The Disciple. January 2017

Transcription

1 The Disciple A Monthly Publication of St. Jude's Church "The purpose of St. Jude's Church is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by proclaiming through words, actions and love the Good News of God in Christ; to provide for spiritual growth and to minister, with love, to the needs of this congregation and to all people. 907 Wichman Street Walterboro, S.C The Rev. Bob Horowitz, Rector stjudes@lowcountry.com online: (843) January 2017 You know the story of the Three Wise Men of the East and how they traveled a long distance to offer their gifts at the manger in Bethlehem. Henry Van Dyke wrote a little book called The Story of the Other Wise Man with a wonderful message. The other wise man s name was Artaban. He and three of his friends, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar had studied the stars and searched the Hebrew Scriptures and computed that the time for the great prophecy of the Jewish Messiah King was about to take place. Artaban sold his house and all his possessions to buy three precious jewels a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl to bring to the King as a tribute. Artaban set out the next morning to travel the long distance and meet up with his friends, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar at the edge of the desert. As he rode through an olive grove, he saw the dark form of a Hebrew man lying on the ground. Artaban got down to take a closer look, figured the man was close to death and beyond help, and went to continue his journey, but the stranger s bony hand reached up and held tight to the bottom of his robe. Artaban felt resentment rise up within him. If he stayed to help the dying man, he would miss the appointed meeting place and his friends would head into the desert without him, thinking he had decided not to pursue the quest. But, if he left, the man would surely die. He prayed for guidance and then for several hours nursed the man back to health and left him his food and water. In return, the Hebrew man raised his hand and blessed him. Artaban rode hard to meet his friends but when he arrived at the meeting place he found that it was too late, they had already left. With no food or water, he had no choice but to return to his hometown, sell one of his precious stones for provisions and try to catch up with his friends in the desert. When he finally arrived in Bethlehem, Artaban came across a peasant woman in her home. She told him that his friends had already come and paid tribute. And then Joseph, Mary and the newborn baby, left secretly during the night. Rumor had it, they had fled to Egypt. She gladly prepared a simple but generous meal for Artaban and as the woman s baby slept nearby, he felt the peace that filled her home. Suddenly, there was confusion in the streets. People running and yelling that Herod s soldiers were killing all their children. The young mother went pale, clutched her child, and hid in a corner of the room while Artaban stood in the doorway. Herod s soldiers came to the house with blood on their hands and swords. Artaban stood calmly in the doorway and said to the captain, I m all alone in this place, and I am waiting to give this precious ruby jewel to the prudent captain who will leave me in peace. The captain grabbed the beautiful jewel and ordered his soldiers to move on. Artaban had now spent two of his precious gifts on man that were meant for the King and wondered Will I ever be worthy to see the face of the King? Weeping quietly for joy in the shadow behind him, the woman gently said, Because you have saved the life of my child, may the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make his face to shine upon you, may the Lord lift up his countenance to you and give you peace. Artaban set out again and searched among the teeming masses of people in Egypt fo r t h e m a n f r o m Nazareth, his wife and their baby King. He sought out the counsel of a wise Hebrew rabbi who read from the ancient scrolls that foretold the sufferings of the promised Messiah despised and rejected by men, a man acquainted with sorrow and grief. The rabbi told Artaban that he would find the Messiah-King of Israel among the lowly and poor. For thirty-three years he remained faithful to his quest. He went where there was famine and people were hungry. He went to plaguestricken cities where people were sick. Artaban did not find the Messiah-King but he did feed the hungry, tend the sick, and visit the lonely. He grew old, worn, and weary and it seemed at times that he had forgotten his

