THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF ALABAMA January/February 2016 • Vol. 101, No. 1

Photo by Donovan Marks, C. 2015 Washington National Cathedral 2 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese Time to apply for ECW Scholarships By: Pat Clanton ECW Scholarship Chairman very year the Alabama ECW Scholarship Commit- than one previous ECW scholarship. Each recipient of tee accepts applications for the College Scholarship this scholarship program can receive no more than $400. EProgram and the Women of the Well Program. To apply for this scholarship an applicant must complete The College Scholarship Program is open to any the application form and follow the instructions provided communicant in the diocese who meets the eligibility on the website. An application for this scholarship may be requirements based on need, church involvement, and submitted at any time. merit. The Women of the Well Scholarships is available to Additional information on the scholarship program is women, both lay and clergy, seeking spiritual refreshment. available online at: . Information on the application pro- The deadline for applications for the College Scholarship cess is available at: http://www.alabamaecw.org/#!/c1xu8. Program is April 30, 2016. Women of the Well applications These scholarships are made possible by generous do- may be submitted at any time. nors who have a passion for the education of our mem- Applicants for a college scholarship must be in good bers. If you or your parish would like to make a donation standing with the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of to the education of a young person in our diocesan family, Alabama; accepted or enrolled in an academic institution please consider making a gift to the ECW College Schol- of college rank; pursuing professional certification or a arship Fund. Contributions may be sent: ECW, Diocese degree from an accredited institution; able to show finan- of Alabama, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham 35203- cial need; and a recipient of no more than one previous 2611. Please note on your check ECW College Scholar- ECW scholarship. Last year, the committee awarded 11 ship Fund. scholarships representing nine parishes. cant of good standing with the Episcopal Church in the Questions should be directed to: Pat Clanton To be eligible for a Women of the Well Scholarship, an Diocese of Alabama; accepted or enrolled in a spiritual or Email [email protected] applicant may be lay or clergy and must be a communi- religious program or lecture; and a recipient of no more Cell (205)-559-4769 2016 United Thank Offering grant applications now available

pplications are now being accepted for 2016 United Thank Offering (UTO) grants. The United Thank Of- The focus for the 2016 grants is Mark Five of the Anglican Marks of Mis- fering will accept: Asion: To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the • grant applications for start- earth. up costs of a new ministry. “The United Thank Offering is continuing its tradition of thankfulness by awarding grants for 2016,” said Sandra K. Squires, Ed.D., United Thank Offering Board President. • one grant application per diocese within The Episcopal Church; Established by United Thank Offering, a ministry of The Episcopal Church to • one additional application for a companion grant from a diocese of The Episcopal promote thankfulness and mission in the whole Church, the purpose of the grants is Church may be submitted. This relationship may be formed with an aided diocese to provide start-up money for a new project that focuses on the Fifth Mark of Mission. from The Episcopal Church or with a diocese from The Anglican Communion. The The funds are not permitted for the continuation of ongoing ministries. sponsoring bishop with jurisdiction will be responsible for the accounting of the grant. The deadline for submitting an application is 5:00 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, March 4. For more information about guidelines and applications, contact Bea Strong, Dioc- Known worldwide as UTO, the United Thank Offering grants are awarded for proj- esan Coordinator for United Thank Offering, [email protected]. ects that address human needs and help alleviate poverty, both domestically and interna- The application forms, detailed guidelines, and a list of both eligible and not eligible tionally in The Episcopal Church. projects is available at: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/page/uto-grants

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH In the Diocese of Alabama In the United States The Anglican Communion About 34,000 baptized members in 92 parishes A community of about An 80-million-member and worshiping communities and 8 college 2.4 million members in 119 dioceses worldwide community of campus ministries. Established in 1830. in the Americas and abroad. Established 38 provinces. in 1789. Bishop Archbishop of Canterbury The Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan Presiding Bishop The Most Rev. Justin Welby Assistant Bishop The Most Rev. Michael Curry Lambeth Palace, London The Rt. Rev. Santosh K. Marray Episcopal Church Center England SE17JU Carpenter House 815 Second Avenue 521 North 20th Street New York, NY 10017 Birmingham, AL 35203 212/867-8400 205/715-2060 The Alabama Episcopalian is published 6 times per year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and Novem- The Alabama Episcopalian ber/December) by the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. Previous names for this publication include The Diocese of Alabama (1892), The Church Record Dave Drachlis, Editor (1893–1922), The Alabama Churchman (1923–1987), The Apostle (1988–1997 and 1999–2009), and The Alabama Apostle (1998). Periodicals rate Miles G. Parsons, Art Director postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama. Denise Servant, Circulation Secretary ON THE COVER All editorial submissions should be sent to Dave Drachlis at [email protected]. The deadline for each issue is the first day of the Volume 101, Number 1 month of publication. Students and residents of Crochu, Haiti welcome diocesan delega- January/February 2016 USPS 070-910 All address corrections or additions should be sent to Denise Servant at [email protected] or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, tion to St. Alban’s Church. Destroyed during the 2008 hurri- ISSN 1041-3316 Birmingham, AL 35203–2682. cane season the church was rebuilt with support from the Diocese of Alabama. Photo by Dave Drachlis POSTMASTER: Please send address corrections to Denise Servant, Circulation Secretary, The Alabama Episcopalian, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203–2682.

January/February 2016 From Bishop Sloan THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 3 Without a Trace of Vehemence how fortunate we all are to have this incredible dioc- there often is, a great deal of sound and fury being ex- esan staff serving our Lord in their various roles in the pressed by some people who agree vehemently, and by Diocese. All of them do incredible work and get along others who don’t, just as vehemently. So you might get while they’re doing it, which is a real blessing. I’m the impression that if you’re not vehement, you’ve got especially grateful for Santosh Marray, Rob Morpeth nothing to say. But maybe, I’m hoping, two or three and Sarah Sartain, and to my assistant Judy Hall, for not of you might hear me say, quite un-vehemently: “The just “holding the fort” but for continuing the work of Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not the Church. overcome it.” Darkness did not overcome the Light at the Crucifixion, did not overcome it in century after century of heresy and schism, has not overcome it in the struggles of The Episcopal Church, and will not “The light shines in the darkness, overcome it ever, so long as faithful people like you and the darkness and the darkness and me offer ourselves into the love and service of God through Jesus Christ our Lord, and hope and pray did not overcome it.” to do the right thing in the Name of Christ. The statement from the Primates’ Meeting is not a surprise; it’s a reaction to actions taken by our General The First Sunday after Christmas we read one of Convention in June of 2015. I think we did the right my favorite passages in the Bible, from John’s Prologue: thing by making a way for parishes to offer same sex “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Hello, friends He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without t’s been a while since my last column for The him not one thing came into being. What has Alabama Episcopalian – I’ve been off on a come into being in him was life, and the life three-month sabbatical from mid-August was the light of all people. The light shines I in the darkness, and the darkness did not to mid-November. I missed making my rounds overcome it.” As the writer of this Gospel from parish to parish and seeing all of you, but tells the story of the Incarnation, there’s no mention of shepherds or the babe laid in I really enjoyed having some time to regroup swaddling cloths – for John it’s the story of and rest, and having some time with the girl of the Word of God taking flesh to dwell among my dreams who has put up with a lot from me us as the life of the world and the light of God in all of us. for a long, long time. I also did some reading One of the striking things for me about The primates of the Anglican Communion meet at Canterbury Cathedral in England this passage is that John does not assure us and writing, which was therapeutic as well. January 11-15 that because the Word of God becomes human, I have to admit I sort of dreaded coming back to now everything’s going to be easy and convenient. marriage in The Episcopal Church, and I am proud work, not because I don’t love it but because I assumed Instead: “the light shines in the darkness;” the darkness of the way we’ve gone about it in the Diocese of there would be stacks and piles of issues and concerns is still there. The darkness is always there, and so, John Alabama. If I’m wrong about this, if The Episcopal to deal with, and lists of appointments deferred un- assures us, is the Light of Christ. Church is wrong about this, and this proves to be not til my return that would require me to go and fix or what God is leading us to do, I pray that we’ll have the smooth or adjust all sorts of things near and far. I was grace and humility to see that we’re wrong and take relieved and delighted (and maybe a little threatened) “John does not assure us that because another path. If it proves that this is the path that God to find that everything was a great shape – the staff is calling us to follow, I hope that others near and far here at Carpenter House had done exactly what they the Word of God becomes human, will have the grace and humility to join us. Either way, were supposed to do and dealt with the issues and con- now everything’s going to be easy I think we can trust God enough to put God’s Church cerns as they came, and things got fixed or smoothed in God’s hands. or adjusted because our parish leaders both lay and and convenient.” And either way, all the sound and fury, all the vehe- ordained had served the people in this part of God’s ment rhetoric and righteous indignation (and there’s Church in Alabama in faith and love – just like they plenty of it, from both extremes) does not help. And were before I went on sabbatical. either way, I repeat without a trace of vehemence, the I was relieved, but also a little threatened – in some Recently the Primates of the Anglican Commu- Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness will not dark part of our hearts we all want to think we’re ab- nion met to discuss concerns that threaten the unity of overcome it. solutely essential to whatever we’re doing, and that it’ll the Church. Their most notable action was to declare all fall apart without us. Now that it hasn’t, I realize that because of The Episcopal Church’s vote to offer again I am so fortunate to serve as your Bishop, and same sex marriage to people of the same sex, we are now considered to be in observer status. There is, as

January/February 2016 4 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN From Bishop Marray Second Chance

