Bruton Parish Episcopal Church www.brutonparish.org December 2015

CHRONICLEThe

Most of us think of January as thebeginning of a new year. For the Church,the season of Advent marks the start ofa new l i turgical year. It is a funnydifference. What does it mean?

For people of faith, it is an invitationto see time differently. Consider all thedemands on your time. Think about theways you fill your time. Often, it seemslike we don’t have enough time to do thethings we want, or be with those withwhom we wish to spend time.

Step back for a moment. See timefrom another vantage point. Sure, life isfull of practical realities. Yes, we knowthere are things we must do, but our lives

don’t exist within a vacuum. We knowlife in the midst of a larger context thatsubsumes any given moment. We existwithin God’s time.

Advent i s the beg i nn ing of ourconscious focus on God’s finishing work

in the person of Jesus. We gaze once againon the mystery of God made manifest inflesh, sharing the realities of our existence.God ’s coming among us in Jesus i saccomplished precisely to free us from theconfines of our mundane sense of time,and wrap us in the possibility of anotherorder.

Time is a gift. To appreciate the gift,it must be appropriated. Ensconce yourselfin God’s days.

Time Is A GiftBy The Rev’d Chris Epperson

Christmas EveThursday, December 24

Pageant & Holy Eucharist @ 3 pmHoly Eucharist @ 4:30, 6:30,

8:30 & 10:30 pm

We will have two lines to bring worshippersinto the church. Parishioners are askedto form a line from the Palace Gate downthe walk toward the Governor's Palace(and, as always, wearing your parishnametag is helpful). Ushers will help formthis line. The ushers will be sensitive tohealth and fitness of those members ofthe parish in line, and do their best tooffer comfort and expedience. Visitors willform a line down Duke of Gloucester andwill be admitted once we have admittedparishioners.

Christmas DayFriday, December 25Holy Eucharist @ 11 am

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Inside ...300th Anniversary

Celebrations conclude withPresiding Bishop

Michael Curry

A Memento of the 300thAnniversary Year

Looking Forward toBeing an Angel?

Toy Collection for FISH

Winter Shelter at Bruton

Annual Giving 2016

This is the Jesus Movement

Our Anglican Heritage

Poinsettias for theChristmas Altar

Vestry 2016

ECW Christmas Tea

Newcomers Corner

First Friday RecoveryEucharist

Dinners for Eight

Canterbury Ministries ofSouthern VA Fall Retreat

Yoked Togetherin Pilgrimage

Canterbury Gala& Silent Auction

Canterbury GrandIllumination Fundraiser

Living the GospelBible Study

Wednesdays Brown-BagBible Study

Women’s Potluck &Theological Book Group

Be A Receptionist

Bruton Singles

The Harbor is Open

2016 Lenten Devotional

DOK Intercessory Prayers

Rocky Balboa& Stephen Ministry

Friends of Bruton SponsorsTour of Historic Churches

The Greening of the Church

Annual Council Nominations

Children & Youth Formation

Candlelight Concerts

Holiday Handbell& Organ Concert

O Come, Emmanuel:A Holiday Choral Concert

A Message from the BrutonParish Shop Committee

Birthdays & Membership

Parking & ChurchCeiling Repairs

Contributions Dueby Year-End

Fellowship & FormationBrown-Bag Bible Study

Wednesdays @ noon

Bruton Singles (page 10)

ECW Christmas Tea **Wednesday, December 2 @ 4 pm

A Holiday Handbell & Organ ConcertThursday, December 3 @ 8 pm

First Friday Recovery EucharistFriday, December 4 @ 5:30 pm

St. Nicholas’ Toy Collection for FISHSunday, December 6 @ 9:15 am

Newcomers’ CornerSunday, December 6 @ 10:15 am

The Most Rev’d Michael CurryPresiding Bishop & Primate

Sunday, December 6Preaching 11:15 am, Forum following

Canterbury Grand IlluminationFundraiser

Sunday, December 6, 2 - 6 pm

Salvation Army Angel Tree DonationsReturn by Monday, December 7

Poinsettia Donations DueFriday, December 11

Heritage Humane Christmas BazaarSaturday, December 12, 9 am - 4 pm

Living the Gospel Bible StudySunday, December 13 & 27 @ 11 am

Youth Group @ The NutcrackerSunday, December 13 @ 1:30 pm

Latisha’s House Annual Christmas GalaSunday, December 13 @ 7 pm

Bruton Parish Holiday Choral Concert:O Come, Emmanuel by Alan Bullard

& Gloria by VivaldiTuesday, December 15 @ 8 pm

Ordination of The ReverendTyler Lindell Montgomery

Wednesday, December 16 @ 7 pm

The Greening of the ChurchFriday & Saturday, December 18 & 19

8 am through noontime

Children’s Pageant RehearsalSunday, December 20 @ 2 pm

Women’s Theological Book GroupMonday, January 11 @ noon

Women’s Round Table & PotluckMonday, January 11 @ 6:30pm

Worship ScheduleSunday, December 6

Holy Eucharist @ 7:30, 9:15 & 11:15 am

St. Nicholas Visits Bruton @ 9:15 am

Holy Eucharist @ 11:15 amThe Most Rev’d Michael Curry

Preaching & Forum in the church

No 5:30 am service because ofGrand Illumination.

Sunday, December 13Holy Eucharist @ 7:30, 9:15 & 11:15 am

Children’s Church @ 9:15 am *Evening Prayer @ 5:30 pm

_________

Sunday, December 20Holy Eucharist @ 7:30, 9:15 & 11:15 am

Children’s Church @ 9:15 amEvening Prayer @ 5:30 pm

__________

Please see the front page of this issuefor the worship schedule for

Christmas Eve & Day.__________

The First Sunday after Christmas DaySunday, December 27Holy Eucharist @ 7:30 am

Lessons & Carols @ 9:15 & 11:15 amEvening Prayer @ 5:30 pm

__________

Noonday Prayer @ ChurchMonday - Saturday

Holy Eucharist - St. Mary’s ChapelTuesdays @ 7:30 am

Holy Eucharist with Healing PrayersWednesdays @ 11 am (Church)Canterbury Evening Prayer

Tuesdays @ 5:30 pm in Wren Chapelwhen college is in session

* Held in St. Mary’s Chapel in the Parish House.

** Childcare is available for babies throughelementary-aged children by reservation

only. Contact Meghan Brewer(please call 757-345-6489 or email

childcare@brutonparish.org).

By the Grace of Godand with the consent of the people,The Rt. Rev’d Herman Hollerith IV,

Bishop of Southern Virginia, will ordainTyler Lindell Montgomery

to the Sacred Order of Priests in Christ’sOne Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church on

Wednesday, December 16, at 7 pmin Bruton Parish Church.