2 quest. He made the journey one last time to Jerusalem during the Passover feast. He found a group of pilgrims and asked them what all the excitement was about. They said, Haven t you heard? We are going to a place called Golgotha. Someone named Jesus of Nazareth, who has done many wonderful works and was well loved by the people is to be crucified. The priests said he must die because he claimed to be the Son of God. Pontius Pilate sent him to the cross because he said he was King of the Jews. Artaban felt a twinge of despair in his tired heart. The King had come but had been denied and was about to perish. Could he be the same one who had come thirtythree years earlier when the star appeared in heaven? As he followed the crowd a Roman soldier dragged a young woman through the street. The woman tore herself away from the soldier and fell at Artaban s feet and begged him to help her. She was about to be sold into slavery to repay a debt owed by her family a fate worse than death. He took his last jewel a pearl of great price out of his coat and gave it to the girl. And told her, This is your ransom, the last of my treasures which I had kept for the King. While he spoke, the sky darkened and the earth trembled and a heavy stone fell from a building and struck him on the side of the head. The young woman bent over him and heard him say to someone she didn t see, Not so my Lord, when did I see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and gave you a drink? Or a stranger and took you in? Or naked and clothed you? Or in prison and visited you? Thirty- three years I have looked for you but I have not seen your face or paid tribute to you, my King. Artaban heard the voice of the King say to him: Truly, I say unto you, inasmuch as you have done these things unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me. A calm radiance of wonder and joy lit upon Artaban s face. His journey was ended.his treasures were accepted. The Other Wise Man had found the King. Blessings, Fr. Bob+ MUSIC Adult Choir rehearsals resume on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 from 6:00-7:00PM in music room. Join us! Children s Choir will resume on Sundays from 9:15-9:35PM beginning January 8, Age range is 4 years through fifth grade. Thank You Our adult singers committed to freely sharing their voices, talents, and time. We were fortunate to have several new singers join our ranks this fall. In addition to singing at 10:30AM Sunday Eucharists, most participated in The Massing of The Colors, The Colleton Singers Christmas Concert, Lessons and Carols, and Christmas services. Ensembles I hope to form small ensembles from musicians in our parish or friends of our parish. Ensembles are wonderful for many reasons: * Focusing on specific genres of of music *Offering a varied array of music *Fellowship *Growth in musicianship *Flexible scheduling of rehearsals A treble ensemble (soprano, soprano, alto) or men s ensemble would focus on specific styles of interest to the group. A folk ensemble would include singers and a variety of instruments. For several years we had an intergenerational bell choir. Even if you do not read music, you could be a ringer! This was a fun activity for several families! 2

3 Basic Musicianship Bob Everett and I will offer basic musicianship training with an emphasis on review choral and music terms and practices. Happy New Year A new year brings new ideas and energy to me, I hope that some of you will consider participation in our Adult and Children s Choirs and also in one or two ensembles! This was a year of challenges and blessings for our family. In the end, the blessings have been much more abundant than the challenges! Peace, David Hymn 119: As With Gladness Men of Old 1. As with gladness men of old did the guiding star behold, as with joy they hailed its light, leading onward, beaming bright; so, most gracious Lord, may we evermore your splendor see. 2 As with joyful steps they sped to that lowly manger bed, there to bend the knee before Christ, whom heaven and earth adore; so may we with willing feet ever seek your mercy seat. 3 As they offered gifts most rare at that manger plain and bare, so may we with holy joy, pure and free from sin s alloy, all our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to you, our heavenly King. 4 Holy Jesus, every day keep us in the narrow way, and when mortal things are past, bring our ransomed lives at last where they need no star to guide, where no clouds your glory hide. 5 In that glorious city bright none shall need created light; you its light, its joy, its crown, you its sun which goes not down; there forever may we sing alleluias to our King. The Victorian age author of the text was W. Chatterton Dix was known as a collector of folk tales and legends of England and also a gifted poet and writer of hymns. This hymn is a prayer for God's presence in our lives. The Magi showed faith in God and eagerness, as well as sacrifice, in their journey to see the Christ-child. So may we live as though we really believe and eagerly look forward to the day when we shall one day see Him. In the third stanza, the gifts of the Magi are not even named. The Magi took the trouble to bring gifts most rare on a long journey. So may we All our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to Thee, our heavenly King. This pilgrimage is not easy, so we sing, Holy Jesus, every day keep us in the narrow way, remembering that Jesus said, For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few (Matthew 7:14, ESV). 3

