Life at St. Peter's

Life at St. Peter’s

115 West Seventh StreetCharlotte, NC 28202

704-332-7746www.st-peters.org

The thriving life at St. Peter’s presents us with a myriad of ways—old and new—to engage God and deepen connections. In a world full of

increasingly more choices of how we might navigate our journeys as spiritual beings and spend our valuable time, it is my prayer that we will commit our lives to intentional acts of engaging God and deepening connections. Both within and beyond St. Peter’s sacred space in Center City Charlotte, the 2015th year of our Lord

provides us with opportunities to grow and be transformed by what is offered through our ministries. Our intentional commitments to the mission of the Church are bound to enrich our engagement of God and human need to deepen connections with others who also are created in the image of God. An “outline of the faith commonly called the Catechism” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 855)

reminds us that the mission of the Church is to restore all people to unity with God and each other; that the Church pursues its mission as it prays and worships, proclaims the Gospel, and promotes justice, peace, and love; and that the Church carries out its mission through the ministry of all its members. With the 2015 Winter–Spring edition of Life at St. Peters, we are inviting members to complete a brief time and talent survey and showcasing the full array of programs and events to assist us on the journey of faith. (You can pick up the survey in the public spaces of the Parish House or online at web.st-peters.org/timetalent.) Some of the offerings represent the traditional rhythms of our parish life, while others are seasonal or new. In them and one another, may we find blessing and encouragement. Please join me in inviting others to share in them, as each offering is intended as a means to engage God and deepen connections. — The Reverend Ollie V. Rencher, Rector

Programs and Events at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Center City Charlotte2015 Winter, Spring and Beyond

Inside Life at St. Peter’sPage 2 – Worship

Page 3 – Adult Formation

Page 5 – Children’s Formation

Page 6 – Youth Formation

Page 7 – Fellowship

Page 8 – Servant Ministry

Page 9 – Music

0 – About St. Peter’s

Page 11 – Calendar

Engage God. Deepen Connections.

Daily, our community of faith seeks ways to engage God and deepen connections

as part of our journey of becoming what we articulate in our vision. The worship, formation, fellowship, servant ministry, music, and community engagement opportunities in this issue of Life at St. Peter’s are offered to assist us on the way.

Your prayer, time and talent, financial support, and sheer encouragement of our mission and ministry reveal unceasing support of our parish life. All are welcome and asked to invite others to share in whatever we do to co-create the beloved community with God through our vision.

Our VisionA community of bold followers of Jesus

A crowd that effects good change for the worldA place known for radical love and welcomeA beacon of hope in Center City Charlotte


2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond2

All that we do at and through St. Peter’s is rooted in the worship of God. The term “worship” comes from an Old English root “worthship.” We worship that which is truly worthy of our

ultimate allegiance and devotion—God alone. Another term for worship is “liturgy,” from an ancient Greek word meaning “the work of the people.” In many ways, we come away from other common settings for liturgy: to pray, read and hear the Holy Scriptures, experience music, be silent, and partake in the holy meal from God’s Table at services of Holy Communion.

God’s Table is central to our journeys and reminds us of Christ’s invitation of how we are to be in the world. In worship, we affirm our relationship

with our Creator. We celebrate with friend and stranger alike what God has done and is doing to create and renew the world. We reset our compasses toward that which is truly ultimate amidst a culture cluttered with distractions. In a stressed and harried world, we enter the sacred time of worship to be refreshed in the company of God and one another. Ultimately, we are strengthened for service.

Whether it is Holy Communion on a Sunday morning, evening or weekday at noon, the 30-minute service of weekday Morning Prayer, the seasonal service of Choral Evensong, lighting candles or touching holy water during one of the Taizé-patterned Holy Communion services, or entering the unlocked front doors of St. Peter’s that are open for prayer (Monday–Friday during parish office hours), all are welcome to all that we offer—to worship.

Adults and youth interested in serving and supporting worship as an Acolyte, Altar Guild Minister, Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Usher or Welcome Host should contact Mary Virginia Woodall, Director of Ministry Development, 704-749-6151, [email protected].

