By The Rev. William “Chip” Stokes and Thomas G. O’Brien III • At the Nehemiah On May 31 the diocesan Clergy Retreat, Executive Board and our Clergy members of the and Lay Deputations to Nehemiah team General Convention 2006 from Holy filed responses strongly Family, Miami critical of the proposed Draft Gardens, outline Anglican Covenant. plans for their The Draft Covenant was parish’s future. prepared in January of this year Left to right are by a Covenant Design Group Deacon Ken appointed by the Archbishop of Sims, his wife Canterbury as a follow-up to the Gwen Sims, Windsor Report’s call for longtime lay discussion of an Anglican leader Clinton Covenant. The full report of the Brown and Holy Family’s rector, Fr. Horace Ward. (See story, Page 6).

Bishop Leo Frade has announced that Canon J. Fritz Bazin will join the diocesan staff part-time in July, working with immigration concerns and other social justice issues. Frade explains that he receives requests on a regular basis from clergy, parishioners and By Mary W. Cox, editor others in the community to assist Thirty-one of our congregations are better families and prepared for hurricane season this year, thanks to a new online emergency preparedness program that was tested in our diocese this spring. The • Diocesan Hispanic Commission President Fr. Dwight “Riskeeper” pilot Morgan and Vice-president Mother Cruz Cardona present program, under Assistant Bishop James Ottley with a bouquet of roses at a development by May 15 reception in his honor. Church Restoration Group for Church Insur- ance, was • A NOAA satellite image offered shows Hurricane Frances in two covering the state of Florida By Mary W. Cox, editor locations on Sept. 4, 2004. — March Almost as soon as Assistant Bishop James Ottley 30 at St. Gregory’s, Boca Raton, and March 31 announced that he would leave our diocese June 1 to accept at St. Thomas, Coral Gables. Each session was a position in the Diocese of Long Island, many of the limited to a maximum of 20 participants, and ministries, congregations and organizations that have 31 congregations of varying sizes, as well as the worked closely with him began planning occasions to Diocesan Office, were represented. say thank you and goodbye. Regardless of size of membership, facilities Food was a common theme. “Just about every night or programs, all the congregations were able to throughout the months of April and May was taken up with access such tools as a comprehensive building either a dinner or reception given in the bishop’s honor in and grounds inspection checklist and instructions thanksgiving for his life and ministry here in the diocese. It for placing an insurance claim. is a wonder he hasn’t gained 25 lbs!” says Jackie Fernandez, Prior to the workshops, each participating who was Ottley’s assistant and is now assistant to Bishop church was asked to begin entering its data into Leo Frade. the system — everything from insurance policy There were brunches, receptions and dinners hosted by many numbers, to contact information for parishioners, Communion.” The response noted that “it does not disagreements among the churches evoked this seem likely that a majority in the Communion is response: “It is not fair and just for the Covenant willing to honor the dissent of the sizable minority to provide that the only appeal in times of that favors acceptance of gay and lesbian persons disagreement is to particular parts of the into the full life of the Church. Therefore, for this Instruments of Communion (i.e. the Primates’ minority, an Anglican Covenant would seem to be Meeting) whose majority position on these matters primarily a means of manipulation and control.” is already known and with which The Episcopal The response also expressed concerns that an Church is already at odds.” Anglican Covenant might “alter the Communion to a narrow confessional family, establish a Comments on “The Instruments of Unity” bureaucratic and legalistic foundation at the heart and Dispute Resolution of the Communion, and put at risk inspired and The response agreed that this portion of the Draft prophetic initiatives in God’s mission or threaten Covenant “adequately expressed” the history and Anglican comprehensiveness.” respective roles of the Archbishop of Canterbury, The response continued: “The Episcopal Church, the Lambeth Conference, the Primates’ Meeting because of our own particular historical and cultural and the Anglican Consultative Council. contexts, has come to its particular understanding With regard to the proposed future role of the of the Biblical imperative of justice for all persons. Primates’ Meeting, however, the response was blunt This understanding is different from the in its criticism: “We have concerns, however, about The persistent use of vague and understandings of some of the other churches of the implications of the phrase that the Primates’ undefined phrases throughout the Draft the Communion. Mutual respect by all churches Meeting ‘works in full collaboration in doctrinal, Anglican Covenant is a significant flaw of the Communion for these contexts and moral and pastoral matters that have Communion- that erodes its credibility and undermines understandings is critical to developing a workable wide implications.’ If this is understood that the Covenant. The current Draft is not grounded on Primates will discuss these issues in a collaborative its potential usefulness...... and does not reflect this essential mutual manner, this is consistent with the historic role of respect.” the Primates’ Meeting. We fear, however, that the — Response to Draft Anglican Covenant phrase amounts to an attempt to codify, Comments on the Introduction institutionalize and give approval to the recent and Prologue of the Draft Covenant attempts of the Primates’ Meeting to arrogate power The response stated: “Among the to itself and to exercise a conciliar authority that is special gifts and charisms that have unprecedented in the Communion’s history. This historically marked Anglicanism are its seizure of power and unprecedented use of authority broadness and longstanding ability to accept represent a danger to the historic freedom of the Covenant Design Group and the Draft Anglican and manage differences and diversity while member churches of the Anglican Communion and Covenant can be found at maintaining unity of mission and ministry.” In their heretofore accepted autonomy. The language http://www.aco.org/commission/ light of this, the response said: “We regard the of ‘collaboration’ in doctrinal, moral and pastoral d_covenant/docs/covenant.pdf. recognition and respect for different contexts matters is belied by the evidence of recent Calling the Draft Covenant a potential to be one of the central charisms of the Anglican experience. Some of the Primates are clearly “mechanism of coercion and oppression,” the Communion. To the extent the Draft Anglican attempting to exercise power and control over other responses noted three major weaknesses of Covenant gives only lip service to the reality and Primates and their churches. This hardly represents the Draft: impact of these different contexts for living out ‘full collaboration’.” (1) failure to acknowledge that the treatment the Gospel in the 21st century, the Draft The response continued: “Unless the Communion of gay and lesbian persons in the church is a Covenant will remain fatally flawed.” were to adopt a constitution and canons acceptable justice concern for a significant number of The Draft Covenant also speaks of “discipline” and agreed to by all parts of the Communion, it Episcopalians and Anglicans; in the Communion, and the response expressed makes little sense to establish an ‘executive body’ (2) failure to recognize and respect that all of the concern about “how the implementation of or a ‘juridical body’ to resolve disagreements or churches of the Anglican Communion exist in (and ‘discipline’ in an Anglican Covenant will promote disputes. The proposal can only have the effect of arose from) different historical and cultural Biblical justice so that gay and lesbian persons will exacerbating already existing problems. Allowing contexts; and no longer be degraded and treated with contempt the Primates’ Meeting to serve in the capacity of (3) centralization of authority in the person of — as they are in so many parts of the Communion.” arbiter of ‘matters in serious dispute among the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Primates’ The Response added: “The consistent failure to churches’ contradicts and undermines the historic Meeting in a manner that is “unprecedented in the include the pursuit of justice as a significant democratic polity and structures of The Episcopal history of the Communion.” theological and missiological concern of the Church Church.” seriously impairs the Preamble and the Draft The Draft Covenant also spoke of “essential Background of the Draft Anglican Anglican Covenant.” matters of common concern” and the response Covenant pointed out that the Communion is not of one mind The Windsor Report proposed that the Anglican Comments on the Covenant’s “Common on many issues. The response went on: “We should Communion consider development of an Anglican Affirmations” and “Commitments” reject the portions of the Draft Covenant that Covenant, and The Episcopal Church’s 2006 The Draft Covenant proposed common establish a false or superficial unity at the expense General Convention adopted Resolution A166 affirmations and commitments to which all of the demands of Biblical justice as faithfully supporting “the process of the development of an members of the Communion are to subscribe. The understood in the historical context of The Anglican Covenant that underscores our unity in response was concerned that the affirmations might Episcopal Church.” faith, order and common life in the service of God’s be too broadly construed and questioned whether The response pointed out: “The persistent use mission.” there is an accepted definition within the of vague and undefined phrases throughout the The Archbishop of Canterbury appointed a Communion regarding the content of “the faith.” Draft Anglican Covenant is a significant flaw that Covenant Design Group with the Most Reverend In this regard, the response stated that the erodes its credibility and undermines its potential Drexel Gomez, archbishop of the Church in the affirmations “fail to acknowledge that the context usefulness. Indeed, the suggestion that there is a West Indies, as chair. In January 2007, the CDG in which each church in the Communion arose and ‘common mind’ for 38 churches around the world presented its report and the Draft Covenant and exists also affects the way persons in these churches is not realistic either as a description or as a goal. requested responses by all the churches of the approach and interpret Holy Scripture. This, in Each church has its own historic and cultural Anglican Communion by Jan. 1, 2008. turn, has an impact on their understanding of the context in which the grace of God is active, content of ‘the faith’ as revealed in Scripture.” particularly in those matters that involve the The Episcopal Church Response Process On the Covenant’s required commitment to mystery of persons. Similarly, it is not at all clear To help The Episcopal Church develop an uphold “biblically derived moral values,” the that the churches of the Communion could agree appropriate response to the Draft Covenant, response pointed out: “The current crisis within on what constitutes ‘matters of essential concern.’ Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori and the Communion has occurred precisely because The Episcopal Church has been diligent in not President of the House of Deputies Bonnie there is strong disagreement about the content of seeking to impose its understandings on others, Anderson appointed a group that developed a ‘biblically derived moral values and the vision of and instead seeks to work by example. The “Study Guide” with 14 questions relating to the humanity received by and developed in the Episcopal Church deserves the same respect from Draft Covenant. To have broad participation in the communion of member Churches.’ Because this the other member churches of the Communion to process of The Episcopal Church’s Response, disagreement already exists, the attempt to resolve live out our historic faith as it evolves in The interested persons were invited to submit their own these disagreements by adopting language that Episcopal Church.” responses to the Study Guide questions by June 4, assumes that there is agreement is specious, 2007. intellectually dishonest, and harmful to the process Conclusions and Recommendations of the These individual responses will be considered of developing true communion.” Responses by the Executive Council of The Episcopal Church With regard to the commitment to ensure that In regard to the consequences of entering the when it prepares the Response of The Episcopal “biblical texts are handled faithfully, respectfully, Anglican Covenant as drafted, the response advised: Church to the Covenant at its October 2007 comprehensively and coherently,” the response “The most significant consequence of signing such meeting. The responses, highlighted below, of our asked who would make determinations of whether a Draft Covenant would be an Anglican Communion Executive Board and Clergy and Lay Deputations particular churches were fulfilling this commitment. characterized by a narrow and centralized conciliar were submitted to assist the Executive Council in It asserted: “Members of The Episcopal Church form of government presided over by an un-elected crafting this overall response of The Episcopal who supported the consecration of Gene Robinson Archbishop of Canterbury and a curia of Church. as bishop of New Hampshire and advocate for unaccountable prelates. For The Episcopal Church, greater inclusion of gay and lesbian persons in the signing such a document would compromise a lively • Specific Responses to the Draft Covenant church have adopted these positions as a response democratic church in which governance is shared to their ‘faithful, respectful, comprehensive and by all the baptized — laity, bishops, priests and Should there be a Covenant? coherent’ handling of Holy Scripture. On what basis deacons. Instead, we would have a more hierarchical The response said “there was no easy answer” and by whom will they be challenged?” church required to follow the dictates of a group of as to whether an Anglican Covenant would “help The proposal in the Covenant that the Primates’ Primates, many of whom are accustomed to strengthen the interdependent life of the Anglican Meeting be the arbiter of these issues and In a May 7 letter to John Chidsey, CEO of the matter of time before other fast-food corporations Burger King Corporation, Bishop Leo Frade expressed will realize they, too, must respond to the call for “deep concern for the farmworkers who pick justice and respect for the human rights of the tomatoes that supply Burger King farmworkers. I call on Burger King to reconsider its restaurants” and called on Burger King to rejection of the CIW’s demands, which was accept the model for farmworker justice developed announced publicly in February of this year. Your by the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW). corporation has the opportunity to re-open the door “During the Advent season last year, I wrote to to negotiations with the CIW, and join Yum Brands you urging that Burger King address this issue, and and McDonald’s in being industry leaders in social am disappointed to see that instead, your corporation responsibility.” (See Page 10 for further reflections has taken proactive steps to the contrary,” Frade by the bishop on this issue). said. Last September the Executive Board of the Diocese “The Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) has of Southeast Florida adopted a resolution that “(1) established a working model for corporate social endorses the Alliance for Fair Food — a network of responsibility that advances and ensures the human human rights, religious, student, labor and grassroots rights of farmworkers in the corporate supply chain. organizations which work in partnership with the As you know, McDonald’s has now joined Yum Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) to promote Brands in partnering with the CIW, and it is only a It’s incredibly useful. I think everybody would benefit from doing it...... — Fr. Mark Sims, describing individuals with immigration Riskeeper program problems. The current immigration debate in this country gives new urgency to the need for the church to have a staff person designated to address these issues, Frade says. congregations — St. Andrew’s, Lake Worth; “We need to be involved in St. Nicholas, Pompano Beach; St. this issue,” he says. “I respect Benedict’s, Plantation; Iglesia La Trinidad, much more someone who’s Miami; and All Angels, Miami Springs, totally opposed [to my views on among others. immigration] than someone “It was nice to be able to share a casual who’s just not involved.” Memorial Hospital. He is currently legislators for reforms that would moment with the bishop and to express Bazin has been rector of St. dean of the North Dade Deanery. be both fair and compassionate. our love and appreciation for him and his Paul et les Martyrs d’Haiti, Born in Haiti, Bazin is fluent in He urged them to “be a voice for ministry,” says Natalie Blasco-Buehler, Miami, since early 1982; the English, Spanish, French and those who are voiceless in this former senior warden of the La Divina parish celebrated 25 years of its Creole, and moves easily among community and ensure that Providencia congregation, whose members — and his — ministry in Miami’s the ethnic groups and cultures that Christian charity and compassion joined All Angels last year. “Thanks to him, Haitian community on June 16. In make up the diocese. remain a part of this debate.” La Divina Providencia is a fond memory and the early 90s he was the diocesan He has long been a supporter of Bazin plans to work from the all of the negative experiences have been Program Officer for Haitian immigration reform. In a memo to Diocesan Office three days a week, forgotten. We will truly miss him.” Ministry and served for several diocesan clergy in January he but will also continue his ministry The Hispanic Commission, the Haitian years as a chaplain at Jackson asked his colleagues to call on as rector of St. Paul’s. Commission, the black clergy of the diocese, and the South Florida Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice, of which Ottley has served as president since 2005, also held events in his honor. On Ascension Day, May 17, Trinity to a photographic inventory of church facilities and The parish already has a disaster preparedness Cathedral held a service of Choral Evensong furnishings. The program stores all this information, committee that includes the junior warden and the “honoring the ministry of Bishop James including parish financial and archival records, on Men’s Club, and in previous years this group has Ottley.” the Church Restoration Group server in Pennsylvania implemented a system to call parishioners “to make In his sermon that evening Ottley reflected for immediate access after a hurricane or other sure everyone’s all right.” that Ascension is “not the end, but the disaster. Each congregation’s data is confidential She is impressed with the Riskeeper program. “I beginning.” and password-protected. like the fact that they have everything in one place. Ascension reminds us that a resurrection The program can also be used as a site where That will be very convenient — we’ll have a point of has to take place within us, he said. parishioners can access current information in an reference if anything does happen this year.” “We rise above our inadequacies, above emergency. Bill Hurd, parish administrator at St. Paul’s, Delray self — and our response must be that we are The program is still under development, and there Beach, also appreciates having all the necessary indeed our sister’s, our brother’s keeper. is no date yet for release churchwide. Representatives information in one place. He says the Riskeeper Ascension calls us to work with God in God’s of Church Restoration Group and Church Insurance program “will be basically our disaster preparedness saving plan to care for all of God’s people.” have indicated that they have already made some manual — we’re incorporating our plan into that.” Cathedral Dean Douglas McCaleb thanked changes in the program based on feedback from the He says St. Paul’s is also using the parish’s Ottley, “our pastor,” for his ministry, his March workshops in our diocese. PowerChurch software to set up a template to send perseverance and his commitment to justice. Participants here were enthusiastic about what immediate bulk email to the congregation’s hurricane The diocesan staff said their goodbyes to they gained from the program. preparedness team when a storm threatens. Ottley with a luncheon on May 24. At that “It’s incredibly useful,” says Fr. Mark Sims, rector “It takes three days to shutter this property,” he event Bishop Leo Frade commented, “If of St. Mary Magdalene, Coral Springs. “I think says, “even with four or five guys to do it!” anyone is going to miss Jim, it will be people everybody would benefit from doing it.” Even the best online preparedness program doesn’t who are not here — those who cannot find a Sims says he entered a great deal of parish data take the physical work out of getting ready. job, those who have been fired for demanding the day of the workshop, and is working with his justice, those who have been discriminated junior warden to be ready to use the program by late For those who were not able to participate in the against.” summer — the active months of the hurricane season. Riskeeper workshops, guidelines by the diocesan Thanks to Ottley, Frade said, “Now we have Dorothy Sterling, a lay leader at St. Philip’s, Disaster Response Task Force to help parishes the vision [of diversity] — God does not want Pompano Beach, says “it was a group effort” to get prepare for hurricanes and other emergencies are a boring garden.” data entered into the program before the workshop. posted at http://www.diosef.org/hurricane.html.

autocratic governance with little accountability to set of understandings or uniform practices. Clergy and Lay Deputies to the General Convention others.” Moreover, there is no system of ‘checks and from the diocese. The members of the Executive In summation, the responses concluded: “The balances’ and no means to protect the decisions Board who dissented were William Carr, the Rev. Draft repeatedly assumes agreement to terms and and actions of a faithful minority from the whims David Peoples and the Rev. George Ronkowitz. understandings across the Communion where there and excesses of a determined majority. Given these The full text of the responses is at is little or no agreement and great architectural weaknesses, the Draft Covenant http://chipstokesblog.blogspot.com:80/ and misunderstanding. Upon this weak foundation, the creates the possibility for capriciousness and the www.diosef.org. drafters build an architecture for the Communion abuse of power, especially by those Primates of the that includes mechanisms for member churches to Communion who have already shown themselves Fr. William H. (“Chip”) Stokes and Tom O’Brien be disciplined. Within the Communion, there is no capable of excessive use of power across national were the authors of the responses. Stokes is the constitutionally-established body legitimately boundaries.” Rector of St. Paul’s, Delray Beach, and O’Brien is empowered to exercise and enforce this discipline, The responses were approved by 27 (out of 30) secretary of the diocese. Both were diocesan nor any agreed-to canons that establish a common members of the Executive Board and by all the deputies to General Convention 2006. Bishop Leo Frade and four clergy ministry and to make a more the private conversation she had with from our diocese — Canon Fritz significant and meaningful the bishops. However, she said she Bazin, Fr. Winston Joseph, Fr. contribution to the growth and was “grateful for the opportunity to Earl Henry and Dean Winston development of the culture of the share that different context and the Wright — were among the Episcopal Church.” desire for culturally appropriate Episcopal clergy and laity from the Presiding Bishop Katharine expressions of the Gospel.” U.S. who joined with representatives Jefferts Schori addressed the group “I think that’s what we are of the Church in the Province of the on May 30, telling them that it is in struggling with in the Episcopal West Indies at the Caribbean conversation, as St. Benedict says, Church; that’s what each part of the Anglican Consultation at the Crowne "listening with the ear of the heart, Anglican Church is struggling with: Plaza Hotel in Queens, New York, that we come to know God and God's how to live out the Gospel faithfully May 28-31. will and desire for each one of us.” in this place we call home,” she said. If we’re able to lower the The newly elected suffragan “If we’re able to lower the anxiety Calling current immigration anxiety levels enough to where bishops of Cuba were also invited, levels enough to where we would policies “a national shame,” Jefferts we would have but the U.S. State have conversation, there’s the Schori said that governmental levels conversation, there’s the Department denied them possibility that all of us can be continually forget “we are a nation entry based on Article 251 converted into something that looks of immigrants.” possibility that all of us which deemed them a more Godly,” she said. “Immigration makes this country can be converted into danger to the security of Davis said that Jefferts Schori’s run; immigration is also an incredibly something that looks more this country. presence was important because “it hot political football in this country,” Godly...... The four-day conference, opens the lines of communication” she explained. themed “Hol’ Strain: Redeeming for the church in the West Indies “The Episcopal Church has — Presiding Bishop Katharine the Time,” included daily worship “and ensures that they understand repeatedly taken stances on past Jefferts Schori and workshops led by lay and what her vision is for the Episcopal resolutions at General Convention in clergy on leadership development Church.” favor of a just immigration policy. for congregational development, “Her presence made a very positive Our office in Washington continues and clergy wellness with a impression,” says Frade. to advocate with our governmental concentration on compensation Jefferts Schori held a question and representatives and with the The April issue of The Net and benefits for licensed clergy. answer period with the plenary of administration for a more fair and incorrectly stated that the Rev. “This is our eighth and largest nearly 150 following a private just immigration policy.” Allison DeFoor was the first attended consultation,” said the meeting with 18 bishops of the On May 29 Bazin spoke to Episcopalian in Florida to be Rev. Canon Kortright Davis of the Caribbean. The questions ranged participants on Haitian immigration ordained inside a prison. The Episcopal Diocese of Washington from her reflections on the Primates’ and the church. Telling of the Rev. Robert Huguenin, who, like and chair of the CAC. “The purpose Meeting, and the proposed policies Haitians who arrived in Miami on DeFoor, serves as a chaplain at Wakulla of the consultation is to re-establish on immigration, to what was March 29 and are still being detained, Correctional Institution in fellowship amongst clergy and laity disclosed during her closed session he outlined the efforts made on their Crawfordville, Fla., was ordained to the who are African American, nurture with the bishops. behalf by church leaders in the priesthood June 29, 2004, at Wakulla. them in terms of ministry on how to Although asked, Jefferts Schori community, including Frade. reinforce the vocation of mission and said she would not disclose any of

