MSU's Reflect and Rejoice Concert: Celebrating African American

February, 2016 Volume 141, Issue No. 2 Jeanie Munn/Photo •

The 189th Annual Council convened in Biloxi the last week of January. See the bishop’s address report on page 2 and resolutions passed, including one supporting a new flag for the state of Mississippi, on page 3. MSU’s Reflect and Rejoice Concert: Celebrating African American History through Music honors Starkville racial reconciliation leader By Scott Lenoir For the first time in many years, Dr. George was not at Council as she had an Executive Council Task Group Dr. Anita Parrott George will be honored in Feb- meeting for the national church in Raleigh, NC. She ruary with a choral anthem commissioned by Dr. Karen did not know about the resolution, printed on page 3, Murphy, organist/choirmaster at until this reporter read it to her on Monday after Coun- Resurrection/Starkville, and member of the piano de- cil. partment at Mississippi State University. Murphy wrote “I love the Episcopal Church,” said George, “and I a grant for the creation of the piece, which was com- am appreciative to my church family at every level— posed by Dr. David Hurd, former Professor of Sacred who have heard me, supported me, and made space Inside this issue: Music at General Theological Seminary in New York for my voice which, in turn, has given voice to many Resolutions ...... 3 City. Dr. Hurd will be in attendance at the event. The others not the table. Over and over, we have seen the anthem is based on Isaiah 11: 1-9, the Old Testament face of God in each other.” Elections ...... 4 lesson read by Dr. George at the installation of Presid- When asked about her thoughts on the anthem McCormick retires ...... 5 ing Bishop Michael Curry last November. and the resolution passed by Council, Dr. George said Godly Play training ...... 6 The anthem will be performed by the University that she was so happy people recognized her work. Singers of Mississippi State under the direction of Dr. She confessed that she often felt like she was just Dr. Anita P. George Gary Packwood on Monday, February 22, at the First “plugging away” at her efforts in racial reconciliation Bob Parrott/Photo Baptist Church in Starkville at 7:30 p.m. and wondered if it made any difference. Murphy received the grant through the Criss Dr. George said, “Ultimately, I feel very, very hum- Fund, which is made available to the faculty of MSU. ble, and then just joyful. I hope that people who think One requirement for receiving funding is that the proj- they are just plugging way will see that they can make a ect must be of a religious nature, and the reading from difference.” Isaiah fills that requirement; however, when the grant Regarding her work in anti-racism training, Dr. was written, no one knew that Dr. George would be George said, “People do not want to go through the reading the same lesson at the presiding bishop’s in- discomfort of talking about it [racism], but we can stallation. “It just seems providential that the piece was never get rid of it until we talk about it in every genera- based on the reading Anita read at Presiding Bishop tion. It’s not an easy conversation to have. Curry’s installation,” said Murphy. “I hear so many younger people say we’re in a Murphy said that she first met Dr. George in an post-racial era, that racism is no longer with us, and I airport three years ago where the two engaged in an agree that things are really different, but the conversa- hour-long conversation. Murphy said that over the tions need to continue. We need to be aware of our years, “Anita’s boundless energy, love and devotion for past and how it affects our future together. We always humanity made it a thrill for me to have this anthem need to talk with each other.” Congratulations to the Revds. Alex Allain, Hailey Allin, Katie Bradshaw, Will Compton, dedicated to her.” Jennifer Southall, and Morris Thompson III — all ordained to the priesthood at Another honor for Dr. George came at the 189th The Rev. Scott Lenoir is the editor of the Mississippi Annual Council in Biloxi at the end January when a res- Episcopalian. St. Andrew’s Cathedral/Jackson on January 16. Josh Geter/Photo olution commending Dr. George’s efforts was passed. COUNCIL ADDRESS Bishop’s address picks up PB’s Jesus Movement focus

