Seasons of the Spirit, Pentecost 2 // Fall 2016

SPIRIT S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST

2 | FA L L 2 0 1 6

Divine intervention

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n the midst of a summer full of troubling headlines, a story appeared in the New York Times about a humble man who had just died at the age of 83. Ben Wichmann had lived alone in a tiny, single-room-occupancy apartment above a hamburger restaurant at 74th Street and 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. His rent was $10/day, he just eked by on Social Security, and he owned almost nothing. A medical procedure had rendered him unable to speak, so Ben had

By Gary D. Jones to communicate by scribbling notes on scraps of paper. But although Ben was alone, penniless, and mute, he spread kindness and generosity throughout his neighborhood wherever he went, and he never lacked for friends.

Ben had plenty of reasons to be unhappy in a city where so many have so much.

But people who knew him said he was unreservedly happy, radiating cheer. He was often seen bending down to pick up litter as he tidied the neighborhood, he delighted in petting people’s dogs, and he luxuriated in the city’s flowers. “He charmed people,” one man said. “He always smiled. He never complained. He was just wonderful.”

Late one night, the doorman who had the midnight shift at a nearby apartment building was watching Ben picking up litter, when Ben caught his eye and waved.

The doorman responded, “How are you?” Ben was clutching his scraps of paper and scratched out a few words, “Hi, my name is Bernhardt but call me Ben. I can’t talk, but I can hear.” And thus began a friendship. The doorman was Hispanic with only rudimentary English which was why he was consigned to the midnight shift, and Ben undertook to tutor him. If the doorman mispronounced a word, Ben would scribble out how to say it, which syllables to emphasize, and what words rhymed with it. When the doorman’s English improved, he got promoted to the day shift.

The New York Times said Ben Wichmann’s life was an important New York story, “because he didn’t have a lot and yet he gave a lot…. The city can be cold and aloof, and you can live crunched amid its population and remain lonely and overlooked.” What Ben gave to others is what ended up radiating from the people around him – kindness, generosity, and a newfound determination to make the world a better place.

It’s hard for me to conjure a better image for the role of a church like St. Stephen’s: a gentle man who lived alone in a tiny apartment among busy, wealthy and anxious people; a man who delighted in beauty and spent his days tidying and magnifying that beauty; a man who befriended everyone he met and paid special

attention to the poor; a man who had almost nothing and yet smiled constantly, as if he had everything – it’s just like God to use such a life to show us the way. And I think you’ll find this way, this truth, and this life reflected throughout this edition of our quarterly newsletter, which describes a new year of gracious ministries.

Please join in wherever you feel drawn.

Surely the headlines today remind us why so many people are feeling anxious.

Our world can seem cold, harsh, threatening, and out of control. What is it going to take to heal our world? Where are our moorings? Where are our reassuring anchors? Many of us look to Jesus for the answer to questions like these, as we should, and he faithfully reminds us, “As the Father sent me, so now I send you.”

It turns out that we are God’s answer. Not the president, the congress, the military. Given the magnitude of the problem, we understandably look for divine intervention, only to be reminded that God has chosen ordinary, human agency for such intervention, with a preference, it seems, for humble folk of modest means. We might question God’s strategy on this one. It might not seem like a very effective way to deal with the major problems facing the world. Certainly most of us feel as if we simply do not have the power or resources to handle this one.

And that’s usually when a person like Ben Wichmann comes along and says something like, “I know the need is tremendous, even overwhelming. But here,” he says, smiling, “I have five loaves and two fish.” ✤

In this issue:

Pilgrimage: a journey into the unexpected Exciting plans in Family Ministry Poetry series debuts Do volunteers really make a difference?

A stellar line-up of speakers The 2016-17 calendar New groups and Bible studies Summer at St. Stephen’s: a scrapbook The gifts of musical expression Music Makers, Round Two Rally Day is now Rally Days

2 4 4 6 8 10 13 14 17 17 20

On the road

with the unexpected and the impossible

Michael Sweeney

Reflections on our youth pilgrimage in California

Carmel Mission

T

he day before our youth pilgrims departed for California in June, we read through the itinerary together. Our days had been written in a book (well, a Word document printed and stapled like a book). On Monday we’d arrive in Los Angeles at 10:20 a.m. On Tuesday, we’d stop for groceries at Von’s on State Street in Santa Barbara. Wednesday afternoon, we’d visit Butterfly Beach. And so on. It was all very specific. Of greatest importance to many was our

By Michael Sweeney Friday evening dinner at the famous In-N-Out Burger.

After showing the group our plan, though, I reminded them that our trip would not go according to it. We closed the meeting with the intention of welcoming whatever God had planned for our pilgrimage, and we read together the Thomas Merton prayer that begins, “My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going.”

A pilgrimage is a spiritual journey, but so too, of course, is life itself. Pilgrimage then is an attempt to live life more consciously—to open the eyes of our eyes, and the ears of our ears—to be ready, open, and willing to receive each moment as fully as possible. This often means letting go of some cherished outcome, the thing we expected or hoped would happen, in favor of reality. Because God inhabits reality, and is reality, the trip’s most powerful moments were the unexpected ones.

I had expected to sleep on the 5:30 a.m. flight from Richmond to Atlanta. I’d woken up at 3:00 a.m. and had been looking forward to my nap since that same time. I was upset to learn that I had been assigned an aisle seat—by far the worst seat for napping (and everything else). But I took a deep breath and told myself that I could sleep anywhere in my current state. That theory was soon tested by the young man in the window seat. He had never flown and was very excited about flying and about talking about flying. I was only excited about napping.

But something surprising happened. With just a little openness from me, a lot of energy from my neighbor, and God’s grace, I rediscovered flying. I remembered the

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first time I flew. I realized that it’s still pretty amazing if you pay attention. I saw the amazing sunrise that I would have slept through. And I shared it all with the fellow pilgrim who had lent me his eyes.

That’s how the trip began—God reminding me that what I’d said about the itinerary and our plans was true (even for the trip leader!).

Of course, it’s not always so easy to accept the unexpected, to find the reason or a silver lining. Some surprises are truly painful. We are terribly aware of that in the wake of this summer: Orlando, St. Paul, Baton Rouge, Dallas.

Towards the end of the trip, we worshiped in San Francisco’s beautiful Grace Cathedral. Dr. Alan Jones’ sermon, speaking of what had occurred in Orlando—and of our more mundane, everyday challenges—preached that the life’s work of every human being is choosing love over fear. It was a stirring sermon, and it dovetailed so perfectly with our pilgrimage we wondered if he’d perhaps been hiding in one of the duffle bags, taking notes the whole time.

We left the service inspired and on schedule. We carefully arranged a group photo on the steps of the cathedral. I remember feeling annoyed that a bright green bag from the gift shop—held by someone with hands behind the back—protruded from the group like an alien appendage. That actually bothered me. That’s how close things were to perfect. I almost made us shoot the photo again, but I was eager to get to the Chinese restaurant and the Golden Gate Bridge.

As we went to our three separate vans, I stopped to buy a coffee. I had reached the front of the line and was pulling out my wallet when Dial, one of the other leaders, came into the shop with a look on her face that made my insides go cold. “They broke into our van,” she said, breathless. “They took all our stuff.” I left the coffee behind.

The girls were crouched next to the van, crying, still in shock. The passenger’s window was in thousands of pieces, some of them on the ground, some in the frame, clinging to a crumbling mosaic of broken glass.

SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

There are different kinds of unexpected things. Some are easier to reconcile than others. This was the first, and only, time on the trip that another human being intentionally harmed us. It wasn’t an accident. It wasn’t a well-meaning but unwanted intrusion. It was violence. No one was hurt, and still it was impossible to look at the shattered window without feeling attacked.

YOUTH PILGRIMAGE IN CALIFORNIA

The pilgrims experienced normal emotions: anger, fear, loss, a sense of injustice.

But it’s broad daylight! We were in church!

So many things that shouldn’t happen do. How do we make sense of it? How do we choose love over fear? Is it possible to follow Jesus? To forgive seventy-seven times? To love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you? (Matthew 18:22 and 5:44) I don’t know what the answer is if not practice. The world desperately needs this next generation to become adept practitioners of love and forgiveness. But it usually has to start small. We have to look inwards, identify the things that outrage us and begin there. If I can’t be assigned the aisle seat without an internal cry of why is this happening to me?! what hope do I have of forgiving another human being who actually means to harm me?

This is what it means to be a pilgrim. This is what animates my life and my ministry with young people—in Richmond as in California. We are all on a journey together. We can learn how to choose love over fear. And our children can help to teach us.

That Sunday night in California, we gathered around the campfire for our evening prayer, faces glowing. We came to the part in the service where prayers of intercession are invited. Like good Episcopalians, the young pilgrims rarely spoke anything aloud during this time. But on that night, one of the girls who’d had some things stolen from her asked our prayers for the person or people who had broken into the van.

To say that “God works in mysterious ways” is cliché, and sometimes bad or lazy theology, too. But it is true that life is beyond our controlling, and God beyond our comprehension. And when we are most alive, most open to God’s presence, we are capable of doing unexpected and even impossible things. Perhaps even loving our enemies and praying for those who would do us harm. ✤

The group gathers in front of a Giant Redwood in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

A pilgrimage is a spiritual journey, but so too, of course, is life itself.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS Participants in the June pilgrimage to California wrote about their experiences, what they learned, their highs and lows. There is so much more where this came from; read more from these wonderful young people and their traveling companions at ststephensRVA.org/youthblog.

BOBBY: First off, I’d like to say that this is my first pilgrimage and first time camping. I didn’t think I would enjoy camping much, but I was wrong and I actually love it! I also didn’t think I’d talk to many of the other people on the pilgrimage, but I ended up getting closer to them in less than a day. I feel like I have also gotten closer to God by praying together and individually with the 20-minute silent time we have to ourselves. My favorite thing we have done so far is going to the Carmel Mission. I really loved this place because wherever I went in the mission I felt welcomed and stressless. The sanctuary was also so beautiful because of the architecture and artwork it contains. I’m going to miss a lot about this pilgrimage, but the one thing I will miss most of all is hanging out with all of the people on this trip all day everyday.

Home sweet home: one of the group’s campsites

SARAH: Who knew that a day filled with so much silence and peace could be filled with equal amounts of laughs and great conversations? Not only have there been plenty of fun car rides, but also many opportunities for self-reflection, prayer, and thinking. I’ve had time to think about how blessed and thankful I am for the life I have and the opportunities I am presented with. For example: this trip. If I were at home right now, I imagine I’d be on the couch, feeling sorry for myself. Instead I’m driving on Route 1, watching the sunset, feeling humbled.

CHARLOTTE: Today has been a great day. I really enjoyed the mission this morning and also eating lunch in the cute town (San Luis Obispo). The 2-hour drive to the campground was definitely worth it. The view driving up into Big Sur was amazing.

