From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters:...

12
St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church Sudbury, Massachusetts April 2015 From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson O n Palm Sunday, during the shared reading of the Passion Gospel according to Mark, we heard the episode of the woman who anoints Jesus with costly nard. Judas objects, claiming that the ointment should have been sold and the proceeds given to the poor. Jesus responds that she has done a beautiful thing for him, anointing his body beforehand for its burial. He remarks to Judas, “You always have the poor with you, and you can show kindness to them whenever you wish; but you will not always have me.” (Mark 14:3-9) After the 11 AM service that morning, John McNeill, who read the lines of Jesus, wondered whether Jesus’ remark to Judas was a lament or an accusation. Franciscan priest Richard Rohr suggests that Jesus’s words come from the Book of Deuteronomy (15:11): “Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore command you, ‘Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land.’” This verse from Deuteronomy is in the context of a chapter section on what’s known as the year of release, the so-called sabbatical year commandment for the remission of debts, especially for the poor. The implication is that if God’s will were fully obeyed, there would be no poverty, but until that time comes, there will always be poor people. Thus, the commandment for the remission of debts every seven years remains in force. If Rohr is correct, and I think he is, Jesus’ reference to Deuteronomy 15:11 has an element of both of John McNeill’s suggested possibilities. Jesus’ remark indicates both a lament and a judgment over how God’s people do not take proper care of the poor. To that extent, Jesus at least in part affirms Judas’ observation that the poor need more care than they are getting. Jesus is also saying to Judas that, given the perpetual neglect of the poor, there is no end to poverty in sight. However, time is running out for Jesus. So the woman’s act of devotion is appropriate. She will not have another opportunity to show this kindness to the Lord of life on his way to death. Rohr points out that the passage from Mark has been misused in the history of the church to claim that Jesus has a preference for piety over social justice, when in fact devotion to God and devotion to the poor are inextricably linked. One cannot overlook one for the other. Showing love to God (piety) cannot be separated from caring for the poor and working to undo the circumstances and entrenched systems that mediate against elevation from poverty (social justice). We show love to God both by worship and by caring for the poor. Both endeavors require sacrifice. Both endeavors require us to give of ourselves in time, talent, and treasure. Many of us have a tendency to be drawn to one sort of sacrifice over the other. Which sacrifice, attending to worship and your own devotional life or caring and working for the poor is more difficult for you or more appealing to you? Does one activity elicit more resistance that the other? Does one activity draw you more than the other? How do you balance the two? What is your experience of one or the other? How can the church best support you in your efforts to address these linked endeavors summed up in the two great commandments: “You shall love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, strength and mind; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”? I invite you to ponder these questions as the Easter season unfolds, noting when and how the God of love and justice nudges you toward one expression or the other and, then, how you respond. Barbara Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid., p. 127

Transcript of From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters:...

Page 1: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church Sudbury, Massachusetts April 2015

From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson

O n Palm Sunday, during the shared reading of the Passion Gospel according

to Mark, we heard the episode of the woman who anoints Jesus with costly

nard. Judas objects, claiming that the ointment should have been sold and the

proceeds given to the poor. Jesus responds that she has done a beautiful thing

for him, anointing his body beforehand for its burial. He remarks to Judas, “You

always have the poor with you, and you can show kindness to them whenever

you wish; but you will not always have me.” (Mark 14:3-9)

After the 11 AM service that morning, John McNeill, who read the lines of Jesus, wondered

whether Jesus’ remark to Judas was a lament or an accusation. Franciscan priest Richard Rohr suggests that Jesus’s

words come from the Book of Deuteronomy (15:11): “Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I

therefore command you, ‘Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land.’”

This verse from Deuteronomy is in the context of a chapter section on what’s known as the year of release, the so-called

sabbatical year commandment for the remission of debts, especially for the poor. The implication is that if God’s will

were fully obeyed, there would be no poverty, but until that time comes, there will always be poor people. Thus, the

commandment for the remission of debts every seven years remains in force.

If Rohr is correct, and I think he is, Jesus’ reference to Deuteronomy 15:11 has an element of both of John McNeill’s

suggested possibilities. Jesus’ remark indicates both a lament and a judgment over how God’s people do not take proper

care of the poor. To that extent, Jesus at least in part affirms Judas’ observation that the poor need more care than they

are getting. Jesus is also saying to Judas that, given the perpetual neglect of the poor, there is no end to poverty in sight.

However, time is running out for Jesus. So the woman’s act of devotion is appropriate. She will not have another

opportunity to show this kindness to the Lord of life on his way to death.

Rohr points out that the passage from Mark has been misused in the history of the church to claim that Jesus has a

preference for piety over social justice, when in fact devotion to God and devotion to the poor are inextricably linked.

