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Hands-On Learning at Camp McDowell Environmental Center
“Remembrance, Repentance, and Reconciliation”— The 13th Annual Jonathan Daniels Pilgrimage ÓÊUÊ/ iÊ>L>>Ê «ÃV«>> ÀÕ`Ê"ÕÀÊ ViÃi
The Alabama Episcopalian 3EPTEMBER /CTOBER / À`Ê >ÃÃÊvÊ i>VÃÊ"À`>i` By Diocesan Staff; Photo by the Rev. Deacon Dave Drachlis In This Issue Bishop Parsley and empower the and Bishop people of God in Sloan ordained reaching out, so 13 women and that, in the words men to the of the Ordinal, Sacred Order of Christ’s people Deacons on Sat- may know that ‘in urday, October 1, helping the help- during a service less they are serv- at the Cathe- ing Christ himself dral Church of . . ..’ They make the Advent in a healing con- Junior High Summer Camper Samuel Sutherland Birmingham. nection between “wearing” a nonpoisonous gray rat snake; photo by the Rev. Mark Waldo Jr. The new per- the Church and manent deacons, the needs of the For the past seven years, the gentle female gray rat snake who come from world.” in the cover photo has helped educate children and adults parishes through- (Front row) Kelly Hudlow, Jeannie Robison, Cindy Rolf, (second row) Judy Lee, Norbert Wilson, Permanent about snakes and helped many people overcome their fear out our diocese, Maria Asson, Kim Beckett, (third row) David Whetstone, Charlotte Van Slyke, Jerry Jacob, Judy deacons, who are of nonpoisonous snakes through Camp McDowell Envi- Quick, (fourth row) Marti Holmes, Bishop Sloan, David Barfield, and Bishop Parsley are Marla Asson non-stipendiary, ronmental Center’s Alabama Neighbors Program, taught by senior environmentalist Dave Hollaway. As always, the from St. Stephen’s have a role both children who attended Summer Camp had amazing experi- in Huntsville, David Barfield from Holy Comforter in in the liturgy of the Word and the liturgy of the table ences learning about nature and God’s abiding love for us Gadsden, Kim Beckett from St. Michael and All Angels’ during Eucharist, and they also have special ministries and all of creation while they played in God’s backyard at in Anniston, Marti Holmes from St. Stephen’s in Bir- both within and outside their parish. Their formal “Wonderful, Wonderful” Camp McDowell. And as always, mingham, Kelley Hudlow from Canterbury Chapel in preparation included a two-year Deacon’s School for the campers declared, “It was the best summer ever!” Tuscaloosa, Jerry Jacob from Grace Church in Cullman, Ministry program, which consisted of monthly Satur- Summer Camp Director Susanna Whitsett adds, “I hope Judy Lee from Holy Apostles’ in Hoover, Judy Quick day sessions, three weekend sessions each year at Camp that you will have an opportunity to visit camp soon. There from St. Andrew’s in Montevallo, Jeannie Robison from McDowell, and an extensive theological and scriptural is so much to do, so much to learn and celebrate, so much Nativity in Huntsville, Cindy Roff from Canterbury reading program. They also explored a variety of com- to love!” (Please see the stories and photos on pages 10-13, and visit Camp McDowell’s Web site, www.campmcdowell.com). Chapel in Tuscaloosa, C.J. Van Slyke from St. Francis’ munity ministries during their formation. Completion in Indian Springs Village, David Whetstone from Grace of the four-year Education for Ministry curriculum of This year’s Jonathan Myrick Daniels and the Martyrs of Church in Anniston, and Norbert Wilson from St. Dun- the School of Theology at the University of the South Alabama Pilgrimage, held August 13 in Hayneville, featured stan’s in Auburn. in Sewanee is also required before ordination. a historic Service of Remembrance, Repentance, and Rec- They comprised the third class of deacons to be Deacon Asson will serve at Holy Cross-St. Christo- onciliation. During the service, Bishop Parsley celebrated Holy Eucharist on the bench used by the judge during the ordained since the permanent diaconate was instituted pher’s in Huntsville, Deacon Barfield will remain