted Talk, discovered that the most successful people (students, soldiers, teachers, and athletes) have “grit.” In his book Rugged Discipleship, Steve challenges Christians to be gritty, to be rugged! Rugged Christians are “obedient, courageous, resilient, conscientious, possess humility and endurance, and strive for excellence.” Join us for breakfast tacos, coffee, conversation, and some rugged discipleship training as we begin reading and discussing Rugged Discipleship on January 31. For questions, please contact Tim Smith

THURSDAYS

MEN’S LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY

Led by David Loomis

7 – 8 a.m.

Zoom

This men’s 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. Lessons and commentary are emailed early each week to enable participants to familiarize themselves with the material. Several participants rotate facilitation of the discussion of the lessons and other available information on the subject. You’ll be challenged and encouraged in your faith! For questions or the Zoom link, please contact David Loomis, dlloomis@sbcglobal.net.

THURSDAYS A MEN’S BIBLE STUDY

Led by Phil Ritter and others

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Room 106

This Bible study is based on the Lectionary readings for the coming Sunday and meets throughout the year. Advance preparation is not required. For questions, please contact Phil Ritter, pjritter@mac.com

FIRST AND THIRD SATURDAYS OF THE MONTH

THE BROTHERHOOD OF SAINT ANDREW

Led by Kyle Moore and Barry Crossman

8:30 – 10 a.m.

Room 106

The Brotherhood of Saint Andrew seeks to bring men and youth to Jesus through the daily practice of prayer, Bible study, and service, including serving meals to those in need and being greeters at the Saint Michael's Farmers Market. They also support Patriot Paws - Service Dogs for Disabled Veterans through their annual charity golf tournament. This fall, they are reading and discussing, God is a Man of War: The Problem of Violence in the Old Testament by Stephen De Young. In January, we will discuss, A Pilgrimage to Eternity: From Canterbury to Rome in Search of Faith by Timothy Egan. For more information, please email Barry Crossman, bcrossman2@earthlink.net, or call 214-357-4939.

MEN WITH PURPOSE SPEAKER SERIES

With Steve Connor, Sports Outreach International

$30

Steve Connor is the President/CEO of Sports Outreach International, a nonprofit that pioneers sports ministry around the world. Steve’s passion is to help grow global sustainable Christian organizations that impact their communities. An NAIA two-time all American with a “short and un-illustrious” career with the historic Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams, he has also coached, and been a chaplain on every level of sport and in multiple countries. He is a frequent speaker bringing his unique storytelling style to various audiences from Nascar’s Joe Gibbs Racing to members of the British Royal Family. He has published ten books, including Rugged Discipleship which the Wednesday Men’s Book Study will be reading and discussing this spring. Scan the QR code to sign up!

WOMEN OF SAINT MICHAEL

Adele Broughton, President

abroughton6803@gmail.com

To see the full listing of Women of Saint Michael events, please visit saintmichael.org/women .

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25

COLLECTING VISUAL AND DECORATIVE ARTS: BEHIND THE SCENES AT CHRISTIE’S

With Capera Ryan, Deputy Chairman of Christie’s Americas

11:30 a.m.

Parish Hall

Join us to learn about the global art business with Capera Ryan, Deputy Chairman at Christie's Auction House and Saint Michael parishioner. Capera will share behind-thescenes stories of bringing collections to auction as well as offer tips on how to start or maintain our own art collections.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9

PARISH PARTY KICKOFF: WINE & WHISKEY GATHERING PARTY

6 – 8 p.m.

At the home of Erin Osborne & Vic Shmerbeck Donated bottles will be part of the Wine and Whiskey Pull at the Parish Party.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT THE EXCHANGE

5 – 7 p.m.

5 Highland Park Village

Enjoy an evening of fellowship and fun at St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange in Highland Park Village. The store will be decked out for Christmas and yes, you can shop! Exchange proceeds help fund the Women of Saint Michael Gifts Committee.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024

EXPLORING LETTERS IN LITERARY CLASSICS: A DEEP DIVE INTO PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Featuring Barbara Heller, author, award-winning director of short films, and manager of film and television locations

Special appearance by The Men of Nehemiah

11:30 a.m.