One cannot overlook one for the other. Showing love to God (piety) cannot be separated from caring for the poor and

working to undo the circumstances and entrenched systems that mediate against elevation from poverty (social justice).

We show love to God both by worship and by caring for the poor.

Both endeavors require sacrifice. Both endeavors require us to give of ourselves in time, talent, and treasure. Many of us

have a tendency to be drawn to one sort of sacrifice over the other. Which sacrifice, attending to worship and your own

devotional life or caring and working for the poor is more difficult for you or more appealing to you? Does one activity

elicit more resistance that the other? Does one activity draw you more than the other?

How do you balance the two? What is your experience of one or the other? How can the church best support you in your

efforts to address these linked endeavors summed up in the two great commandments: “You shall love the Lord your

God with all of your heart, soul, strength and mind; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”?

I invite you to ponder these questions as the Easter season unfolds, noting when and how the God of love and justice

nudges you toward one expression or the other and, then, how you respond.

Barbara

Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid., p. 127

Page 2: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

The Mantle March 2015

2

Vestry Notes by Sam Truex, Member of the Vestry

T he Vestry met in person for 2 hours on the evening of

March 16th for its regularly-scheduled monthly

discussion.

The first major topic we discussed is the issue of

fundraising within St. E’s, particularly for activities that

form the heart of formation for our teen youth, including

pilgrimage, City Mission and Appalachia Service Project

(ASP). These trips taken during the summer provide

critical spiritual fellowship and outreach experiences for

our youth. While no decisions were made, there was

general agreement that these are important activities to

fund and that the fundraising for these and many other

activities throughout the year should be coordinated in a

better way to ensure that we are both prioritizing well and

approaching our congregation for funds in a thoughtful

way. The vestry plans to discuss this important topic

again and will likely reach out to the congregation for

input.

In addition to reviewing the Rector’s and Assistant

Rector’s reports, we discussed the review of insurance for

St. E’s that was conducted by Michael Comer and the

Finance Committee. The Vestry approved the

recommendation of the Finance Committee to continue

with the incumbent insurance provider with some minor

changes that will reduce the cost to St. E’s.

We reviewed the Treasurer’s report, noting that recent

donations fulfilling 2014 pledge shortfalls have been

helpful to the financial status. We are in a solid position

relative to budget currently, though it was noted that the

February snow plowing bill has not yet been received; it is

expected to be large. The Vestry also approved a

resolution that had been reviewed at our previous

meeting. This allows for any 2 people from a list of 5

Vestry members to authorize activities establishing and

managing St. E’s endowment accounts. The Vestry also

approved the Parochial Report for 2014 prepared by

Cheryl Franke and Peg Scarlata, which is an account of

attendance, active membership, worship services, etc. that

is due to the Diocese each March.

The next meeting of the Vestry is scheduled for Monday,

April 13.

Sam

What is Vestry Retreat?

Spring is truly around the corner! But, as we kicked off our new vestry with the annual Vestry

Retreat on March 7, snow was still piled high around us. We are delighted to welcome new members Janice Darias, Samantha Truex, Eric Becker, Sara Kimble, and Jake Fisher, along with new co-warden Michael Comer. These welcome additions to an existing cast of personalities and contributors, I must say, make this vestry a lively crew! Someone asked me “What is the retreat all about? What are you doing in there all day?”

The purpose of the Vestry Retreat is multifold. Despite Saint Elizabeth’s medium size, we have a wide range of

parishioners, activities and ambitions. We try to reflect a good cross section of the parish in the vestry membership,

which helps cover a number of different views and perspectives. So, it is important that we get to know each other as a

leadership team, and mutually understand our role, responsibilities and mission for the upcoming year.

This involves review of supporting documents critical to Saint Elizabeth’s formation such as our Bylaws, which is the

essential governing document on church administration. We also spend time discussing calendar items, when we meet,

and how we conduct our meetings; time discussing our own process. Also included this year were some fun learning

elements such as an icebreaker of “Vestry Member Bingo” led by Janice, as well as a Vestry Person Of the Day (VPOD)

duties “Treasure Hunt” led by Angela Crocker.

(Continued on page 3)

Wardens’ Words by Walter Morgan, Co-Warden

Page 3: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

March 2015 The Mantle

3

Treasurer Cheryl Franke gave a tutorial on making sense of financial statements, followed by a longer term financial

discussion led by Michael Comer on the new 5-year planning process. Michael also led a review and discussion of the

numerous committees that form the core volunteer groups from ushers and acolytes to building & grounds, finance

and outreach - over 20 committees - that make St Elizabeth’s go. The outcome of this discussion is a basic

understanding of just how much is going on at our church - a lot more than one would imagine—and almost

impossible for just a few people to know. “It takes a village”. We also begin the process of identifying vestry liaisons

for committees, who will help the vestry understand each group’s plans and needs.

