Vol. 7, No. 4 April, 2010
The Philippian A publication of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church * East Moore & Dry Streets * P.O. Box 10476 * Southport, NC 28461
http://www.stphilipschurch.org * E-Mail: [email protected]
Phone: (910) 457-5643 * Fax: (910) 457-6991 *
From the Rector
‘That’s just not realistic.’
The above comment was made by a parishioner during a conversation we were having
following a sermon I preached on the Second Sunday in Lent. The sermon, as you may recall,
began with my telling the story of a mouse who became distressed that a farmer and his wife
had placed a mousetrap in their home, to, presumably, catch the mouse. The upshot of the
sermon was that it is inconsistent with the Gospel of Jesus Christ to think that whatever might
happen to someone else is of little concern to us, as long as our ‘things’ and priorities are not
personally threatened.
In that sermon I made mention of the parable that Jesus tells of the rich young man
who tells Jesus that he has faithfully obeyed the Law and wants to know what else is required
of him in order to claim his share of the Kingdom of God. Jesus’ response, as we all know, was
that he needed to sell all that he has, give it to the poor, and follow Jesus. The rich young
man, confronted with the reality of what being a disciple of Jesus requires, walks away.
‘That’s just not realistic’ was the response of the person I was conversing with.
And they were right. It’s not realistic. It’s not realistic because to contemplate, let
alone actually give away all that we possess, flies in the face of everything the world around
us says is ours for the taking. We are victims of our own success. We have been seduced by
the ads, the commercials and the marketers, all maintaining that we have a right to what we
have and what we want because we have somehow earned it. The real truth is it’s not
realistic, and Jesus correctly challenges our thinking that what we have is ours and the product
of our own labor.
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The real truth is we’re afraid to lose what we think we already have, in order to take a
chance on the demands and rewards of entering Jesus’ Kingdom. My friends, that perspective
hinders our ability, as it did the rich young man’s, to respond to the responsibilities of our
baptism. It’s not about us; it’s about God, and God’s purposes. To unrealistically hang on to
‘things’ says we’re afraid of freedom; a freedom that is all about love and relationships, with
God and each other. Ask yourself, ‘If I am what I have (such as material security) and if what I
have is lost, who then am I?’
So what do we do? How do we get real with Jesus? Given our human nature it’s not
realistic to think that we can give ‘it’ all up, whatever ‘it’ is. In this month in which we
celebrate the Resurrection of Our Lord I offer you these three suggestions on how we might all
work toward getting real with Jesus.
First, begin by admitting that Jesus is right. Material things are important, but your
relationship with God is the most important ‘thing’ in your life. God, and God’s purposes for
you, comes before everything and everyone else.
Second, honestly appraise the patterns of denial in your life and open yourself to the
need to change. Remember the rich young man, whose need to have was deadening his need
to be what God called him to be.
Third, acknowledging that you can’t do it all at once, make a plan to shed the things
that are barriers to God’s call on your life, and replace them with God’s priorities. As an
example; if the allocations of your time, talent and treasure fall short of the minimum biblical
tithe (10%), change your priorities to add 1% a year to each gift until you reach at least the
minimum. And make sure that you start each day with prayer, asking God to be the focus for
all you do.
My brothers and sisters, Jesus’ Resurrection is God’s acknowledgement of our inability
to be realistic. God knows us better than we do. The Good News for us, however, is the gift of
hope God bestows upon us through Christ’s sacrifice. A gift that bolsters our faith and
nurtures our ability to change. Now that is realistic.
Alleluia! Christ is Risen! The Lord is Risen indeed!
God bless you and remember you are loved.
Fr. Barry+
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2010 Lent, Holy Week & Easter Worship Schedule
March 28th – Palm Sunday
8AM – Holy Communion with Liturgy of the Palms
10:30AM – Holy Communion with Liturgy of the Palms
March 29th and 30th – Monday and Tuesday
7AM – Chapel of the Cross - Morning Prayer
6PM – Chapel of the Cross – Evening Prayer
March 31st - Wednesday – Choral Tenebrae Service
7PM – St. Philip’s Church
April 1st – Maundy Thursday
7PM – St. Philip’s Church
Footwashing & Stripping of the Altar
8PM – 8AM Friday – Overnight Vigil in Chapel of the Cross
April 2nd – Good Friday
7PM – St. Philip’s Church
April 3rd – Saturday
7PM – The Great Vigil of Easter - Chapel of the Cross
April 4th – Easter Day
7:45AM – St. Philip’s Church
9AM – St. Philip’s Church
11AM – St. Philip’s Church
A nursery will be provided during Holy Week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evening. The nursery will be available on Easter Day for the 9AM and 11AM services.