Your prayers and presence are requested.A reception will be held in Lewis Hall

following the service.

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Closing 300th Anniversary Celebrationwith Presiding Bishop Michael CurryThe Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will be our guest preacheron Sunday, December 6, for the final celebration of our300th Anniversary year. He will preach during the 11:15 amservice only, with a forum following immediately in the church.

For both the 11:15 service and the forum, we will havetwo lines to bring worshippers into the church. Parishionersare asked to form a line from the Palace Green Gate downthe walk toward the Governor’s Palace (and, as always, wearingyour parish nametag is helpful). Ushers will help form this lineand be sensitive to the health and fitness of those membersof the parish in line, and do their best to offer comfort andexpedience. Visitors will form a line down Duke of GloucesterStreet and will be admitted once we have admittedparishioners.

A Memento of the 300th Anniversary YearA memento of Bruton’s celebratory year will make a very special Christmas gift for friends and family.The merchandise, available in a variety of price ranges, is displayed in a special nook of 300th anniversaryitems in the Bruton Parish Shop. Choose fromamong the following, or get one of each!

Beautiful pewter Jefferson cups;Sterling silver charms of the church; CDsof Christmas Choral Music, performed byBruton Parish choirs at 2012 and 2013concerts; Wooden Christmas ornaments;Wooden necklace cross; Note cards;porcelain tile and etched brass Christmasornaments; ceramic coffee mugs;refrigerator magnets; tumbled marblecoasters and trivets with cork backing.

Perfect for holiday giving, tins ofWhitley’s “home-cooked” Virginiapeanuts are packaged with Bruton Parish300th logo labels.

We look forward to seeing youin the Shop – and remember: all proceeds go to outreach and mission!

In early September, I noticed on the EpiscopalNews Service website that I could sign up forthe lottery to win a ticket to Michael Curry'sinstallation as Presiding Bishop. I submitted myinformation to the lottery never dreaming thatI would ever get a ticket. Much to my surprise,I received an invitation and ticket in October.

Early on the morning of November 1, Idrove to Washington and joined two friends whowere also attending the service. As we waited(patiently) for the cathedral doors to open, wewatched about 150 bishops preparing to enteralong with approximately 2500 other attendees.The excitement was palpable.

The service began when former PresidingBishop Katharine Jefferts Schori opened thedoors of Washington National Cathedral toBishop Curry, and then they processed to thebaptismal font where they blessed the water.The two of them led the congregation in therenewal of our baptismal vows and then they

walked down the center aisle sprinkling the peoplewith the water of baptism.

The service was spirit-filled with an array ofdifferent types of music. After Bishop Curry'sofficial installation had taken place, the servicecontinued with a powerful sermon in which the newPresiding Bishop talked about the Jesus Movementand told the congregation "Don't worry, be happy.The church is changing, but it is not dying." Atone point during the sermon, I heard the personbehind me say, "He should run for president."

Bishop Curry’s words about the future of theEpiscopal Church were very positive. At the endof his sermon, the congregation gave him astanding ovation, which is something that doesn'tordinarily happen in most Episcopal Churches.

The service then continued with the Eucharist.When the congregation said the Lord's Prayer, all2500+ people in the Cathedral held hands. Thehymn at the closing was "Lift Every Voice andSing". It was a joyful celebration.

New Presiding Bishop Installed at WashingtonNational CathedralBy Isabel Burch

Toy Collection for FISHBy Meghan Brewer

St. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, will be making hisannual visit to Bruton Parish to collect the toyswe bring to the 9:15 service for delivery to FISHwhere they will be distributed to families in need.

To participate, please bring a new,unwrapped toy for a child of any age tothe 9:15 am service on December 6.

This is a great opportunity for our childrenand families to be involved in communitymission this month — take your childrenshopping with you so that they can help youselect a toy they believeanother child will love toreceive.

December 6 is alsoGrand Illumination ,which means that we willhave many vis itorsamong us, and throughyour participation in thistoy drive, they will seehow generous the peopleof Bruton Parish reallyare. There will be noChildren's Church thatday so that our youngermembers can bring theirtoys to St. Nicholasthemselves.

Projects Continue withBruton BuildersBy Isabel Burch

After completing our last project of building aramp in conjunction with Housing Partnerships,Bruton Builders is preparing to complete somemore jobs.

We have agreed to do some painting atChanco beginning Monday, November 30,and hope to schedule this work in the nearfuture. After the first of the year, we will bejoining again with Housing Partnerships to beginanother project with them.

We hope that more parishioners will joinwith those who are already working with thisministry. Bruton Builders actually have lots offun while we work to provide something fora fami ly in need. P lease contact us atbuilders@brutonparish.org to sign up or toask questions. I think we can guarantee thatyou will be glad you joined our group!

Looking Forwardto Being an Angel?By Leslie Coe

As you make your Christmas list this year, addan Angel Tree child. Pick up an Angel Tree kitat the Parish House. Each kit contains a tag,sheet and bag, with details about a child:gender, age, sizes, Christmas wish list, etc.Then go shopping, keeping in mind that theSalvation Army recommends the donation ofone toy and one outfit or coat, at a total valueof no more than $40-$45. Put the new, unwrapped items in the bag,attach the child's information tag, then pleaseremember to have your gifts back by Monday,December 7 — either directly to the SalvationArmy office (151 Kristainsand Drive, Suite 109,Williamsburg, Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm) orto the Parish House, Christine Britton’s office.

For more information, contact Leslie Coe(angeltree@brutonparish.org or 757-220-3751).

Winter Shelter at BrutonBy Leslie Boye & Lynn Clark

Sign-ups for Bruton’s Winter Shelter Week(January 24-31, 2016) went live on Sunday,November 1, and parishioners have claimedmany of the volunteer spaces already! Wecontinue to look to fill all guest shifts; pleasevisit our website’s homepage and click on theWinter Shelter logo on the right-hand side tosign up.

Also, we have begun to build funds for ourWinter Shelter Week — monetary donations gotoward meals and other operating expensesneeded to host our 25-30 guests for the week.In addition, items like bus tickets, laundrycards, hats, gloves, and scarves our guests

need during and after their stay areprovided. If you would like tocontribute monetarily to the WinterShelter program, please write yourcheck to Bruton Parish and in thememo line and/or envelope write“COFM” and place it in the offeringplate. You can also donate online by

visiting our website and clicking Access ACS ormail it to the parish office.

Thank you to those who have alreadydedicated your time and money to convey God’sgrace and love by providing physical warmthand nourishment to those dealing with fear,uncertainty, and homelessness.