Jeanie Munn/Photo By Scott Lenoir Mission abroad Marriage The bishop noted the The bishop announced his intention to fol - Bishop Brian Seage acknowledged that we work of the Honduras Med - low the existing process towards discernment are one church joined together by our Lord, even ical Mission that will soon about the adoption of same sex blessings and though the church holds a diversity of opinion, embark on its 34th mission marriage which grants each parish and mission but he also told those gathered at the 189 th An - trip taking medical supplies the authority to decide its own practices. While nual Council that Being One Church isn’t and services to San Joaquin acknowledging the imperfection of the system, enough. It is a start, a beginning point, but not and several other villages he also stated that clergy have always had the enough. surrounding it in the Santa right to decline to officiate any marriage for any “Our survival as a denomination, and as Barbara region. “Most im - reason. Christians, calls us to not just stay right here, but pressive,” said the bishop, “I believe it is necessary for us to provide a to be out there—in the world. We cannot de - “is that they haven’t stopped safe avenue for these conversations. I believe it pend on people simply finding us. We need to looking for ways to more ef - is important for us to pray together, affirm our go out and lead them in!” fectively and efficiently prac - faith in the words of the creed and share how Recalling words of Presiding Bishop Michael tice their ministry. Thank God speaks to God’s people,” said Seage. Curry, Seage said, “…our new presiding bishop you.” Parishes undergoing a process are encour - has boldly declared, ‘This is the Jesus movement, Seage announced that aged to continue; however, parishes or missions Bishop Seage begins annual address at Council and we are The Episcopal Church, the Episcopal he received an invitation to contemplating a process are asked to wait until branch of Jesus’ movement in the world.’ visit with Bishop Murray in Easter when a new process will be offered. “With “Friends,” said Seage, “we are the Missis - Bishop Seage noted the recent work of St. Panama. Murray invited our bishop to try this new process…options will remain similar to sippi branch of the Jesus’ movement in this Paul’s/Columbus that sent parishioners around Panama’s surf—adding enticement to an already the past: 1) do nothing; 2) differentiate your world.” the neighborhood inviting people to its Christ - strong relationship with Mississippi’s companion parish from process; 3) run the process, and re - As the bishop stated at last year’s Annual mas service as reported on page 24 of the Janu - diocese. quest that the ban on same sex weddings be Council, the word, “being” is an active word. ary issue of the Mississippi Episcopalian. In April of this year, Seage will be a part of a lifted or, a new option; 4) if you discern for pas - “Being is not resting or passive,” said Seage not - Recovery Program and Wellness Mississippi team to visit Uganda as a guest of toral reasons your parish is divided on the issue ing that we have the choice to stay “within our Last year, the Episcopal Recovery Program Bishop Jackson of the Diocese of Rwenzori. but feels called to ask their affiliate clergy (rector, own little cloistered communities of faith” or, as was established by Bishop Seage to assist persons Seage noted that given the recent primates meet - associates or curate) to make this available to Seage hopes, we can be called out into an active and families dealing with all facets of recovery. ing in Canterbury, such a trip was an important parishioners in a context outside of the parish, I and vibrant faith, Being One Church in Mission. The bishop also announced that the André Fund one to make. will grant permission for them to do so.” Quoting the catechism in Book of Common was created last spring. The fund is named for Closer to home, several offerings within Bishop Seage will also grant permission to Prayer , the bishop reminded those gathered that André Conway, “who, though his life was cut Mississippi churches for Spanish-speaking people retired clergy and non-parochial clergy to request the church carries out its mission through the short, reached out to many in the recovery com - have been taking place. The bishop cited St. permission to perform same sex weddings out - ministry of all its members. “You heard it right,” munity.” The fund has helped four people get Peter’s/Oxford and St. John’s/Ocean Springs, side of the parish context. said Seage, “we are all called to be missionaries started in a program of recovery. The offering at which are both involved with this ministry. “I’m All of the bishop’s remarks were put in con - and all people represent the mission field the closing Eucharist went to the André Fund. proud to say that I muddled through the service text with the Supreme Court decision in June of whether across the globe or across town.” Again The 2015 Clergy Conference held at Gray at St. Peter’s last spring. Apparently, I did alright 2015 that legalized same gender marriage. Fur - quoting Presiding Bishop Curry, “Now is our Center in October focused on wellness and to re - as they gave me a nickname, ‘El Grande Obisbo’.” thermore, a few days later and in light of the time to go. To go into the world, letting the mind clergy to “honor the vessel God has given Canterbury meeting Supreme Court ruling, General Convention world know that there is a God who loves us, a us,” said Seage. More local programs are Bishop Seage noted there has been a lot of voted during meetings in Salt Lake City to define God who will not let us go, and that that love can planned, beginning with Mississippi clergy, to concern on the part of many in the Episcopal marriage as being between two people, not only set us all free.” offer resources for better health and wellness. Church regarding the recent primates meeting in between a man and a woman. Canterbury. At that meeting the Episcopal “I have been moved by the patience with Church was censured, “not suspended or kicked those traditionalists who talk with me. I appreci - out—censured. The primates voted unanimously ate their willingness to share [and hold their Continually published for 140 years in the Diocese of Mississippi to continue to walk together,” said Seage who views] which is protected by law and the also stated that he was grateful for that vote, and church,” Seage said. grateful for the words and vision of Presiding Thanksgiving Bishop Curry. Throughout the address Bishop Seage was “We are still very much in communion with profoundly thankful to all of those who have our brothers and sisters from around the globe. opened their doors of their homes, churches, We are still in communion with the four instru - and hearts to him during the first year of his epis - ments of unity,” said Seage citing the historic copacy. He took a few minutes also to speak of Official news organ of the Bishop and the Diocese of Mississippi Chicago-Lambeth Quadrilateral found on page his father, Richard “Dick” Seage, who died in Cal - 118 N. Congress Street - P.O. Box 23107 876 in the Book of Common Prayer. ifornia a few days before Council convened. His Jackson, Mississippi 39225-3107 Finances father’s aviation axioms were noted several times “I hate that it is a deficit,” said Bishop Seage in the bishop’s address. Early in his address, referring to the 2016 diocesan budget. “We are Seage offered thanks to friends saying, “Your The Rt. Rev. Brian R. Seage not going to simply ‘ride our endowments prayers were a comfort to me and my family. I Tenth Bishop of Mississippi down.’ We will be paying close attention to the believe in your prayer and I believe your prayers bottom line.” The bishop promised to be work - helped lift him [Dick Seage] up and carry him The Rev. Scott Lenoir ing with the finance committee, executive com - into the closer company of the saints in light.” Editor mittee and those on the diocesan staff to keep a A resolution honoring Dick Seage may be vigilant eye on the budget throughout the year, found in the resolutions section of this paper. The Mississippi Episcopalian (USPS 024755) is published monthly by the Episcopal Diocese of paying particular attention to large line items. To read the entire annual address to Council, Mississippi, 118 N. Congress St., Jackson, MS 39201. Periodical postage paid at Jackson, MS. “My hope is that by the year-end, and into 2017, log on to www.dioms.org. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to the Mississippi Episcopalian, P.O. Box 23107, Jack - we will see the blessing and benefit—on the bot - son, MS 39225-3107. In giving changes of address send the old address as well as the new. tom line—of those creative efforts.” The Rev. Scott Lenoir is the editor of the We cannot be responsible for the return of manuscripts or photographs. Mississippi Episcopalian.

