Great news for St. Paul's
Feb. 6, 2025
Dear family and friends of St. Paul’s,
We are blessed to announce that, beginning this Sunday (Feb. 9), the Revs. Joe and Kay Ashby will be joining St. Paul’s as our extended supply priests.
The Ashbys retired from their respective parishes – Joe from Grace Episcopal Church in Mansfield and Kay from St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Ashland -- a year ago. He’s a native of Kentucky and she of Arkansas, and they met while students at the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest. After serving parishes in Kentucky, Arkansas and Michigan, the couple arrived in Mansfield in 2006. Kay Ashby, who was ordained in 1991, became the part-time rector of St. Matthews shortly after they moved to Mansfield.
During the Ashbys’ time in Mansfield, Grace Church launched a capital campaign and expanded interfaith efforts as well its food pantry. Both Joe and Kay are committed to and excited by the social justice work of the church.
Kay also is a musician, and Joe is an avid bike rider. The couple’s son, Stephen, is the Episcopal priest at churches in Lyndhurst and Mayfield Village, and his wife is a United Church of Christ associate pastor in Kent; they have two daughters, 5 and 3.
And we have more good news.
Canon Jessie Gutgsell Dodson will be joining us as celebrant for our March 2 Holy Communion service. The Rev. Jessie is canon for the ordinary for the Diocese of Ohio and will be helping our search for new clergy leadership, along with Canon Audra Abt, canon of innovation and congregational development.
Thank you all for your prayers, interest, trust, support and questions. We will continue to do all we can to ensure everyone’s input is heard and valued as we take our next steps.
Sincerely,
The Vestry of St. Paul’s
Dear family and friends of St. Paul’s,
We are blessed to announce that, beginning this Sunday (Feb. 9), the Revs. Joe and Kay Ashby will be joining St. Paul’s as our extended supply priests.
The Ashbys retired from their respective parishes – Joe from Grace Episcopal Church in Mansfield and Kay from St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Ashland -- a year ago. He’s a native of Kentucky and she of Arkansas, and they met while students at the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest. After serving parishes in Kentucky, Arkansas and Michigan, the couple arrived in Mansfield in 2006. Kay Ashby, who was ordained in 1991, became the part-time rector of St. Matthews shortly after they moved to Mansfield.
During the Ashbys’ time in Mansfield, Grace Church launched a capital campaign and expanded interfaith efforts as well its food pantry. Both Joe and Kay are committed to and excited by the social justice work of the church.
Kay also is a musician, and Joe is an avid bike rider. The couple’s son, Stephen, is the Episcopal priest at churches in Lyndhurst and Mayfield Village, and his wife is a United Church of Christ associate pastor in Kent; they have two daughters, 5 and 3.
And we have more good news.
Canon Jessie Gutgsell Dodson will be joining us as celebrant for our March 2 Holy Communion service. The Rev. Jessie is canon for the ordinary for the Diocese of Ohio and will be helping our search for new clergy leadership, along with Canon Audra Abt, canon of innovation and congregational development.
Thank you all for your prayers, interest, trust, support and questions. We will continue to do all we can to ensure everyone’s input is heard and valued as we take our next steps.
Sincerely,
The Vestry of St. Paul’s
Continuing to serve the most vulnerable among us
In his post-election statement, Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe calls on Episcopalians to work and pray for justice, peace and the dignity of every human being. Click here for the complete letter and more on what the Episcopal Church stands for.
In his post-election statement, Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe calls on Episcopalians to work and pray for justice, peace and the dignity of every human being. Click here for the complete letter and more on what the Episcopal Church stands for.
From Mother Robin's desk: Fulfilling God's work at church and at home
In the season of Advent, we focus on our Lord who came but is yet to come again. It’s a time of expectation and hope that looks forward to a new creation and a new earth. “Advent calls Christians to live lives with an eye on the future – and an eye on the fulfillment of the work that God started in the revelation of Jesus Christ. This is an important reminder during the Advent season: We are not only looking forward to the commemoration of the birth of Christ, but we are the church expectant, waiting for God’s reconciliatory work to be fulfilled.” https:// www.episcopalchurch.org/bible-study/advent-1b/
As we move through this time of joy, hope, peace, and anticipation for our coming Christ, may we find ways to grow deeper in the knowledge of God and in carrying out the mission that God places before us all?
One way is to carry our Advent connection into the Christmas celebration. Since we are having a 7p.m. Christmas Eve service, we will not be coming back for a Christmas Day service. However, on pg. 15, you will find an outline for a Christmas in the Home service in which you can still share in the true meaning of Christmas with your loved ones on Christmas Day.
This service is meant to provide you with a resource that will make room for singing, and reflection around the Lord’s birth. And you can do it wherever you are and with whomever you are able. The purpose is to bring people together around the message of the greatest gift ever given and to celebrate that gift of Love in our lives. Hard copies will be made available at the church for you to take, and PLEASE take extra to share with other families. May you and your family have a meaningful and wonderful Advent and Christmas season.
As we move through this time of joy, hope, peace, and anticipation for our coming Christ, may we find ways to grow deeper in the knowledge of God and in carrying out the mission that God places before us all?
One way is to carry our Advent connection into the Christmas celebration. Since we are having a 7p.m. Christmas Eve service, we will not be coming back for a Christmas Day service. However, on pg. 15, you will find an outline for a Christmas in the Home service in which you can still share in the true meaning of Christmas with your loved ones on Christmas Day.
This service is meant to provide you with a resource that will make room for singing, and reflection around the Lord’s birth. And you can do it wherever you are and with whomever you are able. The purpose is to bring people together around the message of the greatest gift ever given and to celebrate that gift of Love in our lives. Hard copies will be made available at the church for you to take, and PLEASE take extra to share with other families. May you and your family have a meaningful and wonderful Advent and Christmas season.
Kwanzaa:
All things beautiful
All things beautiful
During Kwanzaa, families take time to reflect on the richness of the past, the potential of the present, and the promise of the future by capturing mambo yote mazuri, or “all things beautiful.”
Each night of Kwanzaa includes a gathering dedicated to one of the holiday’s seven principles, known as (Nguzo Saba). Central to this nightly observance is the lighting of the (kinara), a special candleholder with room for seven candles. Each night, you light a new candle — the one that corresponds to the principle for that day — on the kinara. The candles (mishumaa saba) come in three different colors: red, green, and black. The red symbolizes the struggles of the past, the black the African people, and the green the Earth and all the possibilities it holds.
What goes on the Kwanzaa table?
