L R etters to the omans

6

Inside this issue

What a Sense of

Community 2 JOY Trip 2 The Festival of Lessons

and Carols at Sewanee 3 Notice of Annual Meeting

and Vestry Election 3 Hungry Cats & Dogs 4 Buy Seafood/Save a Life 4 EFM Announcement 4 Wed Night Dinners 4 St. Elizabeth’s Guild 5 Getting a Life &

Letting Go 5 ERD Receives Award 6 Canterbury Club 6 McClains’ Lemonade 7 Christian Ed – Fall

Schedule 7 September Schedules 8 September Calendar 9 July Financial Support 9 CNN Hero 10 Future of Wednesdays 10 Vestry Minutes – June 11 Young/Young-ish Adults 12 St. Peter’s Day 12 EYC Report 13 EYC Calendar 14 Children’s Ministries 15 Parish News 16 Vestry Members

[Through 2008] David Carlton David Harvey III Cheryl Ranwez Keith Summerlin

[Through 2009] Bob Berry Sue Mann, Sr. Warden Leamon Scott Joel Taylor

[Through 2010] Laura Davis Norman Fletcher Nancy Knight Nat Massey

September 2008 Volume 7, No. 37

Letters to the Romans

Rector: The Reverend Roger Ard Associate Rector: The Reverend Janice Bracken Wright Associate Rector: The Reverend Greg Tallant Coordinator of Children’s Ministries: Susan Atkinson Organist: Wanda C. Hillman Choirmaster: Harry Musselwhite Parish Administrator: Terri Borchardt Financial Administrator: Edna Shropshire House and Grounds

Coordinator Sunny Marceau Newsletter Editors: Marny Busbin ([email protected]) and Andye Moss ([email protected]) Church Photographer: Curt Yarbrough Newsletter Layout: Pat Douglas ([email protected])

Everyone had bright smiles after the baptisms of the Massey and Atkinson children on August 13

Nevin Patton V became the fifth generation of that name to be baptized at St. Peter's.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 East Fourth Avenue Rome, GA 30161 706.291.9111 http://stpeters.episcopalatlanta.org


I wanted to write something to thank everyone for their support during my recent surgery. The cards, letters, phone calls, visits, flowers, food, and prayers were very much appreciated. Words can’t express what these meant to me. During this experience, I learned a lot about the people of St. Peter’s. The people in this great community are warm, embracing, and very caring. You are blessed to have such great clergy. For me, Janice was my saving grace. She was there with me as I waited for the surgery and said a wonderful prayer. She and Susan Atkinson emailed me every day. It gave me a sense of normalcy and I really needed that. Roger and Greg were very supportive as well. You are lucky to have them, too.

Even though I am not a “member” of St. Peter’s, you all have treated me as if I were. I appreciate that, too. As Jody Selman tells me, “you are a cathlopalian,” part Episcopalian, part Catholic (my practicing faith). I now believe her. As I continue to work here, I see the closeness you all share, not only in your faith, but also in your everyday lives. May God bless all of you, as I am blessed to be a part of your community. Thank you again,

Terri Borchardt Parish Administrator

St. Peter’s JOY Group

Broadway Touring Production of the award-winning

musical “Wicked”

Fox Theatre Thursday, Oct. 30 Depart: 10:30 am Return: 5:30 pm

$80 per person includes transportation and ticket.

Reservations must be paid in full & are nonrefundable,

but transferable

Only 30 tickets available! Guests over 21 always welcome!

706 291 9111


Saturday, December 6, 2008

5:00 p.m. Central Standard Time (6:00 p.m. our time) All Saints’ Chapel, Sewanee

**Transportation via Individual Vehicles**

First call for reserved tickets for Lessons and Carols in All Saints’ Chapel at Sewanee, The University of the South. For almost 45 years, people have been coming to the mountaintop campus to attend the Festival of Lessons and Carols. The service was developed from ancient forms of worship and adapted from a service which has been sung annually at King’s College Chapel in Cambridge, England in Cambridge, England, since 1918.

Through music and readings, the Festival of Lessons and Carols explores Christian themes of God’s Advent and incarnation in Jesus Christ. During the service, the University Choir sings carols appropriate to the season of Advent and Christmas after the reading

All Saints’ Chapel at Sewanee, University of the South.

of each lesson. Our own Jim Yeary sang in the first Festival of Lessons and Carols at Sewanee in 1960. His diligence in securing tickets resulted in St. Peter’s receiving 35 reservations/tickets at no cost.