and trial of the man who shot and killed Jonathan on August in our diocese in 1999. The first class of deacons was serve at Holy Comforter in Gadsden, Deacon Beckett 20, 1965, when he shielded Ruby Shields from the shotgun ordained in November 2002, and the second class in will serve at the Church of the Resurrection in Gad- blast—the man was acquitted. Bishop Parsley spoke of St. October 2004. Previously deaconesses were ordained in sden, Deacon Holmes will serve at Grace Church in Paul’s radical vision of a world changed by the reconcil- our diocese, beginning in 1885. Woodlawn, Deacon Hudlow will serve at St. Michael’s ing love of God in Christ and his belief that this meant the Saturday’s ordination increased the number of dea- Church in Fayette, Deacon Jacob will remain and serve reconciliation of us with one another. He held up Jonathan cons actively serving parishes in our diocese to 31. They at at Grace Church in Cullman, Deacon Lee will serve as an example of someone who was “bold enough to live . . . provide a leadership role in a variety of ministry areas at St. Francis’ Church in Indian Springs, Deacon Quick and give his life for this vision of radical equality.” including disaster relief, prison ministry, mission work will remain and serve at St. Andrew’s in Montevallo, Using the liturgy our diocesan Commission on Race Relations prepared especially for this service, Bishop Parsley in Honduras and Haiti, race relations, ministries to the Deacon Robison will remain and serve at the Nativ- recalled the tragic part the Episcopal Church in the Diocese homeless and the hungry, Jubilee Ministries, and other ity in Huntsville, Deacon Roff will remain and serve at of Alabama played in the sin of racism, and he gave voice outreach ministries. Canterbury Chapel in Tuscaloosa, Deacon Van Slyke will to the Church’s repentance of the past—and our efforts to “The diaconate is about servant ministry,” Bishop serve at Trinity Church in Clanton, Deacon Whetstone overcome that legacy of discrimination. The Rev. Deacon Parsley explains. “Deacons are called and ordained to be will remain and serve at Grace Church in Anniston, and Tom Osborne, cochair of the commission, noted that this servants in a special way, by helping the Church extend Deacon Wilson will remain and serve at St. Dunstan’s in service culminated our diocese’s “Past Imperfect, Present the ministry of Christ to those in need. Deacons lead Auburn. Hope” project. “It called a solemn assembly, collectively confessed and repented of the sin of racism, and asserted the truth that for the Body of Christ there is only one ministry, the ministry of reconciliation.” (Please see page 24, and visit 6ÃÊ-Ì>ÌiiÌÊvÊÌ iÊ6V>ÌÊ>`Ê our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org.)
The Alabama Episcopalian ÃÌÀÞÊvÊ i>VÃÊvÊÌ iÊ «ÃV«>Ê The Alabama Episcopalian is published six times a year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, ViÃiÊvÊ>L>> September/October, and November/December). For the most current news about recent and upcoming events, please visit A deacon is a baptized person called and empowered by God and the Church to be a model of Christ’s our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. servant ministry for all people. As agents of God’s compassion and reconciling grace, deacons are missionaries to Please send stories and photographs (color, if available) the world and messengers to the Church of the world’s needs, hopes, and concerns. In the Church, deacons call for The Alabama Episcopalian to Editor Norma McKittrick at forth, empower, and inspire the baptized to respond to these needs. The role of the deacon in liturgy mirrors the [email protected] or 2156 Kent Way, Birmingham, AL 35226. role of the deacon in the Church and world. Deacons are living symbols of Christ’s presence as they embody The submission deadline for each issue is the 1st of the month prior to publication. Christ’s servant ministry and point to the presence of Christ in those they serve.
