Glimpses of the Kingdom

Transcription

1 Borrego Springs, California July 2015 Volume 18 Issue 7 Glimpses of the Kingdom What a week we just had! The Supreme Court upheld marriage equality and healthcare insurance for those who otherwise could not afford it. To my eyes these compassionate, healing and justice seeking actions by our secular court system, look like glimpses of God s kingdom breaking through. As Christians we want to emulate such Christ-like actions, and we pray for them in our world. And then, like a miracle, they are enacted so visibly on a national scale. I join the jubilant response of so many people to these landmark decisions in favor of affordable healthcare and marriage equality. It is as if a window has opened to let in the enlivening winds of care and respect for the dignity of all human beings, not just in our own actions according to our Baptismal promises, but as a national commitment. Can you see it too, glimpses of the Kingdom breaking through? And also, this week at the General convention of our Episcopal Church, the bishop of North Carolina, The Right Rev. Michael Curry was elected our next Presiding Bishop to succeed Katherine Jefferts-Schori! We could not be in better hands. I have met him and been inspired by his spirit, compassion, honest and humble humanity, and passion for justice. He was the rector of our sister church, St. James, Lafayette in the inner city when I was a member of St. James, Monkton in the suburbs of Baltimore. His congregation was doing God s loving and lively work not only transforming its community but also enlivening the diocese. From there Rev. Curry was called to be bishop of North Carolina, and his voice has been a passionate one for justice and care among all human beings. You will love him. What a week; my feet are not yet touching the ground. Blessings afloat in God s goodness! Laura+

2 Dear ones, June 26, 2015 Today's Supreme Court decision on marriage equality brings to a close the legal questions regarding marriage. In his majority opinion, Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy states, "The court now holds that same-sex couples may exercise the fundamental right to marry. No longer may this liberty be denied to them." As one who believes that love and marriage should be available to all, I am thankful for this decision. I remember the words of Martin Luther King, Jr.: "The arc of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice." Thus, today is a day of thanksgiving for me and for so many who have personally felt pain and injustice in their lives. However, this 5-4 decision points to the reality that, despite much change in the last two years, many disagree with this decision--some on religious and theological grounds. I would suggest that as we give thanks, we also remain aware that this is still a place of disagreement. Our yearning for the peaceable kingdom calls upon us to be sensitive to the reality that while this decision of our highest court concludes the political debate, we must hold space for continued conversation in which we honor all. -- The Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes, Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego St Barnabas Prayer List We pray especially for Our Men and Women in uniform, Tootie Hatch, Richard & Nancy Bye, Kurt Levins, Paul Carroll, Jim Carroll, Jacob Thompson, Kay Sharkey, Ann Easley, Laureana Easley, Leila, Austin, Suntii, Jean Smith, David Born, Verna Robinson, Wendy Christy, Michael, Barbara Scott, Judy Dehler, Marge Kerr, Carol Sargent, Betty Patterson, Ed Brisbine, Larry Cusey, Louise Burmester and Rosie.

3 GENERAL CONVENTION APPROVES MARRIAGE EQUALITY The House of Deputies on Wednesday July 1, made marriage equality a reality in the Episcopal Church by concurring with the House of Bishops action on resolutions that change the canons on marriage and approve two marriage liturgies for trial use. Together the measures permit same-sex couples to be married in the Episcopal Church, beginning on the first Sunday of Advent of this year. The resolutions were adopted on votes by orders, with more than 80 percent of the clergy and lay deputies approving each one. Prayer preceded each vote. The two trial liturgies, which are in Resolution A054, include a gender-neutral version of the current marriage service in the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, as well as a version of a liturgy that was approved in 2012 for blessing same-sex unions that now also provides for vows of marriage. These rites do not refer to man and woman or husband and wife, but instead use these persons or the couple to refer to the two people being married. The 2012 rite, known as The Witnessing and 2015 PLEDGE UPDATE Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant, was amended to include improvements that were identified since it was permitted three years ago. The language of the existing marriage liturgy in the Prayer Book remains unchanged. In support of the resolution, the Rev. Susan Russell, deputy from Los Angeles and a longtime advocate for the rights of LGBT people in the Episcopal Church, said the two resolutions provide as wide a tent as possible for the historic diversity that characterizes the Episcopal Church guaranteeing access to marriage liturgies to all couples while protecting the conscience of clergy and bishops who dissent theologically. She called it an exemplary illustration of the hard, faithful work of a church refusing to let the perfect be the enemy of the good as it strives to become a more expansive and inclusive church. Taken from an article written by Melodie Woerman, Director of Communications of the Diocese of Kansas. You can get the complete article and others from General Convention here: Thanks to a large number of you, 43 to be exact, we have a total pledge amount of $72, for As a reminder our budget for 2015 is $109, The Vestry hopes to have income from investments of about $15, at the end of the year and so far we are on track to reach that amount. The Vestry also hopes to reach $9, from open plate contributions and that seems to be on track as well. This will leave us with a deficit of $12, for The Finance Committee and the Vestry have worked hard to shrink the budget for 2015 as much as possible and were able reduce it from 2014 by $6, So, if you haven t made a pledge to the 2015 budget yet, you still have time. Remember, every little bit helps us to keep the church open, staffed and available for all the wonderful outreach that we do in our community. You can pick up a pledge card at the back of the church or you can simply send me a note with your name, address, phone number and pledge amount. Thank You! Trent C. Hoskins-Kleinkopf Carillon Page 3