Church

English High Tea following in the Parlor

While reading Pride and Prejudice for the millionth time, Barbara Heller had a sudden desire to hold the actual letters in the book in her hand. Her quest to possess the letters, as though written in the character’s own hand, folded with historical accuracy and properly postmarked, took her on a journey that only deepened her respect for Austen’s genius and resulted in a curated version of the novel where readers pull out a facsimile of each of the 19 letters. Barbara will share images from her research into early 19th century letter writing, discuss the process of selecting calligraphers, and explain the intricacies of the Regency postal system. It’s a new way to connect with a favorite book!

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024

PARISH PARTY 2024: A WORK OF HEART

7 – 11 p.m.

Arts District Mansion, 2101 Ross Avenue

See ad on the inside cover

On behalf of the Women of Saint Michael, it is our pleasure to invite you to the 2024 Parish Party. After a five-year pause, we believe this is a pivotal time to bring our congregation together. In concert with this year’s theme, “Work of Heart,” our event will be held at the historic Arts District Mansion (formerly Belo)! Please join us for this exceptional evening that will include a delicious dinner, live band, and dancing. This year's celebration will include the ever-popular wine and whiskey pull as well as spectacular auctions, including Live and Big Board.

The Parish Party, which began in 1984, is not only Saint Michael's most festive event, it also raises funds for the Women of Saint Michael Gifts Committee, which provides grants to agencies focused on solving poverty issues throughout our community and beyond. Each year the Gifts Committee thoroughly reviews and selects nonprofit agencies to receive grants for their food, clothing, and shelter needs. In 2023, more than $600,000 was distributed to seventy-one agencies.

Join one of our choirs!

The music ministry at Saint Michael provides adults, youth, and children with opportunities to share their musical gifts and provide musical leadership during sung worship services.

ADULT CHOIRS

The Saint Michael Choir is the church's adult choir. They rehearse on Wednesday evenings from 7 – 9 p.m. and sing for the 9 a.m. Sunday service, plus special services such as Choral Evensong, Veterans Day, Holy Week services, and Advent and Christmas Lessons & Carols. Singers called to this ministry should have basic music literacy skills. Adult volunteers are supported by a group of professional staff singers in each section that enable the ensemble to sing a wide variety of music from many choral styles and traditions.

CHORISTERS

Saint Michael Choristers is an engaging, comprehensive music education program for children and youth in 3rd grade through high school. Choristers receive training in singing skills, music theory and music history. They sing both as a separate treble ensemble and are regularly integrated with the Saint Michael Choir (adults) so that they can fully take part in helping lead music during worship services. Scan the QR code to sign up!

CHERUB CHOIR

The Saint Michael Cherub Choir is a fun music exploration time for younger children. Kids are taught the basics of healthy singing, music literacy, and liturgical formation through songs, Bible stories, and crafts. Cherub Choir is for children who are pre-K through 2nd grade. Two sessions are offered each week. The first session is particularly designed for pre-K and kindergarteners and the second session is primarily for kindergarteners through 2nd graders, but your child is welcome at whichever session is most convenient for your family’s schedule. Children who participate in Cherub Choir quickly develop a love for singing and the skills needed to be successful in Saint Michael Choristers and beyond. Scan the QR code to sign up!

For more information about any of our choirs, contact Catherine Hinkley, Administrative Assistant to Music at: chinkley@saintmichael.org or 214-363-5471 x226.

CHORISTER CAMP | August 2023

Harmonious moments by the lake! Our talented Choristers embarked on an unforgettable musical getaway at Camp All Saints on Lake Texoma last weekend! From soulful melodies to thrilling zip line adventures, the weekend was a symphony of laughter, learning, and endless joy.

STAFF ARRIVALS

Please join us in welcoming our newest Saint Michael staff members!

