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Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist: Rite II

October 4, 2020 - 10:30 AM

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The Word of God

Organ Prelude Chanson de Matin E. Elgar Opening Hymn 613 Thy Kingdom Come, O God

Meter: 66. 66 Words: Lewis Hensley (1824-1905), alt. Music: St. Cecelia, Leighton George Hayne (1836-1883)

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Presider: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen. Presider: There is one Body and one Spirit; People: There is one hope in God’s call to us; Presider: One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism; People: One God and Father of all.

The Collect of the Day Presider: The Lord be with you. People: And also with you. Presider: Let us pray. Silence.

A lmighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve: Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us

those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The Lessons The First Reading Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20

Reader: A reading from the book of Exodus

Then God spoke all these words:

I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you

shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in the form of

anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the

earth. You shall not make wrongful use of the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not acquit

anyone who misuses his name. Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy. For six days you shall

labour and do all your work. Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the

land that the Lord your God is giving you. You shall not murder. You shall not commit adultery. You

shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your

neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or male or female slave, or ox, or donkey,

or anything that belongs to your neighbor.

When all the people witnessed the thunder and lightning, the sound of the trumpet, and the

mountain smoking, they were afraid and trembled and stood at a distance, and said to Moses, “You

speak to us, and we will listen; but do not let God speak to us, or we will die.” Moses said to the

people, “Do not be afraid; for God has come only to test you and to put the fear of him upon you so

that you do not sin.”

Reader: The word of the Lord

People: Thanks be to God.

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Psalm 19 sung by the choir chant by S.S. Wesley

1 The heavens declare the glory of God, *

and the firmament shows his handiwork.

2 One day tells its tale to another, *

and one night imparts knowledge to another.

3 Although they have no words or language, *

and their voices are not heard,

4 Their sound has gone out into all lands, *

and their message to the ends of the world.

5 In the deep has he set a pavilion for the sun; *

it comes forth like a bridegroom out of his chamber;

it rejoices like a champion to run its course.

6 It goes forth from the uttermost edge of the heavens

and runs about to the end of it again; *

nothing is hidden from its burning heat.

7 The law of the Lord is perfect

and revives the soul; *

the testimony of the Lord is sure

and gives wisdom to the innocent.

8 The statutes of the Lord are just

and rejoice the heart; *

the commandment of the Lord is clear

and gives light to the eyes.

9 The fear of the Lord is clean

and endures for ever; *

the judgments of the Lord are true

and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold,

more than much fine gold, *

sweeter far than honey,

than honey in the comb.

11 By them also is your servant enlightened, *

and in keeping them there is great reward.

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12 Who can tell how often he offends? *

cleanse me from my secret faults.

13 Above all, keep your servant from presumptuous sins;

let them not get dominion over me; *

then shall I be whole and sound,

and innocent of a great offense.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my

heart be acceptable in your sight, *

O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.

The Second Reading Philippians 3:4b-14

Reader: A reading from the letter of Paul to the Philippians

I f anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a

member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law,

a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.

Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I

regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his

sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ

and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that

comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and

the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if

somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my

own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my

own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I

press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.

Reader: The word of the Lord

People: Thanks be to God.

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Gospel Hymn 559 Lead us, Heavenly Father, Lead Us

Meter: 87. 87. 87

Words: James Edmeston (1791-1867), alt.

Music: Dulce carmen, melody from An Essay on the Church Plain Chant, 1782; adapt. Collection of Motetts or Antiphons, ca 1840; harm. William Henry Monk (1823-1889)

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The Gospel Stand Matthew 21:33-46

Deacon: The Holy Gospel of our Savior Jesus Christ according to Matthew

People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

J esus said, “Listen to another parable. There was a landowner who planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a wine press in it, and built a watchtower. Then he leased it to tenants and went to

another country. When the harvest time had come, he sent his slaves to the tenants to collect his produce. But the tenants seized his slaves and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other slaves, more than the first; and they treated them in the same way. Finally he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and get his inheritance.” So they seized him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. Now when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and lease the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the produce at the harvest time.”

Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the scriptures: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is amazing in our eyes’?

Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that produces the fruits of the kingdom. The one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and it will crush anyone on whom it falls.”

When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they realized that he was speaking about them. They wanted to arrest him, but they feared the crowds, because they regarded him as a prophet.

Deacon: The Gospel of the Lord People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

The Sermon The Rev. Danny Schieffler

Silence

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The Presentation and Examination of the Candidate

Presider: The Candidate for Holy Baptism will now be presented Sponsors: I present Palmer Olivia Wynne to receive the Sacrament of Baptism. When all have been presented the Presider asks the parents and godparents:

Will you be responsible for seeing that the child you present is brought up in the Christian faith and life?

Parents and Godparents: I will, with God’s help. Presider: Will you by your prayers and witness help this child to grow into the full stature of Christ? Sponsors: We will, with God’s help.

Then the Presider asks the following questions of the parents and godparents:

Question: Do you renounce Satan and all the spiritual forces of wickedness that rebel against God? Answer: I renounce them. Question: Do you renounce the evil powers of this world which corrupt and destroy the creatures of God? Answer: I renounce them. Question: Do you renounce all sinful desires that draw you from the love of God? Answer: I renounce them. Question: Do you turn to Jesus Christ and accept him as your Savior? Answer: I do. Question: Do you put your whole trust in his grace and love? Answer: I do. Question: Do you promise to follow and obey him as your Lord? Answer: I do. The Presider addresses the congregation, saying

Will you who witness these vows do all in your power to support this person in her life in Christ?

People: We will. The Presider then says these or similar words

Let us join with those who are committing themselves to Christ and renew our own baptismal covenant.

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The Baptismal Covenant Presider Do you believe in God the Father?

People I believe in God, the Father almighty,

creator of heaven and earth.

Presider Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

People I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,

He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit

and born of the Virgin Mary.

He suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, died, and was buried.

He descended to the dead.

On the third day he rose again.

He ascended into heaven,

and is seated at the right hand of the Father.

He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Presider Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?

People I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic Church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting.

Presider Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of the bread,

and in the prayers?

People I will, with God's help.

Presider Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to

the Lord?

People I will, with God's help.

Presider Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ?

People I will, with God's help.

Presider Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?

People I will, with God's help.

Presider Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every

human being?

People I will, with God's help.

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Prayers for the Candidates

Presider: Let us now pray for this person who is to receive the Sacrament of new birth

Deacon: Deliver her, O Lord, from the way of sin and death.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Deacon: Open her heart to your grace and truth.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Deacon: Fill her with your holy and life-giving Spirit.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Deacon: Keep her in the faith and communion of your holy Church.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Deacon: Teach her to love others in the power of the Spirit.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Deacon: Send her into the world in witness to your love.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Deacon: Bring her to the fullness of your peace and glory.

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Presider: Grant, O Lord, that all who are baptized into the death of Jesus Christ your Son may live

in the power of his resurrection and look for him to come again in glory; who lives and

reigns now and forever. Amen.

Thanksgiving over the Water

Presider The Lord be with you. People And also with you. Presider Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. People It is right to give him thanks and praise.

We thank you, Almighty God, for the gift of water. Over it the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation. Through it you led the children of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt into the land of promise. In it your Son Jesus received the baptism of John and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ, to lead us, through his death and resurrection, from the bondage of sin into everlasting life.

We thank you, Father, for the water of Baptism. In it we are buried with Christ in his death. By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit. Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son, we bring into his fellowship those who come to him in faith, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

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At the following words, the Presider touches the water Now sanctify this water, we pray you, by the power of your Holy Spirit, that she who is cleansed from sin and born again may continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Savior. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

The Baptism

Each candidate is presented by name to the Celebrant, or to an assisting priest or deacon, who then

immerses, or pours water upon, the candidate, saying

Palmer Olivia, I baptize you in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy

Spirit. Amen.

