The Record Fall 2015 by Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

FALL 2015

Diocesan Convention Community leaders remember Fallen Angels at Church of the Messiah

Episcopalooza comes to Lincoln Park

For the third year in a row, the Youth and Young Adult ministry for the Diocese of Michigan ushered in the start of the school year with Episcopalooza. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event was hosted by St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and All Angels, Lincoln Park. The carnival attractions included a backpack giveaway for school-aged youths.

The Record Fall 2015

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

The Record Fall 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The 181st Diocesan Convention Episcopal Diocese of Michigan Episcopal Church Center 4800 Woodward Ave. Detroit, MI 48201-1399 (313) 832-4400 Toll Free (866) 545-6424 Submissions: submit@edomi.org

Election results. Page 9

The Rt. Reverend Wendell N. Gibbs Jr. Bishop of the Diocese bishop@edomi.org

The Reverend Michelle Meech Ministry Developer mmeech@edomi.org

James Gettel Canon for Congregational Life jgettel@edomi.org

The Reverend Eric Williams Director of Whitaker Institute ewilliams@edomi.org

Jennifer Michalak Secretary Diocesan Administration jmichalak@edomi.org Beth Rowley Executive Assistant Office of the Bishop browley@edomi.org Rick Schulte Diocesan Communications Editor, The Record therecord@edomi.org

A good sign of the economic state of our diocese and the congregations that comprise it: The proposed 2016 budget of $2.26 million passed unanimously; also, an opportunity to view presentations online. Page 7 A listing of resolutions, plus the outcome of each. Page 8

The Record is a quarterly magazine for the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan. Fall 2015

Canon Jo Ann Hardy Diocesan Administrator jhardy@edomi.org

Bishop Gibbs delivers his convention address, relating to the event’s theme of “Waters of Diversity: Race Relations and Diversity.” Page 6

Eric Travis Missioner for Youth and Young Adults etravis@edomi.org Mark Miliotto Director of Finance mmiliotto@edomi.org Kara Chapman Accountant kchapman@edomi.org Knena Causey Whitaker Institute kcausey@edomi.org

The Rev. Terri Pilarski of Christ Episcopal Church, Dearborn speaks to the issue of the refugee crisis and the importance of resettlement. Page 10

Remembering all Fallen Angels

For the eighth consecutive year, Church of the Messiah, Detroit makes sure all lives lost as the result of gun violence are not forgotten. Page 12

Something old, something new

The traditions of a rural community and the infusion of youth have created a great community at Christ Church, Pleasant Lake. Page 15

Book Review

Dawn McDuffie takes a look at “Somewhere Safe With Somebody Good.” Page 17

The Final Word

The city of Inkster has been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons. But the community – including St. Clement’s Church, Inkster – is keeping a hopeful eye toward the future. Page 19

Professional print services provided by Grigg Graphic Services, Southfield (248) 356-5005 • www.grigg.com

The Record Fall 2015

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

The Whitaker Institute has served the Diocese of Michigan for over 60 years. Known as the “School Without Walls,” Whitaker has taken quality educational offerings to the people, right where they live throughout the diocese. This mission has never been more important. For a variety of reasons, economic and cultural as well as theological, the Episcopal Church today is relying more and more on the ministry of all the baptized to carry out God’s mission in the world. The Whitaker Institute is committed to supporting that ministry with training, education and resources. OUR ROLE IN THE DIOCESE The Whitaker Advisory Council, at their planning retreat in March 2015, articulated their vision for Whitaker’s programs. A Whitaker program should: HAVE: Expert and curriculum WITH: Broad appeal and/or canonical need TO: Educate and inspire AS A: Single event or series or resource AND IS: Best accomplished on the diocesan level OUR CORE PROGRAMS 1. Vocational Discernment. Our signature program is Exploring Your Spiritual Journey, a year-long intentional discernment process. This course is not just for those who are considering a call to ordination, but offers anyone who is serious about their faith the space and time and resources to hear God’s call more clearly in their life. 2. Diaconal Formation, which is now accomplished through the three-year Academy for Vocational Leadership. Students attend eleven weekend retreats a year and receive instruction in Scripture, Church History, Theology and Ethics, as well as a variety of practical modules in liturgy, pastoral care and administration. 3. Lay Licensed Ministries. These include trainings for Worship Leaders, Lay Preachers and from time to time Eucharistic Ministers and Visitors. 4. General Adult Formation. We also offer a variety of classes and workshops designed to provide continuing education and formation opportunities for clergy and lay members of the diocese which supplement and are sometimes offered in conjunction with offerings in congregations. All members of the diocese are, for example, welcome to attend the academic classes offered through the Academy. Other programs include music in small congregations, family systems theory, evangelism through storytelling and many others. Whitaker also takes a leading role in planning and leading the Ministry Fair/Household of God event in May. In 2016 we are proud to welcome the Rev. Becca Stevens as our speaker along with women from Thistle Farms.

