From the Rector

Before that, though, I want to say a couple of things in response to intelligent questions as a little preface to "The List."

First, a deacon is not a "little priest." Priests are ordained deacons along the way to priesthood, but a "vocational deacon" such as Cece will express more fully and accurately the deacon's unique ministry. In general, the locus of diaconal ministry is in "the world," while that of the priest is in "the church." The deacon is the "bridge" person. Deacons, therefore, do not necessarily specialize in pastoral care in a parish as is often supposed, although a deacon may find herself in pastoral situations as often as any clergy member of our faith community; i.e., it is a natural part of our life together.

Cece's primary ministry is with the (largely unchurched) clients of Hospice of Kitsap County. She is using her considerable pastoral gifts in this specialized ministry, but is doing it as an icon of the church, or the sacred, in secular settings. She is also involved in prison ministry, another good example of diaconal ministry, i.e., in "the world."

I'm mentioning the pastoral piece because some have assumed that she will "replace" me as a pastoral caregiver, or in some other area in which I am active. Cece will bring something new to our ministry and life together; she will not be "redundant." St. Paul's, as a presence in the community, will be enhanced by what she brings to it and who she is, and I fully anticipate that her liturgical presence will draw more people into our household. The icon of a deacon in the liturgy (who is also a woman) will be a tremendous blessing to us all.

Now, a summary of her activities at St. Paul's...

• In the liturgy (on fourth Sundays at eight o'clock and every Sunday at 10:15, plus all principal feasts and fasts) the deacon sits next to the celebrant (gospel side), and also stands behind the altar (same place) with the chalice bearers and celebrant. Therefore all orders of ministry are represented (except of course bishops!).
• Deacons carry the Lectionary (or book of Gospels, if there is one) in processions.
• Deacons may read the Gospel at Eucharists; Cece and I will alternate from Sunday to Sunday.
• Deacons lead the Confession (cf. rubrics on p. 360 of the BCP). Lay people will continue to lead the Prayers of the People.
• Deacons prepare the Table (and clear it after Communion).
• Deacons may administer the bread; there will be two patens at liturgies when she is present.
• Deacons give the dismissal.
• Cece will preach once a quarter.
• She'll chant the Exsultet at the Great Vigil of Easter.

• She will represent St. Paul's at Bremerton Ministerial Association meetings.
• Cece will attend staff meetings, Pastoral Care Team meetings, Liturgy & Arts meetings, and Vestry.
• She'll have a Good Word column.
• She and I will meet weekly.
• When she needs space for a private consultation, she will be scheduled time in the Library (or other available room).

I've been thinking and praying about the assessment issue, a lot. One thing that diocesan Treasurer Denny Bacon said to our vestry recently really made me think. He said that St. Paul's had defaulted on the assessment in whole or in part for so many years that the practice had "become institutionalized." I think he is on to something. We have all observed over recent years how our deficit is always about equal to the assessment. No matter what our income is. This has become an ethical problem for me. I think we need to commit the parish to phasing in the assessment over a period of months. I have come to believe that, at this point, it is the worse for us spiritually if we don't begin to walk in that direction and exhibit some faith. We are leaders in the diocesan community in so many other ways, and receive from others in the diocese in so many ways, that we must take our place here, too. Especially as the diocese is now in such need financially.

By not meeting our assessment we live in violation of the canons and our own by-laws. It is also not fair that we don't pay anything, while everyone else does (unless they are "angry," which is symptomatic of a spiritually unhealthy church, in my opinion). At least half of the hundred or so congregations of Olympia are smaller than St. Paul's. By and large they pay their assessments and in some cases do not fund a full time seminary trained professional because of this prior commitment. I have been discussing a plan with the vestry where we will begin to pay some percentage of the assessment now and increase that percentage gradually so that we will grow into the full commitment.

I want to have a "family meeting" between the two services on Sunday, August 25th at 9:15-10:00 to bring everybody on board and to invite questions and suggestions. I am aware of our financial situation, and that we will deplete the Schwindt Fund in a year or two if nothing changes (up or down). But I now feel it is riskier for us to continue as we have.