Second chance is a license to make mistakes, with the Kairos. It begs the question, “what’s God doing in your life, knowledge that God isn’t this angry judge ready to pounce church or community today in this moment in time?” If we on us whenever we do so. It’s more of an invitation to be accept this understanding eschatology is best lived out in the not afraid to take risks, walk the faith, and live in the zone of reality of today’s challenges and opportunities. Jesus’ words holy uncertainty. You can trust God always to be at the end are of prophetic proportions, “…….tomorrow will bring of the line waiting to catch you in case you fall, and if you worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” do, to restore your dignity. (Matthew 6:34) This may very well be one of the messages As we enter the New Year, second chance is a timely of hope for the community of faith in this time. There isn’t a reminder of how much life isn’t about surrender, rather it more appropriate time for the Church to see the neighbor- is about conquer. Even if to achieve it you may need to hood afresh with new lenses. Let’s see the new thing God is start over and exercise the fruit of the spirit in persever- actively doing in our backyard! ance. Second chance is all about believing that surrender Finally, we are richly blessed to be part of a church isn’t an option, and we should not feel embarrassed to start that embodies and practices second chance. Are you one of over, albeit for many, the guilt of pride gets in the way of the many whose life was in crisis and didn’t know where acknowledging the need to pursue second chance as integral to turn or go and the welcoming doors of the Episcopal to life’s complex journey. This need to access second chance Church stayed opened for you? Just ponder on the many is a redemptive action that could be best described as hum- broken relationships, and shattered lives this church has been bling and transformational. Humbling in terms of exercising instrumental in nurturing back to wholeness, and are now the gift of self-awareness; it takes a lot of courage to ac- experiencing new beginnings. This church is designed to see knowledge our faults and weaknesses. And even much more ike so many in our diocesan family, I have had to seek forgiveness and amendment of life; realizing things could be worse! Transformational in recognizing that some “The Episcopal Church is bold, and the opportunity to stay at “Miss Mary Lodge” of life’s most inspired learning and insights have come from Lon Miller Commons, Camp McDowell. I would the crucible of mistakes. For me, failure is the ‘holy grail’ to unabashed in proclaiming, and pro- be one of the first to confess to the warm experi- edification. However, the gift of God through patience and moting the dignity of every human ence you always come away with. perseverance gives the opportunity to go at it again, even prosper and do well by God. being irrespective of class, creed, cul- My beloved friend, you don’t have to be a literary genius For me, the other joy that greets you at “Miss Mary,” or technically savvy nerd to know that the possibility does ture, status and/or ethnicity.” are some succinct words inscribed on a photo hanging on exist for the best of us to get some things in life wrong on the wall of the left porch bedroom. The caption reads, “O the first attempt or even the second... This is speaks to the God of second chance here am I again”. Every time I read natural fallibility, and brokenness of human nature. How- the best in you, to walk alongside you on the patient journey these simple words I think of my mortality, and like brother ever, in a faith that exudes tolerance, and practices perse- of reconciliation and redemption. The Episcopal Church is Paul cry out, “Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue verance as two of its inspirational qualities, Christians are bold, and unabashed in proclaiming, and promoting the dig- me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through encouraged to see it as integral to faith formation. Yet, it all nity of every human being irrespective of class, creed, cul- Jesus Christ our Lord!” The fragility of the human condition resides in humility, and willingness to pursue second chance. ture, status and/or ethnicity. I see myself as a perfect example makes it forever in need of God’s mercy, compassion and We should not feel so overwhelmed, and/or estranged from to this TRUTH; a stranger who came among you, and has forgiveness. Although life is short in terms of relativity, we our past and/or present actions that we are numb to hear or experienced hospitality, grace and acceptance with much are mindful of God who is all pervasive, all compassionate, all feel the offer of a new beginning which awaits us. To think thanksgiving. As Christ’s ambassadors, we are the healing loving, all caring and more. Also, God is all forgiving always and act in that manner would certainly defeat the whole balm in an otherwise hurting world; the almost perfect per- prepared to give us a “start over,” “a complete makeover;” or purpose of faith that invites us to breathe in more and more sonification of second chance. as the GPS in my vehicle would so often remind me when I of God’s grace. We live and believe in a faith that doesn’t Fellow workers with Christ, let us commit afresh to go off track, “recalculating! recalculating!” This isn’t unusual constrain us to a God who makes unimaginable demands be agents of second chance, and vessels of righteousness for in so far as biblical narrative goes, because both the prophet that we are incapable of fulfilling. It is one that calls us to the mission of God. Christians are tough through perse- Isaiah and John the Divine (Revelation) speak of God doing feast on the love of our beloved Savior who came to “pitch verance, and resilient in fortitude who just don’t know the a “new thing” on behalf of his people. his tent” among us so that God’s love may permeate and word “quit,” because we look to the cross of the Savior who Second chance is a favorite term preachers use to articu- inhabit our dwelling. conquered where others surrendered. Let us continue to be late courage and confidence in the present, pointing to a Second chance is equally appropriate to individuals who those who turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones! forgiving God who focuses attention to the future with op- may have, through circumstances and family commitment, May God give you the grace to be broken bread, and timism and hope. The message of the prophet Ezekiel to the postponed or suppressed an age long innate desire. There poured out wine for the world! May this New Year bring people of Israel is still relevant for today, and clearly bears re- are so many persons out there that I have spoken with over you peace, prosperity, and good health as we live in the re- peating. Listen to the good prophet speaking for God, “for I the years who lament the fact of an unfulfilled dream, espe- newed hope for the Church whose Lord and architect is the have no pleasure in the death of anyone, turn then, and live!” cially, to a “higher vocation” they hope one day to pursue. one who conquered death, rose and ascended with words, (Ezekiel 18:32; 33:9) Moreover, the term second chance is This compelling desire has lingered in the deep recess of the “..and remember, I am with you always, to the end of the best understood when it is seen in light of continuum, as soul. Here is the good news; the opportunity may be now age.” (Matthew 28:20) May you know today how much you against numerical application. Jesus uses this style to address to follow that dream leaving the details of life to the marvel- are loved and cared for by him who came to be God’s love, his disciples on the question of “forgiveness,” “Not seven ous mystical working of the Holy Spirit. Ours is a call to Jesus the Chrsit! times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:22) respond in submission, obedience and faith, trusting in the One who bids us come to assemble the myriad complex de- tails in some cohesive linear way that ultimately make sense. “Second chance is a license to make Second chance beckons the church to think eschato- logically. Eschatology in academia is related to “end time”. mistakes…” However, I am more inclined to associate it with the ques- tion of “present time” or to be more theologically correct,

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 5

Diocese to hold convention in “God’s backyard” he Diocese of Alabama will gather at Camp Bishop Sloan is scheduled to address the conven- McDowell this year for its 185th annual con- tion during Saturday morning’s business session. The Tvention Feb 5 – 7. This will be first time the clergy spouse luncheon is also set for Saturday. The convention of the diocese has been held at camp. Rt. Rev. Santosh Marray, Alabama’s assistant bishop, “Camp McDowell has long been referred to as is scheduled to address the convention during the God’s backyard and it is surely the heart of the dio- afternoon business session. Special camp offerings, cese and common ground for us all, so it seems most additional workshops, and the convention gala round appropriate to hold our annual convention there,” out the day. said the Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan, diocesan bishop. The business of Convention will conclude on Completion of Bethany Village, with its large new Saturday afternoon, but we are invited and encour- multifunction Doug Carpenter Hall, made it possible aged to stay through Saturday night for more time to accommodate the nearly 500 delegates, alternates together as a Diocesan family. On Sunday morning and visitors who attend the annual gathering. there will be an opportunity for a morning silent The theme for convention is “Beloved.” “The Small Parishes, Sawyerville/Yellowhammer Literacy hike, breakfast, the closing Eucharist and lunch. greatest gift we have to share as Christians and as Program, Lifelong Formation/Church Next, Youth Brackett will preach at the closing Eucharist. Episcopalians is the assurance of the Gospel, that through Ministry Cohort Training Program, Emergent Church, Since this year the closing Eucharist will be Sunday, the incarnation, life, death and resurrection of our Lord Liturgy Innovations, Companion Diocese, Stewardship parishes are encouraged to lead an alternate form of Jesus Christ we are all invited into the love of God; we of Creation, Turning Point Ministries, and several Camp worship such as Morning Prayer in the absence of their are the Beloved of God” said Sloan. “The gift is given McDowell offerings. ordained leadership, or are invited come worship with to all, and our calling is to receive and open it, and bring Convention registration begins at 10:00 a.m. Friday, us at Camp McDowell. Service music will incorporate others to do so as well.” followed by two workshop sessions and lunch. The first original works for the diocesan family, and will include a The Rev. Tom Brackett, Officer for Church Planting business session will be convened at 1:00 p.m. and will ‘pop-up choir’ made up of delegates, spouses, alternates and Ministry Redevelopment at the Episcopal Church include a presentation by featured speaker. Caucus elec- and visitors. Center will be convention’s featured speaker. tions will follow the session. After dinner convention A youth retreat for young people in grades nine This year’s gathering will again feature a number of participants will be treated a Folk School Concert by 3 through 12, and the adults who work with them, will be workshops Friday morning, before convention is of- on a String, and the day will conclude with Compline. part of convention again this year. It will provide young ficially called to order and throughout the weekend. Resolution hearings, workshops and the second people an opportunity for community building and will Topics are to include: the Five Marks of Mission for business session follow breakfast Saturday morning. bring an important youth presence to the convention. Tom Brackett to be Join convention via convention keynote speaker social media & the web he Rev. Tom Brackett, an’t make it to convention this year? You can still be a part of the annual family the Episcopal Church gathering via social media and the web. TCenter’s Officer for C This year’s convention proceedings, including the bishops’ addresses, the Church Planting and Ministry guest speaker’s remarks, and convention reports, and everything in between will be Redevelopment, will be special webcast live via the diocesan website at: http://dioala.org/tv.html, and on YouTube. guest and featured speaker at this Video will also be available online following convention. year’s diocesan convention. You can join the conversation on Twitter using the convention hashtag: #dioalacon. Brackett has been passion- You can also follow the convention on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook. ate about lively communities com/dioala, on Instigram at https://www.instagram.com/episcopalalabama, and on of faith during his twenty- Periscope at https://www.periscope.tv/dioalanews. seven years of ordained life. Originally ordained as a Baptist, he worked with cell group min- istries in the 1980’s. Later, he explored liturgical renewal and culturally sensitive evangelism on other continents, including Korea and Japan. His undergraduate studies focused on new leadership models for the 21st century, as well as the power of storytell- ing and the use of metaphor to make sense of cultural shifts and organizational changes. He has led two church plants, twenty years apart and is quick to point out that he has learned from his failures (as well as his successes) in church planting and congrega- tional renewal. He has recently completed international certification as an executive coach and offers his gifts as a strategist and communicator via a coaching delivery style. Since his ordination, Brackett has studied the impact of post modernity on wor- ship and the arts, as well as on organizational development. He has revitalized a campus ministry, served as a rector in three very different parishes, led a turn-around process in a rural Maine ambulance service and served as the vicar of a diocesan homeless ministry in Asheville. He has consulted with diocesan leaders across the Episcopal Church in the areas of congregational redevelopment and new ministry development, as well as Fresh Expressions of ministry.