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The Daughters of the King will be organizing the Maundy Thursday
Vigil, April 1st in the Chapel of the Cross. After the Maundy Thursday
service the elements are taken to the Chapel where they remain
overnight. At least two people each hour will keep vigil through the
night. You are encouraged to fill one hour of the time slots, 8:00 PM
to 8:00 AM on Good Friday. There will be a sign up poster on the bulletin board in the
bathroom hallway in the Sanctuary two weeks prior to April 1st. You may bring meditative
materials or just sit quietly. This is a silent vigil. Please consider this opportunity to be a
part of a very spiritual and meaningful experience of Holy Week.
Beach Ministry Planning Meeting
Wednesday, April 7 at 7:00PM
(after Healing Service)
BISHOP SIMON MAKUNDI RETIREMENT GIFT As mentioned in the March Philippian, it would be appropriate for St. Philip's to send a monetary gift to Bishop Simon and his wife, Martha, on the occasion of his
retirement from his position as Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Their visit to our Parish from November 2006 is remembered by many of
us. Some few of us have actually visited them in Arusha and others have expressed a wish to go there. We are assured that a welcome mat will always be out for us in
Arusha TZ.
If you would care to contribute to this gift, which is intended to help the Makundis with the energy costs for their retirement home, using biogas methods that are
environmentally sound, please make out a check payable to St. Philip's with
MAKUNDI RETIREMENT GIFT marked on it. We will have your names and prepare a card for donors to sign.
Barbara Reed
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
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Catching Up in the Spring
This note was prepared late February, as I prepared for another training jaunt to DC, hopefully missing the snowy blizzard raging farther up the Northeast coast at this time. You will be seeing this article early April, so hopefully we're well past the cold winter we've experienced. At this juncture, I want to catch up on reports we've had in the last several issues and include a new story on the Dakotas.
Not all our fellow citizens are quite out of the cold yet, as the main ERD piece below about the Dakotas indicates. There was some television coverage of the storm and its effects on Native Americans living in the Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Reser-vations. This reminded me of my great Aunt Anna who worked as a nun in Dakota com-munities for most of her adult life. As the article indicates, the worst weather is yet to come in March and April, so this effort still needs help. As ERD indicates, while Haiti's needs are critical, we must also not lose sight of the needs we have at home.
I'd also like to pass along some news on Haiti, below, with a recent update on what's being done with ERD's help. This is an evolving story, so I will try to keep us updated with key developments.
Finally, I'd just like to let you know here that since our last Story on Transfiguration Chapel and the Trash Dump Kids near Manila, the local parish is planning to start an NGO (non-profit organization) to institutionalize their assistance to the children. Fr. Bordador, who returned to NYC March 1, will now be trying to help Stateside. He wrote again to me, introducing me to the parish and staff. He spoke about an eleven year old who in the stress of that site, was smoking and drinking, and how sad that made him feel. Fr. Bordador is hoping that I might be able to muster some interest in a relationship between either our parish or diocese and the Church and its field chapel over there. I'm going to try to help him with this project. If anyone is interested in working with me on this project, please let me know.
Welcome to Spring! Now here are the stories:
Jake
Episcopal Relief & Development Responds to Ice Storm in the Dakotas
On January 20, the Episcopal Dioceses of North and South Dakota were affected by a devastating ice storm and subsequent blizzard that left more than 14,000 people without power or access to clean water. In the wake of this disaster, Episcopal Relief & Development has responded to requests for emergency aid from the Dioceses of North and South Dakota.
The already shaky infrastructure of indigenous communities living on the Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Reservations was further crippled by the storm. The severe weather downed over 3,000 power poles. Resulting power outages led to the loss of perishable food items and to equipment malfunctions at the local water treatment facilities, contaminating the region’s supply of drinking water. Freezing temperatures
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caused significant damage to most families’ furnaces and the pipes in many residences froze and burst. It is estimated that most homes will sustain $2,000 to $5,000 in damages.
The Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota, which is home to 14 Episcopal congregations, has declared a state of emergency. On both reservations, emergency shelters have been created in schools, community centers and churches to accommodate those left living without heat and hot water. People are sharing the scarce resources available to them.
Virginia Traverfie, Senior Warden of Emmanuel Church in Whitehorse, described to Episcopal News Service how the church mobilized to help people: “The church is about a mile from us. For people who didn’t have food, we took what we had there and together with coffee, sugar, whatever we had, we passed it out to the community here.” She continued by saying that leaders had set up shelter for those still without power. “There are power lines laying everywhere. It hit the whole reservation really bad.”
Although the storm has passed, reports indicate that some areas could be without power for up to a month while services are restored. With no heat, electricity or running water, these communities continue to face temperatures well below freezing. They are bracing for the possibility that this winter’s worst storms are yet to come. The most severe winter weather usually does not hit this area until March or April.
In North Dakota, the diocese will use emergency funds to provide critical relief in the form of lodging and food. Once immediate needs have been met, they will begin restoration work on area residences damaged by the storm. The Diocese of South Dakota will employ emergency funds to provide food, mend broken pipes, restore access to clean water and supply propane for heating homes.
“Although much of the world’s focus is on the problems in Haiti, it is crucial that we do not forget those in need here at home,” said Abagail Nelson, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Senior Vice President for Programs. “Episcopal Relief & Development is committed to supporting the communities of the Standing Rock and Cheyenne River Reservations as they recover from these storms and get back to life as normal.”
Haiti Update
Prior to the earthquake Episcopal Relief & Development was partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti’s Development Office. This diverse program included fostering a network of 28 community development workers trained in disaster management. Since the quake, these development agents have completed initial needs assessments in their own communities, and they are providing their data to the diocese and Episcopal Relief & Development. The data provided by these agents is enabling the Diocese and Episcopal Relief & Development to work together, setting priorities for ongoing relief and recovery efforts.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, activities supported by Episcopal Relief &
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Development include:
Episcopal Diocese of Haiti
Supplying over six tons of food to survivors living in diocesan camps. This includes both purchased and donated food.
Delivering food by helicopter to six camps not accessible by vehicles. These camps are inhabited by more than 15,000 survivors. Each drop contains 216 pounds of rice, 204 pounds of beans, 12 gallons of oil and 36 kilograms milk powder.
Constructing permanent latrines and clean water sites in eight camps. These new facilities will be earthquake-resistant. In addition to providing sanitation and clean water, the construction is creating jobs in affected communities.
Conducting training on the proper installation and maintenance of at least 20 emergency water purification systems, which diocesan development agents are distributing throughout Haiti. Additional water purification needs are currently being assessed so that they can be adequately addressed.
Working closely with the Diocesan Disaster Council, which has been charged by Bishop Duracin to coordinate the earthquake response and long-term recovery plans.
Collaborating with the Diocese of Virginia, whose fundraising efforts will enable the purchase of 10 more trucks for use by the Diocese of Haiti
IMA World Health
Providing 50 medicine boxes to diocesan community health workers. Each box contains enough pain relief medications, nutritional supplements, antibiotics and basic first aid supplies to assist 1,000 people in diocesan camps.
Episcopal Diocese of the Dominican Republic
Procuring and purchasing three trucks to transport supplies. Two of these trucks are being used by the Diocese of Haiti and the third is being used by the Diocese of the Dominican Republic.
Gathering critical supplies such as food, medical boxes and 400 durable, family-sized tents and 710 units of insecticide-treated plastic sheeting to construct shelters. Transporting these supplies in two weekly shipments from Santo Domingo to Port-au-Prince.
As often as possible, Episcopal Relief & Development prefers to purchase items locally. This practice supports local economic recovery, creates local employment and ensures Haitian leadership in program design and management.
To assist those suffering in the wake of this disaster, please consider making an online donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s Haiti fund or calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058. Please write “Haiti fund” in the memo of all checks.