We had the windows down, blasting music and enjoying the view. We stopped to see some sea elephants on the beach. That was really fun because I had never seen anything like it before. The last place we stopped before the camp site was this site where we got to see a waterfall and walk above the water on a bridge. The view was spectacular. I can’t believe I’ve gotten to see so many amazing views.

ANNA: I leave California with several new experiences, things I’ve never done before, from pumping gas, to camping, to looking at things from a different view point. I met a boy in a coffee shop who is away from his family, working three jobs to send money home, and is totally alone. Meeting him made me realize how fortunate I am, and feel sorry for so many things I’ve taken for granted in life. The trip was truly an amazing opportunity and I’m happy that I took part.

DANIEL: The entire trip was fantastic. There was beautiful scenery I cannot describe in words, amazing things I did and people I met; but the thing that really stuck out was the way the group changed. I barely knew some of the people on this trip, some not at all, but by the time we were on the plane home, I think we all felt like a sort of extended family. The way we all cared for each other without ever getting angry or snapping at each other is awesome. Like I said, I feel like these people are part of my family. I feel like I know these people better than some of my closest friends, and most definitely better than myself. So if I had to choose one high, it would be the way the group grew and changed with each other.

S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

Pilgrims pose for a photo in front of Grace Cathedral in San Francisco following the Sunday service–just moments before discovering one of their vehicles had been broken into and their belongings stolen.

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Family Ministry at St. Stephen’s:

It’s about connection

By Michael Sweeney

A

t the heart of Christianity, of Jesus’ teaching, is the truth of our interconnectedness.

We are all one. We are branches of the one Vine. And so it is often through relationship with loved ones that we become aware of the divine life we share.

John O’Donohue describes this dynamic in his book Beauty: The Invisible Embrace: If you listen to your affection for someone, you can sense that there is more than the two of you there. There is also present a third force—the affection itself as a threshold where your two lives meet and engage each other. This finds primal expression in the notion of the Trinity. The affection between Son and Father is so utterly alive as to be not merely a bond but another person, the Holy Spirit.

The purpose of the church then, and especially the focus we call “Family Ministries,” is to create opportunities for soul-nourishing connection, and to name it as O’Donohue does—to remind us that we are participating in the dance of the Holy Spirit every day in our homes.

In the coming year, Family Ministries at St. Stephen’s will be focused more than ever on nurturing community and connection. It’s an important time for this.

Media coverage of shootings, terrorist attacks, and the 2016 election will continue to feed us the language of division and fear, us and them. Meanwhile, social media will continue to appeal to our deep, spiritual longing for connection without providing the real thing.

Here is a preview of our new offerings for the fall: A new gathering place Where do your most meaningful, memorable conversations with your children happen? So many parents say that it’s in the car or the kitchen or the backyard—a comfortable place, where the child knows that she has her parent’s full attention. It’s about space and time. This fall, the former choir room (the space at the Three Chopt end of the parish house) will become a new gathering place where youth feel welcomed like the prodigal son. On weekdays after school (Monday-Thursday, 3:30-8:30 p.m.), one of our youth ministry staff—Sarah-Keel Crews, Allison Seay, or Michael Sweeney—will be present, available for conversation, greeting youth who stop by to have a snack, meet up with friends, or do homework. We are especially excited to welcome Allison, associate for religion and the arts, to the youth ministry team. This space emerged partly from her vision for a place where meaningful conversations emerge naturally thanks to a comfortable setting and caring, dedicated listeners like her. The space will also serve as a café for the entire community on Sunday mornings and when young people are at school.

Many Parents, One Vine | Sundays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Room 14 Many Parents, One Vine is a staff- and peer-led parenting support group that addresses topics relevant to family life in the 21st century. This is a space to grow in faith and connect with other parents in mutual affirmation.

We believe that raising children is a cooperative, not competitive, enterprise. Together, connected to the vine, we are stronger parents. The facilitator rotates and the forum is casual with opportunity for dialogue and questions. This group meets from September through May and is drop-in friendly. Often, this series is augmented by suggested reading. This fall, the first five weeks (September 18 – October 16) will loosely follow Fred Rogers’ concise, yet profound, book Many Ways to say I Love You: Wisdom for Parents and Children from Mister Rogers.

Over the subsequent five weeks (October 23 – November 20) we’ll prepare for Rob Bell’s visit to St. Stephen’s (November 14) by looking at Rob and Kristen Bell’s collaborative work The Zimzum of Love: A New Way of Understanding Marriage.

Parables from Parenthood | October 20 from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Urban Farmhouse (in Scott’s Addition) This is the first installment in what we hope will become an ongoing series. Five parents from the St. Stephen’s community will be invited to share a 10-minute story on a particular theme related to parenthood. There will be a 30-minute break between the 3rd and 4th stories for people to order food and drinks and connect with each other. Check out the Moth Radio Hour, available also as the Moth Podcast, for an example of this powerful and fun storytelling format (http://themoth.org). The theme on October 20 will be the dinner table, and storytellers will include Courtney Ferrell and Michael Sweeney. ✤

New poetry series begins in October “I think that poetry readings are vital to the emotional health of a community because they offer us new ways of thinking, they recharge the imagination, and they remind us of the value of listening,” says Allison Seay, who joined the staff in August as associate for religion and the arts.

Allison, a former English teacher at Collegiate School, quotes an article from Edutopia, ‘Five Reasons Why We Need Poetry in Schools’ by Elena Aguilar, “It’s the most kinesthetic of all literature, it’s physical and full-bodied which activates your heart and soul and sometimes bypasses the traps of our minds and the outcome is that poetry moves us.”

Allison says, “I like thinking about the riches of poetry that way; they are universal and unifying and offer us a way to think about the unexplained, the difficult, and the otherwise unsayable. For me, poetry is not a luxury, but a necessity.”

This fall, St. Stephen’s will inaugurate a poetry reading series, bringing award-winning poets to our community on the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. They are free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

On October 6, Jennifer Whitaker will join us from Greensboro, North Carolina.

The University of Wisconsin Press, publisher of her first collection of poems, says of her work, “Fairy tales both familiar and obscure create a threshold, and The Blue Hour pulls us over it. With precise language and rich detail, these poems unflinchingly create an eerie world marked by abuse, asking readers not just to bear witness but to try to understand how we make meaning in the face of the meaningless violence.”

Then, on November 3, Dave Lucas of Cleveland, Ohio, will travel to Richmond.

He received his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Virginia and a Ph.D. in English language and literature from the University of Michigan. Of his first collection, Weather, one review explains, “The weather of these poems arises from both the lush light of the natural world and the hard rain of industry. Poem by poem, the book surveys the majesty and ruin of landscape and lakefront, paying tribute to the shifting seasons of a city, of a terrain, and of those who dwell there.”

And on December 1, Lisa Russ Spaar will read here, a visit that’s especially exciting to Allison.

Spaar is the author/editor of more than 10 books of poetry and criticism, including Monticello in Mind: 50 Contemporary Poems on Jefferson (University of Virginia Press,

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Dave Lucas

Lisa Russ Spaar

Jennifer Whitaker

2016) and the forthcoming Orexia: Poems (Persea Books, 2017), her fifth poetry collection. She is a professor in the Creative Writing Program of the Department of English at the University of Virginia.

Her honors include a Rona Jaffe Award, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and the Library of Virginia Award for Poetry. Spaar’s poems have appeared or are forthcoming in the Best American Poetry and Pushcart Prize Anthology series and are frequently reprinted in Poetry Daily and Verse Daily. Recently, her work has appeared in Poetry, Boston Review, IMAGE, Virginia Quarterly Review, and many other journals. Among her awards for teaching are an All University Teaching Award, an Outstanding Faculty Award from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, the 2013-2014 Faculty Award of the Jefferson Scholars Foundation, and a National Endowment for the Humanities Distinguished Professorship appointment for 2016 - 2018. She was a 2014 Finalist for the National Book Circle Critics Award for Excellence in Reviewing and one of three national finalists for the 2016 Cherry Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Allison adds, “What doesn’t translate on paper is her well of contemplation and of gentleness, her generosity of spirit. She is magnificent.”

As announced in the spring, poet Jane Hirshfield will be here on March 27, 2017.

Other poets in this series will be announced soon.

Even if you don’t think you “get” poetry, treat yourself to these opportunities to hear some of our finest poets read from their work. “You don’t have to be ‘into’ poetry for it to be valuable,” says Gary Jones. “Just as you don’t have to be ‘into’ Bach or Beethoven for that music to be valuable. The rewards of giving oneself to these things and allowing them to work on you can be life-changing.” ✤ SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

Rebuilding homes,

sustaining families R

ebuilding Together Richmond (formerly known as Christmas in April) is a volunteer- based program that repairs and rehabilitates the homes of low-income,

By Deb Lawrence elderly people who own their homes but are struggling to maintain them. The goal of the work is allow these homeowners to safely remain in their homes by making needed repairs. And each year, on the last Saturday of April, volunteers do just that in 50 homes, taking part in a building/repair blitz focusing on one community in Richmond.

On April 30, more than 20 St. Stephen’s volunteers

gathered at 7:30 a.m. to begin work on a house in the Broad Rock Boulevard area of Richmond’s Southside.

The home’s many problem areas included the kitchen floor, windows, gutters, both front and back porches, and the front door. Several rooms needed painting, as well. The back porch proved to be the biggest task of the day, as our team, ably led by Matthew Mika, actually demolished the existing porch and erected a new deck in its place for the homeowner—all in one day!

When the last volunteers left the home around 9:30 p.m., everyone was exhausted but uplifted by the changes and improvements made to the property.

The homeowner, a single woman who lost her husband a few years ago, was in tears several times throughout the day. She was in disbelief that a group of strangers would spend more than 12 hours in her home making needed repairs to improve her life. She

said the St. Stephen’s volunteers were a gift from God and that she would be forever grateful for the work they performed. Now, she will be able to remain in her home safely, thanks to the work of our rebuild team.

The Team Lisa Beck, Paul Brown, Beth Crews, John Estes, Kristen Estes, Megan Graber, Sue Gray, David Hathcock, Mac Hines, Warren Kolbert, Matthew Mika, Pam O’Berry, Anne Owens, Isaac Perkins, David Reynolds, Vincent Robertson, Earl Roney, Dave Satterfield, Brad Scaggs, Kathrin Weis, Meade Williams, Nelson Williams, Mitt Younts Interested in becoming a part of this annual event, or another rebuilding ministry at St. Stephen’s? Please contact me in the church office, 804.288.2867 or dlawrence@ststephensRVA.org. ✤

The homeowner, a single woman who lost her husband a few years ago, was in tears several times throughout the day. She was in disbelief that a group of strangers would spend more than 12 hours in her home making needed repairs to improve her life.