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bread, he sees that they are in real trouble. The need is member the stories of the feeding of the crowds. They are vast; the available resources are tiny. eucharistic stories, and our lives are meant to be eucha- Most of us have been there. I have. It is the “what-on- ristic lives. As Jesus took the loaves, blessed, broke, and earth-am-I-going-to-do-now” moment. gave them, so are we to do with our lives. When we do Jesus shows us the action of the person of faith in such so, like Jesus, God’s abundance is revealed in our scarcity. moments. He simply offers what he has to God. He offers God’s power is shown through our weakness. God’s love it in the absolute faith that God will somehow make it is released through our poor hearts. enough. Where there appears to be only scarcity, Jesus sees This does not mean that everything works out mirac- abundance. ulously in our situations of need and challenge. Some- Was what happened then a multiplication of the lad’s times what we are given is simply the strength to bear up few morsels? Was it that, seeing the lad’s generosity and under the disappointments of life and the courage to keep Jesus’ faith, the crowds began to share the bits of loaves on giving ourselves in the midst of the storm. Sometimes and fish that they had secretly squirreled away for them- loaves and fish are multiplied beyond our wildest dreams. selves? Was it some mysterious combination of these? We But the abundance of God is always there, often hidden can have different views, but I am not sure that it abso- but there. lutely matters in the end. What matters is that God acted in Our part is self-offering: the taking, the breaking, and that moment and divine abundance replaced our human the giving of ourselves. The rest is up to God. Faith trusts scarcity. the good that God is preparing for us, both in this life and The Catechism in our Prayer Book affirms our belief in the life to come. “Even at the grave, we make our song, that the Holy Scriptures are the Word of God because alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!” “God inspired their human authors” and because “God Each time we celebrate the Holy When he invited the people to receive the consecrated still speaks to us” through them.” The latter affirmation bread at communion, Augustine of Hippo would often fascinates me. How is it that God speaks through the Eucharist, we remember the stories say: Bible? This seems to me to be the heart of the matter. It has been said that the stories of Scripture only of the feeding of the crowds. They Be what you see: begin really to impact us when they become our story. As are eucharistic stories, and our lives Receive who you are. Karl Barth once wrote, truth must become truth for me. On the rare occasions when I am able to sit in the pew, are meant to be eucharistic lives. Those words invite us to be the bread that we re- this is what I listen for—not just the truth for the writer ceive—our truest selves in Christ. They challenge us to in his or her context or the truth in general, but the As Jesus took the loaves, blessed, live eucharistic lives, lives of faithful self-offering in the existential truth, how the passage is true for my life. This broke, and gave them, so are we to service of the goodness and truth of God. For as we take is what I try to preach, however inadequately, as should all our little lives and ask God to bless, break, and give them, of us who dare ascend the pulpit. do with our lives. things still happen that are beyond our wildest dreams. We all have favorite biblical stories. For 41 years I And usually there is a lot left over. have preached on innumerable passages and in different ways have continuously found transformational truth in This is the heart of faith. Our friends in AA have a Your servant in Christ, them. But at the top of my list of favorites, just above saying, “I can’t. But God can. I think I’ll let him.” The the parable of the prodigal son, are the accounts of Jesus power of God’s grace becomes manifest through such feeding the multitudes. This story appears five times in self-surrender. It happens when we are up against the the gospels, more than any other outside the events of the most vexing personal situations and, equally, when we cross and resurrection. Each telling is a little different, like are called upon to address vast social problems that seem life itself. impossible. We do not have what it takes, but God does. The Rt. Rev. Henry N. Parsley Jr. In some ways it is a difficult story. Jesus takes a few Each time we celebrate the Holy Eucharist, we re- loaves and fish and blesses, breaks, and gives them—and thousands are fed, with a lot left over. The multiplication of the fishes and loaves can be tough for our post- Enlightenment minds to deal with. Thomas Jefferson dropped these accounts from his revised New Testa- ,iÌÀiiÌÊ iiLÀ>Ì ment—just too miraculous for reason to accept! In this context, it is well to remember C.S. Lewis’s wise observation that