Quiet Focus

Grace Episcopal Church

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Grace Notes

30 August 2012

I spent last week on vacation up North, in woodland beside a lake.  The location was remote enough that the first thing I noticed was how quiet it was.  It’s hard to find quiet.  Indeed, some people seem to be threatened by quiet, so they always have some kind of noise in the background, like a TV on when they are not even watching it.  I am not a good contemplative prayer, but what I do find when I can attain quiet is that I pay much better attention to everything around me, and in this I pay much better attention to God.

Perhaps some people are threatened by quiet because they have to pay attention.  Paying attention means that we might hear something, and in quiet we cannot dismiss what we hear as background noise.  The opposite of background noise may not be stillness; it may be a message, and when we hear a message that cannot be dismissed as background noise, then the choice becomes how we respond to the message.

God wants us to pay attention.  It is, unfortunately, most often difficult to attain stillness, and even if we do, we may (like me) not be very good at staying there.  But, the point is to determine how we can pay attention to God.  If you are like me, seeking stillness might not be useful, but being intentional about how to seek God’s will allows for discernment.  For example, if you set aside a time period every day for the reading of Scripture, you’ll find that a pattern emerges in your reading.  The “dots are connected” to not only reveal more about God to you but to reveal what His will is for you.  And then there’s another “dot” to connect to what has been revealed to you.  It is your own prayer.  It is the response of a loving heart which invites God to speak more, which learns to say less and listen more in prayer.

Luke records how when Paul returned to Judea he was shunned by those who remembered him as a persecutor.  But when (through Barnabas) Paul was able to function in ministry, Luke records that the Church “... had peace and was built up; and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit it was multiplied” (Acts 9.31).  Notice what happened?  Believers paid attention to God.  That’s what it means to walk in the fear of the Lord.  And when they paid attention they received the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and the Church prospered.

Paying attention can be threatening, because then we have to respond.  But, consider that God speaks even when we do not pay attention.  For example, the next time you get uncomfortable in a social or business setting because a topic has come up that you believe relates to how we relate to God–the next time you feel a little embarassed that you might have to say something about belief or (heaven forefend!) right and wrong–this very “embarassment” is the Holy Spirit convicting you.  When we pay attention, we hear God.  And when we listen He prompts us to do His work.  He will grant His power.

Choir rehearsals resume!  The choir will resume rehearsals at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, 5 September.  (Full choir presence at worship resumes on 9 September.)  If you are new to the choir, please contact Ben Dobey for directions about rehearsals.

Pictorial Directory:  The pictorial directory photographic sessions are scheduled for 21 and 22 September.  Please visit the parish website to schedule your appointment.  You will also receive an automated telephone call from the parish, which will provide details of how to schedule your appointment.

Grace Abounds:  See EYC.  A “damsel in distress” wishes to thank Dave Kock for his help during coffeee hour, in getting a stuck trailer hitch out of a somewhat rusty receiver, to allow for the mounting of a cargo carrier for vacation.

Please take the opportunity to notify the office of any member or friend of the parish to whom we owe thanks, in order that we can publicize this in the weekly newsletter.

Episcopal Youth Community:  EYC held a back-to-school beach party on 25 August, with thirty-five youth and adults in attendance.  Please thank Nick Whitford and Bobbi Kraft for getting this organized.

Biblical Literacy:  The Bible Challenge will not meet on Tuesday, 4 September.  Fr. Karl will be attending a clergy funeral in Milwaukee.  Bible study will meet on Thrusday, following the 9 a.m. Mass.

All Saints’, Elkhart Lake:  All Saints’ will hold the last service for this season on this Sunday.  Please keep this ministry in your prayers.  On Sunday, 16 Septemberm following the 10:15 a.m. service, a reception will be held in St. Nicholas Hall to honor the long service of Fr. Ken Okkerse and Grace Okkerse.

Music this week:

Prelude                                    Partita on ‘Hymn to Joy’                                            John G. Barr

Entrance Hymn 376                “Joyful, joyful we adore thee”

Offertory Hymn 556               “Rejoice, ye pure in heart”

Communion Hymn 660          “O Master, let me walk with thee”

Closing Hymn 561                  “Stand up, stand up for Jesus”

Postlude                                  Fughetta & Finale on ‘Hymn to Joy’                          John G. Barr

Parish Notices

§  No Potluck or Bible Challenge: Fr. Schaffenburg and Elizabeth will be attending the funeral of Fr. Tom Winslow in Milwaukee on September 4^th. The potluck dinner and Bible Challenge Bible study is cancelled for that evening.