Bring your creature, great or small

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The Blessing of the Animals service is traditionally held near (or on) the day we commemorate St. Francis of Assisi. Though St. Francis can be remembered for many things, including abandoning a life of luxury to take a lifelong vow of poverty, and establishing several religious orders, he is most popularly associated with animals. At our service—held outdoors, weather permitting—you are invited to bring your dogs, cats, gerbils, fish, rabbits, or other pets to receive a blessing during this brief service of prayers and hymns. ✤ S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

Briget Ganske

his year’s beloved Blessing of the Animals service will take place Saturday, October 1 at 10 a.m. We began holding the service on Saturday last year (it was previously offered on Sunday afternoon) in order to include the many pets who come to the Farmers Market @ St. Stephen’s with their locavores.

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Volunteers do make a difference An Anna Julia Cooper School graduate, now at Christchurch, is grateful to his St. Stephen’s tutor

W

hen you see notices in the Spirit, the eSpirit, or in this publication about volunteer opportunities with our East End partners— Fairfield Elementary School, the Peter Paul

By Sarah Bartenstein Development Center, Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School—perhaps you wonder what it would be like to take part. And you also might wonder if your participation would make any difference.

Cotesworth Pinckney, a retired attorney, a member of St. Stephen’s, and a volunteer at Anna Julia Cooper and Peter Paul, can answer the first question: “When you tutor someone like Philip Robinson, it’s a pleasure.”

Philip, now a rising sophomore at Christchurch School, can answer the second: “Yes.”

As an elementary school student, Philip attended the tuition-free St. Andrew’s School in Oregon Hill, a church-based institution whose board has included numerous St. Stephen’s parishioners. After a year at Good Shepherd School on Richmond’s South Side, he attended Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School in 7th and 8th grades. This middle school serving East End families was founded in part by St. Stephen’s Church, and the relationship between the school and our parish includes ongoing financial, volunteer, and board support.

“I loved it there,” he recalls. “I still go to visit.” In fact, over spring break he spent time at the school helping his former teachers with various tasks.

During his years at AJCES, Philip met with Cotes every week to get help with homework—math, primarily, which was a challenging subject for Philip.

(You wouldn’t know that now—he studied Algebra II during his first year at Christchurch.)

That wasn’t their first meeting, though. Philip first met his mentor as a second grader, when Cotes volunteered at Peter Paul Development Center and Philip took part in the after-school program. Cotes was assigned to tutor Philip for an hour once a week, but he ended up staying longer, often waiting with Philip until his mother picked him up.

When Philip was 10 years old, his father died of a heart ailment. His mother asked Cotes to continue to help Philip, seeing him as an important influence in her son’s life.

According to Philip, “Mr. Pinckney was more of a mentor than a tutor. He taught me a lot.”

When Philip got to middle school, his mother was diagnosed with bipolar depression, a condition that made it difficult for her to care for Philip and his older sister, who is now in college. Coping with his mother’s illness “was a lot to handle in middle school,” the young man admits, and even now he lives with an aunt in Richmond when he’s not away at school.

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Sarah Bartenstein

Last spring, toward the end of his freshman year at Christchurch, Philip sat in the school’s lunchroom and talked about his journey to this school on the Rappahannock River, one of the Church Schools in the Diocese of Virginia.

Philip loves being a student at Christchurch School.

Fortunately, Philip had some great people in his corner—other family members, the faculty and staff of Anna Julia Cooper, St. Stephen’s parishioners like Jim Price, Betsy Fauntleroy, and Margie Couch—and Cotes Pinckney.

“A volunteer can absolutely change a student’s life,” says Mike Maruca, head of Anna Julia Cooper School. “Cotes is a perfect example of that. He’s been faithful, encouraging, and not afraid to truly get involved in ways that can be inconvenient and, at times, discouraging, given the challenges of our kids’ lives.”

Philip was admitted to Christchurch School.

When meeting Philip for the first time, Christchurch headmaster John E. Byers recalls that the student “looked at me, shook my hand with a firm hand­ shake, and had something pleasant to say.” Philip says this was something that Cotes emphasized with him and he’s taken it to heart. He says he tries to make eye contact, and as he is shaking hands, to have a big smile on his face.

As we talked in the lunchroom, Alexandra Byers, who teaches 11th grade English at the school (and who happens to be married to the headmaster) sat down, and Philip demonstrated exactly what he’d been talking about as he said in an animated voice, “Hi, Mrs. Byers!”

These qualities are put to good use in Philip’s role as a tour guide for prospective students. His enthusiasm for the school helps, too.

Asked about his favorite thing there, Philip responds, “Everything! The students, the river—I like to just sit

by the river when I have free time—the classes, the teachers.”

He says his teachers are “nice,” and then he adds, “And they push you. Sometimes I need a push.”

Cotes remembers that, too. He says that working with Cotes Pinckney Philip sometimes meant giving him a nudge to get him back on the right track, but he remarks that the young man has always been goal-oriented, a trait that will help him succeed.

“Mr. Pinckney is a straightforward guy,” Philip says.

“He’s fun but he makes sure I’m doing the best I can and making the most of my opportunities.”

When they hang out, Cotes takes him to baseball games or to the Science Museum. He’s been to see Philip play basketball for Christchurch.

Philip’s athletic pursuits don’t stop with basketball.

He ran cross country last fall to get into shape for basketball season, played lacrosse for the first time last spring, and this fall he plans to play football.

Though Cotes chuckles at Philip’s ambition to play professional basketball, being at Christchurch seems to be helping the student explore other paths. When he first got there, his main academic interest was science—a major strength in the school’s curriculum— but now he puts English and writing at the top of his SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

list. For a school whose alumni include two Pulitzerwinning authors (William Styron and Lewis Puller), a former chief theater critic for the New York Times (Vincent Canby) and an ACC Sportswriting Hall of Fame inductee (Bill Brill), that’s not a bad choice.

His goal now is to get into the honors program in English. Based on Cotes’ characterizations of him as “disciplined and committed,” it’s a good bet he’ll make it. Cotes also calls him a “remarkably good communicator.”

The stage is set for golf, bluegrass, and fun

And college? “I’ve never not thought about going to college. My big goal—my dream—is to go to UVa.” But he’s got more to do at Christchurch before that can happen.

When asked, “What do you want your high school experience to be like?” one graduating 8th grader named Tre-quan replied, “I want my high school experience to be a challenge. If I have a challenge, it will push me to do better and make better decisions.”

Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School is altering the trajectory – in a positive way – for the students who spend their middle school years there. Most go on to independent schools or to rigorous or specialized programs in public schools. Here are the destinations of the most recent group of graduating eighth graders.

Armstrong High School – 1 Benedictine College Preparatory – 2 Church Hill Academy – 4 Collegiate School – 2 Fork Union Military Academy – 2 Franklin Military Academy – 1 George Wythe High School – 1 Richmond Community School – 1 Thomas Jefferson High School – 2 Thomas Jefferson International Baccalaureate program – 3 Trinity Episcopal School – 2 St. Catherine’s School – 1 Steward School – 1 Varina High School – 1 The positive outcomes continue after high school as well. As you may have read in the Richmond Times-Dispatch last spring, former AJCES students not only graduate from high schools like those listed above, but they are being accepted to four-year colleges and military service. We are so proud of these young people, and grateful to all who make the school the unique and hope-filled place it is.

Are you interested in becoming involved at AJCES, or our other major partners in the East End, Fairfield Court Elementary School and the Peter Paul Development Center? We have numerous volunteer opportunties at all three institutions with flexible schedules and duties.

The start of the school year is a great time to begin work with these students, but your help is needed and valuable at any time during the year. For more information, contact Deb Lawrence in the parish office. ✤

T

wo annual events will be here soon, and you don’t want to miss out on the fun. Both are designed to raise additional funding for our outreach partners, over and above what we fund through your pledges and the annual budget, while providing fun and fellowship for members, friends, guests, and people from throughout the community. Be sure to invite your neighbors, extended family, and colleagues to these community-wide events.

There’s still time to be part of St. Stephen’s Outreach Golf Tournament on Thursday, September 15. The tournament will take place at Meadowbrook Country Club, with registration and lunch at noon, and a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. Arrange a foursome with friends or colleagues, or register individually and we will team you up with other players. It’s an afternoon of fun and good-natured competition, all to support outreach. Don’t play golf? Many sponsorship opportunities are available that will provide important support to our outreach ministries. Information and registration are available at ststephensRVA.org/golf and at the outreach table near the elevator in the parish house (near Palmer Hall).

The very next day, Friday, September 16, the Bluegrass Bash returns, 5-8 p.m. in the parking lot on the Somerset Road side of the parish house. We are excited about the return of the nationally-known Rebecca Frazier and the Hit and Run Band as our headliner. Will Perkinson and Cook County Bluegrass will open, so the stage will be filled with excellent music and local connections. We will have food and beverages available for purchase – food trucks, local beer and wine as well as water and soft drinks – and free activities for kids. Chairs and blankets are welcome, but no coolers, please. This fundraiser has become a not-to-be-missed event, so don’t delay in purchasing your ticket. Tickets are on sale through our Web site, ststephensRVA.org/bluegrass and in the parish office, and you receive a discount when you purchase your tickets in advance. Bring the whole family—bring the whole neighborhood! ✤

Briget Ganske

ANNA JULIA COOPER GRADUATES: WHERE DO THEY GO NEXT?

Dancing is encouraged at the Bluegrass Bash (above); Rebecca Frazier and the Hit and Run Band return (below).

WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO? The money raised by the annual golf tournament (pictured) and the Bluegrass Bash enables the vestry and its outreach committee to award larger grants to our outreach partners than would otherwise be possible. Those who apply for funding from our outreach budget can receive more than our budget would provide, thanks to these supplemental funds. Here is a representative sampling of the recipients.

Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School CARITAS Communities in Schools Peter Paul Development Center Rebuilding Together Richmond ROSMY St. Stephen’s Refugee Resettlement St. Stephen’s Food Ministry Virginia Supportive Housing Mission trips and ministries in the U.S. and abroad

Briget Ganske

As for the man who helped him stay on the path that got him to Christchurch School, Philip is grateful, and encourages others to consider working with a student at Fairfield, Peter Paul, or Anna Julia Cooper. “Volunteering at a school like that—that can change a kid’s life forever. It might not seem like it all the time, but on the inside, that kid really appreciates it.” ✤

Briget Ganske

Though he admits it’s hard to be away from home at times because, “I’m concerned about my mom,” Philip loves his life at Christchurch. “All these guys are my brothers, and all these girls are my sisters.”

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Speakers series opens with discussion of income inequality

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t. Stephen’s is known for the quality, breadth and depth of speakers who visit the parish, including renowned theologians, writers, poets, and others. Our speakers series has become a resource not only for our own church but for the larger church and the community.

Past speakers have included Barbara Brown Taylor, John Philip Newell, Harvey Cox, Anne Lamott, Mary Oliver, Jon Meacham, Becca Stevens, Martin Laird, Lauren Winner, Martin Smith, the brothers of the Society of St. John the Evangelist, and many others.