Mary Yarbrough must confirm reservations with the college by October 1 so that our vacancies may be passed on o others on a long waiting list. For reservations, call the church office at 706 291 9111. For additional information, ontact Mary or Curt Yarbrough at 706 506 9078. tc

The Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. in Daniel Hall. Four new vestry members will be elected at this time to replace the four retiring members. Please remember that the Canons of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta DO NOT permit absentee ballots. Parish bylaws require that there be at least two nominees for each vacant position. Last year, more than forty names were submitted to the Nominating Committee and all would have made good vestry members. Once the Committee has a complete list of names and are assured that each potential nominee meets the qualifications, the Committee then prayerfully selects a slate of candidates that tries to continue a balance of gender, skills, age and length of time at St. Peter’s. Bylaws also require that people at the Annual Meeting have an opportunity to make additional nominations rom f the floor. If you intend to do this, please consult the Rector or the Parish Administrator no later than the Wednesday before the Annual Meeting so that canonical qualifications can be checked in the Parish records. If you have potential nominees to suggest, please contact a member of the Vestry Nominating Committee

III, Cheryl before October 6. The members of the Nominating Committee are: David Carlton, David HarveyRanwez and Keith Summerlin. “…Those qualified for election to the office of Vestry Member shall be as follows: Any confirmed communicant in good standing of the Parish who is not less than eighteen years of age, a regular attendant at the

d a services of the Church in the year preceding election, and known by the Treasurer to have made and fulfillestated financial commitment for church support in the year preceding election…. …Those qualified to continue to hold the office of Vestry Member shall be as follows: Any confirmed communicant in good standing of the Parish who is a regular attendant at the services of the church during such term and known by the Treasurer to have timely made and faithfully fulfilled, in accordance with its tenure, a stated financial commitment for church support at all times during such term.”


If you wish to contribute to needy cats and dogs, please bring cans of cat and dog food to be given to those in need at Good Neighbor Ministries. You can leave your goodies in Daniel Hall between now and St. Francis Sunday, October 5. Many families struggle to feed themselves and their companion animals. Most people consider their pets to be family members. While doing research on middle aged women and their relationship with their companion animals, I read stories about homeless who would feed their furry companion before feeding themselves, or the

. In homeless who would not stay in shelters that would not allow their companion animal to sleep there with themmany cases, a companion animal is the only living creature that is consistent in their lives. It is important to heighten our awareness of considering companion animals as family members and in so doing extending our outreach to the furry loved ones of families who are struggling financially to feed themselves and their companion animals. So, when you go to the grocery store, consider exploring the cat and dog food aisle nd picking up items to donate to Good Neighbor Ministries for our four legged friends in need. a

Whose life? Your very best friend’s! The next time you buy seafood, buy the very best there is, and at the same time contribute to what may be the most effective non‐kill shelter for companion dogs in the state. Thousands upon thousands of perfectly wonderful, erfectly adoptable dogs are needlessly put to death every year. Claws for Paws, a group of concerned citizens, is pconducting a special sale in hopes of making a difference. We are offering the very best and freshest seafood available – crab, oysters in the shell, varieties of sushi‐grade fish, jumbo shrimp, you name it – fresh from the ocean to your table. The proceeds will go to Dog Pack Rescue, a true asset to our community, a facility of which North Georgia should be very proud ‐ a shelter that has managed against all odds to save a thousand dogs a year. Read more about Dog Pack at their website, ww.dogpackrescue.org. For an order form or to make a donation, please visit the website at ww.clawsforpaws.org or contact Nancy Knight (706‐802‐8189) or Marion Shaw (706‐234‐2013).

ww

Education for Ministry (EFM) will resume October 5. If you are interested in finding out more about this program, please call Kathy Benson, 706 235 7678, or Randy Warley, 706 295 5666.

Wednesday nights are taking on a brand new flavor to go with Amy Summerlin's menu. Beginning September 3 and continuing through the 24th, Roger Ard will be leading a discussion group. In October, John Kwist, parishioner and Shorter College professor, will have a series of programs for the dinner group. Come and join these worthy gentlemen beginning with Celtic ommunion at 5:30, dinner at 6:00 and edification at :30.

C6


St. Elizabeth’s Guild Meeting Tuesday, September 9, 2008

10:00 a.m. – Rhodes‐Wyatt Room / Daniel Hall

Chairperson Barbara Dixon announces that the fall schedule of St. Elizabeth’s Guild will begin with the regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 9. She urges members to bring a friend and bring ideas for programs this year. Associate Rector Greg Tallant will speak to the group.

What is it? A small interactive discussion, exploration and support group for women who need to focus on self‐development and reduce the demands and pulls of life and other responsibilities. The groups will be informative and will include art, exercise, reflection, dance and fun! Each session will focus on a particular topic. Topics will include: Steps toward an intentional Life, The World Will Not Fall Apart Without You – Setting Boundaries, Feeling Good Giving – Letting Go of Anger, Finding Peace and Strength Within, Strengthening your Voice, Exploring and Expanding Your World, and much more. This is a new group series that is a follow‐up to the Re‐Awakening Workshops. It is also open to those who have not participated in previous workshops.

When is it? The group series will meet on the second and third Thursday afternoons from 4:30‐6:00 p.m. in September and October for a total of four meetings. The dates are September 18 and 25, October 9 and 16. Follow‐up meetings are planned for those who are interested in the possibility of some travel.

Where is it? Seven Hill Counseling Center, 712 West Second Street, Rome, GA 30161. Facilitator: Guyeth G. Nash, M.Ed. M.Div., LPC (706 295 5364).

Who Can Come? Any woman who feels pulled in all directions and feels as if she has lost herself in the process.

How much is it and how do I sign up? The cost of each session is $35.00. It is recommended that all sessions be paid in advance for $120 at a total savings of $20. Please fill out the registration form (below) and mail it in with your check today.