2 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2016 RESOLUTIONS

A COURTESY RESOLUTION FOR ALL Whereas, in our own diocese Dr. George, A COURTESY RESOLUTION THANKING health insurance, endowments, pensions, and SAINTS’ EPISCOPAL SCHOOL through her leadership as chair of the diocesan THE HOST CHURCHES numbers in general; and Whereas , the Diocese of Mississippi, under the Racial Reconciliation Task Force, has led us to a Whereas, the 189 th Annual Council of the Dio - Whereas, the 189th Annual Council’s presence in leadership of the Rt. Rev. Theodore DuBose Brat - deeper awareness of the evils of racism and the cese of Mississippi encountered “blue skies and Biloxi reminds us of her critical importance in ton, founded All Saints’ College in 1908 as a hope and promise of racial healing; and new skies” upon arrival on the Gulf Coast; and moving from wading in the water at the Tent school for girls; and Whereas, she was chosen to read the Old Testa - Whereas, the churches of the Gulf Coast serve as Meeting to navigating the troubled waters of Kat - Whereas , the dioceses of Louisiana and Arkansas ment lesson at the installation of the Right Rev - a witness and an icon of resurrection into new rina where she served as a lighthouse to the joined in ownership in 1962 and later the Dio - erend Michael B. Curry as the 27 th Presiding life from deep sorrow and death; and churches of the Gulf Coast in the midst of their cese of Western Louisiana; and Bishop of the Episcopal Church; and Whereas , we enjoyed the abundance of local own resurrection; and Whereas, the ministries of All Saints’ School have Whereas, Dr. George’s tireless efforts have been food, and we fed and supported people in need Whereas, any Mississippi Episcopalian looking responded to changing needs for more than 100 recognized with the dedicated composition of an along the coast and supported Cafe’ Climb in for funding has learned that Kathryn knows the years; and anthem by Dr. David Hurd, to be performed in their endeavors to teach a trade; and location of secret pools of money out of which to Whereas, the mission of education and formation recognition of Black History Month in Starkville, Whereas, Lena Melton, skilled verger and cat fund Christ’s mission and the Church’s min - of leaders has continued to be the focus of All Mississippi, on February 22, 2016; herder, along with Marie Porter, with her busi - istries; and Saints’ School; and Now, therefore, be it resolved, this 189 th Annual ness acumen and mad dancing skills, led the Whereas, she has shepherded countless postu - Whereas, the historic commitment to education Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi Coast churches, being one Church in Mission, in lants and candidates for ordination through the continues today in the molding of leaders to expresses its gratitude to Dr. Anita Parrot George an historic, convocation-wide hosting of Council; valley of shadows known as seminary, whose serve AmeriCorps National Civilian Community for her years of dedicated leadership to bring therefore be it anxieties have been assuaged with reassurance Corps volunteers; and about reconciliation among all people; and Resolved, that the 189 th Council of the Diocese that “Kathryn will know what to do;” and Whereas , All Saints’ School and the owning dio - Be it further resolved, this Council congratulates of Mississippi express our deep appreciation to Whereas, she has also served the Church as a ceses support the education and training of her on the honors and recognition she has re - the Council’s co-chairs Lena Melton and Marie deputy to General Convention, Secretary of AmeriCorps volunteers as they provide a variety ceived. Porter and the numerous volunteers from the Council, chair of the Diocesan ECW, trustee of of programs which assist with critical community RESOLUTION TO ENCOURAGE THE Coast Convocation churches. the Church Pension Fund, and faithful member needs in education, public safety, health and the ADOPTION OF A NEW STATE A COURTESY RESOLUTION FOR CANON of St. Andrew’s Cathedral; and environment. FLAG OF MISSISSIPPI KATHRYN WEATHERSBY MCCORMICK Whereas, she is a pioneer, matriculating at the Be It Resolved , that this 189 th Council of the Dio - Resolved , this 189th Annual Council of the Epis - Whereas, Canon Kathryn Weathersby McCormick University of the South, Sewanee in the first class cese of Mississippi affirms the ongoing ministry copal Diocese of Mississippi recognizes that icons has served God and the Episcopal Diocese of of female students and being recognized at the of education and formation done at All Saints’ and symbols are, and have always been, impor - Mississippi as a faithful administrator, guide, and 174th Annual Council as the first female and the School through its work with AmeriCorps; and tant to the liturgical life and practice of The Epis - adviser to bishops, clergy, and lay alike; and first lay Canon for Administration and Finance; copal Church in leading us to Jesus Christ and in and Be It Further Resolved, that we commend the Whereas, for the past 23 years she has served in inspiring us to share the Good News that is at the continuing work of the Board of Trustees of All the Diocesan Office as Administrative Assistant Whereas, she has done all this with exceptional heart of our ministry; and be it further, Saints’ School in their faithful pursuit of the and then as Canon for Administration and