Peace,
Randy

The Deacon's Corner: the First Deacons

What did the ministry of the church in the first century look like?

First we must take a look at the ministry of Jesus before understanding what the ministry of the early church looked like. Jesus possessed the power and the authority of God. He cast out demons, healed all kinds of diseases, forgave people of their sins, brought the dead back to life and through his death on the cross, gave eternal life to humanity.

Jesus in turn sent the disciples forth with his own power and authority, just as the Father sent him. The ministry of the church in the New Testament period was done by all the people of God. Each member performed a specific function in and for the benefit of the whole. There were no leaders (clergy); all were members of the laity. With the exception of the apostles, no ministry was forbidden to any member of the community.

The work that Jesus sent his disciples out to do in the world is called in its Greek form 'diakonos'. The word diakonos literally means "waiter;" not waiter in the menial sense, but waiter in the sense of humbly serving others.

Jesus said, "Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to be slave of all." 'Diakonos' as a noun appears thirty times in the New Testament and includes in its meaning the most menial of service to the highest glory of God.

Just as Jesus sent his disciples out to be servants to all, every member of the church today receives the gift of grace and is called to service. There are a variety of gifts that the Holy Spirit gives to us at baptism. Just as each part of our own bodies has a specific function, so also does each member of the Church with the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given them.

The modern translation of 'diakonia' is 'deacon'. The earliest deacons in the church were leaders commissioned for specialized service by prayer and the laying on of hands. Today deacons are ordained for this specialized ministry by the laying on of hands by a bishop.

Of what "stuff" are deacons made?

In verses 8-10 of 1 Timothy 3 further requirements of the deacon are listed. "Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons." All of these requirements hold true in the church today. Bishops, Priests, Deacons: AD 100-600

Before AD 100 the leaders of the church were not elected and then commissioned by the laying on of hands. They were given special gifts, graces and talents of divine origin. They assumed their positions of leadership solely by the commissioning of the Holy Spirit. After AD 100 leadership roles in the church changed from those of the apostle, apostolic delegate, prophet and teacher to what is known today as bishop, presbyter (priest) and deacon.

Circa AD 150 in the Didache the functions of bishops and deacons were described. The bishops' duties included presiding over the Eucharist, preaching and teaching. The deacon had liturgical functions at the Eucharist in addition to such duties as taking care of the poor, especially of widows and orphans.

Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, described the bishop as the leading figure in the church. The bishop, to him, took the role of what we know today as pastors who preside over local congregations. He compared the bishop to God the Father. Presbyters (modern day priests) corresponded to he described as the college of the apostles. Deacons served as icons of Jesus Christ. The deacon, as described by Ignatius, would today be a servant of a parish who would at times assist the head of the parish. Ignatius held deacons in high regard. He called them "my special favorites." In his time the three orders (bishop, presbyter, and deacon) had no special ministerial order according to status or rank, but by that of particular function. The ordering of deacon as third does not make the office of deacon inferior to that of the other two. All three were to be given respect.

By the end of this period we see bishops, presbyters and deacons handling not only the business affairs of the church, but also assuming liturgical and pastoral duties. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the church was changing. The ministry of the church was still that of all the people, but the three orders were given special functions within this ministry, very similar to that of today's church.

Cece Morris

Thank you!

Since I don't know the names of those who contributed towards the purchase of my ordination gift (an exquisite green stole), I cannot thank each one of you individually. I appreciate your generosity and loving support. Come and take a closer look at the stole some Sunday when I am wearing it. I think you'll agree that it is exquisite!

With love and gratitude,
Deacon Cece

Liturgy and Arts

The committee discussed several designs for a graphic representation of the Vision of St. Paul's that will replace the wooden crucifix in the narthex, above the entrance to the nave. Several more designs will be considered and recommended to the Vestry who will make the final selection.