§  Sunday School Registration and Ice Cream Social: Come and join the fun! Wednesday, September 5, 2012 from 6:30-7:30pm. Come and enjoy an ice cream sundae, meet the teachers and visit the classrooms. There will be registration forms to fill out and calendar information available. Registration will also be available on the first day of Sunday School, September 9^th.

§  Kick Off Sunday: September 9^th We will Kick Off a new academic year here at Grace Church. The Sunday School includes 4K-8^th grade will meet at 9:00am. They will be Weaving God’s Promises throughout the year with lessons in Old  Testament, New Testament and the Church Year. The High School Group will be meeting Sunday evenings from 5-7pm and will be practicing all aspects of Discipleship. The Sunday morning adult class will be looking at The New Atheism led by Fr. Schaffenburg. Catechumenate will begin Monday, September 17 at 6:00pm. If you are interested in Catechumenate there is a sign-up sheet in the Narthex.

§  Farewell to Fr. Ken & Grace Okkerse: Sunday, September 16^th after the 10:15am service. We will be celebrating the ministry of Fr. Ken & Grace and sending them off to a new life with gratitude for all they have done here at Grace Church. They will be moving to Menasha on September 4^th to be closer to family. Please join in the celebration by signing up to bring sweets or savories for a Gala Reception and then stay to help clean up. There is a sign-up sheet on the Narthex table.

§  The Parish Directory Update: An “almost final” draft and is located on the narthex table.  If you have not checked your entry, please do so as soon as possible. We plan to have it available at the annual meeting on September 30. This is different than the pictorial directory, which will be distributed sometime early in the new year.

§  Pictorial Directory Update: Many thanks to all of you who have already signed up for your photography session. The participation to date has exceeded our time frames and so another date has been added: Monday, October 1 from 2-9.  There are still some openings on Friday, Sept 21 and Saturday September 22. Please visit the parish website (www.gracesheboygan.com) and click on the link to register (or call Barb MacEwen 920.467.6909 and she will assist.) Remember you do get a free 8x10 and a copy of the directory for your participation in this church family activity. AND should you decide to purchase any pictures (but no obligation) you will get $10 off AND if you bring canned goods for our Holy Roller Wagon the day of your sitting you will receive another $5 off!  How great is that?!

§  Annual Meeting Reports: If you are in charge of anything, please write a short report to be included in the Annual Report and send it to the office office@gracesheboygan.com by Thursday September 20^th. Thank you so much.

§  Parish Annual Meeting: Our Annual meeting will be September 30, 2012. We will begin with Low Mass with hymns at 9:00am followed by the meeting in the church at 10:15. We will conclude the morning with an all parish potluck at 11:45. If you are in charge of anything, please write a short report to be included in the Annual Report and send it to the office. There is a sign-up sheet on the table in the Narthex. We will also need a team of people to clean up. Please mark your calendars now.

§  Call for Vestry Nominations: Vestry elections will be held on Sunday, 30 September, at the parish annual meeting. We need at least six nominees, with names provided to the parish office by 16 September. You can nominate another person or yourself. To run for Vestry you must be a qualified elector of the parish, which means that: (1) You are regular in your attendance on worship;(2) You have received Holy Eucharist at least once in the prior year;(3) You are active in your support of the parish through a pledge or some other form of giving; and (4) Your are at least sixteen years of age. Vestry members are called to lead. Be prepared in the election process to provide a brief biographical sketch which allows your fellow parishioners to better understand your relationship with God and His Church, and your call to lead. Vestry members are called to commitment, and are expected to attend twelve meetings throughout the year (once per month).

§  Walsingham Pilgrimage: This is the 61^st Annual Pilgrimage to the American Proto-Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. On Friday, October 12^th there will be a Quiet Day with meditations at 12:00 and 3:00pm concluding with Solemn Evensong at 6:00pm. The Rev. Arnold W. Klukas will lead the meditations. On Saturday, October 13^th The Rt. Rev. Russell E. Jacobus will celebrate at the Procession and Solemn Pontifical Mass at 10:30am. The Rt. Rev. Lindsay G. Urwin, OGS will preach. Bishop Urwin is the, Administrator of the Anglican Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, Walsingham, England. If you can help with the cost of the Pilgrimage by donating for music and for flowers please make you check out to Grace Church with “Pilgrimage music and flowers” in the memo. Thank you so much.

§  Coats for Kids: is a community service campaign. Area residents are asked to donate clean coats in good repair. We accept coats of all sizes for people of all ages, with the need being greatest for children’s coats. These coats will be distributed to Sheboygan county residents who would otherwise go without. Drop off location: Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home, 1535 S. 12 St. Sheboygan. September 4 –October 24 Monday–Friday 8:30am–4:00 pm. Distribution Location: Salvation Army, 710 Pennsylvania Ave. Sheboygan. Friday, October 26, from 9:00am–1:00pm and Thursday, November 1 from 2:00–6:00pm.