Sundays 8:00 am Holy Communion in the traditional

language of the Book of Common Prayer includes sermon, organ music, and hymns

8:30 am “Holy Chow” Breakfast in the Community Room until 9:25 am

(offered according to formation schedule)

9:30 am – 10:30 am Christian Formation (education) opportunities for all ages in the Parish House (watch

for our summer programming after May 24)

10:45 am Holy Communion in the contemporary language of the Book of Common Prayer includes

sermon, choral and organ music, hymns

12:00 pm Coffee Hour with light refreshments in the Community Room after 10:45 worship

5:00 pm Evensong: Sung Prayers from the Book of Common Prayer led by clergy and choral ensembles (second and fourth Sundays through March 22, visit

website for detailed schedule)

6:15 pm Holy Communion in the contemporary language of the Book of Common Prayer includes

a brief reflection, acoustic music, candlelight, and contemplative silence

Monday through Friday8:00 am Morning Prayer in the Chapel without music

(30-minute service from The Book of Common Prayer,this service is a meditative way to enter the day ahead)

Tuesdays and Thursdays Noon Holy Communion in the Chapel without

music (30-minute service, this service is a perfect way to spend lunchtime)

Church Doors are open Monday through Friday 8:00 am until 4:00 pm for private prayer,

reflection, and meditation

WorshipSt. Peter’S


2015: Winter, Spring and Beyond 3

FormationSt. Peter’s

SundaysParish Hall, 9:30 am (Second Floor)January 4, 11: Unpacking The Lord’s Prayer – Based onMatthew 6:9–13, Christians have prayed “thy will be done” and “as it isin heaven,” while struggling daily to communicate with God. This two-week session will explore a prayer that most have memorized and

explain what each verse attempts to teach us.

January 18: A Movable Feast: Exploring Mobile Models for Young Adult Ministry – Every generation receives and passes on the sacred tradition in ways marked by their contemporary context. Come and learn about a new model for ministering to, with, and among

young adults.

January 25: Legacy Sunday: A History of St. Peter’s – Celebrate the work God has been doing among the people of St. Peter’s and beyond since 1834…and learn how you can keep it going.

February 1: Health and Faith: Dying with Dignity – Join us as we continue our conversation begun last Fall. In this session, we will talk about developing smart public policies and consistently compassionate care for those approaching life’s end.

February 8, 15: Engaging Justice – This two-week series will provide you with a Biblical overview of the idea of “justice,” examples from history where the Church has been a leader in pursuing justice, and discussions featuring parishioners committed to this important part of our Baptismal call.

February 22, March 1, 8, 15, 22: Forgiveness, Reconciliation and Renewal – In this series we will explore the liberating power of forgiveness and reconciliation on personal, inter-personal, and social levels.

March 29: What is so Holy about Holy Week? – We will walk through the four sacred liturgies that comprise the holiest of weeks.

April 12: Easter Continues: The Great 50 Days – Ever notice that the Easter season is ten days longer than Lent? Come explore theological

and liturgical traditions of the Great 50 Days.

April 19, 26: A Glimpse into Other Religions – Come with ques-tions as we learn about the basic tenets and principles of the faith of some of our neighbors. How can what we learn deepen our respect for the diversity of God’s good creation?

May 3, 10: Saving Faithfully: God and Your Budget – These two practical sessions will focus on the nuts and bolts of faithful stewardship of personal finances. The Young Adults in the Church class will be joining us for these important sessions.

May 17: Saving Faithfully: God and St. Peter’s Budget – Now that we have identified some principles for faithful stewardship of personal finances, we will explore how the Rector and Vestry seek to apply them to our life together at St. Peter’s.

May 24: Pentecost: The Birthday of Church – All ages will join together as we celebrate another year of life together at St. Peter’s.

Tower Room, 9:30 am (Second Floor)January 25, February 1, 8, 15 – Young Adult (20’s and 30-ish) Book Study – God-making amid anxiety is a standard human proce-dure.” Where is God in your work, play, and loving? This class is based on Walter Brueggemann’s Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No the Culture of Now. What are we called to do, as Christians, in a “culture of now”? Led by

Ruth Woodend.

Town Choir Room, 9:30 am (Basement) January 4, 11: Navigating Challenges Among God’s Children – Led by the Associate Rector, this two-week series will provide practical tools on navigating conflict in a healthy way.

January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 15: Bible Study: The Beatitudes Assisting Priest and New Testament scholar Jonathan Soyars will lead us in an in-depth study of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and its relevance for our contemporary context.

