Getting to Know the Ayres Family ~ by Dave Rubin

Transcription

1 Getting to Know the Ayres Family ~ by Dave Rubin In previous issues, we ve highlighted new Grace families and established Grace families. This time, let s learn about a Grace family that is both established and new. The Ayres Family The Ayres family has dwelt in Marion County for many years. It has included politicians, physicians, attorneys, teachers, administrators, and 5 generations of Grace Episcopal Church members. Willard Ayres served in the State Legislature and as Mayor of Ocala; and long-time Grace members will remember the little old lady in tennis shoes, Gladys McGraw, Carolyn s grandmother. She was known for walking all over town, even to church, dressed up nicely, wearing a hat, carrying her purse, shod in tennis shoes. Carolyn Ayres is a long-time Grace parishioner. She currently is a member of Vestry and chairs the Flower Guild. She, like many of our Grace family, is employed by the School Board and holds the title of Franchise Manager for the Marion County Virtual School. Should you wish to contribute for altar flowers, either as a memorial or in thanksgiving: she s the person to contact. Her daughter, Andrea, was married at Grace; her two sons, Stephen and Ben Jr. are graduates of the Grace Day School. Abby, Carolyn, Emily Recently, Carolyn s son Stephen and his family: wife Liana, daughter Emily, and daughter Abby have become regular attendees here at Grace. Stephen Liana & Stephen was born in Fayetteville, NC, but grew up in Ocala. He was Baptized, Confirmed, and married at Grace and served here as an Acolyte. After finishing college, Stephen served as an Usher and, during the time that Fr. Bob Smith was Rector, got a Call and was certified by the Diocese to be Youth Minister at Grace. Stephen is the Assistant Principal of Instruction at Dunnellon High School. Liana was born in Rockland County, NY. She has taught English and Writing at Belleview Middle School for over 15 years. Emily is 13 years old and attends Belleview Middle School. Like her father and grandfather before her, she is an Acolyte at Grace. She plays the clarinet and loves mathematics. Her middle name is Grace, named for the church. Ten year old Abby attends Dunnellon Elementary School. Like her sister, she is a third-generation Acolyte at Grace. She enjoys reading and playing softball. The Ayres family has one pet: a 4 year old yellow Lab named June and jokingly referred to as their third daughter. When not busy with their Education responsibilities, Stephen and Liana enjoy spending time with their girls and traveling, especially to North Carolina and Disneyworld. Quite some time ago, Stephen and his family left Grace. They attended Meadowbrook nondenominational church, Ocala West United Methodist Church, and others. But the family has deep roots in Grace and felt comfortable with the Episcopal liturgy. Carolyn would encourage them to visit Grace; they d attend the yearly Instructed Eucharist; the girls would ask to please go back to Grace and now they are back in their church home and we are happy to have them. Now that we know Stephen and his family better, let s be sure to greet them Sunday mornings and let them know that they re welcomed into our Grace family!

