themessenger Monthly Newsletter of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church October 2015
VOLUME 104
ISSUE 9 FROM THE RECTOR
IN THIS ISSUE: Finance Report Page 2 Adult Formation Page 3 Parish News Page 4 Special Pull Out: Vestry Nominees Page 5-8 Youth News Page 9 Children’s News Page 10 Music News Page 11
ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 315 E. Pecan St. San Antonio, Texas 78205 (210) 226-2426 www.stmarks-sa.org stmarks@stmarks-sa.org Office hours: Monday thru Friday 9.00am-5.00pm Emergency Pastoral Care: 210-507-0256
A Community of Generosity “The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” 2 Corinthians 9:6
It is impossible for me to believe that I have been here at St. Mark’s for over a year now. It has been a year of excitement and energy. As we have commenced our regular fall routines there is an ongoing sense of commitment to one another and excitement for the future. We have resumed our One Body, Many Menu gatherings and these have been continued opportunities to reflect on the core vocation of St. Mark’s and what it means to each of us. We had an incredibly successful funding appeal over the summer and will look forward to welcoming a third clergy person to our staff in the near future. Because of the generous response of this community we will also be able to address our outstanding debt and realize immediate savings in next year’s budget. It is a testament to the faith of our members that we are willing to give so generously to ensure that we are answering the calling God has for us in this particular place and time. Using our theme of One Body, Many Members, we have been able to reflect in the past year about the may ways in which we individually contribute to the ministry we enact as the Body of Christ in this place. In the coming month as we prepare for our Stewardship Ingathering on All Saints Sunday, November 1, 2015, we will hear from various people who have seen the impact our generosity has made in their lives and this community. We will hear from our outreach recipients, our youth, our choir members, and those who have been fed by the ministry of this place. Hopefully by hearing the stories with one another, we are reminded of just how much our generosity is able to accomplish. It is only through the efforts of many that we are able to fully live into our calling. On All Saint’s Sunday in addition to our pledge ingathering, we will have the annual parish meeting. This will allow us to update the community about the past year and elect next year’s vestry class. I am delighted that ten wonderful people have offered themselves to serve. There is an important insert contained here that will allow you to discern who you might vote for. It is an ongoing affirmation of this community that such people of faith desire to serve. I hope you are as energized as I am about the coming year. I remain so grateful to be called to St. Mark’s. The generosity, kindness, and deep faith I encountered in the search committee, is only surpassed by my experience of these same elements throughout the parish. There are so many opportunities for ministry here. I hope you have found one that enriches your sense of purpose in your life. If you haven’t, let’s find one for you. I am sure it is here! Peace,
Beth+
The Messenger is published monthly and is available in magazine format online at www.stmarks-sa.org.
Parish Clergy The Rev. Beth Knowlton Rector The Rev. Carol Morehead Associate Rector Making a Gift of Their Service The Rev. C. Douglas Earle Assisting Priest The Rev. Mary Earle Assisting Priest The Rev. Dr. John Lewis Co-Director, The Work+Shop The Rev. Dr. Jane Patterson Co-Director, The Work+Shop The Rev. Linda Ricketts Assisting Priest Staff Dina Aboul Saad Director of Communications, Stewardship, & Gift Planning Todd Allison Director of Youth Ministry Priscilla Briones Finance Manager Janet Carrizales Director of Nursery Joseph Causby, PhD Organist & Choirmaster Emmet Faulk Business Administrator Erin Hughes Assistant Director of Youth Ministry Marsha Kimura Music Department Administrator Richard Maldonado Chef Jesse “Chuy” Mendoza Kitchen Manager/Chef Ruby Merrill Facilities Supervisor & Receptionist Pat Hutchison Noble Community of Care Amanda Quisenberry Interim Director of Children’s Ministry Dr. Edwin A. Rieke Director of Music & Organist Emeritus Callie Sanchez Children’s Ministry Intern Derek Shively Head Sexton Robert Stubbs Organ Scholar Leah Thomas Special Events Coordinator
St. Mark’s Episcopal 315 E. Pecan St. San Antonio, TX 78205 www.stmarks-sa.org
FINANCE REPORT Emmet Faulk, | Parish Business Administrator | efaulkjr@stmarks-sa.org
Financial Report (Year-to-Date) Below is the budgeted financial report for as of August 31, 2015.
