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St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church Sudbury, Massachusetts December 2015

From the Organ Bench by Willie, Director

NOW that we are in the 'official' season of waiting ~ the Adult will be moving from the ridiculous to the . For the ridiculous part, they will sing at the Dickens Dinner on Saturday, December 5th. An evening not to be missed.

The precious Pageant on Christmas Eve afternoon brings the Nativity to life with angels, Joseph, Mary, the Babe, shepherds, Wise Ones, sheep, donkey, cows, and doves. For our youngest, this is the high point of Christmas Worship, which includes the Eucharist.

Then we are preparing for the sublime; our Late Christmas Eve Service. This is my favorite of the Church Year. We have new music: a piece titled "In Winter's Night" sung by the Adult Choir with 'cello accompaniment by Clarissa Briasco-Stewart. Also, two new carol arrangements for three-part men's voices and three part women's voices have been arranged by Carol Davies (our honorary Associate Music Director). We’ll also have our usual assortment of carols and instrumentalists preceding the Eucharist on December 24th.

On Sunday, December 20th, the choir will sing "O Thou That Tellest" from the Messiah with Georgie Johnson, Contralto as soloist. Mary Sue will a prelude on "Veni Emmanuel" written by Stuart Forster (organist at Christ Church Cambridge) and dedicated to Charles and Mary Sue Willie.

Once again we will offer "The Longest Night" on December 22nd at 7:30 pm; a service of contemplation and meditation for all who need to step out of the frenzy and reflect on the healing power of prayer and music. Mandy Fleming will be our soloist.

Our American Guild of Organists chaplain, Don D. Saliers, reminds us that "some pieces of music are capable of revealing things that verbal discourse alone cannot". The late night of the Christmas Eve Service and familiar carols help reveal the Mystery of Christmas that 'makes' Christmas for us.

Finally, do join us for the single service on December 27th at 10 AM for our annual Lessons and Carols.

Mary Sue

Christmas Worship Schedule ‘TIS THE SEASON …

Christmas Eve  DICKENS DINNER IS SATURDAY, DEC. 5 (P. 14)

3:00 PM Holy Eucharist II and Pageant  THE GIVING TREE GOES UP ON DEC. 5! (P. 5) 10:00 PM Christmas Music  ADVENT QUIET MORNING, DEC. 12 WITH 10:30 PM Holy Eucharist II MARTIN SMITH AT EPIPHANY, WINCHESTER

Christmas Day  CHRISTMAS CAROLING FLASH MOB ON DEC. 19

10:00 AM Holy Eucharist II (P. 15)

First Sunday of Christmas—December 27  CHRISTMAS PAGEANT & SIGNUP DETAILS (P. 8)

No 8 AM Service  LONGEST NIGHT SERVICE, DEC. 22

10:00 AM Lessons and Carols and Holy Eucharist II … AND MUCH. MUCH MORE (P. 16) The Mantle December 2015

From Our Rector by The Rev. Barbara Williamson

WE are deep into “The Holidays”. Some of us are a bit frantic with more to do than can reasonably be done. Some of us are grieving losses sustained this year or last year or the year before. Some of us are full of gratitude for the blessings we enjoy. Some of us cannot see the blessings, so darkened is our vision by social ills, family strife, or worrisome world events. The intensity of whatever we are experiencing is heightened by the fact that we are experiencing it at this time of year, during “The Holidays”, when expectations are sky-high and feels like a bit of a come-down.

As you go about your preparations for Christmas, as you encounter too much traffic and not enough parking spaces, as you likely overspend your budget, as you are tempted to over-consume food and drink, as you try for the perfection that eludes you, as you navigate family conflicts, I hope you will be gentle with yourself and others. I hope you will take time for yourself even at the expense of the goal of “making everything just right.” I hope you will spend more time “being with” rather than “doing for.”

There’s a world of hurt around us. Within the St. E’s community, there are parishioners who are dealing with debilitating illness or who are caring for parents or a child with The Love that came down debilitating illness. There are parishioners who are out of work or who otherwise have at (that first) Christmas suffered financial reversals. There are parishioners whose marriages are troubled. There was born into poverty, are parishioners who are at risk. There are parishioners who have lost loved ones--a social instability, and parent, child, spouse, sibling, nephew, or cousin--who won’t be seated at this year’s danger. That Love Christmas dinner. continues to be born into our hearts and lives I hope as you go about your preparations for Christmas that you will remember that just regardless of the like you, everyone around you has a story. Everyone around you has likely known difficulties we face now or difficulty and heartbreak. That difficulty and heartbreak may be fresh or may be old. It at anytime of the year. may ride on the surface. It may be deeply buried. Regardless of its visibility or hiddenness, it is felt most acutely this time of year. It might make for a shorter fuse. It might lead to overindulgence in food or drink. It might render us more labile emotionally.