(Mishumaa Saba) the seven candles that represent the Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles which African people are urged to live by to rescue and reconstruct their lives in their own image and according to their own needs. (Kinara) the candle holder symbolic of our roots, our parent people -- continental Africans.
(Kikombe cha Umoja) the wooden unity cup is used to remind us to give thanks to our ancestors. (Mkeka) the placemat is symbolic of our tradition and history and therefore, the foundation on which we build.
(Mazao) These are symbolic of African harvest celebrations and of the rewards of productive and collective labor.
(Muhindi) ears of corn symbolic of our children and our future which they embody.
(Zawadi) gifts symbolic of the labor and love of parents and the commitments made and kept by the children.
Each night of Kwanzaa includes a gathering dedicated to one of the holiday’s seven principles, known as (Nguzo Saba). Central to this nightly observance is the lighting of the (kinara), a special candleholder with room for seven candles. Each night, you light a new candle — the one that corresponds to the principle for that day — on the kinara. The candles (mishumaa saba) come in three different colors: red, green, and black. The red symbolizes the struggles of the past, the black the African people, and the green the Earth and all the possibilities it holds.
What goes on the Kwanzaa table?
(Mishumaa Saba) the seven candles that represent the Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles which African people are urged to live by to rescue and reconstruct their lives in their own image and according to their own needs. (Kinara) the candle holder symbolic of our roots, our parent people -- continental Africans.
(Kikombe cha Umoja) the wooden unity cup is used to remind us to give thanks to our ancestors. (Mkeka) the placemat is symbolic of our tradition and history and therefore, the foundation on which we build.
(Mazao) These are symbolic of African harvest celebrations and of the rewards of productive and collective labor.
(Muhindi) ears of corn symbolic of our children and our future which they embody.
(Zawadi) gifts symbolic of the labor and love of parents and the commitments made and kept by the children.
Advent: Sharing a prayer each day even when we're apart
The St. Elizabeth Chapter of the Order of the Daughters of the King invites you to join us in prayer during the Advent season.
At 9 p.m. each evening, stop, take a minute, and say a prayer for the following:
unday: St. Paul’s Church
Monday: The shut-ins
Tuesday: Members of the clergy
Wednesday: The Homeless
Thursday: Victims of violence
Friday: Those in war-torn countries
Saturday: Victims of natural disasters
Thank you for participating. Serena Thurin, Chapter President
At 9 p.m. each evening, stop, take a minute, and say a prayer for the following:
unday: St. Paul’s Church
Monday: The shut-ins
Tuesday: Members of the clergy
Wednesday: The Homeless
Thursday: Victims of violence
Friday: Those in war-torn countries
Saturday: Victims of natural disasters
Thank you for participating. Serena Thurin, Chapter President
Flowers extend the beauty of Christmas throughout the church and beyond
Each Christmastide, the Chancel altar and side chapels at St. Paul’s are dressed in floral finery and greens to enhance the beauty of our Sanctuary and glorify God as we celebrate the Nativity of our Lord. This doesn’t happen through a miracle, or fairy dust and magic; rather it’s achieved through the generous memorial and thanksgiving gifts donated by parishioners to fund the effort. Through your generous donations, the Altar Guild is also able to deliver poinsettias to homebound parishioners after Epiphany, and -- through careful tending of the plants -- extend the “color” in the church throughout the bleak mid-winter of January as well.
However, all of the above can only be made possible by YOU! Please use the form below to indicate how you would like your contribution used (poinsettia size/quantity/roping/as a donation/as a purchase) and return it by Dec. 9 to Peggy in the office. Thank you for playing an important role in creating a beautiful visual backdrop as we celebrate our Christmas joy!
However, all of the above can only be made possible by YOU! Please use the form below to indicate how you would like your contribution used (poinsettia size/quantity/roping/as a donation/as a purchase) and return it by Dec. 9 to Peggy in the office. Thank you for playing an important role in creating a beautiful visual backdrop as we celebrate our Christmas joy!
Dress for Crazy Christmas on Dec. 22 and stay for the thrill of the greening of St. Paul's!
Breathe your Spirit over the whole earth and make us your new creation, the Body of Christ given for the world you have made.
In the fullness of time bring us, with all your saints, from every tribe and language and people and nation, to feast at the banquet prepared from the foundation of the world.
In the fullness of time bring us, with all your saints, from every tribe and language and people and nation, to feast at the banquet prepared from the foundation of the world.
The Prayers of the People for Veteran's Day
Compiled by the Rev. Jennifer Phillips
Celebrant: Thank you to all who served this country!
Leader: Governor of Nations, our Strength and Shield: we give you thanks for the devotion and courage of all those who have offered military service for this country:
For those who have fought for freedom; for those who laid down their lives for others; for those who have borne suffering of mind or of body; for those who have brought their best gifts in times of need.
On our behalf, they have entered into danger, endured separation from those they love, labored long hours, and borne hardship in war and in peacetime.
Lift up by your mighty Presence those who are now at war; encourage and heal those in hospitals or mending their wounds at home; guard those in any need or trouble; hold safely in your hands all military families; and bring the returning troops to joyful reunion and tranquil life at home;
Give to us, your people, grateful hearts and a united will to honor these men and women and hold them always in our love and our prayers; until your world is perfected in peace through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
Celebrant: Thank you to all who served this country!
Leader: Governor of Nations, our Strength and Shield: we give you thanks for the devotion and courage of all those who have offered military service for this country:
For those who have fought for freedom; for those who laid down their lives for others; for those who have borne suffering of mind or of body; for those who have brought their best gifts in times of need.
On our behalf, they have entered into danger, endured separation from those they love, labored long hours, and borne hardship in war and in peacetime.
Lift up by your mighty Presence those who are now at war; encourage and heal those in hospitals or mending their wounds at home; guard those in any need or trouble; hold safely in your hands all military families; and bring the returning troops to joyful reunion and tranquil life at home;
Give to us, your people, grateful hearts and a united will to honor these men and women and hold them always in our love and our prayers; until your world is perfected in peace through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
The Episcopal Church offers help as you sort through the issues and
candidates in the Nov. 5 election
candidates in the Nov. 5 election
Election Day is Nov. 5 and in Ohio, you can begin early voting by mail, drop boxes or in-person (at the board of elections) on Oct. 8.
We'll be seeing lots of ads and getting lots of information -- and misinformation -- between now and then, and it's easy to be overwhelmed.