2015 FINANCIAL REPORT 66.67% of annual budget Pledge Revenue
Actual (YTD)
Budgeted (YTD)
$1,143,051
$1,213,333
$117,689
$107,000
$28,066
$26,510
$235,181
$223,653
$77,508
$145,333
TOTAL REVENUE:
$1,601,495
$1,715,829
TOTAL EXPENSES:
$1,575,820
$1,769,419
$25,675
($53,590)
Non Pledged Giving Open Plate Giving/Seasonal Giving Other Revenue (e.g., parking lot, weddings) Endowments/Funds Revenue
OVER/(UNDER):
If you need to catch up on your pledge, go to http://tinyurl.com/STMgiving and use our online giving portal. We accept Visa/Mastercard/Discover and e-Check. You may also contact Priscilla Briones at pbriones@stmarks-sa.org or 210-226-2426.
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2015 STEWARDSHIP UPDATE 2015 Pledges # Pledges AVERAGE Median Pledge
$1,666,398 353 $4,721 $2,400
Adult Christian Formation The Rev. Carol Morehead | Associate Rector | cmorehead@stmarks-sa.org
Sunday Offerings
Midweek Offerings
Season After Pentecost
Wednesday Evening Bible Study, Every other week, 6.00pm - 7.30pm Dean Richardson Room (2nd floor) We continue our study of the Gospel of Mark. Class will meet October 7 & 21, November 4 & 18, and December 2 & 16. Led by The Rev. Carol Morehead
The Rector’s Forum: Living a Life of Prayer and Thanksgiving, Gish Hall You are invited this fall to come and reflect on what impact the way of prayer has on our daily lives. Often times we feel pulled in so many different directions our worship can feel cut off from our daily life. There is a case to be made that actually what we do in worship is mirrored in many of our daily activities. What can we take from the various parts of the Holy Eucharist that actually impact the way we experience God outside of Sunday worship? How can we gather those insights during the week and then come to worship in a way that allows us even greater grounding in the liturgy? September October October October October
27 4 11 18 25
November 8 November 15 November 22
Time Out Bible Study, Weekly, Thursday mornings 10.00am - 11.30am, Youth Suite Time Out meets weekly and is studying the Gospel of Mark. Led by The Rev. Dr. John Lewis and The Rev. Carol Morehead Thursday Evening Book Study, Crazy Christians: A Call to Follow Jesus by Michael B. Curry, Room 102 Come and meet our Presiding Bishop-Elect Michael B. Curry through this book study -and hear anew Jesus’ call to follow. The study will meet on Thursday evenings at 6.00pm, and will be led by The Rev. Cliff Waller. Books will be available at the first class.
Hearing the Word Our Common Creed Turning Again towards God Enacting Reconciliation Lifting Our Hearts in Thanksgiving Remembering the Larger Story Being Fed Going Forth into the World
See the St. Mark’s Parish Life Handbook for further Adult Formation offerings.
The Gifted Years Book Study
Wednesday Night with Bishop Lillibridge September 30 at 6.30pm
The Gifted Years continues this fall and will read Eager to Love: The Alternative Way of Francis of Assisi by Richard Rohr. This study helps us be guided “on the path of evolving life toward integrated wholeness" and covers a wide range of topics. Since this book has so much to offer, we plan to do the first half in the fall and continue with it in the spring. Mark your calendars for the fall sessions, which will be on Tuesday mornings from 10.00-11.30am, beginning October 6 and continuing through November 10. All are welcome. The study is led by Lillian Morris and Lou Taylor; mentored by Betty Anne Cody.
Bishop Gary Lillibridge will be visiting on September 30th to provide an update on the proceedings at this year's General Convention. Join us in Gish Hall at 6.30pm to hear his perspective and how we will move forward as a Diocese. Beforehand, join us for dinner at Cafe Kairos at 5.00pm and mid-week Eucharist at 5.30pm in Bethlehem Chapel.
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Parish News Ministry Architects
BOOKSTORE NOTES:
Join us on October 3 for a Ministry Architects town hall meeting as we evaluate how to shape our children's ministries in the coming years. Ministry Architects is a consulting firm that specializes in helping churches develop sustainable ministries that meet the specific needs of a parish. The feedback collected during this session and other smaller gatherings with our Children's and Family Ministry committee will shape our search for the next Director of Children's Ministries. Join us in Gish Hall at 11.00am. There will be light refreshments. Please RSVP to the church for child care by Wednesday, September 30 or email Janet at jcarrizales@stmarks-sa.org.