Then the Bishop or Priest places a hand on the person’s head, marking on the forehead the sign of the

cross [using Chrism if desired] and saying to each one

Palmer Olivia, you are sealed by the Holy Spirit in Baptism and marked as Christ’s own

for ever Amen.

Presider: Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank you that by water and the Holy Spirit you have bestowed

upon this your servant the forgiveness of sin, and have raised her to the new life of

grace. Sustain her, O Lord, in your Holy Spirit. Give her an inquiring and discerning heart,

the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy

and wonder in all your works. Amen.

Presider: Let us welcome the newly baptized.

All: We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified,

proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.

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The Peace Please stand.

Presider: The peace of the Lord be always with you. People: And also with you. The ministers and people greet one another in the peace of God. Thank you for your contributions to support the work of Saint Mark’s. One way to give immediately during this offertory time is through Venmo: @lovesaintmarks. If you are a visitor please fill out our online visitors form under the “Visitors” tab on our webpage lovesaintmarks.com

Admission of Catechumens

The Celebrant asks the following question of those to be admitted: What do you seek?

Catechumens: Life in Christ.

The Celebrant then says: Jesus said, “The first commandment is this: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is the only Lord.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your

neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” Do you accept these commandments?

Catechumens: I do.

Celebrant: Do you promise to be regular in attending the worship of God and in receiving instruction?

Catechumens: I do.

Celebrant: Will you open your ears to hear the Word of God and your heart and mind to receive the Lord Jesus?

Catechumens: I do.

Those to be admitted kneel. The Celebrant extends a hand toward them and says: May Almighty God, our heavenly

Father, who has put the desire into your hearts to seek the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, grant you the power of the

Holy Spirit to persevere in this intention and to grow in faith and understanding.

People: Amen.

Birthday Prayer Watch over thy children, O Lord, as their days increase; bless and guide them wherever they may be. Strengthen them when they stand; comfort them when discouraged or sorrowful; raise them up when they fall; and in their hearts may thy peace which passeth understanding abide all the days of their lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Offertory Anthem Soul of my Savior

Soul of my Saviour, sanctify my breast, body of Christ, be thou my saving guest, blood of my Saviour,

bathe me in thy tide, wash me with water flowing from thy side. Strength and protection may thy Pas-

sion be, O blessèd Jesu, hear and answer me; deep in thy wounds, Lord, hide and shelter me, so shall I

never, never part from thee. Guard and defend me from the foe malign, in death's dread moments

make me only thine; call me and bid me come to thee on high where I may praise thee with thy saints

for ay.

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The Holy Communion

The Great Thanksgiving, Eucharistic Prayer A

Presider The Lord be with you. People And also with you. Presider Lift up your hearts. People We lift them to the Lord. Presider Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. People It is right to give him thanks and praise. Presider: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. For you are the source of light and life, you made us in your image, and called us to new life in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

Title: The Holy Eucharist II, Holy, holy, holy Lord: Sanctus Music: Robert Powell (b. 1932) Copyright: Setting: Copyright © Church Publishing, Inc.

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Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself; and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world. On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, in this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Recalling his death, resurrection, and ascension, we offer you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom. All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ. By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and for ever. AMEN. Presider: As our Savior Christ has taught us, we are bold to say:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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The Breaking of the Bread

Presider: Alleluia. Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us;

People: Therefore let us keep the feast. Alleluia.

Silence is kept Presider: The Gifts of God for the People of God. And may add: Take them in remembrance that Christ died for you, and feed on him in your hearts by

faith, with thanksgiving.

Communion Hymn 508 Breathe on me, Breath of God

Meter: SM

Words: Edwin Hatch (1835-1889), alt.

Music: Nova Vita, Lister R. Peace (1885-1969)

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After Communion Presider: Let us pray. People: Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted us as living members of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have fed us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of his Body and Blood. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Blessing Presider: May this Sabbath day of rest repair the wear of time, restore your vision of a deeper light, heal the wounds of disappointments, and restore youth of heart for the adventure that awaits you tomorrow. And the blessing of God almighty, the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit be with you and remain with you always. Amen. The Dismissal Deacon: Let us go forth in the name of Christ. People: Thanks be to God.