Name: Address: Phone: E‐mail: Payment included (please check one): $70 (for 2 sessions) $120 (for 4 sessions) Please make your check payable to Seven Hills Counseling Center


Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD) announced August 11 that it has achieved a 4‐star rating from Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management. This is the highest possible rating, given to only a quarter of the charities evaluated by the group, the national leader in charity evaluation. This 'exceptional' designation indicates that ERD executes its mission in a financially responsible way. "Episcopal Relief & Development is committed to maintaining the highest standards of accountability so we are extremely pleased to be recognized by Charity Navigator for excelling at this," says Robert W. Radtke, president of ERD. "By effectively administering the financial support of our donors we can truly heal a hurting world." The recognition from Charity Navigator coincides with ERD's launch of their 2007 Annual Summary, highlighting the efforts of the agency to reach close to 2.5 million people in more than 41 countries around the world this past year. ERD's profile on Charity Navigator is available here (http://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=search.summary&orgid=10634).

A copy of the 2007 Annual Summary can be downloaded from Episcopal Relief & Development's website (http://www.er‐d.org/Financials).

Full story: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/79901_99912_ENG_HTM.htm Canterbury Club

An Episcopal/Anglican/ELCA Student Fellowship Open to all College Students

Fall 2008 Tuesday at 5:15 p.m. unless otherwise noted

When

What Where

Tuesday, September 2 Berry Student Involvement Fair Krannert, 5-7 p.m.

Tuesday, September 9 Welcome to CC Dinner IHOP

Sunday, September 14 Lunch after church St. Peter’s & Harvest Moon

Tuesday, September 23 Eucharist Barnwell Chapel

Tuesday, September 30 Pizza & a movie Location TBA

Canterbury Club officers join Janice Wright before a planning meeting for the Fall semester. Officers for the 2008‐2009 school year include (L to R) Spencer Musick (Georgia Highlands); Dnika Joseph (Berry); Matt Weaver (Shorter); Stephen Wyatt (Berry, not pictured) and Kelly Bearden (recent graduate, not pictured).


Jack, Will, and Lilly Ann McClain won this colorful lemonade stand from Crayola. They raised almost $300 selling lemonade in front of Kroger on a hot day in June. Way to go, McClains!!

Christ and Culture – H. Richard Niebuhr’s seminal work in Christian Social Ethics examines various Christian understandings (in history and today) of the relationships between Christ and the cultures in which Christians live.

Wednesday, September 3 Christ against Culture Wednesday, September 10 Christ of Culture Wednesday, September 17 Christ above Culture Wednesday, September 24 Christ and Culture in Paradox Sunday, September 28 Christ Transforming Culture (Adult Forum)

Adult Forum

Sunday, September 7 The Ramifications of Breakfast (George Pullen) Sunday, September 14 The Ramifications of Breakfast (George Pullen)

Spirituality and Ethis Series Sunday, September 21 Series Introduction (Tom Kennedy) Sunday, September 28 Christ Transforming Culture (Roger Ard) (Part of Christ & Culture Wednesday

series) Sunday, October 5 Norman Fletcher Sunday, October 12 Roe v Wade as an example of ethical reasoning on a controversial topic with

considerable religious weight (Roger Ard) Sunday, October 19 Ethical Dimensions of End of Life Decisions (Roger Ard) Sunday, October The Ethics of War (Tom Kennedy)

A Brief History of Hell (November Wednesdays)

November 5 The Hebrew Shadows and the Persian Underworld November 12 Hades: The Greek Underworld November 19 Gehenna: The Garbage Dump of Trashed Souls November 26 Hell! (and Limbo and Purgatory)


Adult Forum See Adult Forum Schedule on Page 7 Altar Guild Contact: Marsha Welch 232-8111 Frieda Yeary©, Pat Douglas, Mai Mai Kelly, Irby Ledbetter, Randa Mixon, Sharon Norman, Tracy Schroeder, Elaine Smith, Linda Voccio, Jacquelyne Wright Breakfast Crew Contact: Ann/George Pullen 295-0010 9/7 Tricia Richards, Jimmy Kelley, Mike Alexander, David Hunter, S. David

Powell, Peter Gilbert 9/14 Jack Niedrach, David Harvey, Tracy/John Schroeder, Nancy Hall, Harriet

Kiser 9/21 Scott Self, Rob Page, Allien McNair, Clem Trammell, Bill Schoepski 9/28 John Hine, Bruce Hunter, Joel Taylor, Joe Seigler, Wright Smith, Bill

Fricks Greeters Contact: Mary Kirkland 291-0558 Bob Evans©, Mary Yarbrough, Cheryl Ranwez, David Harvey, Jody Selman Loaves and Fishes Contact: Madeline Dunwoody 234-0653 Madeline Dunwoody ©, Beverly Burnes, Sylvia Hine, Nancy Hunter, Mary McGuffey, Vallie Orr, Sallie Peebles, Jody Selman, Jane Swanson

Soup Kitchen Contact: Mary and Jack McGuffey 291-2078 Mon Frances Knight ©, Irby Ledbetter, Beth Starnes, Jennifer Anderson,