January/February 2016 6 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese

ALABAMA & HAITI Companions in Christ 2006-2016

The Diocese of Haiti presents plaques recognizing the Diocese of Alabama during a service Jan. 6 celebrating the nine year companionship between the two dioceses.

Joint Haitian/American teams work together to establish sustainable agriculture to improve nutrition and health. The Diocese of Alabama has worked with its partners in Haiti to help build, equip, and supply schools, and provide scholarships to educate students and teachers.

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 7 Alabama Delegation Visits Haiti, Celebrates Nine-Year Companionship

delegation from the Episcopal Diocese of Ala- The Rt. Rev. Zache Duracin, Haiti’s bishop, celebrated Holy Eucharist with Sloan. VanSlyke bama was in Haiti in December to celebrate read the Gospel in Creole, and Sloan preached. AAlabama’s more than nine-year companion Sloan emphasized that although, the official relationship with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti. Episcopal Church Center-sanctioned compan- ionship has ended, the relationship between the people and parishes in Alabama and Haiti has The Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan, Alabama’s bishop; the Rev. not. Deacon CJ Van Slyke, Companion Diocese Commission “There will be people from parishes and all chair; the Rev. Deacon Judy Quick, the Episcopal Relief & over the diocese of Alabama who will continue Development coordinator for the diocese, the Rev. Deacon to come to Haiti to give what we can give, and Dave Drachlis, former commission chair; and commission to receive what you give us,” Sloan told the as- sembled congregation. “In a good relationship it goes both ways, and our lives are richer because of you. Alabama’s companion relationship has been focused with Father Fritz Valdema, “We speak different priest-in-charge of the multi-church parish of St. Simeon, and his wife Carmel, languages, our skin is a public health nurse. different colors; there is much that makes us dif- The group also visited the permanent home of the ferent,” said Sloan. “But your father Lespwa Timoun (Hope for the Children) nutrition and in heaven is our father in heaven medical clinic in Croix des Bouquets. The clinic is operated and so we are sisters and broth- by the Valdemas. The Diocese of Alabama has been instru- ers – sisters and brothers in Christ mental in construction of the facility and in supporting the because we all have the same father. work of the clinic. We are brothers and sisters whether The Alabama group carried with it some 350 pounds we like it or not - but we choose to of supplies for schools operated by the Episcopal Church be friends.” in Haiti, and birthing kits for a midwife program initiated Sloan thanked those in atten- by the Valdemas and the Diocese of Alabama in the Crochu dance for their hospitality to the area. teams who visited from Alabama, Although the commission established to facilitate the thanked Bishop Duracin for his companionship with Haiti has been dissolved, former com- leadership in a difficult time, and mission chair Van Slyke, will serve as a point of contact to thanked Per Val and Carmel for assist parishes and individuals continuing to work with the their hard work. Referring to the devastating hurricanes of 2008, and the massive earthquake of 2010, Sloan concluded by say- ing, “After unspeakable An inaugural visit by members of Alabama’s Companion Diocese Commission in October 2006 launches a nine-year journey of faith, hope, and love. tragedy, the people of Haiti sing, and we sing with you, brothers and sisters. The Lord bless you and keep you, this day member Mike Hubbard, traveled to Port au Prince Dec. 4 and evermore.” for the weekend celebration. As the service concluded Bishop Duracin A special service at St. Simeon Parish in Croix des and Father Valdema presented the delegation Bouquets on Sunday, Dec. 6, marked the conclusion of the plaques commemorating the relationship. A formal companion relationship between the two dioceses. reception and meal followed the service. St. Simeon Parish, which included several geographi- While in Haiti, the delegation also visited Visiting Alabama team members participate in worship services with cally separated churches served by Priest-in-Charge Father two recently completed projects supported by their friends in Haiti. Fritz Valdema and his wife Carmel, has been the focus of the diocese. the multi-year relationship. Parishioners from St. Alban’s Saturday, some 200 students, teachers and community Lespwa Timoun nutrition and medical clinic, and the mid- Church in Crochu, St. Sacrament in Fond Parisian, St. members, welcomed Alabama’s delegation to the new wife program and sustainable farming efforts in the Crochu Mark’s in Lilavois, joined parishioners from St. Simeon to church and school the diocese helped build in remote area. Maggie Johnston remains the point of contact for the fill a classroom-turned-worship-space on the second floor mountain community of Crochu-Bouzi. The children sang, Krik Krak school lunch program. Van Slyke can be reached of the St. Simeon kindergarten building. The St. Simeon and Sloan blessed a chalice and ciborium gifted to by the by email at: [email protected]. Johnson can be Church building was undergoing expansion. Alabama diocese. reached by email at: [email protected].

January/February 2016 8 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese

“Love is the theme, eternal theme…” – A Haiti reflection by the Rev. Deacon Judy Quick

First class of midwives graduate from training program supported by Diocese of Alabama. t our closing Eucharist to honor our al- The road up the mountain to the remote village of the devotion of the clergy spouses, the Krik Krak lunch Crochu exemplifies the life of our friends in Haiti. The program, sustainable agriculture, cisterns, and latrines have most decade of friendship and partnership path is rocky, bumpy, treacherous, full of obstacles, road- helped this community thrive. Awith the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti, Bishop blocks, and the unexpected. The need is overwhelming throughout Haiti, but little Zache Duracin lauded our works of love and unity But each time I visit Haiti, I am humbled by the in- by little, lives have improved. Children get better nutrition domitable spirit of the Haitian people, a spirit of joy and a thanks to Carmel Valdema’s Nutrition Programs. Babies in Jesus Christ. profound love of Jesus. now live, thanks to Carmel’s midwife training program. Thanks to this amazing love, God’s kingdom has Slowly, sustainable agriculture with gardens, orchards, There have been so many works from individuals grown in Croix des Bouquets. Two missions have and goats ensure a food supply. The Lespwa Timoun and parishes in the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama shared become parishes with their own priest. When Père Val Clinic is remarkable and will serve hundreds of families in with our friends in Haiti. The volume of work is remark- arrived thirteen years ago at Saint Simeon parish, there need. St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands is to be commended able, especially after the earthquake – new churches, new were 23 worshippers. Now hundreds worship there, for their commitment to Lespwa Timoun and their lead- schools, wells, latrines, clinics, health programs (HIV a new church building is under construction, and the ership as the new Clinic becomes a 501(c)3 entity. screening/nutrition/midwife training), lunch for chil- kindergarten is thriving with new classrooms and a new Lespwa Timoun – The Hope for the Children – is dren in Crochu, educating future professionals (school playground. indeed the hope for the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti. administrators/nurses). Bishop Duracin joked that the new St. Alban’s Church The Diocese of Alabama should be proud of our part- But as the Rev. Deacon CJ VanSlyke said in her in Crochu, destroyed by natural disasters and rebuilt with nership to help the region of Croix des Bouquets begin remarks to the congregation at Saint Simeon parish, the the help of a UTO grant submitted by the Diocese of to flourish. Although the formal companion relation- buildings are necessary, but most importantly, we have Alabama, was finished before Trinity Cathedral in Port- ship has ended, our friendships continue. Several parishes shared love and friendship. au-Prince, which was destroyed in the 2010 earthquake! throughout the diocese have long-term relationships and Alabama Bishop Kee Sloan offered the same mes- In this remote mountain village, a gorgeous church ties to Croix des Bouquets and will continue to work sage to all he met in Haiti. We may look different and is filled with worshippers and the school has 200 stu- with Père Val and Carmel. speak different languages, but we are one in Christ, we are dents, with plans to grow to 600 students. Thanks to Love is the theme, eternal theme. brothers and sisters with the same father.

St. Simeon Church in Croix des Bouquets undergoes enlargement with support from Diocese of Alabama parishes. Clergy spouses visit Haiti in 2009 to investigate potential joint ministries. The spouses subsequently establish Krik? Krak! program to provide hot meals to more than 200 students at the Episcopal school in the impoverished mountain community of Crochu.

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 9

Alabama helped fight the post 2010 earthquake Cholera outbreak by providing water purification chemicals and medications, and supporting prevention education classes.

Team from St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands helps lay foundation for permanent home for Lespwa Timoun (Hope for the Children) Nutrition & Medical Malnourished children await treatment during nutrition clinic supported by Clinic in Croix des Bouquets. the Diocese of Alabama.