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Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive for FISHThere’s still time to pick up a bag (or two!) from the Parish House, fill it with the suggesteditems, and bring them to the Thanksgiving Eve service at 6pm on Wednesday,November 25 to receive a blessing before being delivered to FISH. If you can’t attend theservice, please bring your donation to the Parish House prior to Thanksgiving. Volunteersand vehicles are needed Friday, November 27 to transport the donations to FISH andhelp stock the pantry shelves. We anticipate more than 400 bags this year, requiring people-power and vehicles. Please plan to join us at the Parish House at 8:30am on the morning ofthe 27th.

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Annual Giving 2016By Marty Easton

Let us with gladness present theofferings and oblations of our life andlabor to the Lord.The Book of Common Prayer, 1979page 377

Thank you for the early response to AnnualGiving 2016, now in progress. Extra pledgecards are available at the Parish House receptionarea, or visit www.brutonparish.org/givingto find the easy online pledge form.

Please prayerfully consider your pledge andaim to return your completed pledge card on orbefore Sunday, November 22. Besides beingthe Sunday before Thanksgiving Day, it is thefinal Sunday of the liturgical year. By havingan ingathering of pledges on this day, wesymbolically leave the current year and makea commitment to regular giving in the next.Pledge cards will be brought forward and blessedon that date at the 9:15 and 11:15 services,just as the people’s offerings are presented atthe altar every Sunday.

Annual Giving is especially important thisyear, as it is a key objective of the Campaignfor the Fourth Century. We realized in Campaignplanning that it was efficient and prudent tomake the annual fund a priority for two reasons.First, higher operating income will allow for thereturn of support for mission and outreach toformer levels that can continue to grow. Second,we can create reasonable reserves for physicalplant projects, both planned and unforeseen.

Steve Hibbitts, Treasurer, reported at theAnnual Parish Meeting that our yearly appealshave resulted in the same amount since 2010:approximately $1.1 million. Therefore, wechallenge ourselves this year to reach a goal of$1,400,000. Combined with anticipated,customary support from the Bruton ParishEndowment Fund of $325,000, this brings us toa total goal of $1,725,000. This amount isprojected to provide 85% of expected revenuefor 2016 and will support the full range of BrutonParish mission and ministry — all that we areand do.

If you wish to speak with someone tofacilitate your pledge in any way, please don’thesitate to phone Dudley Hoyle, the Rev’d ChrisEpperson, or the Rev’d Charles Robinson. Ifyou wish to receive a visit from a laypersonhelping with this effort, please email me atcampaign@brutonparish.org. Thank you foryour support of Annual Giving 2016.

Our Anglican HeritageBy Bryant Cureton

The Hennage Library is a great place to learnmore about our Anglican roots and the uniquetradition we share with the largerAnglican Communion. Here are threeexamples of books that can informand inspire (the catalog numbers showwhere to find them on the shelves):

Mark Chapman, Anglicanism:A Very Short Introduction(283 ChaA) provides both ahistorical grounding and aglobal perspective onAnglicanism.

Richard H. Schmidt, Glorious Companions:Five Centuries of Anglican Spirituality(283 SchG) highlights 29 significant figuresin worldwide Anglicanism, from ThomasCranmer to Desmond Tutu.

Frederick Quinn, To Be a Pilgrim:The Anglican Ethos in History (283 QuiT)interprets the distinctive Anglicanapproach, with its emphasis on reason,moderation, and liturgy.

As you look for these, you are sure to find othersnearby that will also interest you. And besidesbooks, the Library maintains the Link Library(www.brutonparish.org/link_library) whereyou’ll find internet resources on our AnglicanRoots and Current Connections.

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A Message from thePresiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church"This is the Jesus Movement, and we are The Episcopal Church, the Episcopal branch of Jesus' movement inthis world." In his first address as Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church, Presiding BishopCurry continues, "Now is our time to go. To go into the world, let the world know that there is a God wholoves us, a God who will not let us go, and that that love can set us all free." Visit http://bit.ly/1SWuIEzfor video or text of his full message which was filmed at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in NewYork City.

Bishop Michael Bruce Curry applauds as he begins hissermon after his Installation ceremony, at the WashingtonNational Cathedral, in Washington, November 1, 2015.Curry becomes the first African-American Episcopalpresiding bishop. Photo courtesy REUTERS Mike Theiler

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This year’s ChristmasPageant wil l be heldThursday, December24, at 3:00 pm in thechurch as part of aservice of Holy Eucharist.For those children andyouth participating in thepageant, a rehearsal

will be held from 2-3 pm on Sunday,December 20, in the church. Please contactMeghan Brewer for more information (757-229-2891 or mbrewer@brutonparish.org).

Heritage Humane SocietyChristmas BazaarItems include soup kitchen, baked goods, giftbaskets, gift trees, pet apparel, crafts, jewelry,pet toys, pet treats, scarves, handmade purses,picture frames, Christmas decor and more! Allproceeds benefit the Heritage Humane Society.For details, please visit the shelter’s website atwww.heritagehumanesociety.org. This year’sbazaar will be held on Saturday, December12, in the Parish Hall. There’s something foreveryone on your list!

Poinsettias for theChristmas AltarBy Dianne Spence

Contributions are now being accepted for thepoinsettias that will decorate the Christmas altar.The deadline is Friday, December 11, forreceiving the names to be included in the bulletinas a memorial, a thank offering, or in honor ofsomeone special.

Please make checks payable to BrutonParish Church Altar Guild and send to DianneSpence at 102 Walnut Hills Drive, 23185-3427. Please do not send the checks to thechurch office. Include your telephonenumber on the correspondence or check.Contact me at poinsettias@brutonparish.org or757-229-4915.

C H I L D R E N ’ S C H R I S TM A S P AG E A N T

T H U R S DAY , D E C 24 @ 3 PM

P AG E A N T R E H E A R SA LS U N DAY , D E C 20 @ 2 PM

A CHRISTMAS TEA GATHERING OF OLD AND NEW AND ECW INVITES YOU!FOR TEA, SINGING AND TREATS OH MY, AND YUMMIES AND FELLOWSHIP -

GIVE IT A TRY!

PARENTS, FRIENDS, AND FAMILY TOO,ALL ARE WELCOMED TO SHARE THE AFTERNOON WITH YOU!

JOYFUL NOISE, TALKING, AND LOTS OF FUN,WILL DEFINITELY BE HAD BY EVERYONE!

THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TEABRUTON PARISH HALL - WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 @ 4 PM

RSVP TO ECWCHRISTMASTEA@BRUTONPARISH .ORG OR CALL 757-229-2891

Vestry2016

Congratulations toour newly-electedvestry members.

Jeanette Cureton,Alice Erickson,Bill Greaf and

Mark Serena wereelected at theAnnual Parish

Meeting onNovember 8 to athree-year termending January

2019. Our thanksfor their servicealso go to Janet

Estes, BobMagnusson, Al Louer

and Judy Collard,outgoing vestry

members.

Newcomers’ CornerOn the first Sunday of each month, new membersof Bruton Parish are invited to join clergy, vestryand Newcomers Committee members for coffeein the Custis House at 10:30 am. This is a greatopportunity to become more acquainted with theparish and learn of the many ministries here atBruton. Join us December 6.

First Friday RecoveryEucharistSpir itWorks Foundation, a non-prof it inWilliamsburg that works with people in recoveryfrom addiction, will host their monthly Eucharistat Bruton on Friday, December 4, at 5:30 pm.This service offers readings and prayers thatfocus on recovery from addiction, mental illness,and trauma. Whether you are in recovery, havefriends or family members in recovery, or simplyare curious about this type of worship, thisservice is open to everyone!

Dinners for EightBy Jo-Anne Hand

This is a great way to make new friends andbecome reacquainted with old ones!

Parishioners who sign up will be assignedto a group of eight. Group members will taketurns hosting a gathering in their homes, at arestaurant, or wherever. When and where agroup meets will be determined by the individualgroup. The gathering can be a dinner, a cocktailparty, a brunch — the host and group decides.Simplicity is the rule. This is not a gourmet club.Fellowship is the main objective. Groups will be assigned in January 2016,will begin to meet in February, and continuethrough June.

To sign up for Dinners for Eight or if youhave any questions, please email your name,address and phone number to Jo-Anne Hand(dinner4eight@brutonparish.org or 757-345-6950).

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On the last weekend of October, a group of nineteenW&M students joined seventeen students from ODU,CNU, and Longwood University at Camp Chancoon the James for an overnight retreat. The groupkept the daily office of Evening Prayer, Compline,Morning Prayer, and Noonday Prayer, and theypracticed the great silence at night. This is the firsttime that all four Diocesan Campus Ministries havecome together at the same time and place in recenthistory. It was nice to see different students fromdifferent locations coming together as one Body inChrist. These students are the Church now, and itis a privilege to serve them.

Yoked Togetherin PilgrimageThe Very Rev’d Robert Willis visited ColonialWilliamsburg and preached in Bruton Parish onSunday, October 25. Among other things, DeanWillis drew a connection between CanterburyCathedral and Bruton Parish, suggesting that weshare a remarkable and distinct opportunity totransform tourists into pilgrims when they come toour places of worship. In March of next year, twentyW&M students will be making a pilgrimage toCanterbury Cathedral, where we will be hosted byDean Willis, and where we will connect with ourmother Church and the roots of our Anglicantradition. To quote Dean Willis, it seems that weare "yoked together in pilgrimage" after all!

L to R Back Row: Geoff Ringlee, Aaron Cole, Alex Maneval,Jon Rigby, Will Lee, Jack Mullins, Emily Steele, Catherine Lovitt,Jacob Keohane; L to Right Front Row: Kait Gibson, EmilyKate Earls, Kelsey Mathern, Bethany Bennett, Carina Bilger,Hillary Leersnyder

Campus Ministries of Southern Virginia Fall Retreat

Gala & Silent AuctionPlanning Has Begun!Planning for the 9th Annual Gala and SilentAuction has begun! This year the gala will takeplace on Saturday, April 2, 2016, and willbe held in William & Mary’s Wren Chapel.

At this time, we are asking for and wouldappreciate donations from parishioners ofhigh-quality auction items, as well as giftcertificates from local businesses (restaurants,home décor stores, etc.). Items can bedropped off at the front office in the ParishHouse. If possible, please leave your nameand number with the donation, along with abrief description. We want to advertiseeverything correctly and give credit wheredue.

If you have any questions, please feel freeto send an email to gala@brutonparish.org ortmontgomery@brutonparish.org. Thank youso much for your continuous support ofCanterbury and our outreach mission!

The Rev’d Tyler Montgomery “yoking” it up with The Very Rev’dRobert Willis, Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, England.

Canterbury GrandIllumination FundraiserOnce again this year, we Canterburians, andour admirable Bruton Parish friends, findourselves hoping and praying for a clear coldnight for our Concessions Sale on Sunday,December 6!

We will be open for business from 2 - 6pm having worked all the previous day toprepare our completely excellent offering ofham biscuits, corn dogs, chocolate chipcookies and much more — ALL preparedby our own fair (and scrupulouslyclean) hands.

We will be selling water, soda,coffee, hot chocolate, and hot cider —perfect for sipping while you watch thefireworks. We will shut up shop and clean upthe church hall, then come along to view thespectacle ourselves.

Just a reminder, we do this sale of foodand drink every year to build up funds tosubsidize our activities: our retreat atCamp Chanco, the sunrise Eucharistin the state park at Virginia Beach,and our service/mission trip duringspring break. We hope you may findthis an attractive and appealing goodcause to support: we long to see your smilingfaces and to sell you some of the best-valuefood and drinks available during the GrandIllumination!

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Wednesdays’ Brown-BagBible StudyBring your lunch and gather each Wednesdayin the Coffee, Tea & Thee room upstairs in theParish House at noon. This Lectionary-basedBible study is centered upon the Gospel for thecoming Sunday. The preacher for the week willfacil itate these sessions where those inattendance will be able to reflect upon thescriptures that will be the focus of the Sundaysermon. The studies may provide increasedinsight into the sermon or explore aspects ofthe passages beyond the scope of the sermon,or both. Take time out of your day and try thisexploration!

Women’s Potluck &Theological Book GroupThe Evening Roundtable &Potluck wil l meet onMonday, January 11, at6:30pm at Susie Morrison’shouse. Please rsvp to Susieand get d irect ions oradditional info (757-846-6863or (WomensEveningGroup@brutonparish.org)and bring a dish to share!

Are you interested in joining other womento discuss works of fiction and non-fictionthrough a theological lens? If so, please join uson Monday, January 11, to discuss Peace Likea River by Leif Enger. Bring your lunch fromnoon through 1:30 pm in the Coffee, Tea & Theeroom in the Parish House. Childcare is availableby reservation only (contact Meghan Brewerdirectly at childcare@brutonparish.org).