principles and practices of socially responsible purchasing in the corporate food industry to advance the human On Sunday, May 19, some of the rights of farmworkers; (2) encourages worshipers at Trinity Cathedral, study and appropriate action on these Miami, found themselves matters by missions and parishes in caught in the first downpour of the Diocese of Southeast Florida; and this year’s rainy season — as (3) urges the Executive Council of The they sat in the pews. Rain came down Episcopal Church to consult with the in parts of the nave, water was several CIW before responding on behalf of inches deep in the narthex and carpet The Episcopal Church to possible calls in the cathedral office was soaked. for boycotts and other actions, The 2005 hurricane season shareholder resolutions and peaceful severely damaged the roof of our public witness as means of advancing diocesan cathedral, peeling back the the goals of this Resolution.” copper panels, exposing the wood Our diocese is also represented in and the plaster ceilings beneath it. South Florida Interfaith Worker Justice, Emergency repairs were made last an organization which actively supports summer, and held through a the goals of CIW; for the past year mercifully quiet hurricane season; Assistant Bishop James Ottley was the but now the rain is back, and so are organization’s president. the leaks. On May 15, Fr. Frank Corbishley, Church Insurance has been rector of Chapel of the Venerable Bede, working with Dean Douglas McCaleb Coral Gables, and Episcopal chaplain and the Cathedral Chapter since last at the University of Miami, participated summer to determine what kinds of in an IWJ delegation to Burger King long-term repairs will be needed to headquarters, where he gave a copy of prevent further damage to the Frade’s letter to Steve Grover, Burger historic structure. King’s vice president of Public Relations The cathedral did receive some and Compliance. Mewelau Hall, a UM good news at the beginning of June: • Workers begin to stretch the familiar blue tarp over student and member of Historic St. It is the recipient of a United Thank the roof of Trinity Cathedral after a rainy weekend in May Agnes, Miami, also participated in the Offering grant of $23,000 “to make revealed new leaks. delegation. renovations which will enable the The Episcopal Church has a history cathedral to respond to the increasing about half of the applications had to “I hope that by the time the diocese of supporting a living wage for all needs of its growing Christian be rejected. gathers at the cathedral on Nov. 2 workers and concern for migrant education and outreach ministries, McCaleb says that this grant for for our annual diocesan convention, workers. Farm workers earn sub- including its homeless feeding renovations, along with the repairs progress will be substantially poverty wages for picking tomatoes for program.” covered by Church Insurance, will underway,” he says. suppliers of the retail food industry. The award is just over 50 percent help in the short term to keep the However, he adds, the cathedral Their wages (40-45 cents per 32-pound of the amount requested, in a year cathedral from deteriorating further and the diocese will need to address bucket) have remained stagnant for when requests for UTO funding far and to make it a more usable venue at some point the longer-term repairs more than 25 years and their median exceeded the dollars available and for all its ministries. and capital improvements required. annual income (roughly $10,000) is far below the poverty level. Farm workers are not covered by the National Labor Relations Act, and therefore lack the second major fast-food company to work with the workers who pick those tomatoes; and the right basic rights guaranteed workers in most other the CIW to improve farmworker wages and working for farmworkers to participate, through the CIW, industries. conditions. in the development and implementation of an In 2005, after a four-year boycott, the CIW The Taco Bell and McDonald’s agreements enforceable code of conduct, including an effective reached an agreement with Taco Bell to address include commitments by these corporations to pay avenue for worker reports of violations, allowing the poverty and degradation of farmworkers in a penny per pound more for their tomatoes, with workers to play an ongoing role in the monitoring Florida. On April 9 of this year, McDonald’s became the entire amount to be passed on as a pay raise to and protection of their own rights. [ENS] Expressing “deep concern” for the March 25, according to an independent U.K./U.S. situation in Iraq, more than 100 bishops of the group, the Iraq Body Count project (IBC). Episcopal Church sent a letter on May 16 to On considering Iraq’s future, the bishops urged all U.S. Senators and Representatives Congress and the Administration to engage in “a outlining the need for “a careful and reasoned careful and reasoned debate that avoids the debate” to end the violence “and bring stability partisan and harsh rhetoric that would diminish and a just peace to the region.” the important issues before our nation.” They noted Bishop Leo Frade and retired Bishops Calvin O. that such a debate did not occur in 2002 “and, Schofield, Jr., and John Said were among those with the notable exception of the Iraq Study Group, who signed the letter. it is only marginally occurring now.” The letter was also signed by Presiding Bishop “For the sake of all those involved, and to honor Katharine Jefferts Schori and two former presiding those brave women and men who have been bishops, the Rt. Revs. Frank Griswold and Edmond maimed and lost, we encourage full and open Browning. discussion that acknowledges our mistakes as well The bishops recalled an October 2002 letter to as our responsibilities,” the letter continued. “It is Congress in which they expressed their belief our hope that this discussion will lead to policies that going to war with Iraq was not justified. that will end the violence in Iraq and bring stability “Now we write again to express our deepest and a just peace to the region.” concern for the situation in Iraq and for The bishops identified six imperative goals for our servicemen and women,” the May 16 the U.S., including mapping out a strategy for a letter said. “We are filled with sorrow as responsible transition to Iraqi governance; joining we witness how our worst fears of what those in the region, including Syria and Iran, in might ensue from war in Iraq become seeking security and economic recovery for Iraq; Our missionaries in Africa, the Rt. Rev. Todd reality.” and providing the women and men of the military McGregor, area bishop of Tulear in Madagascar, In particular, the bishops noted the families and their families with the sustained and responsive and his wife, the Rev. Patsy McGregor, and communities that “have been broken both care they need. director of St. Julian's Center in Limuru, in body and in spirit as service members are They also acknowledged the need for the U.S. Kenya, plan to be in Florida this summer separated from their families for extraordinary to work for religious freedom and protection of and fall. periods of time, suffer mounting casualties, and religious minorities in Iraq; serve the needs of Both will be here Aug. 9-19, and Sept. 12- all with no end of violence in sight.” To date, Iraqi refugees wherever they may be; and seek 30. Bishop McGregor more than 50 Episcopal chaplains have served peace in the region, including a two-state solution will leave Oct. 1, but in harm’s way in Iraq, Afghanistan and in between Israelis and Palestinians. his wife will stay support bases in Kuwait and other Middle East “In the Episcopal Church’s Book of Common through Nov. 10 and neighboring states. Presently, there is one Prayer, we ask that the spirit of wisdom be given plans to be at our Episcopal chaplain in Iraq, one in Afghanistan to those whom we entrust with the authority of Diocesan Convention, and three in Kuwait. government; with that authority comes great Nov. 2-3. The bishops also acknowledged that “the respect responsibility,” the letter concluded. “We pray that Anyone wishing to our nation once enjoyed and our relations with the spirit of wisdom will be with each of you and schedule a visit from allies have been seriously undermined.” help guide us to a just and lasting peace.” them during their time Into its fifth year, the war in Iraq has claimed here should contact them soon: Bishop Todd the lives of more than 3,300 U.S. Soldiers and left The complete text of the letter can be found at McGregor, [email protected], or the Rev. at least 25,000 seriously injured. As many as http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/E Patsy McGregor, [email protected]. 65,000 Iraqi civilian deaths were reported by LO_051607_HOBIraqLetter.pdf.

He praised the Presiding Bishop for the Bahamas, the Anglican Church in included the Rev. Michael Battle, was glad to have the opportunity to her support of the Haitian immigrants’ Turks and Caicos Island, the Bishop associate dean for Academic Affairs meet and talk with several bishops of appeal for Temporary Protected of Grand Cayman to call on their and vice president and associate the Church in the Province of the West Status. government and people to treat professor of Theology at Virginia Indies whom he hadn’t previously He also called on “our sisters and Haitians seeking refuge in their lands Theological Seminary in Alexandria, known. brothers of the Caribbean and the with fairness and compassion,” Bazin Va.; the Rev. Canon Angela Ifill, Office of Black Ministries to continue said. missioner of Black Ministries for the This story includes material from with us in the struggle, calling on our “Please keep our brothers and Episcopal Church; and the Rev. Canon an article by Daphne Mack for Senators and members of Congress to sisters in Haiti and the Dominican Nelson W. Pinder, president of the Episcopal Life Online. Her complete grant Temporary Protected Status to Republic in your continued prayers. Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE). report can be found at Haitians.” We count on your solidarity.” “This conference has been http://www.episcopalchurch.org/7 “We invite the Bishops of Nassau, Other speakers at the consultation excellent,” said Frade, adding that he 9901_86488_ENG_HTM.htm. Last year the Southeast Florida Episcopal Foundation became Episcopal Charities — a new name to reflect the June 30 is the application deadline for 2008 Human Needs organization’s expansion of or Smith Charity Fund grants for parish-based outreach its ministry to become the ministries. The application form is available online at primary philanthropic arm of the http://www.episfoundation.org/grant_app.html. diocese. The Matthew 25 Committee, a combined committee Over the past five years, representing both funds, will review all applications. Basic through the Blair and Agnes eligibility requirements for applicants include: Programs must Smith Charity Fund, the have a congregational connection with one or more Episcopal Foundation — and now Episcopal parishes of the Diocese of Southeast Florida; members of a Charities — has funded congregation are actively involved in the program; the approximately $800,000 in congregation provides some financial or in-kind support to grants to 45 parish-based the program; and there must be proof of 501(c)3 tax exempt outreach ministries to children, status (not required if your church is covered by the Diocesan youth and the aged throughout 501(c)3 group status) as well as audit for an independent the diocese. nonprofit. Episcopal Charities also Grant awards will be announced Nov. 15, and funds will be administers the Marcelle Hull disbursed in Jan. 2008. For additional information, contact The Net was again honored in the annual Littell Trust, through which it Episcopal Charities, 561-799-6424. Polly Bond Awards at the Episcopal has distributed more Communicators conference, held than $350,000 in April 25-28 in Virginia Beach, Va. grants to seniors living continuing the mission of the “Without individual The newspaper received an in assisted living Foundation in working to contributions, frankly, we could Award of Merit (second place) for facilities. EC has strengthen overall fundraising, not do what we have been doing,” General Excellence among publications with provided emergency relief engagement of donors, the says Charlie Ring, president of circulations of 12,000 or above. grants for congregations and creation of field of interest Episcopal Charities. The judge called the paper “clearly organized, parishioners affected by funding and the creation of donor An envelope for your donation loaded with an impressive array of hurricanes. advised funds, and assists is provided in this issue of The content… very colorful” and particularly praised The Grants Committee of parishes in educating about Net. If you have not received an the coverage of General Convention. Episcopal Charities is now in planned giving and establishing envelope, you may send your A front-page feature photograph by editor its second year of collaboration endowment funds. contribution directly to Episcopal Mary W. Cox, “Sacred Path,” published in the with diocesan Human Needs Financial support for this wide Charities, 8895 N. Military Trail, June 2006 issue, also received an Award of Ministry to create a single range of ongoing ministries Suite 205-C, Palm Beach Merit. The same photo had received an simplified application process cannot simply wait for more Gardens, FL 33410. You may also honorable mention in the annual awards of the for parish requests for social generous bequests, like the donate online at www.diosef.org; Associated Church Press a few days earlier. outreach ministry grants. (See legacies of the Smiths and click on “donations” and indicate Since 2000, Dioecese of Southeast Forida box, above). Marcell Hull Littell — continuing that your gift is for Episcopal publications have received 29 Polly Bond Awards. Episcopal Charities is also donations are needed. Charities.