Rice and beans are repacked for transport up the mountain to Crochu. Joint medical team treats pregnant woman in distress and delivers a Parents attend nutrition education supported by the Diocese of Alabama. Alabama teams delivered food to two hard hit communities healthy baby during mission to mountain village. Dioceses subsequently following 2008 hurricanes. establish midwife training.

At the request of Haiti’s bishop, Alabama team provides medical care for earthquake refugees at tent city in Port au Prince in February 2010. Alabama medical teams return seven times during the following 12 months.

January/February 2016 10 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese

Joint Haitian/Alabama team builds school benches in October 2007 during the first of numerous construction missions from the Diocese supports multiple drinking water, and sanitation projects by drilling diocese to help build and equip schools & churches. and equipping wells, helping fund purification systems, and building latrines, to help improve health and quality of life.

Clergy spouses inaugurate Krik? Krak! school lunch program in October Diocese of Alabama medical teams join with Haitian medical personnel to provide healthcare in poor communities. 2010 with one hot meal a week. Program quickly expands The diocese fielded more than 30 medical missions during during its nine-year companion relationship. to three meals a week. St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Crochu, Haiti

Tiny St. Alban’s Church in 2006. Pere Val hopes to build a larger church A concrete slab is all that remains following devastating 2008 New church completed with support from the Diocese of Alabama provides to house the growing congregation. hurricane season. worship facilities for a 200-member congregation.

January/February 2016 McDowellJanuary/February 2016 Messenger Diocesan Convention at Your Camp and Conference Center By The Rev. Mark Johnston

Greetings from wonderful lodges, in Stough Lodge, or in Miller Commons. As a Camp McDowell, not-so-subtle reminder, the new Camp Store will be open so you can browse our tempting selection of tee am honored and shirts, sweat shirts, and other merchandise. The workshops at convention will include oppor- delighted that the tunities to learn more about our ministries at Camp IDiocesan Conven- McDowell. There will also be tours of Bethany and of tion is going to be our new teaching farm. Hikes on our beautiful cam- pus will be offered. A workshop will also detail what held at your camp and our finishing touches will be at Bethany as well as conference center! The how we intend to complete the Bethany Campaign. McDowell staff has been Yes, we are over 90% complete in our effort to fund Bethany and ready to finish it! planning the weekend One reason I believe that I have the best job in carefully for several months the whole world is that I have the honor of tak- with the staff of the Diocesan ing care of a spiritual home for the people of our Diocese. I think the convention will be like a home- office. It is common for us to have coming. It will be a time for us to do our business, more people at Camp McDowell than will attend but even more it will be a wonderful opportunity the convention, but this will be the largest single to enjoy living in Christian community. It will be a time to see old friends and a time to make new group to stay at McDowell for one purpose. friends, and to discern who God is calling us to be. I so look forward to being with all of you. Our primary meeting place will be Doug Carpenter Blessings and peace, Hall (lovingly known as “The Doug”). The Doug is the central meeting and dining hall for Bethany, the newest The Rev. Mark Johnston area of McDowell. It holds up to 600 people around tables and I think you will find it to be a beautiful and functional PS The Camp McDowell address now shows up facility. Many of you will also be staying in Bethany’s new on a google map!

McDowell Messenger • January/February 2016 1 Check out our updates online and join us on social media! Camp McDowell Offerings ALABAMA FOLK SCHOOL AT CAMP MCDOWELL From Scratch Summer Camp Schedule 2016 Fri, Feb 19, 2016 to Sun, Feb 21, 2016 Our annual From Scratch weekend is a workshop on Clear Creek designed for beginners. Ever wanted to learn an in- Primary I--May 27-29 ...... (entering 1st-3rd with parent) strument or art, but not sure where to start? This is the Junior High I--June 1-7 ...... (entering 6th and 7th) perfect workshop for you! Learn to play a new instrument or finally take up painting or Sophomore--June 10-18 ...... (entering 8th and 9th) blacksmithing as a hobby in a safe and secure environment. Middler--June 21-26 ...... (entering 5th and 6th) • BANJO FROM SCRATCH with HERB TROTMAN Elementary I--June 29-July 3 ...... (entering 3rd and 4th) • BLACKSMITHING FROM SCRATCH with RUSSELL Junior High 2--July 6-13 ...... (entering 7th and 8th) COLVIN Senior Camp--July 17-26 ...... (entering 10th-12th) • FIDDLE FROM SCRATCH with MICHAEL ISMERIO Elementary II--July 30-August 3 ...... (entering 4th and 5th) • GUITAR FROM SCRATCH with SUSIE COLEMAN Primary II--August 5-7 ...... (entering 1st-3rd with parent) • HARMONICA FROM SCRATCH with JAMIE FINLEY • HARMONY SINGING FROM SCRATCH with KATHY HINKLE & ANN WHITLEY Summer Camp Schedule 2016 • UKULELE FROM SCRATCH with NANCY & CHARLIE HARTNESS • WHATEVER IS LOVELY - AN INTRODUCTION TO OIL PAINTING with at Bethany Village DOROTHY DIXON Our Time grief camp--June 3-5 (entering 6th—8th For kids healing from loss; Words, Words, Words concurrent program for their adult caregivers.) Fri, Mar 18, 2016 to Sun, Mar 20, 2016 This weekend workshop is all about the written word. Enjoy the spring weather and im- Diocesan Homecoming--June 10-12 (All ages! Diocesan-wide weekend retreat.) merse yourself in the art of writing. • HAND MARBLING PAPER with PAT K. THOMAS Alabama Folk School • MENDING AND COLLECTING MEMORY - BOOK ARTS with DOUG Youth Workshop--June 14-17 (entering 5th—12th Classes in fiddle & guitar, BAULOS some experience helpful, pottery & indigo dye!) • SOUL TO STAGE: THE LIFE OF A SONG with LOUISA BRANSCOMB & Special Session--June 19-26 (Summer camp for adults with disabilities.) CLAIRE LYNCH

CREATE! June 28--July 1 (entering 9th & 10th—leadership development Bluegrass & Gee’s Bend through work projects & camp community!) Mon, Apr 18, 2016 to Thur, Apr 21, 2016 Bethany’s Kids I--July 12-15 (entering 4th-6th—inclusion summer camp for One of our most popular workshops is back with great Bluegrass music classes, Gee’s typical kids & kids with disabilities. “Camper Bend quilting and pottery. This 4-day workshop provides a truly immersive experience Buddies” program for 9th gr— HS grads.) with a fun and enthusiastic community of musicians and artist. • BANJO I with HERB TROTMAN Bethany’s Kids II--July 19-22 (entering 6th-8th—inclusion summer camp for • BANJO II with NEDD LUBERECKI typical kids & kids with disabilities. “Camper • FACES IN CLAY with SAM WILLIAMS Buddies” program for rising 9th—HS grads.) • FIDDLE I instructor TBD • FIDDLE II: JAMTASMAGORICAL FIDDLING with BECKY BULLER • GEE’S BEND QUILTING with MARY ANN PETTWAY & CHINA PETTWAY • GUITAR I instructor TBD Summer Camp registration is • GUITAR II with STEPHEN MOUGIN • MANDOLIN I with JASON BAILEY now open! • MANDOLIN II instructor TBD

FATHER/SON WEEKEND April 1-3, 2016 goats, chickens, pigs, and some very cute rabbits! For all combinations of fathers, sons, other relatives and special friends. Quality Faith-based discussion along with traditional camp activities (like hiking and boat- time in God’s backyard with folks you love. Recommended age is 1st grade and up. ing) will make this a truly memorable and holy time for you and yours. Quality time in God’s creation is a true gift. MOTHER/DAUGHTER WEEKEND April 15-17, 2016 For all combinations of mothers, daughters, other relatives and special friends. GROWING ROOTS July 10-12, 2016 Quality time in God’s backyard with folks you love. Recommended age is 1st grade Have you ever thought about what fun it would be to share a love of Nature with and up. your children? Ever wanted to teach your children more about where their food comes from? Want to take them picking berries and swimming in the creek? But FAMILY FARM CAMP April 22-24, 2016 you are not exactly sure how to make this happen... where can you make your dream Enjoy a family friendly experience of fun, food, and fellowship in Bethany Village come true? at Camp McDowell! All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend Family Farm Come to Camp McDowell for Growing Roots: Connecting Families to the to Table Camp to experience the beauty and bounty of God’s Backyard! Natural World! July 10-12, 2016 we will find the magic again in nature. We will do Our knowledgeable farm staff will guide you in planting, harvesting, and food all of these fun things and more! A STAYcation for the family that you will never preparation activities, as well as hands-on care of McDowell farm animals. We have forget!