Since our mission here ultimately begins and ends with our individual and collective spiritual journey in Christ, we

make some time for prayer and spiritual reflection. This year, the reflective portion of the retreat was led by Barbara

and Jack, who wove essential elements of Sunday’s worship service into the agenda, concluding in the sharing of Holy

Communion.

We also reviewed the salient goals and objectives for 2015, which we enumerated at the Annual Meeting. We are

always about parish spiritual growth, Christian education and formation, staying solvent, and striving for continuous

improvement in our weekly services.

Additional goals this year include:

· The overall design phase and consensus for the expansion and enhancement of our worship space as outlined

in the Comprehensive Campaign

· Integration of Stephen Ministries into the life of Saint Elizabeth’s

· Implementation of the 5-year financial plan

· Actual investment of our endowment funds with a fund administrator and establishment of the requisite

administrative processes

Please note that 3 out 4 of these additional goals stem from the TogetherNow Comprehensive Campaign, goals we

would not have without the generosity of our membership.

You will hear more about these throughout the year, and your vestry is an important source of information and

communication about these.

Other on-going critical issues and opportunities inevitably arise during the course of the year and the vestry needs to

be ready for them.

If you have any questions about what the vestry does, please contact me, or Michael Comer - co-warden, or any vestry

member.

Walter

(Continued from page 2)

Volunteer Opportunities @ St. E’s

St. Elizabeth's has a proud history and culture of volunteerism and service.

We invite you to explore one or more of the various volunteer activities

available across our parish. Click here to see how you can help:

http://st-elizabeths.org/volunteer.shtml

Thank you for making a difference!

Page 4: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

The Mantle March 2015

4

From the Organ Bench by Mary Sue Willie, Music Director

Safe Church Policy

at St. Elizabeth’s Church

All volunteers working with infants, children, adolescents, young adults and at risk parishioners are required to

complete either an online or group Safe Church training certified by the Diocese of Massachusetts. Online training is

available, at no cost, to all volunteers at St. Elizabeth’s. You must also have had a CORI check done within the past 3

years. Please contact Peg in the office at [email protected] to get certified.

The music of our liturgical offerings is an important part of our experience of Palm Sunday,

Holy Week and Easter. Palm Sunday with the entry into Jerusalem illustrated by our dancers

and choir singing a 10th century plainsong version of "All Glory, Laud and Honor" accompanied

by hand chimes and hand drum opens the musical portion of the service. Then the dramatic

presentation of the Passion Gospel with narrator, readers and percussion ending the service after

which we depart in silence.

Maundy Thursday we sing as we participate in the foot-washing, the choir sings "Ave Verum" by Sir Edward

Elgar and again during the stripping of the altar at the end of the service after which we again depart in

silence. The solemn Good Friday service with a capella singing and then on Saturday, we begin the Easter

celebration with the Liturgy of Light with the church school children bringing altar furnishings and light back into

the worship space. This year we will, of necessity, have that celebration in the church due to snow still preventing

our use of the Chapel. Finally, on Easter Day, our creative worship team has designed a beginning to the service

that will begin in semi-darkness and the stripped altar from Maundy Thursday night, with a haunting violin solo,

played by Bonnie Brown. Then as the lights begin to come up, the Youth Choir will sing "Now the Green Blade

Riseth" arranged by Alastair Cassels-Brown, during which the altar guild and creative worship team will bring the

altar furnishings, candles and lilies. As the church returns to the joyful news of resurrection, the music becomes

celebratory and the final 'hymn' will be "The Hallelujah Chorus" from the Messiah (Handel) with copies of the score

distributed to the congregation followed by a boisterous postlude with brass and violin.

Palm Sunday we once again have Meagan Powley, as our choreographer. Carol Davies on the hand drum and then

providing the percussion for the Passion Gospel.

Our special musicians on Easter include: Bonnie Brown, violin; Andrew Briasco-Stewart, flute; Clarissa Briasco-

Stewart, cello; Thomas Small, Trumpet; Tim Howard, Trombone; and Adam Howard, Saxophone.

Graham Daley will be the soloist on the second Sunday of Easter (April 12th) singing "I Know that My Redeemer

Liveth" from the Messiah.

Then looking ahead, we will be the hosts for our local churches in the Deanery on Ascension Day, Thursday, May

14th. We hope you will save the date and join us for this service featuring the choirs of Acton, Concord, Lincoln

and Sudbury who will gather here to sing this lovely service.

Mary Sue

[email protected]

Page 5: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

March 2015 The Mantle

5

Transitional Atrium: Susan Dewey, Sarah Duffy, Eric Becker

Level I: Ruth Griesel, Suzie Kornblum, Susan DeMichele

Level II: Kihm Sanders, Emmy Cole, Mara Huston, Derek Zurn

Level III: Kris Wile, Lisa Kenney, Angela Crocker

Mark Your Calendar!

