DECEMBER 2019/ EARLY JANUARY 2020 Seasons of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany
A Source of Information and Inspiration for the People of St. Thomas' Church, Whitemarsh
ISSUE TITILE?
PARISH CALL
Dear Beloved in Christ, Do find yourself feeling impatient these days? Are you stuck in that morning commute, standing in a queue for tickets, waiting for a parking place? Do you grumble at your mobile device for not loading faster or wonder if that package will arrive on time? On a more serious note, perhaps you are waiting anxiously for an appointment or awaiting test results. We can feel impatient about so many things. How does that prayer go again? “Lord give me patience…and give it to me NOW!” Kosuke Koyama, a Japanese Theologian, wrote a book entitled Three Mile an Hour God. Over the years, I have drawn much solace from his rumination on Scripture and Western culture from an Eastern perspective: 'Love has its speed. It is a spiritual speed. It is a different kind of speed from the technological
Here are ten top suggestions: Order a Christmas wreath to support our Youth Mission Trip. The Eucharist is celebrated every Wednesday at 10 AM. with prayers for healing. Join us at 11:15 AM in McColl Auditorium on December 1 for the intergenerational Advent Festival. Daily Morning Prayer is offered in Cheston Chapel on weekdays in Advent at 7:15 AM. Make a date to bake cookies with your children, grandchildren, or friends. Winter Solstice Walk on the Labyrinth, Saturday, December 21 at 4:30 PM.
speed to which we are accustomed. It goes on in the depth of our life, whether we notice or not, at three miles an hour. It is the speed we walk and therefore the speed the love of God walks.' I can’t help but think that Advent comes as a gift to all of us who feel harried and who live fragmented lives. Lack of sleep, the constant barrage of advertising, and especially the social pressure to have the “perfect” holiday celebration can all conspire to make us grumble (cf. James 5:9!). And therefore, the season of Advent invites us to slow down when the world about us is only speeding up. The gift of Advent, this season of preparation and expectancy, is a time to walk the speed of love. We offer many aids through our church to help you walk this pace and know the depth of love within.
Visit someone who finds it difficult to get out. Eucharist in MacCausland Chapel on Wednesdays in Advent at 7 PM. Light a candle at dinner time and offer a prayer of thanksgiving. Make coming to church your priority this Advent. Coming to church keeps us connected to Jesus and one another. I hope you will embrace the gift of Advent, slow down, and recognize the incredible gifts that are right in front of you. I’d love to hear what unique practices feed you during this season. Faithfully Yours,
Paul Briggs +
Worship, Music & the Arts - Michael Smith, Minister of Music
Women Composers + Advent Lessons & Carols You may remember from the last Parish Call that our music program is featuring women composers this year. 50% of the choral music sung this season is by women, and most of them are living composers. Although this is a special initiative, it is too bad that it is not the norm for church music programs. I believe that parishes like ours should lead the way in this, as it is an issue of justice. It is especially meaningful to watch girls in our chorister program come into contact with music by women and see themselves represented in our Anglican tradition. For our annual Lessons and Carols service on December 15th at 5:00 PM, will consist ENTIRELY of choral music by women composers. The theme of the service is “Blessed art thou among women”, which refers to the angel Gabriel’s greeting to the Virgin Mary.
Cheston Chapel Update: Chair Orientation in Advent Cheston Chapel, at the front of the church, is a beautiful and reverent space for smaller worship gatherings and for personal prayer. Created from the space once occupied by the pipe organ, it features the work of two nationally prominent and Philadelphia based artists: The stained glass is by the Willet studio, and the cross, missal stand, and candlesticks are by Wharton Esherick. One of the main uses of the chapel is for the midweek Eucharist on Wednesdays at 10 AM. During the season of Advent, we will shift the chairs in Cheston Chapel to face each other. There are philosophical and practical reasons for trying this for a season. Advent is a time for looking inward, for considering our relationships as we await Christ’s coming: as a baby, in the Eucharist, and finally at the Last Day. This style of seating, sometimes called “collegiate”, is also traditional for Morning Prayer, which will once again be offered every weekday in Advent. Take a peek inside the chapel in December and give some thought to how the arrangement of a worship space supports our experience there.
Advent Flower Guild Project
For the Sundays in Advent (December), our talented and creative Flower Guild has accepted a challenge. Each week, the flower design on the altar will be inspired by the scripture readings and themes of that particular Sunday. Designers are invited to read the lessons and themes and pray about what the Holy Spirit might be leading them to design. It is a wonderful example of how all of our tasks and roles at St. Thomas’ might be informed by our common worship life together and centered in Jesus. We are grateful for their boldness and creativity, and can’t wait to see what they come up with.
The PARTY is back! The Outreach Christmas Party that is, but, as you see, under a new name. It was previously know as the Be An Angel Party. There was much disappointment last year when we were unable to host families from the ECS FAST Program, as we had for 22 years, due to housing policy changes at the state and city government levels causing the dissolution of the program. ECS was able to transfer the program’s families to other semi-permanent housing options. Although the party did no go on, gifts to some of the families still did. There was an incredible response through our gift tag trees by all of you to provide necessary household items to those transitioning families. This year we will be hosting families from ACHIEVEability, whose programs break the cycle of poverty for lowincome single parent and homeless families in Philadelphia. Many of these same children enjoyed our Summer Camp, and some of the families also joined us at Harvest Fest. While the Outreach Christmas Party will go on, you will not be seeing the little Christmas trees in the Narthex adorned with gift tags this year. The necessary information for individual gifts is not as readily available from our new guests at ACHIEVEability. We will continue to seek an alternative to put in place next year, but for this year, to contribute and support our guests, we welcome you to consider volunteering to help out with the Outreach Christmas Party, being held on Sunday, December 8th from 14pm. To volunteer please contact Kathleen Schneer, 215-740-3913 or kschneer@aol.com
A Guide For Walking the Labyrinth During Advent and Christmas - Sarah Elliott
Four Labyrinth Walks for the Advent Season: Walk 1: Handling change Read Luke 1: 26-38
Walk 3: Darkness and Light Read Isaiah 9:2
When the Angel Gabriel called Mary to follow a different path than the one she expected, she accepted this change of direction willingly and graciously. As you walk the labyrinth, notice how you navigate the turns in the path. Does this mirror how you react when the path of your life doesn’t unfold as you expect it to? Does a sudden change in direction upset you or throw you off balance? Or are you centered and gracious, like Mary? Try using Mary’s words as a mantra as you walk: “Let it be with me according to your word.”