MEREDITH TURNER Director of Communications

We are excited to welcome Meredith Turner as the new Director of Communications! Meredith joins us from Church of the Incarnation where she was a key player on the communications team, building and implementing strategic marketing strategies. She brings direct marketing and communications experience working for a number of organizations, including the Dallas Regional Chamber, AT&T, Texas Medical Association in Austin, and National Republican Congressional Committee in Washington, DC. Meredith has a passion for connecting parishioners and visitors into the life of the church and looks forward to helping create experiences for them to grow together in their faith. Married at Saint Michael, Meredith and her husband Mike hold a special place in their hearts for this church. They are blessed with three young boys, Graham, Will, and Thomas and their never-ending energy.

MARTHA HELLMAN BOGDON

Director of Stewardship

Please join us in welcoming Martha Hellman Bogdon to Saint Michael! Martha brings a strong background in local fundraising, talent recruitment, and strategic partnerships, most recently serving as the Major Gifts Officer for Teach For America Dallas-Fort Worth. In this role, she helped create local fundraising strategy and raise over $5 million annually, to support recruitment and training of teachers for Dallas area public schools. Prior to her work at Teach For America, Martha led the instructional hiring team for Uplift Education, DFW’s largest public charter school network. Martha was born in Dallas but grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. She returned to Dallas after graduating from Vanderbilt University. She is an active member of the Junior League of Dallas, where she sits on the Leadership Council. Martha and her husband live in the Swiss Avenue Historic District with their corgi. Martha enjoys visiting art museums, traveling, and spending time with family, especially her two nephews.

DEPARTURES

Kirstin Ivy has left her position as Mission and Outreach Coordinator. She has taken a teaching position at a school five minutes from her home. While we are sad to see her go, we are happy she will be closer to her children. Please join us in wishing Kirstin all the best!

CHARLIE EIDELMAN Organ Scholar

We are delighted to welcome Charles Eidelman as our new Organ Scholar! Charles, native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, began his musical career at the Music Institute of Chicago where he studied piano and music theory with Kate Nir for seven years. In Chicago, he was recognized by the North Shore Music Teachers Association, Chicago Area Music Teachers Association, and the Society of American Musicians for numerous piano performances. In Ann Arbor, he studied piano with Dr. Christopher Harding at The University of Michigan and with Randall Faber at the Faber Piano Institute. His piano performances have brought him around the country, including for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Carnegie Hall. As an organist, he has performed in both sacred and secular settings throughout Michigan and abroad in France and Germany. Charles is pursuing a Bachelor of Music at Southern Methodist University for organ with Stefan Engels and George Baker. Besides music, Charles is an expert freshwater angler and home cook specializing in Sichuan Chinese Cuisine.

BJ CLARK Assistant to Operations

The Operations team is excited to announce that BJ Clark is the new Assistant to Operations! BJ holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wyoming. She brings with her over 10 years of administrative experience in different industries and has a passion for serving others. She is looking forward to joining Saint Michael and working with such a dedicated team whose core values match her own. BJ has recently moved to Texas from Casper, Wyoming with her furry friend, Iris, and is excited about finding out all the cool things to do in this area. Please join us in welcoming BJ to the Saint Michael staff!

JORDAN LAWTON Assistant to Advancement

We are thrilled to welcome Jordan Alexis Lawton to our Advancement team! Jordan is an alum of the University of North Texas where she received her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in human services and graduated Summa Cum Laude. She’s currently pursuing her M.S. in Educational Psychology from her alma mater. She started as an intern for nonprofit organizations and congressional campaigns in Dallas during high school and undergrad. She then went on to work in the fund development sector of nonprofits after graduating. She has a passion for doing work that benefits our Dallas community. She looks forward to bringing her skills and passion to the Advancement team at Saint Michael. Jordan’s hobbies involve performing arts activities such as live theatre. She’s currently a professional blogger and poet as well.

Erin Osborne has left her position as Engagement Coordinator to spend more time with her family. Erin was instrumental in programming our Young Adult Ministry and leading a Bible study for SMES parents. You will still see Erin and her husband, Vic, in their many volunteer roles in our parish ministries.

December 3

ADVENT LESSONS & CAROLS

4 p.m. in the Church

Begin the Advent Season with this beloved service of readings, music, and processions led by the Saint Michael Choir.