April 19, 26: Growing in the Dark – Too often we associate God exclusively with light, neglecting the long Biblical and spiritual tradition of finding God or being found by God in the dark. Come learn about how God uses both light and dark to nurture our souls.

May 3, 10: Bible Study: The Bible and Immigration – While the “immigration debate” rages on in Congress, we are invited on a regu-lar basis to welcome the immigrant among us. Come explore how the Biblical mandate to “welcome the stranger” might connect with daily life in Charlotte.

Formation (Education) is the lifelong educational journey of growing in the Christian faith. Sunday and weekday opportunities are offered for all ages to nurture their spiritual growth. Childcare is available during most offerings. Parents should contact the Director of Children’s Formation, Laurie Haynes Burlington ([email protected]) to confirm availability. More information, including any updated schedules of events, is available at www.st-peters.org.

Please See Formation, Page 4

Adults



Weeknight Programs Reading Holy Books: A Comparative Look at Scriptures – Tower Room (Second Floor) Tuesdays 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm, January 13, 20, 27, February 3, 10: “They denied the truth and uttered a monstrous falsehood against Mary. They declare: We have put to death the Messiah, Jesus Son of Mary.” Sound like a familiar passage from the New Testa-ment? NOPE! This passage is a quote from the Koran. Come join us for a 5-week session exploring the sacred scriptures of the world’s other largest religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism.

Kergyma: The Bible In-Depth – Mondays 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm Library (First Floor) - The thirty-four week intensive overview of the Bible continues through June 8 under the leadership of Assisting Priest

Murdock Smith.

Holiday Weekend EventCenter City Concerts: A Multicultural Celebration – Monday, Jan-uary 19, Noon - Observe the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday at a celebra-tion of civil and human rights through music and poetry to be offered by talented artists from the Charlotte region. All ages are welcome to attend this important event to inform how we might share in creating a better world for all people.

RetreatsEpiscopal Church Women’s Retreat: “Finding God’s Peace Within” – February 21, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm – Led by Elizabeth Rich-ardson, this retreat will explore how to seek rest and peace in God, by identifying barriers that keep us from that peace and offering practices that may help us overcome them.

God’s Tapestry: A Lenten Weekend of Reconciliation – Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7: The season of Lent calls us to focus our attention on reconciling ourselves to God and our neighbor. Under-standing and celebrating our differences is a foundational step toward

justice, healing, and reconciliation. This interactive weekend retreat will equip participants with practices and tools to live fully into the diversity and difference of God’s creation and our community. Facilita-tors will be professor, consultant, Episcopal priest, the Rev. Dr. William Kondrath, Episcopal Church Missioner for Social Justice and Advocacy Engagement, Chuck Wynder, Jr. of Charlotte, and St. Peter’s Clergy.

Summer Offerings Formation Course for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Level I) – June 15 – June 20, Monday-Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm and Saturday,

9:00 am – 12:00 pm in the Parish House Library and Catechesis Atria.

Parents, catechists, religious educators, clergy, and other interested adults are drawn to the very rich, retreat-like courses in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Through this course, adults have the opportunity to see all age appropriate presentations and materials given to children from the Bible and liturgy.

Each course focuses on a specific developmental age group of the child. Level I prepares adults working with children ages three to six years old. The foundation for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is in the Level I for-mation course, as it is in this course that a catechist becomes attuned to the religious life of the child. The course includes preparations in giving the presentations (the lessons) to children, provides a solid background in the theological and pedagogical underpinnings of this work. Please note that one does not have to commit to working with children as a prerequisite for participation in the course. Contact Sunday Catechesis Coordinator Anna Hurdle for more information at ahurdle@ st-peters.org.

Stay tuned to our website and weekly eNews for additional summer offerings.

Formation, Continued From Page 3

Pastoral Care MinistriesOur practical and spiritual care for one another

Addiction and Therapy ResourcesCalls and Cards to the Sick and Shut-in

Counseling Services by Parish ClergyGrief Support and Counseling

Guild of the Christ Child for Households with ChildrenHealing and Intercessory Prayer Ministry

Home Communion to the Sick and Shut-inLay Pastoral Visits to the Sick and Shut-in

Prayer Shawl MinistrySupport Group on Various Topics

To serve through or access these ministries, contact The Reverend Joslyn Ogden Schaefer, Associate Rector for Pastoral Care and

Formation, 704-749-6150, [email protected].