Experiment with darkness and light on your walk. If you use a finger labyrinth or walk an indoor labyrinth, try dimming the lights in the room and lighting a candle. If you walk outdoors during the day, observe the light patterns on the path. If you walk outdoors at night, use a flashlight to illuminate the path no more than a few steps ahead of you. As you encounter darkness or light on your path, notice any physical or emotional sensations that may arise.
Walk 2: Preparing for new life Read Luke 1: 39-56
Walk 4: Waiting patiently Read James 5: 7-10
After the Angel Gabriel departed, Mary traveled to her cousin Elizabeth’s house and stayed for three months before returning home. Luke doesn’t tell us why Mary went there or what she did while she was there. Perhaps she needed to get away from her daily life and prepare herself, both her body and her spirit, for the life-changing event that was coming soon.
The word “Advent” means “coming” so the season of Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus. It’s a season of waiting, which requires patience. Priest and author Henri Nouwen wrote, “The word patience comes from the Latin verb patior, which means ‘to suffer.’ Waiting patiently is suffering through the present moment, tasting it to the full ….” Sometimes people feel impatient at times when they walk the labyrinth. If this happens to you, notice where and when you become impatient. Taste it to the full, explore your impatience without judgment, without pushing it away or changing it. What bodily sensations do you have? What thoughts preceded your impatience? Where on the path did the impatience arise? How and when does the impatience subside?
Use the labyrinth to re-enact this portion of Mary’s journey towards new life. Why are you going? What do you need while you are there? Go to the labyrinth as if you are on a journey, leaving behind as much as you can, perhaps carrying only car keys or house keys. Imagine that the center is your cousin Elizabeth’s house. Notice any physical or emotional sensations as you walk. How do you feel walking towards the center? While you are in the center? Walking out of the center?
Two Labyrinth Walks for the Christmas Season:Walk 1: Returning home Read Luke 2:8-20
As you walk the labyrinth, imagine that you are a shepherd who saw and heard the angels announcing the birth of Jesus. Walk towards Bethlehem in the center of the labyrinth to see the child in the manger. As you leave the center, reflect on the shepherds’ encounter with God. What was their journey home like? What would they tell their friends and family? How will their lives be different when they get home? What is your journey home like after you have a personal encounter with God? What will you tell your friends and family? How will your life be different? Walk 2: Giving your whole self Read Matthew 2:1-12
The wise men brought valuable gifts to the baby Jesus: gold, frankincense and myrrh. The most valuable gift that you can bring to Jesus is your whole self. Before you walk the labyrinth, find something from nature that you can hold in your hand and that you can leave in the center of the labyrinth – perhaps a stone, an acorn, or a pinecone. Holding this object in your hand, walk into the labyrinth and reflect on all the aspects that make up your whole self: your physical self, your emotional self, your personality, your strengths and weaknesses, your passions, your flaws, etc. In the center, imagine that your object represents your whole self and place it in the center of the labyrinth as your gift to Jesus. On the way out, notice any physical sensations or emotions that may arise.
WINTER SOLSTICE LABYRINTH WALK SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2019 - 4:30 PM
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has shined.” Isaiah 9:2
During Advent, we prepare ourselves for the birth of Jesus, the light of the world. On the longest night of the year, meditate on darkness and light with a guided candlelight labyrinth walk.
Rector Search The Rector Search Team is pleased to introduce The Rev. Melford “Bud” Holland, who will be partnering with the Vestry and both our Profile and Search Committees to help us through the remainder of our transition period. Some of you may already be familiar with Bud. He’s been a fixture in the diocese for decades. We are thrilled to have him joining us on this journey and ask that you keep him to your prayers. He has offered the following to introduce himself. "I enjoy working with others in discovering new creative ground for conversation and work, engaging in strategic planning, and utilizing resources to maximize the possibilities of mission and ministry. I believe that we all have gifts and wisdom to bring to the table. Valuing the ministries of others I seek to affirm and deepen the capacity of the church to articulate a vision of reconciliation and respond to that vision with creativity, energy, and commitment. Serving in a variety of capacities in the Church including being rector, staff resource in two dioceses and on the Presiding Bishop's staff, I have been privileged to work with wonderful people throughout the Church and to enjoy their diverse gifts.
Sarah Elliott Search Chair
Alan Smith Search Chair
Ginger Goodrich Profile Chair
"Do not be afraid, because I've redeemed you. I've called you by name; you are mine. Isaiah 43:1
I am married to Martha Ann (Annie) Henkle Holland. We have three children and six grandchildren. I enjoy photography, music, travel, sports, storytelling, and exploring new ideas and vistas. Conversations with others including family, colleagues, friends, and strangers are often rich and meaningful. I enjoy life and see the glass as “half full”.
- Bud +
Bud Holland Rector Search Consultant
“WHY IS THIS TAKING SO LONG?” AND OTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT THE INTERIM PERIOD - Sarah Elliott, Search Chair Waiting for the arrival of our new Rector is a bit like waiting for a seed to sprout in the garden. Once the seed is planted, nothing seems to happen for a while. We don’t see any signs of progress. Yet underground, out of sight, the seed is working very hard, making big changes, developing roots and preparing to send a shoot above ground. During this interim period at St. Thomas’, similar “underground” work is happening. Our Vestry, our Interim Rector and our staff are busy exploring ways to improve the way we worship and work together. Our Profile Committee is guiding us through the process of reflecting on who our congregation is, where we’ve been, and what we envision for the future. Our Search Committee is laying the foundation for its discernment work. Our Prayer Team is introducing ways for all of us to support this process in prayer. Our Search Consultant is providing experienced assistance. Our Diocese is supervising the search process to ensure that we are abiding by church law and best practices. This “underground” work is in addition to all the usual work it takes to operate a church as large and as active as St. Thomas’! Here are some frequently asked questions about the interim period and the search process:
“How long was our last interim period?” Our last interim period was 26 months long. Dick Hawkins’ last Sunday with us was May 30, 1993, and Marek joined us in August 1995.
“How long is the process supposed to take?” It depends. Each congregation moves at its own pace based on their unique situation. One guideline for estimating the length of an interim period is one month for each year of the previous rector’s tenure. Marek Zabriskie was with us for 23 years, so a two-year interim period would not be unusual. Marek’s last Sunday with us was October 28, 2018, so we are probably more than half-way through now.
Are we taking longer to find a new rector than we did 25 years ago?”