§  Break the Language Barrier: He gives you flowers when what you really want is a hug. She spends time with you but what you really need is a home-cooked meal. The problem isn’t a lack of love, it’s your love language! Join us as we discover the five different ways that people express and receive love. Apply the right principles and soon you’ll know the joy of being able to express your love-and feel truly loved in return.  Based on the book The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. Registration is required for this free program. Join us at Great Marriages 612 Center Avenue, Sheboygan Saturday, October 13, 2012, 9:30am – noon Call GMSC at 920-783-3660 to register.

§  Friends of the Poor Walk: Save the Date September 29, 2012 for the 5th Annual “Friends of the Poor Walk " sponsored by Sheboygan County SVdP.  The 2-mile walk takes place at Sheboygan South High School and begins at 10:00.  This year we are focusing on "Caring4Kids".  The Sheboygan SVdP store has given out 150 twin size air beds in the first 6 months of the year, Mary's room has given out approximately 100 Pack 'N Plays instead of cribs because of rising costs of cribs, Plymouth area outfitted 48 kids for winter last year, and Sheboygan Falls has 548 students that receive free lunches during the school year.  Help us make sure that every child in the area has a good bed, warm clothing and the necessities for a great start in life.  Support the walk by either participating in the walk, and/or getting pledges. More details coming soon or contact Dennis 920-457-4844 ext. 11 to find out how you can help us Care4Kids. 

Man/Woman on Fire

Grace Episcopal Church

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Grace Notes

23 August 2012

A thread is runs through the lessons for this coming Sunday.  It is one of choice, of free will, and of active discipleship, of choosing to serve God.  If you want to see the world and the Church decline, don’t do anything.  If you come to church and just sit and listen, but don’t let it change how you live and what you say, decline will follow.  But, doing nothing, being passive, will be hard to do if you make the personal choice to serve the Lord, and if you accept the Holy Spirit as your comforter and guide.

If you want to see the Church “decline then focus on your love for the Church as a familiar and comfortable institution.  Focus on your love for the Church rather than on your love for Jesus Christ. You can just show up and go through the motions.  But Jesus won’t let you remain passive if and when you truly give your heart to Him.  No, He’s going to set you on fire.  The One who baptizes with fire and with the Holy Spirit (Luke 3.16), will claim you and embolden you when you do one thing:  When you choose Him, and give yourself to Him.  And when you do choose Jesus, when you do say “I will serve the Lord,” then you’ll find that you are called to action, called to the struggle to bring about God’s kingdom.  And in this struggle you will need, in Paul’s words, to “put on the whole armor of God” (Eph. 6.10).

The Sunday lesson from Paul includes the following:

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  (Eph. 6.13-17)

That doesn’t exactly sound passive, does it?  Standing firm means choosing the Lord.  Standing firm means proclaiming the Gospel to a world and within a Church in which people often don’t want to hear it.  And standing firm means avoiding the very real temptation to withdraw, to say something like “I have faith,” but never share it.  It means saying, like Peter, “Lord, to whom can we go?” (John 6.68) not because the Church can be in any way equated with Jesus in the call for our faith and loyalty, but because God has planted us here, and has a purpose for us here, to tend His vineyard, that we may present Him with the fruits of it.

Fr. Karl is on vacation:  Fr. Karl will be away 20 through 26 August.  Morning and Evening Prayer will be offered each day, but Holy Eucharist will be offered only on Wednesday (5:30 p.m.) and Friday (12.:10 p.m.), through the offices of Fr. Okkerse.  There will be no meetings for The Bible Challenge or for Bible study.

Being the Body is a program to equip the faithful in discipleship.  Being the Body is an eighteen month program, comprised on an introduction and twelve sessions, beginning on Saturday, 15 September. 

1. Knowing:  Content will focus on how God reveals Himself to us, and His will for us.
1. How do we gain knowledge and experience of God?
2. How does God’s holy word inform and guide us?
3. How do prayer and worship reveal and form faith?
2. Being:  Content will focus on who we are as members of the one Body of our risen Lord.
1. Exploring our roots:  Confessional faith and Anglican identity.
2. Participating in grace:  sacramental life and the life of prayer.
3. Embodying grace:  covenantal life with each other and in the world.
3. Doing:  Content will focus on equipping disciples to reclaim the world for Jesus Christ.
1. Work–Study–Prayer:  Holy living.
2. Defense of the faith:  Getting a skeptical world to listen.
3. Proclamation of the faith:  testimony and evangelism.
4. Call and response:  discerning a call to serve; living in service by the Holy Spirit.

