From the Senior Warden

We rejoice in that we are seeing a number of new faces as well as appreciating the continuing presence of the familiar faces. We had good attendance throughout the summer, which is very encouraging. There is good reason to believe that St. Paul’s is gaining increased visibility through the efforts of the Communications Committee.

We will again be holding a series of cottage meetings to inform as many of you as possible of the financial needs for the coming year and to review our programs and their costs with you. We hope that you all will be able to attend a meeting. There is no better way to gain a better perspective concerning the financial realities of St. Paul’s.

Overall our financial state remains precarious but it has been showing improvement, and for that we also rejoice. It is only normal that our major concentration has been on supporting the structures and activities of the local Parish. Now the Vestry has decided that we must begin to concentrate efforts to again begin paying our Diocesan assessment.

We are starting with a modest goal of paying ten percent; a figure which we will review every six months. By the Grace of God, we will increase this percentage until we are meeting our entire obligation.

It's hard to believe that two thirds of my term as Senior Warden is finished. It has been a pleasure to work with Fr. Randy in this relationship as well as with our Junior Warden Marilyn Pantano.  Beyond what I have been able to contribute to the accomplishment of the goals of the Church, I am grateful for the spiritual growth I feel I have undergone in the process.

Soon we will be calling upon others to accept positions of leadership.  When called I pray that when asked you will accept.

Love and Peace,
John Winesdorfer

Seekers’ Class: 2002

Primary texts: the Bible, the Book of Common Prayer, and John Westerhoff’s A People Called Episcopalians. Any of these books may be borrowed from St. Paul’s for the duration of the class.

Sep 15:

• Introduction and overview. What are Episcopalians?
• Practice: how Catholic Christians read the Bible.
• Homework: Read “Introduction” and “Anglican Identity” chapters in Westerhoff

• Prayer; “centering prayer.”
• Practice: centering prayer.
• Homework: Read “Anglican Authority” in Westerhoff.

• Questions about assigned reading, if any. Who is God?
• Practice: Praying the Scriptures (lectio divina).
• Homework: Read “Anglican Spirituality” in Westerhoff.

• Questions about assigned reading, if any. Who is Jesus?
• Practice: Praying the Scriptures (Ignatian prayer).
• Homework: Read “Anglican Temperament” in Westerhoff.

• Questions about assigned reading, if any. Who is the Holy Spirit?
• Practice: Praying for other people (intercession).
• Homework: Read “Anglican Polity” in Westerhoff.

• Questions about assigned reading, if any. Why Church?
• Practice: How to discern God’s desires for you (the “examen”).

August Vestry Meeting Notes

There were two pieces of correspondence that the clerk read aloud. The first was from Jamie Hill, chairperson for NA. She was writing to request the use of our facilities for an NA meeting on Sundays from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. The vestry discussed this request and decided that there were already several substance abuse recovery programs on campus throughout the week and we wanted to keep space open for other programs at this time.

The second letter was from Robin McCabe, a parishioner from St. Antony’s, Silverdale. She is a member of OutKitsap and wants to start a women’s support group. She asked that we consider allowing her to use the Parish Hall for weekly meetings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursdays. After some discussion, it was decided that we okay her request with a trial period. After three months time, her program would be evaluated to make sure it was a success. She would also need to submit a more detailed outline of what she planned on doing.

Terrie Remick handed out the budget and reported that we are pretty much on target for the year with the exception of not paying the budgeted assessment. John Winesdorfer suggested that we start off by paying 10% of the monthly assessment which is approximately $240 each month. The motion was made that will we make the commitment to pay 10% monthly and then evaluate our progress in six months.

John Winesdorfer reported that we used money that OC EHS gave us to repair the downstairs restrooms. We had previously committed LND grant money to do the repairs. Now that money, along with some other grant money, can be used to improve the kitchen. Carl Glaser checked on commercial gas stove prices for us and found some for about $1100 a piece. With the money we have, approximately $5287, we could just about pay for two stoves, installation, and ventilation.