The 2016-17 program year promises to be another excellent season for guest speakers.

The line-up includes a former U.S. Treasury Secretary, an astrophysicist who talks about faith, and a sometimes-controversial writer and minister. There will be familiar faces returning to St. Stephen’s but in different settings than before. There will be ripped-from-the-headline topics and reflections on ancient traditions.

All events are open to the general public. You do not have to be a member of St. Stephen’s to attend. Many, though not all, of these events have a suggested donation, but please do not ever allow this to be a barrier to your attendance. Reserve your place by visiting ststephensRVA.org/speakers, or stop by the parish office.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2016, 7 p.m.

John Snow & Dan Matthews Economic Inequality, Social Unrest and Division: A Time for Hope and Healing St. Stephen’s will begin an exciting new year of guest speakers with a compelling duo: former Secretary of the Treasury John Snow, and the Rev. Daniel P. Matthews, rector emeritus of Trinity Church, Wall Street. Join us for a thoughtful presentation and discussion on the American and global economic situation with two people who have seen tremendous changes in the economy up close. When you register for this event, you’ll have the opportunity to submit a question for these two speakers; we’ll send questions to them to ponder as they prepare their remarks.

Ask a question Pose a question for our speakers about income inequality. When you register for John Snow and Dan Matthews’ appearance (ststephensRVA.org/snowmatthews), you come to a space in which to ask a question. Please take this opportunity to help shape our speakers’ presentations.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2016, 9 a.m.

Paul Wallace Two Books, One World This astrophysicist and professor holds a PhD in experimental nuclear physics from Duke University...AND an MDiv from Candler School of Theology. The selfdescribed science nerd is also a follower of Jesus. His book, Stars Beneath Us, blends story and theory, biblical texts and scientific concepts, and his workshop will explore the relation between science and the Bible.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2016, 7 p.m.

John Philip Newell & Rob Bell Two of the most significant and influential voices in Christianity in the 21st century will be at St. Stephen’s Church together. While each is well-known for different

expressions of the faith, until last February, they’d never talked to each other before.

Their conversation on a “Robcast” (a Rob Bell podcast) inspired Gary Jones to invite them to speak together in person at St. Stephen’s.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Martin Laird Advent Retreat This popular speaker and teacher on the gifts of contemplation, the author of Into the Silent Land and A Sunlit Absence, will return to St. Stephen’s to lead an Advent retreat.

Fr. Martin is at work on a new book.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2016, 10:10 a.m. AND 12:30 p.m.

Greg Garrett Seeking the Sacred in Harry Potter This writer and professor will show that, far from being mere children’s entertainment or even a gateway into the occult, this saga (written by a Christian) is a powerfully spiritual tale that engages such concepts as community, compassion, redemption, and sacrifice.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017, 7 p.m.

Barbara Brown Taylor An Evening with Barbara Brown Taylor The author of Learning to Walk in the Dark, An Altar in the World, Leaving Church, and other books, will return in February. She spoke here in 2014 to a standing room only audience in the church. Be sure to reserve your seat right away!

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, MARCH 17 & 18, 2017 Pittman McGehee Lenten Retreat J. Pittman McGehee is an Episcopal priest and Jungian analyst in private practice in Austin, Texas. He is widely known as a lecturer and educator in the field of psychology and religion, as well as a published poet and essayist.

He is the author of The Invisible Church: Finding Spirituality Where You Are, Raising Lazarus: The Science of Healing the Soul, Words Made Flesh, and The Paradox of Love.

You may attend the Friday evening offering, the Saturday offering, or both.

SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 2017, 9 a.m.

Greg Garrett Is This Heaven?

Greg Garrett will examine how our stories of the afterlife shape our present, a topic he explores in his book, Entertaining Judgment: The Afterlife in Popular Imagination.

Books by our speakers are available in the Bookshop @ St. Stephen’s.

A word about suggested donations

We suggest a donation of $25 to attend most events (unless noted otherwise); this usually covers the expenses of our bringing these outstanding writers, teachers and thought leaders to you. We want our speakers to be accessible to all, and we know that some people will be able to donate more than $25, and others less. If you plan to pay the suggested donation, you may reserve your place online. If you plan to pay a different amount, please stop by the parish office to register, or call 804.288.2867.

The 2016-17 program year promises to be another excellent season for guest speakers. The line-up includes a former U.S. Treasury Secretary, an astrophysicist who talks about faith, and a controversial writer and minister. There will be familiar faces returning to St. Stephen’s but in different settings than before. There will be ripped-from-the-headline topics and reflections on ancient traditions.

John Snow

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Dan Matthews

John Philip Newell

Rob Bell

Barbara Brown Taylor SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

Sunday Forum resumes September 18 The Sunday Forum convenes at 10:10 a.m. in the Large Fellowship Hall and features presentations by the rector and other clergy, lay leaders, and guest speakers. After a September 18 kick-off by the rector, this year’s line-up includes the following guest speakers: September 25 // Tim Floyd This Mercer Law School professor and attorney will discuss the experience of working to get the courts to overturn a death sentence for his client, going all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court; what he learned from his seven-year relationship with this client; and how that experience reflected some of the issues raised in our parish summer read, Just Mercy.

October 30 // Paul Wallace This astrophysicist (who holds a Master of Divinity degree) will explore one of the strangest accounts of creation in scripture: the divine monologue of Job 38-41. In these chapters, in response to Job’s pleas for justice, God takes Job on a wild, woolly, and very unexpected tour of creation. Job’s cosmos stands in accord with certain aspects of scientific thought: it values experience over tradition, offers a radical critique of conventional views of God, and removes human beings from the center of all things. These similarities make the book of Job a promising point of departure for those who seek dialogue between Jewish and Christian religious traditions and modern science.

Tim Floyd

Paul Wallace

December 4 // Fr. Martin Laird The author of Into the Silent Land and A Sunlit Absence is one of our most popular speakers. More details to come.

December 11 // Greg Garrett In a presentation titled “Seeking the Sacred in Harry Potter,” Garrett finds this best-selling saga to be much more than a children’s story. He argues that it’s a powerfully spiritual tale whose phenomenal appeal results both from J. K. Rowling’s gifts as a storyteller and her story’s engagement with the topics of community, compassion, redemption, and sacrifice. Garrett has written a book on the subject, One Fine Potion: The Literary Magic of Harry Potter.

COMING IN 2017 March 19 // Pittman McGehee // The Paradox of Love Based on his book of the same title, this Episcopal priest and Jungian analyst will discuss the three different Greek understandings of love—eros, philia and agape—and the healthy implications of each and the dark side of each.

For more information on the Sunday Forum schedule, visit our Web site at ststephensRVA.org/forum.

Martin Laird

Greg Garrett

Pittman McGehee

Other speakers The Men’s Breakfast The Men’s Breakfast takes place on the second Thursday of each month (September-May); breakfast is served at 7:15 a.m. in the large Fellowship Hall, and the featured speaker concludes no later than 8:30 a.m. Women are welcome to attend. Payment for breakfast is made at the door ($7 per person).

Questions? Please contact Jack Williams by calling 804.347.4435.

Thursday, September 8, 2016 Pastor Skip Long, Principal of Church Hill Academy Thursday, October 13, 2016 Daniel J. Palazzolo, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Richmond Thursday, November 10, 2016 John Richardson-Lauve, LCSW, Program Manager– Mental Health Services at Child Savers Thursday, December 8, 2016 Tony Szymendera, Upper School Head and Varsity Baseball Coach at St. Christopher’s School Thursday, January 12, 2017 Ron Smith, Writer-in-Residence at St. Christopher’s School, and Poet Laureate of the Commonwealth of Virginia Thursday, February 9, 2017 Charles F. Bryan, Jr., Ph.D., founding partner, Bryan & Jordan Consulting, and president and CEO emeritus of the Virginia Historical Society Thursday, March 9, 2017 Mike Maruca, Head of School at Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

Thursday, April 13, 2017 Bob Bryant, Principal at Ascent Energy Partners Thursday, May 11, 2017 Terrie H. Scheckelhoff, Ph.D., Head of School at St. Catherine’s School The Women’s Forum Programs take place on the first Tuesday of the month (October-May, with a break in January). No registration is required and all are welcome—women, men, members, guests, and friends. Most programs begin at 10 a.m. and are preceded by coffee and refreshments at 9:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

Tuesday, October 4, 2016 The Rev. David Teschner “Ways in the Wilderness and the Jesus Trail” David is the rector at Christ and Grace Episcopal Church, Petersburg, Virginia. He was formerly an assistant rector at St. Stephen’s. Last fall David traveled to Jerusalem. He will give a slide presentation and some insight about what is going on in this part of the world.

Tuesday, November 1, 2016 Muffy Newell “Trinity Cares: a lay pastoral ministry” Muffy is a lifelong Episcopalian who lives in Staunton where she is a member of Trinity Church.

She will tell her own story and explain how it evolved into pastoral ministry for her church. Muffy is the daughter of St. Stephen’s parishioner Angela Barksdale.

Tuesday, December 6, 2016 (11:00 a.m.)

Michael Simpson and Friends

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

Advent and Christmas Music Program Michael is the director of Celtic musicians at St. Stephen’s. He and two vocalists will again delight us with music for the season. Afterwards we will enjoy a festive lunch. A sign-up sheet will be available at Information Central and in the May Fair House beginning in November. Payment for the luncheon can be made at the door.

No program in January Thursday, February 16, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.

Ladies Night Out Additional details will be announced later.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017 Claire Brill “Pray, Keep Calm and Doodle On — Prayer is Responding to God, With or Without Words” Claire, Lay Assistant at Christ and Grace Episcopal Church in Petersburg, will offer a workshop to explore the world of doodling our prayers and then enlivening them with color. See how conversing with God in this manner can bring a sense of calm and joy.

Tuesday, April 4, 2017 Waite Rawls “Burying the Dead, but not the Past; Virginia Post-Civil War Ladies Memorial Association” Waite is the co-chief executive officer of the American Civil War Museum. He will enlighten us with his talk about Richmond women and their activities after the war.

Tuesday, May 2, 2017 (10:30 a.m. at Roslyn) Holy Eucharist in the Bishop’s Chapel will be followed by a light luncheon on the grounds.

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Sarah Bartenstein

St. Stephen’s Calendar 2016-17

Holy Baptism is offered at St. Stephen’s on designated Sundays during the morning services, as well as on several Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Here is a calendar for the 2016-17 program (academic) year, with events we know about as this edition of Seasons of the Spirit heads to the printer. Consider keeping this section for your bulletin board or refrigerator door.

This is not an exhaustive listing. Updates to the calendar, as well as additional details about events, are always available on our Web site at ststephensRVA.org, and are publicized in our weekly communications, the Spirit and the eSpirit.