There are two services coming up that will be led by children in the COGS program – Liturgy of Light

and an Instructed Eucharist. Both are deeply meaningful for the children and adults alike. We hope you

can be a part of these.

Liturgy of Light – Saturday, April 4 at 5:00 p.m.

The Liturgy of Light is led by children in the Level II atrium. Held in the Chapel (or possible the church due to the snow)

on the eve of Easter, this service helps the children leading it and those in attendance understand and acknowledge the

importance and holiness of the Paschal candle. Please gather at the church at 4:45. If we are able to hold the service in the

Chapel, we will all walk together there. Otherwise, we will begin at the church. This is a lovely way to prepare for the

joyous Easter service the next day.

Instructed Eucharist – Sunday, May 3rd at the 10 am service

The Level III children have been busy learning about the origins of the Eucharist, the different parts of the liturgy, and

preparing their Instructed Eucharist. Traditionally, this celebration of the Eucharist marks the end of the COGS program

for our fifth and sixth graders.

On May 3, the students will guide the parish through the Eucharist celebration, describing the meaning of each prayer,

reading, and hymn. They will also be writing the sermon and the prayers of the people for that day.

The students take tremendous pride in sharing their knowledge and understanding with their parish family. We hope

you will be able to participate in this wonderful service.

Susan

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Atrium News by Susan Berry

SERVES at the

MIRACLE KITCHEN

March 10th L to R standing: Chris Hagger, Pat Coffin (St. E’s Soup Kitchen Coordinator for March), Jim

DeMichele, Josh Liberman, Michael Comer, Matt Chafe, Paul Grous. L to R squatting: David

Varner, Larry St. George

Page 6: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

29

Palm

Sunday

Spring B

ask

ets

are

giv

en o

ut

9:0

0 A

M H

oly

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

9:1

5 A

M C

hurc

h S

chool (C

OG

S, Rite 1

3, J2

A,

& Y

AC)

10

:30

AM

Youth

Choir R

ehears

al (d

irect

ly

aft

er

the 1

0 A

M s

erv

ice)

30

Jack

is

out

of

the o

ffic

e

11

:00

AM

-

12

:00

PM

Sudbury

Senio

r Cente

r Aero

bic

s

(PH

)

7:0

0 P

M G

irls

Soft

ball

Coach

es

Meeting (

PH

)

31

10

:00

AM

Bib

le S

tudy

(MPR

)

11

:00

AM

Sta

ff M

eeting

(Barb

ara

's O

ffic

e)

1

7:3

0 A

M W

ard

ens

Meeting (

MPR

)

2

Maundy T

hurs

day

10

:00

AM

Tai Chi (P

H)

3:0

0 P

M H

ealin

g &

Pra

yer

Gro

up M

eeting-C

ance

lled

7:3

0 P

M H

oly

Euch

arist

II

-

Churc

h

9:0

0 P

M C

hoir R

ehears

al (M

PR

)

3

Good F

riday

7:3

0 P

M G

ood F

riday

Liturg

y (

Churc

h)

4

5:0

0 P

M L

iturg

y o

f

Lig

ht

(Churc

h)

5

East

er

Sunday

9:0

0 A

M H

oly

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

9:4

5 A

M N

o C

hurc

h S

chool (C

OG

S, R

ite 1

3,

J2A, &

YAC)

11

:00

AM

Holy

Euch

arist

II

(Churc

h)

11

:15

AM

Youth

Choir R

ehears

al CAN

CELLED

6

Off

ice C

lose

d

7

10

:00

AM

Bib

le S

tudy

CAN

CELLED

11

:00

AM

Sta

ff M

eeting

(Barb

ara

's O

ffic

e)

7:0

0 P

M F

inance

Com

mit-

tee M

eeting (

MPR

)

7:0

0 P

M K

nitting G

roup

8

7:3

0 A

M W

ard

ens

Meeting (

MPR

)

7:1

5 P

M E

venin

g B

ible

Stu

dy (

MPR)

9

10

:00

AM

Tai Chi (P

H)

3:0

0 P

M H

ealin

g &

Pra

yer

Gro

up M

eeting (

J2A r

oom

)

7:0

0 P

M C

hoir R

ehears

al

(Cance

lled)

10

1

1

10

:30

AM

Deanery

Confirm

ation S

erv

ice

(St.