In our rapidly changing the value of simply being away culture, clergy rarely take time from the normal routine. to do intentional planning “The Nehemiah Retreat for their ministries, provided much needed time to observes Archdeacon break away from the daily work to Bryan Hobbs. do some serious evaluation and “This is something that all future planning,” said Alan professionals do,” he says. “This Kelmereit, a parishioner at Good is something that Jesus did.” Shepherd, LaBelle, in the Diocese The Nehemiah Clergy Retreat, of Southwest Florida, who is May 1-3 at the Lake Placid working with the Glades Area Retreat Center, Lake Placid, Fla., Ministry. was designed, says Hobbs, to set The Rev. Cori Olson, priest-in- a model for clergy and lay leaders charge at St. Luke the Physician, to do sufficient planning to Miami, commented, “We all know “engage in more positive and that Jesus went away to pray, but creative change — not just letting it is hard for me to get out of the circumstances dictate to you.” trenches to look at the landscape.” Nine clergy and four lay “In my first 10 months at St. leaders from seven Luke’s, I’ve been finding out what congregations and the Glades people do and reacting to the Area Ministry spent the two days calendar events. At this retreat, I planning personal and ministry had the opportunity to plan how priorities for the next 12 to 18 I would like to begin to shape the months. ministry here.” The retreat also included “The retreat offered me the “quiet fun times,” says Hobbs, opportunity to focus on my “time for listening to the Lord, ministry and my responsibility to to oneself and to each other.” not only my parish and school but Fr. Bob Deshaies, rector of St. more importantly to myself and Benedict’s, Plantation, called the my family,” said Fr. Jose retreat “a significant experience.” McLoughlin, associate and day “I had three expectations: I got plenty of rest, and the Holy Spirit wants me to do.” school chaplain at St. Stephen’s, simplicity, rest and inspiration,” he directed me to pick up and read a book “There was a great balance of quiet Miami. said. titled Breakout Churches by Thom time and group discussion,” said the “I believe this experience gave me “All three of these expectations were Rainer. I read the entire book with a Rev. Denise Hudspeth, rector of St. the community, time and space to met, much to my surprise. The Holy sense of excitement — it was an Margaret’s, Miami Lakes. “There was ‘chart direction’ and move on,” said Spirit had a surprise in store for me. answer to many of the questions I had time to listen and be listened to.” Fr. Horace Ward, rector of Holy The message at the retreat was simple, and helped me to focus on what God Several participants remarked on Family, Miami Gardens.

Bishop Leo Frade is planning There will also be a day in Jordan in the home of a Palestinian family. donation to Our Little Roses another pilgrimage to the Holy Land; and a day in the historic city of Petra. The reservation deadline is Nov. 13, Ministries. A deposit of $250 per the trip is scheduled for Jan. 15- In addition, pilgrims will have an but as of June 1, bookings were already person is due at the time of booking. 29, 2008. opportunity to visit the Israel at over 50 percent of capacity. For complete information and a The 2008 pilgrimage will Museum, to attend services at St. The cost is $3,845 per person, reservation form, call Globe Travel, include visits to Jerusalem, Nazareth, George’s Cathedral in Jerusalem, to double occupancy (additional $595 305-823-3939. A complete itinerary Cana, Capernaum, Mt. Nebo, Jericho meet leaders of the Episcopal Church for single accommodations); included and a reservation form are posted at and other significant biblical sites. in the Holy Land and to have lunch in the cost is a $200 tax-deductible www.diosef.org. The 38th convention of the Diocese of Southeast of the nominee, are due by Oct. 19. Nominations Florida will be held Nov. 2-3 at Trinity Cathedral, not received by that date must be made from the Miami, hosted by the North Dade Deanery. floor of convention. The speaker will be Bishop Timothy Nominations are needed for the following Whitaker of the Florida Council of the United positions: four clergy deputies, four clergy Methodist Church. General Convention 2006 alternates, four lay deputies and four lay alternates approved a relationship of Interim Sharing of the to General Convention 2009; one clergy member Eucharist between the United Methodist Church and two lay members of the diocesan Standing and the Episcopal Church, and this will be an Committee; two clergy members and one lay opportunity for the diocese to begin, in the words member of the Ecclesiastical Trial Court; one lay of the resolution, “development of a common life trustee of the University of the South; and one through mutual prayer and support, study of the clergy member of the Cathedral Chapter. respective churches’ history and traditions, joint Proposed amendments, resolutions and programs and use of facilities.” nominations should be sent by email to the According to deadlines set by diocesan canons, secretary of convention, Mr. Thomas G. O’Brien proposed amendments to the canons must be III at [email protected], copied to submitted by Aug. 8, and resolutions by Sept. [email protected], or by mail to Gail McShane, 18. Diocese of Southeast Florida, 525 NE 15 St., Miami, Nominations, with a short biography FL 33132.

Deacon Mary Beth Wells, Fuller, who is currently interim sound footing,” he says, in its who retires this month from rector at Holy Trinity, West Palm preparation of candidates for her diaconal ministry at Beach. ordained ministries. He adds that St. Paul’s, Delray Beach, A Presbyterian pastor for 35 one of his hopes for the school is has also retired as head years before being received into to “expand participation by of the Diocesan School for the Episcopal Church, Fuller has laypersons who want to broaden Christian Studies, a position a doctorate in family therapy, and their education for their own lay she has held since the 2003- leads retreats and workshops on ministries.” 2004 term. contemplative prayer and The catalogue and registration [ENS] On April 20, The Episcopal Church’s The new head of the Benedictine spirituality. form for the fall term will soon Office of Communication launched a new website, Diocesan School is Fr. Perry The Diocesan School “is on a be posted at www.diosef.org. www.globalgood.org, focused on the top mission priority set by the General Convention in 2006 — to carry out peace and justice ministries framed by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The site “should be viewed as a portal,” said Daphne Mack, a communication specialist in the Episcopal Church’s Office of Communication and site editor of globalgood.org. “Visitors to the site will learn about the MDGs, find out what kind of work the Episcopal Church and other organizations are doing to address the urgency of the goals and the environment, and more importantly how they can get involved and make a difference.” Adopted by the United Nations in 2000, the MDGs seek to reduce global poverty by half by the year 2015. The eight goals include eradication of hunger and preventable illness, and achievement of environmental sustainability. Globalgood.org has been designed to provide a clear message coupled with ease of navigation. The links to organizations and current events have been categorized for general audiences and youth, as well as emphasizing environmental initiatives and opportunities for action. “The new site is offered to support Episcopalians in helping to achieve the MDGs,” said Canon Robert Williams, the Episcopal Church’s director of communication. “Our hope is to widen collaboration locally, regionally, churchwide and internationally around the vision set by the Presiding Bishop and the General Convention, which the Office of Government Relations is helping Episcopalians carry out in partnership with Episcopal Relief and Development and other groups.” Contributions of stories, resources, and photographs are welcome from across the church to this ever-evolving site and may be sent to Daphne Mack at [email protected].