4 NOVEMBER VESTRY NOTES November 14, 2016 Treasurer s Report: Actual Budget Actual Budget Income Open Plate 1, , , , Pledge 11, , , , Other , , Bob Smith presented the Treasurer s report. He reported that as far as Income, Pledges are under budget by $16,700 for the year to date. As far as Expenses, Fund 1450 is over budget by $1500 year to date and Fund 1470 Utilities is under budget for the month and year to date. Stewardship Report: Bob Smith stated that 32 pledges had been received for a total of $119,316. This time last year we had received 45 pledges. He stated that an additional $60,000 was needed to get to where we are operating on. He reported that letters had been sent members listed in the Parish Handbook. Father Bob stated that this was very concerning. Bob Smith stated that 90% of the budget is used for salaries and overhead. The Vestry would look at the situation next month and see what can be done. Bob Smith also reported that the Finance Committee had reviewed a draft of the Endowment Fund. One section needed reworking. A report will be given to the Vestry in January. Bob Smith reported that the Memorial Garden Committee had met and went through 34 survey responses regarding a Memorial Garden. The Committee would meet again to look at plans and report to the Vestry for approval. Outreach: Scott reported that there was a very good response to Empty Bowls fund raiser. cancellation. Evangelism: Father Bob reported for Byron Lee, that the Massing of the Colors program held on November 10, 2016 went very well. Approximately 90 people were in attendance a lot of different branches of the military. Youth: Julia Waddell reported that the youth will also be attending the Chili Pepper Youth Conference in January. DCW: Margie Williams reported that the St. Jude s Church Woman had put together 17 Christmas Boxes as a part of Operation Christmas Child and she had delivered them to Jacksonboro. PARISH ANNUAL MEETING The Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Sunday, January 22 nd, at 9:15AM service with a full breakfast. All committees are asked to have their reports in the office no later than Thursday, January 5 th. 2 Erin Nichols 7 Julia Causey 3 Debbie Jones 9 Justin Gravano 5 Charles Lucas 25 Andy Harrison 6 Charles Bridges 28 Steve Cinader Thanks to the DCW committee for putting on a splendid evening for the Annual Adult Christmas Party, and Fr. Bob and Stephanie for hosting at the Rectory....To David and the Choirs for magnificent music throughout Advent and Christmas....To all those who do diligently buy groceries, make pantry bags, and give out the food to the many who frequent the Food Pantry. As well as, hearty thanks to those who have made financial contributions or given food to the pantry....everyone who helped with breakfast in December: Marilyn Peters, Pattie & Tom Lohr, Diane & Dave Mathews, Ben & Susan Harrison, Marianne Holmes, Peter Martin, Paul & Fran Pye, Marvin Jones....Those who volunteered to cook meals for the Youth Group: Gilda Barnwell, and Marianne & Don Holmes. 4

5 Y O U T H VOLUNTEERS S U P P E R BIBLE STUDY GROUPS (If your group is not listed please call the church office ) Women s Bible Study - The Monday night Women's Bible Study meets from 6-7:30PM. The group will be studying Seamless. Please contact Debbie Jones, The following parishioners have volunteered to prepare supper for the Youth group on Wednesday nights during the month of January 4 Harper & J P Downey Charlotte Valentine Laura Reasonover Martie & Erwin Hooker If you would like to volunteer to prepare a meal for the Youth group please contact Marianne SUNDAY BREAKFAST at ST. JUDE S Would like to thank everyone in advance for taking time to help out with this ministry. Also remind them to pick up key for building sometime during the week before they need it. THANKS, Dana JANUARY 8 th Marilyn Peters Patti & Tom Lohr Diane & Dave Mathews 15 th Ben & Susan Harrison Marianne Holmes 22 nd ANNUAL MEETING Dana Cheney Martie & Erwin Hooker David Martin 29 th Paul & Fran Pye Marvin Jones ST. JUDE'S VETERANS FELLOWSHIP Thursday, January 19 6:30PM in Skardon Hall. Please RSVP: th Thursday Female Veterans Fellowship Thursday, January 26, at 7:30PM Men's Group February 2, 2017, 6:30pm USC/Salkehatchie Basketball Team Supper at the USC/Salk Gym Contact Bob Smith if you would like to cook, come or help ( ). 5