Recessional Ceremonial March H. Sumsion

Today, Palmer Olivia Wynne, daughter of Grant and Anne Elizabeth Wynne, received the sacrament

of Holy Baptism.

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More Worship Opportunities

Morning Prayer Morning Prayer leaders are praying the office starting at 8:30, Monday - Friday. Everyone is invited to join. The service will be in front of the outdoor altar in the Columbarium. Please bring your own prayer book or mobile device to following along with the prayers. Please wear a mask and maintain all social distance guidelines.

Compline Compline is said on FB live at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday nights (12 Step) and Saturday nights

Come Pray in the Chapel We know that many of you have missed being in the church. During regular office hours, the Church and Chapel will be open for you to go inside to sit and pray in quiet. Please enter through the Chapel door and sign the book as you enter. Masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes will be available as you enter. We ask that before leaving, please wipe down any area that you may have come in contact with.

More ways to Worship with us Live Online Sunday Mornings In addition to already being able to watch live on our Facebook you can also find us on our Youtube account, or right on our own website. Links to all three are here: Website: https://lovesaintmarks.org/videos/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAz8LphdVj-dkDFCxism5jQ/live Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stmarkslr/?ref=bookmarks

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Parish Notes

Bishop to Confirm and Receive Next Sunday Bishop Larry Benfield will visit Saint Mark’s on Sunday, October 11. At the

8:00 service, he will confirm, receive and reaffirm baptismal vows of those who wish to make these commitments.

Anyone wishing to be part of this must let the parish office (225-4203) know by Monday October 5, so we can reserve the

correct number of seats. The Bishop will also stay to preach and celebrate at the 10:30 service.

What’s the Big Deal About the Bishop Coming? Bishops are important to the Episcopal Church; so important, it's our church's namesake. One of the Bishop's essential roles is to serve as an outward sign of the unity of all the parishes in our diocese. We aren't just members of Saint Mark's but members of the Episcopal Church in Arkansas.

About once a year, our Bishop, as chief pastor of the diocese, will come to Saint Mark's to celebrate the Eucharist, preach, confirm, re-affirm, and receive members into the Episcopal Church. Our Catechesis explains that "Confirmation is the rite in which we express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop." Confirmation, together with reception and reaffirmation, means that every member of the diocese will come in direct contact with the Bishop at least once. The Bishop's visit connects each one of us to our whole church in Arkansas, and, through Apostolic succession, to all Christians in Christ's Apostolic church that came before us and will come after us.

During a year where our physical connections have been diminished, Bishops are more critical than ever. Their order is our connection to the whole church. They remind us that even though we have to stay six feet away from each other for now, we are always connected through our "one Lord, one Faith, and one Baptism." No virus will ever be able to separate that bond.

Welcome, New Members! This Sunday at the 8:00 service, Saint Mark’s welcomes Sharon Gavin and Paul Chenault as new members. Please help them feel welcome.

Drive-Thru Pet Blessing Today In honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Mark's is hosting a drive-through pet blessing on Sunday morning, October 4, from 11:30 - 12:30. Bring your animal companion to be blessed by one of our priests and get a Saint Francis' medal-- all while staying in the comfort of your car. All species of pets are welcome. Please help keep Saint Mark's safe by remembering to wear your masks! You're also encouraged to bring dog and/or cat food which Saint Mark's Food Pantry will distribute to our clients who have pets.

Braver Angels Tackles Political Polarization Monday, October 5, 6-7:30pm, they will have a panel discussing various aspects of political polarization, including its causes, influences, impacts & solutions. The panel, will consist of: Glen White, a local psychologist, who will report on what social sciences research has to say about political polarization; Jerry Henderson, a retired psychologist, who will explore the latest thinking among political scientists and others about how polarization can have detrimental impacts on democratic governments; and April Chatham-Carpenter, UA Little Rock Professor in Applied Communication, who will focus on various communication practices that help us improve our political conversations. Attendees will be able to pose questions to the panel as well. Come join us! Feel free to forward this email widely to those who may be interested. To register and obtain a link for the program, go to Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/braver-angels-panel-discussion-on-polarization-registration-121817592699.