So far, we are taking about the same amount of time as we did 25 years ago when Dick Hawkins left. Both times, the work of preparing the Parish Profile began about 8 months after the Rector’s departure. Last time the Search Committee began reviewing applications 16 months after Dick’s departure and we anticipate that our Search Committee will begin at the same time. Last time the interview, discernment and call process took about 7 months and Marek arrived 2 months later. Our Search Committee anticipates needing the same amount of time, which would result in our new Rector arriving in September 2020.
What are we supposed to be doing during this interim period?” Reflect, correct, protect, and resurrect. Reflect: Who are we as a faith community without our former Rector? What is our vision and mission? What do we value? What unique combination of gifts do we have to offer the world? How is God working through us to transform lives? Correct: What isn’t working that we need to change? What can we improve? Where have we gotten too comfortable? Are there new ways of doing things? Protect: How do we identify and maintain the things that are working, the things that we value, and want to continue? Resurrect: How can we revitalize our faith community? What will our new life together look like? How can we encourage each other along the way?
Why does the interim period have to be so long?” Calling a new Rector is not the same as hiring an executive. We are inviting someone to enter into a relationship with us, so it’s a bit like getting married. It is vital that we understand who we are, what our mission and vision is, and where the Holy Spirit may be guiding us. This understanding comes as a result of a discernment process (an opportunity for reflection and discussion in community). If we rush through the work, or skip over some of it, we may end up with a Rector who is not a good fit for our congregation. That result would not be fair to either the new rector or to us.
The Prayer Team for Transition seeks your support!
The Prayer Team for Transition will be hosting a weekly meeting in MacCausland Chapel on Sunday mornings, from 9:15 to 9:45 AM starting in January. We invite you to consider carving out even part of that time to be together, reading from the morning's scripture and prayerfully reflecting on the needs of our parish during our transition.
Advent
The season of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the birth of Jesus at Christmas and the coming of Christ. The word "advent" comes from the Latin word for "coming". Advent is a four week season leading up to Christmas.
The season from the Feast of the Epiphany (Jan. 6) through the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The word Epiphany comes from the Greek word for “manifestation” or “showing forth.” It is when we witness the coming of the Magi, Baptism of Jesus, and other stories of the divinity of Christ.
Epiphany
Advent Playlist by Curt Welsh Awake My Soul Mumford & Sons
A Day in Their Shoes
Homecoming Josh Ritter
- Susan Hunsicker, Diocesan Council Member
Forever Is A Very Long Time The Tallest Man on Earth
When we think of people living in poverty, such necessities as a secure food supply, safe housing, or access to health care come to mind. But lack of time and reliable transportation are also major issues, as I learned when I took part in a poverty simulation in October. Sponsored by the Diocese of Pennsylvania with the Bucks County Opportunity Council, the event led participants through a month of life in poverty. We were each assigned a name and age, and each family had a group of chairs as its home. Tables around the room represented various agencies we had to deal with during each of the four 15-minute weeks. The tables were staffed by real workers. For instance, an actual principal ran the school, and there were two policemen from Jenkintown on hand. Our goal was to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table for the month. Those with full-time jobs had to spend 7 minutes each week at “work,” and then manage to fit all of their other obligations into the remaining 8 minutes. But the food stamp application took 3 weeks to be processed or the line was too long at the checkcashing agency or the bank was open only during working hours. Maybe the daycare center was closed because of an outbreak of lice, or the rent hadn’t been paid or someone in the family ended up with a medical problem or even in jail or juvenile detention.
One Day Matisyahu
Plus there was food shopping every week and kids to send to school – except for the week there was no school. And there was the person coming around selling drugs and stirring up other mischief. We had to present a transportation ticket everywhere we went or we wouldn’t be served, and obtaining more tickets was not easy. The family’s income was less than monthly expenses. It’s no wonder at least one family in the simulation ended up in the homeless shelter. Living in poverty is hard. The event was very well organized and a real eyeopener. I felt a little odd going through the aisles of the grocery store later that afternoon, and I gained a strong appreciation for what I have in my life.
The Maker Scott Fisher Crowded Table The Highwomen Salvation Song The Avett Brothers Flume Bon Iver Angels The xx O Come, O Come Emmanuel Sufjan Stevens Look on Down From The Bridge Mazzy Star Should Have Known Better Sufjan Stevens
The Once and Future Carpenter The Avett Brothers Open Your Eyes School of Seven Bells The Story Brandi Carlile Castle on the Hill Ed Sheraan In the River Rostam Sounds Like Hallelujah The Head and the Heart Mythological Beauty Big Thief The Stable Song Gregory Alan Isakov Sea of Love Landhorne Slim, Julie Andrews Happy Just to Be Nathaniel Rateliff Divisionary (Do The Right Thing) Ages and Ages Like Lions Blind Pilot Joy to You Baby Josh Ritter
Children, Youth, and Family Ministry Sundays
Godly Play (PreK-5th Grade)
11:15 AM
Children have an innate sense of the presence of God. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language, and to enhance their spiritual experience though wonder and play. Based on Montessori principles and developed using a spiral curriculum, the Godly Play method serves children through early, middle, and late childhood and beyond. No need to register – just come! Adult volunteers are needed. Come join us! Bible + Breakfast (6th-12th grade) What if I told you that you could watch the entire Bible as an animated story in three years just by coming to Sunday School? I’ll even sweeten the deal and throw in breakfast! Join us in the new Upper Room located across from MacColl Auditorium for B+B on Sundays. No need to register – just come!
Happening – 2/7-9 Adamstown, MD Happening is a national program designed, staffed, and run by Episcopal youth! This weekend will deepen your relationship with Jesus and connections with those on similar spiritual journeys. Most of this weekend is kept a surprise for those attending so they can fully live into the moment and the community. General activities include large group talks, small group discussion, prayer through art, and games! It is a retreat similar to New Beginnings for middle schoolers and Cursillo for adults. Happening will be held at Claggett Center in Adamstown, MD. Retreatants are responsible for personal transportation to and from the Claggett Center.
Bishop’s Ball – 12/7 Parish House (7 - 11 PM) Bringing back a tradition from the past, Bishop Daniel Gutierrez invites you to join him at the Bishop’s Ball. This annual formal event is themed “The Yule Ball” (think Harry Potter!) and will be held here at St. Thomas’ and open to students 6th grade and older.