6 URGENT NEED The St. Jude s Food Pantry has been a very successful Outreach Ministry for our church for a number of years. This January, Doug Wright will be retiring his service to the Pantry, leaving a huge void. First, thank you Doug for your time and talents all of these years. Second, I am asking people that have a little extra time on their hands to prayerfully consider filling one or both Thursdays a month. Please let me or Lisa, in the office know if you can help. Thank you and may God Bless you, Gale Doggette The DOK meets on the first Sunday of each month at 9AM in the Vestry Room in Skardon Hall. The only requirement for membership is a commitment to prayer and serving our Lord! If you are interested in learning more about DOK, a study/training for new members is currently underway. If you have an interest and would like to begin the discernment process please join us at the January meeting which will be on Sunday, January 8, due to holiday. For more information, or contact Ann Walters (843) , or Marianne Holmes, (843) New Year s Day 1 Open Plate offering goes to Rector s Disc. Fund 5 Deadline for reports for Annual Meeting 7 Vestry Retreat at Rectory, 9-12 PM 8 Daughters of the King, 9 AM 8 First Sunday After Epiphany Prayer Walk and Covered Dish after 10:30AM Service. 15 Pantry Sunday Holy Land Trip informational meeting and lunch following the 10:30 service. 19 St. Jude's Veterans Fellowship, 6:30pm in Skardon 22 Parish Annual Meeting, 9:15 AM in Skardon. Full breakfast served. 20 Deadline for submissions for February Disciple Chillipepper Youth Conference, Pigeon Forge 22 PowerPoint presentation to provide information about a potential affiliation with the ACNA, 9:00AM 24 PowerPoint presentation to provide informatio n about a potential affiliation with the ACNA, 7:00PM 26 4 th Thursday Female Veterans Fellowship, 7:30PM...Jimmy Thomas PARISH FAMILIES MINISTERED TO THIS MONTH.. We try to have an ongoing Food/Flower/Card/Soup Ministry and we feel bad when we do not know or find out l ate about a need in our church family. Please be certain to contact the church office and let us know of a need in our parish family whether it s a meal or a visit from the Rector. Are you interested in finding out more about the 2017 Holy Land Trip led by Fr. Bob? Come and have lunch following the 10:30 service on Sunday, January 15th or Sunday, February 12th in Skardon Hall. Fr. Bob will give a presentation about the trip and answer your questions. The trip is not limited to members of St. Jude's - if you know someone who is interested invite them to come. 6

7 Dear Friends in Christ, The Diocese of South Carolina will hold its Annual Convention on March 10-11, During the Convention lay and clergy delegates from all the Diocesan churches will cast votes on whether or not the Diocese of South Carolina will affiliate with the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA). I have set aside three dates to present to you a PowerPoint presentation to provide information about a potential affiliation with the ACNA, answer any questions you might have, and listen to your concerns. The dates are: Sunday, January 9:00 a.m. (This will be part of my report at the St. Jude's Annual Meeting in Skardon Hall) Tuesday January 7:00 p.m. in Skardon Hall Thursday February 7:00 p.m. in Skardon Hall I hope that you will be able to attend one of these meetings. Faithfully, Bob+ The 226th Convention of the Diocese of South Carolina will be held March 10-11, 2017 at St. Paul s Church, Summerville, SC. FEARLESS GENEROSITY 2017 Stewardship Campaign Usually we look forward to the new year, but from the perspective of our parish finances, we enter 2017 with severe budgetary challenges. To date, as a result of our stewardship campaign, we have received 50 pledges totaling $162, We welcome 7 new pledging members and are most grateful to the 19 parishioners who elected to increase their pledges for While we greatly appreciate all the commitments that have been made, we are being forced to develop a budget with approximately $18,000 less pledge income; a significant blow to already stretched church finances. To this end, parish programs and contracted services provided will be adversely affected. We currently operate with a minimal church staff who are dedicated to the work of our parish as well as numerous parishioner volunteers who conduct or support our various programs and ministries. What is the answer? Our little church needs to grow in a community that has minimal growth. What can we do in the meantime? To those who pledge increase it if you have not already; and above all, honor your pledge. To those who currently don't pledge, consider and make a pledge commitment. Be or become involved! There are too many good things taking place in our parish family for us to have these struggles. 7

8 St. Jude s Church The Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina St. Jude's has worship services Sunday at 8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist 9:30 a.m. Christian Education 10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist Wednesdays at 12 noon Holy Eucharist 5:30 p.m. Youth Group St. Jude's Church 907 Wichman Street Walterboro, South Carolina Return Service Requested The Disciple is published monthly by St. Jude's Church 907 Wichman Street Walterboro, SC and can be found online at Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9AM-2PM The Lord Jesus Christ, Head of the Church The Rt. Rev. Mark Lawrence, Bishop The Rev. Bob Horowitz, Rector David Martin, Organist/Choirmaster Bob Smith, Parish Treasurer Lisa Marsh, Parish Administrator Vestry Members Margie Williams, Senior Warden 16 Jack Jackson, Junior Warden 18 Paul Pye, Fellowship 16 Tracy Johnston, Pastoral Care 16 Scott Harvin, Outreach 16 Gilda Barnwell, DCW 17 Anthony Herndon, Finance & Stewardship 17 Charlotte Valentine, Christian Education 17 Byron Lee, Evangelism 17 Marvin Jones, Memorial 18 Kathie Smith, Fellowship 18 Julia Waddell, Youth 18 SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 First Sunday After Epiphany Prayer Walk and Covered Dish after 10:30AM Service. 8