Arkansas ECW Fall Gathering This year’s Fall Gathering will be held virtually on Oct. 10, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Jerusalem Greer, staff officer for evangelism at the National Episcopal Church, will speak on The Good News of Change — Faith, Race, and Living Through a Pandemic. Learn more about Fall Gathering and other ECW events on the ECW website http://arkansasecw.org/

All Saints Prayer List Saint Mark’s will remember the faithful departed on All Saints Sunday, November 1. To add a name to the All Saints memorial list (to be printed in the order of service), please email the name to secretary@st-marks.com. Names must be received by Tuesday, October 27. Those buried in the Columbarium will automatically be added to the memorial list. To contribute to the placing of flowers on each marker in the Columbarium, you may make a donation to St. Mark’s Columbarium Fund. Names of parishioners who have died since the last All Saints celebration will be read aloud as our special intention prior to both morning services on All Saints Sunday. We will read the names of all interred in the Columbarium at a special service at the outdoor altar at 4:30 that day.

Author to Speak October 18 Shea Tuttle, author of Exactly As You Are: The Life and Faith of Mister Rogers, will present a book talk on Sunday, October 18, at 7 pm as part of the Central Arkansas Library System’s Six Bridges Book Festival. The festival is a virtual event this year with over 50 authors speaking October 8-18. The book festival program will be in the

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Jesus and Justice

This Sunday October 4, we will be studying in the Forum at 9:15 the last chapter of Biblical Justice about what we know

about justice from Jesus in the New Testament. We learn about Jesus’ views on justice through his life and his teachings.

Think of stories in Jesus’s ministry where you find his teachings on justice in these four areas:

He rejected Social Discrimination

He was a critic of Economic Injustice

He had a mistrust of Institutional Power

He repudiated War and violence

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Formation and Youth

Musical Class on Thursday Evenings You don’t need anything other than an interest in or curiosity for music to be able to enjoy this offering from organist/choirmaster, Tim Allen. Each week we will discuss a well-known musical masterpiece. Next week's piece for the Music Explorers Group will be the Adagio by Samuel Barber, a true American classic. It is some-times referred to as the “American Nimrod" (Elgar's famous slow piece from the Enigma Variations). It has a fascinating and a mystical story. Join us on Thursday 8, October at 7pm, via Zoom. Contact Tim Allen tallen@st-marks.com for full details, and he will forward you the link.

Children's Sunday School This year’s program will be a mix of VBS, Children's Chapel and what we would do in the class-room. Until we are able to meet in person, we will meet over Zoom. I know Zoom isn't the same as in person, but as a parent, I promise we will make the time they spend with us worth it! They will need a Worship Tool Box to use each week. It is filled with all sorts of interactive spiritual goodies. If your child wants to participate, we will get one to you! Luke Gilbert will leave one in the office or deliver it to you. Children 3y-5th grade can have a fun and interactive Bible story lesson each week. From 9:30-9:45 we will share music, games, and the weekly story. From 9:45-10:00 the kids will join their teachers in zoom breakout rooms to worship and react to the story. All will come back together at 10:00 for a closing video and prayer. We hope these 30 minutes will help your child grow in God's love each week! Contact Luke with questions lgilbert@st-marks.com.