Bruton SinglesBy Heidi Elam, Eda Martinand Ruth Mullaney

Bruton Singles is a fellowship ministry tailoredtowards parishioners and members of the widercommunity who are single. We typically gettogether once each week to attend variousevents in the parish and the larger community.Each event is accompanied bya meal and/or dessert (paidseparately) at which weenjoy fellowship and dis-cussion. To participate inany event, please procuretickets to the function and call thelisted coordinator.

Sunday, December 6, 5:30pmCanterbury's Grand IlluminationFundraiserHelp support our Canterburians by joining usat the Parish House for ham biscuits and cider,followed by musical performances on the PalaceGreen, culminating with the fireworks displayat 7pm (free + meal). Call Eda Martin (757-253-1477) to rsvp.

Tuesday, December 15, 8pmChristmas Concert:Bruton Parish Choirs & OrchestraMeet us at the church entrance at 7:30pm andsupport the Bruton Choirs & Orchestra for theirannual Christmas concert (voluntary contri-bution + meal). Afterwards we’ll enjoy refresh-ments in the Williamsburg Lodge Garden Room.Call Heidi Elam (757-897-5012) to rsvp.

Thursday, December 17, 7:30pmWilliamsburg Women's ChorusWinter ConcertJoin us at Peter Chang Chinese Restaurant onRichmond Road at 5:30pm and then attend theWomen's Chorus Winter Concert at Walnut HillsBaptist Church ($15 + meal). Call Ruth Mullaney(757-229-6961) to rsvp.

Saturday, December 19, 5pmDinner & Holiday Movie in New TownJoin us for dinner at Center Street Grille in NewTown at 5pm, then we’ll pick a movie at RegalCinemas (ticket + meal). Call Ruth Mullaney(757-229-6961) to rsvp.

Wednesday, December 31, 8pmFirst NightMeet us inside the Methodist Church lobby onJamestown Road at 6:30pm for a performanceby the Three Jolly Coachmen. We will thenchoose other entertainment venues and eat aswe go (visit www.firstnightwilliamsburg.org topurchase your First Night Button online for $15from Colonial Williamsburg + meal). Call HeidiElam (757-897-5012) to rsvp.

Latisha’s HouseAnnual Christmas GalaCelebrate the holidays at the Doubletree Hotel with theirthird annual Christmas gala (semi-formal or black tieoptional) for the Latisha's House Foundation, Inc.Latisha’s House runs the only open safe house in Virginiafor victims of sex trafficking. Latisha’s House offers youngwomen the opportunity to get their GED, go to collegeand become contributing members of society.

Join them on Sunday, December 13, at theDoubletree Hotel in Williamsburg to enjoy a silent auction,fine dining (provided by the Williamsburg CateringCompany, including the full marketplace spread, filetmignon, and wine), and music. Tables seating eight canbe purchased for $1750. Tickets can also be purchasedfor individuals at $190.

Tickets can be purchased online or checks madepayable to Latisha's House Foundation, Inc., can be sentto P.O. Box 5817, Williamsburg, Virginia 23188. Onceyour check and/or donation online is received, the ticketswill be mailed directly to you, or held at the DoubletreeHotel for you to pick up. For questions, contact us atlatishashouse@gmail.com, or call Elizabeth Ameling at757-603-2255 for more information.

Living theGospel

BibleStudy

This Lectionary-based Bible study isheld at 11am every

second and fourthSunday in the

Custis House andlooks at what the

impact of theGospel message is

on our everydaylives. Join us on

Sundays,December 13

& 27.

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Rocky Balboa andStephen MinistryBy Laurie Krebs

Excerpted from a Stephen Ministry Care Mailmessage from Joel Bretscher, October 2015

The year is 1976. It is the year the movie Rockywas released. Do you remember?

Think back to the night before the WorldHeavyweight Championship. Rocky Balboa is soworried, he cannot sleep. So he visits the arenawhere the boxing match against Apollo Creedwill take place. Distraught, he goes to hisgirlfriend, Adrian, and waking her up, protests,“I can’t do it. I can’t beat him … I’ve been outthere walkin’, thinking, I mean, who am Ikiddin’? I ain’t even in the guy’s league.”

Now think about Adrian’s reply. Whichresponse did she make?

A. “Don’t talk like that, Rocky. You have tothink positive! You can beat him.”

B. “You didn’t have to wake me up to tell meyou’re going to lose. I already know that.”

C. “What are we gonna do?”

If you’ve seen the movie, you know thatAdrian responds by asking, “What are we gonnado?” In saying this, she offers a great exampleof how to be a caring presence.

She doesn’t try to cheer him up or changethe subject. She lets Rocky vent hisfeelings. She doesn’t offer a solutionbut helps him think and talk about theproblem. She lets him know he is notalone by saying, “What are we gonnado?”

With her caring response, Rockyis able to adjust his goal and focus onsimply staying in the ring with Apolloone round at a time and going thedistance. He does this for 15 rounds …and the rest is movie history.

Adr ian’s response is a greatexample for us. When someone is inneed, our human tendency is to try tofix or minimize the situation. Instead,Stephen Ministry tries to focus onbeing a caring presence like Adrianwas. We affirm the other’s feelings, let themknow we are truly listening, and we invite themto discover their own solutions.

By the way, the first class of StephenMinisters was commissioned in 1975, one yearbefore Rocky was filmed. Could Adrian havebeen in one of those first Stephen Ministerclasses? Maybe so.

If you or someone you know might benefitfrom the help of a Stephen Minister, please makea confidential call to Charlie Clapper (757-564-6191) or Mary Jean Hurst (757-810-5112) formore information.

What a beautifulFlower Cross wasmade from manyparishioners’donations of cutflowers in memoryof their lovedones!

The Harbor is OpenBy Michael Thompson

The Harbor, a new day-shelter for ourless fortunate neighbors, openedat St. Bede's Outreach Center on

Richmond Road onOctober 12. This is ajoint effort of many faithgroups here in theWilliamsburg area.

The first week, 14 guests were welcomed,with 22 on the second week. The Harbor is openMonday through Thursday from 10am until 2pm.At The Harbor, guests find shelter, receive a hotmeal and have the opportunity to use showerfacilities.

So far, Bruton has about eight volunteers.They check-in the guests, prepare a simple hotmeal and offer showers. Wouldn't you like tohelp? Please contact Helen Hansen to offer yourtime to this worthwhile project (757-645-3331or helenfoxhanson@gmail.com).

2016 Lenten DevotionalBy Donna Marshall

The Daughters of the King are makingpreparations for the 2016 Lenten Devotional.Contributors are needed to provide writtenreflections on assigned scripture passages forpublication in the Devotional. Individuals,couples, and families are invited to contribute.Scripture passages will be assigned at the endof November and will be due by January 18. Ifyou are interested in writing a reflection for the2016 Lenten Devotional, or if you would likemore information, please email me directly atDOKdevotional@brutonparish.org.