• Deacon Mary Beth Wells (back row, right) stands with the final graduating class of her tenure as head of the Diocesan School. The graduates are (front row, left-right) Ruben Cao, Dolores • www.episcopalchurch.org: The central Suyama and Ellen Newton and (back row, left-right) Beryl Cooper, Etta Stella and Ann Goraczko. website of The Episcopal Church, with links to a variety of news and resources. • www.episcopalchurch.org/elife: Episcopal Life Online, current churchwide news from Episcopal Life, the monthly newspaper of the Episcopal Church, and The Annual Seafarers’ House Interfaith www.seafarershouse.org — click on special events. Episcopal News Service. Luncheon will take place August 18 aboard Royal All proceeds from this event will benefit the • http://episcopalchurch.typepad. Caribbean International’s “Enchantment of ministry of Seafarers’ House at Port Everglades; com/episcope: epiScope, a daily blog of the Seas,” which will be docked in Port Royal Caribbean is donating the cocktail reception mainstream media coverage of the Episcopal Everglades Terminal 25. and luncheon. Church, providing an opportunity to correct The event will begin with registration and Seafarers’ House provides a variety of services, or amend these stories or to offer reflection. embarkation at 11:15 a.m.; cocktail reception at include communications, wire transfers, Internet • www.globalgood.org: Resources on the 12:15 p.m. and luncheon at 1:30 p.m. café, retail store, rest and relaxation, advocacy, Millennium Development Goals and Disembarkation is at 2:30 p.m. counsel and religious services aboard ships to the environmental stewardship. Open seating is $40 per person. This event is crews of cruise and cargo ships from around the open to only 200 guests. Registration is at world. On April 15 Bethesda- year. Fleming has served in by-the-Sea, Palm Beach, many leadership positions celebrated Fr. Ralph in the parish, most recently “Hap” Warren’s 40th as leader of the J2A youth anniversary as a group. Meade has been a • At a Mothers’ Day tea on May priest and 25th anniversary member of St. Paul’s 11 at St. Joseph’s School, Boynton as rector of Bethesda with Hurricane Response • St. Paul’s, Delray Beach, Beach, Manisha Patel models a a festive luncheon that was Committee — through honored Deacon Mary Beth lavishly decorated hat made for her highlighted by many Frances, Jeanne and Wilma Wells (left), who retires June by her son, second-grader Sagar reminiscences, — and was recently a 24, with an April 27 reception Patel. In addition to the hand-made entertainment by “Elvis” member of a mission team at the Gulf Stream Bath and hats, the second-graders served and gifts that included a to Our Little Roses in Tennis Club. Patsy Westal their mothers tea from teapots book of prayers written by Honduras. (center) read an original poem decorated with poetry about “mom” children in the parish’s In April, Grace about the deacon’s ministry, and gave them cookbooks with Sunday School. Dickenson-Grant received to the delight of Wells and special recipes. On May 27 Bethesda the Bishop’s Lay Ministry fellow-parishioner Mary honored the 20th Award at St. James-in- Walton (right). anniversary of Harold E. the-Hills, Hollywood. Pysher as organist and Her landscaping ministry choirmaster with Evensong keeps the church grounds followed by a reception. looking attractive and St. Christopher’s, welcoming. West Palm Beach, hosted On May 19 the acolytes the North Palm Beach at St. Kevin’s, Opa- Deanery Meeting on March locka, held a Black and 31. White Ball, which was Holy Trinity, West attended by youth from Palm Beach, plans a several other parishes in the “Rockin’ Around the 4th of North and South Dade July 50s Party” from 6-9 Deaneries. The purpose, p.m. on July 4. There will says St. Kevin’s deacon-in- be prizes for the best 50s charge, Joanne Katon, was costumes and a dance to provide the youth with contest, as well as a 50s- “an elegant evening in a style dinner and a good Christian setting, and to viewing spot for fireworks. show them that a formal, St. Luke’s, Port dressed-up event could be Salerno, commissioned fun.” On May 26 St. Stephen Ministers Tom Church of the Joseph’s, Boyton Clements, Ginny Gearhart, Resurrection, Biscayne Beach, celebrated the Mary Hinman, Susan Park, has been making 100th birthday of Adams, Richard Hinman, required upgrades to its longtime parishioner Alison Sharp and Barbara property in preparation for Ruby van Rooyen. A Hartley on April 29. Jeanne opening a preschool by the competitive ballroom Couillard is the parish’s end of the summer. dancer for many years, Stephen Ministry leader. A dinner theater van Rooyen treated Stephen Ministers are production of Rodgers and guests at her party to trained to provide a Hammerstein’s “The King a dance exhibition ministry of presence and and I” on April 1 at St. with her longtime one-on-one pastoral care to Francis in the Keys, Big dancing instructor and people experiencing Pine Key, featured the partner Tommy Del difficult situations. rector, Fr. Chris Todd, as Flore. A major donor All Saints’, Jensen King Mongkut. The toward construction of Beach, is doing something performance raised more the parish hall named “green” (and raising a little than $1,000 to benefit a in her honor, she was • Fr. James P. “Jamie” Jones acknowledges the money) with the addition of longtime lay leader, who is St. Joseph’s recipient welcome of his parishioners at St. Matthew the a recycling dumpster on the seriously ill, and her family. of the Bishop’s Lay Apostle, Miami, at his service of Institution as rector church grounds. On Palm Sunday, Ministry Award for on April 15. In addition to Bishop Leo Frade and Parishioners and neighbors Assistant Bishop James this year. Archdeacon Mary Gray-Reeves (pictured), South are asked to bring all kinds Ottley presented the Dade Dean Mother Jennie Lou Reid participated of discarded paper, and Bishop’s Lay Ministry in the service and St. Matthew’s interim rector, Fr. when the dumpster is full, Awards for St. Francis to Perry Fuller, was the preacher. the parish will receive $17 one of the congregation’s a ton for the recyclable founding members, Helen material. Moore, and posthumously, On July 20 St. Mary’s, to Bill Richards, who had Stuart, will observe a been a lay reader, choir milestone — the burning of member, volunteer for the mortgage! The three numerous special projects new buildings have been and “unofficial sexton.” paid for, and the parish is Richards’ award was now debt-free. accepted by his daughter, The Rev. Scott Petersen, Melanie Normand. a recent graduate of Virginia Children and youth at St. Theological Paul’s, Key West, were Seminary, has ushers, lectors and • The Rev. Christina accepted a call presenters of the oblations Encinosa, priest-in-charge to be assistant at the parish’s Youth of Holy Redeemer, Lake rector at Good Sunday on April 29. Worth, plays “Taps” at the Shepherd, St. Paul’s held its First Veterans’ Memorial at Tequesta, Annual Parish Dance on Woodlawn Cemetery in beginning in May 4. Miami on Memorial Day. On July. At its second annual Armed Forces Day, May 19, After the successful Canon John H. Reece, Jr., Encinosa was at the South “Done in a Day” project, Memorial Scholarship Florida National Cemetery making renovations at the Banquet on May 19, St. in Lake Worth, playing PANDA facility for pregnant Peter’s, Key West, “Taps” at 11 a.m., along with and addicted women, Good awarded $4,000 in buglers at 125 VA cemeteries Shepherd asked its scholarships, ranging from around the country. • When Bishop Leo Frade members for a “Done in $1,000 to $200, to eight visited St. Gregory’s, Boca Five Minutes” outreach for high school graduates in Raton, on May 13, the PANDA clients — a Key West. The top award of fellowship breakfast after commitment to pray for five $1,000 went to Alicia the service included minutes each day for the Castillo. Other winners mariachi music, combining women and their babies. were Marcus Bolden, the celebration of Mothers’ Sherry Fleming and John Arquedia Bousquet, Day with a belated Meade were honored with Sharneka Brooks, Evita observance of Cinco de the Bishop’s Lay Ministry Copeland, Andrea Jacobs, Mayo. Award at St. Paul’s, Gregory James and Delray Beach, earlier this Eboniece Williamson. Will you strive for justice and peace among human rights abuses and sub-poverty wages all people, and respect the dignity of every facing Florida farmworkers. Even now, after the human being? I will, with God’s help. (BCP recent expansion of the agreement to include page 305). McDonald’s, as well as all Yum Brands restaurant chains, the Miami headquartered Burger King “Why is the bishop fighting with Burger King,” (the second largest fast-food chain) continues to a parishioner recently asked one of our priests. refuse to do the right thing. I am sure the question was in reference to a letter If you are willing to join me in that I wrote to Mr. John Chidsey, the CEO of striving for justice for the Burger King. (See story, Page 3). farmworkers in Immokalee, here Actually I am not fighting with Burger King are a few things that you can do: but rather engaged in a peaceful effort, along 1). Deliver letters to the managers with the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), of local Burger King restaurants other religious leaders and people of faith from explaining the situation in the fields across the country to encourage Burger King to and asking that they pass the letter on to Burger do what is right: to ensure fair treatment and King Corporate Headquarters. For a sample letter We must see everything, and everyone, more just wages for farmworkers in their supply see www.ciw-online.org/tools.html. as interconnected and intended by God to chains. 2). Send postcards to Burger King urging the live in relationship...... Every Sunday when I visit a congregation company to work with the Coalition of Immokalee for baptisms or confirmations I use the Workers. You may contact [email protected] Baptismal Covenant found in our Book or [email protected] for Burger King — Presiding Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schori of Common Prayer. This covenant asks postcards for your parish. us to commit ourselves to “strive for 3). Donate equipment to the CIW’s Community justice and peace among all people, and Center, to be open July 2007. The CIW is relying respect the dignity of every human largely on donations to furnish the new center Official publication of the being.” If I am to strive for justice and and needs meeting tables, office furniture, chairs, Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida peace among all people, then I cannot overlook kitchen equipment and other materials. Contact Episcopal Communicators’ Award of Excellence a corporation with its corporate headquarters Sarah Osmer, [email protected] or 239- “General Excellence” for the year 2000 within the boundaries of our diocese that 986-9101, for more information. refuses to address the human rights crisis in 4). Invite a CIW farmworker leader to speak The Rt. Rev. Leo Frade, Bishop its supply chain, refuses to accept a stronger in your church. code of conduct for conditions in the fields 5). Include a bulletin insert about Burger King The Rt. Rev. James Ottley and refuses to ensure that farmworkers who or have an information table after services. Visit Assistant Bishop harvest each restaurant chain’s tomatoes www.allianceforfairfood.org/faith.html for receive a fairer wage for the tomatoes they materials. The Rt. Rev. Calvin O. Schofield, Jr. pick. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said that “change S.T.D., Retired Bishop Yes, I am my brother's keeper, so I must does not roll on the wheels of inevitability, but respond to the plea of the Florida farmworkers comes through continuous struggle.” I believe The Rt. Rev. John L. Said of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers for justice that with our modest effort we can make a change Retired Bishop Suffragan and dignity. Every day farmworkers in our that will transform the lives of hundreds of beautiful sunny state face sweatshop conditions, human beings who are suffering just a few miles Kathryn Blanton including sub-poverty wages, no raise in nearly from where we live. Convener of Communications Ministry 30 years, and denial of fundamental labor rights Join me in this effort to strive for justice and such as overtime pay and the right to organize peace. With God’s help, you and I can be faithful Mary W. Cox or bargain collectively. In the most extreme cases, to the promise we made in our Baptismal Editor workers are held in modern-day slavery, forced Covenant and make a difference. to work against their will, sometimes with armed Dan Clifford guards 24 hours a day. Layout and Design Editor You may ask: Why Burger King and not the other fast-food chains? Well, the other major + Leo Frade John T. Cox fast-food chains — McDonald’s and Yum Brands’ Proofreader chains (Taco Bell, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza CIW materials are available online at Hut, A & W and Long John Silver’s) — have www.ciw-online.org, or by writing to Coalition Letters to the Editor already agreed to work in partnership with the of Immokalee Workers, P. O. Box 603, The Net welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must include Coalition of Immokalee Workers to address the Immokalee, FL, 34143, or calling 239- 657-8311. the name, address, phone number, and if available, email address, of the writer. Parish affiliation is also requested, when applicable. The Net reserves the right to refuse publication, and to edit letters for length, spelling and grammar. News & Information The Net invites news of parish ministries and activities, as well as commentary on church-related