So the Episcopal Church is offering a "Vote Faithfully Toolkit 2024" (click this link) to help us as we try to make our decisions in races for U.S. president, Congress and Senate. As importantly, in Ohio, we're also voting on Statehouse races, the Ohio Supreme Court and local judicial races, as well as Issue 1, which would change the political process by which the maps that determine who represents us in Congress are drawn. )
Below are the key dates in Ohio heading up to the election, and a link to a webinar with Bishop Michael Curry on Sept. 18.
And we offer here a letter from Bishop Anne on ways to keep the transformative love of Jesus in our minds and hearts as we grapple with our decisions.
Dear ones,
The prophet Micah records a dispute between God and God’s people. The resolution of this dispute is that the people ask what God wants of them, and God replies with words we now know well:
Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly with your God.
These words can seem long ago and far away as we dive headfirst into the fall and the heated election season while the polarization around us seems to grow more entrenched. The ceaseless parade of attack ads numbs us to the impact of this type of behavior and how it affects our hearts and souls. Political campaigns play on our fears with emotional appeals, pulling our attention further away from the transformative love of Jesus. In the midst of this, it can be easier to turn our focus elsewhere or put our heads down in an attempt to ignore the election season completely.
Yet God’s words as spoken through Micah remind us that our call as leaders (especially in times of dispute!) is to walk intentionally with God, which includes acting on behalf of others with kindness and justice. Always, God calls us into deeper relationship with God and with others. As you lead the congregations where you serve this season, know that you are not alone. My staff and I are praying for you with intention. We are planning for ways we can offer more opportunities for pastoral support for you, and we are compiling a list of election-related resources to assist you as you navigate these next many months. The monthly leadership calls will be a hub for conversation and prayer as needed, and our Peace and Justice webpage will post election resources as we gather them. We will let you know when these are up. Additionally, the Canons will be visiting clericus and Mission Area gatherings to be present for pastoral support, and to learn how we can best support each of you.
We will all gather in Perrysburg for Convention on November 8 (the Saturday after Election Day), which will be a wonderful way to keep our hearts and minds centered on God’s love and call to us to respond faithfully and intentionally with relationships with each other and God. With prayer, and with each other as a community of faith, we can keep our focus on God and our call to serve God’s people, no matter the tenor of the campaigns or the election outcome.
Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly with your God.
God’s Peace,
+Anne
The Rt. Rev. Anne B. Jolly
Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio
Theology and the meaning of voting
On Sept. 18, at 1 p.m., you can join Bishop Michael Curry and guests in a Webinar exploring the meaning behind voting from a theological perspective that centers this civic action as one expression of caring for one another and God’s creation.
Panelists will offer framing for healthy, faith-based civic engagement from the theoretical to the tangible, including addressing why it is important for Episcopal churches to leverage our resources to help our broader communities vote. In an election full of increasing pressures—disinformation, the risk of political violence, disenfranchisement, environmental concerns, and more—come learn how to navigate challenges while remaining focused in our preparations to cast our votes in this fall’s election.
Our panelists will provide an engaging discussion and direct attendees to resources that can help you encourage your parishioners and community to vote faithfully.
Panelists include: • Michael Curry - Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church; New York, New York • Willie Bennett - Senior Congregational Engagement Officer, Episcopal Health Foundation; Houston, Texas • Joyce Statz - Health and Justice Advocacy Network (HJAN), St. Matthew's Episcopal Church; Austin, Texas • Amy Coultas - Canon to the Ordinary, Diocese of Kentucky; Louisville, Kentucky • Alan Yarborough - Church Relations Officer, Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations; Washington, District of Columbia (moderator)
To register for the webinar, click on this link
Election Calendar in Ohio:
We'll be seeing lots of ads and getting lots of information -- and misinformation -- between now and then, and it's easy to be overwhelmed.
So the Episcopal Church is offering a "Vote Faithfully Toolkit 2024" (click this link) to help us as we try to make our decisions in races for U.S. president, Congress and Senate. As importantly, in Ohio, we're also voting on Statehouse races, the Ohio Supreme Court and local judicial races, as well as Issue 1, which would change the political process by which the maps that determine who represents us in Congress are drawn. )
Below are the key dates in Ohio heading up to the election, and a link to a webinar with Bishop Michael Curry on Sept. 18.
And we offer here a letter from Bishop Anne on ways to keep the transformative love of Jesus in our minds and hearts as we grapple with our decisions.
Dear ones,
The prophet Micah records a dispute between God and God’s people. The resolution of this dispute is that the people ask what God wants of them, and God replies with words we now know well:
Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly with your God.
These words can seem long ago and far away as we dive headfirst into the fall and the heated election season while the polarization around us seems to grow more entrenched. The ceaseless parade of attack ads numbs us to the impact of this type of behavior and how it affects our hearts and souls. Political campaigns play on our fears with emotional appeals, pulling our attention further away from the transformative love of Jesus. In the midst of this, it can be easier to turn our focus elsewhere or put our heads down in an attempt to ignore the election season completely.
Yet God’s words as spoken through Micah remind us that our call as leaders (especially in times of dispute!) is to walk intentionally with God, which includes acting on behalf of others with kindness and justice. Always, God calls us into deeper relationship with God and with others. As you lead the congregations where you serve this season, know that you are not alone. My staff and I are praying for you with intention. We are planning for ways we can offer more opportunities for pastoral support for you, and we are compiling a list of election-related resources to assist you as you navigate these next many months. The monthly leadership calls will be a hub for conversation and prayer as needed, and our Peace and Justice webpage will post election resources as we gather them. We will let you know when these are up. Additionally, the Canons will be visiting clericus and Mission Area gatherings to be present for pastoral support, and to learn how we can best support each of you.
We will all gather in Perrysburg for Convention on November 8 (the Saturday after Election Day), which will be a wonderful way to keep our hearts and minds centered on God’s love and call to us to respond faithfully and intentionally with relationships with each other and God. With prayer, and with each other as a community of faith, we can keep our focus on God and our call to serve God’s people, no matter the tenor of the campaigns or the election outcome.
Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly with your God.
God’s Peace,
+Anne
The Rt. Rev. Anne B. Jolly
Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio
Theology and the meaning of voting
On Sept. 18, at 1 p.m., you can join Bishop Michael Curry and guests in a Webinar exploring the meaning behind voting from a theological perspective that centers this civic action as one expression of caring for one another and God’s creation.
Panelists will offer framing for healthy, faith-based civic engagement from the theoretical to the tangible, including addressing why it is important for Episcopal churches to leverage our resources to help our broader communities vote. In an election full of increasing pressures—disinformation, the risk of political violence, disenfranchisement, environmental concerns, and more—come learn how to navigate challenges while remaining focused in our preparations to cast our votes in this fall’s election.