Take the next step. Learn more online at www.edomi.org/WhitakerInstitute, where you may sign up for the monthly newsletter. You may also contact the Rev. Eric Williams, Whitaker Director, to visit your church. Reach him at ewilliams@edomi.org or call (313) 833-4412. Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

The Record Fall 2015

The 181st Diocesan Convention

Bishop Gibbs addresses event’s theme of race relations, diversity

Bishop Wendell N. Gibbs Jr. addressed the 181st Diocesan Convention Oct. 24, speaking to the convention theme of “Waters of Reconciliation: Race Relations and Diversity.” “I stand before you today as a sinner among sinners; in need of the flowing waters of reconciliation and saved only by the grace of our loving God. I stand before you today to declare what we all know: this world in which we live is broken and hurting and in desperate need of those same flowing waters and God’s saving grace,” he said to open his remarks. “And, I stand before you today and submit that this world most certainly needs us to au-

thentically love our neighbor and respect their human dignity.” The 10th bishop of the diocese noted he previously made a point one on the specific issue of recognizing human dignity nine years earlier at convention, asking if we give an appropriate response to an inappropriate situation. “What is our reaction when we hear a joke that derides another race, ethnicity, gender or someone’s sexual orientation? What is our response when we become aware that a female coworker is being paid less to do the same job as a male coworker? If you are Caucasian, how do you react when someone confronts you about your privilege? If you are a person of color, what is

your first response that comes to mind when you hear someone say, ‘I’m not a racist, some of my best friends are black’,” the bishop said. He also touched on issues relating to society, such as responsible gun ownership. He reiterated he has no desire for anyone to ban handguns; instead, he is on the side of responsible use. “I am not an advocate of diminishing the freedoms of the Second Amendment; however, I am an advocate of honoring the rights, freedoms and dignity of all people so that guns and gun violence do not destroy the freedoms of others,” he said. “I particularly do not support and will not condone the concealed carry

The Record Fall 2015

of guns in churches of this diocese, period.” This was met by a lengthy ovation from the convention delegates and guests. Please watch the video for Bishop Gibbs’ entire address at www.edomi.org/dc181address. You may also scan the QR code to view the video from your smartphone.

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

DIOCESAN CONVENTION

Budget of $2.26 million approved for 2016 With participation from each church, including a steadily increasing number of churches pledging a full apportionment for the coming year, the 2016 Episcopal Diocese of Michigan budget of $2.26 million received unanimous passage at Diocesan Convention. Full apportionment has steadily increased from 63 percent for the 2013 budget to 70 percent for the upcoming budget year. After gathering information from Mission Budget Committee hearings throughout the year and evaluating budget suggestions, a budget was created which should be able to afford some positive changes, such as fully funding the position of ministry developer, adding a new part-time position in the diocesan accounting department, providing a cost of living allowance increase for members of the bishop’s staff and reducing or eliminating reliance on spending from reserves. Another significant change at the local level comes from a new formula for assessment approved at General Convention this past summer. The formula decreases the annual assessment for the Episcopal Church to decrease from 19 to 18 percent with the 2016 budget. (That number will also drop in the 2017 budget, to 16.5 percent). This should provide a savings of approximately $20,000 to our diocese in the coming year – money that can be held locally to stabilize our own budget. In addition, there will also be a 2.5 percent increase in funding for social justice and advocacy grants.

Watch more from DC 181 We’ve provided a unique opportunity to view our speakers and much of the conversation relating to various convention topics. Go to www.edomi.org or scan the QR code to view more.