Some parishioners are using the Sunday afternoon Celtic Eucharist as a place to rest and be spiritually renewed, as a place to re-center and refocus on the love, mercy, and grace of God, a practice that helps us to remember who we are as children of God, created by Love for love, even in the face of sadness, disappointment, and hardship. The Love that came down at (that first) Christmas was born into poverty, social instability, and danger. That Love continues to be born into our hearts and lives regardless of the difficulties we face now or at anytime of the year.

Let us be sure to take the time we need in these busy weeks to remind one another and ourselves of that Love and Light that shine in the darkness, that Love and Light which no darkness can overcome, that Love and Light which are the true gift of Christmas.

Barbara

2 December 2015 The Mantle

November Vestry Notes by Jake Fisher

Jack opened up the meeting by sharing data from the 2014 Survey of Episcopal conversations that showed a correlation between churches with clear mission/purpose and strong participation/growth. She then led us in a rich conversation about our mission. We agreed to continue the conversation at the next meeting.

Motion to approve October minutes – approved unanimously

Design Committee Update-Steve Robak came to the Vestry meeting to give an update on the work of the Design Committee, and Michael Comer listened by speakerphone. The update included a PowerPoint with visuals to explain the different options.

The Design Committee consists of 13 parishioners plus two architects. They have been meeting for a little more than a year. With a budget of just over $600,000, the Design Committee focused on how to “enhance and expand” our church. Steve reviewed how they selected the architectural firm, Maugel Architects, and discussed the ideas that led to the decisions and design. The design includes:

 Reducing the size of altar

 Including moveable, flexible seating around the altar

 Adding seating where the narthex is now

 Adding 20% seating overall (which meets the goal of the project)

 Adding a new narthex that also acts as a vestibule, to become a new “welcoming” entrance

 Enhancing and lightening up the wall at the back of the church and increasing the size of the windows

 Brightening the ceiling (either existing boards or adding tongue and groove ceiling boards)

 Keeping the lights in the same locations, but updating the fixtures

Steve shared a spreadsheet that the Design Committee has developed, including items that all are in favor of, items that are still under discussion, and items that are off the table. Questions that came up during the discussion include:

 Could the windows behind altar be operational to make church cooler in hot weather?

 Will there be enough space around the altar for the clergy and Eucharistic ministers to serve communion?

 Several churches in the area have moved to flexible seating around the altar. The question was asked if anyone has asked the groups who’ve made the change has any feedback about it.

The issue of replacing the ceiling with the tongue and groove panels vs. painting it is still under discussion. Two “mock -ups” have been created to help decide.

The Design Committee will make a recommendation to the Vestry. The Vestry thanked Steve for his tremendous work on the Design Committee.

Reports-In her Assistant Rector’s report, Jack gave an update on the Outreach Committee and the proposed plan to spend the remaining funds allotted for 2015. The was presented for review, and will be voted in December.

Walter asked for a motion to amend the 2015 Budget to include $5,000 for Outreach that was left out of the budget in error. Barbara noted that there was an overage in what was budgeted for prior year pledges by $5,900. Walter clarified that motion would be to include the normal amount budgeted for Outreach in the 2015 budget. It was approved unanimously.

(Continued on page 4)