Indicates that registration, sign-up or advance tickets advised

September

4 | Sun Last day for summer worship schedule 5 | Mon Parish office closed in observance of Labor Day (food distribution

takes place on Tuesday) 11 | Sun Regular worship schedule resumes (8 a.m., 9 a.m. in church and

Palmer Hall, 11:15 a.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m.)

Rally Week (through Wednesday, September 14) 12 | Mon May Fair House opens after summer recess, 10 a.m.

14 | Wed Wonderful Wednesdays supper (5:45-6:30 p.m.) and Wednesday

Choral Evensong (5:30 p.m.) resume 15 | Thu Golf Tournament, noon 16 | Fri Bluegrass Bash, 5-8 p.m.

18 | Sun Sunday Forum and Sunday school resume, 10:10 a.m.

Weekly Bible class led by Penny Nash begins, 10:10 a.m.

Parent group begins, 10:10 a.m.

21 | Wed Palmer Hall Servers training; time TBA 24 | Sat Liturgical Ministers orientation, 9 a.m.

Lay Readers training, 10:30 a.m.

25 | Sun United Thank Offering fall ingathering

Sunday Forum Guest: Tim Floyd, 10:10 a.m.

26 | Mon Fall Covenant Period begins 29 | Thu Community Speakers Series: Income Inequality, with

John Snow and Dan Matthews, 7 p.m.

13 | Thu

16 | Sun 18 | Tue 19 | Wed 22 | Sat 23 | Sun 25 | Tue 26 | Wed 29 | Sat

30 | Sun

Men’s Breakfast begins, 7:15 a.m. (list of speakers on page 9) Reception with the rector, 6-7:30 p.m.

Prayer Shawl Blessing, morning services Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 3, 7-9 p.m.

Fall Inquirers Class, Session 3, 6:30-8 p.m.

Liturgical Ministers Training, 10 a.m.

Youth Group trip to Busch Gardens Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 4, 7-9 p.m.

Fall Inquirers Class, Session 4, 6:30-8 p.m.

Community Speakers Series: Two Books, One World, with Paul Wallace, 9 a.m.

Sunday Forum Guest: Paul Wallace, 10:10 a.m.

November 1 | Tue

2 | Wed 3 | Thu 4 | Fri 5 | Sat 6 | Sun

8 | Tue

All Saints’ Day service, noon Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 5, 7-9 p.m.

Fall Inquirers Class, Session 5, 6:30-8 p.m.

Poetry Series: Dave Lucas, 7 p.m.

Youth Event: Senior High Weekend at Shrine Mont Youth Event: Senior High Weekend at Shrine Mont All Saints’ Sunday Youth Event: Senior High Weekend at Shrine Mont Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 6, 7-9 p.m.

1 | Sat Blessing of the Animals service, 10 a.m.

Lay Eucharist Visitors Workshop, 10 a.m.

Healing Prayer Ministers Workshop, noon 2 | Sun Annual Giving Campaign begins 4 | Tue Women’s Forum begins, 10 a.m. (list of speakers on page 9) Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 1, 7-9 p.m.

5 | Wed Fall Inquirers Class, Session 1, 6:30-8 p.m.

6 | Thu Poetry Series: Jennifer Whitaker, 7 p.m.

8 | Sat Holy Baptism, 10:30 a.m.

11 | Tue Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 2, 7-9 p.m.

12 | Wed Fall Inquirers Class, Session 2, 6:30- 8 p.m.

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Briget Ganske

October

The annual children’s pageant will take place Saturday, December 17, at 3 p.m.

SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

February 4 | Sat 5 | Sun 9 | Thu 12 | Sun 19 | Sun 26 | Sun 28 | Tue

Liturgical Ministers training, 10 a.m.

Annual parish meeting and vestry elections, 10 a.m.

Community Speakers Series: Barbara Brown Taylor, 7 p.m.

Winter Inquirers Class, Session 3, 10:10 a.m.

Winter Inquirers Class, Session 4, 10:10 a.m.

Winter Inquirers Class, Session 5, 10:10 a.m.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, 5:30-7 p.m.

Briget Ganske

March

Barbara Brown Taylor will return to St. Stephen’s to speak on Thursday, February 9, 2017, at 7 pm.

9 | Wed 12 | Sat 13 | Sun 14 | Mon 15 | Tue 16 | Wed 17 | Thu 24 | Thu 26 | Sat 27 | Sun

Fall Inquirers Class, Session 6, 6:30-8 p.m.

Youth Event: Lock-In Guest Reflector in Celtic Service: John Phillip Newell, 5:30 p.m.

Community Speakers Series: Rob Bell and John Phillip Newell, 7 p.m.

Discussion Series: Just Mercy, Session 7, 7-9 p.m.

Fall Inquirers Class: Instructed Eucharist, 6:30-8 p.m.

Lunch with the rector, noon Thanksgiving Day service, 10:30 a.m.

Farmers Market moves indoors for the winter, 9 a.m.-noon First Sunday of Advent; Advent Fair Angel Tree ministry begins

December 1 | Thu 3 | Sat 4 | Sun 5 | Mon 11| Sun

17 | Sat 18 | Sun 24 | Sat 25 | Sun 26 | Mon 27 | Tue

Poetry Series: Lisa Russ Spaar, 7 p.m.

Advent Retreat: Fr. Martin Laird, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sunday Forum Guest: Martin Laird Holiday Memorial Service, 7 p.m.

Sunday Forum Guest: Greg Garrett; lunch and additional discussion take place after 11:15 a.m service Children’s Pageant, 3 p.m.

Youth Pageant, 11:15 a.m.

Christmas Eve services at 4:00, 7:00 and 11:00 p.m.

Christmas Day services at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Office closed Office closed

1 | Wed Ash Wednesday; services at 7:30, noon, 5:30 No Wonderful Wednesdays or Evensong 3 | Fri Private schools spring break begins 5 | Sun Winter Inquirers Class, Session 6, 10:10 a.m.

8 | Wed Instructed Eucharist for Adults, 6:30 p.m.

15 | Wed Instructed Eucharist for Youth, 6:30 p.m.

17 | Fri Lenten Retreat: Pittman McGehee 18 | Sat Lenten Retreat: Pittman McGehee

Liturgical Ministers training, 10 a.m.

23 | Thu Poetry Series: Jane Hirshfield, 7 p.m.

27 | Mon Spring Covenant Period begins

April

1 | Sat Community Speakers Series: Greg Garrett, 9 a.m.

2 | Sun Forum Guest: Greg Garrett 5 | Wed Intentional Communion Class, Session 1, time TBA 9 | Sun Palm Sunday; services at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 5:30 p.m.,

8 p.m.; no Sunday school or Forum 13 | Thu Maundy Thursday; service at 7:30 p.m.

14 | Fri Good Friday, service at noon, and Stations of the Cross service at 5 p.m.

15 | Sat Great Vigil of Easter, 7:30 p.m.

16 | Sun Easter Day; services at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m.; no Sunday school or Forum 17 | Mon Public schools spring break begins 23 | Sun Prayer Shawl Blessing at morning services 30 | Sun Youth Event: Trip to King’s Dominion UTO spring ingathering

2017 The regular Sunday schedule resumes September 11, 2016.

May

4 | Thu Reception with rector, 6-7:30 p.m.

6 | Sat Intentional Communion Retreat, time TBA 7 | Sun Intentional Communion Sunday 14 | Sun Youth Event: Senior Recognition during morning service 17 | Wed Instructed Eucharist, 6:30 p.m.

21 | Sun Bishop’s Visit (tentative) 26 | Fri May Fair House closes for the summer, 3 p.m.

28 | Sun Summer worship schedule begins (8 a.m., 10 a.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m.; no Sunday school or Palmer Hall service) 29 | Mon Parish office closed in observance of Memorial Day (food distribution takes place on Tuesday)

Sarah Bartenstein

1 | Sun Christmas I: Lessons and Carols with Communion at 9 and 11:15 a.m. services 2 | Mon Office closed Wonderful Wednesdays suppers resume, 5:45 p.m.

4 | Wed 7 | Sat Liturgical Ministers orientation, 9 a.m.

8 | Sun Winter Rally Day 9 | Mon Winter Covenant Period begins 14 | Sat Healing Prayer Ministers workshop, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

16| Mon Office closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day (food distribution will take place Tuesday) 20 | Fri Annual Convention of the Diocese of Virginia 21 | Sat Annual Convention of the Diocese of Virginia 22 | Sun Winter Inquirers Class, Session 1, 10:10 a.m.

26 | Thu Reception with rector, 6-7:30 p.m.

29 | Sun Winter Inquirers Class, Session 2, 10:10 a.m.

Sarah Bartenstein

January

The Stations of the Cross will be held Good Friday, April 14, 2017.

S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

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Wellness classes at St. Stephen’s address physical, mental and spiritual health

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he word “wellness” is used frequently and in different ways, so it’s important to understand what we mean by “wellness ministries” at St. Stephen’s Church. First of all, we might say what we do not mean. St. Stephen’s Church is not a “spiritual spa” where individuals come for self-indulgent pampering.

Rather, our wellness ministries are intended to promote the kind of spiritual focus and prayerful attentiveness that can lead to a more compassionate life, a life that is grounded in the Way of Jesus. And, of course, all that we do is set in the ancient, life-giving rhythm of prayer – weekly communion with God and one another; some sort of daily devotion, such as the recitation of psalms and scripture readings from Daily Morning and Evening Prayer; and, following the example of Jesus, regular times of private, contemplative prayer, times for “resting in God.” St. Stephen’s offers groups, classes, retreats and other opportunities to help people make healthy and informed choices about the things that affect physical, spiritual and mental health. In addition to the classes listed below, and the retreats we offer here at church and at the Society of St. John the Evangelist, we see our Farmers Market as part of this ministry. So is a food ministry that provides nourishing foods to those who cannot afford them, and Sunday Community Suppers which emphasize fresh, local ingredients, as well as fellowship. Suppers are donationbased to allow the broadest possible participation.

Note: Though details about some of these classes had not been finalized at press time, when you come to Rally Day, you’ll be able to fill in the blanks!

MONDAYS 11 a.m. | Chair Yoga led by Celine Burn | year-round | suggested donation $10 per class Chair yoga is a safe and supportive style of gentle yoga that allows individuals to engage in flexibility exercises as well as balance and coordination moves.

Celine Burn is a group exercise instructor certified by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America who specializes in teaching seniors chair yoga through the Silver Sneakers certification program. This class is open to all ages and is ideal for those who would like to improve and maintain their wellness as they age.

6-7 p.m. | Guided Meditation led by Lynn Brooke | September 12-December 13 | suggested donation $10 per class This is for all levels, and will help you learn to be more calm and present in your day-to-day life. Classes are 60 minutes: 30 minutes of guided meditation followed by 30 minutes of class discussion. This is a seated practice. Chairs and/or meditation cushions are provided. No registration is required.

TUESDAYS 12-1 p.m. | Guided Meditation led by Lynn Brooke | September 13-December 14 | suggested donation $10 per class This is the same class described above, but offered during the day.