Mary/Jack McGuffey, Helen Keaten, Shelley Parrish Tuesday Susan Atkinson ©, Suzy Gilbert, Melodie Kennedy, Peggy Nash, Sue

Anderson Wed Sylvia Hine ©, Dana/Jack Edgens, Sallie/Stuart Peebles, Jane/Bob

Swanson, John Hine, Vallie Orr Thurs Sarah Kilgore ©, Laura Frederick, Linda/Bob Kane, Barb/Rich Molnar Fri Andye Moss ©, Cissy Rogers, Zibby White, Frieda Yeary, Christie

Thomason, Bill Knight, David Powell Subs Meg Eberhart, Jean/Gene Clark, Larry Osborn, Patti/Henry Brown,

Ann/George Pullen, Laura Davis, Jan Flippen, Nancy Hunter, Mai Mai Kelly, Randa Mixon, Marny Busbin, Gin Gunther, Steven Ramos, Leamon Scott, Spenser Musick, Georgia Hardwick, Nell Warren, Em Dempsey

Ushers Contact: Leamon Scott 234-7545 Buster Wright, Al Bonnyman, Randy Warley, Rick Nance Wednesday Night Supper Team Dagmar Schmitz-Carlton©, David Carlton, Michael Hillman, Wanda Hillman, Sunny Marceau Vestry Person of the Month: David Carlton

Lay Readers, Chalice Bearers and Acolytes Date / Svc Reader/Prayers Chalice Bearer 1st Lesson 2nd Lesson Prayers

Wed. 9/3 5:30 pm Laura Frederick Curt Yarbrough

Sun. 9/7 8:30 am Mark Jester Mark Jester

11:00 am Elizabeth Ard Andye Moss Alexandra Carlton Cheryl Ranwez Jake Taylor Alexandra Carlton Jackson Hodges Lucy Lansing

Wed. 9/10 5:30 pm Zibby White Steve Stutts

Sun. 9/14 8:30 am Wade Carpenter John Duncan

11:00 am Keith Summerlin Harry Musselwhite Randa Mixon George Awsumb Jackson Hodges Austin Musselwhite Alexandra Carlton Lucy Lansing

Wed. 9/17 5:30 pm Curt Yarbrough Elizabeth Ard

Sun. 9/21 8:30 am Meg Alexander Tom Dasher

11:00 am Sunny Marceau Bob Steinbruegge Zibby White John Lanier Jake Taylor Jake Summerlin Austin Musselwhite Alexandra Carlton

Wed.9/24 5:30 pm David Harvey Bryant Steele

Sun. 9/28 8:30 am Duane Parsons Ella Dasher

11:00 am Bryant Steele Laura Frederick Randy Warley Michael Hillman Austin Musselwhite Jackson Hodges Jake Summerlin Lucy Lansing


September Calendar SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

All weekly schedules are noted on line below – any changes or additions are noted on the actual date.

Sunday Worship

8:30 Rite I, Chapel 9:00 Breakfast (Daniel Hall) 10:00 Christian Ed 11:00 Rite II, Church

For Adult Forum topics, see Schedule on previous page.

Tuesday Worship

12:15 Healing

Service

Wednesday Schedule

5:30 Celtic

Eucharist, Chapel

5:45 Supper 6:30 Classes 7:30 Adult Choir

Thursday Schedule

10:00 Bible

Study, Rhodes-Wyatt Room

1 Labor Day

[Office Closed]

2 7:00am Sr. High

Devotional, Honeymoon Bakery

3 6:15pm EYC

4 5 6

7 17 Pentecost

4-6pm Work

Session, Children’s playground

4-6pm JrEYC

8 9 7:00am Men’s Room,

White House Lobby

10:00am St.

Elizabeth’s, Rhodes-Wyatt Room

10 6:30pm EYC,

Schroeder’s

11 12 13 Young Adults Picnic

and Camp Out at Jaynee & David

Harvey’s

14 18 Pentecost

Young Adults Picnic

and Camp Out at Jaynee & David

Harvey’s

4:30pm SrEYC @ 1st Baptist

15

16 7:00 am – Jr. High

Devotional, White House Lobby

5:30pm – Vestry Mtg, Rhodes-Wyatt Room

17 Deposit Due for NYC EYC Trip

6:15pm EYC

18 19 20

21 19 Pentecost

EYC Braves Game – leave right after

church

22 23 7:00am Men’s Room,

White House Lobby

24 6:15pm State of

EYC, White House Lobby

NEWSLETTER

DEADLINE

25 26 27

28 20 Pentecost

NO EYC

29 30

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Soup Kitchen, Daniel Hall

July 2008 Financial Report

Revenues:

y Budget Monthl $55,319.60 $61,795.86 Actual

Expenses: y Budget Monthl $60,003.02

Actual $64,630.27


Steve Peifer has a vision for Kenya – a vision that was born in 2000 after meeting a class full of Kenyan children who were lying on a dirt floor. When he asked why they were lying down, the teacher told him most of them had not eaten since Monday. It was a Thursday. When they sat up straight, they would faint. This was a life‐changing moment for Peifer which prompted his idea that through education, today’s children can lift Kenya out of poverty and build the next high‐tech economy. A missionary and college counselor in the city of Kijabe, he is making his vision a reality. Since the start of his food program, which feeds up to 18,000 students at 34 schools each day, drop‐out rates have plummeted to less than one percent. But Peifer didn’t stop there. Instead, he has established 13 computer centers in remote areas of Kenya so that students can be trained in the field of technology. These centers, housed in recycled steel shipping crates and fueled by solar panels, will afford Kenyan children the opportunity to secure professional, well‐paying jobs.