Fi - class, grace, and dignity; and school’s original mission by the relationship with Resolved , that, in light of the importance of sym - nance, faithfully tending to Diocesan budgets; Whereas, she is now trading troubled waters for AmeriCorps to form volunteer leaders for the na - bols and icons and of our Baptismal Covenant training new bishops; advising Councils, Execu - the calmer waters of cruises, camping, and pud - tion. commitment to “respect the dignity of every tive Committees and Trustee meetings; and dle jumping with Hap, Marley, and Troy, III; and human being,” this 189th Annual Council of the A COURTESY RESOLUTION maintaining a steady presence in the changes and Whereas, she will never again deliver to clergy Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi encourages the chances of Allin House; and conference news of the coming changes to health COMMENDING Mississippi Legislature to adopt a state flag that DR. ANITA PARROTT GEORGE Whereas, she is officially described as the “super - insurance premiums, thereby allowing her to does not include the Confederate battle flag but visor of all accounting functions for the Diocesan hang up her bulletproof vest; Whereas, Dr. Anita Parrott George has been a represents, unites, and respects the dignity of all budget,” in reality, we know her to be the brain- Now, therefore , be it resolved that this 189th An - long-time leader at Church of the Resurrection, the citizens of Mississippi; and be it further trust for all aspects of our diocesan life related to nual Council of the Diocese of Mississippi meet - Starkville, and in the Episcopal Diocese of Missis - Resolved, that the 189th Council of the Diocese sippi; and ing in Biloxi show its gratitude and appreciation of Mississippi urges the Legislature to take such to this faithful servant, lovingly giving thanks to Whereas, her leadership has been most manifest action prior to the 2017 observance of the bicen - in her tireless efforts to fight racism and bring Almighty God for the blessing she has been to tennial of Mississippi becoming a member of the our life together. about racial reconciliation in all communities; United States of America and the opening of the and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum; and be it further RESOLUTION IN MEMORY OF RICHARD “DICK” SEAGE Whereas , her gifted, passionate, and gentle lead - Resolved, that the Secretary of Council communi - ership has been recognized by her election as a cate the contents of this resolution to the Gover - Whereas , Richard “Dick” Seage navigated the skies Deputy to Episcopal General Conventions six nor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the of the United States and Canada, exhibiting all the times; and House of Representatives of the State of Missis - while the gentleness, kindness, hospitality, and Whereas, those extraordinary gifts of leadership sippi. love of family which were so characteristic of him; have prompted her to be appointed Chair of the and Anti-Racism Task Force for the Episcopal Church, Whereas , Dick piloted his son to swim lessons and and to be elected twice to the Executive Council surfing, where said son was “stoked”; and of the Episcopal Church; and Whereas , a gentle wind breezed in and propelled Dick on his final destination; and Whereas , after 40 years of flying planes, Dick is now flying with the angels and most likely delight - ing in every moment; and Whereas , Dick lovingly and thoroughly prepared his son to be the man he has become, the loved and respected leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the 189th An - nual Council of the Episcopal Church expresses its gratitude for the life and legacy of Richard “Dick” Seage, father of the 10th Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, Brian Seage.

February 2016 The Mississippi Episcopalian 3 ELECTIONS o t o h P / n n u

Fred Page was re-elected treasurer. Scott Davis was elected as trustee M

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of University of the South. Elected a e trustee of the diocese was Phillip J Carpenter. Elected to the executive committee were David Krouse, Keith Mooney, the Rev. Marian Fortner, the Rev. Robert Wetherington, and C.J. Meaders III. o t o h P / n n u M

e i n a e J Elected to the disciplinary board are the Rev. Elizabeth Wheatley-Jones, the Rev. Danny Meadors (center) presented four new licensed lay worship leaders who were in - Scott Lenoir, Becca Walton and (not pictured) Leigh Jensen Crawford. stalled at Evening Prayer on Friday night: (l to r) John Stuber, Scott Bauer, Susan Adams, and Gloria Jones. o t o h P / n n

The two senior priests in the diocese u M

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were recognized on Saturday at n a e Annual Council: the Rev. Cecil J Jones and the Rev. Bo Roberts cele - brate 50 years of ordained ministry this year. They were ordained in the Two new members of spring of 1966. A word of counsel to the standing commit - the newly ordained from our tee are Jim Wheeler honored seniors: Maintain trust and the Rev. Paul and faith in the tasks ahead of you. Stephens. Remember that with God all things are possible (Matt. 19:26). We give thanks and congratulations to these two fine priests. Scott Lenoir/Photo o t o h P / n n u M

e i n a e J Creator/Clinton decked out their spot in Mardi Gras style complete with fine cheeses, crackers and other snacks for all visitors.