3 The Mantle December 2015

November Vestry Notes , continued Barbara shared highlights from her Rector’s report, The Treasurer’s Report was approved unanimously. especially noting the need for anti-bias work in the parish. Walter shared an update from the Finance Committee. The Treasurer’s Report-Cheryl shared the highlights from They recommend participating in the purchase of “clean the financial reports. She noted that there are some timing energy” from St. Andrew’s Church in Framingham. They differences in the expenses, but even accounting for those generate 70,000 kilowatt hours from the solar panels on differences, we are below estimated budget. There are no their roof. They generate more than they use, and they significant unusual expenditures. On the balance sheet we sell it to others. have $337,000 in unrestricted cash. We received a Liaison Updates-Bob and Peggy Dawson are taking over restricted gift to the Rector’s discretionary fund in the leadership of the ushers. We added two families to the amount of $25,000, which we gratefully receive. A second coffee host rotation (starting in January): Kristen Collins, restricted gift in the amount of $25,000 was also received, and Larry and Lucie St. George. Walter shared that the but details are still to come regarding restrictions. Dawsons have also volunteered to be in charge of the She also shared an update on the Stewardship Campaign. servers at the Dickens Dinner. Dave and Kristine Mitchell As of today, $321,000 of pledges (toward the $415,000 will host the event. goal) have been received. That’s 77% of cash goal, 67% of Respectfully Submitted, pledge goal. As of today, there is $17,500 from new pledgers. After an analysis of the pledges that have come Jake Fisher in so far, they are predicting to come in at a total of $405,000.

Wardens’ Words by Michael Comer, Co-Warden

FOR the Finance Committee and Vestry, fall means budget time. This fall is no different. On top of normal budget activities, the Design Committee is going to be making a recommendation to the parish shortly. I am really excited about this, as the designs are inspiring and exciting; I hope you find them as such. Every time I see the design concepts, my heart beats faster. Many thanks to Steve Robak for his tireless leadership through this process; we are so lucky to have him. In terms of being good financial stewards, we are considering where we stand and how to proceed. Thanks to a lot of people’s efforts, but especially Cheryl Franke’s tireless, unending, and underappreciated efforts, our accounting is in excellent shape. Now, our job is to stay disciplined. We need to ensure we save enough for future capital needs (e.g., roof, rectory paint, etc.). This saving has been a plug in the past, but we are changing that. We also need to ensure we execute on the Comprehensive Campaign appropriately, balancing sanctuary size and with Assistant Rector and Outreach efforts. A lot of people have been incredibly generous, so we are all passionate about doing the right thing. Speaking of capital maintenance, Dave Mitchell has led some awesome efforts with Building & Grounds, including hours painting the interior with a crew of volunteers and fall cleanup efforts. Realizing I can be sappy in these articles, I feel blessed to be in this community with you all. From Dickens, Advent, and Christmas, to Winter Weekend, I look forward to spending time with all of you in the special months ahead. For now, Happy Thanksgiving!

Best, Michael

4 December 2015 The Mantle

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Atrium News by Susan Berry

Again, this Advent season, each week one atrium will come to the sanctuary right after the offertory to light the candles on the Advent wreath. Also, in December the schedules for the atria included plans for the following presentations. If you are wondering about these presentations and/or why they might be scheduled in Advent, you might ask the children or one of the catechists.

Level I Level II Level III

December 6 Prophecy of the Names Prophecy of Hills and Valleys Advent Meditation

December 13 Prophecy of the Mother Infancy Narratives – Theology of Giving

Annunciation/Visitation

December 20 The Nativity/Adoration Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids Giving Tree/Gifts of the Shepherds

December 27 No COGS No COGS No COGS

Transitional Atrium/Level I: Susan Dewey, Sarah Duffy, Ruth Griesel, Suzie Kornblum,

Level II: Kihm Sanders, Mara Huston

Level III: Kris Wile, Lisa Kenney, Angela Crocker

Hear ye, hear ye! The Giving Tree is coming!

It will be up beginning at the Dickens Dinner on December 5th. As in the past many years, we'll provide gifts for two Sudbury families, and hats, mittens, DD (Dunkin Donuts) cards and socks for the homeless through Ecclesia Ministries. There will be gift tag ornaments on the tree which will identify the requested gift(s). Please help yourselves to a tag or two. The family gifts should be returned wrapped with ornament tags and the Ecclesia gifts unwrapped with ornament tags no later than Sunday, December 13th.

In addition, this year the tree will include ornament tags for monetary/check donations to support the purchase of a couple of iPads for Kindergarten classrooms in the Blackstone School in Boston.

Lucie St. George, 978-443-2998

Kristin Fisher, 978-443-8077

Happy Birthday to ...