With the arrival of a deacon in our midst, Cece Morris, there was discussion of how she would begin her ministry on June 30, and what changes that would bring to the liturgy (see Rector's column for details, above). Cece will read the gospel, set the table for communion and distribute the consecrated bread at the service. She will also do the dismissal. Chalice bearers will retain their current responsibilities, and lead the Prayers of the People from the middle of the nave.

The committee discussed the more frequent use of Morning Prayer as an order of service. As the Episcopal Church is centered in the Holy Eucharist, it was agreed that it was not appropriate to use Morning Prayer frequently. It may become the service on the fifth Sunday of the month. Stay tuned.

The use of lay people as preachers was brought up and the rector shared his opinion that it is something to be encouraged, balanced with expectations that the priest will be preaching on any given Sunday.

From the musicians' corner, Cindy Holland reported that there would be choral and instrumental music throughout the summer. She has moved rehearsals to Tuesdays and will be working with three groups each week: St. Paul's instrumentalists, singers, and a small string ensemble.


The question was raised about the length of the Peace. For example, does it appear intimidating to newcomers who don't know a lot of people to greet and share with? The rector reaffirmed that there will continue to be plenty of time for people to move around the Nave and that it should be regarded as an opportunity to seek out people who are not as familiar to them, and to be proactive about welcoming them.

An memorial service will be held on the first anniversary of September 11, 2001, using Holden Evening Prayer and appropriate readings. A time for sharing and the lighting of candles will be included. The intention is to invite people throughout the neighborhood as well.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that the Parish Picnic will be September 8, with the 10:15 Eucharist celebrated at Illahee State Park.

Questions? Comments? Contact Randy or Sandy Stutey .

Russian Orthodox Vocal Quartet

Cindy Holland
holland@tscnet.com
St. Paul's Music Director

Altar Flower Offerings

Flower Guild

The desire to arrange flowers is all you need as a prerequisite to joining. Please contact Randy or a member of the Altar Guild if you are interested.

Church Quiz - August

a. The staff carried by a Bishop.
b. The headdress worn by a Bishop.
c. A mace used in the Anglican Church.

a. The "Roman collars" worn by the clergy.
b. The two ribbons at the back of a mitre.
c. The black or purple front cloth or vest worn by the Priests and Bishops.

a. Anointing with consecrated oil.
b. The blessing at the end of the Eucharist.
c. Consecrations using Holy Water.

a. Assistant to Diocesan Bishop with right of succession.
b. Assistant to Diocesan Bishop with no right of succession.
c. The head of the Anglican Church.

a. A stand for a coffin in the church.
b. The ceremonial fire used to light the Paschal candle.
c. A malt liquor made by Anglican monks.

Upcoming Social Events

Directions to the Fairholm Campground on Lake Crescent: From Port Angeles follow Highway 101 westward 27 miles to North Shore Road. (Just after the Fairholm General Store and Café.) Turn right and drive to the campground access road.

Trails near Fairholm: If you just want go for a day hike, the trailheads listed below are located near the campground.

Marymere Falls is a spectacular 90' waterfall just one mile from Lake Crescent. The trail leads through old growth forest with flowering plants and mushrooms in season. (Wheelchair: first 3/4 mile to Barnes Creek overlook only. Flat, loose graveled surface.) Ranger-guided hike leaves at 2:00 p.m. daily from the Storm King Ranger Station. We will be joining the 2:00 p.m. ranger guided hike on Saturday, the 17th!!!

Moments in Time Nature Trail is an approximately 1/2-mile loop and offers nice views of the lake and winds through old-growth forest and former homestead sites. It is located between Olympic Park Institute and Lake Crescent Lodge. A 1/3-mile trail extends from Storm King Ranger Station parking lot. (Accessible with assistance.) Mount Storm King Trail climbs steeply for 1.7 miles from the Marymere Falls trail to a point on the ridge. Travel beyond that point to the top is over difficult terrain and the trail is not maintained. Good views of Lake Crescent. Pyramid Peak Trail begins on the north shore of the lake and climbs 2600' in 3.5 miles. At the summit is a World War II aircraft spotter station. Good views of Lake Crescent and the Strait of Juan de Fuca en route. Spruce Railroad Trail connects the North Shore and Lyre River trailheads. Much of this relatively flat 4 miles (each way) trail runs on or adjacent to the World War I Spruce Railway bed and offers excellent Lake Crescent views. It is a designated bike trail. Watch for ticks and poison oak.