SaintMichael.org/AdventLC

December 17

CHRISTMAS LESSONS & CAROLS

4 p.m. in the Church

As we prepare for Christmas and the birth of Christ, join us for this beloved and beautiful service, featuring Lessons and Carols sung by our Saint Michael Choristers and Saint Michael Choir.

SaintMichael.org/ChristmasLC

January 21

EPIPHANY LESSONS & CAROLS

4 p.m. in the Church

A special evening of music and lesson readings: the Contemporary and Traditional music departments will combine to lead the singing of Epiphany hymns and original arrangements to observe the Light of the World given to all.

SaintMichael.org/EpiphanyLC

NEW YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY LAUNCHES

Read about our new ministry group specifically designed for young adults and young couples in their 20's and 30's!

By Rob Springer-Kyle, Director of Engagement

Twenties and thirties are typically full of transitions, questions, and milestones, which is why the Engagement Ministry, in collaboration with a diverse and fantastic group of young adults, created the Saint Michael Young Adult Ministry. This ministry is a place to pray, learn, serve, and give in the context of genuine community as young adults grow in their relationship with God and others at Saint Michael.

This was a collaborative and prayerful endeavor led by the Engagement Ministry in partnership with parishioners, clergy, staff and an enthusiastic group of young adults and young couples. An extraordinarily successful Summer Meeting & Mentoring Dinner Series in late May (with a collective total of over 120 young adults and young couples) hosted in three different parishioner homes over three weeks in the Greenway Park neighborhood,

led to more intentional conversations with Engagement, Pastoral Care, Formation, Mission & Outreach, parishioners, clergy, and vestry members.

Taking a quick look back to my first few months as Engagement Director at Saint Michael (in the Summer of 2022), I began to meet young adults and young couples on Sundays and I would frequently get the question, “are there other people in their 20's and 30's that are a part of Saint Michael, and is there a place where they meet and connect on Sundays?” I would answer, “Yes! There is a growing number of young adults and young couples!” However, I did not have a quick or satisfactory response about where they meet or when and how often.

In an effort to make better connections with these young adults, I began putting together group texts to introduce and connect them with each other and Saint

Michael. The Engagement Ministry collaborated with Mission and Outreach for a holiday get-together and also began inviting this demographic to learn about various social and serving opportunities both inside and outside of the parish walls. As I began learning more about Saint Michael, I would pass this information along to the growing young adult and young couple group texts. Engagement also began inviting young adults to Sunday brunch, and opportunities to help out with ministry needs, or to meet up at Saint Michael's Farmers Market. It quickly became clear that there was a ministry opportunity and a growing need. From past experience with community development, church planting, and higher education project/ event planning, I saw an opportunity to collaborate with clergy, volunteers, and parishioners.

Initially, I reached out to three well-respected and seasoned Saint

Michaelites whom I had met and spoken with previously and asked if they would be willing to meet with a handful of young adults and young couples for lunch. We met one afternoon at the Taco Joint in Preston Center. Personal and Saint Michael stories were shared over tacos, and a seed for a Young Adult Ministry was planted! These seasoned parishioners not only shared their stories and testimonies of how God had worked in their lives as part of this parish, but they also offered to personally help and make connections with others to help move things forward. I believe we all left this lunch encouraged and inspired with a sense that God was inviting us to join him in something new.

This led to another conversation with my Engagement Coordinator one morning in March of 2023 about (at the risk of sounding trite), “What would Jesus do?” We both recognized that throughout the Bible, Jesus was constantly meeting people where they were (including his twelve disciples), sharing a meal with them, and inviting them to follow him. Our response to the question of “What would Jesus do in this situation” became simple: why don’t we follow Jesus’ example and ask some parishioners if they would be willing to host a dinner at their home. At the same time, we asked other parishioners if they would be willing to be part of a panel discussion and share their story as it related to Rela-

tionships, Marriage and Family, and Mission and Outreach. Then we invited around 176 young adults and young couples in their 20's and 30's to each dinner.