Return of an old favorite!!!! We now have in stock the 2016 Daily Planner Social Capers. Inside is a calendar for each month and then week by week; with large spaces to write morning, afternoon, and evening activities. There is also a place to make quick notes on each page. The total size is 5” x 7", so it is easy to carry everywhere you go. Come by the Bookstore and pick one up, or give it as a Christmas gift.
One Body, Many Menus This is your opportunity to meet other members in small gatherings to talk about St. Mark’s future and get to know Beth better in a social setting. Sign up is available online under Calendar and Events. Remaining gatherings are: Thursday, Sep. 24 , 6.00pm-7.30pm - Jimmy and Jane Satel Friday, Oct. 2nd, 6.30pm-8.00pm - Joe and Karen Perretta Saturday, Oct. 3, 6.00pm-7.30pm - Thompson/Villa co-host (at Thompson’s) Sunday, Oct. 18, 4.00pm-5.30pm - John and Mary McClung Thursday, Oct. 22, 6.00pm-7.30pm - Kelly and Stephen Cavender
Blessing of the Animals and Holy Eucharist On Sunday, October 4, at 4.00pm, there will be a Blessing of the Animals and Holy Eucharist in honor of St. Francis of Assisi's love for all creatures. We will gather in the Plaza (grass lawn) on the south side of the church. The Children and Youth Choirs will sing. All are invited to bring your pets to receive a blessing, not just cats and dogs!
Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, November 1, 2015 10.10a.m., Gosnell Hall, 1st floor Our annual parish meeting and vestry election will be held on November 1. In addition to the elections, we will hear from the senior warden, the treasurer, and the rector. A printed annual report will be available summarizing our activities in 2015 and 2014 financials. All members are encouraged to attend this important annual meeting. We hope to see you there. 4
Vestry Nominees
Class of 2018
The Discernment Committee is pleased to announce the following nominees for the Vestry Class of 2018. Each of the parishioners on the following pages has been considered in coordination with the Vestry Goals and Challenges, as well as being vetted to meet the canons, and each has accepted the call to ministry by allowing their names to stand for the Vestry election to be held on November 1. Elections are held in the fall so the new Vestry members may go through an orientation process before they take office in 2016. As in any election, we do not have to know each person in order to vote for them. Because of this, these questions and answers are designed to help the parish be well informed as we approach the Fall Parish Meeting and election. Please read their biographical information, review the criteria for this Vestry class, and prayerfully consider before November 1. These questions were asked of all candidates. Their answers follow. 1. Why do you feel called to serve on the vestry of St. Mark’s? 2. Please describe your participation at St. Mark's and/or in the community, indicating experiences that you think will be helpful for the vestry. 3. St. Mark’s Core Vocation is feeding San Antonio with the Bread of Life: Feeding the hungry with real food; feeding those who are hungry for knowledge and meaning; feeding those who are hungry for beauty and creativity. How do you envision the vestry working in support of this vocation? 4. When did you join St. Mark’s and what continues to draw you to this community?
Paul Allen 1. Being a member of the Episcopal Church my entire life, I have been the beneficiary of the good works that the church provides. Now that I'm trying to raise my family with good Christian values, I believe it's the right time to show my children it is important to not just attend church but also to give of your time and skills when possible. 2. As a member of a manufacturing business, I know first-hand how easy it is to get pulled in many different directions all at once. Even though it is difficult, it is important to remain focused on the task at hand to ensure it is completed as thoroughly as possible. This is not to downplay the value of multitasking, but rather to suggest that more can be accomplished with a well thought out plan to which the team adheres. 3. The vestry's purpose is to enable the parishioners of the church to achieve their goals. My goal is to help St Mark's continue to exceed at community outreach while honing our ability to bring tremendous benefits to downtown San Antonio. 4. I joined St. Mark's in 2003 when I moved to San Antonio. My wife and I were married in the church in 2004 and both of our children Charlotte, 7, and Penelope, 4, were baptized at St. Mark's. The congregation has always been so warm and welcoming. While it is home to many of our family members, we have formed new friendships here as well.