Andre

w's

Churc

h,

79 D

ente

n R

d, W

elle

s-

ley)

12

Spring B

ask

ets

are

retu

rned t

o S

t. E

lizabeth

's

8:0

0 A

M H

oly

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

9:4

5 A

M C

hurc

h S

chool (C

OG

S, Rite 1

3,&

J2A)

10

:00

AM

Holy

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

11

:15

AM

Youth

Choir R

ehears

al (d

irect

ly

aft

er

the 1

0 A

M s

erv

ice)

13

6:5

0 P

M V

est

ry M

eet-

ing (

MPR

)

14

10

:00

AM

Bib

le S

tudy

(MPR

)

11

:00

AM

Sta

ff M

eeting

(Barb

ara

's O

ffic

e)

6:0

0 P

M M

iracl

e K

itch

en

(Fra

min

gham

)

15

7:3

0 A

M W

ard

ens

Meeting (

MPR

)

16

May m

antle a

rtic

les

are

due

10

:00

AM

Tai Chi (P

H)

3:0

0 P

M H

ealin

g &

Pra

yer

Gro

up M

eeting (

J2A r

oom

)

7:0

0 P

M C

hoir R

ehears

al (M

PR

)

17

1

8

11

:00

AM

Funera

l

(Churc

h)

19

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

8:0

0 A

M H

oly

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

9:4

5 A

M N

o C

hurc

h S

chool (C

OG

S, R

ite 1

3,

J2A, &

YAC)

10

:00

AM

Holy

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

11

:15

AM

Youth

Choir R

ehears

al (d

irect

ly

aft

er

the 1

0 A

M s

erv

ice)

20

Patr

iots

Day -

Off

ice

Clo

sed

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

21

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

10

:00

AM

Bib

le S

tudy

(MPR

)

12

:00

PM

Sta

ff M

eeting

(Barb

ara

's O

ffic

e)

22

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

7:3

0 A

M W

ard

ens

Meeting (

MPR

)

11

:00

AM

- 1

2:0

0 P

M

Sudbury

Senio

r Cente

r

Aero

bic

s (P

H)

23

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

10

:00

AM

Tai Chi (P

H)

3:0

0 P

M H

ealin

g &

Pra

yer

Gro

up M

eeting (

J2A r

oom

)

7:0

0 P

M C

hoir R

ehears

al (M

PR

)

24

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

11

:00

AM

-

12

:00

PM

Sudbury

Senio

r Cente

r Aero

bic

s

(PH

)

25

Sch

ool Vaca

tion W

eek

26

8:0

0 A

M H

oly

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

8:4

5 A

M C

OG

S M

onth

ly M

eeting (

MPR)

9:4

5 A

M C

hurc

h S

chool (C

OG

S, Rite 1

3,&

J2A)

10

:00

AM

Holy

Euch

arist

II

- Churc

h

11

:15

AM

Youth

Choir R

ehears

al (d

irect

ly

aft

er

the 1

0 A

M s

erv

ice)

27

Barb

ara

& J

ack

at

Cle

r-

gy C

onfe

rence

28

Barb

ara

& J

ack

at

Cle

rgy

Confe

rence

10

:00

AM

Bib

le S

tudy

(MPR

)

29

Barb

ara

& J

ack

at

Cle

r-

gy C

onfe

rence

7:3

0 A

M W

ard

ens

Meeting-

Cance

lled

30

10

:00

AM

Tai Chi (P

H)

11

:00

AM

Sta

ff M

eeting

(Barb

ara

's O

ffic

e)

3:0

0 P

M H

ealin

g &

Pra

yer

Gro

up M

eeting (

J2A r

oom

)

7:0

0 P

M C

hoir R

ehears

al (M

PR

)

1

2

AP

RIL 2

01

5

Su

nd

ay

Mo

nd

ay

Tu

esd

ay

We

dn

esd

ay

Th

urs

da

y

Fri

da

y

Sa

turd

ay

Page 7: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

Kitc

hen

Ang

el fo

r : A

pril

Bet

sy W

allin

gfo

rd

Mir

acle

Kit

chen

Co

ord

inat

or:

Apr

il 2n

d

Mau

ndy

Thu

rsda

y

Apr

il 4t

h

Goo

d F

ri-

day

Apr

il 5t

h

Eas

ter S

unda

y

Apr

il 12

th

The

Sec

ond

Sun

day

of

Eas

ter

Apr

il 19

th

The

Thi

rd

Sun

day

of

Eas

ter

Apr

il 26

th

The

Fou

rth

Sun

day

of

Eas

ter

Euc

h. M

in.