in the miraculous feedings Jesus /ÊÀÊÌ iÊ*>ÀÃiÞÃÊÊ"VÌLiÀÊÓn simply does in an instant what God does year after year A special dinner event celebrating our ministry as a in the earth’s fertility, providing from tiny wheat seeds diocese and Bishop and Becky Parsley’s life and ministry and dead-looking grapevines harvests to nourish the among us for the past 15 years will be held at The Club world and make glad our hearts. in Birmingham on Friday evening, October 28. As part This is a helpful insight, an “explanation” of sorts. of the celebration, Catesby Jones is compiling a book of Life itself is miraculous. brief stories, memories, anecdotes, and photographs; if Yet even this does not get to the real depths of the you wish to share something, please send it to Catesby story, to where it can really become my story and your Jones, P.O. Box 1014, Selma AL 36702. story. To do this we must notice that Jesus in this situa- For more information about the celebration or to tion shows us not just the power of miracle. He shows make a reservation, please visit http://dioala.org/gala. us the power of faith. Seeing the hungry crowds and html or call Denise Servant at 205/715-2060 ext. 300. able to find only the lad’s small offering of fish and
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who’d talked to someone who was out there saying From a distance, these labels not only identify but that I am too conservative. Actually I’ve heard that be- also define these people—it’s only when you get a fore, too—I’m not sure what that means either, except little closer that you can see that they’re really people. that I disagree with somebody about something. Labels are only helpful to a point; beyond that, they In 30 years of serving the Episcopal Church in or- make it hard to see the person behind them. dained ministry, I’ve encouraged people to be honest So which label should you stick on me: Am I a with me, to tell me what they think . . . and some folks conservative or a liberal? From what I hear, the answer have. I have at one point or another been told that I must be yes—too liberal, not liberal enough, too am too liberal, not liberal enough, too conservative. conservative, and not conservative enough. I think I’d and not conservative enough. Maybe I am; I might be rather you didn’t stick a label on me at all, and I’ll try any one of those things at any one moment on any to not to label you right back. I hope that as the years one issue, but surely I can’t be all of those things at go by we can get close enough to each other to see once, all the time. I think the real truth of it is that as that we’re all really people, children of the same Father Episcopalians, and as Americans, we are encouraged to in heaven. think for ourselves, which means that we will inevi- I’ve heard Bishop Parsley say several times that he tably disagree from time to time. Sometimes when is “radically moderate,” which I think is an apt de- scription of him. I think my grandfather used to tell us to be “moderate in all things, including moderation.” Perhaps unlike my radical friend Henry, I can only Hello, friends: I think I’d rather you didn’t stick a be moderately moderate—trying to find the middle label on me at all, and I’ll try to not ground most of the time, hoping to bring together Thank you all very much for your kindness to me people who have the freedom to disagree so that we and my family throughout the process of electing our to label you right back. I hope that can talk to each other without attaching labels or call- next bishop, and thank you for your confidence in ing names or tearing apart the Church we love so that me and your trust in God to work through me as we as the years go by we can get close together we can join together to serve God through begin a new season of service in this part of God’s one enough to each other to see that Jesus Christ our Lord. holy Church. There are labels that I would like to be identified As the weeks and months before the election wore we’re all really people, children of by, though. You can label me a follower of Jesus Christ, on, different people who wanted me to be elected a child of God, a bishop in God’s church, a Mississippi would tell me about it; I’m assuming those good folks the same Father in heaven. State fan (I’m writing this on the first day of the col- who wanted us to elect one of the other nominees lege football season), a Southerner, a man in love with told somebody else. One of the people who were his wife, and a proud father. hoping I’d be elected told me she was comfortable we disagree it is convenient to choose up sides and that I wouldn’t want to change anything. I didn’t think label who’s on my team and who’s on yours. Then we much about it until another person told me he was have not only a disagreement but also a competition, Rather than “telling each other hoping I’d be elected so we could do things differ- with winners and losers; we can make almost anything apart,” we need to find a way to ently. competitive. Just before the