Dawna Boudreaux 1. I feel called to serve on the vestry of St. Mark’s because I love being a part of the St. Mark’s community. This church is a place where my family and I feel at home and we truly feel supported and embraced by this parish. I want to do everything that I can to support the ministry and vision of St. Mark’s and hopefully, by doing that, I can make other families and individuals feel as welcomed as I do . 2. As a member of the Daughters of The King, I have a duty to prayer and service. I participate at St. Mark’s by serving as a Lector, a part-time Sunday School teacher, on a Funeral Reception team, with Lenten Lunches, and with children’s events. Outside of St. Mark’s, I have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity; developed a fitness and nutrition program for the Good Samaritan Center; participated in Olmos Park clean up, Back to School Immunization events and health fairs; and I speak at several career fairs throughout the year. I am currently participating in the Lenten Offerings Committee which is an important ministry that affects the future of our Lenten programming that I believe will be helpful to the vestry. I also feel that my commitment to community service will allow me to continue to make that an important part of the St. Mark’s outreach ministry. 5
Vestry Nominees
Class of 2018
Dawna Boudreaux, continued: 3. I would like to see St. Mark’s continue to look for opportunities to feed the needy with real food. I know that we do have a kitchen ministry that serves at Haven for Hope, but it would be nice to expand our offerings to include individuals who may still have a need outside of the Haven campus. I am excited about the recent offerings of speakers for the adult education hour and sponsored by the bookstore, and hope to bring in more individuals in the future. I am also really excited about what has been happening with art at St. Mark’s, from the art being displayed and the art show that we had, to the painting classes that were held over the summer. I definitely want these types of events to continue along with the amazing music program that we have. 4. I joined St. Mark’s in 2007 and I continue to be drawn to this parish by the sense of community that is felt here. We are committed and involved with each other on so many levels, from church services to music, children’s ministry, and community service, and I love that about St. Mark’s.
Julie Mock 1. If I am elected to serve on the vestry, I will consider it an opportunity to serve God. I have a longstanding love of St. Mark’s and I have filled multiple leadership roles both here and in my career, 2. I am spiritually fed by the services, activities and classes in which I have been involved at St. Mark’s. What most deeply fills me is the music at Sunday morning services. When I sing with the choir and congregation, I am truly praying twice! I have taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School, and worked on Lenten Luncheons, Ruby’s Kitchen, and Haven for Hope for years. I currently serve on Altar Guild, both at St. Mark’s and at St. John’s Chapel at the Bishop Jones Center (BJC). I am on a Funeral Reception team and I am the Facilitator of the weekly Wednesday Bible Study that meets at the BJC. I also held leadership roles at the school from which I retired, both as school-wide Facilitator for a reading program developed at Johns Hopkins University and later as the Instructional Interventionist. Currently I am the State Treasurer for the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in the State of Texas. 3. To support St. Mark’s core vocation of feeding the San Antonio community with the Bread of Life, I believe vestry members must allocate outreach resources - both financially and “hands on”- by serving as role models in these areas. We must also feed our membership with worship, educational, volunteer, and social opportunities. 4. I am a lifelong Episcopalian, born and raised in our local Eagle Pass church, the Diocese of West Texas, and Camp Capers. I first joined St. Mark’s when I married a lifelong member and we raised both our daughters here. My history at St. Mark’s started some 50 years ago!
Joey Oliver 1. I feel encouraged by others that my talents, experience, and demeanor could possibly be an attribute to St. Mark’s leadership. I feel willing to share my perspective, and hope that it represents others so that my potential involvement in the vestry could help to represent their voice as well as mine. I feel a responsibility to address what I believe could be improved by and for the St. Mark’s community. 2. My professional career involves managing businesses through change, including turnarounds and startup companies. My experience is in rationalizing situations – where things currently stand, where they need to go and how to best get there. St. Mark’s is in a period of exciting change. While at St. Mark’s, I have served on the Finance Committee and as an usher, as well as supported my wife, daughters, and others in their valuable volunteer commitments. 3. My belief is that the vestry, through its collective talents and teamwork, should be aware and attentive to “feeding” in a variety of ways, both within the parish and within the local communities, with a loving and compassionate heart, based on prioritized needs and an understanding and appreciation of resources in a fiscally conscious and responsible manner. 4. Our family joined St. Mark’s in 2001 after moving here from Houston. Patrice and I were married 35 years ago in a downtown Episcopal Church in Jackson, Mississippi by a female priest. We found ourselves comfortable in a downtown Episcopal Church with female priests on staff, a living example of diversity in leadership for our two young daughters. St. Mark’s has been a good community for our family and for our own individual spiritual maturation.