Kristine Robak, Tom Blesso, Erica Treese, Toby McKay, Derek Zurn, Alec Keilen, Carol Dicker, Mary Cubelli, Walter Morgan, Austin Rourke, Gayle Namchuk, Nathan Brewton, Brielle Bonin, Mileyna Acevedo, Meg Knaul, Jackie Blesso, Daniel Kilkenny, Richard Kornblum, Phillip Cass, Dave Wallingford, Julianne Greene, Devin Lembeck, David Spina, Elizabeth Dewey, Rich Cass, Daryl McKay, Josh Liberman, Harrison Brewton, Ian Herel, Brian Davenport, Pat Coffin, Maggie Watson, and Christopher Sheldon

5 DECEMBER 2015

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

29 30 1 2 3 4 5 Advent begins 3:00 PM Staff 10:00 AM Study 7:30 AM Wardens Meeting (MPR) 7:00 PM Choir 3:00 PM Design & Giving Tree goes up 8:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church Meeting (MPR) 10:00 AM TaiChi class (PH) Rehearsal (MPR) Consensus Meet- 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM 9:45 AM No church School (Barbara's Office) 12:30 PM Deanery Lunch 3:00 PM Healing & Prayer Class ing (Church) Dicken's Dinner up 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church (PH & (J2A Room) and preparation (PH & 11:15 AM Dicken's Dinner Meeting (MPR) 6:30 PM Finance Commit- 7:30 PM Evening Bible Study (J2A Kitchen) 11:15 AM Youth Choir Rehearsal (Choir loft) tee Meeting (MPR) room) 6:30 PM Dicken's Dinner 4:00 PM Stretch with Spirit Yoga (PH & MPR) 8:00 PM St. E's Men's Group (PH) 5:00 PM Celtic Eucharist (Church) (TBA) 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 8:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church 7:00 PM Creative 10:00 AM Bible Study 7:30 AM Wardens Meeting (MPR) 7:00 PM Choir 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM 8:45 AM COGS Monthly Meeting (MPR) Worship Team (MPR) 10:00 AM TaiChi class (PH) Rehearsal (MPR) Advent Quiet Day 9:45 AM Church School (COGS, Rite 13 & J2A) (MPR) 11:00 AM Staff Meeting 3:00 PM Healing & Prayer Class (Church of the Epiphany, 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church (Barbara's Office) (J2A Room) Winchester) 11:00 AM Christmas Pageant Rehearsal (Church) 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Music 5:00 PM YAC lock in 11:15 AM Sanctuary Remodel Update (Architect's Planning (MPR) Presentation) PH 6:00 PM Miracle Kitchen 11:15 AM Youth Choir Rehearsal (Choir loft) (YAC Group) (Framingham) 4:00 PM Stretch with Spirit Yoga (PH & MPR) 4:00 PM YAC Meeting (J2A room) 5:00 PM Celtic Eucharist (Church) 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Giving Tree gifts are due back to St. E's 7:15 PM Stephen 10:00 AM Bible Study 7:30 AM Wardens Meeting (MPR) January Mantle Articles Are 8:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church Ministry Supervi- (MPR) 10:00 AM TaiChi class (PH) Due! 9:00 AM ASP Informational Meeting (PH) sion (MPR) 12:00 PM Staff Meeting 12:45 PM - 3:00 PM Nixon Daisy 7:00 PM Choir 9:45 AM Church School (COGS, Rite 13 & J2A) (Barbara's Office) Troop (Kitchen) Rehearsal (MPR) 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church 3:00 PM Healing & Prayer Class 11:00 AM Christmas Pageant Rehearsal (Church) (J2A Room) 11:15 AM Youth Choir Rehearsal (Choir loft) 7:30 PM Evening Bible Study (J2A 11:30 AM St. Elizabeth's Book Club (J2A room) room) 4:00 PM Stretch with Spirit Yoga (PH & MPR) 5:00 PM Celtic Eucharist (Church) 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 8:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church 6:50 PM Vestry 10:00 AM Bible Study 7:30 AM Wardens Meeting (MPR) Winter Vacation Winter Vacation 9:45 AM Church School (COGS, Rite 13 & J2A) Meeting (MPR) (MPR) 10:00 AM TaiChi class (PH) 3:00 PM Holy Eucharist II- 10:00 AM Christ- 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Church 11:00 AM Staff Meeting 3:00 PM Healing & Prayer Class Church-Christmas Pageant mas Day Holy 11:00 AM Christmas Pageant Rehearsal (Church) (Barbara's Office) CANCELLED 10:00 PM Christmas Music Eucharist II - 11:15 AM Youth Choir Rehearsal (Choir loft) 7:30 PM The Longest Night (Church) Church 4:00 PM YAC Meeting (J2A room) Service - Church 10:30 PM Christmas Eve 5:00 PM Celtic Eucharist (Church) Holy Eucharist II -Church 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 9:45 AM No church School Winter Vacation Barbara is out of the office Barbara is out of the office Winter Vacation New Years Day 10:00 AM Holy Eucharist II - Lessons & Carols - Church Winter Vacation Winter Vacation 7:00 PM Choir Rehearsal (office closed) 11:15 AM Youth Choir Rehearsal (Choir loft) 7:30 AM Wardens Meeting 10:00 AM TaiChi class (PH) (Cancelled) Winter Vacation (MPR) 3:00 PM Healing & Prayer Class 10:00 AM Bible Study CANCELLED (MPR) 11:00 AM Staff Meeting (Barbara's Office) Miracle Kitchen December 6 December 13 December 20 December 22 December 24 December 25 December 27 Coordinator: Christmas Day Stevie Spina 2nd Sunday 3rd Sunday 4th Sunday The Longest Christmas Lessons &