FormationSt. Peter’s

AdultsAdults are offered a creative spread of morning and evening offerings on Sundays and weekdays. Childcare is available during most offerings. Parents should contact the Director of Children’s Formation to confirm availability. To learn more about the following and future ones, stay tuned to www.st-peters.org under the Formation tab.



For more than 20 years, St. Peter’s has chosen the

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd as the way we introduce God’s love and grace to our children. The Catechesis is a Montessori-based approach where children can grow in their relationship with God through a deep engagement in scripture and

liturgy. One of our primary beliefs is that God and the child have a unique relationship with one another, and that the growth of this relationship should be assisted by the adult and is directed by the Spirit of God within the child.

With this approach, rooms called atria are prepared for the children. An atrium is a place of simplicity and order, where work and study spontaneously become meditation, contemplation, and prayer. The religious needs and capacities of the children guide the Catechist in instruction. The atrium allows the children to come into contact with

scripture and the liturgy of the church.

Our specially trained catechists work with our children in the atria, located on the main floor of the parish house. In addition to serving children ages 3-12 in our well-established atria, we now have a transitional toddler atrium in a space adjacent to the nursery. The Catechesis begins

at 9:30 am and ends at the exchange of the Peace (in the context of the 10:45 am Eucharist).

For more information on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, contact Anna Hurdle at [email protected].

Upcoming EventsMarch 14, 10:30 am

St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Join other families for coffee and doughnuts before we gather on

the front lawn to enjoy the parade.

April 3, 4:00 pmStations of the Cross for Children

SAVE THE DATEAugust 3 – 7

Vacation Bible School

Atrium Schedule Last day of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd from

Spring 2015 is Pentecost Sunday, May 24.

Solemn Communion Solemn Communion and Rite of Reconciliation

Retreat for ChildrenSaturday, May 2, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm

Solemn Communion is offered for children in second grade or higher to deepen their

understanding of what takes place during the Eucharist. (Young children in our Parish receive

communion after baptism but may want to know more about the sacrament as they get older.) It involves a series of classes and a reconciliation

retreat, culminating with the Solemn Communion Service, held this year on True Vine Sunday, May

3, where each child is welcomed into a deeper relationship with God. In the classes, adults and children wonder together about the mystery of

communion and the profound gift given to us in the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. It is an invitation to consider a singular moment in a child’s spiritual life

in new and age-appropriate ways.

FormationSt. Peter’s On Sundays, ages 3–12 participate in a Montessori-based Catechesis of the Good

Shepherd program before joining their families during 10:45 am worship at the Exchange of Peace to participate in the Holy Eucharist (Communion). Crib to two-year old care is available 8:30 am – 12:30 pm in the Infant and Toddler Center, which is open Sunday mornings and for special classes and events. Seasonal events for households with children are scheduled throughout the year.

Children



Through di-verse and

fun programs for our youth, we focus throughout the year on the four goals of the Journey to Adulthood (J2A) curriculum:

celebrate the transition from youth to adulthood, train young people in the skills of adulthood, explore the mystery of our faith heritage, and establish our expe-rience in the strength of community and liturgy. You will see them almost everywhere serving in every role available to their age and abilities. Since 1994, life at St. Peter’s has been enriched immensely through this specif-ic approach to forming (educating) our young people in preparation for holy living beyond their teenage years.

Trained volunteer youth leaders assist lay and or-dained staff members with the support necessary to offer a strong and vibrant program divided into three sections: Rite-13, J2A (includes Pilgrimage year) and Young Adults in the Church (YAC). Central to our communal nature is the gathering of younger and older teens alike on Sunday mornings, certain afternoons or evenings, and for overnight experiences, such as retreats, mission trips and diocesan events. The commitment that youth and their families make is rooted in the Baptismal Covenant and promises made to hold God and God’s Church at the center of their lives, passions, and involve-ments in the world.

To learn more about youth formation, including how to enroll your child, volunteer, or donate to seasonal fundraising, contact Lyn Holt, Director of Youth Forma-tion, 704-749-6148, [email protected].

