“cottage conversations” meetings over the last few weeks. much … · 2015-11-03 · “cottage...

www.allsaintsgreensboro.dionc.org

It

Hello All Saints,

It has been a very busy time with the church wide meeting followed by all of the

“cottage conversations” meetings over the last few weeks. Much of the “thanks

goes to Sue Keith, our Stewardship leader, for all the work she did organizing

this program. Also special thanks to our Treasurer and the Finance Committee

for their support and to all of you who hosted/attended these functions.

I am sure that you did get the message that we have dropped too far behind on the amount of contributions to the church and had to supplement with funds

from our reserve account. As it was pointed out, we are not in a full blown

crisis, but we need to take action to correct this deficit or it will become a

financial crisis. This is not to say that everyone must put forth a major increase

in their pledges. Some cannot afford to give more, and some have other

priorities. That means, therefore, that the rest of us will need to dig a little

deeper to accomplish our goal. At any rate, PLEASE TURN IN YOUR PLEDGE

CARD even if you cannot make a pledge at this time, and know that all cards

will be treated confidentially.

During the meetings several things were discussed consistently that you felt

were important for All Saints and important for consideration by the Search

committee. One recurring theme about who we once were, however, kept

coming up and that it should be part of who we will be. The theme was about

all the wonderful social times we shared in the past such as spaghetti dinners,

trips to Valle Crucis, game or movie nights, Seasoned Saints, etc.

We already have Restaurant Raiders, which is enjoyed by many, but it is not

for everyone, so let’s quit talking about it and do something about it. It

doesn’t have to be expensive or even repeated on a regular schedule, but if

what I heard is right, it needs to be done. Put on your thinking caps and let’s

get organized and enjoy each other’s company.

Ron Alexander, Senior Warden


Art–A-Faire Coming December 5 p. 2

Several All Saints Artists will be showcased at the Fifth Annual All Saints Art-A-Fair on December 5, 2015. They are Diane Cotton, Teresa Sullivan, Gale Robins and Anne Cassity. They are among the 32 artisans who will show and sell such artworks as pottery, unique-designed jewelry, oil and watercolor paintings, photography, fabric painting, pottery, hand-painted note cards, fused glass jewelry, stained glass designs, woodcarving and other woodworking designs.

This event is definitely the place to be on the first Saturday in December from 3 to 6 p.m. Below are pictures of some of their exhibits.

Diane Cotton’s landscape

Gale Robin’s linoleum print note cards: Teresa Sullivan’s distinctive pottery:

a

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Lighting Project Put on Hold

The vestry has been evaluating concerns about safety on the church grounds during evening events, as well as security for the buildings and grounds. A committee was formed to request cost estimates for enhancing the exterior lighting, and a vendor submitted detailed plans. The vestry has tabled plans because of budget planning until next year when a report for the parish will be presented.


Vestry Nominations p. 3

During the weeks of October and November, you are all especially welcome to be “name droppers,” filling out a card with the name(s) of anyone you think might serve well as a member of the vestry for the next three years.

Cards will be available in the church entryway and Gathering Space, or you can share your suggestions with any member of the vestry or the rector.

No need to check with the people you suggest: that will be taken care of through “official” channels. Just “drop the name(s)” — and you can include your own — and the vestry will do the rest.

Elections will be held in January, 2016

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Thank you All Saints Choir! Thank you for the praise and love you give through song each Sunday. Thank you to Toney for unswerving dedication and outstanding musicianship. Over the past few months, we have lost nearly half of our choir members due to moves or job changes. We are very fortunate that Shirley Kroohs has joined us and we invite anyone who likes to sing to join, as well. We are preparing for Advent and Christmas, always a special time for us. We are

small but filled with spirit and love, eagerly praising our Lord and God.

We are a cast of a play to unfold We have a part at the heart of the Gospel Action that speaks as the story unfolds Shirley Brenna Murray

Stewardship at All Saints

Leaves are changing and falling, but the "Saints Alive" stewardship campaign is still in season! Our goal has been set at $175,000, and we are creeping toward that goal. Every pledge matters, of course, but the finance committee has made clear that our need is great, if we are to meet our budget.


Deadline for returning your pledge cards is November 8, allowing us time to build a budget for the new year. Pledge cards have been sent to those unable to attend one of the conversations. Please prayerfully consider your pledge, returning it by November 8.

In the meantime, check out the candle in the Gathering Space, to check out our progress in the campaign. Help us build a larger and brighter flame!

Thanks to those who hosted our recent Cottage Conversations, our finance committee for repeatedly and skillfully explaining our monetary realities, vestry members who took notes, and all who were able to attend.

Some things we know about ourselves: we enjoy talking to each other, delight in digging around in our history, treasure breaking bread together, and believe this "little church on the edge of Sedgefield" has a bright and innovative future ahead of us! ONWARD!