“If we can provide a lunch to every Kenyan kid who needs it, if they are able to stay in school until they finish high school and learn about technology, then we can break the back of poverty in Kenya in one generation,” said Peifer, who was named one of seven CNN Heroes in 2007. Winner in CNN’s “championing the children” category, he was selected from among 7,000 nominations by viewers in 80 countries. Steve Peifer “I was on duty the night the CNN Heroes awards show aired,” said Ivy Brewer, associate dean of college guidance and a friend of Peifer. “I talked to some of the girls in Regester House about Steve’s story, and so many of them gathered around the television to cheer him on. Certainly Steve does amazing things for the children of Kenya, but that night I was grateful for the lesson he was teaching my girls – that an ordinary person can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others.” Peifer will speak to Upper School students and faculty members Sept. 29 during assembly. Parents and members of the Rome community are invited to a special presentation that evening at 7 p.m. in Morris Chapel. For more information, visitwww.kenyakidscan.com.

The Future of Wednesdays Task Force met on Wednesday, August 13, at 6:30 p.m. Present were Michael Booth, Beverly Burnes, Allien McNair, Randa Mixon, Mary Patton, Amy Summerlin, Sherri Weiler and Janice Wright. Absent were Ella Dasher, Ron King, Andye Moss, Keith Summerlin and Melissa Tarrant. Task force members discussed the following subjects as we reviewed the process year to date 2008:

• Amy Summerlin described the need to increase prices beginning in September. Food costs are up and she can no longer provide the kinds of meals (quality, variety) that people expect at the current rates. The task force members agreed to raise prices to $8 per person, $25 family maximum beginning with the September 3 dinner. Michael Booth led the group in praising Amy for the delicious meals

• Randa Mixon said that we should solicit more volunteers for the monthly teams since she and some other team members are weary of serving and need a break. Amy stated that she needs four volunteers each Wednesday night.

• Greg Tallant has spoken with Amy about bringing EYC members to supper and helping subsidize their meals (rather than buying pizza). Amy will be sure to add kid‐friendly options, as needed. Greg should be sure to give Terri Borchardt an approximate headcount by 5:00 p.m. each Monday

• Committee members agreed to continue dinners through December 17, 2008, and resume on January 7, 2009. Suppers will be on summer break (due to consistently poor attendance) from June 17 until August 12, 2009

• Beverly Burnes championed the cause of encouraging more parishioners to attend Wednesday night suppers. She suggested more advertising (“Summerlin Specials”) and one‐on‐one invitations, including phone calls to the parents of EYC and children’s choir members

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 14]

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The regular monthly meeting of the Vestry of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Rome, in the Diocese of Atlanta, convened at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, June 17, 2008. The Rev. Roger Ard called the meeting to order.

Delegates to Diocesan Council – Diocesan Council meets November 14 and 15 in Decatur. Delegates will need to be elected at the August meeting. Anyone interested in being a delegate should let Roger know. Diocesan Council is scheduled to meet in Rome in 2009. Present: Bob Berry, David Carlton, Nancy Knight, Norman

Fletcher, David Harvey III, Sue Mann, Nat Massey, Cheryl Ranwez, Keith Summerlin, David Hunter, Janice Bracken Wright, Greg Tallant, Roger Ard and Sallie Peebles.

WARDENS

Senior Warden – Sue Mann – Sue reminded everyone that attendance at the Vestry meetings should be taken very seriously. She urged the nominating committee (the outgoing Vestry members) at the time they seek candidates this fall to emphasize to them the importance of being able to attend all meetings.

Absent: Laura Davis, Leamon Scott and Joel Taylor. The May minutes were approved.

Preliminary Remarks – Roger Ard The retreat in January at Amicalola Falls cost $3,000. Sue asked the Vestry to consider having the retreat at the church or close by in a location that s free. Discussion followed. The consensus was not to use the church, but to find another location nearby. A place will need to be confirmed by the end of September so that the reservation for January ’09 at Amicalola Falls can be cancelled.

Roger discussed some of the realities of the financial situation that are facing St. Peter’s. Discussion followed. He appointed a committee—David Hunter, Treasurer; Nancy Knight, Chair of the Finance Committee; Sue Mann, Senior Warden; and Bob Berry, Junior Warden. They will bring ideas and recommendations to the August Vestry meeting of ways to address the shortfall. David Harvey III emphasized the importance of continuing to grow St. Peter’s membership. Greg, David, Keith and others will form a committee to consider ways of reaching new families and meeting the needs of the younger members of the parish.

CLERGY

Janice Bracken Wright – Canterbury Club had a summer luncheon following church last week. The lunch was paid for by the Diocese. There were 12 in attendance.

Polling of the parish and gleaning ideas from the church at large was also discussed.

The JOY group will visit Fernbank Museum of Natural History on Tuesday, August 26, to see the exhibit “Ends of the Earth: From Polar Bears to Penguins.” The exhibition explores the Arctic and the Antarctic.

Finance Report – David Hunter Total revenues for the month of May were only about $7,000 below budget and expenses were about $11,000 below budget. Some expenses had been deferred, but all have now been paid. There was some recent loss in pledge contributions due to death and a family moving from Rome. The $8,500 endowment income is needed. David will talk with Tom Dasher about proceeding with that.

Wednesday night dinners and programs were discussed. A red, white and blue bingo night is planned for July 2. Bob Berry will be calling the bingo and it should be fun for all! Continuing the Wednesday night suppers and programs through the remainder of the summer was discussed. It was decided that there will be no suppers and programs after July2 until August 15. There will be a kick‐off to launch the new season August 13.

The 2007 audit was discussed. David will talk to William Bennett, Canon for Administration and Finance for the Diocese, about using a “limited audit.” Whittington and Jones CPA firm charges $5,000 for a full audit and a limit audit is $3,500.

Greg Tallant – Greg said he is marking his first year at St. Peter’s this week. He is more and more comfortable and is being called upon pastorally more and more which, he feels, is a very good thing.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Properties – Nat Massey – An anonymous gift of $6,800 was given to air condition the chancel area. Ware Mechanical Company will begin the work in the next couple of weeks and will be mindful of Sundays. They hope to reuse the existing supply vents, but may need to add one or two more returns. The location of these will be approved by Roger.

Greg said the cessation of the programs and suppers on Wednesday will have some impact on EYC, but they will plan around it and meet at places such as Schroeder’s restaurant.

OPEN MINUTE Year around Sunday School, Sunday morning, breakfasts, and two services on Sundays in the summer were discussed. No changes will be made this year. A task force for ’09 will explore these changes.

The Synagogue next door, as agreed, has run a drainpipe through the wall dividing us and all is going well with it.

Visitor’s Sunday – David Harvey III – David was disappointed that only two families visited. It was not as well attended as it should have been.

August Devotion – David Carlton The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. by singing of the Doxology.

NEW BUSINESS

Diaconate Letter for Harvey Hill – The letter to certify continued support for Harvey’s application for ordination to the Sacred Order of Deacons was signed by all Vestry members present.

Respectfully submitted, Sallie Peebles, Clerk


Picnic and Camp Out – September 13‐14 All people in their 20s and 30s are invited to a picnic on Saturday, September 13, at the lakehouse of David and Jaynee Harvey in Armuchee. If you have children, they are welcome to come, too! Spend the afternoon playing in the water and eating the last of our summer food. As the sun goes down, all men are invited to stay the night for a campout and Sunday morning church at the lake. All children who wish to stay overnight with their dads are free to do so. For more information, contact Greg Tallant. The Men’s Room opens September 9! Beginning in September, a men’s prayer and devotional meeting will be held twice a month in the lobby of the white house. Shamelessly call “The Men’s Room,” this group will meet at 7:00 am on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month. Join leaders Jimmy Smith, Damon Black, and Greg Tallant for a time of study, prayer, and devotion, as well as coffee and breakfast foods. Mark September 9 and 23 on your Blackberries, iPhones, calendars and dashboards, and start your day off with some prayer and ellowship. f

Young Adult Sunday School in September – The Question of evil and belief in God Young adult Sunday school in September will focus on the problem of belief in God and in the face of evil and suffering. We will be working with a curriculum call, “Serious Answers to Hard Questions,” and a participant’s guidebook is available for $8. To purchase one, please contact Greg Tallant. The guidebook will be used throughout the year for other topics in the Sunday school class. Please join us from 10:00‐10:45 in Greg Tallant’s office on the second floor of the white house. Young Women’s Retreat – January 3‐4 All women in their 20s and 30s are invited to come to a 24‐hour retreat at the Lake Blue Ridge homes of Stefani Ortman and John & Mary Kirkland. Come for the rest you need after the busy holiday period, the fun that comes only when all the men are somewhere else, and an opportunity to reflect and pray together. We are looking for a facilitator for the retreat, which will focus on what it means to be home, and whether where we live today is home.

Dressed in red for St. Peter's Day were (front) Cooper Atkinson, Alex Hodges, Mason Atkinson, Julia Hodges, Isabella Carlton, (back) Adam Tarrant, Nicholas Carlton, Alexandra Carlton and Ellen Summerlin

The serving line stretched all around the Civic Center at St. Peter's Day barbeque


Sunday School – For over a month now, a task force has been meeting weekly to pray, study and work towards a revamping of the junior high and senior high Sunday school programs. For too long, the leaders of those programs had been working without adequate help and support. The task force—Elizabeth Ard, Bill Schoepski, Allien McNair, Jane Cunningham, and Greg Tallant—is working to identify future leaders of those programs and to develop an organizational structure that will ensure that teachers are fully supported. The first task of the group was to affirm that we believe God is calling this church to youth Christian education, and thus our task was to talk to people and find out who feels called to this rewarding ministry. Though we have not yet talked to everyone, the initial responses have been very positive. If you have some energy or interest around youth ministry, feel free to contact one of the members of this task force. Even if you do not feel called, we welcome your prayers for our work.