issues and events. Whenever possible, all material should be The following reflections on poverty and Climate change threatens to make the picture submitted electronically or on a disk or CD. Documents sent climate change by Presiding Bishop Katharine even more deadly. As temperature changes as attachments or on disk should be in Word, or in a format Jefferts Schori appeared in the op-ed increase the frequency and intensity of severe that can be opened in Word. Printed material should be an pages of May 20 editions of The San weather events around the world, poor countries original document or a clean photocopy that can be scanned Francisco Chronicle. — which often lack infrastructural commodities — no faxes. like storm walls and water-storage facilities — Please include with all material the name, address, phone number and if available, email address, of the Before I became a priest I was a professor of will divert previous resources away from fighting contributor. Parish affiliation is also requested, when oceanography. One of the things I learned was poverty in order to respond to disaster. Warmer applicable. The Net reserves the right to refuse publication that oceanographers couldn’t just study squid climates will also increase the and to edit all contributions. or fish in isolation. We had to study spread of diseases like malaria, and Photographs should be high-resolution digital files interconnected systems. We had to understand tax the ability of poor countries to or clear prints of film photographs, preferably on glossy paper. not only the animals’ environment, such as the respond adequately. Perhaps most Photographs sized for a website are generally too small for water, but its chemistry and circulation, the severely, changed rain patterns will print. Do not send hard prints made from digital photographs. atmosphere above the ocean and the geology increase the prevalence of drought All material – letters, articles or photos – should be below it. And that, I believe, is how we must in places like Africa, where only 4 submitted electronically to: [email protected], or by mail understand our world: We must see everything, percent of cropped land is irrigated, to: Mary W. Cox, Diocese of Southeast Florida, 525 NE 15 St., Miami, FL 33132-1411. and everyone, as interconnected and intended leaving populations without food and hamstrung by God to live in relationship. in their ability to trade internationally to generate Net Deadline Two of the most significant crises facing our income. The next deadline for The Net is July 10. If you have an world — climate change and deadly poverty — Conversely, just as climate change will announcement or calendar item for events in late August, offer an example of such interconnectedness. By exacerbate poverty, poverty also is hastening September or early October, please have the information to understanding how the two crises, and the people climate change. Most poor people around the The Net by July 10. Mail to Mary W. Cox, DoSEF, 525 NE they affect, are connected, we can begin to world lack access to a reliable-energy source, an 15th St., Miami, FL 33132-1411, or [email protected]. understand how humanity can triumph over imbalance that must be addressed in any attempt both. Extreme poverty — that is, poverty that to lift a community out of poverty. Unfortunately, THE NET (USPS 787-340) is published bimonthly, six times kills — afflicts more than a billion of God’s people financial necessity often forces the choice of a year, in February, April, June, August, October and December around the world. Nearly 30,000 of these people energy sources such as oil and coal that threaten by the Diocese of Southeast Florida. Subscription, $5 annually. will die today. That’s one every three seconds. to expand significantly the world's greenhouse Periodicals postage paid at Miami, Fla., and additional offices. The factors that propel this kind of deadly poverty emissions and thus accelerate the effects of POSTMASTER: Address changes to The Net, 525 N.E. 15th include hunger, diseases like AIDS and malaria, climate change. This cycle — poverty that begets Street, Miami, FL 33132-1411. conflict, lack of access to education and basic climate change, and vice versa — threatens the inequality. By Bob Libby Her marriage to L. Austin Weeks, a geologist like her father, was for life. The month of April 2007 was a significant marker They were married for almost 54 years in the spiritual journey of the Rev. Dr. Marta Sutton and had three children. But, there were Weeks. rough spots including the tragic death On April 22 at her home parish, St. of their son Christopher in a helicopter Andrew’s, Miami, she declared that she had accident in the Everglades, and Austin’s battle “retired.” Oh, she would always be a priest, but with alcoholism. her days of taking on official duties in Southeast A great challenge occurred Florida and Utah had come to an end. Shortly when the Weeks family struck oil afterward it was announced that she had accepted and the family went from tight appointment as chair of the Board of Trustees of budgeting to nearly drowning in the University of Miami. And to cap the eventful the cash flow that swamped their month, her autobiography, Our Lord Was Baptized, lives: Learning to maneuver in You Know, was published. the global economy and handle We had a truly interesting fifty The book, written in her own frank and direct the many requests, subtle and style, chronicles her journey from non-Mormon to not so subtle, that landed at their three and one-half years of marriage. non-Catholic to “needing Christ, wanting Christ, door from charitable organizations and good I wish there had been more...... to welcoming Christ,” on to the priesthood of the causes. It was a tough exercise in Christian Episcopal Church. stewardship. — The Rev. Dr. Marta S. Weeks There are several themes and storylines in this Austin supported Marta in every way book, which are scripted with candor and now and possible in her Christian journey, but he let then with a touch of humor. The thread that ties it be known, in a humorous way, at major church of the “process” she had to go through, including them all together is her pursuit of a meaningful events that he believed the world “would be a better the General Ordination Exams, which she failed prayer life punctuated by some place if there were more the first time around. unplanned holy moments and agnostics.” At the reception Now, with her role as Chair of the Board of all directed to her seeking and • Our Lord Was Baptized, following Marta’s ordination to Trustees of the University of Miami, she enters a knowing the will of God for her You Know, Universe, New York. the priesthood, he remarked, new chapter in her journey. Her relationship to the life. ISBN: 978-0-595-40501-5 “The only way the church is University of Miami goes back to the 80s, when Marta was the great- (pbk), 320 pp., may be ordered going to keep female clergy in she served on the Board under President Tad Foote. granddaughter of a polygamous from Trinity Cathedral line is to send them to the ladies Since 2004 she has been vice-chair, in which Mormon and the daughter of a Bookstore, 305-789-0074 or room.” capacity she was a member of the search committee geologist who traveled the world 800-597-9557 or When Austin died on Feb. 27, that recommended the current president, Donna in search of oil. She was born [email protected], or 2005, just a month short of his Shalala, Health and Human Services Secretary in and spent her early years in the Duncan Center, 561-496- 80th birthday, she wrote, “ I so the Clinton administration. The Center for Argentina and then lived in her 4130, or online from miss his gentle companionship. Recording and Performing Arts at the university is ancestral homestead in Utah, Amazon.com or Barnes and He was a wonderful person in named after her late husband, L. Austin Weeks, before moving to Venezuela. Noble.com. so many ways and we had a truly and in 2002 she and Austin provided the funds in A major theme in her book is interesting fifty three and one- memory of his mother for the Music Library and her struggle to become an half years of marriage. I wish Technology Center at the School of Music. Episcopal priest. Although she was not the first there had been more.” As noted above, Our Lord Was Baptized, You woman ordained to the priesthood in Southeast Episcopalians in Southeast Florida will recognize Know is the autobiography of one woman’s exciting Florida — that honor goes to Canon Winnie Bolle familiar names from our common life together, and challenging journey to the priesthood, but — she was the first female to “declare” to the including Bishops Duncan, Richards and Schofield beyond that, it is the prayer journal of one Christian Commission on Ministry her intention of seeking and a list of priests and deacons too numerous to seeking to find her way in God’s world. priestly orders. The journey was not an easy one, mention. The book also gives an overview of life in for she sought it at a time when there was much the Episcopal Church as we have struggled with a Fr. Bob Libby is the retired rector of St. resistance to such a change. While she went through changing theological and ecclesiastical landscape. Christopher’s, Key Biscayne, and a frequent the process, she had problems with it. Dr. Weeks also renders a bold and critical analysis contributor to The Net.

future of all people, rich and poor alike, and of all cut global poverty in half by 2015. This plan, which hasten the rate of climate change. things in the world that God so loves. established the eight Millennium Development Of course, it is not the U.S. alone that needs to This relationship between deadly poverty and Goals, included a specific pledge to create deliver. When the leaders of the G8 meet in early the health of creation was not lost on the world’s environmental sustainability. The year 2007 marks June in Germany, climate change will be at the top leaders when, at the turn of the 21st century, they the halfway point in the world’s effort to achieve of their agenda. The health and well-being of Africa committed to an ambitious yet attainable plan to these goals, and while progress has been impressive is also on the agenda, but much further down. in some places, we are nowhere Now is an ideal time for Americans to write, call, close to halfway there. President or e-mail President Bush and urge him to work Bush and other world leaders with other leaders in the G8 to consider climate have made bold commitments, change and deadly poverty side-by-side as facets but many of them have yet to be of the same problem. realized. How can the U.S. help The good news is that Americans are getting put the world back on track? involved like never before. Faith communities like First, our nation should make the Episcopal Church, from which I come, are good on the promises it has made organizing in communities all over the country, as to expand foreign aid targeted at are citizens from many other walks of life. fighting poverty, cancel the debts Millions of Americans have joined the call for of poor countries and seek fairer comprehensive solutions to poverty through efforts international trade rules that like ONE: The Campaign to Make Poverty History, allow people living in poverty to and groups like the UN Millennium Campaign, empower themselves in the fight which are working with citizens in all parts of the against poverty. world. Second, our nation’s leaders To be successful, though, the effort needs even should recognize the emerging more voices. It needs all of us. consensus that we can no longer At the very beginning of the Judeo-Christian ignore our role in safeguarding Scriptures, we hear of God’s creation of the universe the health of God’s creation. We and his proclamation that the whole of it is very must take seriously our share in good. Ultimately, this story is an account of the global responsibility for relationships: the bond of love between God and reducing carbon emissions, and the world, and the interconnectivity of all people work with other nations to and all things in that world. It is only when we take provide the resources and seriously those relationships — when we realize technology transfers that will that all people have a stake in the health and well- allow poor countries to address being of all others and of the Earth itself — this energy needs through clean creation can truly begin to realize the abundant life energy sources that will not that God intends for each one of us. • Clay Waddell was ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Leo Frade during the 11 a.m. Sunday service May 6 at Bethesda-by-the-Sea, Palm Beach. In addition to serving as a deacon at Bethesda, Waddell, who teaches ninth grade at Jupiter High School, is continuing a seven-year ministry Two Cursillo weekends will be held at to seafarers. He began in 2000 as a volunteer at Seafarers’ the Duncan Center this summer: House in Ft. Lauderdale, and in 2002 started a ministry Women’s Episcopal Cursillo #100, to workers on ships docked at the Port of Palm Beach. He July 26-29 and Men’s Episcopal now visits the port two or three times a week, in the Cursillo #84, Aug. 23-26. afternoons after school and after church on Sundays. A a result of the diocesan Prototype Weekend Workshop in March, some changes have been made in the weekend format. The Cursillo Secretariat has received a new music license from Christian Copyright Licensing (CCLI) and is preparing a new songbook, with all needed copyright acknowledgements, for use during the weekends. To recommend a candidate for either of the weekends, or to follow-up on a recommendation already submitted, contact the registrar, Audrey Coombs, 772- 807-5694h or 786-525-3888c, [email protected].