7:3

0 P

M

Stev

e D

avie

s

9 A

M S

teve

Dav

ies

Kie

rste

n V

arn

er

11

AM

Stu

art

Ham

ilto

n

Jim

Pet

ers

8 A

M J

oh

n B

rack

ett

10

AM

Jak

e Fi

sher

Ia

n S

pri

ngs

teel

8 A

M J

im N

ewto

n

10

AM

Bet

sy W

allin

gfo

rd

Stu

art

Ham

ilto

n

8 A

M H

arry

Ain

swo

rth

1

0 A

M S

teve

Dav

ies

Lib

by

Ch

afe

Bre

adbe

arer

&

Thi

rd S

tatio

n

9 A

M J

oh

n H

ow

ard

/ C

lerg

y &

Tim

Ho

war

d

11

AM

Lar

ry S

tew

art/

C

lerg

y &

TB

A

Jan

ice

Dar

ias/

C

lerg

y TB

A

M

att

Ch

afe/

C

lerg

y Ji

m P

eter

s

Lec

tor

7:3

0 P

M J

im N

ew

ton

7

:30

PM

Har

ry A

ins-

wo

rth

9

AM

Jo

hn

McN

eill

11

AM

Cra

ig S

taff

ord

El

izab

eth

Web

b

W

alte

r M

org

an

Aco

lyte

7

:30

PM

TB

A

9

AM

Th

e Le

po

rdo

Fam

ily

11

AM

Ric

k W

atso

n

Kie

rste

n V

arn

er

An

dre

w W

ilkin

s K

ath

ryn

Kim

ble

Hea

ling

Min

iste

r

Stu

art

Pea

se

Jan

e G

rah

am

Man

dy

Flem

ing

V.P

.O.D

.

9

AM

Mic

hae

l Co

mer

1

1 A

M W

alte

r M

org

an

Eric

Bec

ker

Jan

ice

Dar

ias

Sam

Tru

ex

Ush

ers

9 A

M R

ich

ard

Cas

s R

ay C

on

sid

ine

1

1 A

M B

ob

& P

eggy

Daw

-so

n

Bo

nn

ie P

ow

ell

Joh

n R

om

ain

D

ave

Var

ner

Te

rry

Ro

urk

e

Pat

Co

ffin

TB

A

Alta

r G

uild

7

:30

PM

C

lare

Per

ry &

Ter

ry

Ro

urk

e

7:3

0 P

M

Cla

re P

erry

& T

erry

R

ou

rke

9 A

M T

err

y R

ou

rke

1

1 A

M C

lare

Per

ry

8 A

M C

lare

Per

ry

10

AM

Cla

re P

erry

8

AM

Te

rry

Ro

urk

e

10

AM

Ter

ry R

ou

rke

8

AM

Cla

re P

erry

1

0 A

M C

lare

Per

ry

Cof

fee

Ser

ver

Bet

sy W

allin

gfo

rd

Dia

na

Pea

se

Kri

stin

Fis

her

Su

san

DeM

ich

ele

Page 8: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

The Mantle March 2015

8

J2A Spring Update!

The J2A Class is gearing up for the Deanery Confirmation service on April 11th and Summer 2015 Pilgrimage, and we

want to share with you what we have been doing to get to this point.

The J2A class kicked off in September with a lock-in at the Church. It included cooking,

games, a movie, some journaling about the coming year, and a candlelight service in the

chapel. It was a great way to set the tone for an important year: one of reflection, prayer,

and mindfulness.

Much of the time since then has been focused on planning our Pilgrimage. We are so

looking forward to a week of spiritual deepening and awakening in Oregon. We are

working with a non-profit Pilgrimage guide company called Wonder Voyage and are

excited about the itinerary that we have developed with them. We will be finding God in

remote and beautiful wilderness and landscapes, as well as serving a local community

and working to deepen our bond with each other.

Pilgrimage costs money, so our planning has included fundraising. The annual Super

Bowl chili fundraiser in January was a great success. Students had fun filling orders,

making cookies and cornbread, and helping our “customers.” The J2A class also held a very successful coffee hour bake

sale earlier in the winter. We are grateful for the generosity of the congregation in support of these efforts.

In recent months we have been focused on Confirmation. The Confirmation classes (six in total, run by the clergy) were

well attended. To fulfill their service requirement the youth cooked for and served at the Salvation Army Miracle

Kitchen. They also went to the Barbara Harris Camp for an overnight confirmation retreat organized and run by the

Diocesan Youth Council, a team of high school students (including our own Libby Chafe) from Episcopal Churches all

over the diocese. The retreat allowed them the opportunity to learn more about what confirmation means, to meet other

students from around the diocese, and to participate in activities and discussions related to this big step in their

spiritual lives.

The 20 students in our class who wish to be confirmed and have completed the requirements will be confirmed by

Bishop Gayle Harris on Saturday, April 11th at 10:30 AM at St. Andrew’s in Wellesley. We are so proud of the work

these young men and women have done to get to this point.

Looking forward, the J2A class still has some fundraising needs and plans. In addition to another carwash in June (the

last one raised over $1000!), we will launch our envelope fundraiser later this month. Last year, we were able to raise

$9,900 for the ASP/Pilgrimage fund this way, and the parents, whose idea it was to use this approach, were grateful for

the reprieve from organizing and running an auction. The students, for their part, spend time to prepare the envelopes,

make a bulletin board display, attend coffee hours to be available for envelope collection and return, and will take time

to write thank you notes to our wonderful donors.