Harold Sager 1. Feeling called to serve on the vestry came as a response to two members of the Vestry Discernment Committee who, over lunch, asked that I stand for election to the vestry. With care and thoughtfulness they also explained why they were asking me to do so. I feel honored to have been nominated and if 6
Harold Sager continued: 2. Participation at St. Mark's includes 12 years in St. Mark's Choir, serving on the Generosity Commission with an emphasis on gift planning, organizing and leading a luncheon event that focused on end of life issues, joining St. Mark's Gryphons' Cycling Club, and from time to time being one volunteer among many who delivered flowers following worship, prepared and served meals at Christmas to the Street, waited tables at Lenten Lunches, contacted members during stewardship drives, and made presentations at Wednesday Family Ministry. I am currently a Board Member of the San Antonio Chamber Choir. 3. I envision the vestry working together--some primarily in one area, some in another. Personal involvement by members of the vestry in the activities that fulfill the Core Vocation is essential. Given the number who serve on the Board, along with the wealth of experiences and the variety of interests that each one possesses promises that different ways of feeding with the Bread of Life will receive broad support and encouragement from St. Mark's governing body. 4. I became a member of St. Mark's on May 15, 2003, and the experiences that I have had here has drawn me closer to this community than I felt on the day that I joined. Listening to lively and thoughtful proclamations of the Gospel from the pulpit, the joy of singing and listening to hymns and anthems led by superb and personable musicians, the privilege of getting to know long-time and recent members as well as people whose life stories and age differ greatly from my own, for the myriad opportunities offered for fellowship, and of being included in a never ending stream of wonderful conversations and humorous banter--these are several of the reasons I think St. Mark's is an exuberant community of saints and sinners always dependent upon our Lord for, to paraphrase the Eucharistic Prayer C, Rite2, solace and strength, for pardon and renewal.
Trey Thompson 1. I am inspired by the direction of the Holy Spirit and willingness to listen that I see in the leadership and congregation and I want to become more involved in the community life of St. Mark's. 2. I have primarily been a worshipper at St. Mark’s. This is where I fill my tank in order to live my life in the most authentic and joyful way possible. I have been an Episcopalian as long as I can remember. I have been an acolyte, youth group member, college Canterbury member, summer camp staff, Sunday school and confirmation class teacher, vestry member, junior warden, and senior warden. 3. St. Mark’s Core Vocation is a beautiful translation of the Gospel into a particular time here at St. Mark’s in downtown San Antonio. The three elements of the vocation provide us with a rich foundation for exploring our individual and community connection to the life of Jesus. I want the vestry to support and develop activities that help us more deeply experience and share the Bread of Life seven days a week. 4. I have been attending St Marks since we moved here in 2002 because it feels like a safe place to pursue my spiritual journey. There is a sense of respect for one another that allows me to be open to uncomfortable challenges from God within the comfortable and beautiful traditions of the Episcopal Church.
Angela Torres-Lopez 1. It is important to contribute time and talent to those things that are life giving. In many ways I am in a unique position to represent a part of our community. Through this representation, I hope to make worthwhile contributions to St. Mark's, filling in the pieces of the picture that make us the dynamic community we are, all the while continuing my walk with Christ. 2. I am currently a member of the Commission on Ministries and the Children and Family Ministries Committee; and volunteer at St. George Episcopal School (including serving on the PTO Board as Lower School Coordinator). Additionally I’ve been active with the St. Mark's Delegation to the Annual Diocesan Council (2014, 2015), St. Benedict's WorkShop pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Time Out Bible Study, WorkShop events, St. Mark's Bookstore as bookkeeper, 20s-30s-40s Connections, Cherub Choir, Lenten Luncheons, Haven for Hope worship service ministry, Lenten Creative Worship Team, Generosity/We Give! Committee, and the Come As You Are (CAYA) worship service as a Lector. 3. It's important for the vestry to serve as a model of true and genuine relationships in Christ. I am passionate about building and strengthening these authentic relationships in our community. When individuals feel truly comfortable with one another, they connect and engage by sharing their knowledge and experiences. This holds us accountable to one another as we delve deeper in our search for spiritual meaning, empowering us to love Christ more fully and make Christ known as we set out to do the work he has given us to do. With this in mind, we can better aim to feed those who are hungry for knowledge, meaning and beauty. 4. My family joined St. Mark's in January 2011; Fran and I were received that November. I vividly remember John Lewis's sermon discussing the Epiphany on our first Sunday. It took only that one morning of listening to the service and witnessing acts of hospitality toward our family for us to notice that St. Mark's is a community that strives to reflect God's love and presence. Furthermore, one simply cannot find a comparable offering of formation opportunities. My family deeply appreciates the congregation's desire to build a community with one another. I am eager to see how these relationships grow deeper and more meaningful in the coming years. 7