DOK IntercessoryPrayersPart of our rule of life as TheOrder of the Daughters ofthe King® is consistentintercessory prayer.Prayers are said for fourweeks and may berepeated. Anyone whowishes to have prayers said for them or forothers, please fill out a blue request card at thechurch tower and drop it in the DOK prayer box.Offered this month by Mary Kafes is the prayerbelow taken from the Book of Common Prayer,page 216.

Most loving Father, whose will it is for us to givethanks for all things, to fear nothing but the lossof you, and to cast all our care on you who carefor us: Preserve us from faithless fears andworldly anxieties, that no clouds of this mortallife may hide from us the light of that love whichis immortal, and which you have manifested tous in your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who livesand reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit,one God, now and forever.

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Friends of Bruton SponsorsTour of Historic ChurchesBy Jim Morford

Members and Friends of Bruton recently touredthree historic churches in our Tidewater area. Whatmade this tour truly special was that it was led byDr. Carl Lounsbury, Senior Architectural Historianat the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. He is theauthor of numerous books on colonial architectureincluding Bruton Parish Church, An ArchitecturalHistory (available in the Parish Shop).

The first stop was atAbingdon Parish Churchlocated in a beautiful settingalong the George Washing-tonMemoria l Highway inGloucester County. The groupwas greeted by Rev’d SvenVanBaars, their rector, whojoined with Dr. Lounsbury intelling the story of Abingdon.Among the many interestingdetails, we learned that thepresent building dates fromthe early 1750s; the builder (or“undertaker” as he would have

been called in the 18th century) got his startworking at Bruton Parish Church; the churchfollows the pattern of a Latin cross, a form firstdeveloped in Virginia at Bruton. Abingdon is anactive church with two services held each Sundayand a 5:30 service on the 2nd Saturday of themonth.

Next stop was Ware Episcopal Church, also ina beautiful setting in Gloucester County. JoiningDr. Lounsbury in telling the story of Ware was theRector, Rev’d Grant Ambrose. Located near thehead of the Ware River the church, which datesfrom 1719, is one of the largest erected in colonialVirginia. Three doorways are accentuated byrubbed and gauged frontispieces — among theearliest found in Virginia. Church organist, MichaelMonaco, treated the group to selections writtenby Peter Pelham (who he portrays for ColonialWilliamsburg) and played in the 18th century style.He also played a modern piece demonstrating thedifferences between 18th and 20th century pipeorgans.

The third and final stop was at Christ Churchin Lancaster County. Before touring the church,the group enjoyed a box lunch in the BayneConference Center and a brief orientation video.Built in the 1730s, it was the most pretentiousAnglican Church built in colonial Virginia. It is alsothe best preserved from that period. Constructionwas substantially paid for by Robert “King” Carter,one of the wealthiest men in the colony. TodayChrist Church is primarily an historic site butcontinues to function as an Episcopal church withSunday morning services conducted from MemorialDay through Labor Day. The Carter ReceptionCenter houses a museum and gift shop.

The Friends of Bruton Committee is planningto visit additional colonial churches in the Tidewaterarea next spring with Dr. Lounsbury once againacting as guide.

Dr. Lounsburyexplains intricacies

of brick work atChrist Church tomembers of the

Bruton group.

The Greening of theChurchVolunteers are needed, both ladies andgentlemen, to assist in the annual two-dayholiday event traditionally referred to asThe Greening of the Church. Simply put,it's time to start planning the project toprepare and hang the Christmasdecorations in the church.

Friday, December 18, at 8 amthrough noon in Lewis Hall, all the fruit willbe wired and placed on the wreaths.Please bring with you wire cutters, scissorsor shears thatwi l l cut pinebranches andbunched pineneedles. Yourhelp wi l l beneeded even ifyou do not havethese tools! Noe x p e r i e n c eneeded!

Saturday, December 19, at 8 amthrough noon in Lewis Hall and the Church,drivers of pick-up trucks, station wagons,and vans are asked to be at the ParishHouse at 8 am to load the completedwreaths, roping and baby's breath fortransportation to the church. Volunteersnot assisting with transporting the greensare asked to be at the church between8:30 and 8:45 am. Volunteers will beperforming a number of duties. The Baby'sBreath Society wi l l convene in theGovernor's Pew for the annual stemmingof the flowers that adorn many of thewreaths. Garlands and wreaths will behung both inside and outside the church,so dress warmly. If you have a ladder(all lengths are needed), please bring it.Shears and wire cutters will also beneeded. If you have any questions, pleaseemail greens@brutonparish.org or callSarah Darling (757-871-7259).

Annual CouncilNominationsNominations for elections at our 124thAnnual Council to be held February 5 &6, 2016, are now being accepted. Thenomination form can be found on our diocesanwebsite at www.diosova.org and must beprinted, f i lled out and mailed since allnominations must be received by mail andoriginal signature is required. You will also findinformation about and requirements for eachposition open for election. Elections to takeplace are: Standing Committee (1 Laity, 1Clergy); Disciplinary Board (1 Laity, 2Clergy); and Provincial Synod (1 Laity, 1Clergy). For more details about Council asthey become available, please visit ourdiocesan website noted above.

ReceptionVolunteerBy Kathryn Smith

Help is needed atthe Bruton Parish

reception desk.Volunteers for both

regular shifts andsubstitutes are

needed to work oneor two shifts, either

from 9am to 1pm or1pm to 5pm. If

interested, pleasevisit the VolunteerNeeds page on our

website, leave yourname at the

reception desk,or call the

church office.

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Nursery is ava i lab le each Sunday fornewborns through 4-year-olds on the first floorof the Parish House from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Children’s Church is age-appropriate worshipheld at 9:15 am in St. Mary’s Chapel, tailoredfor children K-5th grade. Drop off yourchild(ren) at 9 am, then head to the church andsave your child a seat, as they’ll join thecongregation at the Peace. We will continueholding an age-appropriate service for 3-4 yearolds in the room next to the nursery in theParish House during this timeframe.

Sunday School for children and youth through12th grade is held at 10:30 am in the CustisHouse for 6th-12th grade youths and in theParish House for children through 5th grade.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2Our children’s and youth choirs aresinging during the ECW Christmas Teathis day at 4pm. Be sure to rsvp and comeenjoy their special singing and, if you’ve madean Advent Wreath that they are using ascenterpieces for the tea, be sure to take ithome!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6St. Nicholas will be visiting Bruton Parishduring the 9:15am service to gather donatedChristmas toys. There will be no Children'sChurch nor Choir Rehearsal this Sunday as ourchildren will be singing at both the 9:15 serviceand 11:15 service that day (choir rehearsalswill resume January 10). After communion,there will be a short Advent Activity ofCookie Decorating, allowing the children toget back to church in time for singing duringthe 11:15 service.