4 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2016 CHANGING TIMES McCormick retires as diocesan canon By Scott Lenoir in McCormick's honor. The resolution highlights the critical importance of the role she has played and gratitude the dio - For 23 years Kathryn Weathersby McCormick has been cese has for the good work she has done. the main go-to person for seminarians and clergy working On Sunday, a portion of the closing Eucharist included though the bureaucracy of all things financial and insur - a liturgy of leave-taking and induction. McCormick officially ance-related in the Diocese of Mississippi. Her commitment ended her tenure as canon of finance and administration to serve went beyond the numbers as she formed close rela - and the Rev. Brian Ponder was inducted into the office. The tionships with clergy families as well as giving advice and bishop added one unexpected gift to Kathryn where he counsel to four bishops and their staffs. made her an honorary canon at St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Her presentations at clergy conferences were often met Jackson by a proclamation that is signed and sealed. with groans, as the ever-perplexing labyrinth of medical in - Ovations of appreciation and love were a part of the surance coverage grew more costly and complex. But entire weekend. through it all, lay persons and clergy knew they were getting “Thank you, all so much,” said McCormick over the the best information possible. McCormick’s expertise three-day council. gained her a seat as a trustee of the Church Pension Fund. While sitting in the staff area after the Friday business She was, and is, a valuable resource to the Episcopal session, McCormick said, “I’m just numb, and thankful.” Church. Canon Kathryn McCormick receives a Kathryn and her husband, Gerald, plan The 189th Annual Council held in Biloxi January 29-31 stained glass seal of the diocese from to spend time with family, and a move to be took three opportunities to acknowledge McCormick’s good diocesan staff. near some salt water may be in the future. work at the last Council she guided Well, done, good and faithful into being. At the end of the first servant—Matthew 25:23 business session Friday night, Kathryn was interrupted by the The Rev. Scott Lenoir is the editor bishop while she made her usual an - of the Mississippi Episcopalian. nouncements. Bishop Seage asked for all the diocesan staff to come to Jeanie Munn/Photos the stage. The staff presented Mc - Cormick with a stained glass image of the diocesan seal created by Pearl River Glass in Jackson. Canon David Johnson also presented a collection of cards and notes written to Mc - Cormick from persons around the Marie Porter (Redeemer/Biloxi) diocese and beyond. Johnson said and Lena Melton that a purse was collected for her (St. John’s/Ocean Springs) that would be given at a later time. Gerald and Kathryn McCormick with family at the closing co-chaired the 189th Annual On Saturday of Council a reso - Eucharist. Council Committee. Thank lution, printed on Page 3, was passed you; thank all of you who served on the Coast!