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

The Record Fall 2015

RESOLUTIONS Resolution 1: Diocesan Funding for the Justice and Peace Advocacy Ministries Originator: The Rev. Ellis Clifton Jr. The resolution seeks continued recognition and funding the Justice and Peace Advocacy Ministries, which in 2015 included funding for Covenant 5, and the following ministries under its umbrella: Church of the Incarnation Criminal Justice Advocacy; Disability Awareness (including Alliance to Abolish Bullying); Economic Justice Commission; St. Katherine’s Adult Day Care Center ; St. Peter’s Manna Works; St. Stephen’s, Troy Grace in Action; Transgender Bisexual Lesbian and Gay Concerns Committee; and Word and World in the amount of $19,000 from the operating budget of the Diocese or alternatively from the Extended Ministry Fund. Result: Moved, with the passage of 2016 budget. Resolution 2: Diocesan Funding for the Social Service Ministries of the Diocese of Michigan Originator: The Rev. Ellis Clifton Jr. Diocesan Council is directed to allocate in its budget funding for the Social Service Support Ministries at the level of $52,000. Funding for these ministries come from the investment income from the Opportunity Resource Fund and if needed, from the operating budget of the Diocese of Michigan. Result: Moved, with the passage of 2016 budget. Resolution 3: Reauthorizing the ability to solicit financial support for the Justice and Peace Advocacy and Social Service Support Ministries of the Diocese of Michigan Originator: The Rev. Ellis Clifton Jr. This authorizes the Justice and

Peace Advocacy Ministries and Social Service Support Ministries to solicit funds congregations and individual members of congregations in support of the following ministries: Social Service Support Ministries: Bound Together, Pontiac; Crossroads of Michigan; Grace Mt. Clemens Community Supper; Mariner’s Inn, Detroit; Messiah, Detroit Aim High Youth Ministry; Oasis/LGBT ; St. Andrew’s, Ann Arbor Breakfast; St. Katherine’s, Williamston Forster Woods; St. Michael’s, Lincoln Park Tuesday Club; St. Paul’s, Lansing Needs Closet; St. Peter’s, Hillsdale Free Clinic; All Saints, Brooklyn Community Dinner; All Saints, East Lansing Teen After School Center; St. Andrew’s, Livonia Pantry; St. Clement’s, Inkster Track and Field Camp; St. Luke’s, Shelby Twp. Pantry; St. John’s, Royal Oak Stephen Ministry. Justice and Peace Advocacy Ministries: Covenant 5; Disability Awareness and Abolish Bullying Ministry; Economic Justice Commission; Church of the Incarnation Criminal Justice Advocacy; St. Katherine’s Forster Woods Adult Day Care Advocacy; St. Peter’s Manna Works; St. Stephen’s Grace In Action; TBLG Concerns; Word and World. This allows the Justice and Peace Advocacy Ministries and the Social Service Support Ministries to engage in solicitation for support at several levels should the adopted budget support prove insufficient for the respective ministries to operate, due to difficult diocesan budget cuts or other unforeseen occurrences. Result: Motion carries. Resolution 4: End Mass Incarceration. Originators: Church of the Incarnation, Pittsfield Township; St. Clement’s, Inkster; Covenant 5.

This seeks endorsement, support, and advocacy for goals and objectives of the Michigan Collaborative to End Mass Incarceration, to be effective by year 2020, seeking a 50 percent decrease in prison and jail admissions through the use of diversionary programs. It also seeks a majority of the prison population being engaged in productive activities at least 30 hours per week, plus various sentencing and parole reforms. It also seeks expanded use of restorative justice and other alternative and diversionary programs, increased mental-health and substance-abuse services, reform of the indigent defense system, a greater focus on addressing social problems that are at the root of many crimes, reform of sentencing guidelines, elimination of racial profiling, raciallytargeted enforcement and other police practices that cause racial and economic disproportionality in prison populations. The Rev. Joe Summers, Church of the Incarnation, Pittsfield Twp.: “Mass incarceration’s been one of the great evils of our time. It’s been compared to the Jim Crow era, in terms of its effects on our population. From 1920 to 1972, we had the same rate of incarceration in this country.” However, as Summers pointed out, the rate grew enormously. In the State of Michigan lock-ups, the population rose from 10,000 to 53,000. “We now house more mentally-ill people in our prisons than used to be in our state hospital system.” Delegate T.J. Spytma, Church of the Incarnation: “On any given day in the United States, one in 10 black men in their 30s are in jail. In fact, one out of three black men of all ages can expect to serve time at some point in their life. That figure is one in six for Latino men and one in 17 for White men.” Result: Adopted.