By mid-summer, we recognized a growing group of young adults who had a strong interest in being part of a young adult ministry at Saint Michael. As the numbers continued to grow, the prayerful question became, “What is a simple, collaborative, and consistent pathway for these young adults and young couples to meet and connect on Sundays and during the week, learn about and experience different ministries and opportunities at Saint Michael, and invite others to join them for discipleship, social, and serving opportunities?”

The following is how God has begun answering this question and a summary of our prayerful response, and initial steps in developing a young adult ministry at Saint Michael (with a wonderful group of young adults, parishioners, clergy, and staff, and an enthusiastic and hope-filled Engagement Ministry):

1 A successful Summer Meeting and Mentoring Dinner Series followed by months of hard work, collaboration, intentional conversations, and strategic planning with clergy, staff, parishioners, and young adults.

2 The creation of a 30+ member Saint Michael Young

Adult task force made up of a diverse group of young adults in their 20's and 30's.

3 The development of a plan and repeatable young adult ministry process along with a strategic Fall and Spring Young Adult Ministry Calendar for Sunday formation, social, and serving opportunities.

4 The green light for a Young Adult Sunday 10 a.m. formation hour (made up of three and four-week Bible study series) with intentional breaks in between, including a Sunday brunch to kick off each new Bible study series.

5 The creation of a Young Adult Ministry web page to inform, communicate, and invite other young adults to Sunday formation, social, and serving opportunities during the Fall and Spring terms each year.

We ask for your prayers for this growing group of young adults and a continued sensitivity and prayerful response to what God has done, is doing, and will do, not only in and through this ministry, but also in and through all the amazing ministries and lives that make up this growing community of faith at Saint Michael. To learn more about SMAA's Young Adult Ministry, please visit saintmichael.org/youngadults or contact Rob Springer-Kyle, Engagement Director, at (903) 405-7447 or rspringer-kyle@saintmichael.org.

Featured Items from the

BOOK SHOP

Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sundays: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Shopping

SaintMichael.org/Bookshop

Christmas

Nativity glass cloche ornament $12

Wood nesting doll nativity $33

Nativity cookie cutter set $14.50

Hermes Candle $58

themed candles handmade in South Africa $13 each

FALL KICKOFF | August 13, 2023

Fall Kickoff was a whirlwind of fun, flavor, and inspiration. From delicious popcorn varieties to getting our caricatures drawn, the excitement was palpable. But it's not just about the treats – we geared up to pray, learn, serve, and give like never before this year.

The Birth of Jesus

Long ago, there was a prophet named Isaiah. He spoke about the coming of a very special person that will bring us back to God. Isaiah said, “To us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Let’s go back to a little village called Nazareth. A young girl named Mary lived there with her parents. Everyone knew her, because she grew up there. A man named Joseph also lived there and was a little older than Mary. He was a carpenter. They met, fell in love, and became engaged to be married.

One day, Mary went to get water from the well, and on her way back, she sat down to rest. All of a sudden, an angel named Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Mary, God has chosen you to be the mother of his son, Jesus.” “Me? The mother of Jesus?” a surprised Mary asked. “How can this be? I’m not married yet.” Gabriel said, “The

Holy Spirit will come upon you, and you will conceive this child.” Even though she was still confused, she said, “May God’s will be done.”

Then, Gabriel floated across the village to visit Joseph. He was sleeping, because it was the middle of night. The angel woke him up, and Joseph was stunned, because an angel was in his bedroom! Gabriel told him, “Joseph, there’s something you need to know. Your future wife, Mary, is conceiving the son of God, and this is God’s will. Therefore, you ought to protect and lead them.” Joseph was perplexed when he woke, but he and Mary knew what Gabriel had told them.

Some days passed, then the emperor said, “Everybody has to go to their birthplace village and sign up for taxes, because I’m gonna tax ya! I want to know who you are.” So, Joseph and Mary (who was pregnant) went 90 miles from Nazareth down to Jericho, to the little village of Bethlehem. It took them six days.