We feel this fundraiser is a great way to embrace all levels of giving, since the envelopes range in value from $1 to $150.

We will also have blank envelopes if you don’t see the amount you’d like to give. Trips like ASP and Pilgrimage cost

+/- $25,000, and we truly appreciate your support and love, which allow these remarkable programs to continue.

We are so proud of our youth. They are all incredibly busy with demanding academic pressures, family obligations and

extracurricular activities. They have made the time and commitment to their faith and to our church community to

participate in all of these fundraisers, classes, overnights, and service and have accomplished so much this year.

Congratulations J2Aers!

Faithfully submitted,

Graham Daley

We are so proud of our youth.

They are all incredibly busy

with demanding academic

pressures, family obligations

and extracurricular activities.

They have made the time and

commitment to their faith and

to our church community to

participate in all of these

fundraisers, classes,

overnights, and service and

have accomplished so much

this year.

Page 9: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

March 2015 The Mantle

9

Jim Parker, Allison Boyle, Greg Wilkins, Ildi Morris, Rick Watson, Douglas Pratt,

Eric Becker, Rebecca Acevedo, Abigail Tinsley, Freddy Collins, Greg Friedholm, Bert

Drop, Christine Howard, Dan Knaul, Morgan Davies, Mary Sue Willie, Jim

DeMichele, Harris Bendel, Mike Perisho, Angela Crocker, Evan Acevedo, Tito

Acevedo, Harry Ainsworth, Carl Lepordo, Tom Rourke, Emily Knaul, Larry St.

George, Katie Walker, Lauryn Brown, Abigayle Sheldon, Jack Walker, George

Stowell, Louise Bendel, Kris Wile, Devin Walker, Grace Keilen, Bob Dawson, Jim

Cole, Declan Zurn, Zachary Blake, James Wagner, Andrew Liberman, Evan White,

Matt Lucarelli, Graham Daley, and Sam Crocker

Happiest of Birthdays to you!

As suburban parents, we have faith that our loved ones will be safe

wherever they are during their day and will come home later. Urban

parents don’t always have the same faith. Gun violence affects urban

families on a regular basis. According to the Boston Globe, 52 people

were killed in the city in 2014. This was an increase from 41 in 2013.

These were primarily in Dorchester, Mattapan and Roxbury.

Ever wonder what you could do? Here’s an answer. Join us on

Mother’s Day as we take a bus together from St E’s, walk in the 19th

Annual Mother’s Day Walk for Peace, and show your support for urban families. We’ll enjoy a 3.6 mile walk together

in Dorchester among a crowd of 10,000 walkers.

This walk is organized by the Louis D Brown Peace Institute which provides services to families of victims and creates

an anti-violence curriculum for K-12 within the Boston Public Schools. Though this event is a fund raiser for the

organization, you do not need to make a donation to participate.

Go to St. E’s website to register to join us. More logistical details will be available later in April.

Please join us. Contact Mara Huston ([email protected]) or Jack Clark ([email protected]) with any

questions.

Matthew 5:9: "Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they shall be called children of God."

2014 St. E’s Walk for Peace Team

Page 10: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

The Mantle March 2015

10

Calling all knitters and crocheters

(& those who would like to learn)!

The Knitting Group's next gathering is on Tuesday, April 7th at 7pm in the J2A room. Each

member is working on a project for their charity of choice. Knitting tutorials and assistance

are available from more experienced members. We hope you can join is! If you have any

questions, contact Cheryl Franke ([email protected]) or Jack Clark

([email protected]).

It's Spring Basket Time of Year!

If it’s almost spring it’s time for St E’s parishioners to once

again think about helping out with the Outreach

Committee’s annual spring basket delivery project. For

numerous years St. E’s has had many individuals and

families who have stepped up enthusiastically to fill and/

or deliver goody-laden spring baskets to Sudbury families

in need. This year we’re planning on providing ~30

families each with a spring basket.

Palm Sunday March 29th: after the 9 and 11 services

empty baskets with a suggested list of contents, a brief

description of recipient family members, and dietary/

allergy restrictions were handed out.

Saturday April 11th (Saturday after Easter): baskets can

be dropped off at St. Elizabeth's timeframe TBA

Sunday April12th: baskets will be due back latest for

delivery after the 10am service. We’ll be making

announcements over the next few weeks to solicit

volunteers to take a basket/s and/or be a delivery driver.

A suggested list of food and everyday supplies will be

provided with each empty basket but you are encouraged

to be creative in your selection of contents as long as they

are able to sit out at room temperature for a few days. It

usually takes parishioners about one hour to get necessary

items to fill the baskets and involving the whole family in

the shopping is a great way for

more people to share in St E’s

Outreach.