Scott Lenoir/Photo

February 2016 The Mississippi Episcopalian 5 OUR DIOCESE Cursillo community announces 2016 dates Society of abundance: Dr.Walter By Kimberly Lassiter Are you ready to begin a new journey with Christ? Consider signing up for a Cursillo weekend. Brueggemann comes to Greenwood The National Episcopal Cursillo Movement is dedicated to enabling members to live out their bap - tismal vows. This is approached in four ways: encountering God, developing a relationship with Christ, By Stephen Iwanski creating and living in community with other Christians, and taking “Apostolic responsibility” for spread - ing the Gospel. “It’s not laws that will make us better disciples. It’s discipline.” While Cursillo is for everyone, not every weekend is right for everyone. Each weekend is made in Following last January’s spellbinding visit from Van - God’s time and not our own. Potential participants should be ready to strengthen and deepen their derbilt New Testament scholar Amy-Jill Levine, the Episco - Christian life. In addition, they should be active in their local parish and prepared to engage more fully pal Church of the Nativity welcomed Dr. Walter in their community. Brueggemann on a recent chilly weekend in the Delta. The Cursillo weekend is an experience, not an event. For this reason, it is important that partici - Many visitors braved freezing rain and icy roads to join us pants be free from personal crisis. Participants need to be able to be completely present and engaged in in the parish hall on Friday night for a refreshing look at the weekend’s discussions and activities. the Exodus story. In many ways, Dr. Brueggemann’s talk If you feel that you are ready to make a Cursillo weekend or you know of someone who is ready, was as sobering and exhilarating as a blast of wintry wind. prayerfully consider one of our 2016 weekends: Cursillo #130 - April 28-May 1; Cursillo #131 – Sep - Covering “The Alternative Community of Moses,” Dr. tember 22-25. All weekends are held at Gray Center. Contact your local Ultreya rector or check out Brueggemann presented the Exodus story not in the typi - Dr. Walter Brueggermann during a lecture. www.cursillo.dioms.org for more information. cally epic historical fashion, but as a journey from Kimberly Lassiter is the secretary of the Mississippi Cursillo Secretariat. Pharaoh’s “economy of scarcity” to an “economy of abundance” in the wilderness. For the Israelites, Dr. Brueggemann asserted, their bondage in Egypt was defined by Pharaoh’s oppressive hoarding of re - Godly Play training offered in the Delta sources. Once they had escaped to the desert rather By Peter Gray than be plunged into starving desolation, God Nativity, Greenwood, will host a Godly Play training for adults interested in this unique approach showed them the blessings of plenty. In this read - to children’s formation the weekend of April 22-24. ing, the Law isn’t a prescriptive top-down restric - Built on the educational principles of Maria Montessori, Godly Play has the premise that all chil - tion, but guidance for living with one’s neighbors in dren have inherent religious potential and that given the right setting and invitation, they will explore an economy of abundance, where God provides for this spiritual potential on their own. Each Godly Play session begins with a warm welcome and an invi - all. Following the lecture, Dr. Brueggemann deftly tation to join a circle. Once the children are fielded questions about economic regulation, blue Dr. Brueggermann (far left) participates in a ready, a storyteller uses special props to tell a laws, and predatory lending practices. For a scholar panel discussion by the Rev. Giulanna Gray. sacred story, a parable, or a liturgical story. who has made a career out of reimagining the Old Also on the panel are the Rev. Dr. Calvin The children then choose what their ‘work’ Testament into modern society, it was the perfect Collins, New Zion Missionary Baptist Church in will be for the day. They can play with a story bridge to Saturday morning’s session. Greenwood; and the Rev. Carol Mead, rector of Titled “The Money Trail,” the morning talk and retell it themselves, choose art supplies, St. Peter’s by-the-Lake, Brandon. Mike Stanton/Photos or even take a nap! Each session ends with a once again broached themes of economics and com - feast and a blessing from the teacher. passion throughout the Bible. Dr. Brueggemann dusted off some neglected corners of Deuteronomy In 2015, Nativity created its first Godly and Leviticus concerning the forgiveness of debt and welcoming the oppressed back into society. He Play classroom for 3-6 year olds. The church then drew lines directly into Jesus’ Gospel teachings about the poor and excluded. Once again, the sent four teachers and their rector to Sewanee parish hall was packed with visitors who enjoyed doughnuts and coffee while intently scribbling notes for a four-day training. The program proved and raising questions. With a feverish, prophetic energy that belied his 82 years, Dr. Brueggemann en - so successful that older children began sneak - Children at Nativity participate in Godly Play. Char - gaged amiably with the assembly. ing into the Godly Play class! Choosing to lie Peel (second from left) baptizes a doll while Joseph After a brief break, Dr. Brueggemann sat down to join a panel of fellow religious leaders: the Rev. create a second classroom for 6-9 year olds, Gray (second from right) holds oil for anointing and Dr. Calvin Collins of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Greenwood and the Rev. Carol Mead, rec - Nativity also chose to host a training for its a wooden dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Libby tor of St. Peter’s by-the-Lake in Brandon, MS. The panel was facilitated by Rev. Giulianna Gray, priest-in- new teachers instead of sending them away to Powers (right) has arranged four baptismal candles to charge of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Indianola, MS. Gray read from written questions submitted Sewanee, Atlanta, or even further. represent each child playing in the group. by the audience, and the panelists took time to discuss and reply. These queries allowed the panelists to During a Godly Play training, partici - expound on a wide range of topics on how the Christian faith can be actualized in the community. Kathy Whicker/Photo pants will receive an introduction to the prin - On Sunday morning, Nativity’s congregation was augmented by many weekend visitors who ciples underlying the curriculum, experience fifteen of the stories first-hand, and learn to tell at least wanted to hear Dr. Brueggemann one last time. Following apposite scriptural readings from Nehemiah one story for himself or herself. and the fourth chapter of Luke, Dr. Brueggemann took to the pulpit and exhorted the assembly to live Nativity’s training begins Friday, April 22, at 1p.m. and ends Sunday, April 24, at 5p.m. The sched - out the Gospel in ways that would elicit wonder (and perhaps outrage) from society at large. Like Dr. ule is intended to be as convenient as possible for those teachers who will need to take off work while Levine one year ago, Dr. Brueggemann’s last message reminded us that the lessons of the Bible ought still completing the 22 contact hours required. Participants should plan on being present for the en - not comfort us into complacency, but challenge and provoke us to lead lives of uncommon love and tirety of the event. Unfortunately, both of Nativity’s Godly Play rooms are located on the second floor compassion for all neighbors. with no elevator access, so please plan accordingly. Early registration is $295 and includes three meals Stephen Iwanski is the youth minister at Nativity/Greenwood. during the event. Four weeks before the event, the cost goes to $360. To register, go to www.eventbee.com/v/ms04-16core. For more information, contact the Rev. Peter Gray at [email protected]. The Rev. Peter Gray is the rector of Nativity/Greenwood.