Upcoming Events

January 19, 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm All-Youth Uptown Scavenger Hunt and Outreach Project

January 25, 9:30 – 10:30 amJ2A Parent and Youth Leader Meeting

February 1, 9:30 – 10:30 amRite 13 Parent and Youth Leader Meeting

February 1 “Souper Bowl Sunday” Donation Collection for Urban Ministry Center

February 7 Pilgrim Class Lock-in, 5:00 pm

February 28Rite 13 Class Lock-in, 5:00 pm

March 14, 4:00 – 8:00 pmYouth Parent and Leaders Social and Q&A with local family/

teen psychologistMarch 21, 5:00 pm

Pilgrim Class Outreach Lock-inMarch 22, 10:45 am

Youth Sunday April 18, 6:00 pm

Parish-wide Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction (Pilgrimage Fundraiser)

April 26, 10:45 amRite 13 Liturgy: Celebration of Manhood and Womanhood

April 26, 5:00 pmYouth for 6th - 12th grades – Dinner and presentation about teen

drinking/addiction by Charles OdellMay 1 – 3

All Youth Beach Trip (6th - 12th grades) to Cherry Grove, SCJune 7, 10:45 am

Presentation of Gifts to Pilgrims and Graduate Recognition June 16, 1:00 pm

Pilgrimage Send-Off Eucharist June 16 – June 26

Youth Pilgrimage to Spain (10th and 11th graders)

SAVE THE DATESJuly 12 – 15 – Episcopal Outreach Camp for Charlotte Convocation

Middle School YouthJuly 19 – 25 – HUGS Camp (9th grade and up)

July 27 – 31 – Mission Trip for Charlotte Convocation (High School Youth)

FormationSt. Peter’s Ages 12–18 participate in the transformative Journey to Adulthood (J2A)

program in addition to serving as acolytes (altar servers), lectors (readers), and Eucharistic ministers. Seasonal play, fellowship, service, and worship events are scheduled throughout the year. For more information contact the Director of Youth Ministry, Lyn Holt at [email protected]

Youth



FellowshipSt. Peter’s

We believe that sharing intentional time with others who make up the body of Christ is very important to a life in faith. Through weekly and seasonal fellowship offerings, we celebrate our holy interconnection as people of God. In one way or another, each gathering tends to remind us of how much we need one another and is likely to bring refreshment to those who come.

Groups and GuildsThe gift of making connections

20s/30s Fellowship (Young Adults)Kathryn Reddick, [email protected]

Senior Class Fellowship (55+)Hannah Craighill 704.334.6276,

Mary Griffin [email protected] Church Women (ECW)Kristine Reid [email protected],

Sydney Burgess [email protected]. Mary’s Guild

Ann Hinson [email protected] Shawl Knitters Fellowship

Linda Smith [email protected] Theology on Fourth Thursday Nights

The Reverend Ollie Rencher [email protected]“Holy Chow” Breakfast on Sundays at 8:30

Tate Sterrett [email protected] Hour on Sundays at NoonKristine Reid [email protected]

To connect with others or serve through these ministries, contact Mary Virginia Woodall,

Director of Ministry Development, 704.749.6151, mvwoodall@st-petersorg.

Events

Shrove Tuesday Festival, February 17 Community Agape Meal, March 29

High Sunday Brunch, April 12 Parish Picnic on Pentecost Sunday, May 24

Every week, once a month, or once

a year—there’s always something going on at St. Peter’s to bring us together for fellowship. Most gatherings include food because we love to eat together!

Fellowship reminds us that we are alive, especially as we interact with others, exchange stories, learn

from one another, and foster holy friendships to support individual journeys of faith.

Groups, guilds, and events of various sorts are essential aspects of life at St. Peter’s. Some offerings are regular while others are seasonal and even last-minute.

You are encouraged to show up first and ask questions later—or ask questions first and then show up. Whatever your approach, your presence will be a gift and others will be glad to welcome you.

Sunday Morning Hospitality RoomNeed a place to have a quiet conversation, read the paper, informally connect with other parishioners?

Beginning January 4, we will offer a “hospitality room” with fresh brewed coffee and comfortable seats in the Parlor. Occasionally, we may surprise you by offering a

structured conversation on a relevant topic.