*NEW* Epiphany Pageant – 1/5 @ 10 AM in the Church All children and youth are invited to help us retell the story of the birth of our Lord and the visit of the Magi! The Epiphany Pageant will take place on January 5 at 10AM in the Church. Scripts will be passed out during the Advent Festival on December 1. Sunday Practices will begin on December 7 and will take place from 9-9:45 AM in the Church. Dress Rehearsal will take place at 12:30 PM on January 4.
Kentucky Derby Dinner & Silent Auction – 5/2 @ 6 PM in MacColl AuditoriumYouth Ministry will host a Kentucky Derby Dinner and Silent Auction on May 2, 2020. Start thinking now what you can contribute to the auction. You can donate your time (mow a yard, babysit, run some errands) or you can ask fellow parishioners or local businesses for donations (mani/pedi, gift card, consultation). All money will go towards Mission Possible 2020.
Mission Possible: Middle School – July 26 - Aug 1 Germantown (Philadelphia) Join us on our 1st Staycation Mission Trip to Episcopal Mission Center in Germantown. This trip is open to students age 12 and up. The cost per student is $500* including all activities and meals.
Our Youth will engage in communal projects that include: community cleanups community gardening & environmental projects serving in hunger programs mentoring students in day camp programs basic home repairs & much more!*
Mission Possible: High School – June 28 - July 3 Puerto Rico Serving in a place where Spanish is the primary language will give our students an opportunity to step into a genuine cross-cultural experience. You’ll help address poverty by partnering with local organizations, and see firsthand what it looks like to do community development in an area that has survived a major natural disaster. Service in Puerto Rico is highly relational, whether you’re working with children, youth or the elderly. This trip is for students going into the 9th grade during the 20-21 school year (current 8th graders) through Class of 2020 graduates. The total cost of the trip is $500+airfare* per students. Contact Erika Bower for ways to earn money through participation in activites and fundraisers.
Music and Mission Talk Offered by Michael Smith as an Adult Forum A longer version of this talk was given to the adult forum at St. Thomas’ Church, Whitemarsh by Michael Smith on Sunday, Sept 22, 2019. It takes Ruth Meyers’ book “Missional Worship/Worshipful Mission” as a jumping off point to get our parish to think more intentionally about two things it values: worship and outreach. How does our parish get to the essential core of what it means to be a community of baptized followers of Jesus, nourished each week by the Eucharist? That essential core doesn’t lie in church membership, or in being Episcopalian. Like an onion, we’ve got to peel away those layers of cultural Christianity - all those things that have situated American Christianity in privilege and power- and see what is left. Our identity as followers of Jesus begins in our baptism, and continues in our participation in the public worship. As we are continually formed as followers of Jesus, we are called into the world to participate in God’s mission, or what has been commonly known throughout history as the Missio Dei. Let’s back up and examine some basic teachings on worship and on mission. Many of you know that the word worship derives from “worth-ship” - the state of having worth or value. Another word we throw around a lot is “liturgy.” What was shouted from the rooftops in the wake of Vatican II and the mid-20th century liturgical reforms was this: “Liturgy is the work of the people!” Well… ok. There was a great need to re-center the congregation’s role in the worship life of the church. But that battle cry doesn’t tell the whole story of the word. Another parsing of leitourgia is “a public work offered on behalf of the greater good (the whole population)”. WORSHIP for the good of the world. Hmmm…
Now on to mission. Mission - God’s work in the world - is already happening. Ruth Meyers puts it this way: “Rather than having its own mission, the church participates in mission.” We can think about it this way: an individual Christian who does missional work is part of a local church which organizes to do missional work at a greater scale...which is part of the Church Universal...which is only a part of the way God operates God’s mission of reconciliation in the world. So how do we DISCERN if a church “program” or “activity” is our good works or God’s mission? Here’s the thing - I think the church has zero, ZERO business in doing good works without explicitly naming God as our motivation and end result. Because it’s already being done by tons of very good non-profits. WE can offer a broken world something that humanism can’t - we can point them to a God who offers living water and the bread of life. I fear, though, that most of what we term “outreach” gets trapped in the humanism quadrant because we don’t want to be seen as Christian fanatics or zealots. You and I know that we are doing this out of our Christian beliefs - but do the people we are serving know that? Does anyone who witnesses our work know that? What would it look like if all our parish outreach and mission was indelibly stamped with the image of Jesus? Basically, the Missio Dei is this: Salvation is occuring - the world IS BEING reconciled to Christ. As Fr. Paul [Briggs] said recently, "our job is to see where in our community and world God is working and get on board with it". One brilliant image that Meyers uses is a spinning top. The stick at the core of the top represents worship, and specifically, baptism and eucharist. BUT this presupposes some things about Baptism that we as the Episcopal church have neglected to teach fully. We believe that Baptism is:
Adult Forum Sundays 11:15 AM in MacColl Auditorium We hope that you will take advantage of borrowing a copy of Walk in Love in order to prepare for future Forums. The chapters are listed for your convenience. You do not have to have read the book in order to enjoy and participate in the discussions.
December 1 - Advent Fair A favorite tradition at St. Thomas’, the Advent Fair is a wonderful way to begin the season of watching, waiting, and hoping. Activities include Advent wreath making, Advent-in-a-bag, a light breakfast, and more. December 8 - Outreach Christmas Party No Forum today, but please consider volunteering at our annual Christmas celebration for some special families from ACHIEVEability. December 15 - Dr. Pete Enns – How the Bible Actually Works A favorite speaker at St. Thomas’, Pete Enns returns to talk about his new book, How the Bible Actually Works. The Bible isn't so much a book that tells us what to do or think. Rather it is an ancient, ambiguous, and diverse collection of writings that can’t be made into a rulebook or owner’s manual, but instead invites us on a journey of wisdom so we can process for ourselves our lives of faith. December 22 - Christmas Carol Sing-Along Christmas is almost here! Come for cookies, cider, and singing. Michael Smith will accompany us and will be taking requests. Come with your favorite song in mind and share with us why you love it. (As long as it’s not, “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer”). December 29 - Coffee and Conversation On this 5th day of Christmas, come and reconnect with friends and maybe meet a new one. We will have conversation starters on each table if you choose to use them, or just take this time to catch up and compare who got the best gift. January 5 - Chapter 10 of Walk in Love - All Times are your Seasons: The Liturgical Year Representatives from the Worship and Arts Commission, Altar Guild, and Flower Guild will share how the beauty of the liturgical year is reflected in our worship and how the sights, sounds, and smells of worship help us to experience Christ through our senses. January 12 - David Griffith of Episcopal Community Services January 19 - Pack-A-Thon This all age outreach gathering is in partnership with Rise Against Hunger. Together, we will package 15,000 meals for those experiencing food insecurity around the world. January 26 - Chapters 4 and 5 of Walk in Love – Eucharistic Practices and Beliefs The Holy Eucharist is the sacrament that Episcopalians experience most often, but do we know what we are doing? Is it possible we take this “routine” sacrament for granted? And how do our practices in worship point us toward and prepare us to receive the Holy Eucharist? Paul Briggs will lead this Forum on this anything but ordinary sacrament.