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Resolution 5: Religious Freedom Restoration Act Originator: Covenant 5 This encourages opposition to any Religious Freedom Restoration Act in the State of Michigan or its municipalities. It notes that Covenant 5 will provide samples for methods of communication (such as letters and email) to be used in contacting legislators. This is to prevent legislation target to diminish the human rights and dignity of all people, including members of the LGBT community. Summers explained this was originally enacted nationally to protect the rights of religious minorities, specifically Native Americans and Muslims. “It’s now becoming the justification for allowing the discrimination of LGBTQ people, in the name of religious freedom.” Result: Adopted. Resolution 6: “Time to Care” Originator: Covenant 5 This seeks support of House Bill 4167 (“Time to Care”), asking people to communicate support through appropriate communication to provide a means for more than half of all Michigan workers the ability to take a paid sick day when they are ill or must provide for the care of loved ones who are currently not provided an opportunity for sick pay. Result: Adopted. Resolution 7: Black Lives Matter. Originator: Ian Ednie. This is to communicate a message to the Presiding Bishop and the President of the House of Deputies to support points relating to the fair treatments of all citizens, including AfricanAmericans, by the police and the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

DIOCESAN CONVENTION

Slate of candidates and election results Election Results: Candidates for Office Cathedral Chapter (1 clergy, 1 lay to be elected) Lay: Mr. Chip Dischinger – Christ Church, Detroit Clergy: 103 The Very Rev. Paul LeClair – St. Patrick’s, Madison Heights 123 The Rev. Maryjane Peck – Christ Church, Dearborn Commission on Ministry (1 clergy, 1 lay to be elected) Lay: Clergy: 145 The Rev. David Glaser – St. Barnabas, Chelsea 78 The Rev. Drew Van Culin – Christ Church, Grosse Pointe * (* - Later became a bishop’s appointment) Disciplinary Board (1 clergy, 1 lay to be elected)Lay: Ms. Brenda Philpot – Grace Church, Detroit Clergy: The Rev. Deacon Cindy Corner – St. Michael & All Angels, Cambridge Junction Standing Committee (1 clergy, 1 lay to be elected) Lay: 97 Mr. Andy Anyanonu – The Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Detroit 126 Mr. Geoffrey Smereck – St. John’s, Westland Clergy: 125 The Rev. Paula Miller – St. Michael’s & All Angels, Lincoln Park 99 The Rev. Terri Pilarski – Christ Church, Dearborn Trustees (1 clergy, 4 lay to be elected) Lay: Mr. Robert Beebe – Christ Church Cranbrook, Bloomfield Hills Ms. Julia Belian – St. Luke’s, Ferndale Mr. George Port – Christ Church, Grosse Pointe Clergy: 155 The Rev. Deacon Andrea Morrow – Holy Cross, Novi 70 The Rev. William Roberts – St. Anne’s, Walled Lake

criminal justice system. Said Ian Ednie: “I think it is incredibly important for us, as spiritual people, to take a stand on these sorts of issues. I think the violence happening to our brothers and sisters of color points to a need for a rebirth of the human spirit. And the best way for that to happen is by active involveEpiscopal Diocese of Michigan

ment with the church.” The Rev. Bill Wylie-Kellerman from St. Peter’s Episcopal, Detroit (a non-voting convention attendee): “What strikes me about the Black Lives Matter movement is a new civil rights movement among young people, and it’s really happening in the streets and at many levels.”

Result: Adopted. Note: The 182nd Diocesan Convention will take place Oct. 21-22, 2016 in Lansing at the Radisson Hotel, Lansing Center.

The Record Fall 2015

REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT

‘I was a stranger and you welcomed me’

Understanding the many different ways we can assist refugees By the Rev. Terri Pilarski Can you help? This was the somewhat desperate question asked of me by the refugee resettlement agency. A family of six was scheduled to arrive within 24 hours and the house they were going to live in had not received clearance by the city inspectors. The family, a mother with four kids and a grandmother, were refugees from Rwanda who had fled to Cameroon. After years in a refugee camp they had been transported to the Sudan and were in route from the Sudan to Paris and then to Chicago, they’d be here the next day, after a grueling 36 hours of travel. The church and I, having participated in refugee resettlement for a couple of years, decided that we could house this family for a few days. It was summer, no Sunday School and the building was mostly unused during the day. We set up six beds in one long room. Next door was a living room-like space with a television. Downstairs was a fully-stocked kitchen and bathrooms with showers. In short order, we had everything ready, including food in the refrigerator. The family arrived, along with staff from the refugee agency, about 4 p.m. on a warm sunny afternoon. After the trauma and the challenges of travel, the family was nearly catatonic. Over the next week the church was filled with the sounds of a family coming back to life – kids playing outside in the playground, food being prepared in the kitchen, and faces that began to smile with eyes that shone from rest and hope. By the end of the week the agency had the house ready