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6:15-7:15 p.m. | Into Stillness (beginning) led by JoAnn Bibb DeForge | five weeks; start date TBA | suggested donation $45 for the course Mindfulness meditation is valuable for those who are looking for new ways of dealing with stress, using the same principles used in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), a proven method for reducing stress. Learning to be still and present is a key component in the spiritual life. This class is suitable for beginners with no previous experience. Advance registration is requested; you may do this online at ststephensRVA.org/wellness.

WEDNESDAYS 9:30 a.m. | Mindful Yoga led by JoAnn Bibb DeForge | year-round | suggested donation $10 per class This practice includes standing postures and sun salutations along with easy stretching movements performed on the floor. Beginners are welcome.

2 p.m. | Chair Yoga led by Celine Burn | year-round | suggested donation $10 per class See description, Mondays at 11 a.m.

6-7 p.m. | Introduction to Guided Meditation Workshop led by Lynn Brooke | September 14, October 5, November 2 | suggested donation $15 This introductory session is designed to familiarize participants with beginning meditation techniques and make the practice easier to understand. This is a seated practice. Chairs and props are provided.

THURSDAYS 9 a.m. | Yoga for the Heart led by Millie Cain | five weeks beginning September 15 | suggested donation $45 for the course When was the last time you gave your heart your complete attention? We will explore through meditation and movement, asking the question: “How does love move?”

Newcomers to yoga are welcome, as are those at any and all levels of physical fitness. This may be practiced in a chair or on a mat, standing, sitting or lying down.

This invitation is not a new approach, but rather a very old path . . . the path of the contemplative. If your heart has longings that you can’t seem to embrace, perhaps this is a way to find your path and align your life with the heart’s deepest knowing. Join us and give yourself the gift of your full attention.

Millie Cain is a lawyer and mediator and has practiced yoga for over 25 years. Her heart’s greatest pleasure is to come together with folks and look at what goes on here in this body, in this life, and ask the question: “How could this be more loving?” ✤ SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

New Sunday morning Bible class offered

employ the method of narrative study with an eye toward not only the story arc but also the themes and motifs that run through the individual books and also connect with other books – and with our lives.

Christians generally believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God. Many Christians also feel that they have not really learned how to read the Bible for themselves. Some have tried to start at the

By Penny Nash beginning and then got stuck at all the “begats.”

Others learned stories in Sunday school but feel that, now that they are adults, there is more to be learned from the Scriptures. Still others just want to know more about what the Bible says and what it has to do with our lives.

If any of these characterizations apply to you, come and join a new Sunday morning Bible study class during the Sunday school hour every week beginning September 18.

I’m offering this class to help us all become more biblically literate and confident in our knowledge and ability to engage Scripture, to give us a roadmap for our own study. That means we will not be reading every book line by line. Rather we will

We will start in the fall with an overview of the Old Testament prophetic literature, looking at the historical situation, images, motifs and stories that will be carried forward to the Gospels. Then, we will move into the Gospels, studying each one individually for a semester. There will not be homework assigned, and you do not need to sign up or commit to weekly attendance (although regular attendance has its benefits).

My hope is that our time together on Sunday mornings will be interactive and that we will not only learn to read the Bible and engage the themes and stories, but that we will take time to reflect on how the Scriptures inform our world today, inform how we relate to God, to ourselves, and to others. How does the Bible help me make decisions, form opinions, inspire actions? In other words, we will not be treating the Bible as a simple object of veneration nor learning verses for the purpose of debate, but engaging the Word in community.

I hope you’ll join in! ✤

Did you know we have a library?

By Lisa Blouch The library at St. Stephen’s is a warm and inviting room…perfect for small group gatherings and meetings. You may be surprised to know, however, that the room also serves as a true circulating library! Housing a variety of books to borrow, to read, and to share, the library is a valuable resource for members of the St. Stephen’s community.

(noting titles, authors, and book topics) is available at http://www.librarything. com/catalog/StStephensChurch, and a printout of the catalog (which is still a work in progress) is available in the library itself.

To borrow a book from St. Stephen’s library: 1. Enter your name and phone number on the card in the back of the book.

2. Write the date on the card.

3. Place the card in the front of the black box on the desk.

4. Return the book to the library within two weeks, find the matching check-out card in the box, and reshelve the book according to the number on its white spine label.

The library contains a wide variety not only of theological reference materials and historical books about the church, but includes books about faith and life by such popular authors such as Phyllis Tickle and Karen Armstrong. Classic works on topics ranging from grief to pastoral care to sermons can be found alongside more contemporary titles by Rob Bell, John Philip Newell, and others. You’ll find Mary Oliver and Wendell Berry in the poetry section, Barbara Taylor Brown in biography, Desmond Tutu in ethics, Annie Dillard in meditations, and you’ll also encounter many others, both familiar and new, writing about Christian life and spirituality.

If you’d like to volunteer in the library and help maintain the shelves, make sure materials are in order, create attractive displays of new books, or process new materials, please contact Gene LeCouteur at 804.288.2867, or glecouteur@ ststephensRVA.org.

Books in the library are organized according to the Dewey Decimal System, familiar to most from secondary school and public libraries, with each section labeled by topic and similar books grouped together. A partial catalog of materials

The catalog will continue to be updated as current collection titles, as well as new ones, are entered. Please take an opportunity to browse through the library’s collection. You may just find the right book to feed your soul! ✤

Briget Ganske

Disciple is a 34-week study of the Bible from Genesis through Revelation. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of each of the books of the Bible, their themes, the major figures in each, and the chronology. In addition to reading portions of each book, we will watch video presentations by scholars, participate in group discussion, do a little homework, and build a community. It is worthwhile work for anyone who wants to understand why we read so much of Isaiah in Advent, what Jesus meant when he said, “I came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets,” why the Old Testament is so important to understanding the New Testament, why St. Paul wrote some of the things that make us cringe today, and more. It is fun, engaging, enlightening, and worth every minute. This will be the fourth time Gene and Karen have led this course together.

New groups for the fall Several small groups and classes are planned for the fall, including the following. You may sign up on our Web site (ststephensRVA.org/groups) or at Rally Days (September 11-14), where information about additional groups and classes will also be available.

The books for each of these offerings are available in the Bookshop @ St. Stephen’s.

Just Mercy discussion group // Tuesdays, 7 p.m., October 4-November 15 Led by the Rev. Gary Jones and Tom Cox Many at St. Stephen’s have read, or are in the midst of reading, a compelling book by a man who has been called–both by New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof and by Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu–“America’s Mandela.” Lawyer Bryan SteS A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

venson is the founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, a practice dedicated to defending those most desperate and in need: the poor, the wrongly condemned, and women and children trapped in the farthest reaches of our criminal justice system. His book, Just Mercy, was Gary Jones’ pick for a parish summer book, and on seven Tuesday evenings this fall parishioner Tom Cox, a graduate of Harvard Law School, will team up with Gary to lead a series on themes and issues raised in the book. Participants will hear brief presentations from Tom and Gary, followed by discussion in small groups.

Disciple Bible Study // Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., beginning September 21 Led by the Rev. Gene LeCouteur and Karen Orville

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

The book for this course costs $40; there is no other cost to participate. Space is limited.

World’s Religions: A Guide to Our Wisdom Traditions // Wednesdays, 1:00-2:30 p.m., September 21-November 16 Led by Jan Hatcher An understanding of our world’s major religions is an important part of understanding the culture in which we live today. Join us in exploring the essentials of each major world religion, using Huston Smith’s beautifully illustrated World’s Religions: A Guide to Our Wisdom Traditions. Weekly discussions will focus on Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Zen Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and what scholar Diana Eck refers to as the “pluralistic” landscape of religion in the U.S. today. Since this class meets midday, you are invited to bring lunch with you if you wish. Space is limited for this class. ✤

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Summer at St. Stephen’s

PARISH WEEKEND AT SHRINE MONT

From Friday, June 24 through Sunday, June 26, about 80 people of all ages took part in the annual parish weekend at Shrine Mont, the diocesan conference center in the mountains northwest of Harrisonburg. Among the participants were four families who were new to the event, as well as some Virginia Girls Choir members who had never been before. Highlights of the weekend included a ‘Holy Hike’ led by the Rev. Weston Mathews, a bonfire with s’mores, outdoor worship, and singing led by members of the Virginia Girls Choir and the Virginia Boys Choir. Photos by Ben Emerson

BIG CITY ADVENTURE

In mid-June, a group of eighth graders from St. Stephen’s went to New York City where they attended a Sunday service at Trinity, Wall Street, visited Ground Zero, and saw a show (“The Fantastiks”). The highlight of the trip, though, was volunteering in the famous Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen, where they served meals to hundreds of guests. Photos by Gene LeCouteur

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SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

BECOME AS CHILDREN

Adults exploring a vocation to serve as ‘catechists’ (guides) in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, our spiritual formation program for young children, attended workshops here in late July and early August, taught by national trainer Anna Hurdle. Photo by Doug Buerlein

RECEIVE THE KINGDOM AS A LITTLE CHILD

WORKSHOP INTRODUCES ICON OF THE NATIVITY

St. Stephen’s annual icon writing workshop was, once again, fully subscribed.

Beginners wrote icons of the Holy Face, while returning students (like Kathy Brock, shown here with iconographer and instructor Suzanne Schleck) wrote an icon of the Nativity, the Archangel Michael or the Archangel Gabriel. Participants came from throughout Virginia and included men and women, lay and ordained. Photo

by Doug Buerlein

S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

During the week of July 11-15, 80 children took part in Vacation Bible School. They were led by 23 adult volunteers and 31 youth volunteers. The children took part in art, singing, crafts and other activities to discover Jesus in the scripture, with special focus on these verses from Mark 10: “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”

Throughout the week, children brought supplies to send to the Dominican Republic for the Vacation Bible School a group of our senior high youth were to conduct in Azua. These items were presented during worship each day. Many thanks to all the volunteers and staff who worked so diligently on this offering, and especially to Beth Thurmond, who chaired this year’s effort. Photos by Briget Ganske

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A lasting legacy

T

he hope for every generation is to make life better for those who follow. For more than 100 years, St. Stephen’s Church has provided spiritual sustenance through worship and prayer, Holy Baptism, marriage, burial, pastoral care, Christian education for all ages, fellowship, and outreach to the poor. During our first century, this parish’s reach has grown wider and its impact has grown deeper. The world is hungry for what St. Stephen’s offers, and we want to ensure that it continues to serve as a beacon for generations to come.

With that in mind, the vestry has established the Legacy Society to identify and recognize those who include St. Stephen’s in their estate plans. We want to provide a strong foundation for the future of this parish that means so much to all of us, and to so many throughout this community and the world.

We are blessed to have an endowment of about $5 million.

The leadership of the Legacy Society is certain this endowment can grow to help provide the resources that future generations will need to strengthen and expand our ministries and to maintain our beautiful buildings and grounds.