APPROACHING THE GOSPELS TOGETHER: A UNIQUE SMALL-GROUP APPROACH TO GOSPEL STUDY - Ginger Goodrich and Sarah Elliott One of the ways we live out our mission to “Love, Equip, Serve” is by offering opportunities to read and wrestle with the Gospels. Several of our Bible study groups use a unique small-group approach to Gospel study called Approaching the Gospels Together (“AGT”). Designed for text-centered reading and facilitated lively group discussion, this focus on the life and teachings of Jesus encourages discovery, inspiration and spiritual growth. The goal of AGT is simply to open the Gospels and see what’s there. To help us do that, we use a unique arrangement of the four Gospels, called Records of the Life of Jesus by Dr. Henry Sharman. The first half of Dr. Sharman’s book has the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke) arranged in 3 parallel columns on each page. The second half has the Gospel of John, cross-referenced to the Synoptics. Seeing the Gospels laid out side by side and cross-referenced highlights their similarities and their differences, which helps the group dig further down into the meaning of the text. AGT groups begin by reading the Synoptic Gospels in parallel. These three Gospels have a similar perspective on Jesus’ ministry, including many of the same stories, often in the same sequence and with similar wording. (“Synoptic” comes from a Greek word meaning “able to be seen together.”) The experience with the Synoptics prepares the group to read the Gospel of John next. AGT groups often use the same approach to then read other books of the Bible: Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles, Revelation or one of the Old Testament books. This approach is suitable for everyone who is looking for a fresh way to encounter Jesus through the Gospel text – no matter how much or how little experience one has with the Bible. In the words of St. Gregory the Great, “Scripture is like a river broad and deep: shallow enough here for the lamb to go wading, but deep enough there for the elephant to swim.” Currently there are three groups at St. Thomas’ using the AGT approach. You are welcome to join any of these groups, no matter which book of the Bible they are reading! Matthew, Mark, Luke & Dawn is reading the Synoptic Gospels (Wednesday mornings, 7-8 a.m., all year round, co-ed group) Thursday Women’s Group is reading a selection of Hebrew Scriptures related to Jesus (Thursday mornings, 10-11:30 a.m., September to May, women only) Women of the Word is reading the Gospel of John (Friday mornings, 9:30-11 a.m., September to May, women only)
If you are interested in learning more about AGT, visit the website www.approachingthegospelstogether.com or contact one of the group facilitators: Ginger Goodrich (vpgoodrich@gmail.com) or Sarah Elliott (ss.elliott@comcast.net). If none of these groups fits into your schedule, let’s talk about launching a new group!
Music and Mission - continued
Initiation into christian life Life changing - a new direction. Death. Drowning. Resurrection. Coupled with formation. With infant Baptism, sponsors promise to see to this. Adult Baptism is hopefully preceded by catechesis. It is completely against not only the Book of Common Prayer and Episcopal theology but also centuries of historic solid Christian teaching to see Baptism as a nice family milestone and a chance for pictures and then cake - “something we really ought to do, I suppose.” And yet that is precisely what the mainline American church has turned it into. Baptism is the entry into Christian life, and the Eucharist is the sacrament that sustains it, so Communion without or before Baptism isn’t sound. It’s not our job to be the gatekeepers or to check at the Communion rail, but it is our job to teach this. I think it’s interesting to note that the church is called to baptize and make disciples as our outward facing act - not give out communion - that’s our inward facing act. So Baptism and Eucharist energize the “spin” that sets the spirals in motion. Those spirals are our activities in the world: Meyers enumerates them as reconciliation, witness and proclamation, prayer and contemplation, inculturation, work for justice, peace, and the integrity of creation, and the practice of inter-religious dialogue. Now the top is spinning- energized by the sacraments, these activities send energy out into the world...but visualize the spirals- that energy also returns BACK to the core. Our mission brings us back to worship to be fed and inspired to go out again. All our good works and outreach - when we get depleted from them- how do we re-energize? WORK THE CORE - Baptismal Covenant, vocation, Eucharist. And what fingers first set the top in motion? Surely not ours. The Holy Spirit’s. This assumes that we want to and have to move beyond ourSELVES - our wants, our needs, our preferences, our habits - and into GOD’s desire for our live s- individual and collective. Have you ever thought about the dismissal as a scary thing? We don’t know what’s been happening outside these walls while we’ve been in here. Anything could be going on out there. And we’re about to be told to hustle out of here So here we are. St. Thomas’ Church is at the point of dismissal - it’s about to happen- we’re at that intersection. Can we do this? Go in peace to love (worship) and Serve (mission) the Lord! (Thanks be to God.)
Healing The Wednesday Eucharist at 10 AM. in Cheston Chapel has had a long tradition of including a public service of healing (sometimes referred to as unction). Beginning with the season of Advent, we will offer prayers for healing accompanied with the laying on of hands and anointing with oil every week. Making this a weekly part of the service will be less confusing to occasional visitors or newcomers, as previously, healing prayer was offered only twice a month. Equally important, it is a reminder in our busy lives of the opportunity available at St. Thomas’ to intercede for those who are ill, the needs of the world, and for ourselves. The worship resource titled, Enriching Our Worship, states that "healing is never seen as an end in itself. Scripture teaches us that Jesus’ healings were a sign of the reign of God come near, of God’s marvelous power and presence among us. Healing, then, is not merely the alleviation of affliction, but testimony to the wholeness and salvation that God intends for us." I commend the mid-week Eucharist to you in the beautiful and intimate setting of Cheston Chapel. May we all come to know the presence and power of Christ, the compassionate one in our midst. - Paul Briggs
Church of the Advocate Feeding Ministry - Robin Worgan Our outreach program of cooking and serving food at Church of the Advocate soup kitchen is in its 6th year running.