Our panelists will provide an engaging discussion and direct attendees to resources that can help you encourage your parishioners and community to vote faithfully.
Panelists include: • Michael Curry - Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church; New York, New York • Willie Bennett - Senior Congregational Engagement Officer, Episcopal Health Foundation; Houston, Texas • Joyce Statz - Health and Justice Advocacy Network (HJAN), St. Matthew's Episcopal Church; Austin, Texas • Amy Coultas - Canon to the Ordinary, Diocese of Kentucky; Louisville, Kentucky • Alan Yarborough - Church Relations Officer, Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations; Washington, District of Columbia (moderator)
To register for the webinar, click on this link
Election Calendar in Ohio:
- Military & Overseas Absentee Voting: Begins September 20
Deadline to Register to Vote: Oct. 7 (Boards open until 9:00 p.m.)
Early In-Person Voting: Oct. 8 and includes the two Saturdays and the two Sundays before Election Day.
Absentee Voting By Mail: Begins Oct. 8 - Election Day: November 5 (Polls Open 6:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.) If not returned by mail, absentee ballots must be received by your board of elections by 7:30 p.m.
Dear Friends,
I come before you today with a heavy heart to share the profound loss of both beloved member Linda Rotthoff and our dear son Anthony on October 9th. Words cannot fully express our pain, but we find solace in the hope we have in the Lord. In this time of grief, we are reminded of His promise to comfort those who mourn.
While our hearts ache with sorrow, we take comfort in the knowledge that both Linda and Anthony are now in the loving arms of our Savior. We hold onto the faith that one day we will be reunited, and until that day comes, we cherish the memories that will forever remain in our hearts.
Let us lean on each other and our faith as we navigate this difficult journey together. We invite you to join both the Rotthoff and Woodberry families in prayer, as we seek strength and healing through the love of God.
Services for Anthony D. Wilson:
Friday, October 18
10 a.m. Calling Hours
11 a.m. Funeral
New Bethel Baptist Church
1507 Hillman Street, Youngstown
Services for Linda Rotthoff:
Saturday, Nov. 2
12-3 p.m. calling hours, Paquelet Funeral Home, 1100 Wales Rd. NE, Massillon
5 p.m. Memorial Service, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 425 Cleveland Ave. SW, Canton
Thank you for your support and understanding during this time.
Mother Robin
I come before you today with a heavy heart to share the profound loss of both beloved member Linda Rotthoff and our dear son Anthony on October 9th. Words cannot fully express our pain, but we find solace in the hope we have in the Lord. In this time of grief, we are reminded of His promise to comfort those who mourn.
While our hearts ache with sorrow, we take comfort in the knowledge that both Linda and Anthony are now in the loving arms of our Savior. We hold onto the faith that one day we will be reunited, and until that day comes, we cherish the memories that will forever remain in our hearts.
Let us lean on each other and our faith as we navigate this difficult journey together. We invite you to join both the Rotthoff and Woodberry families in prayer, as we seek strength and healing through the love of God.
Services for Anthony D. Wilson:
Friday, October 18
10 a.m. Calling Hours
11 a.m. Funeral
New Bethel Baptist Church
1507 Hillman Street, Youngstown
Services for Linda Rotthoff:
Saturday, Nov. 2
12-3 p.m. calling hours, Paquelet Funeral Home, 1100 Wales Rd. NE, Massillon
5 p.m. Memorial Service, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 425 Cleveland Ave. SW, Canton
Thank you for your support and understanding during this time.
Mother Robin
Today we bless our four-legged (more or less are welcome too) friends at the Feast of St. Francis
At today's service, beginning at 10:30 a.m., St. Paul's offers the second of our special blessings of the animals. (The first was during First Friday downtown.) Everyone is welcome to bring their dogs, cats and other critters (or pictures of the same) for a blessing.
Remembering our Angels
"Earth has not sorrow that Heaven cannot heal"
- Thomas Moore
"Earth has not sorrow that Heaven cannot heal"
- Thomas Moore
Once a quarter, a service is offered to our parishioners, family, friends and Canton community to remember and celebrate our dear departed angels who have anniversaries of death during those months.
The next service will be held today, Sunday, Sept. 22 at 3 p.m. and will cover dates from July to September.
The next service will be held today, Sunday, Sept. 22 at 3 p.m. and will cover dates from July to September.
This week (and beyond) with St. Paul's
Sunday, July 14
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, Holy Eucharist, 10 a.m.
Daughters of the King meeting, 9 a.m. in the Guild Hall
Monday, July 15
Superheroes fun night, dress like your favorite, 6 p.m. in the Guild Hall
JULY PROJECT
The Daughters of the King is sponsoring a collection of men’s underwear to benefit Refuge of Hope. There is a need for briefs and t-shirts of various sizes to give to their clients after showering. The DOK will provide a collection box in the narthex from July 7th to July 28th . Thank you for your participation in meeting the needs of the Refuge of Hope.
Sunday, July 14
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, Holy Eucharist, 10 a.m.
Daughters of the King meeting, 9 a.m. in the Guild Hall
Monday, July 15
Superheroes fun night, dress like your favorite, 6 p.m. in the Guild Hall
JULY PROJECT
The Daughters of the King is sponsoring a collection of men’s underwear to benefit Refuge of Hope. There is a need for briefs and t-shirts of various sizes to give to their clients after showering. The DOK will provide a collection box in the narthex from July 7th to July 28th . Thank you for your participation in meeting the needs of the Refuge of Hope.
A Prayer for 2024
As the dawn breaks on a new year, let us give thanks for all we hold dear: our health, our family and our friends.
Let us release our grudges, our anger and our pains, for these are nothing but binding chains.
Let us live each day in the most loving ways, the God-conscious way.
Let us serve all who are in need, regardless of race, color or creed.
Let us keep God of our own understanding in our hearts and to chant God's name each day.
Let us lead the world from darkness to light, from falsehood to truth and from wrong to right.
Let us remember that we are all one, embracing all, discriminating against none.
May your year be filled with peace, prosperity and love. May God's blessings shower upon you and bestow upon each of you a bright, healthy and peaceful new year.
- The Rev. Marcy Sheremetta
Let us release our grudges, our anger and our pains, for these are nothing but binding chains.
Let us live each day in the most loving ways, the God-conscious way.
Let us serve all who are in need, regardless of race, color or creed.