Thanks, all! Sue Keith

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ALL SAINTS’

Restaurant Raiders! Fall/winter Dates & Hosts

Nov. 13, 2015……….Gene Simpson and Jim Baulding

Dec. 11, 2015……….Joyce Smithers

Jan. 8, 2016…………..Faith & Charlie Hawes

Feb. 12, 2016…………Verna Hurley

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Search Committee Update

At the September Vestry meeting the following were approved as members of the Search Committee: Eugene Simpson, Jane Davis, Pamela Alexander, Fran Pollock, James Keith, William Sullivan, Gail Parker, Sally Brannan with Tom Robins being elected as Chairperson. Verna Hurley, Stephen McCollum, Charlie Hawes, Anne King, Linda Bedell, and Teresa Sullivan were approved as alternates.

The newly formed committee met on Wednesday, October 7th to prepare for the visit by Catherine Massey, the newly appointed Canon for Transition and Pastoral Care. Gene Simpson was elected as Vice Chair. Canon Massey then met with the Search Committee on October 14th and reviewed the results of our meeting, including updating the church website and newsletter, and holding Cottage Conversations combined with discussions about stewardship. All of these are necessary components of our Parish Portfolio. She reminded us that this is a Spiritual Process, not a hiring process. We are not hiring an employee, but calling a Priest, Pastor, and Spiritual leader.

The committee will continue to refine the Parish Portfolio and be prepared to begin conducting discernment conversations with various candidates early next spring. Stay tuned as we move through this exciting time!


Blessing of the Animals On October 25, 2015 the two-legged, four-legged and all other fans of St. Francis gathered at All Saints for a special blessing by Rev. Ken Kroohs and thanks to Stephanie Tucker’s organization.

Kyle Hemauer and friend

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Cottage Conversations Kickoff Stewardship Drive

Our “cottage conversations” have been completed. Not all members were able to attend, but

these meetings were ones in which we not only learned some of the specifics of our financial

health but also brainstormed together about what we value about All Saints, what we hope to

continue, and what new activities and approaches we envision, given our realities. Groups also

talked about what we are looking for, even longing for, and praying for in our next rector. The

search committee will benefit from these conversations.

Many thanks to the saints who hosted these conversations, at home or at church. Many thanks,

too, to our informed and intrepid finance committee members, who attended the conversations

and translated our fiscal realities —patiently answering questions, giving us the facts, and

hopefully leaving us better prepared for making personal decisions about our pledges to All

Saints. A vestry member attended each meeting and contributed immeasurably by taking notes,

which will be useful in many ways.

Our “Saints Alive!” stewardship drive ends on November 8. Pledge cards are being sent to

members who did not receive one at a “conversation.” They are also available in the narthex. If

you have questions or concerns, please contact Sue Keith ([email protected] or

[email protected])

Wondering how the pledge drive is “going”? Check out the candle and its growing flame, in the

Gathering Space!

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mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Lobstarahma Brings in October On October 1, All Saints raised $1,747.23 for Servant Center with 212 live lobsters sold. Of those, 32 were donated for veterans’ dinners. Special thanks go to Pam Alexander, Barbara Carrano and Gene Simpson for spearheading this event. Extra special thanks go to Ron Stowers as Chief Lobster Boiler.

Why Are Church Doors Red?

We have a beautiful red door at All Saints, and although not all Episcopal churches have red doors, many Lutheran and Episcopal churches do. Obviously the red doors are meant to be noticed, but why red?

There are many theories, but several are repeated by clergy, historians and lay people. At its simplest, the red door indicates the Holy Spirit’s presence. But the most popular reason seems to be that the red door signified a place of safety and refuge. For example, a soldier could not pursue an enemy who had entered the red doors of a church.

Today many churches proclaim with their red doors that our churches are a haven for emotional and spiritual healing and are a place of refuge and safety, forgiveness and reconciliation – in other words, red doors invite the passer-by into a space filled with the Holy Spirit.

Historically, the doors of Wittenburg Cathedral in Wittenburg, Germany where Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses were red, symbolizing today a church of the Reformation.

Another red door tradition goes back to cathedrals in the Middle Ages where red signifies the Blood of Christ painted on the north, south and east doors of a church. This symbolized making the sign of the cross – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

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All Saints’ red doors at Blessing.


November Calendar Notables p.8

Adult Conversations and Coffee for Christmas Starting Nov. 1 we prepare for the real Christmas by studying the Biblical accounts of Jesus’ birth. Come learn whether what you thought was true, really was! The video series we will use is one by one of my favorite Bible teachers, Dr. M. Efrid.

Knitting Opportunity Shirley Kroohs has offered to teach loom knitting on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at noon and 7 pm. She will bring the necessary looms and yarns.