Call for Vestry Nominations:  Vestry elections will be held on Sunday, 30 September, at the parish annual meeting.  We need at least six nominees, with names provided to the parish office by 16 September.  You can nominate another person or yourself.  To run for Vestry you must be a qualified elector of the parish, which means that:  (1)  You are regular in your attendance on worship; (2)  You have received Holy Eucharist at least once in the prior year; (3)  You are active in your support of the parish through a pledge or some other form of giving; and (4) Your are at least sixteen years of age.

Vestry members are called to lead.  Be prepared in the election process to provide a brief biographical sketch which allows your fellow parishioners to better understand your relationship with God and His Church, and your call to lead.  Vestry members are called to commitment, and are expected to attend twelve meetings throughout the year (once per month).

             Pictorial Directory Update: Many thanks to all of you who have already signed up for your photography session. The participation to date has exceeded our time frames and so another date has been added: Monday, October 1 from 2-9.  There are still some openings on Friday, Sept 21 and Saturday September 22. Please visit the parish website (www.gracesheboygan.com) and click on the link to register (or call Barb MacEwen 920.467.6909 and she will assist.) Remember you do get a free 8x10 and a copy of the directory for your participation in this church family activity. We do need all of you to help as the more people involved the more pictorial pages of church activities we get included in the book. AND should you decide to purchase any pictures (but no obligation) you will get $10 off AND if you bring canned goods for our Holy Roller Wagon the day of your sitting you will receive another $5 off!  How great is that?!

 

Grace Abounds:  I would like to thank Pat Ford Smith, Jane Hanson, Katy Larson, Paul Aparicio, Dale Massey and Barb MacEwen for all the help they have given me by being at the office desk so I can work in the Deacon's office uninterrupted. Thank you so  much, Michele

  Please take the opportunity to notify the office of any member or friend of the parish to whom we owe thanks, in order that we can publicize this in the weekly newsletter.

Biblical Literacy:  The Bible Challenge meets on Tuesdays, following the 5:30 p.m. celebration of Holy Eucharist, and a light supper (pot luck).  The 28 August session will review Week 26.  Bible study for the Sunday lessons takes place on Thursdays, following the 9 a.m. celebration of Holy Eucharist.

All Saints’, Elkhart Lake:  Throughout the Summer, please be intentional about two things (whether or not you attend All Saints’):  (1)  Pray for this ministry, and for those who serve in it, that they may serve our Lord by bringing more to know, love, and serve Him; (2) Engage in mission yourself.  You may know or meet people who you can ask to join you in worship, and All Saints’ can serve as a less formal setting that is more user-friendly in outreach.  Invite seekers to worship with you.

Music this week:

Prelude  Chorale Partita on ‘Blessed Jesus, we are here’      Johann Gottfried Walther

Entrance Hymn  #388  “O worship the King”   Hanover

Offertory Hymn 460   “Alleluia, sing to Jesus”   Hyfrydol

Communion Hymn  #302  “Father, we thank thee who hast planted”  Rendez à Dieu

Closing Hymn #544    “Jesus shall reign where’er the sun”    Duke Street

Postlude  Prelude and Fugue in A Major  Walther

 

Parish Notices

·         We welcome The Reverend John D. Alexander: Fr. Alexander, our guest celebrant and preacher this Sunday, is the Rector of St. Stephen’s, Providence, Rhode Island located on the campus of Brown University. He received his M.Div. from Virginia Theological Seminary in 1992 and completed his Master of Sacred Theology at Nashotah House in 2004. Please welcome Fr. Alexander to Grace Church.

·         New Parish Directory updates: Please find a draft copy of a new parish directory on the table in the Narthex at Grace Church. If you would please look at your entry and make any changes necessary and then initial it so we know it is correct. We are trying to have as many email addresses as possible, it saves postage and much of the communication of the church is done electronically. We never give them out but. Thank you.

·         Sunday School Begins: We have a terrific new curriculum, several new teachers and a renewed commitment to enrich all of our children (and maybe some newcomers) with the love of Jesus Christ! Sunday School will begin on September 9^th at 9:00am. Please watch for more information.

·         Please Help fill up the Holy Roller: Our red wagon is brought forward every Sunday by the children filled with food for the Salvation Army and individual sized toiletries for Repairers of the Breach. Please remember to bring these items every Sunday for these worthy causes.