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Senior Warden’s Column
The Long Range Planning Committee has completed the creation of a planning
questionnaire that you should have received by now. Please be sure to complete the form and
return it as soon as possible. In an attempt to save postage, no return envelope was included
with the questionnaire, but you can return it by placing it in the collection plate or dropping it off
at the church office. The committee really needs your input in their planning process.
The Vestry Forum held on Saturday, March 13th was, I think, quite successful. The topic
was Vocations and we heard from Fr. Barry and Deacon Henrietta regarding ordained
ministries. Then Vestry members spoke about each of the Commissions into which the Vestry
is organized. Following the Commission reports we heard from representatives of other
ministries including the Flower Guild, Ushers and Greeters, and the Altar Guild. Deacon
Henrietta indicated that we are still in need of Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, and especially
Eucharistic Visitors. If you or anyone you know has an interest in one or more of these
ministries, please contact, Fr. Barry, Deacon Henrietta, or me directly. As interesting and
informative as this Forum was, it was poorly attended, so help spread the word.
The Vestry at the February meeting has formally adopted the Stephen Ministry Program
and the fee to join has been paid. This Ministry is seen as a way to better address the pastoral
needs of our community. Three members of our congregation are interested in attending the
Stephen Ministry Leadership training in June. Fr. Barry also plans to attend and will pay his own
way, but we still need about $5000 to send everyone. If you can help out with a contribution
please do. If you or anyone you know might be interested in participating in this pastoral
ministry, please contact Fr. Barry or me. We have volunteers for the leadership positions who
will be thoroughly and professionally trained. We also need many others to be the Stephen
Ministers, who will receive local training.
As you can see we have much to do as well as much to be thankful for. I look forward to
working with you in the days to come.
Mo Beers
Jr. Warden Report
The painting of the Parkhill office building interior has gone well and is nearing
completion. Many thanks to the “painting team” for their time and talents contribution: Ken
Rebeck, Bill Crusey, Ernie Cordes, Frank Darzano, Garth Edwards, Ross Irwin, Gary Kern,
Steve Lawrence, and J.D. Sands
Hopefully we can start with the same process on the exterior of the Parkhill building as
warmer weather approaches.
Please mark your calendars for a St. Philips Spring Work Day Saturday May 1st for
pruning, window cleaning, picking up and pinestrawing.
Tom Trivett
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
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A few months ago I talked with you about the demographics of our congregation
followed by another article which focused on our abundance of children who are
not your run of the mill kids. That was done in part because of a conversation I
had with a former vestry person who was unaware of some of the challenges
surrounding Sunday school. Recently I was watching a preview of a series
designed to help churches incorporate special needs children and their families
into their congregations. While doing some more research before deciding to
purchase this two part video, I came across the fact that April is Autism Awareness Month. One of the
topics covered in the video series was myths that surround autism.
Autism is a spectrum disorder. There are many different disorders which fall under the Autism Spectrum
(ASD) ranging from autistic disorder to pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified. The
abilities and limitations of people with ASD vary greatly even among those with the same diagnosis.
Recently there has been a lot of attention given to ASD and statistics are being updated quickly.
Currently it is believed that one out of 110 children have some form of ASD and that can be as high as 1
out of 91 boys. In the USA it is estimated that 1% of the children aged 3-17 have ASD. As with most
things, St. Philip’s is above average in this area; 10% of our youth 3-17 are diagnosed with some form of
ASD.
Having first been identified in the early 1940’s we are still learning more information daily about autism.
While some movies and television shows have helped to introduce the general public to ASD, they have
also helped perpetuate misconceptions about autism. These myths often make it difficult for those
whose lives are not directly affected to understand those with ASD. I know all of our parents (and
grandparents) are always willing to talk with you about their child. Being the parent of one of these
wonderfully challenging children, I want to start the conversation by debunking some of the most
erroneous myths.
MYTH: Autism Spectrum disorder is a mental or emotional illness. FACT: Autism is a
neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts three areas of the brain (social, communication, and
repetitive/restricted behaviors).
MYTH: People with ASD are mentally retarded or people with ASD have savant skills. FACT: While
some people with ASD are mentally retarded and some do possess savant skills, each person with
autism is intellectually unique just like the general population.
MYTH: Repetitive or ritualistic behaviors should be stopped. FACT: Repetitive or ritualistic
behaviors actually serve a purpose; they can be calming; they can meet a sensory need; they can
help the person to communicate.