4 Speaking in medical terms, the Declaration of Independence was conceived in June of 1776 when the first draft was written by Congressman Richard Henry Lee of Virginia, while serving his term in the Second Continental Congress. During its gestation period, the powers that be of Great Britain admitted defeat after a war which cost them and the newly formed United States dearly both in the lives of many brave men and also, financially. The labor pains began in earnest when the Congress voted to approve the Resolution of Independence on July 2, The pains ensued for two days while the Honorable Congressmen debated and discussed the exact wording of what would finally become the official Declaration of Independence. A committee of five Congressmen was appointed to come up with such a document, but in the end it was Thomas Jefferson who was credited with doing the majority of the writing. As any woman who has given birth will tell you, two days is a long time to go through labor pains. However, we must remember that in those days, the people doing the debating and revising were all male. We can imagine there must have been much preening and grandstanding going on during those two days! Actually, when one thinks about it, it s amazing that it only took 2 days. John Adams had written his wife, Abigail, that the date, July 2 nd, would certainly be marked with songs and parades and all manner of celebrations in memory of this auspicious occasion by all generations to come. As it happened, John was only off by a couple of days. The fact that we have celebrated on the 4 th instead of the 2 nd is very likely due to a clerical error. Depending on which historian you re speaking to, the Declaration of Independence was officially approved by Congress on July 2 nd, when, incidentally, Jefferson, Adams, and Ben Franklin claimed they signed it, or it was July 4 th, when the others signed it, or on August 2 nd, when some claim that it was finally signed completely and approved. July 4 th seems to have been the favorite compromise. Isn t the study of History great fun? Shirley Vialpando MARY MAGDALENE THE MYSTERIOUS APOSTLE Perhaps no other Saint has inspired more confusion and speculation among the faithful and skeptics alike than Mary Magdalene, whose feast day we celebrate on July 22. As the leading female Apostle, she travelled with Jesus and was present at his crucifixion and resurrection. Mary Magdalene is mentioned in all four Gospels, more often than most of the Apostles. A common perception of Mary Magdalene is that she was a reformed prostitute. This is never specifically stated in the Bible, and most biblical scholars do not believe it. Nevertheless, the story has persisted through the centuries. It most likely arises from the references in both Mark and Luke to the seven demons that were cast out of her. These demons were probably illnesses of some type, commonly believed to be the work of the devil in those times, but construed over time as the seven deadly sins. Some have even put forth the theory that Mary Magdalene and Jesus were lovers, or even husband and wife and parents. In any event, she is revered as a devout Christian and an Apostle to the Apostles, tasked by Jesus to spread the word of his resurrection. Many believe she is also the author of one of several unpublished gospels. There are many questions remaining about Mary Magdalene that will never be answered, but as we remember her on her feast day, let us concentrate on our areas of agreement. She was a trusted friend and follower of Jesus and a leader among women in her time. Wendy Quinn