·         Break the Language Barrier: He gives you flowers when what you really want is a hug. She spends time with you but what you really need is a home-cooked meal. The problem isn’t a lack of love, it’s your love language! Join us as we discover the five different ways that people express and receive love. Apply the right principles and soon you’ll know the joy of being able to express your love-and feel truly loved in return.  Based on the book The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. Registration is required for this free program. Join us at Great Marriages 612 Center Avenue, Sheboygan Saturday, October 13, 2012, 9:30am – noon Call GMSC at 920-783-3660 to register.

·         Friends of the Poor Walk: Save the Date September 29, 2012 for the 5th Annual “Friends of the Poor Walk " sponsored by Sheboygan County St. Vincent de Paul.  The 2-mile walk takes place at Sheboygan South High School and begins at 10:00.  This year we are focusing on "Caring4Kids".  The Sheboygan SVdP store has given out 150 twin size air beds in the first 6 months of the year, Mary's room has given out approximately 100 Pack 'N Plays instead of cribs because of rising costs of cribs, Plymouth area outfitted 48 kids for winter last year, and Sheboygan Falls has 548 students that receive free lunches during the school year.  Help us make sure that every child in the area has a good bed, warm clothing and the necessities for a great start in life.  Support the walk by either participating in the walk, and/or getting pledges. More details coming soon or contact Dennis 920-457-4844 ext. 11 to find out how you can help us Care4Kids. 

Taking God Seriously

Grace Episcopal Church

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Grace Notes

16 August 2012

Be prepared is an old and useful motto.  We may keep this in mind when we consider whether or not we are prepared to participate in Holy Communion.  In this respect, I can but refer you to a wonderful (and brief) sermon preached by The Rev. Dr. Bryan Owen of St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Jackson, Mississippi, on this past Sunday.  The sermon can be found here:  http://creedalchristian.blogspot.com/2012/08/sermon-for-11th-sunday-after-pentecost.html .  Fr. Owen preached this in the context of the recent debates in the Church over whether Communion should be “open,” i.e., available to the unbaptized.  This requirement has not been changed, but even for those of us who are baptized, it is always necessary to consider in what spiritual state we find ourselves in coming to our Lord’s table.  Let us never take participation in our Lord’s Body and Blood as something that can be done casually.  As St. Paul teaches us, if we partake of the Body and Blood in an unworthy manner, we eat and drink judgment upon ourselves (1 Cor. 11.27-29).  This is why we offer a confession before receiving, and remember, saying the prayer is not in itself a complete confession.  In addition to saying the prayer we must call to mind and offer to God the sins we have committed.  That’s why the deacon pauses before invoking the confession and starting the prayer.

Take God seriously!  He is serious enough about you that He sent His only-begotten to die for us while we were yet sinner (Rom 5.8).

Fr. Karl is on vacation:  Fr. Karl will be away 20 through 26 August.  Morning and Evening Prayer will be offered each day, but Holy Eucharist will be offered only on Wednesday (5:30 p.m.) and Friday (12.:10 p.m.), through the offices of Fr. Okkerse.  There will be no meetings for The Bible Challenge or for Bible study.

Discipleship:  Beyond Church membership:  An 18 month program in discipleship launches on Saturday, 15 September, as a county-wide Episcopalian ministry with St. Peter’s, Sheboygan Falls, and St. Paul’s, Plymouth.  This program is entitled Being the Body:  Beyond Church Membership.  To avoid confusion with how we have referred to thanksgivings for service on this blog, the weekly thanksgivings will now be know as Grace Abounds.

Being the Body is a program to equip the faithful in discipleship.  Being the Body is an eighteen month program, comprised on an introduction and twelve sessions. 

1. Knowing:  Content will focus on how God reveals Himself to us, and His will for us.
1. How do we gain knowledge and experience of God?
2. How does God’s holy word inform and guide us?
3. How do prayer and worship reveal and form faith?
2. Being:  Content will focus on who we are as members of the one Body of our risen Lord.
1. Exploring our roots:  Confessional faith and Anglican identity.
2. Participating in grace:  sacramental life and the life of prayer.
3. Embodying grace:  covenantal life with each other and in the world.
3. Doing:  Content will focus on equipping disciples to reclaim the world for Jesus Christ.
1. Work–Study–Prayer:  Holy living.
2. Defense of the faith:  Getting a skeptical world to listen.
3. Proclamation of the faith:  testimony and evangelism.
4. Call and response:  discerning a call to serve; living in service by the Holy Spirit.

Call for Vestry Nominations:  Vestry elections will be held on Sunday, 30 September, at the parish annual meeting.  We need at least six nominees, with names provided to the parish office by 16 September.  You can nominate another person or yourself.  To run for Vestry you must be a qualified elector of the parish, which means that:  (1)  You are regular in your attendance on worship; (2)  You have received Holy Eucharist at least once in the prior year; (3)  You are active in your support of the parish through a pledge or some other form of giving; and (4) Your are at least sixteen years of age.