Return Pledge Cards by Sunday, Nov. 8

Chili Cook on Nov. 7, 11-2 p.m.

Held at Our Father Lutheran Church . All Saints is defending its two year championship. Please come and purchase tickets for a delectable chili treat . Proceeds go to the Servant Center.

Special Art-A-Faire Raffle Mike Tiddy, weel-known Asheville artist and long time supporter of All Saints has donated a watercolor to be raffled off. Valued at $500, the painting is a sepia pen and ink drawing with a watercolor wash. It depicts a shed in a vineyard in Provence, near Gordes, France. The image is 10.5” x 14”, and is matted in a tan mat and framed in a simple gold frame. You will be able to buy raffle tickets for $20 beginning Nov. 1. Buy as many tickets as you like as soon as they go on sale.


Out and About All Saints in October p.9

Stephanie Tucker at the Blessing of the Animals.

Ron Stowers is the Chief Lobster Boiler.


How Dark is the Dark?

“Even when light fades and darkness falls – as it does every single day, in every single life – God

does not turn the world over to some other deity.” Barbara Brown Taylor has written a book about

exploring our preconceptions about darkness, and some surprising ideas about its value and comfort.

LEARNING TO WALK IN THE DARK is Brown’s look psychologically, emotionally and theologically

about how we seem to be programmed since early childhood to run from darkness, whether it’s that

scary closet when the lights go out at bedtime or the dark monster in the comic book. And she notes

that even in large cities, the affluent areas are always much brighter with lights than poorer sections,

perpetuating our instinct to surround ourselves with light.

In this small book, Brown, an Episcopal priest, physically sets out to find the truth about our

possible relationships with the dark and how we really need it. She visits a restaurant in Amsterdam

made for the experience of blindness where all patrons are masked. She also explores a large cave and

writes of her own personal darkness at her home in the woods.

The Bible, she notes has very little positive to say about darkness at first reading, but she finds

several passages where very important things happen at night. I suspect most people have favorite

times when darkness is comforting, simpler and just what we need. A rainy dark day with a hot cup of

coffee and a good book, the dark brilliance of a starry sky in a wooded area or just the simplicity of a

silent dark room when you need to sleep without commotion interrupting.

Brown chiefly asserts that darkness is a natural and needed part of the earth’s cycles as well as

our cycles, literally and metaphorically. It is there, a fact, and we need to learn its value.

-Anne King


A Parish of the Episcopal Diocese of North

served by The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry, Bishop

The Rt. Rev. Anne Hodges-Copple, Bishop Suffragan The Rev. Ken Kroohs, Interim Rector

The Rev. Paula C. Rachal, Priest Associate

THE VESTRY 2015

Ron Alexander, Rector’s Warden

Gale Robins, People’s Warden

Faith Hawes, Education & Formation Missioner

Sue Keith, Stewardship Missioner

Alison Mercier, Community Outreach Missioner

Chris Persson, Congregational Care & Worship Missioner

Lou Pollock, Buildings & Ground Missioner

Gene Simpson, Communication Missioner

Sue Starr, Hospitality & Membership Missioner

Jane Davis, Lillian Kortheuer, Verna Hurley, Alternates

Rhonda Campbell, Treasurer

Sue Mercier, Clerk

OTHER MINISTERS & MINISTRIES Gene Fayssoux, Altar Guild

Edwin Powell, Acolytes Bill & Teresa Sullivan, Ushers

Sue Mercier, Hosts Lind Tranchetti, Prayer.Net

Ron Stowers, Jack Kramer, Men’s Fellowship

Pam & Ron Alexander Restaurant Raiders Gail Parker, Web Sexton

Verna Hurley, Daughters of the King

Stephen McCollum, Linda Bedell, Augustine Literacy Project

STAFF Jacque Stowers, Secretary

James Thompson, Bookkeeper Bob Dietzen, Groundskeeper

Gale Robins, Choir Director

Toney Yancey, Organist

A Collect for All the Saints

O God, who led your people through the wilderness for forty years, guide us, the people of All

Saints, as we continue our journey of discovery and love.

We ask for the faith to trust You and each other as we seek a new pastor and discern our path. We pray for these things in the name of Your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God forever and ever. Amen.

1. Sue Keith and

Fr. Charlie Hawes


Inside this issue:

Sr. Warden Letter p. 1

Art A-Faire. Light project p. 2

Vestry Nomination, Thank You p.3

Stewardship, Rest. Raiders p.4

Search Comm., Animal Blessing p. 5

Cottage Conv., Lobstaramah p. 6

Church Doors p.7

November Calendar p.8

Oct. Happenings p. 9

4211 WAYNE ROAD

GREENSBORO, NC 27407-7314

“cottage conversations” meetings over the last few weeks. much … · 2015-11-03 · “cottage...

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