[ENS] The National Episcopal director of the School of the Pilgrim Participants will also join in conference for single adults — Solo and author of Follow Me: Christian workshops, presentations, evening Flight — will assemble for its Growth on Pilgrimage, and listen fun and Episcopal worship, annual meeting at Kanuga to musician the Rev. J. Bruce including the “Liturgy of Healing Conference Center in the Stewart, teacher, performer and and Wholeness and Blessing of Smoky Mountains near catalyst for creativity at the Center Singularity.” Hendersonville, N.C., Aug. 31-Sept. for Liturgy and the Arts in Cost of the conference is 3. Annandale, Va. $415/double occupancy, and Themed “Flying Solo — on These gatherings offer a form of $495/single occupancy (both pilgrimage,” the conference will institutional support, guidelines, include meals and program offer opportunities for single and guided participation in making materials). Episcopalians, as well as their single maps in the world of singleness, To register, call 828-692-9136 or friends from other traditions, to rituals and traditions for the e-mail [email protected]. For more grow spiritually, learn and network journey, all based in the Eucharist information e-mail Dr. Kay Collier with those who share similar values. celebration, and the belief that the McLaughlin, founder and Participants will hear from only relationship that will not fail coordinator of Solo Flight, at keynote speaker the Rev. Dr. Brett is the relationship through Jesus [email protected] or David Perk Webb-Mitchell, founder and Christ. at [email protected]. • Retired Bishop Calvin O. Schofield, Jr., (top left) and his wife Elaine (bottom left) enjoy a leisurely conversation with Fr. Matt Faulstich and his wife Cheryl on the deck of the Regal Empress during the clergy and spouses cruise to Nassau Apr. 12-14. Thirty clergy couples and seven other diocesan clergy took advantage of this opportunity, sponsored by the diocesan Clergy Spouses Group, to relax and reconnect with each other. A mission congregation shall be defined as an organization of more than twenty-five (25) communicants in good standing, of sixteen years of age and upwards, which is chartered under the laws of this state……. The Rev. George E. Andrews retires — Canon XI, Section 3, Constitution and Canons this summer after of the Diocese of Southeast Florida 18 years as headmaster of Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton. During his time as headmaster, the school’s enrollment has grown from 574 students in 1989 to By The Rev. Jack Stanton 1,150 in 2007. Campus facilities On Feb. 19 of this year, Iglesia Episcopal have also expanded to Trinidad was incorporated as a mission include the Chickee congregation in the Diocese on Chapel, Andrews Hall Southeast Florida. — The Center for This newest mission began only four Performing Arts, years ago at Trinity Cathedral, Miami, as one Malnik Family of several diocesan ministries to the Hispanic Athletic Center, Duff communities in our area. With the Tyler Aquatic encouragement of Bishop Leo Frade and the Complex, Schmidt leadership of Assistant Bishop James Ottley, Family Science a committee was established to assist the new Center, Nina and Edgar Otto Lower School, congregation. In addition to Ottley, the Richman-Aker Student Commons, committee members included the Rev. Cruz Domenico Mazzone Visual Arts Building, Cardona, Fr. Dwight Morgan, The Rev. Jennie Middle School Campus, Upper School Lou Reid and Fr. Mark Simms. Classroom and Administrative Building, the The first Sunday service was held on July Booster Club Athletic Pavilion and Saint 13, 2003 with Fr. Lucio Morales officiating. Andrew’s House. Morales soon moved to Maryland, and Andrews and his wife, Lil, plan to split Cardona, who was in Miami on a visa from their time between their home in Marion, Honduras, making ends meet with various Mass., and the west coast of Florida. part-time jobs, took over the regular Sunday On May 19 the school community honored services. She also began to work part-time as Andrews and his wife with a farewell pastor to the small congregation. celebration on campus. For about two years services were held at 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays in the Trinity Cathedral chapel with attendance of five to 20 people. At Ottley’s suggestion the service was moved to 12:30 p.m. on Sundays, where By Mary Lou Ricker Andreshia Bridges, from Church Assistant Bishop James Ottley and it quickly outgrew the 24-seat chapel and of the Incarnation, Miami, second his wife were honored for their moved to the front pews in the cathedral. Episcopal Church Women, place ($1,000); and Rachel R. support of women and women’s Acoustic and electric guitar music now clergy, and visitors from 42 Coon, from St. Gregory’s, Boca organizations in our diocese. They accompanies hymns and songs of praise well- congregations, stretching Raton, third place ($500). were presented with an engraved known in Latin America. from All Saints’, Jensen Josephine Davis-Rolle of clock and a gift certificate. The In January, Iglesia Episcopal Trinidad Beach, to St. Paul’s, Key Church of the Incarnation, Miami, banquet also included a fast- received a grant from the Slemaker Fund — West, participated in the 38th was named Most Honored Woman moving “Red on Red” fashion show a diocesan fund designated for new Annual Meeting of Southeast in the diocese for 2007. (the ECW colors are red and congregations — which permitted Cardona Florida’s Episcopal Church Polly Bobb, United Thank cream), as well as music for to serve the congregation full-time. Women, held at St. Benedict’s, Offering Coordinator, reported dancing. Like any parish church, the congregation Plantation, April 27-28. that $48,000 was sent from our Saturday, following a sing-a- celebrates baptisms (on Sundays, sometimes During the business session on Diocese to UTO last year. long with Nancy Allen and Shirley with more than 100 attending), weddings and Friday, conducted by ECW A plethora of speakers and Hunte, Dr. Gay F. Outler led a quinceañeras (the traditional Hispanic Diocesan President Cynthia workshops was offered. Dr. Faith workshop on “Racism in the celebration of a girl’s 15th birthday, beginning Williams, two ministries — one Monica Green, licensed Episcopal Church.” with a service in the church before the party) inside and one outside the diocese psychotherapist and adjunct A closing Eucharist was led by and holds funerals. Cena Bailles (Dinner — were selected to receive the professor at Nova University, both Bishops Frade and Ottley. Dances) held twice a year attract people from Corporate Missionary Gift. The spoke on “Adding Zing to Your Featured speaker at the Eucharist the cathedral and other parishes and serve recipient inside the diocese was Life” through stress management. was Diana Frade. A symbolic UTO as fund raisers. Trinity Cathedral’s “Feed My Other presentations included Ingathering was included in the Regular Sunday attendance now averages Sheep” outreach program for the Joanna Wragg of Wragg & Casas service. more than 50, and the congregation has a homeless. The ministry selected Public Relations on parish Next year’s ECW Annual choir, acolytes, altar guild and various outside the diocese was Haiti communications; Gerald Meeting will be hosted by the committees. The congregation is interviewing Comfort, which provides care and Klingenberg on spiritual South Dade Deanery and will be candidates for music leader. medicine to orphaned children direction; attorney Vernita C. held in Coconut Grove, April 28 A significant sign that Iglesia Episcopal with HIV/AIDS in Verrettes, Haiti. Williams on “Leaving a Legacy;” and 29. Trinidad is now a congregation with its own Winners of the Catherine Brown and Ms. Martina Parker-Soberson identity is that after four years its leaders are Scholarships were: Lee Davis, a on parenting. Mary Lou Ricker, a member of working out an agreement to begin paying seminarian from St. Martin’s, At Friday night’s banquet at the St. Gregory’s, Boca Raton, serves rent for the use of space at Trinity Cathedral. Pompano Beach, ($1,500); Britney Signature Grand in Davie, on the diocesan ECW Board. May 6 was one of the rare occasions when the Sunday morning congregation of Chapel of the Venerable Bede at the University of Miami in Coral Gables joined the student congregation at their evening service. It was the final service of the year for the students. The service also celebrated the completion of a three-and-a-half year renovation project that created a new main entrance for the chapel and culminated with the installation of the Canterbury Cross window, with a spotlight behind it, on the Stanford Drive lawn of the chapel. The vestry scheduled the blessing and dedication of the renovations to the building while the students were still on campus and could participate, since the purpose of the construction project was to make the chapel more visible, accessible and welcoming to students. The service began on the lawn with the blessing of the new entrance, the • “Vacation/retreat” to be window and new carillon. Then the offered in July: The Duncan Center congregation filed back into the chapel will offer “Anglican Adventures”, a for the Eucharist, which was another “vacation/retreat,” July 8-12. special event — a “U2charist,” featuring music of the Irish rock band U2, whose The four days of refreshment • Fr. Frank Corbishley (left center) and Pastor Arnold and renewal will include visits to songs have often overtly Christian themes. U2’s lead singer, Bono, is a leader in the Perry (right center) present a framed photo of Chapel of such local attractions as the Morikami the Venerable Bede to University of Miami graduate Nadia Museum with its Japanese gardens, and fight against world poverty and a champion of the Millennium Development Goals Cumberbatch. At left are Chris Fisher, outgoing president Butterfly World, as well as speakers, of the Episcopal Student Association at the university and Anglican/Episcopal prayer, labyrinth (MDGs); “U2charist” services are intended to raise awareness (and funds) for the Dr. Esther Obeng, a graduate of UM’s medical school. A walks, movies, good food and time for fourth graduate, Inga Aikmen, is partially visible at right. relaxation. Millennium Development Goals. The MDGs Fees are $545 for double occupancy are a major focus of education and outreach and $595 for single room. Call 561-496- ministry at the Chapel. chaplain, and his Lutheran colleague, Pastor Arnold 4130 to register. Musicians from the university’s music fraternity, Perry of St. Mark’s Church, presented each graduating Phi Mu Alpha, performed and led the U2 songs. senior with a framed photo of the chapel. • Spiritual Direction course will The service raised just over $1,600, which will be “It’s inevitable that being a member of a chapel begin in September: A course in split evenly between Episcopal Relief and dedicated to student ministry on a college campus, spiritual direction will begin with a Development and the charitable arm of the one would have to get used to saying goodbye,” says training session Sept. 13-15 at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Chapel business manager Ana Carter, “but it’s always Duncan Center. As is traditional at the final student service of the hard to say goodbye. They’ve become part of our “The Sacred Art of Spiritual Direction: year, Fr. Frank Corbishley, the Chapel’s rector and family.” A Ministry Training Program” will include three subsequent two-and-a- half-day sessions. The course is designed to prepare those who feel called to the ministry of spiritual direction to “listen with an ear By Tom O’Brien tuned to the movement of God in another person’s life.” The course will “These are ‘thin places’ include such topics as theology, listening where the curtain between and discernment skills, prayer styles and this world and the psychological issues. next is barely For more information or to register perceptible,” advised call 561-496-4130. Pastor Lynne Jones, the leader of the Bethesda-by- • Artress will again offer the-Sea Pilgrimage to labyrinth programs: The Rev. Dr. Lindisfarne and Iona, Lauren Artress, founder of Veriditas: Scotland. “Go on the Voice of the Labyrinth Movement, will pilgrimage without return to the Duncan Center in ‘expectations.’ Be open to December of this year to present a the Spirit to help each of labyrinth retreat and a labyrinth you find the particular facilitator training. Christ whom you need at “Engaging the Sacred Feminine: a this time.” Labyrinth Retreat” will begin at 5:30 With this thoughtful p.m. Dec. 4 and end at 4 p.m. on Dec. admonition in mind, 11 6. The registration fees are: $350 single parishioners of Bethesda room, $300 double occupancy, $225 became pilgrims from Apr. commuter. The fees include all meals. 