Kitchen Angel: in Advent in Advent in Advent Night Pageant & Carols Christmas Eve

No preacher No preacher Preacher 8 AM John 8 AM Jim 8 AM John 3 PM Matt Chafe 10:00 AM 10:00 AM Eucharistic Brackett Newton Brackett Ruth Griesel Ruth Griesel Jim Peters Ministers 10 AM Steve 10 AM Sara 10 AM Jake Fisher Davies Kimble Steve Davies 10 PM Stuart

Stuart Hamilton Betsy Wallingford Hamilton Betsy Wallingford Matt Chafe/ Dan Knaul/ Larry Stewart/ 3 PM TBA Breadbearer & Clergy Clergy Clergy Clergy Cliff Card Janice Darias John Howard Dan Knaul Third Station

Jane Graham Eric Kimble Walter Morgan Lector Jim Peters Stuart Pease Jane Graham Mandy Fleming Healing Minister Walter Morgan Angela Crocker TBA 3 PM Michael Comer Mari Weldon Vestry Person of the Day Pat Coffin Terry Rourke Bonnie Powell 3 PM David Varner Richard Cass Ushers Matt Chafe Ray Considine John Romain TBA 10 PM Bob & Peggy Dawson 8 AM Stevie 8 AM Clare Perry 8 AM Stevie Spina 7 PM 3:00 PM ? 10:00 AM 10:00 AM Altar Guild Spina 10 AM Clare 10 AM Stevie 10 PM Clare Perry Clare Perry 10 AM Stevie Perry Spina Spina

Carolyn Bacon Janice Darias Betsy Wallingford Open Coffee Server The Mantle December 2015

Christmas Pageant 2015

On Christmas Eve each year, the children of St. Elizabeth's share the story of the birth of Jesus during our Annual Christmas Pageant. From wise men to barnyard animals, there is a part of everyone (pre-school through fifth grade). This year's pageant will place on Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, 2014 at 3:00PM.

The speaking parts are: The non-speaking parts are:

Narrators (4) Three Kings

Gabriel The Star

Joseph Angels

Mary Shepherds

Inn Keeper(s) Beasts (cows, doves, sheep, donkey)

Rehearsals: There will be 3 rehearsals after the 10:00 service on December 6, December 13 and December 20.

Costumes will be distributed on 12/20.

Christmas Eve: Please arrive in costume no later than 2:15. Please wear neutral colored clothing under costumes and socks or tights (no shoes, please).

Sign up: Please email Kristen Collins at [email protected] with the following information :

 Parent name/email

 Child's name  Child's age/grade

 1st choice role

 2nd choice role

We hope your children will be able to join this special Christmas tradition at St. Elizabeth's Church!

Sincerely,

Kristine Robak and Kristen Collins

8 December 2015 The Mantle

ADVENT QUIET DAY ON DECEMBER 12

On Saturday, December 12th, the wonderful Rev. Martin L. Smith will be leading an Advent Quiet Day entitled “Opening Wide the Door” at Parish of the Epipha- ny in Winchester from 9am to 12pm. There is a suggested donation of $20. If you have never heard Martin Smith speak, he is not to be missed! If you’d like to car- pool from St. Elizabeth’s, please email Jack at [email protected]. We hope you can join us and treat yourself to some quiet, reflective time in the midst of this busy season.