A note regarding Council Photographs Photographer Jeanie Munn from Trinity/Hattiesburg received many requests for copies of photos. If you will send her a low resolution photo of the photo you want, she will send you a high resolution copy at no charge. Go to either Trinity’s Facebook page or St. Andrew’s Cathe - dral Facebook to send her what you’d like to have in high resolution, which will be good for printing a hard copy. Jeanie’s email is [email protected]. Thank you to Jeanie for “being everywhere,” as one staffer put it. Good job!

6 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2016 EVENTS

DIOCESAN CALENDAR FEBRUARY 2016 • 7: Bishop Seage visits St. Paul’s, Columbus — 10:30 a.m. • 7-9: Presbyter POC — Gray Center • 10: ASH WEDNESDAY Bishop Seage visits St. Andrew’s Lower School, Jackson — 8:00 a.m. Bishop Seage visits St. Matthew’s, Forest — 6:00 p.m. • 12-14: Senior High DOY — Camp Bratton-Green o

13-20: Honduras Medical Mission t

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14: Bishop Seage visits St. Alban’s, Bovina — 10:00 a.m. /

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Bishop Seage visits St. Mary’s, Bolton — 4:00 p.m. u M

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17: Trustees of the Diocese Meeting — Allin House — 2:00 p.m. n

• a e • 18: Convocational Deans’ Meeting — Allin House — 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. J • 19-21: Seeds of Faith Conference — Mediator, Meridian Trinity/Hattiesburg to host Lenten concert series. A. C. Marble School • 21: Bishop Seage visits St. Peter’s by the Sea, Gulfport — 10:30 a.m. Bishop Seage visits Trinity, Pass Christian — 4:00 p.m. Tuesdays at Trinity • 24: Bishop Seage visits St. Timothy’s, Southaven — 6:00 p.m. • 26 Gray Center Board of Managers Meeting — 10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. concerts & luncheons 26-27: Leadership Summit — Gray Center • By Jeanie Munn • 27: Executive Committee Meeting — Gray Center • 28: Bishop Seage visits Trinity, Natchez — 10:30 a.m. 29: Bishop Seage visits Trinity Day School, Natchez — time TBA Hattiesburg Trinity Episcopal Church will be opening its doors beginning February 16th and con - • tinuing thru March 8th to the public to enjoy Tuesdays at Trinity, a Lenten tradition of concerts fol - MARCH 2016 lowed by luncheons hosted by the infamous “Merry Marthas.” The concerts feature a variety of talented local musicians, beginning on the 16th with a Duo of • 1: Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian 2: Bishop Seage attends Wesley Service, Holly Springs Rachel Taratoot Ciraldo on flute and Nicholas Ciraldo playing guitar. Next on the 23rd Trinity will host • Dr. Galit Kauntz, oboeist; Dr. Lois Leventhal, pianist; and Dr. Rebecca Chambers on horn. On March 1, • 4: Bishop Seage attends FEMA Induction at All Saints’, Vicksburg 4-5: Commission on Ministry Meeting — St. Columb’s, Ridgeland pianist Theresa Sanchez and soprano Viola Dacus will be performing music of Dr. James Sclater com - • posed specifically for Dr. Dacus. Completing the series will be Alexander Russakovsky, cellist, and pi - • 4-6: A. C. Marble School 5: Standing Committee Meeting — St. Columb’s, Ridgeland — 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. anist Elizabeth Moak. • Each concert will take place in the historic church, beginning at noon, with the luncheons held in • 6: Bishop Seage visits Chapel of the Cross, Rolling Fork — 10:30 a.m. Bishop Seage visits St. Stephen’s, Indianola — 5:00 p.m. the parish hall at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $10. For more information please contact Jane Butler, 601-544-5551 • 8: Fresh Start — Trinity, Hattiesburg — 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 8: Bishop Seage visits Canterbury: University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg — 6:30 p.m. • Jeanie Munn is a communicant at Trinity/Hattiesburg. • 10: Fresh Start — All Saints’, Grenada — 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. • 11-13: Jr. High DOY — Camp Bratton-Green • 17: Bishop Seage visits St. Patrick’s, Long Beach — 6:00 p.m. • 20 The Sunday of the Passion: PALM SUNDAY • 24: MAUNDY THURSDAY FAITHFUL DEPARTED • 25: Allin House closed for GOOD FRIDAY Please submit Faithful Departed notices to your church for submission • 26: HOLY SATURDAY Bishop Seage visits St. Philip’s, Jackson — 6:00 p.m. Robert (Bobby) Garland Steadman , 91, communicant of Trinity, Hattiesburg, died • 27: The Sunday of the Resurrection: EASTER DAY December 27, 2015. • 28: Allin House closed for Easter Monday Marion Gordon Stewart, Jr. , 90, communicant of Trinity, Natchez, died March 7, 2015. • 31: Executive Committee Meeting — St. Andrew’s Cathedral — 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The Rev. Gene Bennett , 74, retired rector of Redeemer, Brookhaven, died January 11, 2016. Carolyn Archie Warner Hastings , 94, communicant of Holy Innocents, Como, died APRIL 2016 January 13, 2016. 1-3: A. C. Marble School • Charles Graham Van Horn , 78, communicant of All Saints’, Tupelo, died January 13, 2016. • 1-14: Mission Trip to Uganda • 2: Cursillo #130 Staff Training Evelyn Smalling Wellons , 80, communicant St. Stephen’s, Columbia, died January 16, 2016. • 5: Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian Emogene Holland Carter , 89, communicant of Chapel of the Cross, Rolling Fork, died • 8-9: ECW Spring Conference — Gray Center January 5, 2016. • 16: Cursillo #130 Staff Training Willie Aubry Moak , 86, communicant of Mediator/Redeemer, Magnolia/McComb died • 17: Bishop Seage visits Christ Church, Vicksburg — 10:00 a.m. January 24, 2016. Bishop Seage visits St. Christopher’s, Jackson — 4:00 p.m. • 17-20: Presbyter POC — Gray Center • 20 Bishop Seage visits St. Alexis’, Jackson — 6:30 p.m. • 21: Bishop Seage attends FEMA Graduation — All Saints’, Vicksburg • 21-23: Deacons’ Retreat — Gray Center • 22-24: Godly Play Training — Nativity, Greenwood • 24: Bishop Seage visits St. Peter’s, Oxford — 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Bishop Seage visits Canterbury: University of Mississippi — 4:30 p.m. Bishop Seage visits St. Peter’s, Oxford — Hispanic Service — 6:00 p.m. • 27: Trustees of the Diocese Meeting — Allin House — 2:00 p.m. • 28-May 1: Cursillo #130 — Gray Center • 30: Diocesan Altar Guild Meeting — St. Alban’s, Bovina — 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