Let us keep God of our own understanding in our hearts and to chant God's name each day.
Let us lead the world from darkness to light, from falsehood to truth and from wrong to right.
Let us remember that we are all one, embracing all, discriminating against none.
May your year be filled with peace, prosperity and love. May God's blessings shower upon you and bestow upon each of you a bright, healthy and peaceful new year.
- The Rev. Marcy Sheremetta
Welcome new members
A New Members welcoming will take place during the Easter Sunday Service, March, 31 at 10:30a. If you desire to officially become a member of St. Paul's, you will need to attend a session with Rev. Robin. Please call or text her at (330) 506-6647 to set up your appointment.
Palm Sunday began our Holy Week services with a blessing of the palms and processional around the church, to the original entrance, which first welcomed parishioners in 1923. For a video of the service, please click on our Worship tab.
By Heather Melton, UTO Staff Officer
This year our theme for Lenten materials is “40 Days of Grateful Presence” and a call to giving thanks for the many things in our lives we take for granted. Our hope is that during the 40 days of Lent we can all use gratitude to help us be more present in our daily lives. In order to do this, we’ve got the following materials for individuals and congregations:
This year our theme for Lenten materials is “40 Days of Grateful Presence” and a call to giving thanks for the many things in our lives we take for granted. Our hope is that during the 40 days of Lent we can all use gratitude to help us be more present in our daily lives. In order to do this, we’ve got the following materials for individuals and congregations:
- Daily text message prompt to notice and give thanks for something in your life that you might take for granted.
- Printable calendar with the same prompts as the daily text message that you can print out and hang on your fridge to mark the days until Easter.
- Lenten materials for families – this year we have a special 40 days coloring sheet from Kristen Wheeler to help kids mark off each day until Easter and a weekly prayer (similar to what many of us use during Advent) that individuals or families can say along their Lenten journey.
- Zoom book group – this Lent we’ll be reading “Thanks a Thousand” by A.J. Jacobs; it’s the story of what happened when he tried to thank everyone who contributed to his daily cup of coffee.
The spirit of Christmas continues
Join St. Tim’s every Wednesday this December for four classic Christmas films.
Dec. 6 7 p.m.:’A Christmas Carol,' 1951. The quintessential version starring Alastair Sim.
Dec. 13 7 p.m.:The Bishop’s Wife,' 1947. David Niven stars as a stressed out Episcopal bishop trying to build a cathedral. Also starring Loretta Young and Cary Grant.
Dec. 20 7 p.m.: The Holly and the Ivy,' 1952. A strong but humble English vicar dealing with his wayward family at Christmas.
Dec. 29 7 p.m.: ‘Becket,' 1964. Peter ‘O Toole and Richard Burton star as Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket. Service of Holy Communion commemorating Becket preceding the film.
St. Timothy's Episcopal Church is at 226 Third st. SE in Massillon. Traditional English food and drinks will accompany the films.
Dec. 6 7 p.m.:’A Christmas Carol,' 1951. The quintessential version starring Alastair Sim.
Dec. 13 7 p.m.:The Bishop’s Wife,' 1947. David Niven stars as a stressed out Episcopal bishop trying to build a cathedral. Also starring Loretta Young and Cary Grant.
Dec. 20 7 p.m.: The Holly and the Ivy,' 1952. A strong but humble English vicar dealing with his wayward family at Christmas.
Dec. 29 7 p.m.: ‘Becket,' 1964. Peter ‘O Toole and Richard Burton star as Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket. Service of Holy Communion commemorating Becket preceding the film.
St. Timothy's Episcopal Church is at 226 Third st. SE in Massillon. Traditional English food and drinks will accompany the films.
In the season of Advent, we focus on our Lord who came but is yet to come again. It’s a time of expectation and hope that looks forward to a new creation and a new earth.
“Advent calls Christians to live lives with an eye on the future – and an eye on the fulfillment of the work that God started in the revelation of Jesus Christ. This is an important reminder during the Advent season: We are not only looking forward to the commemoration of the birth of Christ, but we are the church expectant, waiting for God’s reconciliatory work to be fulfilled.” https://www.episcopalchurch.org/bible-study/advent-1b/
As we move through this time of joy, hope, peace, and anticipation for our coming Christ, may we find ways to grow deeper in the knowledge of God and in carrying out the mission that God places before us all? One way to begin is to join in the Advent Bible Study Series that is being held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and repeated on Sundays at 9 a.m. Each week we will explore the assigned Advent readings and discuss ways to help make this season more meaningful. Won’t you come and join us? Hope to see you there!
Another way is to carry our Advent connection into the Christmas celebration. Since we are having a 7p.m. Christmas Eve service, which also happens to be a Sunday, we will not be coming back on Monday for a Christmas Day service.
However. below you will find an outline for a Christmas in the Home service in which you can still share in the true meaning of Christmas with your loved ones on Christmas Day. This service is meant to provide you with a resource that will make room for singing and reflection around the Lord’s birth. And you can do it wherever you are and with whomever you are able.
The purpose is to bring people together around the message of the greatest gift ever given and to celebrate that gift of Love in our lives. Hard copies will be made available at the church for you to take, and PLEASE take extra to share with other families. May you and your family have a meaningful and wonderful Advent and Christmas season. Peace and Blessings to you all!
“Advent calls Christians to live lives with an eye on the future – and an eye on the fulfillment of the work that God started in the revelation of Jesus Christ. This is an important reminder during the Advent season: We are not only looking forward to the commemoration of the birth of Christ, but we are the church expectant, waiting for God’s reconciliatory work to be fulfilled.” https://www.episcopalchurch.org/bible-study/advent-1b/
As we move through this time of joy, hope, peace, and anticipation for our coming Christ, may we find ways to grow deeper in the knowledge of God and in carrying out the mission that God places before us all? One way to begin is to join in the Advent Bible Study Series that is being held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and repeated on Sundays at 9 a.m. Each week we will explore the assigned Advent readings and discuss ways to help make this season more meaningful. Won’t you come and join us? Hope to see you there!
Another way is to carry our Advent connection into the Christmas celebration. Since we are having a 7p.m. Christmas Eve service, which also happens to be a Sunday, we will not be coming back on Monday for a Christmas Day service.
However. below you will find an outline for a Christmas in the Home service in which you can still share in the true meaning of Christmas with your loved ones on Christmas Day. This service is meant to provide you with a resource that will make room for singing and reflection around the Lord’s birth. And you can do it wherever you are and with whomever you are able.