Vestry members are called to lead.  Be prepared in the election process to provide a brief biographical sketch which allows your fellow parishioners to better understand your relationship with God and His Church, and your call to lead.  Vestry members are called to commitment, and are expected to attend twelve meetings throughout the year (once per month).

Pictorial Directory:  The pictorial directory photographic sessions are scheduled for 21 and 22 September.  Please visit the parish website to schedule your appointment.  You will also receive an automated telephone call from the parish, which will provide details of how to schedule your appointment.

Grace Abounds:  Yesterday we buried Jeanette Raymond.  A solemn service mid-week, on minimal notice doesn’t just happen.  Please thank all those who we rely on to make our liturgies come together, including Scot Fabiano (as acolyte master and thurifer), Claudia Fischer and the members of the Altar Guild, Bill Gagin and Kaleigh Kraft.  In fact, consider that our regular Sunday worship could not happen the way it does but for the dedicated service of all of the altar party, including teenagers.  When you see someone in a cotta and cassock, please thank them!  This certainly goes, as well, for Ben Dobey.  Please thank him for the music provided both on Sundays and at special services (e.g., two funerals and Assumption within the past week).

At Barbara Jung’s funeral last week, the luncheon happened as a results of a lot of work by Bernie Markevitch, assisted by Barb and Bob MacEwen, Scot Gedemer, Fred and Gail Tyska, Elizabeth Schaffenburg, and Mary Snyder.  Bill May has certainly been busy with set-ups and take-down’s for the hall!

Please take the opportunity to notify the office of any member or friend of the parish to whom we owe thanks, in order that we can publicize this in the weekly newsletter.

Biblical Literacy:  The Bible Challenge and the weekly Bible study session will not meet next week, due to Fr. Karl being on vacation.

All Saints’, Elkhart Lake:  Throughout the Summer, please be intentional about two things (whether or not you attend All Saints’):  (1)  Pray for this ministry, and for those who serve in it, that they may serve our Lord by bringing more to know, love, and serve Him; (2) Engage in mission yourself.  You may know or meet people who you can ask to join you in worship, and All Saints’ can serve as a less formal setting that is more user-friendly in outreach.  Invite seekers to worship with you.

Music this week:

Prelude                        Adagio in E Flat                                                          John Stainer

Proc. Hymn  #390       “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty”                             Lobe den Herren

Off. Hymn  #477        “All praise to thee, for thou, O King divine”             Engelberg

Comm. Hymn #324    “Let all mortal flesh keep silence”                              Picardy

Closing Hymn #542    “Christ is the world’s true light”                                 St. Joan

Postlude                      Two Chorale Preludes on ‘Lobe den Herren’             Max Reger

Parish Notices

§  Pictorial Directory: The pictorial directory photographic sessions are scheduled for 21 and 22 September. Please visit the parish website to schedule your appointment. You will also receive an automated telephone call from the parish, which will provide details of how to schedule your appointment.

§  New Parish Directory updates: Please find a draft copy of a new parish directory on the table in the Narthex at Grace Church. If you would please look at your entry and make any changes necessary and then initial it so we know it is correct. We are trying to have as many email addresses as possible, it saves postage and much of the communication of the church is done electronically. We never give them out but. Thank you.

§  Sunday School Begins: We have a terrific new curriculum, several new teachers and a renewed commitment to enrich all of our children (and maybe some newcomers) with the love of Jesus Christ! Sunday School will begin on September 9^th at 9:00am. Please watch for more information.

§  Acolyte Training: If you have been an acolyte for years or would like to come and see what it is all about we will have a training Saturday August 18, 10:00-11:00 am. All children entering 3^rd grade or older are invited to become an acolyte! This is a great way to serve during worship and become an active member of our parish family! We will teach the basics of each position and learn to work as a team. Scott Fabiano, Father Karl and I will be providing a training and refresher for all acolytes. If your child is unable to make it, but would like to participate, please call or email the office.

§  Call for Vestry Nominations: Vestry elections will be held on Sunday, 30 September, at the parish annual meeting. We need at least six nominees, with names provided to the parish office by 16 September. You can nominate another person or yourself. To run for Vestry you must be a qualified elector of the parish, which means that: (1) You are regular in your attendance on worship;(2) You have received Holy Eucharist at least once in the prior year;(3) You are active in your support of the parish through a pledge or some other form of giving; and (4) Your are at least sixteen years of age. Vestry members are called to lead. Be prepared in the election process to provide a brief biographical sketch which allows your fellow parishioners to better understand your relationship with God and His Church, and your call to lead. Vestry members are called to commitment, and are expected to attend twelve meetings throughout the year (once per month).