The Rev. Terri Pilarski, addressing the 181st Diocesan Convention on the subject of refugee resettlement.

and the family moved on, but the members of that church, who had opened their doors, were forever changed. Come, you that are blessed by God, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me… (Matthew 25:34-35). Who is the stranger? Did you know that there are about 60 million forcibly displaced people in the world today, and the number is growing daily. Forcibly displaced people fall into several categories. Internally Displaced Persons: About 40 million IDPs have been forcibly uprooted and displaced within their own country due to violence and conflict. They remain in their country but not in their homes. They are not protected by the government and

have no access to resources. Asylum Seekers: In 2014, 1.66 million people submitted applications for asylum. A potentially even larger number of people are waiting to make it through the legal system to apply. Asylum seekers are at a distinct disadvantage in that they have zero resources available to them. A number of agencies focus solely on helping asylum seekers, such as Freedom House in Detroit. The criteria that grants one asylum are: cannot return to home country because of a real risk of being killed due to one’s race, religion, ethnicity, politics or because one is a member of a particular group such as the LGBTQ community. Refugee: A refugee is someone forced out their home and country because of a real risk of death and violence. There are about 20 million refugees in camps around the world today. Most refugees today are fleeing Syria, followed by those fleeing Afghanistan as

The Record Fall 2015

well as Africa, South and Central America, and other countries experiencing conflict. Refugee resettlement is a long, arduous process. A number of international agencies, often affiliated with the United Nations, work with the governments that have created refugee camps with the intent of resettling as many people as possible. Each person considered for resettlement undergoes intense back ground checks, health and psychological evaluations. Refugee status can take years to acquire and even longer to receive the needed approval to be resettled in another country. Migrants – a term used frequently, all individuals who cross a border into another county is a migrant. However migrant differs from IDPs, asylum seekers and refugees in that a migrant can still seek the protection of its home government. In Southeast Michigan, the largest resettlement agency is Lutheran Social Services of Michigan (LSSM). It has partner affiliates with other agencies, such as Episcopal Migration Ministries. It is anticipated we will receive nearly 1,000 refugees, beginning in about 18 months, or as soon as President Obama gives the clearance for resettlement to begin. Refugees are resettled first in countries and cities where they already have family members. If there are no family members with whom to be reunited, refugees are resettled in regions where there are other people with whom they can form community. Every effort is made to ensure that refugees are resettled into community, for it is with community that people are able to Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT

Scenes from the convention

Included here are highlights from Friday’s Convention Eucharist (featuring the Rev. Dr. Jay Emerson Johnson), Saturday’s campus ministry presentation and Saturday table discussion. The convention was held Oct. 23-24 at the Suburban Collection Diamond Center, Novi.

rebuild their lives and move from despair to hope. How can you help? As refugees begin to arrive in Southeast Michigan I will receive requests from LSSM for assistance. This will be a request for immediate action: A team of youth or adults to greet a refugee family at the airport, a team of people who can set up a house or apartment (including making beds and organizing a kitchen), a team of people who can acquire new or gently-used clothing or household items, a team of people who will go to the grocery store a stock the kitchen with culturally appropriate food for the family. Some churches may choose to take on a larger, more expensive portion of resettlement, such as sponsoring a family by paying for the expenses to migrate including Visas, airfare, the items in Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

their new home, and so forth. We are informed and formed not only from Jesus’ words in the Gospel, to help the stranger, but also from Deuteronomy we are reminded that we are to help the stranger for we too were once strangers in a strange land. If we reach into the resources of our corporate soul, there resonates a grief from a common loss of home, may this grief inform our compassion and inspire us to heal the broken and the wounded with love. May we do this with God’s help. The Rev. Terri Pilarski is rector of Christ Church, Dearborn. This is from her address to Diocesan Convention on Oct. 24. If you would like to participate, please email her at terri@christchurchdearborn.org.

The Record Fall 2015

GUN VIOLENCE

Fox 2 reporter Charlie LeDuff joined other leaders at Church of the Messiah, Detroit to discuss the effects of gun violence on the community.

The Record Fall 2015

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

GUN VIOLENCE

By Rick Schulte The victims of gun violence are many. As shown in a display at Church of the Messiah, located on Detroit’s lower east side, images of people killed by guns filled the front of the church as a tapestry of remembrance. Nikia Jernigan’s image was not with the others. She’s a survivor. But she’s unable to walk. And the Rev. Barry Randolph spoke of how violence of one action spreads out and affects the community in many ways. “In 2009, Nikia was in the wrong place at the wrong time,” he said. “There was a bullet meant for somebody else. But that bullet struck Nikia. And Nikia’s life changed. And it didn’t just affect her. It affected her family.” Jernigan, now in a wheelchair, was a poignant reminder of the effect of gun violence on the community at Church of the Messiah’s eighth-annual Fallen Angels remembrance. A large contingent of residents, community leaders and clergy turned out to show their desire in ending gun violence and making the city safer. “Her grandmother is her caregiver. And her grandmother does so many incredible things to make sure Nikia is okay. This has changed this family’s life forever. This family is dealing with issue they never thought they would have to deal with. So many medical bills, so many issues. But Nikia keeps her hopes up and keep her spirits up.” Pointing to the images of people whose lives were cut Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

Remembering all Fallen Angels

Said the Rev. Barry Randolph: “Sixty percent of our congregation is black males under the age of 30.”

short by gun violence, Wayne County Commisioner Warren Evans attempted to describe the magnitude of the issue. “If look behind us at these fallen angels, think for one minute, for the last 10 years, this is a small sample of those people that were killed in the city,” Evans said. “And, in this day and age and in our world, this is totally unacceptable. We’re here to honor these folks, and the best way to honor these folks is to work with the county and the city to stop the violence that is still plaguing us.” Preventing violence, said Evans – who was also the former Wayne County Sheriff – goes beyond weapons. It begins with prevention and recognition of potential problems. “We have to be doing everything we possibly can to cut down on the violence,” Evans said. “I think the biggest problem we have to deal with is the school system…Things like knowing

what kid is in school and what kid isn’t.” Evans explained there are programs in place that reach out to at-risk youths and families. However, if schools – which are able to see these young people on a daily basis and can act as a first line of defense – are stretched thin and unable to provide help, an opportunity is lost. “We gotta get better at a lot of things, but we can really do it,” Evans said. Many were on hand to meet Charlie LeDuff, a Pulitzer Prizewinning journalist currently know for his work on Fox 2 Detroit and with the Fox News series, ‘The Americans.’ He is a native Detroiter whose own life was touched by the violence on the streets of Detroit. “We’re a family. We occupy Earth together. As one goes, we all go. If one hurts, we all hurt. One falls, and we’re all diminished,” LeDuff said. He talked about how a sister of his was

The Record Fall 2015

working as a prostitute when she died. That was part of a life experience that allows him to relate so well to the work going on at Messiah. “Young men, I don’t have any advice,” he said. “I’ll just tell you: Single mom. I’m the only one of five who graduated from high school. Everybody’s running wild. My stepbrother shot himself to death with a needle. I understand all of this. But no matter what, it’s in you…What you have, what nobody else has individually, is in there. That’s what God gave you. Nobody’s like you. But you know that. You just have to believe.” There’s a belief system going on at Messiah, which is reaching young men who are statistically at risk. “Sixty percent of our congregation is black males under the age of 30,” Randolph said. “We have a wonderful marching band, called Fire. Fire had 84 members, but it’s down to 20-something, because 59 members of the band got scholarships to go to college.” Although fatal shootings are up 1 percent in Detroit over last year, non-fatal shootings have moved a tick downward in the same time. That’s significant, says Detroit Assistant Police Chief Steve Dolunt. But it’s not nearly enough. “When you compare it to the percentages in other major cities across the country, more of them are seeing double-digit increases in non-fatal shootings and homicides,” he said. And that means the work at Messiah must continue.