STRETCH WITH SPIRIT YOGA

On Sundays between November 8th and December 13th at 4pm, parishioner Julie McKay will be leading a 45-minute gentle, all levels yoga class. The class will be held in either the Parish Hall or the Multi-Purpose room depending on the size of the class. Anyone 13 and older who can get down and up from the floor with relative ease is welcome to partici- pate. No yoga experience is needed. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a water bottle and mat (mats will also be available for those who do not have them).

CELTIC EUCHARISTS

On Sundays between November 8th and December 20th, we are offering a Celtic Eucharist on Sundays at 5pm. It is qui- et, contemplative, and candlelit, and lasts about 40 minutes. We invite you to join us to experience a different kind of worship.

CHURCH RENOVATION PRESENTATION BY ARCHITECTS ON DECEMBER 6

Please join us for a presentation by the architects about the church renovation at 11:15 am in the church on December 6.

MIRACLE KITCHEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ON DECEMBER 8

We are in need of volunteers to serve at the Miracle Kitchen, the Salvation Army’s soup kitchen in Framingham, on Tuesday, December 8th. Volunteers help prepare, serve, and clean up from 5:30 pm to no later than 7pm. It is located at 35 Concord in Framingham. If you can help out, please email Jack at [email protected] or add your name to the signup sheet under the painting in hallway by the office. Thank you!

ASP— SIGN UP FOR OUR 2016 TRIP NOW!

Our 2016 Appalachia Service Project mission trip will leave on Saturday, July 23rd and return on Sunday, July 31st. Youth who are currently in grades 8-12 are invited to participate. Any additional spaces will be offered to college-aged youth. Please email Jack at [email protected] ASAP to reserve your space, and send a check for $50 made out to St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church with “ASP” in the memo line to the church office. If you have any questions, please contact Jack or Barbara.

ST. E’S ANNUAL MEETING FEBRUARY 7 11:15 AM

9 The Mantle December 2015

Report from Diocesan , 2015 by Win Treese

On Saturday, November 14, 2015, Eric Kimble, Walter Morgan, Barbara Williamson, Jack Clark, and Win Treese attended the 230th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Boston. Eric and Walter represented St. Elizabeth's as the elected lay delegates from the parish, Barbara and Jack as clergy, and Win as a member of the Diocesan Council.

This was the first convention held in our newly renovated cathedral, which is remarkably different from its previous incarnation. Boxed pews have been replaced by moveable chairs, darkness with light, a feeling of being closed by a sense of openness and joy.

The Cathedral’s ministries have grown to include the MANNA community, a church community by and for unhoused people, which includes a writing group and the country’s first meditation group for unhoused people; hosting the Muslim community that brings together 500 people weekly for Friday prayers; the Crossing, where young adults who might not otherwise find a place in the church worship together. In addition to the regular Sunday services there, a Chinese congregation also meets at the Cathedral on Sunday afternoons. The renovations were supported in part by the TogetherNow campaign, so we at St. Elizabeth's had a hand in creating our revitalized cathedral---one that belongs not just to Boston, but to all of us in our diocese. If you have a chance to visit sometime, whether on a Sunday or just because you are passing by in Boston, stop by to see it.

Diocesan Convention can seem like an odd blend of the spiritual and the worldly. It begins with devotional, hears from the bishop, elects officials, votes for (and sometimes argues over) the budget for the coming year, considers resolutions about our part in the healing of serious problems in the world, and ends with prayer.

This year was no exception in the agenda, but we can report that our cathedral was filled with over five hundred diverse, excited, and engaged Episcopalians from the 180 parishes and missions from the eastern Massachusetts region encompassed by our diocese. Despite the many differences among the people, there was a strong spirit of unity and mission together filling the cathedral throughout the day.

In fact, the sense of mission was a significant part of the agenda for the day. According to the canons of our diocese, the Convention must adopt or renew a mission strategy every three years. Last year's Convention chose to delay the process of developing a mission strategy for a year, as Bishop Alan had just been consecrated. This Convention therefore launched a new process to take on that challenge, which begins with a series of conversations around our diocese to listen to what we all are thinking about the important challenges and opportunities for us together as a diocese. The listening will include meetings around the region, online surveys, and a call-in phone number for recording comments. More details about how you can participate are forthcoming.

The bishop traditionally addresses the Convention at the beginning of its work, and Bishop Alan did so with grace, depth, and humor. He spoke of what he learned as he spent the past year listening and learning about our diocese, about the paramount important of our work on diversity and against racism, and the importance of collaboration among parishes to achieve larger goals. And, of course, about the importance of this next year of creating a new mission strategy together.