Youth Sunday School: Think. Believe. Do. We will begin Sunday school via Zoom this Sunday at 9:15am. Youth in 6th-12th grade are invited to join us to think about faith, grow in our beliefs and do the work of God in the world. Zoom info: Meeting ID: 833 5617 9439 Password: tbd2020

EYC Registration Open! At Saint Mark's we recognize how important community is to the spiritual and mental well-being of our young people. With that in mind, we are excited to offer small group programming for Fall 2020. This is the best way for us to allow in person gathering for our young people, while keeping safety and health as our highest priority. Because of this, we are asking that every youth who plans to attend EYC this Fall register in advance for the semester. Each small group is limited to 12 youth. Registration is required: https://forms.gle/WpCD5i4EWu7KBA1e7 We plan to have three small groups this Fall:

• 6th grade: meets from 6-7pm in the Close (grassy area between church and Youth Hall) or the Youth Hall if weather is bad

• 7th and 8th grade: meets from 6-7pm in the English garden (outside the south doors of the Parish Hall) or the Parish Hall if weather is bad

Sr High: meets from 7-8 in the Close (grassy area between church and Youth Hall) or the Youth Hall if weather is bad

Summer Camp 2021 Schedule We are very excited to offer a Christian Formation camping experience in Summer 2021 at the Vines Center (formerly the 4-H Center) just outside Little Rock. In addition to camp songs, camp games, and your favorite camp friends, expect new activities like canoeing, ropes course adventures, and many other programs run in partnership with the Arkansas outdoor school. Camps are one day shorter than past years and therefore the cost will be less also. Applications for staff and volunteer positions will go out in November, and we hope to have summer camp appli-cations online in December. For more information and questions, contact Randall Curtis at rcur-tis@episcopalarkansas.org.

Boy Scouts at Saint Mark’s BSA Troop 7 at Saint Mark's has been in place since 1954 and during this time, the troop has produced over 100 Eagle Scouts and has enhanced the lives of hundreds of young men and adult leaders that have a love of the outdoors and a penchant for serving others. Recent activities include canoeing on the Buffalo River, over-night camping, backpacking trips, day hikes, visiting historic sites, service projects in the community. With precautions in place with COVID19 in mind, Troop 7 has begun meeting again for the new school year and is open to any boys inter-ested in being a part of this vibrant group. Participants must be at least 11 years old or have completed the fifth grade, and not more than 18 years old. Troop 7 meets on Monday evenings from 6:30 pm to 7:15 pm. Please contact David Mann, Scoutmaster, for more information 501-944-2474, dkaamann@sbcglobal.net.

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Arkansas ECW Fall Gathering This year’s Fall Gathering will be held virtually on Oct. 10, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Jerusalem Greer, staff officer for evangelism at the National Episcopal Church, will speak on The Good News of Change — Faith, Race, and Living Through a Pandemic. Learn more about Fall Gathering and other ECW events on the ECW website http://arkansasecw.org/

Author to Speak October 18 Shea Tuttle, author of Exactly As You Are: The Life and Faith of Mister Rogers, will present a book talk on Sunday, October 18, at 7 pm as part of the Central Arkansas Library System’s Six Bridges Book Festival. The festival is a virtual event this year with over 50 authors speaking October 8-18. The book festival program will be in the Sunday, September 27 Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. All talks are free. Here’s a link to the library’s site so you can register to attend. Saint Mark’s and the Betty Rowland Wittenberg Foundation are sponsoring Shea Tuttle. The full list of authors and a description of their books is here. WordsWorth Books is the book seller for the book festival and has Tuttle’s book in stock. Additionally, Shea and others are signing book plates to be placed in their books, so you may purchase a signed copy.

2020 Pride Fest to be Virtual The 8th annual Central Arkansas Pride Fest will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, on Facebook Live. Churches are invited to participate by submitting a video clip.

New Book From Deacon Joanna The Rev. Dr. Joanna Seibert will host a Release Party for A Daily Spiritual Rx for Ordinary Times, a book which completes her trilogy of daily readings for the year. There will be a drive by signing at the portico at Saint Mark’s at 10 am on Saturday, October 17. Wear a mask and books will be brought to your car. Books are $18, and you may use cash, check (written to Camp Mitchell), or credit card, with all proceeds going to Camp Mitchell. Contact Joanna Seibert if you are coming.