2 January/February 2016 • McDowell Messenger Check out our updates online and join us on social media! More Than Bricks. Building Spiritual Muscle. by Danielle Dunbar ’ve played a lot of sports in my time: softball, soccer, volleyball, cheer- ever hosted a group at camp whether for the Alabama leading, and diving. I’m learning to play tennis and I’m a huge fan of Folk School or St. Stephen’s Iyoga. Whether it’s a team sport or an individual one, I find the competi- EYC, mine was made bigger. tion comes mostly from within. I don’t follow football or basketball closely I am grateful for the oppor- tunity that Bethany Village but I like to hear what the coaches have to say because it’s often applicable brings. It is certainly more to my own life, in the realm of athletics or otherwise. than bricks. It has helped me build my non-athletic Lately, the sports feedback I have read or heard has me making connections to the muscles that help me know Bethany campaign. For example, Clemson Head Coach Dabo Swinney said after the God more deeply. I imag- ACC championship game, “We're happy today, but we're not done yet. We have a lot of ine it is doing the same for football left to play, so we're going back to work this week." Looking back to see who others. I hope it has inspired else might have said something similar, former forward Sidney Ball of the UAB Blazers you to work similar muscles basketball team said, “Coach Anderson does a great job of reminding us at all times that and to make a pledge or we’re not done yet. We don’t want to be satisfied with what we’ve accomplished. We contribution today. Please want to keep moving...” see below for ways you can “Coach” Kee Sloan and “Quarterback” Mark Johnston have the same sense of participate. The game will urgency and competition within themselves and for the campaign. We aren’t finished be over soon. Don’t wait on yet with the Bethany Campaign. We are raising the remaining $1.8M. Coach Kee and the sidelines. Thank you! Quarterback Mark are reminding us all to “keep moving” and that we “have a lot of football left to play!” The fact is that expanding our beloved Camp McDowell is allow- • Purchase tickets to the Camp Out III held at Good People Brewery on Sat, Feb ing us to build spiritual muscle that we haven’t been fully exercising. 27, 2016 at 6:00 PM tickets starting at $36.87. Go to www.campmcdowell.com. Yes, we have been a loving Christian summer camp since 1923—before we even • Purchase one or more “The Way the World Could Be” books by Doug purchased the Winston County property in 1947. That in itself is a win. Along the way Carpenter for $20. All proceeds benefit Bethany at Camp McDowell. Contact we added environmental education so we could better care for God’s creation. That was Doug Carpenter, [email protected], for your copy. another victory. Today, because of the expansion of facilities at Bethany, we are able to • Make a gift of stock towards your existing pledge or extend your pledge with expand education—environmentally through the McDowell Farm School and artistical- an extra gift. Contact Danielle Dunbar at [email protected] or ly through the Alabama Folk School. We are also able to care for more individuals with 205.358.9234 for more information. special needs whether at Special Session, Bethany’s Kids, or at a parish retreat. • Fill out the pledge card on this page today or contact danielle@campmcdowell. The spiritual muscle for hospitality must be the heart because every time I have com to extend your pledge or make a pledge to Bethany at wonderful Camp McDowell.

Please add this to (my parish’s)______pledge total. EAST ALA- BAMA In support of Bethany Village at Camp McDowell, I/we intend to contribute a total of $______. Payment of this gift is to extend over ______(three to five) years, beginning in 20______. An initial payment of $______is enclosed and I/we prefer to remit the balance q annually, q quarterly, or q monthly. I understand that this statement represents neither a binding obligation on my part nor the part of my estate, and that contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent provided by law.

Full Name ______Address ______Phone______Email address______

Signature______

I prefer to receive statement information via q email or q traditional mail. Please make checks payable to Camp McDowell with Bethany Village in the memo line. Mail contributions to Danielle Dunbar: Carpenter House, 521 N. 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203

McDowell Messenger • January/February 2016 3 Check out our updates online and join us on social media!

4 January/February 2016 • McDowell Messenger Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 11

“Do What Matters” – Faith Formation for a New Age is theme for 2016 One Conference

“Do What Matters” – Faith Formation for a New Age is the theme for the 2016 One Conference The Transforming Encounter: Stories Matter – as scheduled for March 12 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal revealed in Scripture, the lives of Saints, as well those Church in Birmingham. around us, God breaks into the lives of persons of all Come learn how Christian disciples are formed ages and is revealed through these encounters. Lead- today, what sustains them through a lifetime, and how ers seek to align their faith formation efforts with the congregations can make a real difference. ways God is active in the faith community. The conference is for all church leaders: clergy, vestry, Christian formation leaders and teachers, youth The Congregation: Settings Matter – innovated ministers, adult formation leaders, and others. ways the congregation can become a catalyst for faith Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. The program formation in key settings: home/family/daily life, the begins at 9:00 a.m. and concludes at 4:00 p.m. digital/online world, and in the wider community. The cost per person is $25, which includes lunch Leaders learn to extend and expand their efforts be- and childcare. Parishes that register four people can yond gathered programs at church. bring a fifth attendee at no charge. Register online at http://bit.ly/1MqPHQz. The Plan: Do What Matters! – using the eight faith The conference will be led by Leif Kehrwald. formation processes, participants will engage in a Kehrwald has worked in family ministry and faith facilitated process of planning for effective, lifelong formation on the local, regional, and national levels faith formation. for more than thirty years. In May 2011 he became program coordinator for Vibrant Faith @ Home, a The Leaders: You Matter! – the training experience service of Vibrant Faith. He now serves as Vibrant concludes with a session exploring relational leader- Faith Training Services Coordinator. He travels ship designed to empower the community to nurture frequently throughout the country offering presenta- and tell their story. Leaders learn to integrate their tions and workshops on faith formation. Leif and his personal call to ministry with solid leadership skills. wife, Rene, have two young adult sons and live in Portland, Oregon For additional information about Vibrant Faith, Conference topics and take-aways include: visit their website at http://www.vibrantfaith.org. The Processes: The Research Matters – eight key faith For additioal information about the One Conference The Vision: Relationships Matter – a theological and formation processes anchored in the theological and email Kathy Graham, Lifelong Christian Formation ecclesial vision for genuinely relational formation in faith. ecclesial vision and support by recent research. Leaders Coordinator, at: [email protected]. Leaders come away with clear ideas for intentional, rela- seek to eliminate silos and integrate all aspects of congre- tional faith formation. gational life.

Trinity Clanton Renovates, Blesses Heflin House newly acquired house and property adjacent to Trinity Episcopal Church in Clanton has been renovated and was recently blessed for parish ministry. A The Heflin House, named for its former owners, now houses Trinity’s parish offices, library, public parlor, adult classroom and a rector’s apart- ment. The apartment allows the priest, who lives in Birmingham, to spend three consecutive days in Clanton and less time on the road. The blessing took place Sunday, Nov. 8. Ten members of the Heflin family were in attendance as the parish choir sang “We are Standing on Holy Ground, parishioners placed crosses in each room, and the priest and deacon blessed the rooms with baptismal water. The acquisition doubles the size of the parish property. Purchased at a cost of $110,000, the facility was renovated for an additional $15,000. Much of the work was accomplished by members of the parish during September and October. “This active partnership between diocese and parish made it possible for Trinity to Trinity received a $50,000 developmental grant from the Diocese of Alabama, and acquire the much needed additional space for both its current and long-term ministries,” the parish received of $60,000 loan from the Diocesan Revolving Loan Fund. said the Rev. Bill King, Trinity’s priest in charge.

January/February 2016 12 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese CALLING ALL PARISHES by Claire Cotten, Assistant Director for Development and Communications

ow’s the time to think about how your par- parish or small group. We love to share our story. When we make presentations, we offer the history ish, small group, or reunion group will be behind the ministry, facts and figures on the local com- Ninvolved with Sawyerville Day Camp (SDC) munity, the camp, and the literacy program, plus our in Summer 2016. latest documentaries highlighting Summer 2015. Even if your parish or small group is already committed to supporting SDC, we’d love to keep you up to date on You can give a financial gift, gather supplies, bring this important work by giving a presentation. and serve a meal, or write prayer partner letters. To schedule a presentation, or for additional infor- Need more information before you make a com- mation about any of these opportunities, please contact mitment to SDC? Let us give a presentation to your me at [email protected].

Sawyerville is looking for a “few” good staff members by Crystal Jones, Assistant Director for Staffing and Logistics

e are looking for a “few” good staff members present when you fill out this application and that person information please contact me at [email protected]. Staff -- really hundreds of them! There is still time needs to fill out the parental release portion and give selections will be made mid-March and applicants will be Wto apply to be on the Sawyerville Day Camp permission since this is a youth event of the Episcopal notified at the end of March so there is plenty of time to (SDC) staff. It is the best volunteer position around. Diocese of Alabama. plan your summer schedule. Join us down in Greensboro, Alabama this sum- We hope that you will take a few moments to com- The staff applications can be found online on our mer to be on staff at Sawyerville Day Camp. Why? The plete the application and prayerfully answer some ques- website, www.sawyervilledaycamp.org and under the Sawyerville Day Camp is a unique opportunity to serve tions. Due to the number of applicants and the quality of homepage or ‘Get Involved’. and share in God’s love. This is your chance to form new the program we like to run for the community of Hale relationships and reconnect with old friends in a fun- County, this will be a true ap- filled Christian community. It is a chance to practice plication process, so please take service-learning as well as learn more about a special your time with the answers and place in our diocese. trust us to discern what’s best for Pray without ceasing Please visit our website, www.sawyervilledaycamp.org, the camp and all volunteers. So and apply to be a volunteer staff member at one of our come and share your time and by Linda Kennedy, Volunteer Prayer Partner Coordinator camp sessions this summer. You need to be 16 years old talent as a SDC camp counselor. hat better way to start the New Year than by joining the 2016 Sawyerville (there is no maximum age!) by Sept. 1, 2016 and will- It is an amazing experience! prayer partner team? ing to volunteer your time for at least one full session. If The deadline to apply for W As one of our staff members has said, “Being a prayer partner allows you are age 16 to 18, you must have a parent or guardian staff is March 11. For more you to offer encouragement, a moment of humor, or a small act of kindness to a staff member who has given up a week of vacation to work and work hard. As you are writing those letters - you find yourself reflecting…and then you realize you don’t have to be at camp to experience the joy and magic of Sawyerville.“ Being a prayer partner is as much a gift to the writer as it is to the staff member who will receive your letter. Do it! It’s easy. Just send an email to me at [email protected] to sign up. It may be one of the easiest and most rewarding things you do in 2016. Visit the Sawyerville website at www.sawyervilledaycamp.org, for more information. Get paid to do SDC all summer Intern application deadline extended by Crystal Jones, Assistant Director for Staffing and Logisitics

o you want to spend your whole summer at Sawyerville Day Camp (SDC)? If you are 19 or older, you can apply to be an intern with us. This is a paid Dinternship with housing provided (both in Birmingham and Greensboro). It is a wonderful experience and we have room for 10 paid interns. You can lead a specific camp (Lower, Middler, Upper), work on Communications and Social Media, regis- ter campers, or work alongside the assistant director for staff. There is something for everyone. More information and a link to the application on the Sawyerville website at: www.sawyervilledaycamp.org We have extended the deadline to apply for an intern position until to Feb. 10 so please visit our website, and consider applying. Contact me at [email protected] with questions.