Every Third Monday of each month (except July and August) St. Thomas' volunteers bring a healthy meal for 100 to Church of the Advocate at 19th and Diamond Street. This meal has been prepared with loving hands by either a commission, our youth group, or a group of friends and families in the Parish House kitchen. Each third Monday when I am the one who is driving the meal there, I park and deliver and say "hi" to Mamie who has run the kitchen since before our outreach partnership began. Mamie cooks all the other weekdays of the month except for the Monday that St. Thomas’ provides a meal. I am continually inspired by her stamina, devotion and ability to plan ahead for various occasions as well as her ability to improvise when there is a budget cut or certain items are unavailable. After we catch up, I often take some prayerful moments in their beautiful sanctuary before it’s time to serve. Church of the Advocate is a historic and spiritual treasure that many of you may not know about: It was completed in 1897 as a memorial to civil rights leader George W. South. On July 29th, 1974 the first female priests in the Episcopal church were ordained there. When you walk into the sanctuary, you immediately feel a sense of its history due to its gothic revival architecture and the 14 unique and powerful murals found throughout the worship space. During the 1970s, African-American artists painted large scale vignettes that depict the black experience in America from slavery to the present. They are arranged around the nave in biblical cycle beginning with the Garden of Eden and ending with the Apocalypse. Many famous AfricanAmericans are portrayed in these paintings such as Harriet Tubman, W.E.B. Dubois, and Malcolm X. Unfortunately, though, the sanctuary is in poor condition, and a campaign is under way to repair the areas of need.
Family Day theme announced By James Lopez
Are you curious? I am hoping to organize a guided tour of the murals at COA for our parishioners at a future A parent-teacher Parent-teacher conferences time. Until then, would you like to organize a group to conference, parent-teacher supplement thebe information cook? Would you like to serve? Please in touch. I will interview need or parents' conveyed by report cards by May, volunteers to cook for February, March, April, June. Cooking the weekend before the third evening, isand a short meeting oroccurs focusing on students' specific Monday of each Would you just like conference between the month. strengths andinstead weaknesses in to make dessert Would yousubjects like to come parents and teachers of for 100? individual and and play their piano or another instrument or sing during the students to discuss children's generalizing the level of intermeal time from 12-1?
progress at school and find curricular skills and solutions to academic or in touch competences. If so, please be with me at behavioralrobinlentzworgan@gmail.com problems. or 215-740-7897
Reaching Out, Making Connections - Anne Anspach, Outreach Co-Chair
Outreach has been busy as the Second Saturday Sales came to a close on November 9. It has been a banner year for the sales with more guests on the Hill and more items sold! On October 27, we celebrated another fun-filled Harvest Fest where our guests were treated to a delicious lunch and their children took hayrides and enjoyed games and face painting. We want to thank the 100 (and counting) outreach volunteers who worked tirelessly at the Barn and attend to so many details to live out their mission to serve God by serving others.
- Pam Serra, Outreach Commission
Parishioner Susan McCabe reached out to a friend who volunteers for the Historic Fair Hill organization. That connection lead to an application and grant award from the St. Thomas’ Outreach Fund, also known as The Fernley Fund, to underwrite its Literacy Support Partnership Project designed to “vault students at the Julia de Burgos Elementary School to new levels of reading skills and a passion for books.” Reaching out to the school to experience the project firsthand, I saw the great need for books of all kinds, even those gently used. That realization lead to my reaching out to Jim Weiss (Barn Chair) and Lin Peasley (in charge of books at the barn) to see if we could help. A volunteer from the program connected with Lin and last month picked up two large cartons of books to be given to parents during upcoming parent-teacher conferences. Now children’s books donated by our parishioners will find their way to homes of students of the Julia de Burgos School in North Philadelphia. Do you know an individual or non-profit organization that seeks to find new ways to serve others? They may be eligible for a Fernley Fund grant. Reach out, make connections and spread the word!
Going Deeper
Outline: March 1 Beginnings March 8 Bible Stories March 15 History March 22 Faith: Whom Do We Trust? March 29 Navigating the Church (include introduction to Holy Week) April 5 Palm Sunday (no Class) April 12 Easter Day (no Class) April 19 Resurrection Life April 26 What is God Calling You to Do? May 3 Spirituality: Created for Prayer May 10 Worship: Responding to God’s Blessings May 17 Sacraments May 24 Behind the Scenes: Tour of St. Thomas’ May 31 Bishop’s Visitation June 7 What now?
Adult Inquiry & Affirmation of Faith: Inquirers’ Class Sundays 9:00-9:45AM Hutchinson Room (next to the MacCausland Chapel) This course is designed to welcome people who may be new to the Episcopal Church and/or for long time Episcopalians rediscover a renewed faith. Our outline is guided by Your Faith, Your Life by Jenifer Gamber .
"What's in the Box?" - Bev Johnson, Pastoral Care Commission This question was asked of me by a resident of Rydall Park as I walked through the lobby on my way to share communion with one of our members. I told her the purpose of my visit, and she explained that since she was Jewish, she was unfamiliar with the ritual although she had seen it on television. I took the opportunity to sit with her and show her the elements in the kit - not to present Episcopalians 101 - but to engage her in conversation since she seemed lonely and I thought perhaps she was sitting in the lobby for company. The Episcopal Church has a long standing tradition of sending lay representatives out to share this Sacrament with our members no longer able to attend church due to extended illness or infirmity. This does not replace the pastoral care of the clergy, but rather augments their dedicated service. In September, Tim Steeves (with the asistance of our deacon ,Dennis Bingham) facilitated the training of 8 new Lay Eucharistic Visitors (LEV's) (pictured below), bringing the total of congregational LEV's to 12, joining Jeff Korn, Richard Lyntton, Trudy O'Leary, and Bev Johnson. Upon completion of training, the priest petitions the bishop for the licensure of each candidate . The license is effective for 3 years and is then renewed after additional training.
LEV's are not just trained in the Canons for Eucharistic Visitors . We become familiar with the basics of listening, confidentiality, ministering to the sick and elderly, and those grieving. We are urged to engage with those we visit and be attentive to their expressed concerns or needs, and use our disression to report back to clergy any situation we feel requires their attention and follow up. This ministry is a privilege and a responsibility. It is an outward and visible sign to our homebound that they, too, gather around the Lord's table with us in spirit and continue to be part of our church family. If you, a family member, or member of our congregation wish to receive the Sacrament in their home or a medical facility, please call Tim Steeves at 267626-7528. (If necessary, leave your name, phone number, and a brief message and Tim will return your call as quickly as possible).