The purpose is to bring people together around the message of the greatest gift ever given and to celebrate that gift of Love in our lives. Hard copies will be made available at the church for you to take, and PLEASE take extra to share with other families. May you and your family have a meaningful and wonderful Advent and Christmas season. Peace and Blessings to you all!
|
St. Paul's holiday services
Festive Christmas Eve Service, Sumdau. Dec. 24, with carols beginning at 6:30 p.m. Monday, December 25th, Christmas in the Home |
Bringing the Joy of Christmas home
Seeing the face of God in each other
The Commission for Racial Justice will offer this two-day training on November 30 and December 1 at Trinity Commons. This anti-racism training is required for all individuals in elected and appointed Diocesan positions, and it is also open to all members of the Diocese.
Space is limited. The cost of the training materials and food is covered by the Diocese of Ohio. Registration is required. For questions or more information, please contact Antoinette Taylor.
Space is limited. The cost of the training materials and food is covered by the Diocese of Ohio. Registration is required. For questions or more information, please contact Antoinette Taylor.
From Mother Robin's desk...
The month of August always kicks off with the fun and exciting Hall of Fame parade. The people of St. Paul’s help to add to the festivities by being a real presence in the community for the parade through their service. Thank you everyone who helped in any way. In August we continued to offer the 8:30a Rite I service along with two healing services. In addition to regular meetings that I have attended, I also took part in a training in Rochester, NY. The College for Congregational Development (CCD) training was to introduce several of us from the Diocese to congregational development tools. Thank you Bishop Anne for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of this new and exciting direction of our Diocese.
As we embark upon the month of September, excitement is in the air. It’s the time of the year when many of the recessed activities begin to resume, and it gives us the opportunity to implement new vision. Some of the this vision includes the return of the Common Cup at Communion. Beginning September 10th, we will again offer drinking from the chalice in addition to intinction. We will also return to the High Altar for the distribution of the bread and wine. September 10th also welcomes back the choir. We are glad to have them returning. Christian Education will be provided through a series of Adult Forums and Bible Studies. The schedule follows: PLEASE COME AND JOIN US!!!!
10 a.m. Wednesday Study Group Series: The Ten Commandments: Are They Still Relevant?
Sept. 6 – Introduction
Sept. 13 – Relationship Before the Law
Sept. 20– The First Table: Tuned Into God
Sept. 27– The Second Table: Turned Toward the Neighbor
Oct. 4– The Desires of the Heart
9 a.m. Third Sunday Formation Series: “Did You Know?”
Sept. 17 – Who is the Episcopal Church?
Oct. 15 – Liturgical Planning: Music, Readings, Liturgy
Nov. 19 – Foundations of Anglican Tradition: Sacraments, Gestures, Vestments, Symbols, Rituals
The month of August always kicks off with the fun and exciting Hall of Fame parade. The people of St. Paul’s help to add to the festivities by being a real presence in the community for the parade through their service. Thank you everyone who helped in any way. In August we continued to offer the 8:30a Rite I service along with two healing services. In addition to regular meetings that I have attended, I also took part in a training in Rochester, NY. The College for Congregational Development (CCD) training was to introduce several of us from the Diocese to congregational development tools. Thank you Bishop Anne for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of this new and exciting direction of our Diocese.
As we embark upon the month of September, excitement is in the air. It’s the time of the year when many of the recessed activities begin to resume, and it gives us the opportunity to implement new vision. Some of the this vision includes the return of the Common Cup at Communion. Beginning September 10th, we will again offer drinking from the chalice in addition to intinction. We will also return to the High Altar for the distribution of the bread and wine. September 10th also welcomes back the choir. We are glad to have them returning. Christian Education will be provided through a series of Adult Forums and Bible Studies. The schedule follows: PLEASE COME AND JOIN US!!!!
10 a.m. Wednesday Study Group Series: The Ten Commandments: Are They Still Relevant?
Sept. 6 – Introduction
Sept. 13 – Relationship Before the Law
Sept. 20– The First Table: Tuned Into God
Sept. 27– The Second Table: Turned Toward the Neighbor
Oct. 4– The Desires of the Heart
9 a.m. Third Sunday Formation Series: “Did You Know?”
Sept. 17 – Who is the Episcopal Church?
Oct. 15 – Liturgical Planning: Music, Readings, Liturgy
Nov. 19 – Foundations of Anglican Tradition: Sacraments, Gestures, Vestments, Symbols, Rituals
Once again, Mother Robin -- helped by Nancy Suba -- will be blessing the animals (in person or in picture form) during First Friday, Oct. 6, on Court Avenue next to the Arcadia restaurant and during our 10:30 service pn Oct. 8.
St. Paul's to host Church Women United
in Ohio gathering Sept. 16
in Ohio gathering Sept. 16
Living a Legacy of Love: Doing God's Work
Micah 6:8, 1 Peter 4:10-11 & Ephesians 2:10
St. Paul's will host a gathering of the Church Women United in Ohio Area B meeting Sept. 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Rev. Dr. Robin Woodberry will be presiding.
Speakers will include Jenny Dirkson and the Catholic Migrant Farm Workers and the day will include a service project: assembling hygiene kits. (Please bring items to share.)
The registration fee of $10 includes a light lunch. Please send a registration form and check to L.K. Williams, 143 Boardman-Canfield Rd., No. 198, Boardman, OH, 44512
Registration
Name:_____________________________________________________________
Denominational Title First Middle Last
Address_________________________ City______________ Zip__________
Phone number Home_______________________ Cell __________________
Email address___________________________________________________
Local Unit Name____________________ Office held ____________________
Make checks payable to Church Women United in Ohio; write Area B in the memo
Micah 6:8, 1 Peter 4:10-11 & Ephesians 2:10
St. Paul's will host a gathering of the Church Women United in Ohio Area B meeting Sept. 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Rev. Dr. Robin Woodberry will be presiding.
Speakers will include Jenny Dirkson and the Catholic Migrant Farm Workers and the day will include a service project: assembling hygiene kits. (Please bring items to share.)
The registration fee of $10 includes a light lunch. Please send a registration form and check to L.K. Williams, 143 Boardman-Canfield Rd., No. 198, Boardman, OH, 44512
Registration
Name:_____________________________________________________________
Denominational Title First Middle Last
Address_________________________ City______________ Zip__________
Phone number Home_______________________ Cell __________________
Email address___________________________________________________
Local Unit Name____________________ Office held ____________________
Make checks payable to Church Women United in Ohio; write Area B in the memo
Highlights for this Sunday: The Choir, Common Cup and Alexander Crummell
Dear friends,
The season is full of energy as we resume many of our regular activities in the Fall season. This Sunday, we welcome back our wonderful choir under the leadership of Edward T. Grimes.