Ralph Voight 1. I believe my active involvement in various individual committees has given me a solid understanding of the ministries and heart of St. Mark’s. I believe it is now time to use this knowledge and leadership experience to help move St. Mark’s forward as a member of the vestry. 2. I’ve been an active member of the St. Mark’s community since my confirmation; serving as Head Usher, Parish Picnic Co-Chair, Lay Eucharistic Minister, Finance Committee Member, Lenten Luncheon Volunteer and various other roles in ministries and committees throughout the years. Most recently, I served as a member of the New Rector Search Committee. 3. As a vestry member, my priority is outreach. I believe that as a downtown church there are many opportunities for the St. Mark’s community to steward our Core Vocation in the broader community. I believe St. Mark’s can expand our programs to feed others with real food and knowledge through outreach to the downtown area. 4. I moved to San Antonio in June of 2000 and quickly found a church home at St. Mark’s. After attending for a year, I made the decision to officially join the Episcopal Church and was confirmed in 2001. I continue to be drawn to our community by fellowship and stewardship. I am Vice President of Visitor Experience at the Witte Museum and serve on the Board of the Brackenridge Park Conservancy. I recently celebrated my 14-year anniversary with the Witte Museum. I am passionate about my work there and hope to bring my experience in mission-based leadership to the St. Mark’s community. My wife Robin and I were married at St. Mark’s in June 2000. We have two sons, Tripp and Bailey.
Agatha Wade 1. I have served on the vestry previously and know it works best when it contains a good mix of folks. I am called to try to articulate well and share my aspirations for St. Mark's and our communal future if selected for the vestry. 2. My church activities include the Altar Guild, being a Lay Eucharistic Minister, serving on the second Sunday supper team at Haven for Hope, and participating in the Mesa Redonda study group and Outreach Grant Committee. In the community, I am active in a group that promotes cultural diversity and another that raises funds for cancer research. I have studied the consensus decision-making approach and am glad that it is employed by our vestry as it provides space for minority positions that often get overlooked or shut down. 3. I believe the vestry serves as eyes and ears for the parish and to help bring forward ideas already in the parish that warrant consideration. The vestry works to support St. Mark's Core Values by examining these values when deliberating or taking action. Our vestry has and should continue to examine our resources and do what it can to fulfill the needs of our members and the community whether it is with real food, knowledge, or an opportunity for beauty. 4. I came to St. Mark's as I was entering seventh grade, just in time for confirmation. Since then, I have been a parish member whenever I have lived in San Antonio. St. Mark's keeps me grounded both emotionally and spiritually and as such has provided me a community that I could not do without!
Susan Wilson 1. When asked why membership in this parish is so special and so different, I welcome the chance to say that I have always felt accepted and valued, that questioning, seeking, and doubt are welcomed, diversity is evident and honored, and that the only certainty is that we must take care of each other. It will be an honor to share the blessings and experience I have gained at St. Mark’s if I’m elected to the vestry. 2. Working behind the scenes is where I’m most comfortable, so I have found opportunities to contribute time and treasure by teaching Sunday School, by designing, making and maintaining the props for the Christmas Pageant, by serving on the Altar Guild, and by responding quietly to the needs of others when they are in difficulty. 3. Through the years I have been fed and formed by worship, prayer, teaching, healing, music, friendship, and service. Having been fed in many ways by St. Mark’s, I believe service on the vestry would enable me to move from consumer of mystical bread to being a baker and distributer of both physical and spiritual bread in the ministries we proclaim to our community. 4. I was baptized in the Congregational church in Casper, Wyoming as a child, confirmed in the Presbyterian church during elementary school, and joined St. Nicholas Episcopal Church in Midland, Texas while I was an eighth grade student at what is now Trinity (Episcopal) School. The words and order of the Liturgy connected with my soul. I have been a member of St. Mark’s for over 30 years, and I will be here forever, since my husband of 40 years, Jim, and I have reservations in the columbarium. Further aspects of my life include teaching elementary school for 25 years, nurturing and launching 3 children, savoring 2 grandchildren (so far), travel - especially to Wyoming, collecting children’s literature, gardening, collecting rocks and fossils, and creating glass beads with a torch.