§  Youth participation is requested: As full members of the Body of Christ the youth of the parish are encouraged to participate in all areas of parish life. This includes: being a lector-reading the lessons, bringing up the gifts, both in the Holy Roller (the red wagon) and collecting the offering. A musical offering will be made by the youth on September 23^rd. Please contact Deacon Michele at mwhitford@gracesheboygan.com or Nick Whitford at njwhitford@gmail.com if your children are interested in participating.

§  Please Help fill up the Holy Roller: Our red wagon is brought forward every Sunday by the children filled with food for the Salvation Army and individual sized toiletries for Repairers of the Breach. Please remember to bring these items every Sunday for these worthy causes.

§  Help the Local Schools: The schools can receive up to $10,000 in Target giftcards for books or any supplies they need. Wouldn't that be great? All you need to do is vote for a school each week until September 8. For every 25 votes the school receives, Target will send the school a  $25 gift card. Visit the Give with Target app at Facebook.com/Target. And Vote!

§  The Commemoration of Blessed Charles Chapman Grafton is observed as a Feast Day of the Diocese of Fond du Lac at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Fond du Lac. It is included in "Holy Men, Holy Women" by the Standing Committee on Liturgy and Music of the Episcopal Church. The Feast Day is August 30th, although the Commemoration liturgy may be translated to another day. The 2012 Commemoration will take place Saturday, August 25th at the Cathedral of St. Paul the Apostle, Fond du Lac. For more information and to register go to diofdl.org/grafton. 

The Challenge of Change

Grace Episcopal Church

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Grace Notes

9 August 2012

The Challenge of Change:  When Jesus calls us, His first call is “Follow me.”  This means He is calling us on a journey with Him, one that we make together.  It also means that if we are not following we are not standing still, but are regressing.  If we are not growing in faith and discipleship, then we are diminishing.  The challenge this presents to every one of us is that “standing still” can be comfortable.  We all want to feel connected to God and to each other, and when activities and ministries in the parish are added to or changed in any way, this can cause us to question how we are connected, with whom, and who is driving the “program”.

Ask questions:  Ask the clergy and the parish leadership.  You should expect that a rationale must be provided to you for everything we do, and if you disagree with the rationale, then discuss this with clergy and leadership.  Ask yourself what you are called to do.  It may involve serving in a ministry, working on a committee, or something else.  If you want to be included more, then pray about what you are called to do and ask to be included more.  If you believe you need more information, ask for it.  All parish communications are designed to make as much information available as possible.  There are no secrets and no circle of those “in the know,” so if you believe more information is needed about anything, ask for it.

Pray:  Once you are satisified that you understand the reasons behind each ministry initiative, pray about how you are called to participate and respond.  God gives each one of us some gift by which to build up the Body.

Serve:  Respond to God’s call.  This can be in something as simple as intercessory prayer on your own, or can involve an active and visible ministry in the parish or in the community.  In serving you will be taking to heart our Lord’s call, “Follow me.”

Finally, note something very important:  Any of the changes in parish program only add to what we are doing already.  Nothing that we are doing is being taken away, so if you are not called into any of the additional activities or programs, you can continue to serve faithfully as you always have.

Call for Vestry Nominations:  Vestry elections will be held on Sunday, 30 September, at the parish annual meeting.  We need at least six nominees, with names provided to the parish office by 16 September.  You can nominate another person or yourself.  To run for Vestry you must be a qualified elector of the parish, which means that:  (1)  You are regular in your attendance on worship; (2)  You have received Holy Eucharist at least once in the prior year; (3)  You are active in your support of the parish through a pledge or some other form of giving; and (4) Your are at least sixteen years of age.

Vestry members are called to lead.  Be prepared in the election process to provide a brief biographical sketch which allows your fellow parishioners to better understand your relationship with God and His Church, and your call to lead.  Vestry members are called to commitment, and are expected to attend twelve meetings throughout the year (once per month).

Pictorial Directory:  The pictorial directory photographic sessions are scheduled for 21 and 22 September.  Please visit the parish website to schedule your appointment.  You will also receive an automated telephone call from the parish, which will provide details of how to schedule your appointment.

Rector’s Forum:  On Sunday, 12 August, a rector’s forum will be held to discuss the actions taken at General Convention 2012.  The forum will not be a discussion of issues at large in the Church.  It will focus on what we are called to, who we are called to be, and how nothing in this is changed by actions in the Church around us.

Being the Body:  Please thank Susan McIntosh and Michael Boland for pinch hitting and filling in as hosts at the coffee hour recently.