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 13 Thank you Food, glorious food Thank you to everyone that made a donation in honor of a loved one this Christmas season. Because of by Evelyn Pritchard, Volunteer Meals Coordinator your support of this Christmas honor card campaign, we raised $4,450 for the 2016 camp and its programs. elp us feed the masses! Each year we look for volunteers to come down to Greensboro to feed our won- Special thanks to Jamie Plott, our Christmas card derful and hungry volunteer staff. This year we will need at least 24 dinners, 6 lunches and 3 breakfasts elf, without whom none of this would be possible. She Hprovided for the staff. sends out hundreds of cards each year to your loved If you are interested in helping out in this way please contact me at [email protected] or 205-529-0863 for ones around the country. And special thanks to Amanda more information. Ennis for designing the 2015 Christmas card. This is a great opportunity for members of a Bible study group, youth group, Cursillo reunion group or out- Look for them again Thanksgiving 2016! reach committee to do together. There are lots of options and we provide plenty of direction. It is also a wonderful opportunity to visit this special place and ministry. The staff always looks forward to these meals. The Sawyerville Staff Thank you for your continued support. Yellowhammer Project: It’s back and better than ever by Andrew Cotten, Chair of the YLP Design Team

t has been six months since we taught our rising fifth-grade students to join us next summer as well. Yes, you heard final class during last summer’s Yellowham- me correctly; we are doubling our Imer Literacy Project (YLP), but even though staff and student body! The second we have packed up all our books, closed up shop major change for next summer is that we have decided to extend the at the Greensboro Boys and Girls Club, and fi- number of weeks from three to four. nalized our data, we have not stopped work- At the end of last summer’s program, ing to make the best summer reading program we were thrilled by the growth we saw and the data we collected, but that our friends in Greensboro deserve. In fact, somewhere in the back of every- as soon as everyone on the design team took one’s mind, we were all wondering, are currently planning the academic curriculum and a quick breather, we were back to the drawing “What if our program was longer?” Well, when you put enrichment opportunities, I can tell you-- if only a board to plan for the summer of 2016. questions like that next to the question, “What’s best quarter of the ideas they proposed end up happening, for kids?” you can’t help but answer the call. this will be the best summer program I have ever seen. Apart from those two changes, we have a fresh Lastly, the design team is making headway on all the During our first YLP design team meeting after group of curriculum team members who are tasked logistical plans that need to be addressed and finalized, the end of last summer’s program, we made two major with writing next summer’s program. I have had the such as transportation, housing, staffing, and funding. decisions that will significantly impact this upcoming pleasure of sitting in on their meetings and watching In fact, I feel confident that with the team we have in summer’s program. First, after much prayer, reflection, great minds do great work. When you put together place, we will make this summer’s program run like a and discussion, we decided to invite the same group a group of eight educators who love kids, who are well-oiled machine. of students from last year’s program back for a second passionate about their content, who dare to dream, If you feel called to help serve this YLP in some summer. It was not our original intention to ask this and who feel the need to give back, something truly capacity or make a tax-deductible donation, please wonderful group back, but God has a funny way of extraordinary occurs. Recently, this group decided on visit our website: http://www.sawyervilledaycamp.org/ showing us the obvious when our own common sense two program themes for next summer: Superheroes yellowhammer-literacy-project.html fails us. Not only will we invite this group of rising and Exploration. Both themes will be the foundation sixth-grade students back, we are also inviting 25 new of two weeks of academics and enrichment. While we

January/February 2016 14 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese More than 200 campers & staff participate in 2015 Christmas Conference by Susan Oakes, Diocesan Youth Ministry Coordinator

ome 172 campers in grades 9-12 and 35 staff members and help us with music yet again. At participated in the 2015 Christmas Conference Dec. each conference he introduces himself S28 – 30 at Camp McDowell. by saying that he’s “here to help with the The theme for this conference centered around music”. What a humble introduction exploring the Episcopal faith in relation to other faiths, by someone as talented as Fran. He is and discovering what that faith meant to the individual. so good at connecting with the youth Our program director was The Rev. Daniel P. Strandlund, and he is always intentional about lifting associate priest at St. John’s Episcopal Church in everyone up as the leaders of the event. He is especially Montgomery, and he did a great job. gifted at involving the youth musicians. He mentors • “To me, being an Episcopalian means that I can Christmas Conference is the highlight of the season them, helps build their confidence, and pushes them to be myself and see other people be themselves for our youth and many college age adults who come to use their musical abilities in leadership It’s a beautiful and see everyone be accepted in the community. volunteer to staff the event. thing to watch the transformation take place in these I see a lot of my friends who are apart of other The Youth Department began planning Christmas young musicians. He is also a gift to our diocese. denominations, which they have strong faiths in Conference back in the summer and has been preparing The following are brief reflections by a few of our but, they don’t have the same spunk and accept- at the monthly meetings during the first semester of the Christmas Conference campers: ing personality that Episcopalians do.” -Abi Young (Senior) year. • Being an Episcopalian means loving everyone as Fran McKendree has served as our music director for God would, and being nice and sharing his love • “Being an Episcopalian to me means being sur- more than five years and we were so glad he could come and word.”- Ava Claire Mattox (Sophomore) rounded by people who will always accept me no matter what path I take, but also having a strong faith base.” - Margaret Neely (Sophomore) • “To me being an Episcopalian means being able to express my opinion without being judged.” - Hudson Dunbar (Freshman)

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 15

Three from Alabama attend the Province IV Youth Ministry Networking and Leadership Meeting

he Diocese of Alabama’s Youth Ministry Coordi- allow youth to expand their perspective and leadership things that were already present in our diocese, like nator Susan Oakes, and two youth representatives experience, as well as learn about the local area and host- our seat, voice, and vote (as a youth department) in Tattended the Province IV Youth Ministry Network- ing diocese. Each diocesan youth coordinator is invited Diocesan Council and Diocesan Convention. It made ing and Leadership Meeting hosted in Charleston by the to bring two youth to represent their diocese. me realize how privileged our youth is, and how Episcopal Church in South Carolina Dec. 3-6. The following are highlights of the meeting shared by much support is given to us by the adults. Representing the Diocese of Alabama’s youth were Alabama’s youth representatives: ~Mary Patton Sims, YD At-large Member Taylor McLemore, one of two Southern District Youth • Province IV was such a wonderful experience. It • It’s really cool meeting other youth from other dio- Department representatives, from Holy Comforter in was so cool to meet so many people that had such ceses. We discuss real issues in the Episcopal Church Montgomery; and Mary Patton Sims an At-large Youth a passion for God and their church. I loved learning relating to the youth. I am extremely blessed and Department member from St. Stephen’s in Birmingham. about the events that we have in common with other thankful that the diocese of Alabama allows the youth During the meeting, McLemore and Sims presented Dioceses and the things that they do differently that to have seat, voice, and vote. And I’m proud that our a report on the state of youth ministry in the Diocese we can bring back and use at our events. One of the diocese is doing so well and excited at the fact that of Alabama, in which they shared strengths of Alabama’s best moments of the weekend was when the youth we are offering a helping hand to other dioceses, like youth ministry program and offered ideas and support to were asked to discuss how the adults could help us the Central Gulf Coast with re-building their Hap- others in attendance. create a better future for our church. I was amazed pening ministry. Sixteen of the 20 Province IV dioceses were repre- to hear that many ideas that people brought up were ~Taylor McLemore, YD Southern District sented at this year’s meeting. The meeting is designed to

January/February 2016 16 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese

Diocese initiates pilot program to assist parish youth ministries by Susan Oakes, Diocesan Youth Ministry Coordinator