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Youth News Todd Allison, Youth Director | Erin Hughes, Assistant Youth Director | youth@stmarks-sa.org
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SMCYOUTH
@SMYGSA
#SMYGSA
FALL 2015 YOUTH EVENTS Wednesday Night Fellowship August 26 through December 16
Sunday Night LIVE September 13, October 11, November 8
New Beginnings (6th-8th grade) Friday-Sunday, October 9-11
Fall Lock-In Friday, October 23
Happening #132 (10th-12th grade) Friday-Sunday, November 20-22
11th Annual Christmas to the Street Fri., December 18; Youth Lock-In Sat., December 19; Barbeque Event
SPRING 2015 YOUTH EVENTS Mid-Winter at Camp Capers (Sr. High)
My Faith, My Life - 8th Grade Formation Offering
Friday-Sunday, January 8-10
Mid-Winter at Camp Capers (Jr. High)
My Faith, My Life, a study for all 8th graders, begins on September 13th and runs through April; it will also serve as our Youth Confirmation class. Participants will meet on Sunday mornings at 10.10am as well as participate in offsite outreach activities during the class. If you have any questions or want to be on the email list for the class please contact Todd Allison at tallison@stmarks-sa.org.
Friday-Sunday, January 15-17
Sunday Night LIVE Dates TBD
Pancake Supper& Parish Talent Show Tuesday, February 9
Youth In Action; Service Day Saturday, February 13
Happening #133 (Sr. High)
Want to get involved? Here are some ways! Acolytes are vital part of our Sunday worship for youth in
Friday-Sunday, March 4-6
Sr. High Mustang Island Retreat
grades 6 through 12 and are scheduled for both the 9.00am & 11.15am Sunday services throughout the year, as well as Christmas Eve, Holy Week, and special services like weddings. For more information please contact Todd Allison. Wednesday Night Fellowship (WNF) is the weekly gathering for all youth on Wednesday nights from 5-7pm. Youth gather for fun, fellowship, food, and meaningful discussions on topics impacting their daily lives. WNF meets during the school year from late August to early May. Christmas to the Street Led by the Youth Ministry program and with the help of volunteers, donations, and generous contributions from local businesses, Christmas to the Street has grown from 100 meals to providing over 1000 in three locations. Now entering our 11th year and continuing our partnership with Haven for Hope, Christmas to the Street continues to embrace the role St. Mark’s plays as a downtown church. For details on how you can join this amazing ministry please contact Todd Allison.
Monday-Wednesday, March 14-16
Holy Week Sunday – Sunday, March 20-March 27
Youth Confirmation (9am Service) Saturday, April 24
Senior Recognition/Youth Sunday Sunday, May 8 th
8 Annual Summer Outreach Weekend Friday-Sunday, June 3-5
Youth & Youth Choir Mission Trip to Washington D.C. July 6-11, 2015
Welcome, Rising 6th Graders! This fall all rising 6th graders will join the youth program on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. We are excited for you to be a part of the Youth Group. If you are not already on our email list please contact Todd, Erin and Amanda at youth@stmarks-sa.org so we can include you in news and schedules this fall. 9
Children’s Ministry News AmandaQuisenberry, Interim Director | Children & Family Ministry | stmarks@stmarks-sa.org
Children's Chapel Children's Chapel is a special time for kids to experience the Liturgy of the Word in a fun and instructive way during the 9.00am service. Designed for children ages 4 - 1st grade, children gather in the Jerusalem Chapel for while parents are participating in church. The children process out of the church, following a crucifer during the Sequence Hymn before The Gospel, and they return during The Peace. The kids will return and participate in the Eucharist with their family.
Children's Ministry invites all children ages 4-11 to Wonderful Wednesdays In 2015-2016, once a month, we will have the opportunity to grow in faith through fellowship with our community at St. Mark's. Come join in as we share an evening of food and fun! Mark your calendar, and plan to join us on these dates beginning at 5.30pm. (unless otherwise noted).
September 30 October 28 November 18 December 16 January 6 February 3 March 27 (Sunday) April 20 May 18 Watch for details in The Messenger!