2 Fear and Hope I'm writing this as the airwaves and internet are filled with images of the horrific and cowardly bombings in Boston. Innocent athletes along with their families who looked forward to this day of success, only to have it smashed by hate-filled individuals. And despite how much we hate to think about it, these terrible events are increasingly commonplace. Almost every week now seems to have it's own senseless crime against unsuspecting people going about an otherwise normal life. Each attack makes us less. Robbing us a little more of our security, safety, and human decency. Fear creeps in as we wonder if there is any place left where we can be free from those who wish us harm. We think, "maybe the only place left to be safe is locked behind our front door...". 1 st John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment." Fear is an emotional response to events around us, but it can't become our decision for life. We, as Christians, are people of hope. We know bad things happen. Sin infects and pollutes everyone. But when we allow fear to remain beyond the initial stages of an event, we are giving it more power than it's due. Christ has conquered everything we fear. There is nothing that can happen here to us that he hasn't already solved for all eternity. Yes, being a little afraid can help you learn to make common sense choices, however, fear as a life style is not what it means to be a Christian. So, as these horrible horrible events continue to occur - and they will - do not give fear a foothold in your life. Your God has conquered all that could hurt you and those you love. He is a strong tower whom you and I can run to and know that we are safe. Hope and love in Christ can not be defeated. Amen! Fr. Jonathan+ Dearly Beloved, I want to thank all of you for the prayer support you have given me over the past month. I believe that God has used it to keep me glued together. I seem to have survived and stayed at least partially functional. I am not able drive now, but I am able to ride, and if someone would like to have some time with me for prayer and counsel, give me a call and we will get together. I am not nearly as bad off as my doctors seem to think. I can still walk comfortably, but they won't let me do it without a walker. If there is something that I can do for you, let me know, and with God's help, we will get it done. God's love and mine, Father Al+ Three Pew Ministry ~ by Deacon Mike Anderson To put it simply the Three Pew Ministry is like a family who watches out for each other. All members of the church are involved as you are a pew minister for the pew in front of you, the pew behind you, and the pew in which you sit. (Don t worry if you move around a lot, you just get to watch out for more people). Who better to notice when someone does not show up for a period of time? Who better to welcome a visitor and help them through the service than you and the people you sit with regularly? We want to make sure that everyone feels welcomed, feels loved, feels like they belong, and that they know we care about them. Should you notice someone missing for a while, or see someone we might need to reach out to, direct it to one of the Section Ministers listed below: Lila and Clark McKean Don and Mary Hires Drick and Elaine Heitman Terry and Carol Walker Frank and Jackie Blasucci Susie Anderson, or Deacon Mike Anderson or Deacon Mary Delancey

3 Hosanna! All Glory, Laud and Honor! Preparation for Palm Sunday begins days before as Ann Anderson teaches the art of folding palm crosses. We gathered in the Community Garden as Deacon Mike begins the Liturgy of the Palms with the Gospel, Luke 19: The congregation follows the procession to the church accompanied by Liturgical Dancers and Musicians. The Procession marches singing the praises to the Lord with These are the Days of Elijah... Sing for Joy, and All Glory, Laud and Honor down Broadway Street. Musicians playing guitar, violin and drums add to our raised voices of praise and joy ending a beautiful service with Crown Him with Many Crowns We Welcome the Newly Baptized! Samantha Grace Johnson Daughter of Scott & Alex Johnson, sister of Angela, Godparents Esther & Matt Graham & Karen Mottl. Six baptisms took place at Grace Episcopal Church Easter, March 31, 2013 Jessica Erin Johnson With sponsor Alex Johnson Addison Mikaela Johnson Daughter of Jessica Johnson Godparents Justin & Carla Cavalier (not pictured). Savannah Taylor Jenkins Daughter of Kate Jenkins Godparents Ryan & Andy Gray, Annie & Trevor Baggs Mary Frances Dixon With her sponsor, Lisa Molinski (left). Isaiah Tyric Louis Son of Michelle Nicolas

4 He Is Risen! The Lord Is Risen Indeed! Alleluia! Easter is celebrated at three Services. Susan Anderson, usher Kendall Dean Places a Mite Box into the model of Grace Church Josh Head & Robert Langen, trumpeters Abby Ayres, acolyte Decorating the Flower Cross Nancy Dunleavy Virginia & Emme Luka (granddaughters of Tommy & Lynda Peek) James Rubin Marilyn & Pat Brady Conn & Nancy Whetstone

5 The Easter Celebration Continued with Hot Cross Buns in the Garden. Ben & Pamela Daniel Ana & Mack Dunwoody, Melissa & Bill Dunwoody, Alex & William Dunwoody Martha Anne Williamson, Eleanor Simons, Nancy Dunleavy & Margo Keele Rev. Kathleen Eickwort Liz & Bern Sponenbura, Jeremiah & Heather Hetzel Tristan Van Voorhis & June Hoddinott Mary Johnson Joseph & Molly Hetzel & Louise Rolle Maurica French Todd & Lori Craig Drick & Elaine Sophia, River & Josh Head & Barbara Whitney-Cohen Bailey & Porter Craig Heitman