election somebody told me that One of the most formative parts of my life has tell us together. his concern was that I am too liberal. I told him I’d been working with summer camps for people with heard that before, but I’m not really sure what that disabilities. The campers come with labels firmly at- means, so he told me some of what he and I probably tached: Down’s Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Epileptic, For those of you who read the last paragraph first, don’t agree about. Then I got an e-mail from someone Intellectual Disability, Spinal Bifida, and on and on. just to see if the column would be worth reading, here’s what I really want to say: I am convinced that we have to get away from handling different ideas / Ê * - "* Ê 1 , or opinions in our Church as competitions, choos- In the Diocese of Alabama A community of about The Anglican Communion ing up teams and applying big sloppy labels so we can About 33,000 baptized members in 92 parishes 2.4 million members in 119 dioceses An 80-million-member tell each other apart, with the people who are bound and worshiping communities and 8 college in the Americas and abroad. Established worldwide community of campus ministries. Established in 1830. in 1789. 38 provinces. and determined to win at all costs, even if winning means destroying the Church, serving as team captains. Bishop Presiding Bishop Archbishop of Canterbury The Rt. Rev. Henry Nutt Parsley Jr. The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori The Most Rev. Rowan D. Williams Rather than “telling each other apart,” we need to find Episcopal Church Center Lambeth Palace, London Bishop Suffragan 815 Second Avenue England SE17JU a way to tell us together. The Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan New York, NY 10017 212/867-8400 Carpenter House 521 North 20th Street Birmingham, AL 35203 205/715-2060 In the United States The Alabama Episcopalian is published 6 times per year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and The Alabama Episcopalian November/December) by the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. Previous names for this publication include The Diocese of Alabama (1892), The Church The Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan Norma E. McKittrick, Editor Record (1893–1922), The Alabama Churchman (1923–1987), The Apostle (1988–1997 and 1999–2009), and The Alabama Apostle (1998). Periodicals rate Miles G. Parsons, Art Director postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama. Denise Servant, Circulation Secretary !LL EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS should be sent to Editor Norma McKittrick at [email protected] or 2156 Kent Way, Birmingham, AL 35226. The Volume 96, Number 5 deadline for each issue is the 1st of the month prior to publication. September-October 2011 USPS 070-910 !LL ADDRESS CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS should be sent to Denise Servant at [email protected] or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, ISSN 1041-3316 Birmingham, AL 35203–2682.
POSTMASTER: Please send address corrections to Denise Servant, Circulation Secretary, The Alabama Episcopalian, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203–2682.
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In the spring of 2010, Many, many thanks to those a few months after Bishop already mentioned as well as to Parsley announced his plans Jenny Blackmon, Bunny Ed- to retire at the end of 2011, wards, the Rev. Evan Garner, our diocesan Standing Com- the Rev. Canon Heidi Kinner, mittee appointed the members Susan Koonce, Anne Mitch- of the Search Committee and ell, Anthony Joseph, Melissa the Transition Committee. The Strange, Fiona Watts, the Rev. task for the Search Commit- Eric Stelle, the Rev. Ben Alford, tee was obvious, and there has Catesby Jones, the Rev. Deacon been widespread concurrence Ken Lewis, the Rev. Eric Liles, on the high quality of their the Rev. Margaret Scalise, Steve work, to put it mildly. The Smith, Linda Kennedy, the Rev. task of the Transition Com- Deacon Dave Drachlis, the Rev. mittee was perhaps not quite Michael Rich, Steven Speaks, so clear: We are responsible Nancy Terrell, the Rev. Huey for orchestrating the events Gardner, Nancy Whitson, Diane in the process of electing and Weatherford, Dan Miller, Mari- seating our next bishop. Those lyn McCrary, Evelyn McGe- events should go smoothly. hee, Joanna Brooks, Audrey They should be well done and Vander Yacht, Susie Caffey, Jo satisfying. The Cursillo community provided the refreshments for the reception at the Cathedral Church of the Advent following the election in July: Anne Gaede, Ceil Prosch, Ann As Chair of the Transi- Stephanie Sewell, Hill Sewell, Betsy Simmons, Johnny Tyson, Phyllis Bennington, Bing Edwards, Bo Berry, Margaret Mussleman, Libba Johnson, John Douglass, Su- tion Committee, I have seen Vaughn, John Paul Mussleman, Carleton Ambrose, Sue Roberts, and (not pictured) Jennifer Boylan, Rusty Boylan, and Sharon Benefield; san