A new Legacy Society brochure provides information about ways any of us can help insure the future vitality of St. Stephen’s Church through planned giving.

It’s important to remember that you needn’t be wealthy to provide for this church in your estate plans. The brochure includes information about types of planned gifts so that you might consider which one(s) make sense for your particular situation. Those who signal their intention to include St. Stephen’s in their estate plans will be enrolled as members of the Legacy Society, and the brochure outlines the benefits offered to them. The brochure is available on welcome tables throughout the parish house.

Not only do we want people to consider including St. Stephen’s in their plans, we also want to hear from those who have already taken this step. Even if you have previously notified the church of your intent to include the parish in your planned giving, we ask that you fill out the form provided with the brochure so that we can be sure our records are accurate, and so that we can include you as a member of the Legacy Society.

Any member of the Legacy Society’s steering committee, chaired by John Sherman, will be happy to answer your questions about this initiative. Thank you for your prayerful consideration of this opportunity to leave a lasting legacy to benefit future generations through the ministries of St. Stephen’s Church. ✤

Legacy Society Steering Committee John W. Bates III Roger L. Boeve JB Burtch Richard M. Clary John P. Crowder Deborah Dunlap Anne Thomas Hines Mary Lou M. Gambill

Explore the ministry of healing prayer

By Penny Nash As part of our Sunday evening Celtic service, we offer the ministry of healing prayer to any who desire it. Healing prayer ministers are available in the side chapels during the administration of Holy Communion to pray with those who come forward about anything on their hearts, for themselves or for others.

While the healing prayer ministers do listen to the prayer concern and offer a brief spoken prayer, most of the prayer time is in silence, with the minister and the participant simply opening themselves to the healing love of God while the minister gently puts his or her hands on the participant’s shoulders.

Those who wish to explore a call to serve as a healing prayer minister are asked to go through a period of discernment. In January, we will offer a gathering through which to learn about the ministry – how it is practiced at St. Stephen’s, the purpose and training for the ministry, as well as how ministers prepare for the ministry through contemplative practices. Those who would like to continue to explore will meet with Catherine Whitham, the leader of the ministry, and with Penny Nash, the clergy contact for healing prayer, to make a plan for continued discernment.

New healing prayer teams are organized in late summer to begin in the fall.

Interested? Please contact Catherine Whitham, cwhitham@comcast.net or 804.282.0414, or Penny Nash, pnash@ststephensRVA.org, or 804.288.2867. ✤ Upcoming workshops for Healing Prayer Ministers October 1, 2016, noon (for current healing prayer ministers) January 14, 2017, 10 a.m. (for prospective healing prayer ministers)

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L.H. Ginn III Allen C. Goolsby Richard Letchworth Laurie Jarrett Rogers John Sherman, Jr., Chairman Wesley Wright, Jr. Eppa Hunton, Ex officio The Rev. Gary D. Jones, Rector

Are you interested in serving as a chalice bearer?

A

ll of our weekend services, with the exception of Compline, include Holy Communion, also known as the Eucharist. Priests and people together make Eucharist through prayers and Communion is distributed to the people by both clergy and lay servers. Most often, lay servers offer the chalice of wine to those who come forward for Communion.

Those who are interested in becoming chalice bearers first express interest through signup sheets during Rally Days or by letting one of the clergy know of their interest. In September and again in January we offer an orientation to those who would like to explore this ministry. After a period of discernment, we offer training the following month to new chalice bearers and begin scheduling them for service.

Chalice bearers are asked to be available to serve at any of our services, not just one particular one.

Follow-up training is offered several times a year, as a group or one-on-one, to keep everyone current on our practices, which can change from time to time or from service to service. Chalice bearers generally serve for a three-year term.

Interested? Please contact Penny Nash, pnash@ststephensRVA.org, or 804.288.2867. ✤ Orientation and training sessions: Fall 2016 September 24, orientation, 9 a.m.

October 22, training, 10 a.m.

2017 January 7, orientation, 9 a.m.

February 4, training, 10 a.m.

March 18, training, 10 a.m.

SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

The gifts of musical expression

By Peter Hopkins

A

s a musician, I find it difficult to talk about musical expression. It’s so hard to describe, yet so easy to demonstrate. If music were easy to describe with words, then we might not need music at all. Fortunately, the growing field of neuroscience is giving us more and more glimpses into how music influences us and how musical expression positively affects us in so many ways.

Though all these studies are important and helpful, they are really just putting into words what we’ve intuited all along: making music just feels good—really, really good! Singing especially can evoke a visceral response; using your body to make beautiful sounds affects you and those around you. Choirs are some of the most tightknit organizations in the world; these communities unite diverse people in a common, satisfying, and uplifting experience.

Here at St. Stephen’s, we offer a music ministry that allows people of all ages to engage in active music-making on a continuous basis. From our Music Makers experiences for infants and toddlers who attend with a parent or caregiver, to our St. Stephen’s Choir for adults, parishioners can find a place to belong, a place to refresh their spirits week by week, a place to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. There’s also nothing wrong with saying that singing can be a whole lot of fun; learning and mirth are not mutually exclusive!

Children as well as adults need this opportunity to express themselves musically, and we’re happy to continuously work on broadening the numbers of people

Sarah Bartenstein

“The Mozart Effect” was a popular phrase coined a while back from an early study on classical music and cognition. A cottage industry grew from parents rushing out to buy “Baby Bach” and “Little Mozart” compact discs, believing their infants would become smarter by listening to classical music. This turned out to be a poorly formulated study whose conclusions were exaggerated; but since then, a host of other studies show more and more correlation between music education and improvements in brain function, mental and emotional balance, and other positive outcomes in people of all ages. What most of this research has in common is that, for best results, people should actively engage in making music, and that the music-making should be challenging in some way.

The Virginia Girls Choir and Virginia Boys Choir are open to youth in grades four and up, and welcome young people from throughout the city.

who join in music ministry while deepening the experiences of those who already participate. Where might you belong? If you don’t see yourself in what we’re currently offering, maybe there’s something new we could start. A recorder consort? A wind band? Daytime bell choir? A volunteer parish choir that sings occasionally to lead hymnody? Let us know where your interest lies.

We’re always looking for ways to invite people currently outside our parish walls to try us out. An effective way to engage new families is through our girl and boy choirs. Children fourth grade and up can try us out. All it takes is an email or phone call to me to arrange a meeting: 804.288.2867 or phopkins@ ststephensRVA.org. What do the other children in your neighborhood do? Might they benefit from our Virginia Girls and Boys Choirs? Please help us spread the word! ✤

A unique music program for the very young

A familiar face (and sound) returns

!

Sarah Bartenstein

Greg Vick

Dawn Childs (in dark shirt) has developed the unique Music Makers approach we offer at St. Stephen’s.

You know how important it is to read to your child.

Did you know that early childhood music experiences also have a positive effect on child development? St. Stephen’s Church is pleased to offer the second round of “Music Makers,” our own program for infants, toddlers, and preschool ages. The first semester which began in January and concluded in the spring was a tremendous success.

Our curriculum was developed by Dawn Childs, a member of our music staff who is a Virginialicensed music teacher with extensive experience teaching music to children of all ages. Dawn holds a Bachelor of Music Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Adult Education/Educational Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University. Dawn has combined the best of such approaches as Kindermusik and Music Together with her own teaching experience and knowledge to create Music Makers.

S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

This course is unique in Richmond and each 12week class provides continuity for children, each week building on the previous week’s learning, while providing a bonding experience for adult and child, and ongoing community with other adults. This has distinct advantages over “drop-in” programs.

Age-appropriate classes are offered in three levels: babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

The next series will be offered September 12-December 5. The schedule, tuition, and registration are available at ststephensRVA.org/ musicmakers. The number of students who can be accommodated in each section is limited, so don’t delay.

This offering is not limited to members of St. Stephen’s, so feel free to share this information with friends, family, and neighbors. ✤

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

Greg Vick has returned! Greg served as associate director of music several years ago working alongside Dan Moriarty. When St. Christopher’s School (where he had been teaching part-time) asked that he teach full-time, being associate director of music here was no longer feasible.

Fortunately, he’s agreed to return as principal organist, working with director of music Peter Hopkins, allowing Peter to focus on choral directing and the development of our choirs, while overseeing the music program. Greg will continue to teach fulltime at St. Christopher’s during the academic year.

In mid-August he said goodbye to First Presbyterian Church where he had been playing on Sundays, and he re-joined our staff in late August.

Greg will play the organ on Sunday mornings, as well as on the Wednesday evenings that the Virginia Girls Choir leads Evensong. He will also play at the Celtic service on occasion.

Rounding out our music staff are part-timers Michael Simpson, director of Celtic musicians; Dawn Childs, who directs the Palmer Hall choirs and leads the Music Makers program; and Paige Reisenfeld, administrative assistant. ✤

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Our resident carpenter helps furnish a new atrium In Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, our Sunday school program for young children, the atrium is the sacred space in which children explore and wonder about God using of a variety of materials. These include clay pieces representing Biblical figures, liturgical vessels and pieces sized especially for children, and other items. Most of these materials are made right here by volunteers.

Each atrium also has child-sized furnishings such as a holy table, a pulpit and other items. Parishioner, carpenter and former vestry member Earl Roney worked throughout the spring and summer on building these furnishings for a new atrium being added to those already in use.

Earl has generously and lovingly crafted furniture in our atria since we established this program at St. Stephen’s.

For the newest atrium, Earl secured a donation of wood valued at $1,000 from Siewers Lumber. We are deeply grateful to Siewers for this gift, and to Earl for his dedication to our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program. ✤

New book by Bill Sachs and Michael Bos features words from St. Stephen’s parishioners Bill Sachs, priest associate at St. Stephen’s and a prolific writer, has just published a new book co-written with Michael Bos, a frequent collaborator.

Fragmented Lives describes the meaning of faith for people the Church has shown little facility for attracting but whom it would like to reach, people who have entered church doors occasionally but who have little depth of commitment. It is a book for persons exploring the basis of faith, as well as for church leaders looking to understand how their programs and message can align with faith journeys today.

Time for a sort-out?

Is your toolbox or workbench overflowing with tools in good condition that you don’t use anymore? Please consider donating them to the St. Stephen’s Rebuilding Together Richmond Team and HANDS (Hammers and Nails in Devoted Service) ministry. We are accepting donations of properly functioning hand and power tools to support these building efforts. Please use the donation box positioned near Palmer Hall and the elevator in the parish house.

For more information (or to donate tools too large for the box), please contact Matthew Mika, uvamika@gmail.com. ✤

Give your fingers a rest: our email addresses are shorter When we launched our new Web site, we used a shorter, simpler URL, ststephensRVA.org. Now that URL is reflected in the staff’s email addresses as well.