6 Grace Men s Fellowship Group ~ by Mike Anderson, Deacon Chas Johnson, Terry Walker, Roy Rolle, Dave Rubin Deacon Mike Anderson, Don Hires, Nate Gilman. We meet the first and third Tuesdays of every month at 7am, yes, seven in the morning, at Scrambles Restaurant for fellowship and Bible study; and have been doing so for almost two years. I consider myself very blessed to be the so called leader of this great group of guys (or at least, they let me think that I am the leader). While we do not follow any conventional style or techniques of known Bible study plans, we do get quite a bit of the Word studied. We have studied Ephesians, segued into the Armor of God as seen by Paul and how it pertains to life today, risked the question, can you lose your salvation, and have probably solved more of the world s problems than any other group in existence. As you can tell by my light-hearted writing, we do have a lot of fun, enjoy each other, and still manage to learn. I must repeat that I am blessed to share fellowship with these guys, and hope that some of you will consider coming to see what we are all about and maybe join in. I was hungry and you gave me food.. ~ by Janie Rubin This is just a piece of that chapter in Matthew referred to as The Judgment of the Nations. This particular chapter is well known to many of us, even those who may not be regular readers of Scripture. Have another look at it today, Matthew 25: It s very simple in instructing us to look after those in need. Grace Episcopal Church provides support to many local as well as international organizations where we might find who Jesus refers to as the least of these my brothers. Close to home are two charities who we give to each second Sunday during our breakfasts, Interfaith Emergency Services and the Ocala Marion County Domestic Violence Shelter. However, it isn t necessary to wait until a congregation breakfast. Both of these community outreach organizations need our help all of the time. And now with summer approaching, their need becomes greater, as their donations seem to shrink. Those families with school aged children, for example, may receive assistance from their child s school with free lunches or backpacks filled with weekend food supplies. We can help by bringing in our donations anytime. On Sundays donations may still be left in the Parish House. During the week, such offerings may be taken to the church office during business hours. Both Interfaith and the Domestic Violence Shelter need canned and packaged non-perishable foods, personal hygiene items, paper and cleaning products. So, at your next shopping trip, go to the Buy One Get One Free table, look for sales, and cut out coupons. Whatever your favorite store has on sale today, these people need. Not sure what to get? What do you like? Chances are, other families in Ocala like the same things. Imagine Yourself Debt Free! ~ by Laurel Anderson Give yourself the gift of Financial Peace this year! I took Financial Peace University 3 years ago, and it has helped me to have a plan for spending, living debt free, and saving for the future. FPU has helped me to be a better steward of my finances. I would encourage anyone who wants more control of their finances to take the class. It was such a blessing in my life! Look for a new course forming soon. Blessings, Laurel Let s Sign Up for Summer Camp! A Fun Place A Safe Place A Holy Place A Kids Place Camp Wingmann Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida A Fun Place for Kids to Come to Know and Grow in Christ! Or get a brochure in the church office. For kids entering grades 3 through 12.