Rooted in Christ’s words, “just as you did it to one of the least of these who

are members of my family, you did it to me,” outreach and social justice ministries are integral to life at St. Peter’s. As part of our Baptismal Covenant, we seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbors as ourselves, and strive for justice and peace among all people, respecting the dignity of every human being. The desire to serve our community has spanned the generations of our church. In 1876, the St. Peter’s Hospital and Home for the poor sick was started and in 1891, Good Samaritan Hospital opened exclusively for the treatment of black patients. Today, our programs and actions associated with reconciliation are examples of how we plant communal

seeds that will keep us in the business of justice and relationship building. Among many relationships, we support the Charlotte Pride Parade and AIDS Walk, the Episcopal Church’s “Seeing the Face of God” anti-racism seminar, and Mecklenburg Ministries, which promotes interfaith relationships, fosters racial and ethnic understanding, and inspires collaboration to address social issues. Last year, we became involved with the North Tryon Vision and Master Plan process in partnership with the Foundation for the Carolinas and Charlotte Center City Partners to assist with future community development of the north end of Uptown. For several years, we have partnered with Trinity Episcopal School to maintain a Community Garden on 8th Street in Uptown adjacent Myers Street. Last year, the garden produced more than 1,000 pounds of fresh, healthy food to feed hungry neighbors through Friendship Trays. To get involved with this innovative initiative, contact Nancy Duncan at [email protected]. Through these and a wide variety of outreach and social justice initiatives, we strive to deepen our commitment to servant ministries and invite all to share in this rewarding work.

Servant Ministry

St. Peter’s

Get InvolvedAugustine Literacy Project

Charlotte Family Housing

Crisis Assistance Ministry

Episcopal Farmworker Ministry

Episcopal Relief and Development

Habitat for Humanity

Samaritan House

Florence Crittenton of North Carolina

Thompson Child and Family Focus

Urban Ministry Center

Loaves and Fishes

Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN)

St. Peter’s Community Garden

Supportive Housing Communities

Latin American Coalition

North Carolina Justice Center

Contact St. Peter’s Servant Ministries Coordinator ([email protected], 704-332-7746) to connect with our outreach

and social justice ministry partners and/or serve with others from St. Peter’s.

Partners in Ministry New since November 2014

Latin American CoalitionNorth Carolina Justice Center

BeYond our doors



MusicSt. Peter’s

The St. Peter’s Choir leads worship weekly with the great musical traditions of the church, from early

music to music composed in the modern era, including music composed especially for St. Peter’s. The St. Peter’s Choir also provides music for special feast days beyond the Sunday morning schedule such as Advent Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, occasional Evensongs, Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and the Great Vigil of Easter, concluding with Easter morning.

Twice, the St. Peter’s Choir has traveled to Washington, D.C. (2001 and 2006) to sing at Washington National Cathedral and, with The Choir School at St. Peter’s,

recorded a CD, “New Music at St. Peter’s.” The 2010 addition of our new organ, “C. B. Fisk Opus

136,” has enhanced worship and challenged the St. Peter’s Choir to partner equally with this magnificent instrument.

The St. Peter’s Choir consists of 40 volunteer choristers and four section leaders. Repertoire prepared by the St. Peter’s Choir is serious and challenging. Choristers need a good command of music reading, interpretation, and the ability to give grace to phrases and meaning to poetry.

The St. Peter’s Choir rehearses weekly for two hours on Thursday evenings and one hour each Sunday morning. Additional rehearsals are scheduled as necessary. Independent preparation is expected and staff members are available to assist.

The Evensong Choir at St. Peter’s sings traditional evensong services and provides an opportunity for highly

skilled and responsible musicians to participate with a high standard of performance and a minimum of rehearsal time.

Choristers receive music for upcoming services two weeks in advance. It is then their responsibility to learn the music. On the day of the service, there is a two-hour rehearsal at which the ensemble comes together to polish the music. The evensong service follows at 5:00 pm.

This project is designed for those whose schedule will allow them to participate in only one or two of the services. It is our hope that singers will enjoy themselves and return as often as possible

To schedule an interview/audition, contact Director of Music and Organist Ben Outen, at [email protected].

A longstanding history of musical excellence enhances life at St. Peter’s. Whether one might experience the inspiring music for worship or performances of The Choir School at St. Peter’s (est. 1993) or the eclectic Center City Concerts at St. Peter’s (est. 2013), the gift of music is readily available at the corner of Tryon and Seventh streets.

It is our belief that music has the unique capacity to transcend most things, to heal broken-ness, enliven hearts, and connect people with God and one another. It is our hope that you will “taste and see” the goodness of life through music.