We also will re-institute using the common cup during communion. This practice was halted during the Covid pandemic, but we feel that it is a good time to begin offering it again for those who choose to receive it in this manner. We will continue to have intinction (dipping) as an option.
In addition to the common cup, we will return to receiving communion at the high altar railing for those who are able to join us there. Otherwise, you can remain in your seat or at the Chancel steps and we will serve you accordingly.
Lastly, this is the Feast of Alexander Crummell and UBE (Union of Black Episcopalians) Sunday. There will be amazing music, prayers, and readings to help us uplift the work that Rev. Crummell did and continues to be carried out through the UBE.
We welcome you to come join us!
Rev. Dr. Robin R. Woodberry
Priest-in-Charge
St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Canton, OH
The season is full of energy as we resume many of our regular activities in the Fall season. This Sunday, we welcome back our wonderful choir under the leadership of Edward T. Grimes.
We also will re-institute using the common cup during communion. This practice was halted during the Covid pandemic, but we feel that it is a good time to begin offering it again for those who choose to receive it in this manner. We will continue to have intinction (dipping) as an option.
In addition to the common cup, we will return to receiving communion at the high altar railing for those who are able to join us there. Otherwise, you can remain in your seat or at the Chancel steps and we will serve you accordingly.
Lastly, this is the Feast of Alexander Crummell and UBE (Union of Black Episcopalians) Sunday. There will be amazing music, prayers, and readings to help us uplift the work that Rev. Crummell did and continues to be carried out through the UBE.
We welcome you to come join us!
Rev. Dr. Robin R. Woodberry
Priest-in-Charge
St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Canton, OH
St. Paul's additional summer services Sundays at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.
St. Paul's will be EXPANDING services for the months of July and August, including offering a second, earlier Sunday service in the garden and inviting you to healing services on four Wednesdays. Please join us at those services and at our 10:30 a.m. Sunday services.
Here's the complete schedule.
8:30 a.m. Rite I Service -- no music:
Here's the complete schedule.
8:30 a.m. Rite I Service -- no music:
- July 2nd
- July 9th in the Prayer Garden (weather permitting)
- July 16th
- July 23rd in the Prayer Garden
- July 30th
- Aug. 6th
- Aug. 13th in the Prayer Garden
- Aug. 20th
- Aug. 27th in the Prayer Garden
- July 2nd
- July 9th
- July 16th
- July 23rd
- July 30th
- Aug. 6th
- Aug. 13th
- Aug. 20th
- Aug. 27th
- July 19th
- Aug. 16th
You're invited to share in Deacon Robin's ordination to the priesthood
Courageous Conversations: What’s next?
Social Justice Book Group takes on the politics of racial resentment
The next book St. Paul’s Social Justice Book Group is sharing will be “Dying of Whiteness: How the Racial Resentment Is Killing America’s Heartland,” by Jonathan Metzl.
Metzl is a sociologist and psychiatrist who grew up in the Midwest and who, according to the Boston Globe, uses the book to examine how "segments of the American electorate support candidates and political ideas that run contrary to their own self-interest,” examining ways that “policies of right-wing backlash (pro-gun laws, cuts to education, social services, and health care) affect the lives and life expectancies of these people.”
Adds the Star Tribune, “Metzl has science and Heartland street cred on his side; as a public health instructor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, his clinical approach doesn't overshadow his skill as a wordsmith. As a result, Dying of Whiteness is a weighty but smooth read, devoid of polemics or jargon."
David Swope, who leads the book group, notes that this book and the last, “The Sum of Us,” focus on solutions by sharing the effect of racism on all. The book group will begin reading “Dying of Whiteness” in January. The book will be free to participants and available at Stark Fresh.
Social Justice Book Group takes on the politics of racial resentment
The next book St. Paul’s Social Justice Book Group is sharing will be “Dying of Whiteness: How the Racial Resentment Is Killing America’s Heartland,” by Jonathan Metzl.
Metzl is a sociologist and psychiatrist who grew up in the Midwest and who, according to the Boston Globe, uses the book to examine how "segments of the American electorate support candidates and political ideas that run contrary to their own self-interest,” examining ways that “policies of right-wing backlash (pro-gun laws, cuts to education, social services, and health care) affect the lives and life expectancies of these people.”
Adds the Star Tribune, “Metzl has science and Heartland street cred on his side; as a public health instructor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, his clinical approach doesn't overshadow his skill as a wordsmith. As a result, Dying of Whiteness is a weighty but smooth read, devoid of polemics or jargon."
David Swope, who leads the book group, notes that this book and the last, “The Sum of Us,” focus on solutions by sharing the effect of racism on all. The book group will begin reading “Dying of Whiteness” in January. The book will be free to participants and available at Stark Fresh.
Here are the current (Sept. 2022) Covid protocols for St. Paul's, effective April 25, 2022:
Overall guidance: Any person who is feeling ill, i.e. sneezing, coughing, body aches, fever or other symptoms of Covid, please do not attend services or other activities in St. Paul’s. We care about your health and that of the entire congregation.
Masks: Per CDC guidelines, masks are optional inside all parts of St. Paul’s. Vestry will continue to monitor the weekly community positivity rate and will revisit the masking policy if the level reaches 5 percent.
Choir-specific masking policies: Choir members will have the option to be unmasked per CDC recommendations, but the music director will monitor weekly Covid statistics; if the positivity rate jumps above 5 percent, he will re-institute a masking policy. Outbreaks of other illnesses will also be considered grounds to reinstitute masking; cold and flu numbers are expected to soar as people begin to unmask.
Congregational social distancing: Congregants are asked to space themselves safely.
Pew materials: The Book of Common Prayer, Hymnal, Lift Every Voice and Sing and pew cards are returned to the pews.
Sanitizing: The sexton will continue all sanitizing protocols, including those of the communal spaces of the church before each service. The use of Microban has been discontinued.
Contact tracing will continue for each activity within St. Paul’s. Temperature taking will be discontinued.
Communion: St. Paul's will continue to offer the body (consecrated bread), and Vestry endorses the reintroduction of the second kind of communion, the blood (consecrated wine), in consultation with the celebrant.
Coffee hour and other social events will continue in the Guild Hall with appropriate social distancing. Masks are optional. Windows will be open whenever weather permits.