DIOCESAN NEWS

Celebration of 60 years This year, St. Barnabas, Chelsea capped its 60-year anniversary with a special celebration of the Eucharist. The church originally gathered at a little red schoolhouse on the grounds of the Chelsea Fair before occupying the current location in 1956. Photos: Catherine Ottarson

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Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

DIOCESAN NEWS

Tradition, infusion of youth boost Christ Church, Pleasant Lake

Located in a rural area and just south of the town’s only traffic light, it would be easy to assume Christ Church, Pleasant Lake is simply a sleepy, country church. Not true at all. Bolstered by a growing presence of young people, the Jackson County congregation is doing quite well for itself. The Revs. Ross and Susan Vandercook serve as rectors of Christ Church. And the church has a great future thanks, in part, to a youth group that didn’t even exist a year ago. “I think Ross Vandercook is fabulous with kids,” said Terry Sommer, a longtime church member. “He’s a retired principal, and he just has this thing with kids, this persona about him and kids love him.” Although the building itself is a century old, the church’s existence in the community north of Jackson began in 1879. It took three years to complete construction of the original building. Christ Church was admitted to the Diocese of Michigan in 1888. Later, the church caught fire in 1914 – neighbors helped moved various articles from the church as best they could – and the building was destroyed. However, a new church was constructed on the existing foundation a year later. These days, the church is quite vibrant. Aside from the growing youth presence in the community, Christ Church continues to help those in need with its Operation Blessing food outreach. This serves around 20 local families, offering food and various items once a month. That mix of tradition and oldtime memories and blending nicely with an infusion of youth. “My grandfather helped plow Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

this ground,” Sommer said. “It’s our family church,” Joanne Current said. “You look at the stained glass windows and most of them are our relatives. In a community like this, you just are so indoctrinated in it, it’s a part of you. “You grow up in a community like this, and you go to the youth group with kids you know. It’s a real community. We used to have these community dinners here. Everyone pitched in and helped out and was Confirmed here. It’s a way of life in this area.”

The Vandercooks both retired in 2006; Susan was a Jackson County probate judge, Ross was an elementary school principal in Okemos. However, instead of choosing the traditional retiree path, they opted to get involved with the Episcopal Church’s Total Ministry model. And that meant years of study and preparation before they became co-rectors of Christ Church in 2011. With the Vandercooks, traditional ties and a good future (which includes the work of youth coordinator Carol Stokes),

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Christ Church is experiencing true growing. Joyce Burnett, who was married at Christ Church and returned to the church after moving to Florida, has noticed it, too. “My husband and I were married here 56 years ago,” she said. “It’s a pretty amazing church.”

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Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

BOOK REVIEW

A reminder of constant safety, comfort in ‘Somewhere Safe With Somebody Good’ In her latest book set in Mitford, Jan Karon allows her faithful readers to see Fr.Tim Kavanagh at a low point in his human journey. His faith hasn’t failed him, but his optimism in speedy help as an answer to prayer has withered to almost nothing. Early in the book, Fr.Tim follows his most depressing chain of thought to its destination. He realizes, “Every imaginable love and consolation had been and was currently being delivered to him, and yet he had no wit or gumption to receive it.” He feels lower than a worm as he sends a ”… silent petition for grace.” His wife, Cynthia, isn’t fooled at all by his physical symptoms. In fact, she asks him what really is the matter. His answer is totally honest and very sad. “I’ve lost something like passion…” he tells her, and adds the most embarrassing part, “I feel useless.” Cynthia, very cool for a loving wife, replies, “You want God’s job.” Tim faces huge challenges and petty ones as well, and sometimes it’s difficult to tell which is the largest. He can’t find a good haircut in his town, and he looks

badly groomed withthe pressure to feel out it. Dooley’s missuseful becomes less ing brother Sammy severe. Sammy needs has been found, but 17 physically challenging work, and Hope year old Sammy is not and her husband are ready to accept love grateful for the bookor to become well behaved. He takes what store money. Tim is Dawn he wants, swears and modestly proud of his McDuffie spits when he feels like plans for increasing it, and actively hates sales at the store. anyone who dares to At the midpoint of show him kindness. Compassion, the novel, work takes a form Fr. mercy, grace – all of it seems like Tim didn’t expect to see. In an a trick. With great trepidation, emergency, he’s asked to deliver Fr. Tim decides to renew an over- sad and shocking news from the grown garden with Sammy, and pulpit of Lord’s Chapel. He’s overto simply love him as they work come by the message he needs to convey, and ends of openly weeptogether. Fr. Tim’s approach has always ing in front of the whole congrebeen rich in love and prayer, but gation. He feels humiliated and physical work becomes his new relieved at the same time. Mitmethod. While Hope Murphy ford may be a small and charmremains on bed rest for placenta ing town, but it’s as full of human previa, Tim takes over managing grief and sin as any other place. her bookstore two days a week. I wasn’t surprised when the most His prayers are consistent as ever, tormented character in the book but he also has the satisfaction of quotes “The Dark Night of the knowing a reliable income from Soul” by St. John of the Cross. book sales will help reassure More than one person in Mitford Hope and her husband, Scott. feels that dark night and makes a Between gardening with Sammy decision. The title of the book is and selling books twice a week, a quote from Cynthia about why

she is happy in her marriage with Tim Kavanagh. She needs to feel safe, and she needs to know she’s married a good man. But beyond Cynthia’s personal letter to her husband, I think the author wants her readers to know we are always safe and always close to someone who is not only “good,” but is the source of all goodness. Freelance reviewer Dawn McDuffie is a member of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Detroit.