Children & Youth FormationBy Meghan Brewer

Youth Group carvingpumpkins, puttingtogether the bags forthe ThanksgivingFood Drive for FISH,along with enjoyingdinner, fellowshipand prayer.

During Sunday School, our children were making creations out of Legos, Playdoh, etc.after hearing the story of the creation. They were creating how they see the world!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13

Children's Church will beheld at 9:15, followed by anAdvent Activity of makingChristmas Ornaments withJohanna Thompson. Ouryouth group will be going tosee The Nutcracker a tWilliam & Mary. There arelimited tickets that have beenpurchased (they had to bebought in advance), so thefirst 30 people who tell methey want to come will be theones who go. The youthprogram will be covering aportion of the cost, however,there will be a $10 charge peryouth. The show begins at2pm, so p lease meet at1:30pm at the William andMary Hall.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20PAGEANT REHEARSAL

There will be Children'sChurch at 9:15, and anAdvent Activity a ftercommunion. There will onlybe ONE dress rehearsalfor our Pageant. We willmeet at the church at 2pm,where everyone will havetheir costumes, and the stagewill be set up. We will run through the pageantabout three times so that everyone gets an ideaof what to do. I realize this is a busy time of theyear, however, we really need everyone to makeit for this hour to be prepared for the pageantthat will take place at 3pm on Christmas Eve.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24CHRISTMAS EVE

For those participating in thePageant, please meet in theCustis House (the white houseacross from the church) at 2pm. Thiswill be our time to get dressed andprepare to walk across the Duke ofGloucester to share this amazing storyof Jesus's birth. Please note thatnursery will be available ONLYduring the 3pm service onChristmas Eve.

Sunday, December 27There will be no children’sprogramming on this Sunday.

Candlelight Concerts Offered by Our Music Ministryto the Parish & Community

Concerts are held inthe church at 8:00

p.m. unless otherwisenoted. Parking is

permitted on Duke ofGloucester Street infront of the churchduring the recitals.

Tuesday, December 1Holiday Choral Concert - St. Gertrude HighSchool Women’s Honors Ensemble fromRichmond, VA - Lisa Fusco, DirectorRebecca Davy, Organist

Thursday, December 3Holiday Handbell & Organ Concert - BrutonParish Tarpley Ringers, Rebecca Davy, Director& JanEl Will, Organist

Friday, December 4Holiday Choral Concert - Douglas Freeman HighSchool Festival Choir from Richmond, VAAmy Hruska, Director

Saturday, December 5Holiday Choral Concert - Emulate Ensemblefrom Eastern Mennonite University inHarrisburg, VA - Ryan Keebaugh, Director

Tuesday, December 8Holiday Choral Concert - Sanctuary Choir& Strings from Second Baptist Church inRichmond, VA - Bill Miller, Director

Thursday, December 10Holiday Choral Concert - Manassas CommunityChorale, from Manassas, VABecky Verner, Director

Saturday, December 12Holiday Choral Concert - New DominionChoraliers Community Choir fromPrince William County, VAKatherine Nelson-Tracey, Director

Tuesday, December 15Holiday Choral Concert - O Come, Emmanuelby Alan Bullard & Gloria by VivaldiBruton Parish Choirs & OrchestraRebecca Davy, Director & JanEl Will, Organist

Thursday, December 17Holiday Choral Concert - One Accord Choirfrom First Baptist Church in Richmond, VAPhilip Mitchell, Director

Saturday, December 19Holiday Choral Concert - Tabernacle BaptistChurch Choir from Richmond, VAJudy Fiske, Director

Tuesday, December 22Holiday Organ & Instruments RecitalCheryl van Ornam, Organist at RedeemerLutheran Church in Richmond, VA withChristine Ertell, Flutist & George Pavelis, Oboist

Saturday, December 26Christmas Organ Recital - Rebecca Davy, MusicDirector at Bruton Parish

Tuesday, December 29Christmas Organ Recital - Dr. David Billings,Director of Music at Fox Chapel PresbyterianChurch in Pittsburgh, PA

Thursday, December 31Christmas Organ Recital - Nathan Lively,Organist at Holy Trinity Lutheran Churchin Kingsport, TN

Saturday, January 2, 2015Seasonal Organ Recital - Carina Sturdy,Organist from Williamsburg, VA

Historic Organ RecitalsThe College of William & Mary10am @ Wren Chapel

Thursday, December 3 - Rebecca DavyFriday, December 4 - Sarah BlandSaturday, December 5 - Rebecca DavyMonday, December 7 - Rebecca DavyTuesday, December 8 - Sarah BlandThursday, December 10 - Rebecca DavyFriday, December 11 - Thomas MarshallSaturday, December 12 - Rebecca DavyMonday, December 14 - Rebecca DavyThursday, December 17 - Sarah BlandFriday, December 18 - Thomas MarshallSaturday, December 19 - Rebecca DavyMonday, December 21 - Rebecca DavyThursday, December 24 - Rebecca DavySaturday, December 26 - Rebecca DavyMonday, December 28 - Rebecca DavyTuesday, December 29 - Sarah BlandWednesday, December 30 - Thomas MarshallThursday, December 31 - Rebecca DavySaturday, January 2 - Rebecca Davy

A HOLIDAY CHORAL CONCERT - TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 @ 8PM

Bruton Parish Choirs & Orchestra - Rebecca Davy, Director - Dr. JanEl Will, Organist

By Alan Bullard & Gloria by VivaldiO Come, Emmanuel

HOLIDAY HANDBELL & ORGAN CONCERT

Tuesday, December 3 at 8 pm

Bruton Parish Tarpley RingersRebecca Davy, Director & Dr. JanEl Will, Organist

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By Bryant Cureton

The Bruton Parish Shop is a wonderful asset tothe Parish. Over the past 20 years, the work ofmany volunteers, together with manager CarolWeaver and her staf f, has resulted incontributions to the mission and outreachprograms of the Parish totaling well over $2million. In recent years, however, the Shop hasfaced significant changes that have led to steadyreductions in the amounts that it has been ableto provide for outreach. The decline in totalsales has reflected the downward trend inWilliamsburg tourism and changes in the natureof retail, from the rise of e-commerce to alteredbuying habits. Meanwhile, it has becomeincreasingly diff icult to fill the volunteerassignments that the Shop, in its currentconfiguration, requires.