Overall guidance: Any person who is feeling ill, i.e. sneezing, coughing, body aches, fever or other symptoms of Covid, please do not attend services or other activities in St. Paul’s. We care about your health and that of the entire congregation.
Masks: Per CDC guidelines, masks are optional inside all parts of St. Paul’s. Vestry will continue to monitor the weekly community positivity rate and will revisit the masking policy if the level reaches 5 percent.
Choir-specific masking policies: Choir members will have the option to be unmasked per CDC recommendations, but the music director will monitor weekly Covid statistics; if the positivity rate jumps above 5 percent, he will re-institute a masking policy. Outbreaks of other illnesses will also be considered grounds to reinstitute masking; cold and flu numbers are expected to soar as people begin to unmask.
Congregational social distancing: Congregants are asked to space themselves safely.
Pew materials: The Book of Common Prayer, Hymnal, Lift Every Voice and Sing and pew cards are returned to the pews.
Sanitizing: The sexton will continue all sanitizing protocols, including those of the communal spaces of the church before each service. The use of Microban has been discontinued.
Contact tracing will continue for each activity within St. Paul’s. Temperature taking will be discontinued.
Communion: St. Paul's will continue to offer the body (consecrated bread), and Vestry endorses the reintroduction of the second kind of communion, the blood (consecrated wine), in consultation with the celebrant.
Coffee hour and other social events will continue in the Guild Hall with appropriate social distancing. Masks are optional. Windows will be open whenever weather permits.
Social Justice Book Group's
moves next the words of Frederick Douglass
moves next the words of Frederick Douglass
The Social Justice Book Group has finished with "Read Until You Understand" -- though it's likely to remain a part of the context of the group for many discussions to come.
Up next is the "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass," the dramatic autobiography of the formerly enslaved man who came to be the leading voice of the abolitionist movement.
Up next is the "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass," the dramatic autobiography of the formerly enslaved man who came to be the leading voice of the abolitionist movement.
Senior Warden on ‘Christianity for the Rest of Us’
On Easter Sunday, I gave my Vestry Moment and presented to the Congregation a challenge. It was a challenge that Vestry voted on to have the Congregation read the book “Christianity for the Rest of Us.” On May 28th, I passed out copies to all who were present and urged them to read it. For the next few Sundays, I will be passing out copies to those who have not received one already. The books are paid for, and you do not have to pay for them.
Why are we doing this?
Several years ago, St. Paul’s was presented with an idea of the Doomsday Clock, that because of our aging Congregation that unless we changed some things that we would die. This image has been stuck in our heads ever since. Unfortunately, we have watched our Congregation continue to age with little change and dwindle away gradually.
This must stop!
This book, “Christianity for the Rest of Us,” is a study of mainline Protestant Churches (Episcopal, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Methodist, United Church of Christ, etc.) that were dying but were able to turn themselves around and THRIVE.
After reading this book, Vestry felt excited and energized! These Churches that were profiled in this book did not rely on rock music and the types of things that new non-denominational mega-churches rely on, but kept to what we, as Episcopalians, hold dear: our Liturgy, our values, our worship. However, while reading the book, the Churches that the author, Diana Butler Bass, held up to us did not do several things the way that we do. But I was energized several times while reading and thinking, “Yes, we do that, but maybe not as good as we can be.”
An example: Our Mission Statement that Vestry ratified at our February Retreat is that we should be “Radically Welcoming” (following the lead of Bishop Curry). Well, we do welcome new people to our Church, but do we extend that welcome to ALL people? How many are escorted to Coffee Hour? How many are addressed by name on the second time they come? How many are left out at Coffee Hour because every table has the same closed circle of friends that newcomers are uncomfortable to breach? How many are not welcomed because they have not been invited? How can we be better at our Welcoming?
In this book, there are many examples of Churches, just like us, that were dwindling that CHANGED something, that brought new members, that brought new LIFE, that brought a new VISION.
Starting in June, we will be having a series of Coffee Hour discussions about this book and what it might imply for the future of St. Paul’s. The Vestry and I ask for your efforts to read this book and to give us your input. Together, we will search and find the ways that St. Paul’s will grow into the future.
Thank you,
David Lewis
On Easter Sunday, I gave my Vestry Moment and presented to the Congregation a challenge. It was a challenge that Vestry voted on to have the Congregation read the book “Christianity for the Rest of Us.” On May 28th, I passed out copies to all who were present and urged them to read it. For the next few Sundays, I will be passing out copies to those who have not received one already. The books are paid for, and you do not have to pay for them.
Why are we doing this?
Several years ago, St. Paul’s was presented with an idea of the Doomsday Clock, that because of our aging Congregation that unless we changed some things that we would die. This image has been stuck in our heads ever since. Unfortunately, we have watched our Congregation continue to age with little change and dwindle away gradually.
This must stop!
This book, “Christianity for the Rest of Us,” is a study of mainline Protestant Churches (Episcopal, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Methodist, United Church of Christ, etc.) that were dying but were able to turn themselves around and THRIVE.
After reading this book, Vestry felt excited and energized! These Churches that were profiled in this book did not rely on rock music and the types of things that new non-denominational mega-churches rely on, but kept to what we, as Episcopalians, hold dear: our Liturgy, our values, our worship. However, while reading the book, the Churches that the author, Diana Butler Bass, held up to us did not do several things the way that we do. But I was energized several times while reading and thinking, “Yes, we do that, but maybe not as good as we can be.”
An example: Our Mission Statement that Vestry ratified at our February Retreat is that we should be “Radically Welcoming” (following the lead of Bishop Curry). Well, we do welcome new people to our Church, but do we extend that welcome to ALL people? How many are escorted to Coffee Hour? How many are addressed by name on the second time they come? How many are left out at Coffee Hour because every table has the same closed circle of friends that newcomers are uncomfortable to breach? How many are not welcomed because they have not been invited? How can we be better at our Welcoming?
In this book, there are many examples of Churches, just like us, that were dwindling that CHANGED something, that brought new members, that brought new LIFE, that brought a new VISION.
Starting in June, we will be having a series of Coffee Hour discussions about this book and what it might imply for the future of St. Paul’s. The Vestry and I ask for your efforts to read this book and to give us your input. Together, we will search and find the ways that St. Paul’s will grow into the future.
Thank you,
David Lewis
“I don’t want to work for God like some kind of nice boss. ... I want to live with God, now and forever. Evangelism is joining God in whatever God is doing in the world.”
The Rev. Dr. Tricia Lyons
The Rev. Dr. Tricia Lyons
Memories of St. Paul's Past
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|