7 Children s Ministry Makes Plans for the Summer ~ by Xiomara Telesford I am excited about this summer and all the things we will be doing at Children s Church. From June 9 th until August 18 th we will be having Children s Church titled as Ants with a Powerful Purpose. Ants work hard all summer to get ready for the winter. Our children at Grace Episcopal Church will be working all summer to learn the Word while playing games, making crafts and learning in new ways about Jesus. Upon completion of this summer program held every Sunday during the 9:45 service, the children will learn that they have a powerful purpose. Every Sunday I will give the children a take home memory verse and if by the following week they learn it, they will receive a prize. We will also make two trips to the community. The scheduled times and details of these trips will be announced as the time approaches. Your children will love to be in church every Sunday this summer. They will talk about what they learned and how much fun they had during Children s Church and they will be eager for the following summer to arrive so they can have fun again. The Word says, Let the children come to me, for of theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Lise Kent teaching the children the Resurrection story on Easter. Xiomara Telesford directing the New Life Children s Choir. Porter Craig, Parker Hoeft, Ryan Ashley, Bailey Craig, Walker Harrell, Alexis Ashley, Molly Hetzel, Isaiah Louis, Caleb Garri, Angela Johnson, Grace Garri & Kaitlin Harries Daniel Hart & Joseph Hetzel at the Lego table in the nursery. ECW News ~ by Joan Canzoneri Did you know that all women in the Episcopal Church are members of the Episcopal Church Women? And all women are welcome at all ECW meetings and activities. Our next activity is the annual May Garden Party, May 16 th, 12 noon, at the home of Ann Anderson, East Highway 25, Ocklawaha. This is a covered dish luncheon, so bring a favorite salad, main dish or dessert to share. Please R.S.V.P. to Ann at The ECW at Grace also sponsors the annual Christmas Bazaar held every November. We are always looking for Twice Loved Treasures, books, antiques, collectables and vintage, retro or new jewelry. Items may be brought to the church office during business hours and placed in our storage room. It is never too soon to begin cleaning cupboards, attics and shelves for items that can be shared with others. The proceeds from our bazaars are used to meet some of the needs of Grace Episcopal Church, our VPK Program and our Outreach Programs. We will be sending some of last year s proceeds to: Michelle-O-Gram Boys & Girls Club of Marion County Pace Center for Girls Ocala Marion Domestic Violence Shelter Kimberly Center Baby Blankets and More! ~ by Martha Jane Singeltary Earlier this year members of the Prayer Shawl Ministry noticed several expectant mothers in the congregation and decided to make baby blankets to welcome the newborns to their Grace family. Little did we realize that we would need so many, and for a while the needles were really flying! To date we have given out seven blankets and just hope that no one has been overlooked. Please let us know if we have missed anyone. Recently, a recipient of a prayer shawl was so delighted with the one she received that she asked if she might buy one for a friend. Prayer shawls and lap robes are not for sale, but are gladly given to anyone who needs their comfort. They are not only for those in hospitals or nursing homes, but also those who are homebound or restricted to a wheelchair or are simply lonely, sad or in need of comfort in any way. If you have a request for one, please contact the church office or call Martha Jane Singeltary at The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the first Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. in Grace Hall and welcomes anyone who likes to knit or crochet. Yarn and patterns are provided.

8 The Episcopal Churchwomen Celebrate Grace s Greatest Generation With the Annual Birthday Party The ECW along with many members of the congregation, families and friends gathered in the Parish House March 9 th, to honor our parishioners age 80+ with a luncheon buffet. Bob Bealle, Lewis Kerti, Joan Adams Rosie & George Roberts Ann Anderson, Margo Keele, Fr. Jonathan & Lucy Quinones Lynda Peek, Emme Luka, Ginger McCutcheon, Maegen & Virginia Luka. Four Generations! Leslie Douglas shares a story with Bobby Berryman. Helen Hazel receives a corsage from Elaine Sarbeck. Nadya Brandon & Martha Jane Singeltary Mary Baines, Pat Harris & Annette Holland serve ECW s signature cakes to our honored guests. Suzanne Bryant