Rusty Holland reported that this year’s VBS put on by the youth was a huge success. Everyone had fun and the youth group learned a lot about putting on such a large event as well as becoming closer as a group. He also stated that they came in under budget, only spending $1300, most of which was for food.

Tom Remick resigned his vestry position and Don Vanlue, our vestry alternate, replaced him for the time being. Don is having some health problems which may prevent him from finishing Tom’s term. Tom is now part of the Evangelism team for the Diocese.

Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Dueñas
Clerk of the Vestry

The Editor’s View

The summer break officially came to an end when 83 folks gathered under the trees as the gentle rains fell at Illahee State Park on September 9th for the annual church picnic. The cool fall air was full of sounds of worship, song and play as people young and old alike gathered to sing spirituals, listen to lessons and share the Eucharist with each other. After a little extra help from a few cans of lighter fluid, a fire roared to life and soon everyone was munching on real (and fake) hamburgers and hot dogs along with a wide variety of salads and desserts. Many thanks to Sandy Stutey for planning and organizing this last salute to summer fun before the start of the new year!

About 70 folks attended a candle-light memorial service in the nave on Wednesday, September 11th. The anniversary of “911” was observed with Holden Evening Prayer and included time for song, prayers and private reflections on the events of that day and of the past year. As the young children’s voices echoed out from the nursery as they played during the service, it was a powerful reminder of God’s Light and message of hope in the midst of great darkness and fear.

The new program year started with a bang September 15th. Upstairs in the atrium, lots of new faces came to join in the various activities as children, ages 3 to 12 years old, were given a chance to look over their new “space” and see each other after the long summer break. The catechists — Myra Battin, Honi Matchell and myself — are excited about all the new lessons and materials for this year. During the closing “thanksgiving” time several kids commented on how glad they were to be back in the atrium.

Meanwhile, the youth met to discuss Journey to Adulthood and Rite 13 and plans for the fall with Randy and Katherine Adams. The Nursery was alive and buzzing as 10 youngsters under the age of five were playing and learning under the watchful eyes of Terrie Remick and a host of parent volunteers.

While the adult class gathered in the library to talk about the Sunday lessons, the choir was warming up in the choir room to make beautiful music for the 10:15 service. A “Parish Ministry Fair” was led by Sandy Stutey during the 10:15 service. Several church leaders spent time discussing their various servant ministries. A form was made available for folks to volunteer to join in new areas of service or to receive new information (see me for more information.)

The Seekers’ class, a group of about 8 to 10 folks, met with Father Randy in the Oliver Room following the 10:15 service to discuss “What are Episcopalians?” The goal of the class is to introduce people to the Anglican way of life and perspective on key issues of the Christian faith; and to provide tools for growth in ministry and spirituality. The class will also assist people who wish to be confirmed or received in the Episcopal Church when Bishop Warner visits St. Paul’s on October 27th at the 10:15 service.

All in all it is a great symphony of life at St. Paul’s. Come and enjoy the music!

Ann Horn
Editor


Newsletter Deadlines: Please e-mail your newsletter articles by noon on the 15th of each month to Ann Horn. Reach her by e-mail for any questions or concerns. Or catch Ann in the church office on Tuesdays through Fridays at 377-0106. Please note: Articles submitted after the due date will be published in the next month’s newsletter.

A Day of Prayer

The alarm rang and I wondered what this day would bring. One year ago today I had been called by my Godmother and told to watch "The News" on TV. The events were difficult to take in. I felt confused about what was happening, apprehensive about what could happen and horrified about what had happened. I told my children that there were single days in history that they would remember their whole lives and that September 11th, 2001, would be one of those days.

Today, one year later, I watched the world unite by performing Mozart's Requiem across Europe, and North and South America. Countless communities across the United States planned thoughtful and prayerful ceremonies. Candles were lit, bells were tolled, flag ceremonies and prayer services were performed, priests and city officials spoke, lost lives were remembered. Individuals who had lived through the tragedy were willing to share their stories and thanksgivings. Our nation united and so did our church. St. Paul's held an extraordinarily reflective Holden Evening Prayer Service. The candlelight service helped us focus on the promises God has given us as prayerful members of the community.