Please take the opportunity to notify the office of any member or friend of the parish to whom we owe thanks, in order that we can publicize this in the weekly newsletter.

Biblical Literacy:  The Bible Challenge meets on Tuesdays, following the 5:30 p.m. celebration of Holy Eucharist, and a light supper (pot luck).  The 16 August session will review Week 24.  Bible study for the Sunday lessons takes place on Thursdays, following the 9 a.m. celebration of Holy Eucharist.

All Saints’, Elkhart Lake:  Throughout the Summer, please be intentional about two things (whether or not you attend All Saints’):  (1)  Pray for this ministry, and for those who serve in it, that they may serve our Lord by bringing more to know, love, and serve Him; (2) Engage in mission yourself.  You may know or meet people who you can ask to join you in worship, and All Saints’ can serve as a less formal setting that is more user-friendly in outreach.  Invite seekers to worship with you.

Music this week:

Prelude                                    Prelude on ‘Song 46’                                                  Sowerby

Entrance Hymn 408                “Sing praise to God who reigns above”

Offertory Hymn 523               “Glorious things of thee are spoken”

Communion Hymn 328          “Draw nigh and take the Body of the Lord”

Closing Hymn 657                  “Love divine, all loves excelling”

Postlude                                  Voluntary in C                                                             Heron

Parish Notices

• New Parish Directory: Please find a draft copy of a new parish directory on the table in the Narthex at Grace Church. If you would please look at your entry and make any changes necessary and then initial it so we know it is correct. We are trying to have as many email addresses as possible, it saves postage and much of the communication of the church is done electronically. We never give them out but. Thank you.

• Sunday School Begins: We have a terrific new curriculum, several new teachers and a renewed commitment to enrich all of our children (and maybe some newcomers) with the love of Jesus Christ! Sunday School will begin on September 9^th at 9:00am. Please watch for more information.
• Acolyte Training: If you have been an acolyte for years or would like to come and see what it is all about we will have a training Saturday August 18, 10:00-11:00 am. All children entering 3^rd grade or older are invited to become an acolyte! This is a great way to serve during worship and become an active member of our parish family! We will teach the basics of each position and learn to work as a team. Scott Fabiano, Father Karl and I will be providing a training and refresher for all acolytes. If your child is unable to make it, but would like to participate, please call or email the office.

• Youth participation is requested: As full members of the Body of Christ the youth of the parish are encouraged to participate in all areas of parish life. This includes: being a lector-reading the lessons, bringing up the gifts, both in the Holy Roller (the red wagon) and collecting the offering. A musical offering will be made by the youth on September 23^rd. Please contact Deacon Michele at mwhitford@gracesheboygan.com or Nick Whitford at njwhitford@gmail.com if your children are interested in participating.
• Please Help fill up the Holy Roller: Our red wagon is brought forward every Sunday by the children filled with food for the Salvation Army and individual sized toiletries for Repairers of the Breach. Please remember to bring these items every Sunday for these worthy causes.

• Help the Local Schools: The schools can receive up to $10,000 in Target giftcards for books or any supplies they need. Wouldn't that be great? All you need to do is vote for a school each week until September 8. For every 25 votes the school receives, Target will send the school a  $25 gift card. Visit the Give with Target app at Facebook.com/Target. And Vote!
• Fr. Schaffenburg’s Vacation: Fr. Karl and Elizabeth will be on vacation from August 20^th through August 26^th. He will be back in the office on the 27^th.

• The Commemoration of Blessed Charles Chapman Grafton is observed as a Feast Day of the Diocese of Fond du Lac at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Fond du Lac. It is included in "Holy Men, Holy Women" by the Standing Committee on Liturgy and Music of the Episcopal Church. The Feast Day is August 30th, although the Commemoration liturgy may be translated to another day. The 2012 Commemoration will take place Saturday, August 25th at the Cathedral of St. Paul the Apostle, Fond du Lac. For more information and to register go to diofdl.org/grafton. 
• 2:00 p.m.―Lecture on Bishop Grafton. Our scheduled speaker is Mr. Richard J. Mammana, Jr., of New Haven, Connecticut, Founder and Director of Project Canterbury, tentatively speaking on the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament.
• 3:30 p.m.―Evening Prayer.
• 4:00 p.m.―Solemn Pontifical Mass followed by a “Blessing of Pilgrims”.
• 5:00 p.m.―An “Old Fashioned Garden Party” in the Cathedral Close. Grafton came from a culture of Victorian Garden parties, which would have consisted of tea and coffee, bread and butter, biscuits, cake, sandwiches, fruit, lemonade, and ice cream. Perhaps even a harpist.