StaffLaurie Haynes Burlington Director of Children’s Formation

(part-time) [email protected] • 704-749-6155

Leigh Dixon Parish Administrator [email protected] • 704-749-6142

Joy Floyd After-hours Receptionist (part-time) [email protected] • 704-332-7746

Lyn Holt Director of Youth Formation [email protected] • 704-749-6148

Anna Hurdle Sunday Catechesis Coordinator (Children) (part-time) [email protected] • 704-749-6156

Kay Johnson Managing Director, The Choir School at St. Peter’s [email protected] • 704-749-6146

Elizabeth Lenti Assistant Organist and Choirmaster Assistant Director, The Choir School at St. Peter’s [email protected] • 704-749-6147

Dishawn Muldrow After-hours Receptionist (part-time) [email protected] • 704-332-7746

Kevin Nunnery Facilities [email protected] • 704-749-6155

Ben Outen Director of Music and Organist Founding Director, The Choir School at St. Peter’s [email protected] • 704-749-6145

The Reverend Ollie V. Rencher Rector [email protected] • 704-749-6141

The Reverend Joslyn Ogden Schaefer Associate Rector [email protected] • 704-749-6150

The Reverend L. Murdock Smith, PhD Assisting Priest (retired) [email protected] • 704-749-6141

The Reverend Jonathan E. Soyars Assisting Priest (non-stipendiary) [email protected] • 704-749-6141

Mary Virginia Woodall Director of Ministry Development [email protected] • 704-749-6151

Volunteer ReceptionistsBob Atkins, Nick Burnett, Tina Coelho, Sue Coonen, Kathy Cress, Diana Gibbs, Phyllis Ferguson, Carolyn Fitzgerald, Kitty Hughes, Pat Markel, Hulene McLean, Toni Moore, Kathleen Mundle, Nancy Sarazen.

The Vestry (Lay Leadership Council)Class of 2015: Sam Bowles, Mark Boyd, Sam Gardner, Amy Dillon King — Class of 2016: Des Keller, Dave Lavoie, Nelda Leon, Irma Hoffman — Class of 2017: Candace Armstrong, Abigail Cudabac, Paul Keller, Kristine Reid

The Choir School at St. Peter’s is an auditioned community choir with a mission to enrich young

lives through excellent, rigorous music education and choral performance. Founded in 1993 by Artistic Director Ben Outen and Managing Director Kay Johnson, the school has grown to include five choirs and serves dozens of talented young people between the ages of seven and 18 each year.

The school offers choristers a remarkable foundation of vocal skills, musicianship, language and poise. It also offers them the opportunity to develop practical skills like teamwork, self-discipline and leadership.

Choristers come from every background and diverse neighborhoods and represent more than 30 zip codes. They attend public, charter, private and home schools. Some come from families native to Charlotte and some from families new to the United States. What they hold in common are talent, commitment and a love of singing.

The Choir School’s distinguished alumni include organists, composers, choirmasters and performers as well as educators, therapists, business and nonprofit professionals, scholars, and volunteer leaders.

The choirs perform in concert at St. Peter’s and throughout Charlotte, as well as with partner arts organizations that include Opera Carolina and Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. They travel each summer, performing for audiences throughout the Southeast United States. Every four years the MasterSingers travel to Europe to perform. The choirs also offer sacred music during worship at St. Peter’s.

To arrange an audition, please contact Kay Johnson at 704-749-6146.

Center City Concerts at St. Peter’s (CCCSP) offered

its first concert in October of 2013 as part of a concert series partnership with Music at St. Alban’s in Davidson, North Carolina. In July of 2014, CCCSP was incorporated as a non-profit organization established to offer a broad range of musical concerts for the community’s enrichment, education, and enjoyment. Most concerts of its nine-month season are performed at noon on the third Mondays of the month; some concerts are scheduled for Sunday afternoons and weeknights. A variety of music lovers attend performances because a diverse repertoire of excellent music is offered throughout each season. The 2014-2015 season schedule appears in the guide or at www.centercityconcerts.org. Donations to support these “free” concerts are appreciated.

Membership at St. Peter’s St. Peter’s strives to be a place of radical welcome and hospitality.