8 New Eucharistic Visitors Licensed and to be Commissioned on December 1: Carol Proud + Debbie Buck + William Gillespie + Helen Stephan + Emily Given + Erika Bower + Ed Meyers + Ben Linton
St. Thomas' Preschool STP is reducing waste by going green, school-wide, with reusable water bottles! It all started with our Orange Tigers class several years ago and each year it expanded to one, two, and now all 7 classrooms! We are happy to report this year we are 100% reusable water bottles! Our students are not only saving the earth by reducing waste, it is healthier for our kids too! We are also saving money by not buying 100s of paper cups monthly for the kids to use during lunch and snack. Congratulations to our teachers and families!
National Episcopal School Week included a visit from The Rev. Dan Heischman, Director of the National Associate of Episcopal Schools, and a celebration of the longtime service of Kathleen Duke (20 yrs), Anita Totten (20 yrs), Leigh Heritage (30yrs), and Wendy Clinton (30yrs) . The morning was topped off by the blessing of our revitalized playspace dedicated to Cynthia Cheston. Also pictured here - Dana Toedtman, Head of the Preschool Board. Shari Petrakis, Preschool Director, celebrates her 10th year of ministry
Registration for September 2020
January 13-24 - Registration for current families January 24 – 31 - Registration for parishioners and previous families February 1st - Open registration for ALL families For more information, stthomaspreschoolpa.com
The Catholic missions of the Sisters of Mercy and Georgian Court Catholic University of New Jersey joined with others who set out to organize other missions to benefit more communities with drinking water and basic sanitation projects. This is how Robin MacNamara and family of the St. Thomas' Church, Carmen Unanue and family and Jan Joseph of the Episcopal Church, and now Partnership for Clean Water and Education PCWE have organized their own missions and each year they have raised funds and developed water and sanitation projects for communities in need. Hundreds of people in many communities now enjoy having water for human consumption in their houses where they live, as well as latrines and Education, for hence their living conditions and life quality has improved, thanks to these sensitive people that have worked hard these years to change Honduran lives.
Honduras Water Mission -Jacobo Nunez, Director of Agua Para el Pueblo Agua para el Pueblo has worked in the Copan area before 2000 for approximately 20 years now. Since then, numerous communities have been benefited by supporting them in the provision of drinking water and basic sanitation systems (latrine construction). In this area of Copan in the municipalities of CabaĂąas, Santa Rita and Copan Ruins there were many communities that did not have access to clean water for human consumption or sanitation (facilities for human residual disposal) Agua Para el Pueblo selected this area to help communities with water and sanitation needs, at the beginning with support from the Inter-American and Fundeso a Foundation of Spain.
Agua Para el Pueblo every year, leads investigations on the communities with no access to water, and do topographic surveys, hydraulic designs and budgets according to the needs and conditions of each place and presents a proposal to each of the missions (St. Thomas' Church and PCWE) that are currently supporting us in Copan. Likewise every year these missions come to Honduras, and visit the communities they are supporting. This year the community benefited by the mission of Rob McNamara (St. Thomas' Church) was Las Delicias in the municipality of CabaĂąas.
Honduras Water Mission - Continued
Las Delicias is a community up in the mountains that has been left behind by the government and other organizations, with 20 homes and approximately 120 people between adults and children. This community did not have access to water for human consumption or sanitation (latrines), its inhabitants are very poor because in this place there is no permanent employment, only during the coffee cultivation or harvesting activities it is when employment is provided. They live of sustainable agriculture, they harvest basic grains such as corn and beans to eat during the year and also raise domestic animals such as chickens, some raise pigs to improve their diet. When they get sick, they have difficulty going out of their village to receive medical attention to a Health Center because there is no public transport, there is a private road where occasionally there ride private cars that can give them rides, otherwise they should walk almost an hour to a point where they can find public transport. This community have taken a great step towards development now that they have water and latrines in their homes, they will no longer walk far to bring water to their homes, they have received talks to improve their hygienic practices and know have latrines, this will certainly improve the health of the population especially of children reducing diarrheal diseases, they are very grateful to Rob McNamara's Mission and await his return to inaugurate this project with a party.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION Drinking water system 1. Water intake 2. Transmission line. 3. 5,000 Gallon Storage Tank 4. Distribution Network 5. 18 Latrines 6. Educational Talks on Health and Hygiene Recent Honduras Water Missionaries Kay Sheldon + Andy Sheldon + Jim Weiss Winslow Weiss + Rob Macnamara + Dan Gargel + Chris Pacheco + Kevin Brooks + Roberta Water Missionaries Over the Years: Burns Family + Roak Family + Bitterman Family + Worgan Family + Arlene Johnston Celeste Family + MacNamara Family + Many Supporters
A Retreat at Holy Cross Monastery Planned for March Twelve spaces have been reserved for St. Thomas’s Lenten Retreat at Holy Cross Monastery in West Park, New York on the weekend of March 6 - 8, 2020. The weekend is open to men and women and costs $200 (includes meals and single room). Additional information is available at https://holycrossmonastery.com Contact the Rev. Paul Briggs pbriggs@stthomaswhitemarsh.org with questions or to reserve your place.
Michael Smith Elected to Royal School of Church Music Board
THE NEEDLEPOINT KNEELER PROJECT NEARS COMPLETION - Pam Serra
The needlepoint kneeler project, begun almost 20 years ago by Ibitz Dolan and Mary Ann Mackin, has come to fruition. All of the plain, red kneelers have now been either covered by personally selected designs or reserved by individuals who are in various stages of work on their kneelers. Many thanks to all the parishioners who commissioned and/or stitched these vibrant additions to our worship space.
Our Minister of Music, Michael Smith, was recently elected to a 3 year term on the board of the Royal School of Church Music. The RSCM is an international, ecumenical organization that promotes excellence in choral music and provides resources for building chorister programs. It has more than 400 affiliated parishes in America. Our own chorister program is part of this work. Michael also serves on the board of the Yale Glee Club and the Bishop’s Committee for Liturgical Discernment.