he Episcopal Diocese of Alabama has begun a pilot that is fruitful and sustainable; include up to twelve parishes. For further details about what initiative in partnership with Ministry Architects to • Equip laity and develop a strong volunteer team; the cohort involves and to see if it would be a good fit for assist parishes in developing effective, lasting youth your parish, contact me at, [email protected]. T • Incorporate youth into the life of the church and ministries. develop youth as leaders; Ministry Architects is the nation’s leading provider of youth ministry consulting. The organization partners • Build a strong culture of call within the youth with churches and youth ministers, working alongside key ministry; stakeholders—including clergy, youth ministers, parents, and • Expand or strengthen its youth ministry outreach students—to customize strategic plans for building successful efforts; and sustainable models of ministry. The initiative – officially • Develop a youth ministry administrative plan (bud- named the Youth Ministry Cohort Training Program -- is in geting, calendaring, youth database, etc.); response to dozens of parishes desiring assistance in develop- ing their youth ministry programs and we are seeing great • Equip leaders to lead meaningful youth gatherings results so far. and studies; The diocese has established an initial cohort group • Create a youth ministry discipleship plan according of leaders, from four parishes -- St. Timothy’s in Athens, to the scope and sequence set forth by the diocese; St. Thomas in Huntsville, Christ in Tuscaloosa, and Holy • Evaluate staffing (paid and volunteer). Apostles in Hoover. By gathering a cohort group, we are The cohort training program involves four, day-long able to reach more parishes at once to help them develop training meetings throughout the program year, along with their staff, volunteers, programming, and structures. The reading, program development task assignments, and two cohort training does not provide a one-size-fits-all approach, coaching calls between each meeting. This program is ideal but rather a shared learning experience that includes the fol- for those parishes that are primed and ready for growth, are lowing benefits: able to build a team of adults committed to working the • Deepen each team member’s understanding of process, and have leadership in place who support the work important youth ministry concepts and leadership of youth ministry. practices; This model is proven to work and our diocese is sup- • Develop vision and clarity for youth ministry in porting this effort by sponsoring a significant portion of the their parish as a whole; costs, making the program accessible for parishes of all sizes. • Develop a plan for whole-church youth ministry Another cohort group is currently being formed and will Registration opens for Young People Paint Birmingham t’s time to register for Young People Paint Birmingham (YPPB) 2016! I YPPB is a weeklong service event for youth in seventh, eighth, and ninth grades. While at YPPB, youth have the opportunity to work hands-on in some of Birmingham’s poorest neighborhoods, scraping and repaint- ing houses for people who are unable to do so themselves. Youth will discover how some- thing as simple as a fresh coat of paint can not only save families from eviction, but can also increase morale for these families and their communities. Participants learn how to volunteer in the spirit of servant ministry, and they have the chance to be the hands and feet of Christ to our hurting neighbors in Birmingham. Each day will include program and worship opportunities, and the youth will also have time to form connections with Episcopalians from around the Diocese of Alabama. Jr. High is the perfect age group to get plugged into diocesan events and to make friends that will last a lifetime. This year, YPPB will be held June 13-17, 2016. Youth will stay at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Birmingham and work in West End neighborhoods. The cost to attend is $225.00, and scholarships are available for those who need financial as- sistance. To register, please go to Dioala.org. Registration is under the Youth Ministries Summer Opportunities tab. Registration will be open through early May. This year, YPPB will be led by Tyree Shelton, youth minister at St. Stephen’s, Birmingham, and Emily Collette Linton, youth minister at St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands, Birmingham. For more information or answers to questions, please contact Tyree ([email protected], 205-967-8786) or Emily ([email protected], 205- 933-1140, ext. 112).

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 17 Diocese announces postulants for Holy Orders he Diocese of Alabama’s Commission on Ministry recently approved six postulants Polly Robb, a member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Huntsville. She is for Holy Orders. Five will study for the priesthood and one will study for the voca- scheduled enter a three year residential seminary in August 2016. Ttional diaconate. Randy Sellers, a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Birmingham. He is The six postulants are: scheduled to enter a three-year residential seminary in August 2016. Deanna Clogg, a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Decatur. She In addition, the commission previously approved three postulants to enter the priest- entered the priesthood track with the Alabama Iona Ministry School (AIMS) in Jan. 15, hood track with AIMS. They are: 2016. She was formerly in a similar program in the Diocese of Eastern Oregon. Paul Goldman, a member of St. Mark’s in Birmingham; Jay Gardner, former Jr. High Youth Associate, and a member of the Cathedral Mark Likos, a member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Vestavia. Church of the Advent in Birmingham. He is scheduled to enter seminary in August 2016 for one year of Anglican Studies. Pamela Long, a member of the Church of the Ascension in Montgomery Marilyn Lands, a member of the Church of the Nativity in Huntsville. She en- They also began their studies with AIMS Jan. 15. tered the diaconate track with the AIMS in Jan. 15. AIMS is a school for ministry that will train non-stipendiary and bi-vocational priests, vocational deacons and lay people who want to further their training in minis- Emily Collette Linton, Senior High School Youth Minister and member of St. try. The school uses the Iona Initiative, developed by the Diocese of Texas, as its basis. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands in Birmingham. She is scheduled to enter a three-year resi- The program normally runs one weekend a month for 10 months out of the year and dential seminary in August of 2017 after her husband completes graduate school. Her includes both practical sessions and academic ones in a classroom setting. sponsoring parish is the Church of the Nativity in Huntsville. Transitional deacons with Alabama ties ordained to the priesthood. ive transitional deacons with ties to the Episcopal she serves as associate priest. Hinkle was ordained to the where he is serving as a curacy fellow. McCarthy was Diocese of Alabama were recently ordained to the diaconate in May at the Cathedral Church of the Advent ordained deacon in June in the Diocese of Massachusetts FSacred Order of Priests, and, at press time, two more in Birmingham. at Emanuel Church in Boston. deacons were scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood in The Rev. Daniel Patrick Strandlund was ordained The Rev. Deacon Sarah Leanne Miller was January. to the priesthood Dec. 12 by Bishop Sloan at St. John’s scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood Jan 23, by the The Rev. John William Andrew Jenkins was Episcopal Church in Montgomery, where he serves as as- Rt. Rev. Scott Barker, bishop of the Diocese of Nebraska ordained to the priesthood Nov. 24, on behalf of the sociate rector. Strandlund was ordained to the diaconate at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Omaha. Miller was Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan, bishop of the Diocese of Alabama, in May at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Birmingham. ordained to the diaconate in July at St. John’s Episcopal by the Rt. Rev. Scott Benhase, Bishop of the Diocese The Rev. Emily Rowell Brown was ordained Church in Decatur. of Georgia. Jenkins was ordained at St. Paul’s Episcopal to the priesthood Dec. 12, by the Right Rev. Susan The Rev. Deacon Clare Hea Suk Seales was Church in Augusta, GA, where he is serving as assistant to Goff, Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of Virginia, at the scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood Jan. 31, the interim rector. Jenkins was ordained to the diaconate Church of the Holy Comforter in Vienna, VA. Brown by Bishop Sloan at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in in May at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Montgomery. was ordained to the diaconate in May at Christ Episcopal Auburn, where she is working with the leadership of the The Rev. Robin Hansen Hinkle was ordained to Church in Tuscaloosa. parish to strengthen the missional witness of the church the priesthood Dec. 9, by the Rt. Rev. Santosh Marray, The Rev. Stephen Joseph McCarthy was or- among its neighbors in the Korean community. Seales Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Alabama, at the dained to the priesthood Dec. 12 by Bishop Marray at was ordained to the diaconate at Holy Trinity in May. Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles in Hoover where the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham Episcopal Relief & Development: A Refuge by the Rev. Deacon Judy Quick “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present of communities in the United States and around the have transformed the way they encounter Jesus’ pres- help in trouble.” world. ence in all persons. Our prayer is that these Lenten (Psalm 46:1) This year Bishop Sloan has appointed the third meditations will deepen your faith in the risen Christ Sunday in Lent, Feb. 28, as Episcopal Relief & and strengthen your connection to our community that n this period of seem- Development Sunday, however each parish may choose walks together with others around the world. ingly constant disasters its own convenient time to honor Episcopal Relief Please order your Lenten materials early so that Iin our own country and & Development. Let us offer prayers and almsgiving you will receive them by Ash Wednesday, Feb. 10. global crises with refugees from to people around the world struggling with poverty, Meditation booklets will be available at Diocesan the Middle East and Central hunger, and disease, for those who seek refuge from the Convention. To place orders, contact the Episcopal America seeking refuge, let tragedies of their circumstances. Bulletin inserts are Media Center (EMC) at 1.866.937.2772, or http:// us remember that Episco- available for your use. episcopalmarketplace.org, or [email protected]. pal Relief & Development Written by a diverse community of Episcopal Editor’s Note: For more information or a presentation is ever-present, bringing the Church and Anglican Communion leaders and on the work of Episcopal Relief & Development, contact the love of Jesus, while serving the published by Forward Movement, the 2016 Lenten Rev. Deacon Judy Quick, Diocesan Coordinator, (jgquick@ immediate needs of those in Meditations booklet from Episcopal Relief & bellsouth.net; 205-669-6862) or Marilyn Lands at mari- trouble and guiding long-term Development centers on the spiritual practices of our [email protected] . You may also want to visit the website: recovery and self-sustainability contributors and how the meditations of their hearts www.episcopalrelief.org .

January/February 2016 18 • THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN Around Our Diocese

UPCOMING EVENTS

WELCOMING PRAYER – AN INTRODUCTORY WORKSHOP theabbeybham.com For additional information contact YOUNG ADULT RETREAT January 30, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Nativity, Huntsville The Abbey at (205) 703-9538. April 22-24, Camp McDowell This prayer workshop is about “letting go.” It is a Join us for a spiritual weekend retreat - “Prayer method of consenting to God’s Presence and action in ALTAR GUILD FESTIVAL in Daily Life: Solitude and Connection with God” - at our physical and emotional reactions to events and situ- February 27, St. Stephen’s Birmingham Camp McDowell for young adults ages 23 and older. This ations in daily life. Sue Miller is the presenter. Cost is The Diocesan Altar Guild Festival is scheduled for St. weekend, we will explore what prayer means and prac- $30.00. To register: Mail check, payable to “Contemplative Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Birmingham Feb. 27. For tice how we might Outreach Birmingham,” to Sue Miller, 109 Sharpsburg additional information contact Martha Noble, martha. actively participate Drive, Huntsville, AL 35803. For additional informa- [email protected]. in prayer through- tion, email Sue at: [email protected] or visit: www. out our daily lives. centeringprayeralabama.org AWAKENING TO TRANSFOR- Our spiritual direc- MATION THROUGH SOLITUDE tors will guide us THE ABBEY BREWS & KREWES SILENCE & STILLNESS through a journey March 5, Nativity, Huntsville of learning to listen Contemplative Outreach and talk to God in Birmingham will host Phileena an interactive and personal way. We will also have lots of Heuertz for this one-day an- free time on Saturday to hike, canoe and relax in the great nual conference. Participants outdoors. The event will begin Friday evening at 8pm and will be guided to deepen their will end Sunday after lunch. appreciation for the value of Additional information is on the Young Adult the Contemplative Prayer practice. She will share how Ministries website: http://dioala.org/ministries/young_ she has found for herself how wisdom is gained through adults.html solitude, silence and stillness. The conference combines Applications are online at: https://secure-q.net/ Centering Prayer practice, lecture and discussion. EventQ/Event/Info?OrgID=dioala&EventID=2387 Phileena and her husband, Chris have served the poor February 4, Avondale Brewery in the slums of Southeast Asia, South America and Africa Get ready for The Abbey’s one year Birthday party for almost 20 years. They discovered that Contemplative and Mardi Gras celebration at The Avondale Brewery Prayer is essential to grounding spirituality in the face Feb. 4 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. We will have fantastic of serving others. In 2012, Phileena and Chris decided food, drinks, and live music. Ticket, raffle and silent to establish the Gravity For additional information visit: auction sales benefit the mission of The Abbey: to of- http://bit.ly/1PjdI7C To register, fill out the form (at fer a safe and comfortable space where the traditions of http://bit.ly/1K2ZYfB) and mail to the address on the Christianity can be rediscovered and re-imagined. Tickets form. For questions regarding the conference: Call Gail can be purchased through The Abbey’s website: www. Green at 256-325-3151. Cost is $60.00 including lunch.