Mary rode on a donkey, and Joseph went by foot, leading them with his staff. The donkey was very important, because it carried Mary and baby Jesus.

Well, there were no Holiday Inn hotels at that time, so on the way to Bethlehem, they had to sleep in caves. When night came, they put blankets down in the cave, fed the donkey, ate some food, and continued their journey. The evening of the sixth day, they overlooked the village of Bethlehem. Joseph said, “Well, let’s go into the village and find an inn, because you’re going to have this baby very soon!”

They went into the village, stopped some people, and Joseph asked, “Do you know where an inn is where we can stay? My wife is going to have a baby very, very soon!” A lady pointed her finger and said, “Go that way.”

They came to an inn, which was bustling with animals and people. They yelled at the innkeeper to come out. When he did, he said, “I don’t have any room for you.” “Please, she’s going to have a baby,” Joseph cried, “it could be tonight!” The innkeeper said, “Well, I’ve got a little

shed in the back. If you want to stay there, you can. Animals are in there, but that’s all I have.” Joseph said he would take it, and they went back into that shed. Sure enough, there were sheep, cows, and all kinds of animals.

In the middle of the night, she gave birth to baby Jesus. The animals were so proud; even a little bird got on the baby and looked at him with joy. The angels gathered around. They sang, clapped their hands, and were all excited, because something special had happened! Out on the hillside were some shepherds. They saw this beautiful, large star in the distance over the shed. “Let’s go see what that star is; I’ve never seen one that big!” Away they went. When they got to the shed, Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus were there with the animals gathered around to give warmth.

Baby Jesus grew up to teach us that we should always act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.

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. It is available for sale in the SMAA Book Shop.

GRANT THEM ETERNAL REST

May the souls of these faithful departed rest in peace

Matthew H. Rundell

May 1, Pamela Rundell (sister) and Reiny (nephew)

Dr. Christian Lee Moncrief

July 8, John Moncrief and Katherine Moncrief (children)

Henry Newton Bell III

July 21, Dr. Reggie McFarland (daughter), John McFarland, Jr. (son-in-law), Tennie and Jack (grandchildren)

Billie Jean Sneed Apple

July 28, Susan Graass (daughter), Jim (son-in-law), James, Catherine, John Thomas, and Benjamin (grandchildren)

Wayne Aiken Tenney

July 28, Donna Tenney (wife), Leila McCarty (daughter), Scott (son-in-law), Kate, Jack, Matt, Caroline, and Michael (grandchildren), Meredith Turner (daughter), Mike (son-in-law), Graham, Will, and Thomas (grandchildren), Nancy Harralson (sister-in-law), Howell (brother-in-law), Frank Houseman (brother-in-law) and Ann (sister-in-law)

Charles Thomas Sikes

July 29, Stuart Sikes (son), Jeanie (daughter-in-law), Sidney and Charlie (grandchildren), Caroline Sikes Holt (granddaughter) and Forrest (grandson-in-law)

Beverly Berry Graham

August 1, Rebecca McDaniel (daughter), Ed (son-in-law) and Lauren (granddaughter)

Sally Kay Davis

August 3, Dick Davis, Jr. (son), Rita (daughter-in-law), Caroline Eastman (granddaughter), Perry, Ward, and Louisa (greatgrandchildren)

Larry Edsel Ramey

August 3

Is abella "Belle" Pescud Williams Smith

August 7, Mason Custard (daughter), Allen (son-in-law), Isabella, William, and Franklin (grandchildren)

Barbara Dolan Miercort

August 10, Cliff Miercort (husband)

Garrett Houston Brown

August 14, Rosamond Brown (mother) and Cynthia Sample (aunt)

Beverly June Moore Baker

August 20, Shannon Werthmann (daughter), Craig (son-inlaw), Hilary Swalm (granddaughter), Matt (grandson-inlaw), Sterling and Madison (great-grandchildren)

J ane McNaughton Koch

August 25, Jim Jones (son-in-law) and Bonnie, Graham Jones Cocklin (granddaughter), Toben (grandson-in-law), Lisa and Rollie (great-grandchildren)

M ichael Jon Telfer

August 28, The Rev. Dr. Hiltrude Nusser-Telfer (mother)

Deirdre Denman Glober

September 6, George Glober (husband)

James Sydney "Jim" Ramsey, Jr.