Creation Care: Solar Initatives at St. Thomas' - Pam McKernan, Solar Taskforce In 1969 the Beatles released the hit song “Here Comes the Sun.” It quickly rose to the top of the charts becoming a fan favorite everywhere. In 2020, St. Thomas has plans to introduce an updated version - ”Here Come the Solar Panels,” also anticipated to be received with rave reviews. But first, some background. Three years ago, St. Thomas completed a successful capital campaign allowing the Church to invest and build on our campus. With this investment and expansion, came increased cost associated with ministry. The Finance Committee, tasked with submitting a balanced budget to the Vestry, paused and asked, “What can be done?” They listened to a long time Church member and leader, familiar with the ongoing requests for donations, ask “What is St. Thomas doing to help itself?” Ideas were submitted, discussed and it was agreed…the use of a small portion (approximately 2 acres) of the “Back Ten” to install solar panels warranted, a closer look. The Solar Task Force was formed. St. Thomas has nine (9) PECO accounts (one for each building and one for a lighted sign) that in 2016 (the year the Capital Campaign funded construction was finished) drew 337,000 kWh. For 2019, we are on track to exceed 450,000 kWh; representing a 30%+ increase in electricity consumption. PECO’s rates vary for each account but assuming an “aggregated” rate of just over 12 cents / kWh, St. Thomas will spend almost $55,000 on electricity this year. Figuring a 3% increase annually in energy costs; in 25 years, St. Thomas can expect to spend over $100,000 a year on electricity (same usage, no additional / fewer buildings) and over $1.8M on electricity in total. The Solar Task Force’s first order of business was to confirm the viability of panels for a non-profit. While tax deductions and credits for solar installations are well known, how would a non-tax paying non-profit be able to leverage them? Would the cost of the panels justify the savings? Is the “Back 10,” a parcel of land that sits between St. Thomas and McNeil, be suitable for solar panels? Would it be disrupting any current uses? Would it violate any local zoning ordinances?
After much research, conversations with other churches, and walks around the property, all indications suggest installing solar panels made a lot of sense. The Back 10 is well situated for solar panels; no large trees need to be removed; it is flat with an excellent southern exposure…ideal for solar panels. Some “brush” will have to be cleared but the goal is to remove as little as possible so the remaining brush will be a “screen” to hide the panels from street and parking lot views. Finally, the installation requires no permit variances and the Community Gardens will remain untouched. The “Back 10” has a long history and there have been many ideas proposed on how to better utilize the land beyond just the Community Gardens. Nature lovers prefer plans involving open space; Finance Committee members mull over revenue generating options. Renting the land to a local school to use as a practice field and building storage sheds are some examples of the ideas that have been vetted. The Task Force believes the solar panels provides a “win-win” – helping the environment AND the bottom line. John Kepner, who was active in prior efforts regarding use of the Back 10, summed it up very well in a letter to the Vestry: “I believe the business and financial structure of the proposal are solid… Another important positive to me (and, I am sure many other parishioners) is the environmental impact: as a Christian community, we have a responsibility to preserve this incredible earth God has given us.”
The Solar Task Force recommends proceeding with a Five Year Power Service Agreement (PSA) that involves an initial payment and then a buyout in year 6. The PSA enables all tax incentives to be fully leveraged and monetized; an initial payment and year 6 buyout minimizes risk while maximizing savings. During the five year PSA, St. Thomas will have power provided at an agreed to fee and will receive income from the sale of Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs). At year six after completing the buyout, St Thomas, will own the panels and electricity costs will be vastly reduced. The panels will provide the majority of St Thomas’ electricity and SREC sales will continue as a source of income; the electricity costs are reduced to panel maintenance, PECO distribution costs and the purchase of electricity the Church requires over and above what the panels produce. The panels come with a 25 year Power Producing Warranty and through our conservation efforts, we have the potential to save over $500,000 in operating expenses during the next 25 years.
Looking beyond the environment, the Task Force views the panels as a gift to the community. As Amy Roak, Church member and leader of Emily Carey Learning Center’s STEAM room, wrote: “the addition of solar panels would be a welcome addition to inspire solar STEAM curriculum.” Finally, the project fully supports the Genesis Covenant. For those not familiar with the covenant, I urge you to learn more. The Episcopal Church adopted the Genesis Covenant at the 76th General Convention in July 2009. In doing so, the Church recognized the crisis of climate change and importance of all faith institutions to take practical actions to address this crisis. Simply stated, the Covenant challenges us to Reduce Energy Use, Save Money, and Care for God’s Creation. The solar panel project supports this in every way. In the closing, St. Thomas’ new tune may never reach the popularity of the famous Beatles’ song, however, it’s likely to be a big hit! For more about the Episcopal Church's Genesis Covenant, episcopalchurch.org/files/genesis_convenant_final.pdf
Looking beyond financial benefits, the panels provide a means to materially reduce the Church’s carbon footprint. A system of this size has the potential to: Eliminate the same amount of carbon emissions that would result from burning 305,033 pounds of coal…each year. Or eliminate the CO2 emissions from charging 35,578,560 smart phones. Or provide the equivalent greenhouse gas emissions avoidance of switching 10,598 incandescent lamps to LEDs.
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS DURING ADVENT Quiet, Simple Eucharist 7:00 PM McCausland Chapel
SERVICE OF COMFORT AND HEALING DECEMBER 18 - 7:00 PM A gentle, contemplative service for those who are carrying heavy burdens, pain, or loss during this season of celebration.
C H R I S T M A S
M E M O R I A L S
Christmas is a wonderful time at. St. Thomas''. The church is decorated with spectacular floral displays, all created and arranged by our own Flower Guild. Our ears are in for a treat, as well, with familiar carols and special Christmas music presented by St. Thomas' Parish Choir, St. Thomas' Choristers, and a brass ensemble. One of the many joys of our celebration of Christmas is the pleasure of giving. Christmas allows us the opportunity to support these beautiful ministries and at the same time honor and remember loved ones and others who have been important in our lives. Your gift, no matter how great or small, will make a difference in our ability to continue to present excellent sacred music and magnificent flowers at st. Thomas" Church, Whitemarsh. All donors will be recognized in the Christmas Eve leaflets if we have received your donation by Monday, December 9th.
You may wish to give at one of the following levels: $500 or more (Seraphim) $250-499 (Cherubim) $100-249 (Angel) $1-99 (Supporter) Please place in the offering plate or mail to the church office: Christmas Memorials - St. Thomas' Church - 7020 Camp Hill Road - Fort Washington, PA - 19034
tfi G ci s u M
My Name: _________________________________________________________ Email/Phone: ______________________________________________________ Gift Amount: ______________________________________________________ Names for Leaflet (in honor/memory of):
t f i G r e w ol F
My Name: _________________________________________________________ Email/Phone: ______________________________________________________ Gift Amount: ______________________________________________________ Names for Leaflet (in honor/memory of):
St. Thomas' Church, Whitemarsh 7020 Camp Hill Road Fort Washington, PA 19034
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