Election Day Vigil Tuesday, November 3 From 9a.m.- 5:00 p.m., the Daughters of the King will sponsor an Election Day Prayer Vigil. The Church and Chapel will be open to sit and pray in quiet. Enter through the Chapel, and sign the book as you enter. Wear a mask, go into the sanctuary and sit at one of the X spots in the pews. Wipe off your sit after you leave. Masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes are available If you decide to go to the Chapel, only four people can be there at a time. It is preferable that people go to the larger church where air circulation is better. You may also light a votive candle. Before leaving, please wipe down any area that you may have come in contact with. Bless you for being a part of this Vigil on Election Day. Our country is in need of your prayers. Prayers are at the door. You may download the prayers to bring with you to decrease paper handling. For prayers, contact joannaseibert@me.com or jblakneybai-ley@yahoo.com.

Small Group Guidelines Small groups (15 people max) may begin meeting again on Saint Mark’s campus. The group is to

think carefully about whether meeting in person is better than Zoom and ask members if they feel safe and comfortable

meeting in person. If someone can’t come, and you decide to meet in person anyway, is there a way to include them via

Zoom or FaceTime? How? To assist groups in making a decision, we have prepared extensive guidelines. Read all the

guidelines on our website

https://lovesaintmarks.org/guidelines-for-small-group-gatherings-at-saint-marks/

Food Pantry Continues to Serve 8:30 am – 10:00am Thursdays Saint Mark's Food Pantry, with help from the League of Women Voters, is offering voting help during the month of September. We'll have Voter Registration Forms, Applications for Absentee Voting, and information about deadlines and dates. This will be at the EYC Center during regular Pantry times (Thursdays, 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.) and Saint Mark's members and friends are welcome to attend. Current food needs: Jelly, Mac & cheese, loaves of sliced bread

Condolences We send our heartfelt prayers and condolences to Michael McCain and his family on the recent death of his grandmother, Bev McCain. We also extend prayers and sympathy to Steve Garrett and his family on the recent death of his mother, Ruth Garrett

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Prayer List for the Coming Week

For the Episcopal Church Justin, The Archbishop of Canterbury; Michael, the Presiding Bishop; Larry, our Bishop; our cler-gy, Danny, Michael, Patricia, Susan, Joanna and Billy; our Staff & Vestry

In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer: Pray for the Anglican Church of Tanzania

In the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: St. John’s, Camden; St. Nicholas’, Maumelle

For peace and an end to terrorism, oppression, poverty, pollution, persecution

For our staff: Karen Blissit, Parish Administrator

For our parish ministries, especially: St. Mark’s Men’s Bible Study

For the safety of first responders, healthcare workers and those in the military, especially: Megan Witzke, Sam, Breen, Marshall

For those commended to our prayers: Don, Tim Woods, Cole Jeffries, Austin, John, Madison Moore, Paul Gilman, Rachel, Mary Thompson, Dean Hicks, Irene Glasgow, Diana Boston, Betsy Depenau, Carl Gessler, Cynthia Fisher, Lauri Williams, Samantha, Dale, Ashley, Jerry Didier, Mathieu, Craig Chotard, Becky Moore, Ward, Kim Harrelson, Bailey Hernandez and her family, Bobbe Drake, Mary Sue Jacobs, the Weber family, Sue, Judi Blevins, Rita McGee, Alex, Wayne, Karen Head, Suzanne Hawkins, Mary Ann Nilles, Don Strother, Rod Adams, Ashley, Skylina Ann Morris, Peggie Howard

Birthdays: Elise Siegler, Meredith Ellis, Mary Ann Gammill, Tim Head, Carson Moore, Sanford Wilbourn, Ann Bailey, The-resa Bennett, Michael Langley, Rob Richardson, Finley Young, George Badley, Evelyn Brown, Harper Hicks, Charlotte Whitbeck, Henry Jordan, Emily Spivey, Dao Ward, Marlise McCracken, Gareth Hughes, Dorsey Jackson, Jamie Matthews, Kevin Raney, Dylan Woodell

Wedding Anniversaries: Jay & Lisa Gandy

For those who died: Bev McCain, Ruth Garrett, Meryl Greenslade