9 VPK News! ~ by Shirley Webb Grace VPK s 3rd year is quickly coming to an end! Our Bootin Out Ceremony is set for Wednesday, May 22 at 5:30 in the Parish House. Come see the Buckaroos of our PreK Class of graduate! This has been such a wonderful year, thanks in large part to the support of the generous, caring members of Grace Episcopal Church. Thank you for providing us with our needs (donated supplies and snacks) AND our wants (items from our wish list, like gift cards and even a computer)! Enrollment for Fall has been quite successful already with only 5 openings remaining! We ask that you continue to pray for Grace Episcopal VPK s little lambs. The use of computers as a center for our little VPKers was made possible by the generous gift of a Grace Episcopal Church family! The children and their teachers say, Thank You! Just before Spring Break, the VPK held their annual egg hunt and Easter Hat parade! The children often enjoy meeting new friends and having live animal visitors. This time rabbits came to play in March. (I wonder if this is the March Hare?) If it s June - Think Socks ~ by Eleanor Simons During the month of June, Grace Episcopal Church will be collecting socks for the boys and girls at El Hogar. There are 75 boys and 25 girls at the elementary school, 90 boys at the technical school and 60 boys at the farm. There are 6 girls at the new girls school they are building. So that is a lot of feet to cover. The thing about socks is that in a hot country in the summer they have to be changed every day for kids that run and sweat and play. Remember that mustard seed? We are a small church, but we can do big things. Why socks?, you might ask. Well, socks are a small item of clothing, but an important part. They keep feet protected and dry, preventing blisters and foot problems. El Hogar gets many donations from individuals but socks and underwear are low on the list. So this June we will be collecting socks that will be shipped to El Hogar for the boys and girls that live there. Many of us put on our socks everyday and don t give them much thought. We take them for granted. They are a small but important part of life. They add protection and comfort. We at Grace Church are going to provide that for the children at El Hogar. Bring socks to the church office or put them in the container at the front of the Parish House on your way to church. Angels Needed! ~ by Ruth Ray The new Forward Day by Day books are here, so get yours while you can! But we need some angels to step up and help us cover the cost. Now that our congregation is growing, we will need to get more. It is a good thing for us all to be reading something together each day. For several years, various members of the congregation from both Services have covered the cost of a year s subscription. We need more help. If you can spare even a dollar or two, use one of the envelopes found in the pew rack, mark it Forward Day by Day and place it in the offering plate. Or, you may drop off your contribution in the church office during regular business hours. Checks may be made out to Grace Episcopal Church, with Forward in the memo. God will richly bless you for sharing.

10 Celebration Sunday Support for the Sao Paulo Mercy Ministries The 2 nd Sunday of Easter, sometimes known as Holy Humor Sunday, Low Sunday or Celebration Sunday reminds us that God pulled the ultimate practical joke on Satan. Jesus did not stay dead. The tomb was empty. Jesus rose. He is risen! And so on this day, the 9:45 service included some jokes, laughs and good fun. Jesus died for us! We are free! Rejoice and Praise Him. On April 7 th, The Reverend Stephen and Mary Dass visited the Grace congregation to share with us their missionary ministry in the red light district of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Christian missionaries testify to the Lord s loving presence among the homeless and hopeless children and adults of the area. Fr. Dass s message is that prayer is the most powerful way to start change in the lives of these desperate people whom society has deemed as impossible to save. He asks for our prayers and support in this effort. Monetary support may also be made to this ministry through offerings directed to the DCF Missionary Outreach, Diocese of Central Florida, 1017 E. Robinson St., Orlando, FL Include a note stating for whom this gift of support is designated. See your company s ad here! Business card ads may be placed for the nominal rate of $5.00 per issue of Grace To You every two months. Larger ads are $12.50 per 1/4 page and $25.00 per half page.

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12 Grace Episcopal Church Annual Parish Picnic Silver River State Park ~ April 21 st The Chefs Mike Anderson, Dave Rubin, Pat Brady & Sean Langen. Todd Craig, Jr. Warden, proves that a watched pot will indeed boil. Fr. Jonathan, Alia, Micah, Maurica French & Joan Stark. Working up an appetite with a fast paced game of tag. Ruth & Morgan Kraan & Priscilla Belle, Marilyn Corsiglia & Mary Delancey. Rebecca Anderson and her grandmothers, Joyce Finger & Ann Anderson. Ginny & Ruth Ray, Dotty Shimmin. Lise Kent adds more ears of corn to the pot. Sunday Worship ~ 7:30 A.M., Rite 1; 8:45 A.M., Sunday School; 9:45 A.M., Rite 2 Wednesday ~ 12:00 Noon, Healing Service Office Hours ~ Monday through Thursday, 9:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.; Friday - closed Telephone: ; E Mail: info@graceocala.org