Helpful Link

Photo Directory

Sign-up sheets will be available in the Narthex. Contact Tom Remick if you have questions or if you are interested in volunteering to help with this important project.

Please contact the church office for any changes in you address, phone number, or e-mail data so we can have the most accurate information in the directory.

Planning sessions are being held every Monday at 6:30 p.m. in the church library. Please see Emily Battin or Rusty Holland if interested in helping or for more information.

Church Picnic

Inquirers' Classes starting in September

September 11, 2001 Remembered

I am looking for written reflections on how the events of September 11, 2001 changed your life for the September issue of The Good Word. Did what happened a year ago bring you closer to God, drive you farther away, help you set new goals or priorities in life, challenge your world view, etc.?

Share a few observations with each other about how things have changed for you and/or your family since that tragic day. E-mail your thoughts to me at rhorn@tscnet.com and copy to St. Paul's Church (stpaul@telebyte.net). Reflections may be submitted anonymously. The deadline is August 15.

Ann Horn

Communications Committee

"Communication and communion are two fundamentally different modes of knowing. Communication is logical, quantitative and practical in its application. It is a linear form of human intercourse in which each piece of information is given one at a time and leads up to some particular conclusion. We could not live without this one-dimensional mode of knowing. But, of itself, it lacks power to convey the deepest hopes and yearnings of human existence.

"A wife tells her husband 'I love you' not to communicate a previously unknown, logical, verifiable piece of information, but rather to articulate what it is that binds her to her spouse. The repetition of such words is not redundant. Rather, like each new rising of the sun, each new 'I love you' offers new, yet to be explored possibilities. Each 'I love you' carries within it the promise of renewed and deepened levels of intimacy and union. The 'I love you' finds its power in its ability to express the wife's communion with her husband. The words themselves evoke occasions of this communion, which is a mode of knowing not wholly available to what can be communicated in quantitative, verifiable terms.

"Words are to communion what the sky is to the stars. The failure to communicate is frustration. The failure to commune is despair. Of communion Merton says, 'It is something that the deepest ground of our being cries out for, and it is something for which a lifetime of striving would not be enough.'"

(James Finley, Merton's Palace of Nowhere)

Our first quarterly meeting later that month drew more than 20 people together at Ann and Richard Horn's home. By the end of that evening a community had formed whose members felt bound to one another in ways beyond our common purpose of enhancing communication. I knew we were about more than web sites and newsletters. This was family. A group committed to the ministry, but also devoted to one another. This was not the first time I had experienced this communion. So often we find ourselves wrapped up in the work of the church and sometimes lose sight of why we do what we do. If we lose our sense of ministry and feel burdened by the tasks, then our work becomes drudgery and burdensome. But, when we find ourselves in the midst of friends, laughing, sharing ideas and visions of what "might be" in God's plan, then we are enlivened and encouraged to participate in the staging of our ministry in order to prepare a way for new friends to join us in the work.

This communion with others is what we experienced this past year in our meetings. Although our agendas were ostensibly about mapping out plans for communication (which we did), we probably spent even more time sharing our hearts and hopes for the future growth of our parish family.

When the Communications Committee (or "ComCom") set out last year to develop a plan we had some pretty lofty goals. We all recognized how crucial it was to get the word out to those who didn't know it that something magical, unexplainable and plain awesome was happening in our midst. From our first reading of the vision statement we knew it was important not to delay in our efforts to evangelize, in the sense that if we were to provide a home for everyone on their spiritual journey, people who were looking needed to know about St. Paul's. I've never heard anyone speak as though bragging about the miracles of God's grace here. It is well known that it is not our human effort that has transformed this place and the people in it, but God's faithfulness to our prayers and our hope that we might be a beacon of light to those who are seeking God.