Barbara Crafton to lead April spiritual Holy Apostles retreat at Camp McDowell Hoover seeks by Monica Carlson The Rev. Barbara Cawthorne and abroad. part-time office Crafton is scheduled to lead a An award-winning author, spiritual retreat at Camp McDowell Crafton’s many books include collec- on April 15-17. tions of essays (The Sewing Room, Yes! manager An Episcopal priest and author, We’ll Gather at the River, Some Things Crafton heads The Geranium Farm, You Just Have to Live With), daily oly Apostles Episcopal Church is seeking a an institute for the promotion of spir- meditations (Let Us Bless the Lord, Vols part-time office manager. itual growth found online at http:// 1-4, Meditations on the Psalms, Finding H The staff position reports directly to the www.geraniumfarm.org/home.cfm. Time for Serenity), and poetry (Blessed Rector and coordinates efforts with the vestry, parish Crafton has served a number of Paradoxes), as well as books about the treasurer, bookkeeper and ministry leaders. The posi- churches, including historic Trinity wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in the tion is responsible for the management of all office Church, Wall Street, St. John’s-in- aftermath of the World Trade Center functions. The office manager is a resource position the-Village in Greenwich Village, and bombing (Mass in Time of War), about interacting with both members and non-members. St. Clement’s in Manhattan’s theatre how people of faith experience This is a salaried position requiring between district. She was a maritime chaplain depression (Jesus Wept: When Faith 20-25 hours per week for 50 weeks a year with two on the New York waterfront, served and Depression Meet) and about aging weeks paid vacation. Anticipated office hours are as a chaplain at Ground Zero after the (The Courage to Grow Old). Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 attack on the World Trade Center, and The Diocese of Alabama’s p.m. also served at St. James, the American Commission on Spirituality is spon- Applicants are asked to email resume and refer- church in Florence, Italy. A spiritual director, Crafton soring the retreat. Look for details in the coming weeks ences to: [email protected]. leads retreats and teaches throughout the United States at your church and online.

January/February 2016 Around Our Diocese THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN • 19

WHAT’S NEW/NOTEWORTHY AT THE EPISCOPAL BOOK STORE By Cindy Funderburk, Manager

Busy Bible – Jesus avenue towards deepening, strengthening and for some, Our Savior by Judy maybe birthing such a relationship. Lord Carey says, “he Starks (softbook) does not duck the tough questions … neither does he BISHOPS’ VISITATION 11 stories about offer simplistic solutions to the moral demands that come Jesus! - Children our way day after day. Instead, he reminds us why be- SCHEDULE will love arrang- ing a Christian is the most wonderful thing in the whole Tuesday, February 9 ing a puzzle scene, world.” 6:00 p.m. Bishop Marray St. Michael & All scroll writing, but- Angels, Milbrook toning, discovering Bread and Wine – items in a pocket, Readings for Lent Wednesday, February 10 and adjusting mov- and Easter by Plough 5:30 p.m. Bishop Sloan St. Wilfrid’s, able items to vary Publishing House Marion the scene while (paperback) manipulating the Though Easter Sunday, February 14 colorful pieces in this soft handcrafted book containing (like Christmas) is 10:00 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Michael’s, 11 Bible stories about Jesus. Each page features a scene often trivialized by Fayette from a different Bible story complete with a variety of the culture at large, it 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Matthias, manipulatives. Includes a story sheet and vinyl carrying is still the high point Tuscaloosa case. Ages 3+. (We also have the original Busy Bible.) of the religious cal- endar for us -- and Wednesday, February 17 People of the Passion – for most of them, 6:00 p.m. Bishop Sloan Canterbury Chapel, Tuscaloosa A Lenten Weekly Study there can be no by Cathy Randall (CSS Easter without Lent, Sunday, February 21 Publishing Company, the season that leads 10:30 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Thomas, paperback) up to it. Huntsville It is a simple theo- A time for 11:00 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Stephen’s, logical truth: We become self-denial, soul- Smith Station more like Jesus when searching, and spiritual preparation, Lent is traditionally we draw close to him. observed with daily reading and reflection. This collection Sunday, February 28 People of the Passion will satisfy the growing hunger for meaningful and acces- 10:00 a.m. Bishop Marray Christ Church, unpacks this tenet in a sible devotions. Culled from the wealth of twenty cen- Albertville powerful examination turies, the selections in Bread and Wine are ecumenical 10:00 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Matthew’s, of some of the main in scope, and represent the best classic and contemporary Seale characters of Jesus’ final Christian writers 6:00 p.m. Bishop Sloan Resurrection, days: Mary, Mother of Rainbow City Jesus; Mary Magdalene; Not by Bread Alone: Pilate; Nicodemus; Peter; Daily Reflections Sunday, March 6 and Judas. Throughout each chapter, Randall explores for Lent 2016 by 10:00 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. John’s Deaf our perceptions and our knowledge of these individuals, Mary DeTurris Church, pointing out how each played significant roles in expos- Poust (Liturgical Birmingham ing themes of faithfulness, gratitude, conflict, power, and Press, paperback) Sunday, March 20 betrayal. Not by 8:30 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Luke’s, Bread Alone offers Scottsboro Provoking Thoughts daily reflections 10:00 a.m. Bishop Sloan Ascension, – A Collection and meditations for Birmingham of Scriptures, the somber season Meditations and of Lent. In just Saturday, March 26 Prayers by Russell J. minutes per day, 7:00 p.m. Bishop Sloan St. Andrew’s, Levenson, Jr. (Insight these meditations Birmingham Press, paperback) can deepen your 8:30 p.m. Bishop Marray Grace, Woodlawn The ache of experience of the the human heart solemn season of Sunday, March 27 has always been prayer and penance and prepare you to participate more 10:00 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Paul’s, Selma to be made whole fully in the joy of the great Easter mystery. 10:30 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Peter’s, Talladega and the thrust of the Christian hope is that it can only The Book Store is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 come to that whole- a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) and Sunday from 8:15a.m. to 12:15 p.m. ness by being con- For information about these and other books, or to have the staff CLERGY NEWS nected in a personal research and special order a particular book, please contact the The Rev. Dr. Michael Rich has accepted a call to relationship with Episcopal Book Store, 2015 Sixth Avenue North, Birmingham, serve as rector of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in God, through Christ. AL 35203; 205-323- 2959; [email protected]; or visit Birmingham. He has been serving as priest in charge This book is intentionally written as perhaps one more the bookstore online at www. episcobooks.com. in discernment at St. Andrew’s for the past 24 months.

January/February 2016 THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN St. Mary’s Jasper Christmas meal ministry feeds 150 families t. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Jasper extended its weekly food ministry by providing Each meal consisted of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, gravy, stuffing mix, some 150 special meal packages to families in need this Christmas. cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, corn bread, cake, pears, macaroni & cheese, and a nine S During 2015, the parish provided weekly groceries to more than 2,000 people pound ham. Sons Groceries provided the hams to St. Mary’s at a discount. TJ Max through its food bank ministry. The majority of the recipients were from Walker and manager, Stephanie Franks, donated large, decorative, reusable bags that were used to Winston counties. package up the meal items. “We are thrilled to have been able to take our ministry a step further this Christmas Every year, St. Mary’s hosts a community Valentine’s Coffee & Luncheon to help by ensuring more people had a complete Christmas meal to help celebrate this special raise funds for the food bank ministry. The 2016 Valentine’s Luncheon is scheduled for day with their families,” said Ilona Jordan, who helps run St. Mary’s foodbank ministry. Feb.12. The parish welcomes donations from individuals and businesses throughout the “We are especially grateful to the businesses and members in the community that year. helped make this possible,” said Katie Rhodes, who spearheaded the Christmas effort. In 2015, St. Mary’s food bank ministry raised $8,500, of which $3,500 was used for “It says something about a community when so many are willing to step up to help our the Christmas meals. own.”

THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN The Alabama Episcopalian is published six times a year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and November/December). For the most current news about recent and upcoming events, please visit our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. Please send stories and photographs (color, if available) to Editor Dave Drachlis at [email protected] or 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203- 2682; the submission deadline for each issue is the 1st day of the month of publication. Postmaster, parishes, and individuals, please send all address changes or addi- tions to Circulation Secretary Denise Servant at [email protected] or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203–2682. Keep up with the latest news from around our diocese between issues of The Alabama Episcopalian on our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. If you are not already receiving our “Web Site Update,” you can sign up to receive a weekly e-mail containing headlines with links to the latest news, photos, and videos about and from around our diocese. Simply send an e-mail with your name and e-mail address to [email protected] and put “Headlines” on the subject line. You can “opt out” anytime.

January/February 2016