Logan, Helen Camp, Betsy a remarkable outpouring of photo by Bo Berry Simmons, Jennifer and Rusty enthusiasm from every person Boylan, Peggy Miller, Harriet and group that has been asked to help. It has been a Canon Joe Gibbes and Brad Horne, who worked hard Word, the Honorable J. Scott Vowell, Maibeth Porter, pleasure to watch people, some meeting for the first to balance the needs of Sarah Sartain and the Carpen- Esq., Rep. Joe Hubbard, Sally Sinclair, Carleton Am- time, as they put their heads and hands together and ter House staff with the needs of Johnny Tyson and his brose, Keehn and Bo Berry, Phyllis Bennington, Bing joyfully make things happen. I want to acknowledge sous-chefs. The Cursillo community provided the best Edwards, John Paul and Margaret Mussleman, Sue their efforts in staging the first two events and plan- refreshments ever. Eddie Finn, George Newton and Roberts, Hill and Stephanie Sewell, Libba Vaughan, ning the events to come in October and January. Melanie Rodgers provided music while the refresh- Sharon Benefield, Nancy Bromberg, Stan Atkins, Deb- The staff and members of St. Luke’s in Birming- ments were served. Sybil Sylvester, assisted by Margot orah Barrett, Bob and Martha Black, Charles Booth, ham rolled out the red carpet in June, welcoming del- Shaw, arranged the showstopping flowers in Clingman Anne Burke, Fran Cade, Candice and Steve Frazer, egates and visitors to a Saturday afternoon walkabout Pat Goodwin, Marilyn Greely, Mary Hanson, Alli with the four bishop candidates. They anticipated As Chair of the Transition Commit- and Chris Hartley, Derrick Hill, Robin Hinkle, Lyle every need and answered each one promptly and gra- Hohnke, John Kennedy, Trey Kennedy, Walker Ken- ciously. The Rev. Chris Girata, who is an outstanding tee, I have seen a remarkable out- nedy, Kate Kiefer, Kim McAdams, Bentley Manning, event planner, assembled a group of devoted helpers Katie Nakamura and Josiah Rengers, Jean Nelson, Vina from the parish. The breathtakingly beautiful flowers pouring of enthusiasm from every Rahlls, Lillie Skelton, Paul Thibodaux, Charles Ken- were “refreshed” for the occasion by the family of the person and group that has been asked nedy, Livy and James Abele, Katy and David Smith, late Virginia Bissell Spencer. Cornelia and Tom Heflin, Cassandra and A.J. Joseph, At the beginning of the walkabout weekend, each to help. It has been a pleasure to the Rev. Rich Webster, the staff of St. Luke’s, the of the four candidates was presented with a welcome Very Rev. Frank Limehouse, the staff of the Cathedral basket artfully arranged by Marilyn Atkins on behalf watch people, some meeting for the Church of the Advent, and last but certainly not least, of our diocesan ECW and the parish ECWs of St. first time, as they put their heads and the Rev. Alison Carmody. My sincerest apologies to Luke’s in Birmingham, St. Mary’s on-the-Highlands in anyone whose name has not been noted. I know many Birmingham, St. Peter’s in Talladega, St. Simon Peter in hands together and joyfully make others worked behind the scenes, in particular the Pell City, St. Michael and All Angels’ in Anniston, and cookie bakers and sandwich cutters who even took the Epiphany in Guntersville. Imprinted reusable tote things happen. I want to acknowl- leftover bread to the elephants at the zoo! bags contained the weekend schedule, information on On October 28, we will celebrate Bishop Parsley’s various diocesan ministries, and homemade goodies edge their efforts in staging the first dedication to our diocese over the last 15 years. Dur- donated by various individuals, all of which made an two events and planning the events ing the first weekend in January 2012, we will host impression of fine hospitality toward the nominees and several events and many out-of-town guests who will their spouses. On the evening prior to the walkabout, to come in October and January. come for the investiture of Bishop Sloan. Some of members of the Transition Committee and the Search these events are well along in the planning stage. We Committee took the candidates to a relaxing dinner at will need volunteers. If you are interested, please contact various restaurants around town. Commons; the hydrangeas and other native flowers me at [email protected]. The Cathedral Church of the Advent hosted the were the very best of an Alabama summer. Did ev- Our invaluable national consultant, Judy Stark, sees election in July. This event, as well as the walkabout eryone notice that the cathedral bells rang as Bishop- such events at dioceses all around the country. She has at St. Luke’s, included countless details that needed to Elect Sloan spoke from the chancel? The outstanding praised our work and has taken notes to pass along happen smoothly. All went like clockwork thanks to choir graciously sang on the summer Saturday after- to others. Gospel Hospitality is alive and well in our a large group of great helpers, starting with the Rev. noon after a 10-day singing tour along the east coast. diocese. Thanks be to God!