New York City Pilgrimage & Mission Trip – After asking all the families to check their calendars for June 2009, we have selected a date for our trip – Thursday, June 4 through Monday, June 8. As with all dates, there are some scheduling conflicts, but we hope that you will consider making this trip a priority in your summer schedule. The mission work and the chance to experience New York not as a tourist but as a pilgrim is an opportunity that should be quite powerful. For those who wish to go, a deposit of $100 is needed by Wednesday, September 17. For more information, please contact Greg Tallant.

New York City Fund-raising – HIRE THE EYC! As part of our effort to pay for 2/3 of the cost of the trip, the EYC who are going to New York will be available to come and do odd jobs around your house. We ask that you make donations to the fund‐raising effort. For more information, please contact Linda Jennings at [email protected].

Jr. EYC'ers Patrick Tarrant, Ella Wood, Ellen Summerlin, Asa Crawford (standing), Remy Jennings and Lucy Lansing enjoyed a rafting trip at Lake Blue Ridge in July.


You’re Invited (and so are your friends) to our

September EYC Events! Sundays at St. Peter’s

9/07 JUNIOR EYC – Help with Jesus in the Park form 4:00‐6ish at Ridge Ferry Park 9/14 SENIOR EYC – Paintball with other churches – meet at First Baptist at 4:30 – cost $25/person + supper 9/21 TRIP TO ATLANTA BRAVES GAME – leave right after church 9/28 No EYC Tuesday Mornings at St. Peter’s – 7:00-8:15 a.m.

9/02 Senior High Morning Devotional – Meet at Honeymoon Bakery at 7:00 a.m.

9/15 Junior high Morning Devotional – Meet at White House in lobby at 7:00 a.m. – food provided Wednesdays at St. Peter’s – 5:30-8:00 p.m.

9/03 WEDNESDAY NIGHT AT ST. PETER’S 5:30 Celtic Eucharist 5:50 Dinner in Daniel Hall (special EYC price of $3) 6:15 EYC room opens

• check‐in and devotional time • Wii, decompression, and goofing off

7:15 Senior EYC time (Jr. EYC to Youth Choir)

or become my Facebook friend

Cell – 678 386 8907E‐mail – [email protected]

Questions? Contact Greg Tallant9/10 SCHROEDERS NIGHT 6:30 – 7:15 Schroeders 7:15 – 8:00 Wii, decompression, and goofing off

9/17 WEDNESDAY NIGHT AT ST. PETER’S

• All agreed that high quality programming is one way to increase attendance at Wednesday night suppers. We would prefer two

or more multi‐week “series” between now and Thanksgiving, followed by several “single night subjects” (including Greg Tallant on the State of the Youth, Susan Harvey on The Henge Binge: dowsing sacred sites). Lively discussion of possible topics and speakers followed. Here are some of the highlights and assignments:

Sherri Weiler will lead a book study on Deepak Chopra’s The Third Jesus in January Janice Wright will ask Wayne Johnston to consider leading a multi‐week Bible study Janice will ask Roger Ard to consider leading a class on The Children of Abraham (reflecting on the roots and evolution

of the Jewish/Christian/Islamic faiths). She will also ask Roger to consider a “non‐Inquirers” class series on the history of The Episcopal Church beginning with the AC worldwide and drilling down to the church in the US, the diocese, and the parish

Amy will ask Keith Summerlin to consider leading a course on the Gnostic Gospels (at the request of Allien McNair) Sherri will ask John Kwist to consider leading a book study. She said that Aaron Werner, the new Dean of the Chapel at

Shorter College, may be a resource to us in the future Other possible teachers might include Betsy Bergstrom and Kathy Benson (EfM mentors) Amy will talk to Keith about the possibility of several EfM grads working together on a series

Task force members should send the results of their inquiries to Janice as soon as possible. Meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted – Janice Bracken Wright


Happy New (School) Year! – Having spent the summer with my husband leading the children in a one‐room schoolhouse style Sunday School and Children’s Chapel each week, I’ve learned a lot. Most importantly, I’ve gotten to know these children. First, last and always this is a blessing I am mindful of and grateful for each day. Much of what Paul and I have experienced and concluded would certainly not be news to most of you. The history of the Children’s Ministries Committee over the last 5‐6 years is a testimony to the dedication of what is now a core group of young adults who participate in the leadership of this church. Indeed, we are the church. This being the start of a new school year, the time is ripe to take some action with regard to our children’s experience here at St. Peter’s. So here goes: 1. UNIFIED CURRICULUM for all children birth – 5th grade: Living the

Good News lectionary‐based curriculum, music, take home materials and décor. Enough “stuff” and structure to create an environment of interest, intimacy, learning and fun with age‐appropriate materials. As a result, family conversations after church will include a common thread.

Living the Good News is the most popular Episcopal curriculum and includes wonderful teacher guides. We will still have multi‐sensory, multi‐style learning adventures similar to Workshop Rotation and opportunities to create a love and wonder‐filled ownership of Bible stories like we have done with Godly Play. These two solid curriculum models have served us well. Living the Good News will take us through the lectionary week by week over next 3‐5 years, providing a solid foundation in Bible study and Episcopal tradition.