MYTH: There is a cure for autism. FACT: While adaptive behavior analysis, medication, controlled
diet and other therapies are available, there is no cure for autism. What therapy plan works for
one person with ASD may not work for another person. The same plan may not work even if it
was effective at one time.
MYTH: Parenting skills are the cause for autism. FACT: There is no single known cause for autism
but what developmental psychologists and other specialists agree is at no point does parental
involvement factor into the cause.
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MYTH: Autistic people are non-verbal. FACT: By definition, communication skills are affected but
the extents to which communication skills are limited vary person by person.
OTHER MYTHS:
o Progress means a person doesn’t have autism
o ASD can be outgrown
o Underneath all the difficult behaviors is a normal person
o Individuals with ASD do not want friends or to relate to peers/adults
o Individuals with ASD cannot show affection and do not respond to physical affection.
o Individuals with ASD are manipulative
o When a person with ASD does not respond to a question/direction to which he has shown
a previous correct response, he is being stubborn/obnoxious/non-compliant
There are many other myths about people with autism spectrum disorders but as a parent, these seem
to be the ones that I find most frustrating. Assumptions lead to misconceptions so please feel free to
ask us about our children. We would rather you ask than have myths perpetuated.
Millie
NEWCOMERS SOCIAL
Our first Newcomers Social for 2010 will be held
SUNDAY, May 16, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
At the home of
Lorraine and Dana Richardson
1365 Oak Glen Ct, SE
Winding River
If you are a new member or potential new member,
we would love to see you there
to welcome you to St. Philips in a social setting.
If you are already a member of St. Philips,
and would like to greet new members,
please bring an appetizer and join in the fun.
Please R.S.V.P. Jan Trivett (457-5881) or Ruth Smith (253-9254)
(Contact Jan for gate entrance code)
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Stewardship Beyond the Grave
‘Remembering the Church in Your Will’
‘The Minister of the Congregation is directed to instruct the people, from time to time, about
the duty of Christian parents to make prudent provision for the well-being of their families,
and of all persons to make wills, while they are in health, arranging for the disposal of their
temporal goods, not neglecting, if they are able, to leave bequests for religious and charitable
uses.’ BCP p 445
The rubric quoted above from the Book of Common Prayer speaks for itself. As we
reflect on what Bonnie Shurman reminded us of in her Ash Wednesday sermon, that it is in
our dying that we find true life, Lent is an especially appropriate time to recognize that our
stewardship extends beyond the grave. The decisions we make today (or don’t make) will
have a tremendous impact on the lives of our families, and our church, long after we have
entered the Kingdom of God.
As your pastor I urge you to consider consulting with an attorney about making a will,
even if you don’t think you need one. There are important issues around your health, your
children’s care and your assets that you need to decide. In most cases, if you have not been
proactive in making those decisions before you die, the state of North Carolina will decide for
you, and usually not in a way you would have wanted.
I would also remind you that in 2009 your Vestry established a General Endowment
Fund for St. Philip’s Church. Remembering your church when completing, or updating, your
will is a good way to provide for the ongoing mission and ministry Christ calls us to in this
place. If you’d like more information about St. Philip’s Endowment Fund please call the
church office, or contact Bill Bittenbender or Jerry Simpson, our Vestry Stewardship
Commission Co-Chairs.
Finally, thank you for all you do and for remembering that what we decide about the
gifts we have been blessed with is a direct reflection of our awareness that in our lives, God is
first, others second, and self third.
Peace and grace.
Fr. Barry+
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
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From the Deacon
This month we will focus on Habitat. For those who do not know Habitat is an international, non-profit, ecumenical Christian organization with a housing ministry. The goal is to help eliminate poverty and homelessness and provide housing. Habitat requires those for whom houses are built to participate in the building of their home as well as attend sessions about many things a homeowner needs to know. Once the house is built the homeowner makes a down payment and buys their home. They have a no interest monthly mortgage that may be for 20 years or 30 years. We at St. Philip’s have helped sponsor a home through the Interchurch Fellowship and prepared lunches for those working on a house. Builders include both the prospective homeowners and volunteers. Other ways to help strengthen this ministry: monetary gifts, building sites, building materials, volunteer labor, professional services such as printing, accounting, social work, surveying, legal, media/public relations. We now have enough crews to begin four houses a year but they can only build if they have a lot to build on and the money for materials. This does not mean that you are not needed on a building crew. There are always needs that you might just be the one to fill. There is now the Re-store located on Long Beach Road. The store is a place where items may be donated and is also a good place to shop for items you may need. As with all Habitat projects volunteers are needed to help out. For more information talk with me, stop by the Habitat office or Re-store both located on Long Beach Road.