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EPISCOPAL CHURCH W OMEN Compiled by Lynn Edge Reeves, Publicity Chair
.OTE .O PHOTO AVAILABLE FOR 3EAN !RNOLD OF 3T -ARKS IN 0RATTVILLE !MANDA #LAYTOR OF 3T -ATTHEWS IN -ADISON OR "LAKE 4AYLOR OF !LL 3AINTS IN -ONTGOMERY
,YDIA !LLISON Lee Auman !LLIE "ROADFOOT #OOPER #HESEBRO %LIZABETH #OBB St. Thomas’ in Huntsville Epiphany in Guntersville Ascension in Montgomery St. Stephen’s in Birmingham St. Luke’s in Birmingham
4ATIANA #OOKINGHAM +RISTEN 'ARlELD Allison Hallman *ONATHAN (ENNESSY *ULIA (ORN St. Matthew’s in Madison St. Andrew’s in Tuskegee Christ Church in Tuscaloosa St. Simon Peter in Pell City St. Stephen’s in Birmingham
)SABELLE ,EAVITT /WEN /.EAL James Rhodes 7ILLIAM 3NODDY 2ACHEL 6AUGHN St. John’s in Decatur Christ Church in Tuscaloosa St. John’s in Forkland Ascension in Birmingham St. Matthew’s in Madison
(EATHER 7HALEY 2OB 7HALEY 4HOMAS 7ILKINSON Trinity in Florence St. Dunstan’s in Auburn St. Michael and All Angel’s in Anniston
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The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Scholarship diocese; Kristen is attending Auburn University. Both ate student at UAB; Julia Horn, who is attending Warren Committee awarded 2011-12 scholarships to 21 students Jonathan Hennessy and William Snoddy received the Wilson College; Isabelle Leavitt, who is attending Savan- who represent 17 churches throughout our diocese. The Elizabeth Blair Pannell Scholarship, which is awarded in nah College of Art and Design; Owen O’Neal, who is committee chose these young people based on each accordance with guidelines set by the ECW; Jonathan attending Stanford University; James Rhodes, who is at- applicant’s church activities, merit, and financial need as is attending UAB, and William is attending Auburn tending the University of Mississippi; Blake Taylor, who well as the completeness of the application, comments University. is attending Syracuse University; Heather Whaley, who is from her or his priest, and community and school ser- Students receiving ECW Scholarships include Lydia attending the University of Alabama, Rob Whaley who vice participation. Allison, who is attending Auburn University; Sean is attending Auburn University; Thomas Wilkinson, who Amanda Claytor received the Edith Buell Scholarship, Arnold, who is attending the University of Alabama; is attending Gadsden State Community College; and which is awarded on the basis of merit to an outstand- Lee Auman, who is attending Snead State Commu- Rachel Vaughn, who is attending Auburn University. ing young woman of our diocese who is in need for her nity College; Allie Broadfoot, who is attending Auburn For more information about making a contribution college education; Amanda is a graduate student at the University; Cooper Chesebro, who is attending Auburn to or applying for a scholarship, please visit our diocesan Seminary of the Southwest. Kristen Garfield received University; Elizabeth Cobb, who is attending Auburn ECW Web site, www.alabamaecw.org, or contact your the Bishop Wilmer Scholarship, which is awarded on the University; Tatiana Cookingham, who is attending the parish’s ECW president. basis of merit to an outstanding child of a priest in our University of Alabama; Allison Hallman, who is a gradu-
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Recently I read a story in The Ragamuffin Gospel, by Brennan Man- My answer to this is to take a look at the activities of the Episcopal Church Women ning, about a man who had a headache that never went away. When in our diocese. During my two years as President of our ECW Diocesan Board, I have he asked his doctor what could be causing the constant pain, his seen many examples of the willingness of the women of our diocese to make some doctor asked how much liquor he drank. “I never touch the filthy changes in their outreach activities and begin to serve in new ways. stuff,” the man replied. When the doctor asked if he smoked, the man Of course, in doing so, they also have continued to serve in the traditional ways they replied, “I’ve never in my life touched tobacco.” When the doctor have done for many years. We continue to give ECW Scholarships; distribute Church asked if he “ran around” at night, the man replied, “Of course not. Periodical Club money to our seminarians; provide food, clothing and school supplies I’m in bed by 10 o’clock.” After