We were also introduced to the three most recent mission hubs, which are collaborative ministries among multiple parishes around a shared vision. The initial resources for the hubs comes from the TogetherNow campaign, another way that St. Elizabeth's is helping to make a difference in ministry around eastern Massachusetts. One of the new ones

(Continued on page 11)

10 December 2015 The Mantle

(Continued from page 10) members plan and organized diocesan events for youth and represent the youth at Convention and other diocesan is an intentional community as a Boston/Cambridge hub, activities. Seeing so many youth and young adults excited serving the population of transient neighborhoods such as about the church reminds us all about the energy we have Allston/Brighton. Many people see intentional Christian in our church together. communities as an important part of expanding ways to In other actions, the Convention learned about the new be part of the church, and the new Boston/Cambridge hub investment fund, free of companies producing fossil fuels, is a fascinating experiment in creating one. (The mission that is available for investing both diocesan and parish hub nearest us wasn't new this year---it is up and funds, and also adopted a resolution in support of at St. Andrew's in Framingham, serving the Brazilian Christians and other religious minorities being persecuted immigrant community in Framingham, Hudson, and for their faith in the Middle East and elsewhere around the Marlborough.) world. The well-prepared budget was passed without We had the opportunity to see all of the Life Together controversy. fellows, thirty or forty of the across the front of the We are honored to have represented St. Elizabeth's at the cathedral. Life Together is a program for giving young Convention, and any of us would be happy to talk with adults opportunities to serve communities in many you more about the Convention if you have questions. different ways, while also living in community with each other. Mostly based in Boston, the program is slowly Win spreading out beyond the , often as part of the mission NOTE: A video of the Bishop’s address to Convention hubs. (and the text) can be found at: Following Life Together came the Diocesan Youth Council http://www.diomass.org/multimedia/video/video- (DYC), an even larger group of youth from all over our bishop-gatess-2015-diocesan-convention-address diocese committed to the work of the church. DYC

QUILT RAFFLE TO SUPPORT THE METROWEST FREE MEDICAL PROGRAM

Let’s join in to help a very worthy cause—the MetroWest Free Medical Program housed at Congregation Beth El in Sudbury and First Parish in Framingham.

First Parish of Sudbury Unitarian Universalist’s Living Our Faith Team is sponsoring the quilt raffle on the medical program’s behalf. The raffle quilt is a beautiful handmade quilt that would fit either queen or king sized beds. This would make a great holiday gift for someone special.

For tickets, please stop by the First Parish office between 9am and noon Monday-Friday between now and the raffle drawing on Sunday December 6 at 11:45am. Or, call their office at 978/443-2043 x3 or email [email protected].

They thank you for your support!

11 The Mantle December 2015

Be the Change You Want to See: Students Together Opposing Prejudice

Twenty-five years ago. Avis Hoyt O'Connor, the Assistant Minister of the United Methodist Church, Susan Murphy, Director of Religious of Our Lady of Fatima, and Sheila Goldberg, Director of Education at Congregation Beth El along with consultants from the Anti-Defamation League collaborated to develop a program aimed at Junior High students. This program, called S.T.O.P [Students Together Opposing Prejudice] is geared toward a selected group of junior high peer leaders. The goal of STOP is to develop a level of sensitivity to prejudice and discrimination among young people. Then, having increased their understanding and awareness of how discrimination on all levels affects the of life, they learn to become agents for change in their own peer group.

The program meets on seven Wednesday evenings starting on January 6 and running through March 9 (with a snow date of March 16). There are no sessions during LS exam week or February Vacation. Sessions rotate among several religious sites in Sudbury and the Islamic Center in Wayland. Sessions start promptly at 6:45 pm and end at 8:15. Parents are invited to attend a parent orientation at 6:45 PM on January 6 and to join their children at 8 PM for the concluding session on March 9.

In light of September 11th and its aftermath and recent anti-Semitic incidences in Sudbury those of us involved in the S.T.O.P. program feel that the work we are doing with the youth of our community has taken on added importance. A number of S.T.O.P. teens have gone through the program and in many cases chose to write their college essays about their experiences in S.T.O.P.

Please discuss this program with your child. If your child would like to participate you can send an e-mail to [email protected]. They can also pass this along to their friends. They do not need to be affiliated with any religious institution OR live in Sudbury.

To learn more about the program check out the video at https://youtu.be/Ug1nEclPLW4.