Henrietta
Carillon Ministry
St. Philip’s is now doing services at Carillon every Sunday except for
the first Sunday of the month. We need members from St. Philip’s
to arrive around 9:15 to assist residents in getting to the service.
The service starts at 9:30. We also need more people to provide
music.
No need to “reserve” a spot in advance; just show up. For more
information contact Henrietta.
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Christian Education Calendar April
Thursday, April 1st 8:00 PM – 8:00 AM - Maundy Thursday Youth Sleepover (Sanctuary)
Sunday, April 4th EASTER NO CHRISTIAN EDUCATION 7:45 AM – Holy Eucharist 9:00 AM - Holy Eucharist (Childcare provided) 11:00 AM - Holy Eucharist (Childcare provided) Wednesday, April 7th NO BIBLE STUDY – Parish Office closed April 5th – 9th Sunday, April 11th 9:15 AM - Christian Education for adults and children 10:30AM - Children’s Chapel during the 10:30 Service Monday, April 12th 5:30 PM – Acolyte Activity (Parish Hall) Wednesday, April 14th 10:00 AM – Bible Study (Parish Hall) Friday, April 16th 12:30 PM – Acolytes leave for Acolyte Festival in Nag’s Head Sunday, April 18th 9:15 AM - Christian Education for adults and children NO YOUTH GROUP LATE EVENING – Acolytes return from Nag’s Head Wednesday, April 21st 10:00 AM – Bible Study (Parish Hall) 7:00 PM - Wednesdays with Women (Parish Office) Friday, April 23rd 6:30 PM - Movie Night – EARTH (Choir Room) Sunday, April 25th 9:15 AM - Christian Education for adults and children Wednesday, 28th 10:00 AM – Bible Study (Parish Hall)
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For this month’s Philippian I am sharing some thoughts of hymn writer Carl P. Daw, Jr., an
Episcopal priest and writer who teaches hymnology at Boston University. He is executive
director of the Hymn Society of the US and Canada and served on the selection committee for
The Hymnal 1982. His hymn texts appear in the hymnals of many denominations worldwide.
Upon completion of a large study of English parish church music, Nicholas Temperley
summarized his work by stating “hymns exist for the singers, not the audience, still less for a
critic. If a hymn tune gives pleasure to a musical connoisseur, this must be a merely incidental
benefit.”
Daw prefers to think of a hymn as a “song map of the landscape of faith.” This statement
was influenced by an address by Rowan Williams, who described Christian song as giving us a
“map of the landscape of faith.” Daw views praise and worship music as more a “snapshot of
the landscape of faith.”
Daw says, “Hymns are intended for a corporate body. They must be of use to many
people and build up a sense of shared identity and shared purpose, just as working songs,
marching songs, and protest songs do. Hymns have a ‘corporate I.’ When we sing When I Survey
the Wondrous Cross, we are sharing an intense individual experience of the cross.’ ”
“A hymn makes you believe it’s also your song if it’s capable of being sung as a common,
shared experience,” Daw states.
This communal element underlines the importance of appreciating the wealth of hymns
we have and the need to write new hymns detailing our spiritual journeys.
Daw says singing classic hymns “sends us back to places of our strength and dependence,
and ultimately brings us home to God. But we Christians also need new hymns about today’s
challenges, from Alzheimer’s and natural disasters, to feeling rootless.”
All of the above remarks refer to writing hymn texts, not the music. Writing the music for
hymns is another article.
Debbie
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
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The Worship Corner
Worship . . . the act of religious devotion directed toward God. In its various forms (prayer,
meditation, scripture, sacraments, sacrifice, sermons, chanting, music, religious holidays, festivals,
pilgrimage, dining, fasting, private individual acts of devotion, to name a few) we profess our
devotion to God and thank him for the gift of his Son. Easter is upon us . . . following the low
point of the commemoration of the crucifixion on Good Friday, we will celebrate the
Resurrection of our Lord on Easter Sunday and the fullfillment of the Old Testament scriptures.