Providing much relief A medical relief drive at St. George’s, Milford produced a great response from its local community. Over the course of the threemonth drive, approximately 60 donors provided two truckloads of items to World Medical Relief, including about 25 wheelchairs, 75 pairs of crutches, 50 walkers, four C-PAP breathing machines, plus many other items.

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

The Record Fall 2015

Episcopal Diocese of Michigan

THE FINAL WORD

St. Clement’s and its pastor maintain watchful eye for Inkster community The Very Rev. Ellis Clifton was a whirl of constant motion, quickly accepting hugs, handshakes and greetings while nervously keeping an eye on the time as his church’s hall continued to fill with people. “If you know me, you know I like to keep things running on schedule”, said Clifton, the rector of St. Clement’s, Inkster. But he sadly understood the reason why the morning’s special guest, new Inkster Police Chief William Riley, was running a few minutes behind. “There was a shooting last night, just down the street from here,” Clifton said. “So obviously, he has his hands full.” Such is the role of ministry in Inkster, located west of Detroit and a few miles north of Detroit Metropolitan Airport. The city has received its share of notoriety recently, but for all the wrong reasons. In January, an AfricanAmerican motorist was beaten by a white Inkster police officer during a traffic stop. A $1.38 million settlement was reached in late May. This amount is significant in a town like Inkster, where the median home value sits at $55,400 and homeowners

will have to pay an admunity members who invested their time ditional $178.67 annually in property taxes and money into a town – notable, considering they aren’t about to let every dollar applied to slip away and leaders of the cash-strapped city’s various organizations services is crucial – to came together for two reasons. cover the settlement. First, a Boy Scout In recent months, Rick a former police chief initiative to get a footSchulte criticized the conduct hold in the local town of many of the city’s ofdrew a great deal of support. And second, ficers. In April, another chief resigned, citing philosophi- the introduction of the city’s new police chief was a chance for evcal differences with city officials. As you can see, Clifton works eryone to meet Riley and to also in a different world than many of say, “We welcome you. And we’ll his Episcopal colleagues. Inkster’s be watching you.” finances were shaky enough for “Inkster has suffered some an emergency manager to be put things it should not have suffered. in place by the State of Michigan. That’s the truth. And some things Inkster’s high school has been that are not acceptable,” the new closed for several years. And chief said. Acknowledging there crime is still a daily concern, of are fundamental problems that course. need to be fixed, Riley said his job It sounds bleak. Hopeless. is not to spend as much time look And yet, you wouldn’t know at the mistakes of the past, but that from the way folks contin- to look for improving the future. ued to fill St. Clement’s on a hot, “Look at the young people here September morning for what was today, that’s our future. A future billed as a School Safety Break- governor. Future mayor. Future fast. On one of the final days be- president. Future secretary of fore nearby public schools were state.” scheduled to open, young people According to current statisand their parents, elderly com- tics from the Federal Bureau of

Prisons, 37 percent of all inmates of federal correctional institutions are black. Another study from Pew Research Center found black men 10 times more likely to be incarcerated than white men. A University of Chicago study noted incarceration rates among less educated black men to be an alarmingly-high 26 percent (a drop from 2000, but still higher than the 19 percent employment rate noted in 2010). More than 72 percent of Inkster’s population is black. The challenge – being met head-on by Clifton, St. Clement’s and many in the Inkster community – is to keep a strong base of safety, educational opportunity and church involvement for its young people. “The people in this community are amazing,” Clifton said. “We know what we have to do. And people are willing to show their support and reach the young people when it’s so important to reach them.” Rick Schulte is director of communications for the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan and editor of The Record. He can be reached at rschulte@edomi.org.

Reason to celebrate It was a truly exciting night at St. Paul’s, Lansing in September. Not only did the church enjoy its Celebration of Ministry and Welcoming of a New Rector with the Rev. Karen Lewis, but Linda Craven was Baptized, too.

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