September 7, Mary Stewart Ramsey (wife)

Mary Kate Allen Crawford "Katie" West

September 7, Kent West (husband), Kelly Crawford (daughter), Madison and Harrison Doyle (grandchildren), Kimberly Rogers (niece) and Jeff (nephew-in-law)

Patrick K Johnson

September 9, Kelley Christian (sister), Brian (brother-in-law), Elliot, Harper, and Claire (nieces)

Barbara Franklin Wiggins

September 10, Phillip Wiggins (son), Donell (daughter-inlaw), Davis Wiggins (grandson), Meredith (granddaughter-inlaw), Walker and Peter (great-grandchildren)

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

Celebrating the arrivals of our newest family

Jack Drury Ensslen

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Parents: Dru & Spencer Ensslen

Grandparents: Jamie and the late Chris Eddy

Walter Gene Weekes

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Parents: Brad & Emily Weekes

Saint Michael Presents gratefully acknowledges and thanks our generous donors!

SFORZANDO

Mary and Jerry Andrlik

Marla and Tony Briggle

Kelly Compton and DeWitt McCarter

Mary Louise and David Hopson

Suzanne and Jay Lipscomb

Darrel and Jeff Rice

Wyatt and Carolyn Rousseau

CRESCENDO

Randy and Anne Slaughter

Dr. Sharon Spalding

John and Kathy Yeaman

The Arkay Foundation

Shannon Wilson Callewart

Craig and Caren Clemmer

Pam Barbera

Louise and Guy Griffeth

Terese Finitzo

Nicole and Chris Girata

Christian Moncrief

Allan and Dawn Morrill

PRESTO

Libby Norwood Johnson

Betty Lipscomb

Ricki and Gabe Shapiro

Tricia and Tom Stewart

ARPEGGIO

Byrd F. Teague

Dr. and Mrs. Leslie H. Secrest

Deborah McMurray and Glen Davison

Gigi and Jerry Poglitsch

Ann Peak and Nino Torres

Mary and Matt Waller

Adele Broughton

Rosamond Brown

Julie and Chuck Butterworth

Fred and Sandi Ciarochi

John Ellerman

Margaret E. Cervin

Kendall and Deanna Goodman

Mary Jo and Bart Forbes

Jane and Greg Greene

Dr. David and Mrs. Corinne Karp

Elizabeth and John Lang

Ruth and Fred Mason

DOLCE

Sandra Hughes

Barbara Kandel

Pat and Don Moore

To donate to Saint Michael Presents, please scan the QR code.

Sue and Bob Patton

Helen Reynolds

Charles Sartain

Tig Thompson

Kathleen and Jay Wallace

Leonard Shockey

Paige Wilbur

*As of: 9/12/2023

NEW MEMBER OFFERINGS

With the Rev. Dr. Christoper D. Girata and the Rev. Mary Lessmann

EPISCOPAL CHRISTIANS

Sundays, October 8-29, 2023

12:15–1:30 p.m. | Coke Room

Episcopal Christians is for those new to Christianity, new to Saint Michael, or members who want to revisit the core features of our belief and practice. This offering will provide an overview of our faith and explore what it means to be Christian in the Episcopal tradition. This class also serves as Confirmation preparation. Childcare will be available with advance registration and lunch will be available for purchase. For more information or to register, scan the QR code or contact Beth Igoe, bigoe@saintmichael.org.

SAINT MICHAEL 101

Sunday, January 21, 2024

12:15–1:30 PM | Parlor

If you are new to Saint Michael, just visiting, or want to learn more about membership, then this is for you! Come meet members of our clergy and vestry, hear about our many ministries, opportunities for involvement, and the exciting future of our parish. Lunch will be served and childcare will be available with advance registration. For more information or to register, scan the QR code or contact Rob Springer-Kyle, rspringer-kyle@saintmichael.org.

The liturgically seasonal publication of Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church