The gift of the risen Christ is ours for the asking. There are no “strings” attached, but there is an
expectation . . . that we share this gift with everyone. In today’s terms this would be referred to as
“paying it forward.” As we move through the Easter season toward the celebration of Pentecost,
there are many and various opportunities for sharing and worshipping and there are many people
who do not regularly attend church or profess to believe in God. (Rhetorical) How would I feel if
I found out that someone did not attend church or have the opportunity to know the Christ
because I had not spoken to him/her?
John Reinsburrow
Stewardship Corner
This month our “Time and Talent” feature is the Altar Guild. The St. Philip’s web site states”
The Altar Guild prepares all things necessary for the celebration of the Eucharist or any of the
other church sacraments so they may be conducted in decency, order, and beauty.” This dedicated
group of 30 plus men and women set up the altar for all services and then wash, iron, and fold the
linens, polish the silver and brass, and put everything away in its proper place in preparation for
the next time they are needed. The Altar Guild is grouped in teams which each serve two months
out of the year.
How can you get involved with this group which exhibits such a strong example of
Stewardship? Contact Harriet Powell at 278-7714 or the Parish office at 457-5643.
Jerry Simpson and Bill Bittenbender
ANNUAL BRUNSWICK TOWN CELEBRATION
MAY 2ND
AT 10:30 AM
Mark your calendars! Sunday, May 2nd
is our annual worship and picnic celebration on
the ground’s of St. Philip’s in Brunswick Town.
We will have our regular 8AM worship in the Chapel of the Cross and then gather for a
10:30 service on the grounds of Old St. Philip’s.
Remember. . .Wear casual clothes, bring a covered dish to share and a comfortable chair!
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
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The Library Mouse
Please welcome St. Philips Library’s new mascot: the Library Mouse (©Daniel
Kirk, 2007) [STOP RUMORS HERE: There have been no real mouse sightings
in the library or at St. Philips.] You’ll be seeing the Library Mouse icon here in
the Philippian and other places to call your attention to library information. For
example, there are folders on the magazine rack in the narthex with lists of
library books by title, author, and subject. But most people don’t know they are
there, because you have to look closely to see what they are. The Library Mouse
icon will help you spot those folders that contain something about the library you might find of
interest.
The Library Mouse has two requests this month:
PLEASE sign out your books. Use the card inside the back cover of the book to put your name
and date you took the book. Put the card in the small cherry box on top of the middle bookcase.
When your return it, put the card back in the book and shelf the book according to the number on
the spine.
PLEASE let us know who you are when you donate books. Put all your books in some kind of
bag. There will soon be a basket for your donation next to the bookcases. You’ll find near the
basket a small form on which to write your name. The form also asks if we can acknowledge
your donation with a book plate. Put your form in the bag with your books.
The Library Mouse is way behind on cataloging books, but the process is moving along.
SEE YOU IN THE LIBRARY!
Bonnie
ST. PHILIP’S MEN’S CLUB BREAKFAST
THE ST. PHILIP’S MEN’S CLUB will serve a full breakfast on Sunday, April 11th, in
the parish hall from 8:30 until 10:00 AM. (Note the one time shift to the second
Sunday). We welcome all members of St. Philip’s, their guests and visitors.
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
Page 17
St. Philip’s Movie Night Celebrates Earth Day
April 23, 2010 6:30 PM
Disney Nature’s
Rated G
An epic story of adventure, starring some of the most magnificent and courageous
creatures alive, awaits you in earth. Disney Nature brings you a remarkable story
of three animal families on a journey across our planet -- polar bears, elephants
and humpback whales.
Filmed with spectacular clarity and beauty, earth is both majestic and intimate as
it captures rare footage of nature's wildest and most elusive animals. From the landmark Disney Nature collection, earth is an astonishing and heartwarming film
filled with adventure, suspense and humor that will take your breath away. Narrated by James Earl Jones
Popcorn and drinks will be available.