Listen to St. E’s Sunday’s Gospel and sermon: http://www.st-elizabeths.org/audio/

MP3 Prayer at http://www.pray-as-you-go.org/

Safe Church Policy at St. Elizabeth’s Church

All volunteers working with infants, children, adolescents, young adults and at risk parishioners are required to complete either an online or group Safe Church training certified by the Diocese of Massachusetts. Online training is available, at no cost, to all volunteers at St. Elizabeth’s. You must also have had a CORI check done within the past 3 years. Please contact Peg in the office at [email protected] to get certified.

12 December 2015 The Mantle

13 The Mantle December 2015

Dickens Dinner “There might be some credit in being jolly.”

Sponsored by St. Elizabeth’s Fellowship Committee

Join us for a festive evening of good food, fellowship, and song as we start the Christmas season.

Saturday, December 5, 2015 Hors d’oeuvres at 6:30 PM Dinner at 7:15 PM After Dinner and Carol Sing Roast Beef with horseradish sauce — Potatoes Winter Squash — Green Beans — Rolls and Butter—Coffee and Tea — Flaming Plum Pudding Cost is $30.00 per person (includes a $10 donation for Youth Outreach 2016 - Appalachian Service Project)

December 1: RSVP and please send your check, payable to St. Elizabeth’s, with the form below to: Deborah Comer, 82 Thunder Rd, Sudbury, MA 01776, ([email protected])

We are great need of volunteers to help with service, cleanup, food purchasing, event co-ordination. If you are available and willing to help, please contact Walter Morgan at [email protected] or (781) 235-8165 To keep costs down, please bring an appetizer for 6-8 people. Thank You!

We’re coming!

Family Name ______

Email address ______Phone number ______

How many? ______Amount Enclosed $ ______

Yes, we’d love to bring an appetizer.

14 December 2015 The Mantle

Come join us for a kinder, gentler Christmas Caroling Flash Mob at Sudbury Farms (439 Boston Post Rd. Sudbury) on Saturday, December 19th from 2:30-3:30 pm

Sudbury United Methodist Church invites all of the local faith communities to join us to share the Christmas spirit with our neighbors.

Last year, we had 35 people from 4 local churches join together for a lot of and merriment. Shoppers joined in the fun – and we even had a drive-by caroler!

Come and add your voice to the celebration!

Call Brad Stayton (617-460-3816) if you have questions

15 The Mantle December 2015

Saturday, December 5 Dickens Dinner, 6:30 pm Sunday, December 6 Pageant Rehearsal #1, immediately following 10 am service Church Renovation Project Presentation, 11:15 am Stretch with Spirit—Gentle Yoga, 4 pm Celtic Eucharist, 5 pm Saturday, December 12 Advent Quiet Morning with the Rev. Martin Smith at Epiphany Winchester Sunday, December 13 Pageant Rehearsal #2, immediately following 10 am service Stretch with Spirit—Gentle Yoga, 4 pm Celtic Eucharist, 5 pm Wednesday, December 16 Bible Study—The Parables of Jesus, 7:30 pm Saturday, December 19 Christmas Caroling Flash Mob at Sudbury Farms, 2:30 pm

Sunday, December 20 Pageant Rehearsal #3, immediately following 10 am service

Celtic Eucharist, 5 pm

Tuesday, December 22 The Longest Night Service, 7 pm

Thursday, December 24 Holy Eucharist & Pageant, 3 pm Christmas Music, 10 pm and Holy Eucharist, 10:30pm Friday, December 25 Holy Eucharist, 10 am Sunday, December 27 Lessons and Carols and Holy Eucharist, 10 am (there is no 8 am service) Sunday, February 7 St. E’s Annual Meeting, 11:15 am

One Morse Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776 978-443-6035

The Rev. Barbara S. Williamson, Rector [email protected]

The Rev. Jacqueline Clark, Assistant Rector [email protected]

Mary Sue Willie, Director of Music [email protected]

Peg Scarlata, Parish Administrator [email protected]

Walter Morgan and Michael Comer, Co-Wardens [email protected]

St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church invites seekers to share the joys and challenges of a journey of faith. Following the teachings of Jesus Christ and guided by scripture, tradition, and reason, we proclaim by word and action the love of God. We seek to serve and praise Christ in all people by celebrating the greatness of God's creation and all its creatures, helping those in need, and striving for justice and peace in all areas of our common life. 16 www.st-elizabeths.org