5 The Vestry meeting of June 25th began with discussion about replacing Nate Capehart who has resigned due to scheduling conflicts. He is traveling a lot and often not available for our Thursday meetings. If anyone would like to fill out his term please let Laura+ or one of the Vestry members know. It looks like we need a new Clerk to the Vestry as well. Antoinette has been working a great deal and does not have the time to continue. So if you would like to help out please let Laura+ or one of the Vestry members know that you are available. Cathy, as acting treasurer, reported on the May financial reports. The financials themselves were good and approved unanimously. Cathy pointed out several items from the Finance Committee meeting, including being over budget at the Rectory for maintenance and upkeep due to several improvements this year. These include a new refrigerator and making improvements to the grounds to reduce water usage. Tracey asked that we put a budget item in next year to cover these kinds of expenses. Cathy also reported that the open plate contribution is up over this time last year, investments are up for the year and we are under budget overall for this period. Cathy presented the checks which were reviewed and approved unanimously. Cathy stated June Vestry Meeting that an in house audit needs to be done and three people are being asked to participate. Laura+ will be on vacation from August 8th thru September 8th. Al Smith will preside on August 9th and 30th. George Keith will preside on August 16th and 23rd. We will have Holy Eucharist from reserve sacrament on September 9th. Tracey reported on buildings and grounds. Two new citrus trees were planted at the rectory to replace 3 that were removed due to age. The fountain has been cleaned and turned off for the summer. There was some discussion on removing the Texas Ranger bushes in the courtyard and replacing them with new ones or perhaps something more drought tolerant. Tracey will be cutting three on the northwest side of the church to see how they grow back. If it works well those in the courtyard may just be cut back severely and allowed to grow back. The toilets at the church and rectory will be retrofitted to reduce water usage. Cathy stated the septic system may need to be pumped as it hasn t been done in a long time. She would like this under consideration for the 2016 budget. Other items being considered are redoing the cushions on the benches in the church and buying a defibrillator for the church. Trent C. Hoskins-Kleinkopf PARISH PASTORAL NEEDS During our weekly bible study this morning, July 1st, as we were discussing the 1% verses the multitude and how it is often the multitude who care for the poor and the needy, a gentleman came to the office. We invited him in to see what he wanted. He had recently lost his job and although he had a cupboard stocked at the time he has run low and he and his wife are eating one meal per day. His wife is hungry and he was distraught about not being able to provide for her and she was distraught. So much worry, so much pain but he came to the right place. Our Rector offered to take him to the grocery store and buy them food and take him to the gas station and buy him gas. The man was in tears. He accepted our humble offering. I was moved by his sincerity and his open display of emotion. I was also reminded that this past Sunday was our collection for the Rectors Pastoral Needs fund. Many gave generously and because of this we were able to help this man and his wife. Thank you God for sending this man to us and thank you for the generous donations of our parishioners that made it possible to help him in his time of need. We are so Blessed. Trent C Hoskins-Kleinkopf

6 MAY FINANCIAL UPDATE Parishioners have asked to be kept better informed as to the finances of the church. In an attempt to do that The Finance Committee will be including each month in the Carillon the latest numbers that will give you an idea of how the church finances are doing over the course of the year. Budget for FY 2015 Expected Pledges $76, Expected Open Plate $9, Total Expected Income $85, Total Budgeted Expenditures $109, Expected Shortfall for FY15 -$23, Actuals through May Pledges Received $34, Open Plate Received $7, Interest from Growth Fund Current Total Income $41, Current Position for FY14 Projected Expenditures $109, Current Total Income $41, Current Position for FY14 $67, St. Barnabas Monthly Income FY 14 vs. FY 15

7 SISTER ACT One of Jesus best-known miracles, raising Lazarus from the dead, is a familiar story to Christians around the world. Less is known of his two sisters, Martha and Mary of Bethany, who are featured repeatedly in the Gospels of Luke and John. Their feast day is celebrated on July 29. Luke tells us of Jesus visit to the home of Martha and Mary. While Martha busied herself in the kitchen preparing for their guest, Mary chose to sit at Jesus feet and listen to what He was saying. When Martha complained that she was doing all the work, Our Lord replied, Mary has chosen what is better. The sisters appear twice in the Gospel of John. Both were present when their brother was raised from the dead. When Jesus arrived at their home, Martha chastised him for not coming sooner. Martha said more, but Mary wept more. In another incident, Mary anointed Jesus feet with nard, an expensive perfume. When Judas admonished her for not selling the nard and giving the money to the poor (Judas was actually keeping a good share of the poor box funds for himself), Jesus replied, "It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me. Martha is portrayed as the more aggressive sister, and her patronage includes cooks, homemakers and maids, among others. Mary was the quiet and contemplative one, appearing more spiritual in her relationship with Jesus, although both were devoted followers. Hopefully, on their feast day we can emulate both, by serving others and attending to our earthly duties while honoring Our Lord and two of His ardent admirers. Wendy Quinn July Altar Schedule July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 Kathleen K Trent HK Trent HK Trent HK July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 July Coffee Hour Schedule Joann M & Hilda McF Wendy Q & Jan J Brad & AnnMarie T Trent & Cal HK July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 July Lector s Schedule Lyle B & Jan N Joe D & Joanne McL Cal HK & Martha M Wendy Q & Chuck B

8 JULY SUNDAY HOLY 9:30AM FOOD BANK July NOON Volunteers are always needed so come early to help with food distribution! St. Barnabas Carillon Editing and Design: Trent Hoskins-Kleinkopf stbarnabasborrego@gmail.com (760) Production: Carol Sargent & Trent Hoskins-Kleinkopf Newsletter Committee: Trent Hoskins-Kleinkopf, Wendy Quinn & Shirley Vialpando Editor Emeritus: Lynnis Wilderson St. Barnabas Episcopal Church 2680 Country Club Road P.O. Box 691 Borrego Springs, CA Church office: Website: