The Alabama Episcopalian T H E Ep I S C O P a L Di O C E S E O F Al a B a M a • Ja N U a Ry / Fe B R U a R Y 2013 • Vo L

The Alabama Episcopalian T h e Ep i s c o p a l Di o c e s e o f Al a b a m a • Ja n u a ry / Fe b r u a r y 2013 • Vo l . 98, No. 1

The Francis Millward Williams Window at St. John’s in Montgomery, Host Parish of Our 182nd Annual Diocesan Convention 2 • The Alabama Episcopalian Around Our Diocese

The Alabama Episcopalian January/February 2013 Continuing To Help Victims On the Cover Recover from Hurricane/ Superstorm Sandy By Diocesan Staff and Christine Turner, a Member of Trinity in Wetumpka

Staten Island on Sunday and went directly to the Staten Island VFW, where we off-loaded the cleaning supplies The Francis Millward Williams Window at St. John’s in and some blankets. This area was very close to the shore Montgomery was given in memory of a child who died and served as a relief center for locals to get needed at a very young age; photo by Andrew Garner supplies and hot food. “We also took some blankets and jackets into the city In T h i s Is s u e to Coney Island to a shelter that still did not have power. St. John’s in Montgomery is hosting our 182nd After we unloaded the supplies, we used our rental van Annual Diocesan Convention on February 22 and to help those at the relief center who were having a hard 23. The theme for this year and the next two annual time taking their supplies back to their temporary or conventions is “Invite, Inspire, Transform,” taken from permanent homes. One man pushed his fiancée to the the Standing Commission on Lifelong Formation. center in a shopping cart because her back was hurting. “Each year we will take a good look at these three “The resilience and strength of those we met on actions to which our faith calls us,” notes Bishop Sloan. Staten Island was amazing. Everyone was so grateful for “At our convention we come together to celebrate the supplies that were donated. They all seemed to still be the life and work of our diocese, to strengthen and in shock at what had happened to their area. This is the give thanks for work already done, and to hear the first such storm any of them had to deal with, but they challenges and possibilities before us.” For more about Jordan Whetstone of Grace Church in Anniston with Ken and Dyana are working this year’s convention, including the 2013 Proposed Washkevich and Katina Lee of Building on the Rock Church in very hard to Program and Budget and nominees for office, please see Manchester Township, Beckerville, New Jersey, with the shower trailer get things back pages 16-17. from our diocese set up and ready for use near Toms River, New Jersey; to normal, For the first time, our Youth Department is hosting photo by the Rev. Deacon David Whetstone and they a Diocesan Convention Youth Lock-in for are making Our diocese is continuing to reach out to help 9th-12th graders at the Ascension in Montgomery. progress. I was victims of Hurricane/Superstorm Sandy, which caused In addition to members of the Youth Department a bit surprised significant damage and loss of life as it swept through the representing the youth of our diocese, the lock-in at how Caribbean, headed north along the East Coast, and made participants will also spend some time at convention gracious they landfall in New Jersey on October 29. The Rev. Deacon to show how actively involved the youth are in our were. Even in David Whetstone, our diocesan disaster coordinator, diocese. For more about the lock-in and other upcoming their time of and his daughter, Jordan, delivered Alabama’s Disaster youth events, please see pages 6-7 or contact Youth trial, they went Response shower trailer to Manchester Township in Director Holly Bauer at [email protected] or our out of their New Jersey the week before Thanksgiving. The portable diocesan Youth Ministries Coordinator Susan Oakes at way to make us shower facility was set up at the Building on the [email protected]. feel welcome. Rock Church, which is being used to house survivors Our diocese is participating in ongoing efforts “I want to of Hurricane Sandy while their homes are being to help people recover from the devastation of thank every- refurbished. Building on the Rock is partnered with the Hurricane/Superstorm Sandy (please see the story and one who made Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey and other community photos on this page). We are also continuing to work donations agencies to provide post-storm relief and recovery alongside our sisters and brothers in Haiti in a wide and prayed Christine Turner with Michelle, one of the other assistance in the hard-hit Toms River area. variety of initiatives as part of our diocesan companion for us on our disaster response volunteers Christine Turner and Jonathan Simmons, parishioners relationship (please see pages 10-11). journey. A from Trinity in Wetumpka, worked with other Alabama The Camp McDowell staff is planning many special thanks organizations to collect and deliver supplies to Staten fun-filled events for the coming months, including to Trinity parishioners Gloria Johnston, Susan Powers, and Island. “We collected a pickup truck full of cleaning Folk School workshops, Father/Son Weekend, Kate and Kathy Saylor for helping man the donation site supplies and blankets from Trinity Church and also Mother/Daughter Weekend, and of course and helping me load my truck.” donations collected by Jonathan Simmons at his business Summer Camp and Special Session (please see Individuals and parishes who want to contribute to in Montgomery,” Christine reports. “We had dozens pages 8-9 for details). the ongoing recovery efforts are invited to make donations of blankets plus a wealth of cleaning supplies and some directly to Episcopal Relief and Development’s Hurricane coats. I drove to Birmingham to connect with the The Alabama Episcopalian Sandy Response Fund or our diocesan Disaster Relief volunteers from Tuscaloosa, and we loaded the trucks The Alabama Episcopalian is published six times a year Fund. Checks for Episcopal Relief and Development with approximately $200,000 worth of cleaning supplies, (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, should be made payable to the organization and mailed September/October, and November/December). For the most blankets, and canned food, as well as some medical to Episcopal Relief and Development, P.O. Box 7058, current news about recent and upcoming events, please visit supplies, cooking equipment, and a generator that were Merrifield, VA 22116-7058; checks for our diocesan our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. collected by volunteers from all over Alabama as well as Please send stories and photographs (color, if available) fund should be made payable to the Diocese of Alabama Atlanta and some cities in Tennessee. for The Alabama Episcopalian to Editor Norma McKittrick at with Hurricane Relief in the memo line, and mailed to “On Saturday, November 10, our group of four [email protected] or 2156 Kent Way, Birmingham, AL 35226. Carpenter House, 521 20th Street North, Birmingham, volunteers drove the trucks from Birmingham to The submission deadline for each issue is the 1st of the month AL 35203. prior to publication. Pennsylvania, where we stayed overnight. We drove into

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 From Bishop Sloan The Alabama Episcopalian • 3 Even at the Grave

The true light, which enlightens everyone, was com- The Word of God became flesh to ing into the world. show us how to live and that we Verses one through five are poetic—cosmic, theological, need not fear death, not for our- and transcendent—and ends with the honest recognition that life has darkness and that the central hope of all life is that selves, and not for those we love. At the Light of God shines in the darkness. Then in verse six it is suddenly pedestrian, everyday, ordinary: “There was a man Christmas we celebrate the birth of sent from God, whose name was John.” In a moment it goes Jesus, the Incarnation of God, the from magical to mundane, and I finally realized reading it at the Christmas Eve service that was exactly the writer’s intent, bridging and binding of the world of and really the whole meaning of Christmas, that the holy became human, that the extraordinary became common, that sin and darkness to the Heaven of the Word became flesh. Hello, friends: grace and the Light that still shines. The Word of God became flesh to show us how to live Many of you know that my sweet mother, Mary Bayer and that we need not fear death, not for ourselves, and not Sloan, died the week before Christmas. Thanks for all of your life and the hope of the resurrection. Surely if I really believe for those we love. At Christmas we celebrate the birth of calls and cards and e-mails—I really appreciate all of your that, surely if I really trust God as I say I do, this has to be a Jesus, the Incarnation of God, the bridging and binding of love and support. glorious time for Mom and for all those we love and see no Several have said that losing a loved one just before longer. In Epiphany we remember the Christmas makes the holidays less sweet, less joyful, or more Early in my time at St. Thomas’ in Huntsville, somebody difficult. There was some of that for me, but there was more. suggested that we read the Prologue to the Gospel of John stories about how the Christ was Christmas this year seemed a little less silly, a little less ori- at the Christmas Eve midnight service, after the postcom- ented toward Santa, Frosty, and Rudolph, and a little more munion prayer and before the blessing. Like many of the made known to be the Savior and heartfelt, a little more oriented toward not just Baby Jesus good things we did when I was there, at first I thought it but Jesus the Incarnation of God. Our friend Henry Parsley was a dumb idea—I figured surely by that point, well after Redeemer of Creation, and as the wrote that he was thinking Christmas this year would be midnight at the end of a long service, people should be ready Body of Christ in the world today “more soulful” for me, and I think he’s got it about right. to go home. But whoever was suggesting it persisted, and I This year’s Christmas for me was more about the heart of it agreed to try it. After everyone had taken communion, the we recognize our own call to continue rather than the trimmings and trappings. ushers turned the lights down, we sang “Silent Night” and I know I’m somewhat idealistic about these things: I still I read the beginning of John by candlelight. It was as if I’d to make Christ known, so that the believe that Christmas in its essence is a religious holiday. never heard the words before: Light of Christ still shines, not only All the relentless shopping frenzy is admittedly an odd way for us to go about it, but at the very heart of the Christmas In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was for us but also through us. Spirit, even beyond the reach of the advertising saturation, with God, and the Word was God. He was in the begin- is the pure and wonderful celebration that Jesus was born ning with God. All things came into being through him, in Bethlehem for God to become human, showing us the and without him not one thing came into being. What the world of sin and darkness to the Heaven of grace and the nature of divinity and potential of humanity. In the Incarna- has come into being in him was life, and the life was the Light that still shines. In Epiphany we remember the stories tion we are assured that God Almighty knows what it is like light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and about how the Christ was made known to be the Savior to be one of us, understanding our gifts and challenges, our the darkness did not overcome it. and Redeemer of Creation, and as the Body of Christ in the celebrations and our griefs. There was a man sent from God, whose name was world today we recognize our own call to continue to make I’ve never pretended to have all this stuff about God and John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that Christ known, so that the Light of Christ still shines, not faith all figured out, but I do believe what we say we believe. all might believe through him. He himself was not the only for us but also through us. A large part of what we say we believe has to do with eternal light, but he came to testify to the light. In all that we do, as individuals and as a Church, may we keep the Light before us, to show us the path we’re called to walk and the hope we’re called to share. In all the work of our Lord’s Church, in all of our committees and agendas and The Episcopal Church budgets and conventions, let us commit ourselves to shining 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 the Light of Christ. 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. A sweet woman lived her life in love, hope, and faith, not in 1789. without her own challenges and frustrations but never over- Bishop Archbishop of Canterbury The Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan Presiding Bishop The Most Rev. Rowan D. Williams come by them. She died the Tuesday before Christmas and Assistant Bishop The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori Lambeth Palace, London left this world for a larger, infinitely more wonderful life. And The Rt. Rev. Santosh K. Marray Episcopal Church Center England SE17JU Carpenter House 815 Second Avenue by the grace of God the ordinary everyday becomes holy. 521 North 20th Street New York, NY 10017 “For so did you ordain when you created me, saying, ‘You Birmingham, AL 35203 212/867-8400 205/715-2060 are dust, and to dust you shall return.’ All of us go down to The Alabama Episcopalian is published 6 times per year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and The Alabama Episcopalian the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia, November/December) by the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. Previous names for this publication include The Diocese of Alabama (1892), The Church Norma E. McKittrick, Editor Record (1893–1922), The Alabama Churchman (1923–1987), The Apostle (1988–1997 and 1999–2009), and The Alabama Apostle (1998). Periodicals rate alleluia, alleluia” (Book of Common Prayer, page 499). Miles G. Parsons, Art Director postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama. Denise Servant, Circulation Secretary All editorial submissions should be sent to Editor Norma McKittrick at [email protected] or 2156 Kent Way, Birmingham, AL 35226. The Volume 98, Number 1 deadline for each issue is the 1st of the month prior to publication. January/February 2013 USPS 070-910 All address corrections or additions should be sent to Denise Servant at [email protected] or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, ISSN 1041-3316 Birmingham, AL 35203–2682.

Postmaster: Please send address corrections to Denise Servant, Circulation Secretary, The Alabama Episcopalian, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203–2682. The Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan The 11th Bishop of Alabama

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 4 • The Alabama Episcopalian From Bishop Marray Our Times Are In Our Hands times in these words: “The times are troubled! The times we do have the capacity, endurance, and reserve within us are bad! This is what we humans say. But we are our times. to draw from to make it happen in many meaningful ways. If only we would live properly, our times would be good. Your times are in your hands, and only you can will the Such as we are, such are our times.” One of the scholars good you desire and maintain your integrity in the pro- who have done significant work on the writings of St. cess. You can do it by being rooted and grounded in God’s Augustine interprets this particular statement to mean that love, God’s trust, God’s humility, and God’s promise of a “the constant challenge of human life is to survive the new beginning that calls out to us from “an old rugged times of our lives. We are immortal. We shall live forever cross on a hill far away.” As the angel Gabriel reminded according to the fundamental core of Christian teach- Mary at the Annunciation, “nothing is impossible with ing on the resurrection. We shall live forever whether we God.” want to or not; but to truly survive our times now means On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, I was fortunate to to value our present times. It also means we must endure experience one the most worshipful and spiritually exhila- our bad times with as much hope and joy as we can. We rating moments since coming to this diocese. I confess all develop such endurance through the message of our faith of my episcopal visitations have been extremely precious that God still walks through this world, as mixed up and in their own special and unique ways. However, attending Christ Church in Fairfield was particularly special. If not for anything else but for the fact that I found myself on Your times are in your hands, and familiar ground to minister alongside the Rev. Gates Shaw As we enter into the New Year, now is a good time to in a community of God’s people who have nothing grand take stock of: What threads need to be severed? What loose only you can will the good you desire to look forward to given the overall scheme of things in ends need to be bound up? What broken relationships that vineyard. In that worshiping community were people need to be mended? This we need to do urgently if we are and maintain your integrity in the of all walks of life emerging from almost every conceivable to move forward into the challenges of the year 2013. process. You can do it by being rooted experience in life: addiction, recovering from one form of I come from a culture that “dreads” the thought of brokenness or another, poor, intellectuals, corporate man- the number “13.” Let me confess that I’m not in any way and grounded in God’s love, God’s agers, mental and physical disability, orphans, widows, and qualified to comment on the intricacies of numerology. other as eclectic as they come finding common fellowship However, by way of observation, it is amazing how this trust, God’s humility, and God’s on “holy ground” with one thought in mind: “to see the particular “superstition” has taken root in the universal promise of a new beginning that calls face of Jesus in each other.” psyche. The Australians generally view the number “87” as I am so proud and so should you to be in a diocese the “boogie” number because it’s 13 short of 100. I suspect out to us from “an old rugged cross that can embody this cadre of beloved brothers and sisters. that this particular superstition has made its way into the Let me encourage anyone just for one Sunday to join cultural milieu of Alabama and other parts in the national on a hill far away.” As the angel them in worship to witness this “pearl of great prize” that landscape. We know how debilitating this can feel. flies high the flag of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama in a Church people aren’t exempt from this either. Numer- Gabriel reminded Mary at the community where Jesus speaks to us from the “underside.” ous times in the various places I have served this question Annunciation, “nothing is impossible Fr. Gates and his people inspired me, and that experience I came up. Countless times I have had to console the “fear” confess made my Christmas. I left there knowing that the of my fellow Christians by reminding them that contrary with God.” Christ Child was certainly in that “stable.” to popular culture there is nothing dreadful or supersti- Let me share with you a thought for the New Year that tious about the number 13. was sent to me: For starters, it finds formidable resonance with the as troublesome as it may sometimes be.” No matter how Christian faith referring us to the time when Jesus walked good or bad our times may be now, the most important Just think, the Earth with his beloved disciples. There were 12 dis- fact is that we, as a Church, as a society, and as a nation are You’re not here by chance, but by God’s choosing. ciples (replicating the 12 tribes of Israel) plus Jesus, and, on the move with God. His hand formed you and made you into the if my math serves well, that means the “Master” of the One of the paradoxes of time is that as soon as we person you are. “Great Commission” was very calculated in his choice in- think we have finally found a stable life or have reached a He compares you to no one else—you are one of sofar as the image the corpus (body) of brave, courageous, “comfort zone” in life, everything changes. We do every- a kind. self-sacrificial, holy itinerant preachers was portrayed to thing we can to stay well, only to get sick. We do every- You lack nothing that his grace can’t give you. the communities, towns, villages, and cities. thing we can to hold onto our loved ones, only to have He has allowed you to be here at this time in The bottom line for Christians is that there is nothing them leave us in death. We do everything we can to hold history to fulfill his special purpose for this dreadful or superstitious about the number 13. So, beloved, onto that great job or great career through which we sup- generation. —Roy Lessin cheer up! If the Lord didn’t see anything wrong with it, port the family and have made our mark on society, only neither should we who are his beloved brothers and sisters. to be told one day that we are redundant or our services “To everything there is a season; and a time to every pur- Instead, what I would strongly encourage is for us to are no longer needed. Such change is part of life, but it pose under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). prepare ourselves this year to enter more fully into the call would be pleasant to find something on which we could of the Great Commission commanded by Jesus and pro- “anchor” our hopes. A blessed, happy, peaceable, harmonious, prosperous, and mulgated by the disciples through apostolic ministry. By The burden and blessing of being human is that we God-centered 2013! virtue of our baptism we are commissioned as disciples to are born with a longing to be more than we are, to fly far expand and extend the mission of God (mission Dei) in all above this Earth and reach the stars. Deep down, all of us areas of life. The time we have is invariably in God’s hand, desire to escape the narrow confines of our life and soar to and every moment is designed and controlled by his time something better. Although some may feel that their wings and will. We need to sever this thread of fear that debili- are either weak or have been clipped and hinder their The Rt. Rev. Santosh K. Marray tates and in many ways hinders us from enjoying the free- flight, we still need to realize that we must go beyond our- Assistant Bishop of Alabama dom of God’s promised protection and eternal blessing. selves to find such happiness. One of the messages I wish St. Augustine, the renowned African Christian Church to leave with you is that, although our dream of reaching Father of the 4th century, sums up the urgency of the the stars in this life may never be fulfilled in its fullness, yet

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 Around Our Diocese The Alabama Episcopalian • 5

Bishops’ Visitation Bishop Sloan Receives Schedule Honorary Degree By Diocesan Staff February 10, Sunday 10 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Stephen’s, The University of the South Huntsville School of Theology in Sewanee, Tennessee, honored Bishop Sloan February 12, Tuesday with a Doctor of Divinity degree 6:30 p.m. Bishop Sloan Epiphany, Leeds on Friday, January 18, during the Opening Convocation in All Saints’ February 17, Sunday Chapel for the university’s Easter se- 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan Holy Comforter, mester. The Rt. Rev. J. Neil Alexan- Gadsden der, dean of the School of Theology, 11 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Paul’s, read the citation expressing “grati- Greensboro tude for [John McKee Sloan’s] faithful service to the Episcopal Church, February 24, Sunday his devotion to his alma mater, and 10 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Mark’s, his generous and undefended heart.” Birmingham A native of Vicksburg, Mississippi, 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Joseph’s, Bishop Sloan received his bachelor Mentone of science degree in sociology from Mississippi State University in 1976 The Rt. Rev. John Howard, Bishop of Florida and Chancellor of the University of the South; the March 3, Sunday and his master of divinity degree Rt. Rev. Jacob W. Owensby, Bishop of Western Louisiana; Marilynne Robinson, professor of creative 10 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Michael’s, from the School of Theology at the writing at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and Pulitzer Prize winner; the Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan, Millbrook University of the South in 1981. Bishop of Alabama; Stan Brock, philanthropist and founder and president of Remote Area Medical; and Dr. John M. McCardell Jr., Vice Chancellor of the University of the South; photo by Mary Nell Sloan 10:30 a.m. Bishop Marray Christ Church, His previous service to the Church Fairfield includes calls to parishes in Mississippi and Alabama as curate, chaplain, and Bishop Sloan and his wife, Tina Brown Sloan, have two children. Their son, McKee, graduated from the University March 17, Sunday rector. He is an active participant in programs that support of the South in 2011, and their daughter, Mary Nell, is 10 a.m. Bishop Sloan Holy Comforter, people with mental and physical disabilities. In the national completing her freshman year at the University of Mon- Montgomery Church, he is a member of the standing commission for tevallo. 11 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Paul’s, liturgy and music. Carlowville

March 24, Sunday Archdeacon Louise Thibodaux 9:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan Grace, Sheffield 10 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Philip’s, Elected To National Board Ft. Payne By Diocesan Staff The Venerable Louise Thibodaux, our member board,” Lou notes. “I am looking March 30, Easter Vigil diocesan archdeacon, has been elected to serve forward to serving.” 7 p.m. Bishop Marray St. Andrew’s, on the Board of Directors of the Fund for the Lou was ordained to the diaconate in Birmingham Diaconate of the Episcopal Church. The fund November 2002. As archdeacon she oversees 7:15 p.m. Bishop Sloan Grace, Birmingham exists to assist working, retired, or disabled the work of the 39 deacons serving through- deacons who have insufficient funds to pay for out our diocese, providing continuing educa- March 31, Easter their needs. tion and support. She also serves as deacon at 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Peter’s, Talladega “It is quite an honor to join this nine- St. Thomas’ in Birmingham. 10:30 a.m. Bishop Marray St. Paul’s, Selma

April 7, Sunday 10 a.m. Bishop Marray Holy Trinity, Auburn Clergy News 6 p.m. Bishop Marray St. Dunstan’s, The Rev. Jeff Garner resigned as rector of St. Simon The Rev. Lee Lowery has accepted a call to serve at Auburn Peter in Pell City effective December 31, 2012. St. Paul’s in Albany, Georgia. His last Sunday as rector of April 14, Sunday Holy Spirit in Alabaster will be February 24. 10 a.m. Bishop Marray Ascension, Michael Goldsmith, who is completing his mas- Birmingham ter of divinity degree at the University of the South The Rev. Jayne Pool began serving as Priest in Charge 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan St. Michael and All in Sewanee, has received a call to serve as Transitional of St. Mark’s in Birmingham on February 3. Angels’, Anniston Deacon at the Resurrection in Rainbow City begin- The Rev. Frank Roth has announced his retirement. His 5 p.m. Bishop Sloan Messiah, Heflin ning June 1. After Michael is ordained to the priesthood last Sunday as rector of St. Mathias’ in Tuscaloosa will be 6 p.m. Bishop Marray Birmingham in December, he will begin serving as Priest in Charge Easter Sunday, March 31. in Discernment. Campus Ministries The Rev. Barry Vaughn has accepted a call to serve a The Rev. Ed Hunt resigned as rector of St. Andrew’s parish in Las Vegas, Nevada. He previously served as rector in Birmingham effective December 31, 2012. of St. Alban’s in Birmingham.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 6 • The Alabama Episcopalian For and About Youth Youth Ministry in Alabama From Our Diocesan Youth Department

Some of our diocesan youth ministers at a recent meeting: (front row) Anne Elizabeth Cowan, Loring Jones, Peggy Rupp, our diocese’s first youth coordinator, with Susan Oakes, Parker Garrett, Stratt Byars, Kristin Hanson, Murray Stuart, (back row) Kevin Yates, Stephen Palmer, the our diocese’s current youth ministries coordinator Rev. Geoff Evans (chaplain), Liz Williams, Allison Kendrick, Jen Manning, Worth Stuart, Shelly Hardin, the Rev. Matt Grunfeld, and Joel Blackstock The Episcopal Diocese of Alabama is known for its hosted at All Saint’s in Birmingham from 10 a.m. until ever Awakenings, a spirituality retreat for junior highs, strong youth ministry. We have a long-standing history of 3 p.m. March 7 and April 4. If you would like to be in- in October. The programs, activities, and worship were youth ministry with diocesan staff leadership going back cluded, please contact Susan Oakes at [email protected]. led mostly by high-school youth for this wonderful new as far as Peggy Rupp, who was our very first youth coor- Not only do the adults involved in youth ministry event hosted by our diocese, and they are becoming more dinator in the 1950s. She and Susan Oakes, our current play a significant role in the outstanding youth ministry involved with leadership roles at Winter Weekend, another diocesan youth ministries coordinator, met each other of our diocese, but the teenagers also make our ministry junior-high event hosted by Camp McDowell. recently at Camp McDowell and shared in their enthusi- thrive. Peer ministry is one of the best things we have Youth Ministry in Alabama is alive and well and asm for working with teenagers. going for us. We have an unbelievable number of high- continuing to grow. It is a wonderful network of teen- Currently a huge number of adults, too many to school leaders who give up their time on weekends to agers, adults, and the whole diocese that support us in count, are active in our parishes and serve as leaders at plan and facilitate youth events throughout the year. Our our growth and work. our Youth Department events. Youth ministry is not pos- high-school youth are the main leaders of Happening and Thanks be to God! sible without these loving, committed folks who give so Youth Department-sponsored events. We hosted our first- generously of their time, talents, and hearts. These adults join families in the important role of cultivating young people who will contribute to our community. Not only do these adults nurture the spirituality of our youth, but Calling All 9th-12th Graders! they also connect with them in other important ways. Sarah Reeves, Youth Department Southern District Representative They have fun with them, travel together, and share many meals. They serve as a pastoral presence in times of need, Diocesan Convention Youth Lock-in celebrate important moments with them, empower them Friday, February 22 (check-in at 7 p.m.)—Saturday, February 23 in becoming confident and effective leaders, help them At the Ascension in Montgomery develop skills and talents through mentoring and a variety Register online: http://dioala.org/ministries/youth_upcoming_events.html of workshop opportunities, and guide them at every Registration ends: February 14 teachable moment (often at unexpected moments). They Cost: $25 are the shepherds of the flock of youth who make up this For more information: contact Holly Bauer at [email protected] or Susan Oakes at [email protected] great diocese! We offer a time of learning and networking for our The Youth Department is excited to announce its first-ever Diocesan Convention Youth Lock-in! For many diocesan youth ministers (DYM) where we get to know years members of the Youth Department have represented the youth of our diocese at convention, but this year we each other better, support and learn from each other, want to involve the youth even more by hosting a lock-in the same weekend. What’s so awesome about this lock-in share the successes and challenges of our work, and learn is that it is a diocesan-wide event, and all youth in grades 9 through12 are invited to participate! to become better and better at what we do through Our diocesan convention will be held at St. John’s in Montgomery, and our youth lock-in will be close by at continuing education and personal development. Lunch Ascension. The youth will have some time to participate in the convention with the adults because this is such an is always provided and allows us some time for simple incredible opportunity to show them how involved the Episcopal youth of Alabama are! Not to mention that this fellowship. No matter if you are a full-time or part-time is also our chance to show our peers exactly what it means to be a part of this group of young people! paid youth minister or a volunteer youth advisor, all who The members of our Youth Department have been working hard to make this new event a possibility, and we work with youth are welcome to join our meetings. The would love for you to join us. As always, there will be plenty of games to be played, songs to be sung, and friends to remaining DYM meetings for this program year will be be made. We hope to see you there!

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 For and About Youth The Alabama Episcopalian • 7

Reflecting on the Province IV Network Meeting By Holly Bauer, Director of Youth Ministries at the Ascension in Montgomery Throughout my life I have been given amazing oppor- she made on my life, which led me to that moment. I rec- tunities to meet Episcopalians from all different geographi- ognized a large number of the diocesan coordinators, and I cal and theological locations. These Episcopalians, along was excited to get to know all the others as well as the youth with many others, have challenged me, encouraged me, and participants. taught me a breadth of lessons, ultimately leading me to my While I expected to have a lot of fun and even learn positions as Director of Youth Ministries at the Ascension in a lot, I was not expecting this trip to have such an impact Montgomery and an Adult Advisor to our diocesan Youth on my ministry. Sure, I knew that I would learn tons of Department. fun new games that I could use in my youth group and at Ward Taliaferro and Spencer Anglin (middle of second row) with youth All of the parish, district, diocesan, convocational, provin- diocesan events, but I didn’t expect to be moved to tears from other dioceses at the recent Province IV Network Meeting cial, national, and international events that I have taken part by the questions and responses the youth shared with the because it is something that is so close to my heart. I loved in have allowed me to grow as a Christian and a leader in group. Some topics we covered like “the most effective way how many of the people there wanted to come to Sawyer- some way or another. So it should be no surprise that I now to get the attention of a large group of teenagers” probably ville this summer to serve on staff. This meeting was a great encourage the young people of our diocese to participate in seemed menial when we were also discussing topics such as experience, and I took many things away from it. I am so these events as well. “what is going on in South Carolina and what is our role thankful to have been a part of it.” While I have continued my activity on parish, district, as the Church now?” and “how do we handle bullying?” “I spent most of the five-hour drive to Mississippi diocesan, national, and international levels, I have not been Truthfully, though, all of the topics were equally as impor- contemplating what I truly expected out of this weekend,” to a provincial event since 2006. Growing up in the Diocese tant to the group and meeting as a whole. I do not believe a recalls Ward Taliaferro, Youth Department Middle District Rep- of Georgia, I attended the Province IV Network Meeting single person left without learning something valuable that resentative. “I came in ready to stand up and give a speech three years in a row starting my sophomore year in high will positively impact her or his diocese and therefore our about the Diocese of Alabama, but I had no idea what would school. I got to travel to a couple of really fun places, Miami province. happen after I sat back down—I came there knowing almost and Camp Weed, as well as the opportunity to host the event I could not be more proud to serve our diocese and nothing, not even what to expect. When we arrived at the at my very own diocesan camp, Honey Creek. Having the Province IV. Christ is truly in the midst of us! camp, we were greeted by the most wonderful people from chance to return for a fourth year and in a new adult role Spencer Anglin, Youth Department Northern District Repre- all around the Southeast, all my age, and all just full of love. came as a huge surprise! I was so excited to see both familiar sentative, adds, “Going in to the Province IV Youth Network Everyone was so different, but then we found those things and new faces. Plus, I got to share this special event with two Meeting, I didn’t really know what to expect. It ended up that tie us all together—Happening, serving, mission work, of our very own youth, Ward Taliaferro and Spencer Anglin! being one of my favorite events that I have been to! Youth etc. Some insane dances and games got everyone involved in When the three of us arrived at the Gray Center at from all over the Southeast came to represent 20 different the activities—and even when the business meetings started, Camp Bratton Green in Clanton, Mississippi, we were im- dioceses. We each gave reports on what was going on in our the fun never stopped! Each diocese brought something new mediately greeted by the woman who previously served as diocese for youth, learned new games and energizers, shared to the table—an idea, game, blessing, ghost story, you name diocesan youth coordinator in Georgia when I was in high ideas for on future provincial events, and made many new it. A community was built there, one that will stand strong. school. It was such a wonderful reunion to not only see the friends from all over Province IV,” she notes. “My favorite I’m just more than blessed to have been there to bring woman who introduced me to the Episcopal Church on the part of the weekend was the number of people who were something new on behalf of the Diocese of Alabama,” Ward provincial and national level, but also show her the impact interested in Sawyerville after Ward and I gave our report emphasizes. Rites of Spring Retreat— Happening #62—March 1-3 at March 15-17 at Camp McDowell Grace Church in Anniston By A. G. Passey, Youth Department Member-at-Large By Logan Oakes, Rector for Happening #62 Rites of Spring, a spiritual retreat for 9th-12th graders, will Happening is a power- be taking place at Wonderful, Wonderful Camp McDowell on ful and unique spiritual March 15-17. This year’s theme, “Life to the Fullest,” will focus experience that is peer led on optimism in our faith—seeing the cup of life as half-full! We’ll for high-school students. explore how we live our lives to the fullest by knowing who we Through the fun, welcoming, are and what gifts we have, as well as how God fits into living and accepting community, our life to the fullest. With help from members of the Youth De- we can discover Christ in our partment, your friends, the Rev. Thomas Joyner (associate rector own lives and explore where of Holy Trinity in Auburn), and Corey Jones (youth director at we stand in our spirituality. In All Saints’ in Birmingham), we’ll begin to figure out “Who am I? my Happening experience, Where do I want to go? How do I get there?” I went from just knowing Rites of Spring also includes EYC Convention. The youth about God to actually knowing are given the opportunity to elect their leaders for next year’s Youth Department. This new Christ. This weekend retreat group will plan youth events and be responsible for representing the youth of our diocese. is a time for serious personal We hope eligible youth will prayerfully consider running! reflection, a chance to grow The balance of worship, leadership, and crazy-fun activities makes this Youth Depart- closer to God as a whole community, and a place to have unparalleled fun. ment-sponsored event such an enjoyable way to spend your Spring Break. We hope you’ll For more information about this event and scholarship assistance, please contact our join us for this year’s Rites of Spring! diocesan Youth Ministries Coordinator Susan Oakes at [email protected]. The cost is $40 For more information about this event and scholarship assistance, please contact our per person. Register online at http://dioala.org/ministries/youth_upcoming_events.html; diocesan Youth Ministries Coordinator Susan Oakes at [email protected]. The cost is $115 registration deadline is February 15. per person. Register online at http://dioala.org/ministries/youth_upcoming_events.html; registration deadline is March 7.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 8 • The Alabama Episcopalian Sawyerville Day Camp Ministry Sawyerville Day Camp, Celebrating 20 Years! By Crystal Jones, Staff Registrar/Coordinator

thrilled to have three sessions so (hopefully) we can ac- Everyone commodate all the youth and children who want to come who is 18 years to camp and avoid having a waiting list! old and older Want to be a part of this amazing experience? First, needs to have you need to be 16 years old by September 1 and be will- a background ing to volunteer your time for at least one full session. check com- Second, look for the online application at www.sawyer- pleted, and villeworkproject.org, take a few moments to complete it, depending on and prayerfully answer some questions. There is no fee as- the person’s sociated with staffing, just give of yourself and your time. role, needs to Not sure which session you want to work? Here have attended are the dates so you can choose the one that fits your our diocesan schedule: Safeguarding Claire DeBow, Margaret Blackerby, Jessica Harris, Emily Robins Session I—June 21-29 God’s Chil- Session II—July 5-13 dren training What better way to spend part of your summer than Session III – July 19-27 program. We at Sawyerville Day Camp? This special camp provides a Be sure to apply before the March 22nd staff applica- will help you Makayla Robinson, Delia Folk, Kenyatta Davis, unique opportunity to serve and share in God’s love— tion deadline. The Sawyerville staff selection team will do with all of that! and Leslie Taylor and it gives you a chance to form new relationships their best to place you in the session that works best for Please fill out the and reconnect with old friends in a fun-filled Christian you. application form online (www.sawyervilleworkproject. community. We need adult volunteers too! If you’ve ever volun- org) or contact me ([email protected]) or Leslie Sawyerville Day Camp has come such a long way in teered at Vacation Bible School or another program like Manning ([email protected]) directly to volunteer for the past 20 years, and to help kick off the next 20 years, it, we would love to have you help in our program rooms. these spots. For more info or to read more about what the we will be holding three camp sessions this summer! Now We also need some moms and dads to serve as Camp camp is like, please visit www.sawyervilleworkproject.org. you can meet even more campers and staff while build- Moms and Dads and as runners for the week, and we I am looking forward to spending another great year in ing long-lasting friendships with them in more than one need nurses (or any medical professionals) to tend to the Hale County at the Sawyerville Day Camp with you! session, if you feel so called. More importantly, we are campers and staff members for each session. Here We Go Again—Only More So! By Memily Colvin

Sawyerville Day Camp is celebrating its 20th year, — It means that 600-plus children from Hale County will Each year so many of you have offered prayers, sup- and our diocesan Sawyerville Commission has given be given a week of faith-based fun! plies, meals, and more for the staff and campers. We are much thought and prayer to the direction and future of — It means that 200-plus youth and adults from our dio- sure you will come through again—thank you! To find this important ministry. We have recognized the need to cese will be given a week of faith-based fun too. out what in particular is needed and how you can help, serve more children in the Black Belt area—a waiting list please visit our Sawyerville Day Camp display booth at for each of the two sessions this past year gave us a pretty That really is happy news! But wait— our diocesan convention in February, log on to www. good clue. And campers arriving hungry in the morning sawyervilleworkproject.org (you can also see great pic- was another obvious clue. —It means that we will need thousands of granola bars, tures of camp here), or e-mail me at sawyervillesupplies@ So . . . we have happy news. Sawyerville Day Camp is snacks, drinks, muffins, juice boxes . . . gmail.com (this is a new e-mail address). expanding to three—yes, you are reading it correctly— — It means we will need 600-plus bathing suits, towels, Thank you in advance for your continued support. Here three sessions for the summer of 2013! AND we are add- water bottles, backpacks . . . we go—only more so! ing breakfast!! —It also means that we will need more support from What does this mean? churches and individuals in our diocese. Music, Quilting, and Mosaics—What Fun! By Sarah Mills Nee, Director of the Alabama Folk School This April 15-18, the Linda Munoz will be teaching a glass mosa- Alabama Folk School at ics class in the style of Gee’s Bend quilting, Camp McDowell is of- as well. fering an exciting array of All of the music classes will focus on classes during our Bluegrass learning/honing your bluegrass skills. Sign & Gee’s Bend Workshop. up for banjo, guitar, or mandolin. Mary Ann and China Pettway, two talented quilters To learn more about this guaranteed- from Gee’s Bend, Alabama, will return to the folk school to-be-fun workshop or to register, please to offer skilled instruction in their unique style of quilt- visit our Web site, www.alfolkschool.com, or ing. There are still a few spots available in this class, but contact me at [email protected] they will fill quickly—sign up before they’re all gone! or 205/387-1806.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 Wonderful, Wonderful Camp McDowell The Alabama Episcopalian • 9 Think Summer! By Susanna Whitsett, Summer Camp Coordinator

Many Summer Camp sessions at Wonderful, Wonder- ful Camp McDowell fill up quickly! So if you haven’t already registered, be sure to register soon!! We encourage registering online to save both paper and time; just log on to www.campmcdowell.dioala.org. If you don’t have access to the Internet, please call me at 205/387-1806 for more information. June 25-29 July 26-August 1 May 24-26 Elementary 2 (4th and 5th graders) Junior High 2 (7th and 8th graders) Primary 1 (1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders with an adult) Director: The Rev. Jayne Pool of St. Mark’s in Directors: The Rev. Katie Nakamura-Rengers and the Director: The Rev. Tim Murphy of St. Mary’s in Jasper Birmingham Rev. Josiah Rengers of St. Luke’s in Birmingham

May 29-June 1 July 1-6 August 2-4 Elementary 1 (3rd and 4th graders) Special Session (adults with special needs) Primary 2 (1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders with an adult) Director: The Rev. Joe Gibbes of the Cathedral Church Directors: Bishop Sloan and the Rev. David Meginniss Director: Bishop Marray of the Advent in Birmingham of Christ Church in Tuscaloosa For information about Special Session for June 4-13 July 8-15 campers, please contact Gail Perna at pernagh@ Senior Camp (10th through 12th graders) Sophomore Camp (8th and 9th graders) gmail.com or 256/426-3067; for staff members, Director: The Rev. Russell Kendrick of St. Stephen’s in Director: The Rev. Thomas Joyner of Holy Trinity in please contact Jenn Manning at jenniferkmanning@ Birmingham Auburn gmail.com or 205/967-8786. For more information about all other Sum- June 17-22 July 18-23 mer Camp sessions, please contact Susanna Junior High 1 (6th and 7th graders) Middler Camp (5th and 6th graders) Whitsett, Summer Camp Coordinator, at susanna Director: The Rev. Aaron Raulerson of Holy Cross in Director: The Rev. Andy Keyse of Trinity in Florence @campmcdowell.com or 205/387-1806. Trussville Upcoming Events at Camp McDowell Father/Son Behold, I Make All Things New: The Transforming Spirit of the Enneagram Weekend March 21-23 March 1-3 “Behold, I Make All Things New, the O’clock Band will provide music. A special optional feature This special week- Transforming Spirit of the Ennea- is a separate training track for people who want to become end is for all com- gram” retreat conference, cospon- Enneagram teachers; this retreat conference will be one of binations of fathers, sored by Camp McDowell and the four training sessions leading to certification. stepfathers, sons, Institute for Conscious Living, is a “If you think the Enneagram is just another personality grandparents, godpar- must-attend event for those searching typing system or a fun way to label yourself or others, you ents, and special friends for something spiritually powerful have another think coming. This is an ancient but totally who are like fathers. and life transforming. According to relevant method to become conscious of and to actually For more information or to register, please visit Dr. Joseph “Joe” Howell the Rev. Susan Sloan the conference’s live out the teachings of Christ. It takes spiritual growth to www.campmcdowell.dioala.org, or contact Susanna title embraces the Christ-centered another new level by spelling out just how the individual Whitsett at [email protected] or 205/ nature of the Enneagram’s spirituality. can find his or her specific purpose in the world. It goes 387-1806. Dr. Joseph Howell, a clinical psychologist and well- further in helping illuminate each person’s way through known teacher of the spirituality of the Enneagram and the challenges of relationships, parenting, transition, career, author of Becoming Conscious: the Enneagram’s Forgotten Pas- alienation, loss, reaching one’s fullness of life, and so much Mother/ sageway, will be the major presenter. “This event will be far more!” explains conference staff person Susan Murphy. reaching and more comprehensive than any presentation “The Enneagram in the unique way it is taught by our staff Daughter on the Enneagram we’ve yet offered,” notes Dr. Howell, is a much-needed shot in the arm for our Church commu- Weekend who has more than 25 years of experience teaching this nity. By helping people concentrate on their own journey April 5-7 amazing subject. “I am very excited that now there are of faith, the Enneagram diminishes fragmentation and This special week- many people who are familiar with and use the Enneagram promotes wholeness.” end is for all combi- and who are truly interested in deep spiritual consciousness In this time when factions have divided our Church, a nations of mothers, and growth,” he adds. “This means that the presentation of turning inward by individuals toward their own journey stepmothers, daughters, grandmothers, godmothers, and this system’s more advanced concepts now has a large and with the Divine enables them to grow in their own specific special friends who are like mothers. eager audience.” paths. An inevitable result of such spiritual grounding can For more information or to register, please visit The Rev. Susan Sloan, rector of St. Stephen’s in Hunts- bring a collective wholeness and healing to our Church. www.campmcdowell.dioala.org, or contact Susanna ville, is the event’s coordinator. Other presenters and lead- For more information please visit www.campmcdowell. Whitsett at [email protected] or 205/ ers, who are also members of our diocese, include Nikki dioala.org, or contact Camp McDowell Guest Services 387-1806. Chenault, Livy Abele, Susan Murphy, Lark Howell, Katha- Director Cathy Robertson at guestservices@campmcdowell. rine Smith, and Jeff Akamatsu. Melanie Rodgers of the Five com or 205/387-1806.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 10 • The Alabama Episcopalian Working Alongside Our Sisters and Brothers in Haiti Working Alongside Our Sisters and Brothers in Haiti spent time with Carmel and the clinic director assessing Continuing Our What we rediscovered in our praying, future needs. The team also toured St. Simeon Episcopal School and Companion singing, and breaking bread together the expansion project, which will include construction of classrooms for two more grades, a computer room, is how very much alive the body of administration offices, and a kitchen.“We also met with the Relationship with the vestry to review their long-term plans,” C. J. explains, “and Christ is in each of us—and that is we traveled to Crochu to see the new St. Alban’s Episcopal Diocese of Haiti the heart of our partnership. Church and School, which are still under construction.” St. By Diocesan Staff Alban’s Church was destroyed during the 2008 hurricane season, and recent floods washed away the temporary Jacobs from Grace Church in Cullman; and our diocesan A seven-member team from our diocese spent five school. Although work still remains to finish the project, Companion Relationship Commission chair, the Rev. days in Haiti during November laying the groundwork the external structures have been completed and are now Deacon C. J. Van Slyke, from Trinity Church in Clanton. for the next phase of Alabama’s companion relationship habitable, thanks to a United Thank Offering (UTO) grant The group met with Father Fritz Valdema (“Pere Val”), with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti. The relationship, and many other contributions. priest-in-charge of the multichurch St. Simeon Parish, which began informally in 2006, was formalized in Some of the team members checked on our clergy with which our diocese partners, and his wife, Carmel, 2009, and our diocese began another three-year com- spouses’ Krik? Krak! program and its garden, feeding who operates medical and nutrition clinics in communi- panion relationship period this January. initiatives, and latrine projects in Crochu. Others met ties served by the parish. with a group of midwives from several mountain areas “The team also visited the sites where we have on- to assess a program to provide training and lower the going projects, and we gathered information to help the rate of prenatal and infant deaths. commission plan the next three years of our relation- The group also visited St. Michel’s Episcopal Church ship. We came with much-needed gifts and the prayers and School in Thomazeau. “Our diocese built a well of our diocese,” notes C. J. The team delivered medical there for the children and families, and a new cistern supplies donated by commission member Brad Cain and has been installed to provide water for the community’s healthcare provider NaphCare; powdered milk, diabetic sustainable garden project. The team investigated supplies, and children’s vitamins provided by the Nativ- potential improvements to the garden area. This project ity in Huntsville; a computer for Pere Val; and infant will not only help with nutrition, but it will also delivery packs for use by the midwives in the remote provide educational opportunities and income for the mountain community of Crochu, donated by Global community,” C. J. emphasizes. Women, a Birmingham-based nonprofit organization for “Throughout all our meetings we found time to the empowerment of women. worship with our brothers and sisters at St. Simeon, and “We made trips to the temporary home of the The Rev. Deacon Jerry Jacobs, Maggie Johnston, Harris Cornett, the Rev. we hosted their vestry for dinner,” she adds. “Some of us Lespwa Timoun (Hope for the Children) medical/ Deacon C. J. Van Slyke, the Rev. Brad Landry, Andrew Shea, Pere Val, got to celebrate the feast day of St Martin with members Carmel Valdema, Ricardo, and Mark Fortner nutrition clinic and also the site of the clinic’s of its namesake parish outside Port-au-Prince. What we permanent home, which is nearing completion in rediscovered in our praying, singing, and breaking bread Croix des Bouquets. We were able to observe current The team included Maggie Johnston and Andrew together is how very much alive the body of Christ is in operations and meet staff,” C. J. reports. The permanent Shea, representing our clergy spouses’ Krik? Krak! each of us—and that is the heart of our partnership. We clinic will be the cornerstone for Carmel’s satellite and projects; the Rev. Brad Landry and Mark Fortner from look forward to the next three years of changing lives, mobile medical/nutrition clinics. The Rev. Deacon Jerry the Nativity in Huntsville; Harris Cornett from Can- offering hope, and working with our brothers and sisters Jacobs, former director of Good Samaritan Clinic in terbury Chapel in Tuscaloosa; the Rev. Deacon Jerry in Haiti.” Cullman and a member of our diocesan commission,

saw 90 patients during a one-day clinic at the temporary Medical/Construction home of the Lespwa Timoun (Hope for the Children) nutrition and medical clinic in Croix des Bouquets and Team Provides Much- approximately 260 patients during two days of clinic in the remote mountain region of Crochu. While they were in Crochu, the team members Needed Help checked on the construction of St. Alban’s Church and By St. Thomas’ in Huntsville Staff School, which were destroyed by the hurricanes of 2008. “We saw scaffolding erected and rafters being cut with a Two school librarians, one middle-school principal, handsaw,” reports team co-leader Jeannie Randall. Work- a priest, an engineer, and a nurse from St. Thomas’ in ers were putting in place the structure to support the Huntsville went to Haiti in October on a medical/con- metal roof of the church. The reconstruction effort was struction mission trip. This unlikely grouping of profes- Alexander Steel, Mary Wengrowski, Polly Robb, a local physician who funded in part by a United Thank Offering (UTO) Grant sionals joined with two Haitian doctors, four nurses, and works with Carmel Valdema, Jeannie Randall, local medical specialist to the diocese. Ramon, and the Rev. Matt Doss a translator to conduct three days of medical clinics as Much has been done to improve life in that area of part of our diocese’s companion relationship with the the mountains in a joint partnership between Alabama Diocese of Haiti. The joint Haitian/American team

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 Working Alongside Our Sisters and Brothers in Haiti The Alabama Episcopalian • 11

bottom of the mountain after our very bumpy ride down the ‘road’ from Crochu was the lyrics from the album Ten Thousand Days by Bebo Norman—‘Walk down this mountain with your heart held high, follow in the footsteps of your Maker.’ Our experience in Haiti this fall was full of dichotomy. Sharing community with our friends Carmel and Pere Val and the medical mission team of Haitians and Alabamians certainly gave us a feeling of

Sharing community with our friends Carmel and Pere Val and the medical mission team of Haitians and and Haiti Episcopal churches. “The team benefited from shared common ground and hope upon this earth, and the new latrines, and the great kitchen building for the Alabamians certainly gave us a feel- yet seeing the poor conditions and great need that exists Krik? Krak! program was a nice clean place to sleep,” ing of shared common ground and everywhere in Haiti made it perfectly clear that our mis- Jeannie notes. “Sitting on the porch at night with no sion work is far from complete. One might even say it is lights except for the four lightbulbs that had been wired hope upon this earth, and yet seeing wanting. to a solar battery reminded us of Camp McDowell and “Holding our hearts high rather than our heads creates the retreats we have there,” she adds. “The night air was the poor conditions and great need a beautiful image of Christian work,” Polly continues. cool as we companionably sat together with our Haitian “Jesus tells his disciples, ‘In this world you will have brothers and sisters for a game of dominoes at one end of that exists everywhere in Haiti made trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world’ (John the porch, a group of women visiting with one another it perfectly clear that our mission 16:33). When we follow in His footsteps by reaching out outside the kitchen area, and another group of us just to our brothers and sisters in need, we are the body of playing cards.” work is far from complete. Christ, loving and being loved—the gift that overcomes Reflecting on the mission, co-leader Polly Robb all. And this is how the world should be . . . how the writes, “All I could think of as we finally reached the world should be.”

goals were accomplished. As usual, there is a lot going on Celebrating Christmas with the Valdema crew, and this was the week leading up to Christmas. Most of our time was spent preparing for in Crochu the feast day in Crochu on Friday. There were presents to By Andrew Shea, Krik? Krak! Staff be bought, food to be prepared, trucks to be fixed—no small undertaking for the church/school community of With funds provided more than 200. It took everyone’s help to make it happen. by our clergy spouses’ The feast day was, at once, the most beautiful, Krik? Krak! program touching, heartbreaking, and odd thing I have ever seen. and our diocesan The teachers and students had clearly prepared for it for Companion Relation- quite some time with songs, performances and offerings. I ship Commission, staff was asked to play “Ton-ton Noel” (Santa). member Andrew Shea A meal of rice, beans, root/beet salad, and chicken was helped the children laboriously prepared for more than 250 people, the exact special. If that was our only goal in hosting this feast day in Crochu celebrate for the community of Crochu, then we have succeeded. Christmas, including If, as I see it, our real goal is to provide a better, brighter a visit from “Ton-ton I thank all of you for your time and future for the next generation and we are committed to Noel.” continuing support of Krik? Krak! and doing that, it will take . . . dare I say, a miracle and also a The first step off clear and defined partnership of common vision. This, to the plane is almost the Haitian people—they are truly me, is our next mission, if we choose to accept it. I thank always the one that all of you for your time and continuing support of Krik? makes me smile the thankful and pray for us every day. Krak! and the Haitian people—they are truly thankful most; there is no and pray for us every day. doubt you are about to enter another world, far removed from your common number hard to count because of all the overflow. Timmy, experience. The scene at St. Simeon is welcoming as one of Crochu’s own who now lives at St. Simeon, always, and I have come to know so many people there made the special cake. The simple logistics of acquiring, that it seems more of a homecoming than coming back preparing, and transporting gifts and food for this remote to Huntsville at times. After the extended hellos and mountain community was nothing short of a miracle. niceties, I step into my familiar room, arrange my things In the wake of this all-day event, people filtered out at my desk, prepare my bed, and lunch is served. I am like they do from many holiday events—happy, tired, ready to get to work, talk about the week, and get things fulfilled, exhausted, satisfied, disappointed. In the midst of started, but as is often the case, I forget I am on island popped balloons, broken toys, discarded plates, and drying time—there must be resting and accommodations for a tears sat a pants-less child in the dirt staring at something host of other agendas. small. Contrasted in the half-light of the setting sun it was To say that my week there in December was action- only he and I that knew—he held the ocean in a shell. packed would be a slight exaggeration, but the intended Surely every child, every person deserves to feel

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 12 • The Alabama Episcopalian Episcopal Church Women

Ep i s c o p a l Ch u r c h W o m e n Compiled by Anne Couch Burke, Publicity Chair

our newly formed ECW. We may have had more fun The ECW of St. Stephen’s in Birmingham will than our guests!” Joan notes. “This was the first event host their 17th Annual Spring Tea and Fashion hosted by the restructured ECW at St. Joseph’s. The new Show from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 3. This is the organization is framed with a plan that will include all only fundraising event for the parish’s ECW, and the the women of the parish, both part-time and full-time monies raised benefit in-reach and outreach projects. residents of Mentone. We designed a communication Everyone is cordially invited to participate and enjoy this system using ‘e-mail broadcasts’ to keep everyone amazing event! For more information please contact Kim informed of activities and plans. Within two months Maddox at [email protected] or 205/790- after the start-up meeting at the home of Gethryn 4044 or Mindy Strickland at mindystrickland@gmail. Giles, we had 20 women who had paid dues and made com or 205/568-9323. a commitment to the effort of building a strong and inclusive ECW. Next for us was a spiritual retreat on January 5, led by Marsha Hurt at Camp DeSoto here on Lookout Mountain. What a great way to begin 2013 and help prepare us to live our Purpose Statement: ‘women serving God together in community.’ ”

When the women of St. Simon Peter in Pell City heard that the Christian Love Pantry had almost Marsha Merrill (above) along with Beth Fontaine, Joan Byrum, and depleted its pantry this year and might not have funds Gethryn Giles (below) enjoyed the Holiday Tea hosted by the ECW of to put together holiday meals for families in need, the St. Joseph on-the-Mountain in Mentone. wheels started turning and an idea was formed for a fundraiser named “Painting for the Pantry.” Deb Cearley recalls, “We found a great deal of the overhead would be in the easels, brushes, aprons, canvases, and paint. We contacted a local artist, Nettie Bean, and asked if she could help us. With the timing of the event she was UTO Applications unable to donate her time, but she would lend Accepted Until us the necessary equipment, everything except the canvases. We found a deal on February 28 canvases online, and we started selling tickets,” Deb United Thank Offering (UTO) grant applications The ECW Mountain Convocation met at St. explains. “Many ladies from the church brought snacks, will be accepted only online and only until February Joseph’s on-the-Mountain in Mentone on October and we had a wonderful time painting pictures of 28. These grants are awarded for projects that address 19. Communications Officer Joan Byrum reports that Christmas wreaths. We raised $540 to donate to the human needs and help alleviate poverty, both “after enjoying coffee and pastries, the group met in the Christian Love Pantry—that would make 27 holiday domestically and internationally within Anglican nave for a time of worship. The Rev. Rebecca DeBow, meal baskets. And with the evening of fellowship we provinces, dioceses, and companion dioceses. Interested associate rector at St. Luke’s in Birmingham, was the participated in, this was the icing on the cake. The thank- applicants may review the grant criteria and changes preacher and celebrant for the day. The fall business yous for this event are so numerous—I want to thank online at http://www.episcopalchurch.org/uto. meeting followed led by Pat Clanton, coordinator everyone who participated, those who painted as well as Each grant should be reviewed by the ECW United of the Mountain Convocation. The appointed Alms those who donated without painting. Nettie Bean for her Thank Offering Board and Bishop Sloan before it is Committee reported the offering total of $208, which donation of the easels, brushes, paints, and aprons. Karla submitted. For more information please contact Linda was designated for the Church Periodical Club. Marsha Conway for serving as our leader and Jan Canoles for Kennedy at 205/324-7116 or [email protected]. Merrill, president of St. Joseph’s ECW, invited the group getting all those bows just right. And everyone who asked, to the parish hall for lunch. It was a successful event for ‘When do we do the next one?’ ”

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 Around Our Diocese The Alabama Episcopalian • 13 The 2012 Episcopal Place Bishops’ Dinner By Kris Mueller, Director of Development

products and crafts to sell in the United States so that they can improve their lives. The Haitians make tote bags, aprons, and other sewn pieces, plus beeswax candles and food products, which are sold at stores and markets in the Southeast. Other sponsors for the event included Business Electronics, the Cathedral Church of the Advent, the Venerable Louise and Paul Thibodaux, SPM Property Management, St. Martin’s in the Pines, Dr. Rusty Bennett, Suzan and Neil Doidge, Darlene Green, Margaret and Dr. John Paul Mussleman, the Rev. Deacon Episcopal Place Executive Director Tim Blanton with Ann Piper of Joe Piper Inc. and North Coast Judy Quick and St. Andrew’s Development Corporation, Bishop and Tina Sloan, and Terry Chapman of Business Electronics and Episcopal Place Board of Directors President Episcopal Church in Montevallo, Tellis and J. Shoemaker, Drs. Lori Bishop Sloan with Episcopal Place residents Phyllis Bass, Boots Carroll, and Ed Boutwell More than 150 people attended the 2012 Episcopal and Perry Smith, the ECW of St. Place Bishop’s Dinner on November 1 at The Club to Luke’s in Birmingham, the ECW of St. Mary’s-on-the- Proceeds from the Bishop’s Dinner will help provide celebrate our diocese’s mission of serving seniors and Highlands in Birmingham, St. Vincent’s Health System, residents with van transportation, subsidized noon meals young disabled adults in Birmingham. The All Saints’ Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, Simmons Name and housekeeping, resident activities, pastoral care, and Day event raised $18,000, which will help provide the Plate Design, and Bill Dixon Photography. worship services. Episcopal Place, an independent living, “ECares” Supportive Services Program to the 148 low- Bishop Sloan was the special speaker for the affordable housing apartment community, opened in income residents at Episcopal Place. dinner. Dr. Lori Smith, a member of St. Luke’s and the 1980 as a partnership between the Episcopal Diocese The presenting sponsor for the event was North Episcopal Place Board of Directors; Suzan Doidge, also of Alabama and local parishes, the nonprofit sector, Coast Development Corporation, created two years a member of St. Luke’s; and Tellis Shoemaker, a member and the government (U.S. Department of Housing and ago by Ann Piper, President of Joe Piper Inc. and a of St. Mary’s-on-the Highlands, served as chairs of the Urban Development), which provides rent subsidies for member of St. Stephen’s in Birmingham. North Coast Event Planning Committee. Forty-five members of local residents. Development Corporation teaches Haitians to make parishes served on the Event Host Committee. Ahab, the Shepherd, New Shoes for Christmas By Staff of St. John’s in Decatur Leads Us to Baby Jesus By Leslie Dunlap, Director of St. Stephen’s Preschool in Birmingham

In celebration of the feast day of St. Nicholas, the members of St. John’s in Ahab, the Shepherd (aka Father Russell Kendrick), was waiting for the children and Decatur collected 70-plus new pairs of shoes, which they wrapped and presented to teachers in the nave the last day of school before Christmas, and he led us on a journey representatives of the local Boys and Girls Club. Parishioners selected shoe ornaments, to find baby Jesus. We followed the star and finally found the baby lying in a manger! which gave children’s sizes, from the St. Nicholas Shoe Tree, and bought appropriate Each of the children put a handful of hay on baby Jesus to keep him warm, and we shoes. After a Wednesday night parish dinner, we stuffed the shoe boxes with extra gifts gathered around the manger to say a prayer and sing “Go Tell It on the Mountain.” including chocolate coins and socks, and then we wrapped the boxes. This was the Then we sang “Happy Birthday, Dear Jesus” and ate birthday cake! fourth year St. John’s has donated new shoes to this community organization.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 14 • The Alabama Episcopalian Around Our Diocese Holy Apostles’ Helps Give Veterans A Place To Call “Home” By Three Hots and A Cot Executive Director JD Simpson with Photos by William Davis II

As a young man I was a member of Grace Church in housing homeless veterans. Grace Church continues to of how they have helped this initiative to serve homeless Woodlawn (Birmingham). In fact, my mother, Deanna be a giant in the outreach efforts in their community, and veterans succeed. Simpson, founded the Grace Soup Kitchen more than Three Hots and A Cot is one result of this outreach. The parish has been there for us with material 35 years ago. I remember helping her fix that first meal In late 2009 my family and I began looking for donations, food donations, and monetary support. for about a dozen folks who showed up. In the early years a church home, and we found it at Holy Apostles’ in The biggest blessing for me as founder, president, and Bishop Furman Stough would come help at Thanksgiving Hoover (Birmingham). There are many in our world who executive director of Three Hots and A Cot has been and Christmas. This was back in the Rev. Charlie Horn’s “talk” about making a difference and many who “talk” the moral support and prayer support the members of days—we lost him a few weeks ago, and I know he will about ministry—and then there are the members of Holy the parish give me. So many men reach out with words be missed by many in our diocese. Apostles’. They “live” each day making a difference with of encouragement when things get tough—they offer When I returned to Birmingham in 2009, it was their ministry. Holy Apostles’ has been a huge supporter guidance and counsel to me at times when I need it Sandra Lawler and Jack Alison from Grace Church who of Three Hots and A Cot for more than two years now. most. Bill Davis has been a regular advisor to me since helped us get St. Benedict’s Veterans Center established The financial support from the men’s group, the parish the day I first met him two years ago, before I became a in Woodlawn. We opened there in June 2010 and began outreach, and the members is only the tip of the iceberg member of Holy Apostles’. People like me who face the challenges of a full-time ministry each day often need a refuge to retreat to and be ministered to, and that is what Holy Apostles’ provides for me. The fellowship and prayer support I find with the people there is a major source of my strength to face each day in reaching out to others and serving Christ. I was just getting to know Jim Wayland through the men’s group when we lost him. He was someone whose encouragement and support seemed to have no end. When Three Hots and A Cot began working on renovating a house in Eastlake, we asked Tracy Wayland if we could name the house in Jim’s honor. She graciously agreed, and the Jim Wayland House now provides a home for three veterans. We at Three Hots and A Cot are able to do what we do because of so many people who support us in so many ways like the folks at Holy Apostles’, Grace Church, and many others in our diocese. I encourage each of you to visit our Web site, http://www.cotsforvets.org, to learn more about Three Hots and A Cot, and I beg everyone’s prayers as we continue to reach out to those men and women who have served our nation. Veterans Charlie, Scotty, and James now call the Jim Wayland House their “home”

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St. Columba in the Cove Starts The Rev. Wilton Bunch Honored Beans and Rice Ministry for His Work in Medicine By the Rev. Joan Henrick By Diocesan Staff

Last fall St. Columba in the Cove in Owens Cross Roads had its first-ever Free The Rev. Wilton Bunch, who served as priest affiliate at Holy Apostles’ in Hoover and Beans and Rice Day, joining other parishes in this ministry started by the Rev. Bill interim rector at St. Andrew’s in Birmingham, has been honored by Loyola University King, priest in charge of Trinity in Clanton. We distributed dried beans and rice along in Chicago for his work in medicine. Loyola’s Stritch School of Medicine recently es- with other nonperishable items to three families, which seems to be the going number tablished the Annual Wilton Bunch Lecture in Medical Ethics in Orthopaedic Surgery, for most first-timers. We pray that as the community begins to understand that these and the school invited Wilton to give the inaugural lecture. food items are truly free without strings attached, the numbers will grow. We will According to an announcement released by Samford University in Birmingham, continue to give dried beans, rice, and other nonperishables without question the last where Wilton currently teaches philosophy, he “chaired Loyola’s Department of Or- Saturday of each month from noon to 3 p.m. or until our supply is depleted. thopaedic Surgery from 1975 to 1985, having already served as the endowed chair of “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food? We saw you thirsty a surgical department at the University of Virginia. He went on to serve as Dean of and gave you something to drink? We saw you a stranger and welcomed you? We saw Medicine at the University of Chicago and Dean of the College of Medicine at the you sick and took care of you? We saw you in prison and visited you? ‘Truly I tell you, University of South Florida before a divinity degree led him to a second career and his just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it Samford teaching position.” to me’ ” Matthew 25: 37-40 (NRSV).

Montgomery-Area Churches Celebrate First River Region Jazz/Gumbo Picnic By Philip Goodwyn, a Member of the Ascension in Montgomery

Three huge, black iron kettles—each simmering 60-80 gallons of delicious gumbo, vegetarian chili, or red beans and rice— greeted the guests arriving at Grove Park on Sunday afternoon, October 21. The First Annual River Region Episcopal Jazz/Gumbo Picnic took place on a picture-perfect fall afternoon by the lake. The ambience was as pleasant as the weather, with the aroma from the cooking gumbos, the laughter of children playing crocket, and the light jazz sounds of the Coleman Woodson Band. Parishioners from the Ascension, St. John’s, Holy Comforter, St. Michael and All 100 quarts of the delicacies to be shared as needed with the sick, and many Angels’, Grace Church, and St. Mark’s prepared the gumbos from fresh ingredients additional gallons of gumbo and chili were frozen and delivered to local charities and provided assorted homemade desserts to round out the meal. Each attendee that provide food for our community’s hungry. enjoyed gumbo, rice, salad, and freshly baked loaves of French bread from Fresh Mark your calendars—the next River Region Episcopal Jazz/Gumbo Picnic is Market. To cap off the afternoon, the Ascension’s Boy Scout Troop 1 put away scheduled for October 2013!

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 16 • The Alabama Episcopalian Our 182nd Annual Diocesan Convention

Our Shared Mission Resolution #1: The 2013 and Ministry As the Proposed Program and Budget Diocese of Alabama Our Diocesan Budget As Proposed by Our Diocesan Council By the Rev. Rob Morpeth, Staff Officer for Finance and Administration

The funds to do our work as the Diocese of Alabama, not to mention the people who do most of the ministry, come from the congregations that compose our diocese. Our 92 congregations and 8 college ministry centers are our diocese! Each year we come together as a convention to renew our fellowship in Christ and plan for our ministry together as a diocese. A significant portion of the convention’s work is the decision of how best to allocate the resources God is providing through the some 30,000 baptized members of the Diocese of Alabama. This year our Diocesan Council, which guides the ministry of our diocese through the year, is proposing a budget allocating $2,791,445. This budget is based on pledges from our congregations and limited use of additional funds from trust and designated funds (93 percent of the funds are derived from the voluntary pledges from the congregations). Through their proportional giving in support of our shared mission and ministry, the congregations act as parishioners of our diocese, modeling the principles of Christian stewardship. In allocating God’s resources for 2013, the Council sought to continue and extend successful ministries while allocating sufficient resources to nurture new initiatives. In the proposed budget (see “Resolution #1: The 2013 Proposed Program and Budget” at right) the Council allocates funds to sustain the work of our new assistant bishop, responds to the mandate of General Convention directing the extension of pension benefits to most lay employees, provides funds for the new ministry with college students in the Huntsville area, sustains our annual support of the University of the South (our diocese is one of the owning dioceses of the university), begins a new initiative (The Iona Project) in cooperation with the Seminary of the Southwest and other dioceses to explore a new approach to forming priests, provides funds for a new congregation in the Gardendale area, and funds work in Fairfield to develop a fresh expression of congregational life in an already creative ministry. The budget continues to underwrite your continuing medical and construction missions serving the people of Haiti; your chaplaincies in higher education in Auburn, Birmingham, Florence, Huntsville, Jacksonville, Montevallo, Tuscaloosa, and Tuskegee; a full range of events for youth; the Sawyerville Day Camp ministry; and support for parish Christian education programs. The proposed budget provides funds for two conferences nurturing our spiritual formation, gatherings for clergy and their spouses to continue their own formation and fellowship, support for our ministry in the Hispanic community through Iglesia Episcopal de la Gracia, continuing assistance for developing congregations, grants for missionaries both domestic and foreign, and support of the General Convention Program and Budget. The proposed budget now goes to our 182nd Annual Diocesan Convention meeting on February 22-23 for final approval. If you have any comments, please contact me at [email protected].

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 Our 182nd Annual Diocesan Convention The Alabama Episcopalian • 17

Our 182nd Annual Diocesan Convention—“Invite, Inspire, Transform” By Diocesan Staff St. John’s in Montgomery is hosting our 182nd Annual Diocesan Convention on During the afternoon session, the convention will hear reports from our Diocesan February 22 and 23. The theme for this year and the next two annual conventions is Council and treasurer, new clergy will be introduced, Bishop Sloan will address the “Invite, Inspire, Transform.” convention, resolution committees will meet, and caucus elections will be held. Friday “We are borrowing the idea from the Standing Commission on Lifelong Formation, evening, delegates and visitors will gather at the Capital City Club atop Montgomery’s and each year we will take a good look at these three actions to which our faith calls tallest building with views of the Alabama River and state capital for the convention us,” explains Bishop Sloan. “At our convention we come together to celebrate the life gala. and work of our diocese, to strengthen and give thanks for work already done, and to Convention business will resume on Saturday morning following breakfast and hear the challenges and possibilities before us,” he adds. “A major focus of this year’s Morning Prayer. Delegates and visitors will hear additional reports from diocesan convention will be hearing about the work being planned at Bethany Village, a new departments and committees, ratify caucus elections, recognize parishes for their development at Camp McDowell. This is very exciting, very challenging, and worth our stewardship, and debate and vote on the work of the resolution committees. Clergy best efforts.” spouses will meet for a special brunch. Most of the convention activities will be held at St. John’s and neighboring facilities. In the afternoon the convention will hear additional reports and conduct at-large The convention begins Friday morning with continental breakfast, registration, and elections. Newly elected diocesan leaders will be commissioned, and parish ministries the opening Festival Eucharist, with Assistant Bishop Marray delivering the sermon. will be celebrated in the context of closing worship. Nominees for Office DIOCESAN COUNCIL * Men’s Prayer Breakfast The Rev. Charles Youngson * Senior-high Sunday school teacher Rector of St. Thomas’ in NORTHERN DISTRICT * Parish bus driver Birmingham * Chair of Department of Liturgy Presbyter Nominee and Music STANDING COMMITTEE * Member of Board of Examining The Rev. Basye Holland-Shuey Chaplains Rector of Holy Cross-St. Christopher * Member of Bishop Search in Huntsville Clergy Nominees Committee * Active member of the Diocese of * Former Spiritual Director for Alabama for 25 years The Rev. Evan Garner Happening, Cursillo, and Camp McDowell sessions * Co-founder and chaplain of Canterbury Rector of St. John’s in Decatur in Huntsville * Former Associate Rector of Lay Nominees * Author and producer of Interfaith St. John’s in Montgomery Dialogue as Spiritual Practice * Deputy to General Convention Lamar Auman * Leader of educational programs at the University of the South 2012 Member of the Epiphany in in Sewanee and the Nativity in Huntsville * Chair of Department of Guntersville * Congregational Development Conference participant Stewardship * Senior Warden * Former member of Diocesan *Education for Ministry (EFM) MIDDLE DISTRICT Council mentor * Former chaplain to Youth Department * Participant in Happening and No nominees Cursillo The Rev. Canon Joe Gibbes * Acolyte Canon at the Cathedral Church SOUTHERN DISTRICT * Adult Christian formation leader of the Advent in Birmingham * Camp McDowell summer staff * Canon for Christian Education at Presbyter Nominee the Advent Roger Holliday * Cathedral liaison for diocesan affairs Member of St. James’ in Alexander The Rev. Brandt Montgomery * Camp McDowell session chaplain City Priest Associate of Canterbury Chapel 2012 and 2013 * Senior warden in Tuscaloosa * Vestry member * Member of the University of Alabama * Cursillo Parish Lay Rector, Head Campus Ministry Association The Rev. Joan Miller Henrick Cha, and staff member * Chaplain for Special Session at Camp Rector of St. Columba in the * Member of Department of Camp McDowell Cove in Owens Cross Roads McDowell * Member of Department of Ministry of * Active member of the Diocese of * Marketing Chair for Bethany Higher Education Alabama for 33 years Village * Canterbury Chapel Deacon’s Deli Chaplain * Member of Commission on Spirituality Lay Nominee * Member of Diocesan Council * Former Cursillo Spiritual Director * Anti-Racism Commission at DISCIPLINARY BOARD Bill Garrett Jr. seminary Member of the Ascension in * Assistant chaplain to Canterbury in Huntsville Montgomery No nominees * Canterbury Cathedral Scholar * Vestry member 2008-2010 * Senior Warden 2010 * Verger, lector, and chalice bearer

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 18 • The Alabama Episcopalian Around Our Diocese

Up c o m i n g Ev e n t s , W o r k s h o p s , a n d Re t r e a t s

Camp McDowell “Behold, I make all of Holy Scripture for the sake of developing a grammar and view of reality shaped by God’s self-revelation. The Alabama Folk things new”—The lectures in this series focus the participants’ attention on a School Workshops Transformational few key examples from the history of biblical From Scratch Weekend Spirit of the interpretation, with the goal of reviving theological reading February 15-17 practices for ecclesial and personal renewal. For more This is our first annual beginners-only weekend Enneagram information please contact Gil Kracke at gil@ March 21-23 at Camp McDowell workshop! Ever want to learn the banjo but don’t know cathedraladvent.com or 205/226-3516. anything about it? Did you get a guitar for Christmas Everyone is cordially invited to this conference led but can’t even begin to play it? Want to knit a baby by Dr. Joseph Benton Howell, who lives in Anniston and has practiced clinical psychology since 1981. A blanket but don’t know where to start it? Our From 8th Annual Scratch Weekend will teach you the skills you need to recognized expert and gifted teacher on spirituality, get started on an instrument or craft from scratch—no psychological change, and the Enneagram, Dr. Howell Episcopal Place experience necessary! For more information please contact speaks and presents workshops around the country. His Gumbo Gala Director Sarah Mills Nee at 205/387-1806 or folkschool@ books include the recently released Becoming Conscious: April 20 from 11 a.m. to campmcdowell.com, or visit www.alfolkschool.com. The Enneagram’s Forgotten Passageway. For more information 2 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces in about this special conference, please see the description on Birmingham Bluegrass & Gee’s Bend Workshop page 9. About 40 gumbo cook teams are expected to cook April 15-18 and serve gumbo as they compete for 9 trophies in the If you want to learn or hone your bluegrass skills 2013 Gumbo Gala. For more information please visit on the banjo, guitar, or mandolin—this workshop is The Advent Theology the event Web site, www.gumbogala.com, or contact Kris for you! If you want to make one-of-a-kind quilts or Lecture Series Mueller, director of development of Episcopal Place, at glass mosaics—this is the workshop for you!! For more April 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 to [email protected] or 205/939-0085. information please see “Music, Quilting, and Mosaics— 8:30 p.m. at Cranmer House in What Fun!” on page 8 or contact Director Sarah Mills Birmingham Nee at 205/387-1806 or [email protected], Dr. Mark Gignilliat, 16th Annual Crawfish & Shrimp Boil or visit www.alfolkschool.com. associate professor at Beeson April 27 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Holy Apostles’ in Divinity School and lay canon Hoover (Birmingham) theologian at Cathedral Church Spend the day with friends while feasting on boiled Catechists Retreat of the Advent, will present “The crawfish and shrimp along with boiled corn and potatoes March 1 at St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands and March 2 at History of Biblical Interpretation: The Faithful Dead prepared by Boil Master Paul Gilbert. Char-grilled All Saints’ in Birmingham Still Speak” on Thursday evenings in April at Cranmer hotdogs with all the trimmings will also be served. Come Stephanie Diethelm of All Saints’, Beverley Hoyt of House (2828 Culver Road). Part of the Advent Theology play in a Moon Walk, dance to a live band, and pick up St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands, and Katie Robinson of Lecture Series, the weekly topics include The Church a live crawfish or two—just for the fun of it! For more St. Luke’s in Birmingham are hosting this special event. Fathers on April 4, Martin Luther on April 11, John information please e-mail Bill Davis at billdavis2ii@ Mary Mirrione, director of the National Association Calvin on April 18, and Karl Barth on April 25. att.net, contact Holy Apostles’ (424 Emery Drive) at of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, and Anna Christianity at its core is a book religion, and the 205/988-8000, or visit http://holyapostles.dioala.org. Hurdle, a Montessori teacher and Catechesis of the Good Church from its inception struggled after the interpretation Shepherd Formation Leader, will lead the retreat. For more information please e-mail Stephanie Diethelm at [email protected] or call All Saints’ at Bishop Sloan Designates 205/879-8651. Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday “Centering in the Midst of Commotion: By the Rev. Deacon Judy Quick, Diocesan Coordinator Thomas Merton, Contemplation, and This year Bishop Episcopal Relief & the Living Life” Sloan has appointed Development invites us March 9 at St. Stephen’s in Birmingham the third Sunday in to reflect on our faith Contemplative Outreach Birmingham announces the Lent, March 3, as and how we might take organization’s 20th Annual Conference, “Centering in the Episcopal Relief & action to respond to a Midst of Commotion: Thomas Merton, Contemplation, Development Sunday. hurting world. Please order and the Living Life.” Gray Matthews, Ph.D., who On that day especially, we are all asked to offer up Lenten booklets from the is a former board member of the Thomas Merton prayers and almsgiving to people around the world Episcopal Media Center International Society, a lay Cistercian, and an assistant struggling with poverty, hunger, and disease. (EMC) by calling 866/937- professor at the University of Memphis, will help lead a The 2013 Lenten Meditations booklet from Episcopal 2772, visiting http:// meditative conversation on lessons drawn from the life of Relief & Development provides a particular focus on episcopalmarketplace. Thomas Merton. He will share how Merton prayed and alleviating hunger and improving food supply org, or e-mailing sales@ conceived the nature of prayer, as well as how Merton’s while helping us prepare for spiritual healing during episcopalmedia.org. monastic opening to the world helps us better appreciate Lent. A group of Episcopal Church leaders from a If you would like more information or a presentation the paradox of living in the world while not being of it. variety of backgrounds and theological perspectives on the work of Episcopal Relief & Development, please For more information please contact Diana Tschache at wrote this year’s meditations. As we consider Jesus’ contact me at [email protected] or 205/669-6862, 205/991-6964 or [email protected]. life of healing and sacrifice during this Lenten season, or visit www.er-d.org.

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Wh a t ’s New /No t ew o rt h y a t t h e Ep i s c o p a l Bo o k St o r e Ma r k Y o u r Ca l e n d a r By Cindy Funderburk, Manager Diocesan Convention February 22-23 at St. John’s in McDowell. For more information please see “Rites of Spring Not by Bread Alone: Daily Montgomery Retreat” on page x or e-mail Youth Ministries Coordinator Reflections for Lent by Robert F. Cursillo Weekends #186 March 7-10, #187 April 4-7, Susan Oakes at [email protected] or visit www.dioala.org. Morneau #188 June 6-9, #189 September 12-15, #190 October Prayerfully journey through 10-13 March 17 Organ recital presented by Charles M. Lent with these day-by-day Sawyerville Day Camp Session I—June 21-29, Session Kennedy, associate director of music and organist, reflections on the daily readings. II—July 5-13, Session III – July 19-27 at 4 p.m. at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in In just minutes per day, Not by Birmingham. For more information please contact Music Bread Alone can deepen your February 22-23 Diocesan Convention Lock-In for 9th Associate Charles M. Kennedy at kennedy@cathedraladvent. experience of this solemn season through 12th-graders at the Ascension in Montgomery. com or 205/226-3505. of prayer and penance and prepare For more information please see the description on page 6 or you to participate more fully in e-mail Youth Ministries Coordinator Susan Oakes at soakes@ March 21-23 “Behold, I Make All Things New—The the joy of the great Easter mystery. dioala.org. Transformational Spirit of the Enneagram” Lenten conference led by Dr. Joseph Howell at Camp McDowell. Reliable Truth: The Validity of the February 24 Evensong for Lent sung by the Cathedral For more information please see the description on page 9. Bible in an Age of Skepticism by Choir under the direction of Frederick A. Teardo Richard E. Simmons III at 4 p.m. at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in April 4, 11, 18, and 25 The Advent Lecture What do science, history, Birmingham. For more information please contact Music Series—“The History of Biblical Interpretation: The and logic have to say about the Associate Charles M. Kennedy at kennedy@cathedraladvent. Faithful Dead Still Speak” led by Dr. Mark Gignilliat reliability of the Bible? Richard com or 205/226-3505. and sponsored by the Cathedral Church of the Advent Simmons wrote this book because at Cranmer House in Birmingham. For more information it became increasingly important March 1-2 Catechists Retreat led by Mary Mirrione please see the description on page 18 or contact Gil Kracke at to him to uncover existing and Anna Hurdle at St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands (March [email protected] or 205/226-3516. evidence that could prove the 1) and All Saints’ in Birmingham (March 2). For more biblical story is in harmony with information please see the description on page 18, e-mail April 5-7 Mother/Daughter Weekend at Camp secular history. Reliable Truth Stephanie Diethelm at [email protected], or McDowell. For more information please see the description on presents how the Bible reflects the call All Saints’ at 205/879-8651. page 9. true nature of reality. It is about seeing the world as it is while debunking the myths, legends, and false beliefs of March 1-3 Father/Son Weekend at Camp McDowell. For April 20 8th Annual Episcopal Place Gumbo Gala from the Bible. more information please see the description on page 9. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham. For more information please see the description on page 18, Jesus Calling Bible March 9 “Centering in the Midst of Commotion: visit www.gumbogala.com, or contact Kris Mueller, director of Storybook by Sarah Young, Thomas Merton, Contemplation, and the Living Life” led development of Episcopal Place, at [email protected] illustrated by Carolina by Dr. Gray Matthews and sponsored by Contemplative or 205/939-0085. Farias Outreach Birmingham at St. Stephen’s in Birmingham. This brand-new Bible For more information please the description on page 18 or April 27 16th Annual Crawfish & Shrimp Boil from storybook teaches children contact Diana Tschache at 205/991-6964 or tschached@ 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Holy Apostles’ in Hoover about God’s amazing plan bellsouth.net. (Birmingham). For more information please see the description through His Son, Jesus. These on page 18, e-mail Bill Davis at [email protected], contact carefully selected stories are March 15-17 Rites of Spring, including annual Holy Apostles’ (424 Emery Drive) at 205/988-8000, or visit paired with Sarah Young’s EYC Convention, for high-school students at Camp http://holyapostles.dioala.org. new children’s devotions, and together they will help Bible Detective by Peter Martin, time in her life, yet the words of young hearts understand that Jesus loves them so much illustrated by Peter Kent Scripture and Jesus’ own Presence and that God has a grand plan to save His children and “Where’s Waldo?” meets the were ever near, bringing her hope prepare a place for us in heaven. Bible in this cleverly illustrated and comfort for each new day. picture-search puzzle book for Whether you are looking for a Thoughts to Make Your young readers. Young detectives lifeline in your discouragement or Heart Sing by Sally Lloyd- can pore over more than 17 simply longing for an encouraging Jones and Jago scenes of Bible events to find the boost in your day, this new This innovative answers to questions posed on devotional book (a sequel to Jesus devotional by bestselling each page. Each two-page spread, Calling) offers the same hope for author Sally Lloyd-Jones accompanied by Bible trivia, is you. It is written as if Jesus Himself (The Jesus Storybook Bible), illustrated with the main scene taking up the center of the is assuring you that He is in control, presents 101 insightful, page and the items to “seek” decorating the edges. Some that He is good, and that a glorious future awaits all who biblical thoughts will puzzles involve looking for details of everyday life, while anchor their hope in Him. build your personal day- others highlight details of the Bible stories. With lots to by-day relationship with find, this kind of book is particularly great for reluctant The bookstore is open Monday through Thursday from Jesus and create a deeper readers and visual learners, helping all children get an 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 understanding of faith. The text and beautiful art by Jago overview of the Bible’s history and content as they super- p.m. For information about these and other books or to will help you discover how God seeks to know us with sleuth their way to the end. have the staff research and special order a particular book, an amazing and grace-filled love. Your whole family will please contact the Episcopal Book Store, 2015 Sixth enjoy this devotional treasure. Jesus Today: Experience Hope through His Presence by Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203; 205/323-2959; Sarah Young [email protected]; or visit the bookstore online at Sarah Young wrote Jesus Today during a very difficult www.episcobooks.com.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013 Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n Alabama’s Cotton Patch Players Have Shared the Gospel for More Than 23 Years By the Rev. Deacon Dave Drachlis of the most fun means to carry out this mission,” he adds. “Tom Key and Harry Chapin were so clever with their presentation that people seem to get drawn into the ‘old, old story’ in a new way. A lot of people tell me that, after seeing the show, they hear things in Scripture they didn’t hear before. Hey, that’s got to be better than preaching!” The group took a hiatus while David attended seminary and began his ministry Twenty-three years after a planned one-time, two- as an Episcopal priest. The night performance in Huntsville, our diocesan Cotton group took another break after cast member Eric Their 2012 season included performances at St. Patch Gospel ministry continues to touch hearts through- Shaw, also of St. Thomas’, moved out of state. In addition to Luke’s in Birmingham and Grace Church in Cullman. out our diocese and beyond. The Cotton Patch Players David Meginniss, the current Cotton Patch Players include They started their 2013 season with a performance at our gave their final 2012 performance of the “Greatest Story original cast members Andy Meginniss, David’s brother diocesan Cursillo Ultreya at Camp McDowell in January. Ever Retold” on November 28 before a packed house at and a member of St. Stephen’s in Birmingham, and Jeannie Over the years, the Cotton Patch Players have occasion- St. Thomas’ in Huntsville—the place where the ministry Randall, a member of St. Thomas’ in Huntsville, along with ally performed the musical to raise funds for a particular was born more than two decades ago. Randoph Horn, a member of All Saints’ in Birmingham ministry, but most of the time they perform without Written by Tom Key and Russell Treyz with music who joined the cast in 2011. charge. and lyrics by Harry Chapin, this lively and entertaining off-Broadway musical is based on the book The Cotton Patch Version of Matthew and John by Clarence Jordan, in which the Gospel is presented in a setting of rural Geor- Clanton and Chelsea Parishes gia with country music songs. The musical was first presented in our diocese at St. Thomas’ in December 1989 to help raise funds for a hyperbaric chamber for Episcopal Reach Out to Golfers missionaries on the island of Roatan in Honduras. Word Information and Photo from the Rev. Bill King, Priest in Charge of Trinity in Clanton spread, and the group began receiving performance re- quests from throughout Alabama and elsewhere. Over the years, Alabama’s Cotton Patch Players have shared their Over the next three years, an estimated 120,000 golfers playing the 14th musical ministry at other North Alabama churches as well hole at the Oak Mountain State Park Golf Course in Shelby County will as in Birmingham, Scottsboro, Selma, Tuscaloosa, Mobile, receive a subtle invitation to worship at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Cullman, and Anniston. They have performed at Camp Chelsea and Trinity Episcopal Church in Clanton. The two parishes collabo- McDowell, Kanuga Episcopal Conference Center in rated to sponsor the 14th hole for the next three years. A sponsorship sign North Carolina, and a Baptist church on Signal Mountain was placed at the 14th hole on January 2, 2013, and will remain there until in Tennessee. January 2016. “I have no idea how many times we have performed The idea came from the Rev. Deacon Clyde Pearce, the Rev. Bill King, the musical over the years,” says the Rev. David Megin- the Rev. Jim Tuohy, and Ret. Gen. Conrad Ponder who have been play- niss, an original cast member who is a former St. Thomas’ ing this course every Thursday morning for the past three years. The group parishioner and now is the rector of Christ Church in thought this might be a great way to invite golfers to consider attending a Tuscaloosa. “Jesus commissioned His disciples to spread local Episcopal church for Sunday worship. the Good News. The Cotton Patch Gospel is surely one

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 Norma McKittrick at [email protected] or 2156 Kent Way, Birmingham, AL 35226; the submission deadline for each issue is the 1st of the month prior to publication. Postmaster, parishes, and individuals, please send all address changes or additions 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.

Th e Al a b a m a Ep i s c o p a l i a n • Ja n u a r y /Fe b r u a r y 2013