His Promises are Forever,
Cindy Holland

Odds & Ends

Church Quiz

1. Who is the new Archbishop of Canterbury?

a. Frank Griswold
b. Rowan Williams
c. Vincent Warner

a. Episcopal
b. Anglican
c. Church of England

a. The Council of Bishops
b. Queen Elizabeth II
c. Prime Minister Tony Blair

a. The Very Reverend
b. The Most Reverend
c. The Right Reverend

a. The Very Reverend
b. The Most Reverend
c. The Right Reverend

a. The Very Reverend
b. The Most Reverend
c. The Right Reverend

Worship

We also have a tradition of observing the Feast of St. Luke the Evangelist (and physician) by offering healing prayer in church on the Sunday closest to October 18 (his feast day). On Sunday, October 20th, we will again offer prayers for healing at both Eucharists. Deacon Cece Morris will be preaching at both services.

Bishop Vincent Warner will be visiting St. Paul’s on October 27th for his periodic pastoral visit to the parish.  At the 10:15 liturgy he will preach, celebrate the Eucharist, confirm people who are ready to make a mature affirmation of their baptismal covenant, receive new members into the Episcopal Church, and invite any who feel called to do so to reaffirm their baptismal covenant.

RAL

Nursery

It is my intention to be available for every Sunday Service and any special services throughout the year. We will strive to provide a clean, safe and friendly environment for your children.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Cyndie Lord-Wilkinson, Emily Battin, Ellie and Angie Holland for their help with the nursery this summer. I would also like to thank Sandy McGinley for volunteering when the need arises.

There will be a nursery sign-up sheet each Sunday for those willing to help out with this important ministry at St. Paul’s and we will have available throughout September an information card for you to fill out so we have on file any special needs your child may have.

Anyone interested in helping out in the nursery or having questions may call me at 377-9806 or e-mail me at tntremick@attbi.com.

Faithfully,
Terrie Remick

Around the Diocese

St. Paul’s Altar Guild

The Altar Guild is a "catholic" tradition of service.  Members of the guild prepare the Altar for the consecration of the bread and wine. This is a miracle given to us by Christ as He dined with the Apostles on the day of the Passover at His last supper.

To serve on the Altar Guild you need first, a strong desire to serve the Lord in this service.  When you ask a member of the Altar Guild about serving you are showing an interest and that will not be ignored. Whoever you speak to will surely mention it to Gladys or me and we in turn will tell Father Randy of your interest. You will then be invited to join with us in the service of preparing the Altar.

It is an honor and privilege to serve and I have always recognized this, as I am sure you have too. The duties of the Guild include the washing and ironing of the linens, the polishing of the silver and shining of the brass and placing suitable candles and flowers on the Altar.  We keep track of the amount of wine that is needed and know that there is always communion bread in the cupboard or freezer. The Sacristy candle needs to be changed weekly and we need to have a good supply on hand.  

At this time Caro Dugan has been baking the communion bread and in case you have failed to notice it is delicious. Myra Battin has been taking care of the weddings for us and, as most of you have seen, has done a beautiful service for the bride and groom.  We have baptisms to prepare for and though I personally have not had to prepare for a church funeral, at any time we need to be ready to do it. Christmas time and Easter are our busiest seasons of the year but with such a willing congregation to help it can be a lot of fun.

No one is expected to be able to work alone and you will receive training in all areas. It takes a little effort and time but if you want to do it you can.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Thune     

Kitchen Update

The Diner prepares and feeds hot meals for approximately 650 folks in the community every weekend in the parish hall. Contact Carl Glaser for more information about the ad hoc “Kitchen” committee or Delsie Peebles (377-2915) for more information about the Lord’s Neighborhood Diner.