So if you emailed Stephen Clergyperson at sclergyperson@saintstephensrichmond.net before, now you simply use sclergyperson@ ststephensRVA.org. If you forget, no worries–when you send something to an old address, it will forward to the new one while we all adjust to the new addresses. ✤

While examining the growing emphasis on spirituality for those wanting “spirituality without structures,” it argues that spirituality has become so elastic in its meaning that it is lacking the definition and direction people seek in finding answers to their questions.

As with A Church Beyond Belief, the authors use personal stories to animate the discussion of how faith must be construed as something other than “belief ” or “assent.” The authors provide a road map for discovering the journey of living into a faith tradition together. Through this journey, the meaning of faith is illumined and the Church is revealed to be the community of faith that fulfills the needs and intentions of those seeking to live a more authentic life beyond the fragmentation they experience in this age of uncertainty.

Some of the names in Fragmented Lives will be familiar, since Sachs uses use stories and observations from Michael Sweeney, Allison Seay and Jack DeLoyht. ✤

Trading spaces As this edition of Seasons of the Spirit was heading to the printer, finishing touches were being placed on offices for our music ministry staff on the top floor of the parish house. That’s because the music ministry and family ministry traded spaces. The area traditionally used for choir rehearsals is to be a gathering space for youth, while the room variously used as a youth gathering spot and a yoga room on the top floor is the new rehearsal space for our choirs. Along with the offices, the music library is also moving. ✤

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Are you receiving the

eSpirit?

Every week, it seems, we hear from someone who might have known about an event, or a ministry, or an offering here at St. Stephen’s if they’d been receiving the eSpirit, our weekly email newsletter. It’s also the best way to learn if inclement weather or some other factor affects our office or worship schedule.

Some things to know:

✤ You don’t have to be a “member” of St. Stephen’s to subscribe ✤ It’s free ✤ You can unsubscribe anytime ✤ We won’t give your email address to anyone else—promise!

Do you receive the eSpirit? It’s easy to subscribe. Just go to ststephensRVA.org/ email to learn how. Or text STSTEPHENSRVA to 22828. ✤ SEASONS OF THE SPIRIT

St. Stephen’s receives awards at annual conference of Episcopal Communicators

A

t the annual conference of Episcopal Communicators, held in Portland, Oregon in April, St. Stephen’s Church received recognition for its communications during the Polly Bond Awards presentation.

The top award for Web sites went to the parish’s new site, ststephensRVA.org. This category included sites for parishes, cathedrals, dioceses, schools and other church-related organizations.

The parish also received an award of excellence in the “Ultra Low Budget Video” category, for the year-end giving video, “An Historic Year,” written

by Janet Allen and produced by Briget Ganske and Sarah Bartenstein.

St. Stephen’s annual giving campaign materials (Gratitude. Generosity.) received an honorable mention in the “Overall Campaign” category, which included a brochure, videos, a poster, and other items.

The campaign was the work of Janet Allen and Sarah Bartenstein, along with Gary Jones and campaign leaders Keith Dull and John Crowder. The work of videographers Briget Ganske and Jason Faulkner and

The home page of ststephensRVA.org and the stewardship brochure

graphic designer Steven Longstaff was key to this campaign, as well.

organizations to recognize and inspire excellence in communication throughout the Episcopal Church.

The annual Polly Bond Awards are presented to communicators from dioceses, churches and cathedrals, seminaries and schools, and other church-related

Entries are independently judged by professionals in each category, from editors to Web developers to journalism professors. ✤

Annual giving campaign co-chairs named John Crowder, chairman of the stewardship committee of the vestry, is pleased to announce the co-chairs for the 2017 annual giving campaign. John Barr, Brack Hill, and David Shuford have graciously accepted the leadership of the fall campaign which will kick off on October 2. Each brings a wealth of talent and enthusiasm and each is deeply committed to this parish and our ministries which are made possible by people who make annual financial gifts.

Look for a message soon from our co-chairs about making a pledge to the 2017 annual giving campaign.

John Barr

Brack Hill

David Shuford

Although our main pledge drive is in the fall each year, the invitation is always open to those who value this community of faith to make a financial gift to support it. New people are joining all the time, and some who are long-time members occasionally overlook the annual pledge drive and are happy to be reminded just how much the church depends on all of us pitching in, as we are able.

Please know that you can still make a gift for 2016 at ststephensRVA.org/give. The generosity of St. Stephen’s parishioners has never been more evident than it is today. We want to assure you that your gift, large or small, makes a difference.

THE AHMADI FAMILY IS GOING PLACES The Ahmadi family has wheels! The family of four— Sultan and Nooria, their daughter Sana and son Yousuf, now has their own transportation. The family moved to Richmond last fall from Afghanistan, where Sultan’s work for the U.S. government put their lives in danger.

Sultan earned his Virginia driver’s license earlier this year, and has been getting to and from his job using a couple of vehicles on loan. In June, youth ministry coordinator Sarah-Keel Crews, who recently replaced her beloved Jeep, gave the Jeep to the family. Smiles all around! (Well, not so much Yousuf, who slept through the whole thing.) To learn how you can help the Ahmadis in their new life, please contact Deb Lawrence, dlawrence@ ststephensRVA.org.

S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016

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St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

St. Stephen’s Staff To reach a member of the staff, call 288.2867.

Extensions are listed in parentheses. Email may be addressed to a staff member by using the first initial and last name @ststephensRVA.org (e.g., John Doe would be jdoe@ststephensRVA.org).

Janet S. Allen (305), Associate for Development & Operations Stan Barnett (320), Coordinator of Kitchen Ministries Sarah R. Bartenstein (346), Director of Communications Marion S. Chenault (316), Preschool Director Dawn Childs, Assistant for Children’s Music Ministry Donald Clements, Sexton Sarah-Keel Crews (326), Youth Ministry Coordinator Kyle Dosier, Sexton and Assistant Market Manager Melissa Hipes (310), Financial Administrator Peter Hopkins (304), Director of Music The Rev. Gary D. Jones (308), Rector Greta Winn Kidd, Wedding Coordinator Deborah Lawrence (329), Director of Outreach The Rev. Gene LeCouteur (324), Associate for Christian Formation & Education Betsy Lee (300), Office Manager and Pastoral Care Assistant Becky Lehman (338), Assistant for Hospitality & Communications Jan Locher, Lead Catechist The Rev. E. Weston Mathews (339), Associate Rector Christi McFadden, Assistant for Finance The Rev. Penny A. Nash (311), Associate Rector Ben Nelson, Sexton Sun Ho Nuon, Sexton Matt Oltmann, Sexton Paige Reisenfeld (337), Music Assistant Kate Ruby, Market Manager The Rev. William L. Sachs (306), Priest Associate Allison Seay, Associate for Religion and the Arts Steven Simon (321), Facilities Manager Michael Simpson, Director of Celtic Service Musicians Lamonté Smith, Sexton Wei-Li Suen, Palmer Hall Accompanist Michael Sweeney (306), Director of Family Ministry Greg Vick, Principal Organist Other numbers May Fair House, 282.3004 St. Stephen’s Preschool, 288.6401 Class of 2017 Kathryn Angus Beth Brubaker John Crowder, Register Debbie Dunlap Mac Hines Mike Locher

6000 Grove Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23226

Presorted First Class Mail U.S. Postage

PAID

ststephensRVA.org

Richmond, VA Permit No. 320

Rally Days (yes, days) begin September 11 This year’s Rally Day will be held Sunday, September 11.

And on Monday, September 12.

And Tuesday, September 13, and Wednesday, September 14.

In fact, Rally Day will Rally Days this year. While the “big reveal” will take place on Sunday in the parish house, for those who tend to spend the first Sunday of the new program year catching up with friends you might not have seen in awhile—and who might not get around to all the displays and tables—you’ll have the opportunity to check out these offerings Monday through Wednesday, as well. We’ll leave the information (sign-up sheets, brochures, etc.) out for your perusal, and tables will be staffed with volunteers for several hours each of those days, winding up with Wonderful Wednesdays on September 14.

So have no fear, if you get caught up in a conversation after church on September 11, you will still be able to sign up for a group, a volunteer activity, or any of the other wonderful things that will begin anew this fall. ✤

What to do when you don’t know what to do

Class of 2018 John Barr JB Burtch, Senior Warden Mac Purrington Taylor Raquet Laurie Rogers, Junior Warden Beth Smith

Steps you can take when a family member is struggling with addiction

A mentor of mine always says that one of the most powerful forces on earth is inertia—that objects in motion tend to stay in motion, while still objects tend to stay still. When you have a family member struggling with addiction, it is incredibly difficult to move yourself and your loved one towards recovery, and it is often unclear what the correct action is. I would suggest that starting to move is the most important action. Here are some things you can start doing:

Class of 2019 John Bates Judy Buchanan Marie Carter Calle Luke Mac McElroy David Wise

By Thomas Bannard

Peter Pastore, Treasurer Bill Armstrong, Assistant Treasurer

Get educated. A free Family Education Program takes place every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at 563 Southlake Blvd. A number of community providers present weekly on topics related to addiction and recovery. The book Get Your Loved One Sober by Robert Myers is another great place to start.

Get support. Whether it is a family group such as Al-Anon, Families Anonymous, trustworthy and accepting friends, or a minister or therapist, bringing your family’s struggle out of isolation can open the door to support, hope, and resources. You are not alone in this struggle and will be pleased to find people with experience, strength and hope to share.

Seasons of the Spirit Sarah Bartenstein, editor Steven Longstaff, designer

Contributors: Thomas Bannard, Lisa Blouch, Doug Buerlein, Ben Emerson, Briget Ganske, Peter Hopkins, Gary D. Jones, Deb Lawrence, Gene LeCouteur, Penny Nash, Michael Sweeney

Arm yourself with resources. Unfortunately, our society has failed to provide adequate resources for everyone struggling to get quality help. People in active addiction are rarely able to research and investigate these resources. As a family member, you are uniquely equipped with your loved one’s history and can help investigate potential resources to be ready when your loved one is willing and able to receive them.

Buckle up for the long haul. Addiction is a chronic disease that must be managed. Your loved one will need to learn to manage his or her disease over the long term. The majority of people will not find recovery the first time they seek help. This does not mean that treatment was a failure. Understand that your loved one’s recovery may take years and that progress is almost always very slow as the brain takes a long time to heal. When your loved one starts their recovery, your family’s work is still in its early stages. ✤ Tom Bannard grew up at St. Stephen’s Church and is the director of the Rams in Recovery Program at Virginia Commonwealth University and co-leads the Family Education Program at Northstar Community, now in its fourth year of helping families get their loved ones into healthy recovery from misuse of drugs and alcohol. He is familiar to many here because of his previous work with the shelter program at CARITAS. Tom has provided all of the clergy of St. Stephen’s an extensive resource guide for families dealing with addiction; this article is a brief summary of some of the guidance provided in that publication.

S A I N T S T E P H E N ’ S E P I S C O PA L C H U R C H

PENTECOST 2 | FALL 2016