29 to May 12 to the island The retreat is a prerequisite for the of Lindisfarne off the east labyrinth facilitator training, which is coast of England (just scheduled for Dec. 7-8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. south of the Scottish • Pastor Lynne Jones and Deacon Cecie Titcomb prepare each day. The goal of Veriditas is to border) and to the island provide quality training for labyrinth for Eucharist on Cuthbert’s Island. The ruins of the monastery of Iona off the west coast at Lindisfarne are in the background. facilitators in order to prepare them to of Scotland. introduce others to the labyrinth. In 563, St. Columba The fee for the training is $600. sailed from Ireland to become of both islands allowed us time for moving ecumenical services at the Participants must register directly with abbot of the monastery on the reading, personal and shared Abbey at Iona. Veriditas, www.veriditas.net. The fee for remote island of Iona. In 638, reflections, community worship, On two days when the weather overnight lodging at the Duncan Center Aiden, a monk from Iona, founded private and community prayer, permitted, we took boat trips to is $126, which includes five meals. The a Christian community at sharing our “stories,” nature walks the wildlife sanctuary at Inner fee for meals only is $65. Lindisfarne, and St. Cuthbert came to observe the beauty of God’s Farne and to the Isle of Staffa in Early registration for these events is to Lindisfarne in 660 and creation (an important part of the Inner Hebrides which inspired recommended; call 561-496-4130 to established a monastery. Since Celtic Christianity), and meals. Felix Mendelssohn’s “Fingal’s Cave register for the retreat or for lodging and then, these have been communities The pilgrimage included a Overture” in 1829. meals for the training. of spirituality and are visited by Eucharist on Cuthbert’s Island (to For all of us, it was a time of many pilgrims each year. which we walked at low tide) and spiritual renewal, a blessed respite For more information on these and Lindisfarne is a tidal island with Eucharists on the beaches of Iona. from our normal day-to-day all Duncan Center programs, go to access by causeway only during We went to Morning and Evening activities, and a time of www.duncancenter.org. low tides; two ferry trips are Prayer at St. Mary’s Church in companionship and needed to reach Iona. The isolation Lindisfarne and to the deeply transformation. Nothing could have prepared me for that first ride through the streets of Port au Prince. The depth of misery and physical suffering was beyond my comprehension. During the long, confusing and often agonizing journey that first day in Haiti we were given much to contemplate. Our first evening in Jeannette was spent reviewing the sights and sounds of the day, getting to know our new friends and planning the remainder of our stay. After a good night’s sleep, we embarked on a jaw-jolting ride down the mountain. The sight of people from the village walking stoically uphill with buckets for water, giant bundles of wood, or huge flat baskets piled with Sending a starving child mangoes on their heads to school is like washing reminded me that my your hands, then drying seat in the truck was a them in dirt...... luxury. Fr. Amirold Lazard pointed — Haitian saying out a shiny patch far down the slope: the roof of the new school, which can be seen from Jeanette — the key to why I was there. I won’t lie — I got goose bumps as we pulled up to stop in front of the small rented building that has housed the school and church for years. We were greeted in song by the students of St. Marie Madeleine, all 75 of them crammed into a • This ti fi (little girl) helped welcome Fr. Andrew concrete structure that you could Sherman and the other members of St. Gregory’s By Joani Bogus walk across in four big steps. After team to St. Marc’s Church and school, one of the introductions all around, Fr. parishes they visited in Haiti. In 2003 our companion parish, St. Marie Sherman’s gentle nature and pure Madeleine in Bondeau, Haiti, was just a name in joy in being there helped the our prayers at St. Gregory’s, Boca Raton, but children relax. Presents didn’t hurt either. Each but if my lame attempts at speaking their language a small group of dedicated parishioners soon student received a tote bag filled with school made them laugh, I didn’t mind a bit. began the real work of putting our prayers supplies, generously funded by our Sunday School’s Once inside the spacious sanctuary we unpacked into action. Lenten offering and our ECW. The bags contained and spread out an unlikely array of objects. As the On April 19 our Haiti Team arrived in Port au standard school stuff like pencils, crayons, children looked on with curiosity we mixed thinset, Prince to experience in person this dream of two notebooks and pens, and one other item of the glue that we hoped would work, in a Ziploc bag, distant parishes working together. Fr. Andrew immediate interest to every child — a soprano slapped it on the wall with a broken knife blade, Sherman, Deacon Anita Thorstad, Scott Herren recorder. and set in tiles and a marble border. Fr. Andrew and I spent the next four days in a near-constant By any conventional standard what we heard for reminded us that the “Holy Prophylactic” was surely state of emotional and sensory overload. next few hours couldn’t be called music, but it was in effect; none of us had ever attempted to install a beautiful sound to ceramic tiles before this day, and yet they seemed me. A cacophony of to be adhering to the horribly vertical wall. flutala son (flute The work was bittersweet, as it completed a music) led us up the memorial to a very special person. This dream had hill for our first look been realized through the labor, prayers and at the brand new generosity of our entire congregation, combined church and school with the boundless energy and management of Fr. — an experience I Lazard. But without the vision and foresight of our will never forget. By friend Jim Turner, we would not have walked up the third day the the hill that day. A little over a year ago Jim took children were a trip to Haiti to help get this project off the ground. already turning the Shortly after his return and exciting presentation cacophony into to our congregation, Jim was diagnosed with a fast recognizable tunes, moving and brutal cancer, and within two weeks so delighted with he was gone. Our good friend will always be a part the instruments of the dream, and for that we are truly thankful. that they were There’s still much to be done. Even as you read teaching this, gutters are being installed to collect rainwater themselves to play. in the cistern. Furnishings are being built for church The buildings and classrooms. A feeding program has started that stretched out which will continue through the summer and school before us at the top year. There is a saying in Haiti, which loosely of the hill were translates as, “Sending a starving child to school is more than we could like washing your hands, then drying them in dirt.” have hoped or Looking ahead to the very near future, planning dreamed for. for new projects is already underway: tree planting, Members of the a student sponsorship program, trips each year for community were one team of youth and one of adults, English and there, and we all Creole classes and a pavilion. These are dreams of shared in the Grand St. Gregory’s and St. Marie Madeleine waiting to Tour. come true. Scott broke out a few soccer balls, Joani Bogus is a youth advisor at St. Gregory’s, which were put into Boca Raton. play immediately, while Anita and I spent some quiet • For more photos from the mission trip to time getting to St. Marie Madeleine and postings of St. know the children. Gregory’s future ministries with its Haitian • Fr. Amirold Lazard presents Fr. Andrew Sherman (left) with a How I wished I had companion congregation, go to painting of the new church and school buildings at St. Marie Madeleine, studied a little more www.stgregorysepiscopal.org/. For built with the aid of gifts from companion parish St. Gregory’s, Boca in the Creole information on how to help with this ministry, Raton. Seated behind Lazard is Bishop Jean Zaché Duracin of the language book! I’m contact Fr. Andrew Sherman, Diocese of Haiti, who took part in the dedication of the buildings. pretty sure the kids [email protected]. were teasing me, We are ‘mission’ and ‘emergency relief.’ I would like to see us build up so that we can be ready to respond where and when needed...... • Pearlington resident Calvin Curry (center) called the MERC women “Curry’s Angels” — Valerie Vernon after they spent two days helping him and his wife move into their new home, where they spent the first night under their own roof since Katrina. Left to right with Curry are Ken Steel, Bri’Anna Vernon, Christine Miller and Deacon Valerie Vernon.

On Sunday, May 20, after and organized and distributed lesson (he chose a passage from nearly two full days on the road, supplies at the Recovery Center. Acts). Then Deacon Valerie got the MERC (Mission Along with other volunteer groups up. She explained who and what Emergency Response from around the country, they she was in the structure of the Committee) team from St. helped with the rebuilding of the Episcopal church… and how we Nicholas, Pompano Beach, First Missionary Baptist Church, came to Pearlington, how our From April 28 to May 5 a six-member unpacked their supplies and and watched as the concrete was parish found out about this little mission team from St. Martin’s, Pompano, settled into a school building in poured for the foundation of the town in Mississippi and organized visited Our Little Roses home Pearlington, Miss. church’s new building. All the the first trip in Feb. 2006. for orphaned, abused and In February 2006 a volunteer groups had lunch She also spoke about how we abandoned girls in San Pedro team of six parishioners together each day at the church kept track of things here and how Sula, Honduras. In the June issue of from St. Nicholas, led by site. much we wanted to return. She St. Martin’s newsletter, The Belltower, Deacon Valerie Vernon, “This was the church that feeds talked about the obstacles that mission team member Arlene Wright had made a two-day visit with 100-200 people six days a week our team had run into, how some recounted some the group’s experiences; this a truckload of supplies to — full meals of down-home people signed up to go and then story is adapted from her report. Pearlington, a small town Southern cooking,” Vernon says. were not able to because of It was the first time for three of our devastated by Hurricane “It was a ‘feeding of the 5,000’ circumstances. She talked about members to visit Our Little Roses. For the Katrina. Since then the mission experience for me.” how the evil forces had put her three returning members, it was wonderful team has expanded into MERC On the MERC blog, Miller into the hospital just a week before to watch the newcomers’ reactions to the (pronounced “mercy"), a group describes another powerful our departure, but how God enthusiasm, outstretched arms and smiling developed to organize and experience at the Baptist Church: overcomes all of that, just as God faces of the girls — and to the heat. support outreach ministry to “At the first lunch we went to has overcome the forces of Katrina One of the high points of our visit was meet a variety of needs, both on Monday, Pastor [W.D.] and the aftermath. Valerie then having Tirza, who came to the home at age locally and outside the diocese. Rawls… asked if there were any said that they had sure better let four, and is now 22 and going to a university, This year’s Pearlington mission clergy members in the group. us know when the new church was come to our apartment one evening and tell us team was again headed by Vernon Naturally everyone in our group going to be dedicated because she her story. And what a story! She cannot say and included her 15-year-old started pointing to Deacon Valerie was coming back! enough about Our Little Roses and the granddaughter Bri’Anna Vernon, and saying, ‘Here’s one, over here.’ Like Pastor Rawls said: ‘We had opportunities available to every girl who comes Christine Miller from St. Nicholas The pastor asked again if there church!’” there. She is a wonderful role model to the and two members of St. Martin’s, were any other clergy, and when Vernon says MERC is others; she mentors them, and she is their Pompano Beach, Ken Steel and no one else was so identified, he committed to continue its support friend. She works at the airport, and has already Betty Lloyd, RN. They brought looked at Valerie and said, ‘You’re for Pearlington, and is also been invited and spoken to a Rotary group. with them a cash donation from giving the message Wednesday exploring what kinds of mission God is working wonders in and through her. parish fund-raising for the night.’” work might be done locally with She is headed for great things! Pearlington Recovery Center and That service… may have been migrant workers. The team did Our group was assigned to a painting project. gift certificates for Home Depot the highlight of the trip. The hall two “day missions” last year at St. Have you ever tried painting a concrete block and Lowe’s from diocesan was filled mainly with volunteer John’s, Belle Glade. wall that has not been made smooth? With long Daughters of the King chapters. workers and a few parishioners. “‘We are ‘mission’ and handled rollers, paint brushes and lots of During their five days in One of the volunteer workers ‘emergency relief’,’” she says, “I determination, we began. On our first day we Pearlington the group worked on played some hymns on the piano would like to see us build up so used up a five-gallon pail of paint, and we a new house, helped a family move and then Ken, from our group, that we can be ready to respond assumed that the next day we would do the into its newly constructed home was asked to read a scripture where and when needed.” same. But to our surprise, when we removed the lids from the pails, wrong colors! Maybe God knew we needed a break from "hard labor” — but we got to spend more time with the girls. The following day, however, we did complete our job. We joined the girls every evening for chapel, which the girls truly love. They love to pray, and they sing with expression and • Joy Astrolio of St. enthusiasm. It was wonderful to Martin’s, Pompano Beach, have them share this with us. gets a beauty makeover Another of the highlights is from a young friend at Our always a “going away party” the Little Roses. night before a mission team leaves. The girls modeled costumes we brought them. They danced for us, smiling so proudly and showing us how happy they were. In addition to the donated costumes, we also brought practical clothing, personal hygiene items, craft and activity items, and hair and beauty products, which they enjoyed using on themselves — and us.