We are constantly welcoming newcomers among us and finding ways to weave them into our vibrant community life. We host quarterly

Newcomers’ Luncheons where you can learn more about the mission and ministries of St. Peter’s. Also, each Fall we hold a Inquirer’s / Confirmation class to provide you with additional resources for

living into the Anglican path of Christianity. We encourage those who worship with us regularly to become baptized and/or confirmed members in order to participate fully in the spiritual life at St. Peter’s. To learn more about baptism, membership, or confirmation contact

Mary Virginia Woodall, Director of Membership Development ([email protected])



January – August 2015 Schedule of EventsDate Time Event

January 3 7:00 pm Parents of Young Children Social (Parishioner’s Home)

January 6 7:00 pm Feast of the Epiphany: Holy Eucharist

January 11 noon St. Peter’s Community Garden Seed-Starting Event (Parish Hall)

January 11 5:00 pm Evensong: Evensong Choir

January 19 noon Center City Concert: A Multicultural Celebration

January 25 5:00 pm Evensong: St. Peter’s Choir and MasterSingers (Organ Recital 4:30)

January 25 7:00 pm Outreach and Social Justice Soup Celebration

February 8 5:00 pm Evensong: Girls Tour Choir

February 16 noon Center City Concert: A. W. Duo with Eun Sun Lee

February 17 6:00 pm Shrove Tuesday Festival

February 18 7:00 am, noon, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm Ash Wednesday

February 21 8:30 – 12:30 pm Episcopal Church Women’s Retreat

February 21 6:00 pm The Serenade: The Choir School at St. Peter’s Fundraiser (Mint Museum)

February 22 8:00 am, 10:45 am, 6:15 pm First Sunday of Lent: The Great Litany

February 22 5:00 pm Evensong: Evensong Choir

March 6 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm God’s Tapestry: A Lenten Weekend of Reconciliation

March 7 8:30 am – 3:00 pm God’s Tapestry: A Lenten Weekend of Reconciliation

March 8 5:00 pm Evensong: Master Singers

March 14 10:30 am St. Patrick’s Day Parade Viewing

March 15 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm Parents of Youth Social (Parishioner’s Home)

March 16 noon, 7:30 pm Center City Concert: Organist Marilyn Keiser in Recital

March 22 5:00 pm Evensong: Last Monthly Evensong until September 2015

March 29 8:00 am, 10:45 am, 6:15 pm Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday

March 29 5:00 pm Community Agape Meal

April 2 noon, 7:00 pm Maundy Thursday

April 3 noon – 3:00 pm Good Friday Liturgy with Meditations and Music

April 3 4:00 pm Stations of the Cross for Children

April 4 8:00 pm The Great Vigil of Easter

April 5 7:00 am, 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 6:15 pm The Sunday of The Resurrection: Easter Day

April 6 - 9 all day Parish Offices Closed

April 12 noon High Sunday Brunch

April 13 - 15 National Workshop on Christian Unity

April 18 6:00 pm Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction to Support the Youth Pilgrimage

April 20 noon Center City Concert: The Timeline Jazz Quartet

April 20 - 24 St. Peter’s hosts April 22 evening National Workshop on Christian Unity (Citywide)

May 8 - 9 7:30 pm The Choir School at St. Peter’s Spring Concerts

May 18 noon Center City Concert: Ensemble Vermillian

May 24 8:00 am, 10:45 am, 6:15 pm The Day of Pentecost: Whitsunday

May 24 9:30 am Pentecost Celebration and Last Day of Spring Formation

May 24 noon Parish Picnic on Pentecost Sunday

August 3 - 7 9:00 am – noon Vacation Bible School

August 21 - 23 5:00 pm Friday to 1:00 pm Sunday Parish Retreat at Kanuga Conference Center

www.st-peters.org

St. Peter’s Episcopal ChurchA parish in the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina

115 West Seventh StreetCharlotte, North Carolina 28202704-332-7746www.st-peters.org

NON-PROFITU.S. Postage

PAIDCharlotte, NC

Permit No. 960


The seal of St. Peter’s was designed by parishioner Rob Smith. Based on Matthew 16:16–19, the Latin words “Tu es Petrus et super hanc petram

ædificabo ecclesiam meam” reflect the words of Jesus to Peter: “You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church.” The two keys symbolize more of Jesus’ words: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” “1834” signifies the year in which St. Peter’s was organized for worship before recognition as a parish church in the Diocese of North Carolina in 1844 and as the first Episcopal Church in Charlotte.

To learn more about the rich history of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, go to our website, www.st-peters.org.


Programs and Events at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Center City Charlotte2015 Winter, Spring and Beyond

Life at St. Peter's

Documents

Transcript of Life at St. Peter's