Did you know that St. Mark's Children and Family Ministry has a Facebook page? “Like” it next time you’re on Facebook so you can keep up with what’s happening! https://www.facebook.com/stmarksfamily 10
Music News Joseph Causby, PhD | Organist & Choirmaster | jcausby@stmarks-sa.org
About Choral Evensong The practice of singing evening prayers is as old as the church itself. The Anglican service of Evening Prayer was a result of the joining of two of the ancient monastic offices—Vespers and Compline—into one service. This compilation was conceived by Thomas Cranmer, first Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury and author of the first Book of Common Prayer (1549). When prayers are set to music and sung, either by the congregation, or on behalf of the congregation by the choir, it is called “Evening Song” or “Evensong” in Elizabethan English. Choral Evensong is sung daily in many cathedrals and parish churches in England and throughout the Anglican Communion. Consider the possibility that at any given moment, somewhere on earth, someone, in some language, is offering up a voice of sung prayer. Choral Evensong is essentially a service of reflection— of leaving oneself open that God may speak to us through psalms and readings and canticles, which are at the core of the service. The traditional canticles of Evensong are the Magnificat (the song of Mary, on hearing that she would be the Mother of Christ) and the Nunc dimittis (the song of Simeon on recognizing the Christ Child in the Temple.) Choral settings of these
Choir Schedule Wednesdays 4.30-5pm: 5-6pm: 5-6pm: 7-8pm:
Royal School of Church Music Voice for Life training Novice Choir, grades 1-2 Boy and Girl Choristers Youth Choir
Thursdays: 5.30-6.30pm: Treble Choir (auditioned - begins August 26) 6.30-8.45pm: St. Mark's Choir (adults begin on August 20)
canticles have been written by major composers since the sixteenth century and continue to be written today. You may find that this service is a bit less “interactive” from a congregational standpoint. Since meditation and reflection can be an important part of worship, it is the choir’s hope that the congregation will join wholeheartedly into the spirit of this service. Evensong is one of the great treasures of our Anglican heritage, and it is our desire that this service, offered within this hallowed space, may allow you to forget the ceaseless activity of daily life and obtain a measure of tranquility and peace. Please join us on October 25 at 5.00pm as the choir sings music of Williamson, Leighton, Howells, and Finzi.
Music from St. Mark’s 2015-16 Season All performances are at 5.00pm unless otherwise indicated. Music from St. Mark’s is always free and is made possible by the generous support of the members of the St. Cecilia Guild. September 27: A service of Taize at the University of the Incarnate Word- with harp, flute, and our children’s and youth choirs. October 25: Choral Evensong November 8: Remembrance Sunday December 6: Advent Lessons and Carols January 6: A service for the Feast of the Epiphany Wednesday at 6.00pm February 21: A concert at the University of the Incarnate Word for the season of Lent (featuring the Tallis ‘Lamentations of Jeremiah’) March 6: Choral Evensong with guest conductor Wilma Jensen April 24: Fiesta Concert- Benjamin Britten’s ‘Noye’s Fludde’ featuring the combined choirs of St. Mark’s with orchestra and guests from Judson Montessori School and St. Paul’s Episcopal Montessori School. May 15: Our own Jacquelyn Matava will present a solo recital of art songs and arias.
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The Messenger (USPS 514-020) Published Monthly ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 315 East Pecan Street, San Antonio, Texas, 78205 Telephone: (210) 226-2426 Periodicals Postage paid at San Antonio, Texas POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE MESSENGER c/o ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 315 E. Pecan Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205 Rector: The Rev. Beth Knowlton Editor: The Rev. Carol Morehead e-mail articles cmorehead@stmarks-sa.org
Article deadline is 3rd Friday of each month
Café Kairos Menus Join us on Wednesday and Thursday evenings beginning at 5.00pm for dinner! Meals are $8 each, and all proceeds go back into the ministries of St. Mark’s. October 7 & 8 ,2015 : Spaghetti with Meatballs Caesar Salad Steamed Vegetables Garlic Breadsticks Cheesecake Bars
October 14 & 15 , 2015 : Oven Roasted Baked Chicken Spinach Casserole Twice baked potatoes Dinner Rolls Chocolate Cake October 21 & 22, 2015: Beef Enchiladas Rice Beans Garden Salad Tres Leche Cake
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October 28 & 29, 015 : Garden Salad Baked Chicken Strip Macaroni & Cheese Steamed Broccoli Rolls Cupcakes