February 2016 The Mississippi Episcopalian 7 OUTREACH I’m Walkin’ for my Freedom: The Selma March and Voting Rights photography exhibit of Matt Herron at Coast Episcopal School By Anna Harris In 1970, he set sail in a small boat with his wife The Gail Keenan Art Gallery at Coast Episcopal School is ex - and two children bound cited to announce I’m Walkin’ for my Freedom: The Selma March for the west coast of Africa. and Voting Rights on view February 18 through March 24, 2016. To The family spent a year- celebrate the Selma March and offer teachers a tool for educating and-a-half crossing the At - young people about their civil rights history and the importance of lantic and exploring eight voting, Matt Herron, a noted civil rights photographer, has created West African countries. a special photographic exhibition of 30 black and white photo - Their book, The Voyage of graphs documenting the march and the struggle for the right to Aquarius (E.P.Dutton, vote. 1975) documents that Last year, 2015, marked the 50th anniversary of the Selma to quest. A recently published Montgomery march, the largest and most significant march in civil sequel, Our Big Blue rights history. This march led directly to the passage of the Voting Schoolhouse , recounts Rights Act of 1965. The Act mandated federal oversight of all US their passage down the counties with a history of voter discrimination against African Amer - West Coast of Africa in the icans and opened the door to voting for most Americans. words of their son, The opening reception will be Friday, February 19, from 5:30 Matthew, who was 13 at to 7:30 p.m., with an artist’s talk at 6:30 p.m. The reception is free the time. and open to the public. The gallery is open Monday through Friday In the ‘70s, Herron turned to writing and produced a series of At present, he directs Take Stock, a photographers’ picture agency, from 9 am to 3 pm when school is in session and other times by ap - major articles for Smithsonian magazine and other publications. and spends his spare time skiing, playing the double bass, and fly - pointment. The show is sponsored by Batch & Bingham, LLP; He also became involved in ecology action, serving as bridge offi - ing gliders in northern California and the Nevada desert. Phelps Dunbar, LLP; and Wynn and Bill Seeman. cer, navigator and photographer on two Greenpeace anti-whaling More examples of Herron’s work may be found at: Matt Herron has been a photojournalist since 1962, and his voyages, and a voyage to the ice floes of the St. Lawrence to protest www.takestockphotos.com . pictures have appeared in virtually every major picture magazine in the harp seal hunt. More recently, he curated a major exhibition: the world. Based in Mississippi in the early 1960s, he covered the This Light of Ours: Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Move - Anna Harris is the curator of the Gail Keenan Art Gallery Civil Rights struggle for Life, Look, Time, Newsweek , and the Satur - ment , which opened a new arts complex in Salt Lake City and is at Coast Episcopal School in Long Beach. day Evening Post , as well as providing pictures and support for the now traveling throughout the US. The University Press of Missis - Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). In 1964 he sippi published a companion book in 2012. A graduate of Prince - founded and directed the Southern Documentary Project, a team of ton, he is married and has two grown children and five five photographers who attempted to document the process of so - grandchildren. His work is in the permanent collections of the cial change in the South. His recent book, Mississippi Eyes recounts George Eastman House, the Schomburg Center for Research in the history of that time and displays photographs from that project. Black Culture, the High Museum, and the Smithsonian Institution.

8 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2016