2. FACILITIES: Our children’s church home needs our attention.

Starting with the last space first, let me say that I have a dream that one Sunday afternoon all our parents will come to a work session on the playground, haul away the debris, cut back the trees and vines, repair the cement wall, replace the blue tarp roof, replace the mulch and reseal/repair the wooden play structures. If nothing else herein has been interesting to you, you’re the likely foreman of this endeavor!

Come to our work session Sunday, September 7 from 4‐6 pm to hear more ideas for upgrading the children’s spaces!

3. SAFETY: We are a loving group who appreciates the nature of the

child. However, we’ve got to reach a minimum standard of safety for our children. The basics:

• At least two adults working in each classroom • Safeguarding God’s Children online training for all

adults • We respect ourselves, each other, and the church • Stated expectation that children must stay with their

group

The next level—also known as reality. Teaching children takes repetition –I can’t count the number of times Paul and I have repeated, “we don’t dip our spaghetti in our milk,” or “we don’t pile a mountain of blankets on top of the dog and then climb it.” It’s funny and it’s surreal and it’s frustrating. And we’re all in the same boat! Not just us, but our parents and all church families before us! Here are the bullet points:

• uniform responses present a united front ‐we don’t play tag in Daniel Hall on Sunday ‐we stay with our group the entire time ‐we ask for help when we need it ‐it’s never okay to hit or kick ‐we respect ourselves, each other, the church

• Children and adults feel more secure when we answer to each other

• Problems will arise, so ask for help (see above) • Communication and involvement show love

4. STAFFING BY VOLUNTEERS: Much of the above adds up to more

manpower, a parent‐powered effort. We can make exciting connections among our families by committing to spending time with the children! We have a core group of 20+ families with 40+ children!! We need 30 teachers for Sunday school. Look at the math:

4‐5 YO 1st‐2nd 3rd‐5th Sept/Oct Sept/Oct Sept/Oct Nov/Dec Nov/Dec Nov/Dec Jan/Feb Jan/Feb Jan/Feb Mar/Apr Mar/Apr Mar/Apr May/June May/June May/June

The 15 pairs above can be seen as slots for 2 people. Tiers of support will be built in so that committing to teaching a class leaves you feeling like you got to know some helpful folks. A structure will be provided that addresses needs for the entire hour as well as transition times.

We have come up with lots of great ideas and hope to have many parents excited to come along for the ride. The first step is to prayerfully consider how you might serve the children. Come to the Young Adult Sunday School class on September 7. Get there on time for your class and I will make a presentation at the end of the hour. It takes a village, people! I thank you for your support of me and the children thank you for all you do!! With love, Susan


The congratulations of the parish is extended to: Isabel Bonnyman for winning the E.L. Wright Award for French III, the Yale Book Award, The University of Rochester Susan

B. Anthony Award, and the D.A.R. Medal at Darlington School Honors Day. Isabel is the daughter of Jean and Al Bonnyman Spencer Carroll for winning the Xerox Award for the University of Rochester Innovation and Information Technology at

Darlington School Honors Day. Spencer is the son of Dale and Todd Carroll Katherine Knight for winning the Worth Moser Award and D.M. McNaull Award at Darlington School Honors Day. Katherine is

the daughter of Nancy and Jack Knight and the granddaughter of Frances Knight Logan O’Riley for winning the American Choral Directors’ Association National Student Award, Chorus-Darlington Players

Achievement Award, and Darlington School Players Award for Acting at Darlington School Honors Day. Logan is the brother of Cameron O’Riley

Dan Bishop for winning the Significant Contributions to the Darlington Community Award at Darlington Honors Day. Dan is a member of the faculty of Darlington Upper School

Janice and Bill Byars on the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary on August 2, 2008 Katherine and Lane Avery on the birth of their son, Noah Thomas Avery, on August 1, 2008, in Rome. Noah is the grandson

of Ella Ann and Tom Dasher Jason Bloom on his selection as Chief Acolyte. He will be in charge of scheduling, training, and “little surprises that pop up” Lieutenant Commander and Mrs. Todd Sawhill on the birth of their son, Jackson William, on May 26, 2008. He is the

grandson of Carol and Murray McCann The parish welcomes into the Household of God

Nathaniel Wilson Massey IV and Megan Elayne Massey, children of Amy and Nat Massey, on August 13 2008 Benson Cooper and Paul Mason Pepper Atkinson, sons of Susan and Paul Atkinson, on August 13, 2008

The sympathy of the parish is extended to the families of: Patti and Mike Barron on the death of his mother, Jane Shannon Barron, on July 11, 2008 Bubba and Martha Ann Dunson on the death of his sister, Dorothy Dunson Jordan, on July 14, 2008 Jean Clark on the death of her husband, Gene on June 26, 2008. The family of Gary Hamilton upon his death, June 21, 2008

The parish is asked to remember the following dates: November 9 – Annual Parish Meeting December 6 – The Divine Tour of Churches October 5 – Blessing of the Animals, 4 p.m.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 East Fourth Avenue Rome, Georgia 30161

L R etters to the omans

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