For a few families that really

want to have the pleasure of

delivering the baskets and

having a connection with

elders and families in the

community, we’ll be seeking 8-

10 individuals or families to act as basket deliverers. All

the necessary information will be available to aid in the

basket delivery and it usually takes about 90 minutes with

approximately 3-4 baskets. We will make every effort

possible to ensure that the recipients can be home to

receive the baskets. If a basket cannot be delivered, then

the Outreach committee will be responsible for a follow-

up delivery. Filling the baskets and delivering them are

both fun-filled and a spiritually rewarding experience for

all. Please consider being an Outreach volunteer on our

Spring Basket project.

If you have any questions please contact Outreach

Committee members

Lucie St. George, [email protected]

Eric Becker, [email protected]

St. E’s Book Group

The St. E's Book Group is trying a new schedule for 2015. We will meet on Sunday

afternoons following the 10am Sunday Service. The dates may change depending

on consensus of the group. Our next meeting is

May 3rd, 1130 a.m. “Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown

May 31st, 11:30 a.m. “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd

Page 11: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

March 2015 The Mantle

11

The following is an email sent on March 25, 2015, to parishioner Glenn O’Bryan by his daughter, Carolyn, who works in

Montgomery, Alabama, the state’s capitol. It is reprinted here with permission.

My Lunch Hour Today by Carolyn O’Bryan

I thought I'd share my experience at lunch today with all of you. It was the 50th anniversary of the arrival in

Montgomery from Selma and Martin Luther King's speech on the capitol steps. As you know, this is right outside my

office building.

The first picture is of Dr. King's daughter. The other two are from my office window. I took my lunch outside and heard

three speakers. The first was Morris Dees, founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center. He slammed the Governor for

refusing to expand Medicaid. After his speech, he took his seat right next to the Governor.

Then Dr. King's daughter said a few words before reciting her father's

speech that day. It was marvelous. I had never heard the speech in its

entirety. He had given a history lesson on how segregation developed

throughout the south beginning with reconstruction after the Civil War,

through Jim Crow and the present (1960's). Then, he went into how

"normal" needed to end, because "normal" [prevented] negroes from

voting, "normal" resulted in the Rev. James Reed being beaten on the

Edmond Pettis Bridge, and "normal" killed four little girls on a Sunday

morning in Birmingham. Then he went into the "How Long? Not

Long" [and then] reciting "The Battle Hymn of the Republic". It was

grand.

Following Dr. King’s daughter was the daughter of Governor Wallace

apologizing for the actions of her father. She said she was standing on

the steps of the capitol in the place where her father refused to stand 50

years ago.

I couldn't help thinking that "normal" keeps people from getting the health care they need, and "normal" is keeping some

couples from marrying in AL. Hopefully, how long is not long in this state.

I am supervising a social work student this semester, and he stood out there with me in the heat. As we walked in, I told

him that this was why he went into social work. He agreed.

Needless to say, this was a wonderful lunch hour today!

Enjoy the pictures.

Views of the Alabama State Capitol from Carolyn

O’Bryan’s office on the 50th anniversary of the walk

into Montgomery from Selma.

Page 12: From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson 2015 04.pdf · Rohr, Richard Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) p. 127. Ibid.,

St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church invites seekers to share the joys and challenges of a journey of faith. Following the teachings of Jesus Christ and guided by scripture, tradition, and reason, we proclaim by word and action the love of God. We seek to serve and praise Christ in all people by celebrating the greatness of God's creation and all its creatures, helping those in need, and striving for justice and peace in all areas of our common life.

One Morse Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776 978-443-6035

www.st-elizabeths.org

The Rev. Barbara S. Williamson, Rector

[email protected]

The Rev. Jacqueline Clark, Assistant Rector

[email protected]

Mary Sue Willie, Director of Music

[email protected]

Peg Scarlata, Parish Administrator

[email protected]

Walter Morgan and Michael Comer, Co-Wardens

[email protected]

April 2 Maundy Thursday, 7:30pm in the Church

April 3 Good Friday, 7:30pm in the Church

April 4 Liturgy of Light, 5 pm in the Church Gathering Time for at 4:30pm for

the Level II Atrium children who fulfill all the roles in the service.

Parishioners of all ages are invited to attend!

April 5 Easter Sunday, 9am and 11am. Don't forget to wear your Easter hats or

bonnets!

Easter Sunday Bring & Share Breakfast

Join us for a celebratory Easter Breakfast after the 9 AM service on Easter

morning. All are asked to bring something to share, and remember NO

nuts please. Drinks will be provided. All are welcome!

In addition, at the following dates and times Barbara is available to hear confession using the Rite of Reconciliation in

the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer.

Thursday, April 2 between 4:30 and 6:30 PM

Friday, April 3 between 4:30 and 6:30 PM

Saturday, April 4 between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM

Please email Barbara at [email protected] to reserve a time.