The Shop Committee has been wrestlingwith these new realities and has been seekingways to assure that the Shop continues to be avibrant part of the Parish's ministry in the yearsahead. We have become convinced that tryingto keep everything as it is, perhaps with a fewminor tweaks, is neither realistic nor in the bestinterest of the Parish or the Shop. After monthsof study and deliberation, the Committee hasproposed to the Vestry-and the Vestry hasapproved-a set of changes we hope will positionthe Shop as an important element of a broaderapproach to serving visitors and parishionersand secure its future into the coming years.

In brief, the approach we have proposedwill:

o Refresh the Shop's design and inventory,with an updated appearance and a greateremphasis on items that support the spiritual lifeof visitors and parishioners;

o Rescale the Shop to a more efficientfootprint that can be operated with less overheadand fewer volunteers;

o Refocus the Shop as a component of alarger concept — a "heritage center" that willprovide a space where visitors are invited tolearn of the Bruton Parish story throughhistorical displays, genealogical tools, and otherresources that support the work of our Guidesand the Friends of Bruton.

The Shop will continue to contribute its netproceeds to the Parish's outreach efforts. Theoverall project, however, will serve a largermission of engaging our many visitors moremeaningfully. Thus the Shop's success will bemeasured not only by dollars raised, but alsoby the other ways it serves as, in the words ofits original mission statement, "an extension ofthe mission and ministry of Bruton ParishChurch."

Many details have yet to be worked out,and it is not yet clear how rapidly we will beable to accomplish this transition. But we arecommitted to finding a path forward that honorsthe successes of the past by adapting to newconditions and serving in fresh ways. Webelieve the approach we have proposed hasexciting potential. As always, our loyalvolunteers will be at the heart of our efforts,and we very much appreciate their continuingdedication. The full text of our proposal to theVestry — a 14-page document — can be foundby visiting http://bit.ly/1YfkDFz. Printedcopies can also be found on reserve in theHennage Library and at the counter in the Shop.

Members of the Bruton Parish ShopCommittee:

Lianne BollerBryant Cureton, ChairKathy Harper, Vice ChairSteve HibbittsKris MagnussonPatti MagnussonLeith MullalyDiane RobertsonJean WintersFr. Epperson, ex officioCarol Weaver, ex officioNancy Nelson, ex officio

A Message from the Bruton Parish Shop Committee

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Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDWilliamsburg, VA

Permit No. 13

The Most Revd

Michael Bruce CurryPresiding Bishop & Primate

pboffice@episcopalchurch.org

The Rt. Revd Herman Hollerith IVBishop, Diocese of Southern Virginia

bishop@diosova.org

The Revd Christopher L. EppersonRector, cepperson@brutonparish.org

The Revd Charles A. Robinson, Vicarcrobinson@brutonparish.org

The Rev’d Tyler L. MontgomeryAssociate Rector & College Chaplain

tmontgomery@brutonparish.org

Meghan BrewerCoordinator of Children’s & Youth

Formation, mbrewer@brutonparish.org

Rebecca Davy, Music Director & Organistbdavy@brutonparish.org

Dr. JanEl B. Will, Organistjwill@brutonparish.org

James DarlingChoirmaster-Organist Emeritus

Hilary Cooley, Communications DirectorChronicle Editor/Publicationshcooley@brutonparish.org

Christine Britton, Parish Life Coordinatorcbritton@brutonparish.org

Dudley Hoyle, Comptrollerdhoyle@brutonparish.org

Alan MacDonald, Financial Assistantamacdonald@brutonparish.org

Mike Wanless, Facilities Managermwanless@brutonparish.org

Ronald Cotman, Parish House Sexton

Ike Turner, Weekend Sexton

Roy St. Amour, Church Sexton

Carol Weaver, Shop Managerbpcshop@brutonparish.org

Laura Paolicelli, Shop Assistant

Nancy Nelson, Shop Financial Assistant nnelson@brutonparish.org

www.brutonparish.org

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY

Pastoral Care CoordinatorsMonday through Friday, 10am-2pmPCM@brutonparish.org757-645-2050

Stephen MinistryCharlie Clapper & Mary Jean Hurst757-220-2087 confidential

Parish NurseSylvia Sabaparishnurse@brutonparish.org757-258-4503

Pastoral Emergencies

Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pmCall 757-345-2250 directlyor call the church office at757-229-2891

After 5pm, call the church officeand choose Option 6. If necessary,please leave your name, telephonenumber and brief message, and theclergy-on-call will return your callas soon as possible.

Parking & Church Ceiling RepairsBy Rick Boye, Property Coordinator

Church Ceiling Repairs in JanuaryWe will be completing the repairs to the churchceiling beginning January 4, 2016. This projectwill require scaffolding installed in bothtransepts and the nave. The hundred year oldceiling has begun to sag over time and developcracks. The workmen will be repairing ceilingcracks and fastening the plaster ceiling to thesupport beams. This two-and-a-half weekproject will mean that Sunday services onJanuary 10 will be held in the Parish House.

Parking Near the Parish HouseAs you may know by now, the section of Duke of Gloucester between HenryStreet and Nassau Street will closed to parking for the installation of an icerink. We are able to use a section of the Duke of Gloucester between Nassauand the ice rink for event and meeting parking, but no parking will be allowedbetween Henry Street and the ice rink. Please be aware that vehicles shouldnever enter or exit Duke of Gloucester Street via Henry Street even when therink is not in place, and should always enter and exit via Nassau Street.

Large functions and meetings at the Parish House will be able to use thesmall section of the Duke of Gloucester between Nassau and the ice rink, thenmust continue on the church side of Duke of Gloucester leaving ample roomfor emergency vehicles to enter and exit Duke of Gloucester at Nassau Street.Please do not park on Nassau Street. Contact Mike Wanless, Facilities Manager,if you have any questions (mwanless@brutonparish.org).

Contributions Due by Year-EndBy Dudley Hoyle, Comptroller

In order for your contribution to be counted as a 2015 contribution for taxpurposes, it must be either physically in the Parish House by close of businesson Thursday, December 31, or postmarked no later than midnight on the31st. Payments made outside of these parameters will be posted to your 2015pledge payment but will appear on the first quarter 2016 contributions statementand will count for tax purposes as a 2016 contribution. If you have any questions,please contact me (757-229-2891 or email dhoyle@brutonparish.org).

Article submissions are due the 10th of each month and may be edited for length and content.

Bruton Parish Church, P.O. Box 3520, Williamsburg, VA 23187-3520 757-229-2891 Fax: 757-221-0290