In our efforts to be faithful to the ministry of communication, the work of the committee has given birth to the following accomplishments:

·
• An enhanced and expanded Good Word ·
• A brand new, professionally developed web site ·
• Comprehensive weekly bulletin announcements ·
• Extraordinary news coverage and advertising campaign

·
• New exterior and interior signage ·
• Marketing brochures and other literature about St. Paul's ·
• Refurbished Narthex designed to be more visitor friendly ·
• Plans for our Centennial celebration ·
• And more things I just can't think of right now (it's summer after all!)

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have given of themselves and who see themselves as ministers of communication. We have been blessed!

John Battin, for the "ComCom"

New Usher Coordinator

I've had a lot of enjoyment the last five or six years since Jim Kluge made this same announcement with my name. I've worked with a lot of good people -being my brothers and sisters in St. Paul's, how could they not be? - and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for their partnership in this ministry. I ask all of them to continue their involvement and to give Sharon the same cooperation they've given me.

Bob Brown

Newsletter Deadline

Quote of the Month

"Although, as we have seen, people generally long to leave their places of work and get home, ready to put their hard earned free time to good use, all too often they have no idea what to do there. Ironically, jobs are actually easier to enjoy than free time, because like flow activities they have built-in goals, feedback, rules, and challenges, all of which encourage one to become involved in one's work, to concentrate and lose oneself in it. Free time, on the other hand, is unstructured, and requires much greater effort to be shaped into something that can be enjoyed.

"Hobbies that demand skill, habits that set goals and limits, personal interests, and especially inner discipline help to make leisure what it is supposed to be - a chance for re-creation. But on the whole people miss the opportunity to enjoy leisure even more thoroughly than they do with working time. Over sixty years ago, the great American sociologist Robert Park already noted: 'It is in the improvident use of our leisure, I suspect, that the greatest wastes of American life occur'.

"The tremendous leisure industry that has arisen in the last few generations has been designed to help fill free time with enjoyable experiences. Nevertheless, instead of using our physical and mental resources to experience flow, most of us spend many hours each week watching celebrated athletes playing in enormous stadiums. Instead of making music, we listen to platinum records cut by millionaire musicians. Instead of making art, we go to admire paintings that brought in the highest bids at the latest auction. We do not run risks acting on our beliefs, but occupy hours each day watching actors who pretend to have adventures, engaged in mock-meaningful action.

"This vicarious participation is able to mask, at least temporarily, the underlying emptiness of wasted time. But it is a very pale substitute for attention invested in real challenges. The flow experience that results from the use of skills leads to growth; passive entertainment leads nowhere. Collectively we are wasting each year the equivalent of millions of years of human consciousness. The energy that could be used to focus on complex goals, to provide for enjoyable growth, is squandered on patterns of stimulation that only mimic reality. Mass leisure, mass culture, and even high culture when only attended to passively and for extrinsic reasons - such as the wish to flaunt one's status - are parasites of the mind. They absorb psychic energy without providing substantive strength in return. They leave us more exhausted, more disheartened than we were before.

"Unless a person takes charge of them, both work and free time are likely to be disappointing. Most jobs and many leisure activities - especially those involving the passive consumption of mass media - are not designed to make us happy and strong. Their purpose is to make money for someone else. If we allow them to, they can suck out the marrow of our lives, leaving only feeble husks. But like everything else, work and leisure can be appropriated for our needs. People who learn to enjoy their work, who do not waste their free time, end up feeling that their lives as a whole have become much more worthwhile. 'The future,' wrote C. K. Brightbill, 'will belong not only to the educated man, but to the man who is educated to use his leisure wisely.'"
- Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience (Harper Perennial, 1990), pages 162-163.