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
Page 18
APRIL LECTIONARIES
April 4th (Easter Sunday)
Acts 10:34-43
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
1 Corinthians 15:19-26
John 20:1-18
April 18th
Acts 9:1-6 (7-20)
Psalm 30
Revelation 5:11-14
John 21:1-19
April 11th
Acts 5:27-32
Psalm 150
Revelation 1:1-8
John 20:19-31
April 25th
Acts 9:36-43
Psalm 23
Revelation 7:9-17
John 10:22-30
BAZAAR BUZZ
A reminder that there will be a Stamping Workshop at the Parish Hall on
April 24 from 9:30 until noon followed by lunch at Baked with Love. There are jobs for everyone! If you don't want to do the stamping, then what about helping with the packaging? Please contact Jan if you are interested in this workshop, [email protected] or 457-5881. Theresa Zell is having a get together on March 25th to discuss sewing projects for the bazaar. If you are interested, please call Theresa, 457-9032. Please add two more workshops to your calendar, both at Ida Parker's home: Shells: Friday, May 14th from 10-2 Corks: Friday, September 10th from 10-2 Please bring a glue gun to both and things that might be used for these projects.
Join in the fun as we all work together for a successful Bazaar!
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
Page 19
Vacation Bible School
July 11 – 15, 2010
5:30PM – 8:00 PM
Ages 3 years – Adults
(Including Middle and High School Youth)
Leaders/Helpers are needed for
Cosmic Crafts Starship Galactic Praise
Orbital Observatory Adult VBS
Moons & Tunes Youth VBS
Good News Galaxy Preschool
Rocket Recreation Mission Pilots
To register (Youth & Adults need to register as well) or to
volunteer, go to www.stphilipschurch.org and follow the
link to St. Philip’s Vacation Bible School. From there you
can click on participant or volunteer links.
Children registered before May 15th will receive a game CD. For more information, contact Millie at 457-5643 or
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church April, 2010
Page 20
April Birthdays
2nd
Jan Trivett 15th
Erinn Hughes
Taylor Jolliff 16th
Thomas Disher
3rd
Spunky Burton 18th
Shay Watkins
4th
Richard Sim Jan Fairley
Debbie Skillman 19th
Ennis Hardin
6th
Nancy Bush Lorraine Richardson
Karen Griffin 20th
Teresa Conrad
Katherine Mabe Heather Titrington
7th
Larry Oyler Chloe Esakov
Suzanne Vacirca 23rd
Cissy Kitchin
9th
Clarkson Jones Maryann Darzano
Chris Young Dolores Thompson
10th
Jenny Lee Caitlyn Lewis
Olivia Hennessey 25th
Bill Crusey
11th
Barbara Edwards Joyce Robinson
Heather Adams 26th
Draden Moore
12th
Jane Mitchell John Luey
Dick Stone Dinah Snead
Tom Izod 28th
Karen Sage
13th
Harriet Wheeler Amanda Lewis
14th
Mark Levesque 29th
Lois Sprinthall
Bud Birmelin 30th
Tina Berne
Jim MacCallum
Church Organization
Bishop of the Diocese of East Carolina: The Rt. Rev. Clifton Daniel III
Assisting Bishop: The Rt. Rev. Santosh Marray
Rector: The Rev. Barry P. Kubler Organist/Choirmaster: Debbie Skillman
Parish Secretary: Natasha Tatum Sexton: George Ball
Deacon: Henrietta Williams Communications Coordinator: Lyn Sutton
Director of Christian Education: Millie Hart Episcopal Relief & Development
Representative: Jacob Pfohl
Vestry
Senior Warden: Mo Beers Clerk: Gene Myers
Junior Warden: Tom Trivett Finance Officer: Wayne John
2008-2010: Neal Sage, Sharon Sands, Jerry Simpson, Bill Zell
2009-2011: Mo Beers, Linda Brinson, Bill Meiners, John Reinsburrow
2010-2012: Tina Berne, Bill Bittenbender, Bryden Manning, Tom Trivett
Philippian Editorial Staff
Mike & Kathy Burke, Vonceal Kubler
Email: [email protected]
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church
East Moore & Dry Streets
P.O. Box 10476
Southport, NC 28461
Return Service Requested
Southport, NC 28461
U.S. Postage Paid
Permit #10
NON-PROFIT