hearing the man’s replies, the doctor to the needy; and help with parish health clinics. Recently we have added such things told him that the cause of his constant headache was simply that he had his “halo on too as helping with tornado relief, looking for new ways to ask for UTO (United Thank tight.” Offering) grant money, sending missionaries to work in other countries, and supporting Perhaps we all need to sit down and think about how tight we are wearing our halos. the clergy spouses in their Krik? Krak! efforts. Do we merely go from week to week doing the same things over and over, or do we In my opinion, most of the women in our diocese have tilted halos. They are willing sometimes try to branch out? Are we willing, like the disciples, to make some changes in to be what might be considered “ragamuffins” for Christ. I urge each of you to continue our routines and reach out to others? to look for new and innovative ways to serve in our parishes and communities. - >À}Ê`½ÃÊ Ài>ÌÊ>`Ê>Ê ÃÌÀÞÊvÊëÌ>ÌÞ By Cathy Robertson, Camp McDowell Conference Center Staff
I have always thought them learn by accident how fabulous the Episcopal St. Paul’s in Selma, for the time they spent and items they of Camp McDow- Church is. donated to help us give Stough Lodge a much-needed ell as the “heart” In the past few months we have hosted hospital facelift. The Friends of Camp McDowell have given of our diocese and therapy groups; college leadership training groups; youth generously for this cause, and we would greatly appreci- that it is the greatest retreats for Baptists, Presbyterians, and nondenominational ate additional gifts of new or gently used items, including evangelism tool we groups; folk school groups; choirs; environmentalists; rugs, lamps, end tables, and artwork. If you have any items have. After living prison ministries; family reunions; and many others. We you think would enhance our decor, we would be happy and working here are blessed to be able to share God’s creation and a ministry of to accept them as a tax-deductible donation. for five months, hospitality with so many people. While the Camp McDowell Conference Center books I am now sure of In the Stough Dining Hall, we now serve “farm to a year in advance, sometimes we have room for a few it—everyone who table” menu items with wonderful produce grown locally more guests. If you are thinking about arranging an event, comes here abso- and purchased at the Jasper Farmers’ Market. Our guests please contact us. You can call me or reservations manager Cathy Robertson lutely loves Camp rave over the fresh selections of vegetables and healthy Paula Byrd at 205/387-1806 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 McDowell! options we offer! p.m. or e-mail us at [email protected] or What is there not to love? I had no idea how many I want to thank Melissa Strange, of St. Mary’s-on- [email protected]. “outside” groups support our camp. It is a joy to watch the-Highlands in Birmingham, and Valerie Chittom, of
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FOR AND ABOUT Y OUTH 9ÕÌ Ê i«>ÀÌiÌÊ*>ÃÊ Ó䣣£ÓÊ ÛiÌà By Susan Oakes, Interim Youth Ministries Coordinator Our diocesan Youth Department (YD), a group of 11 peer-elected youth, 6 advisors, a chaplain, and a dioc- esan staff member, plan and facilitate several youth events each year. The group gathered for a planning retreat at St. Stephen’s in Birmingham in August to develop ideas for program themes and leaders for this year’s events. We are currently planning the festivities for OUR ANNUAL $ISTRICT $AY EVENT SCHEDULED FOR 3UNDAY /CTOBER We hope all the youth in all the EYC groups in every parish in our diocese will come to their district gathering to enjoy games, hear an overview of the events the Youth Department will be hosting this year, and participate in a time of worship. Please save the dates for these YD events: Our 2011-12 Youth Department: (front row) Maddie Webb of Trinity in Florence, Ann Kathryn Parrish of the Ascension in Montgomery, Taylor Lollar of Holy Comforter in Montgomery, youth advisor Worth Stuart, Aidan White of St. John’s /CTOBER District Day at a location near you in Montgomery, (middle row) Ashely Grace Passey of St. Stephen’s in Birmingham, $ECEMBER Christmas Conference at Camp McDowell Abbey Moore of St. Stephen’s in Birmingham, Meredith Byars of St. Alban’s in -ARCH Rites of Spring at Camp McDowell Birmingham, Interim Youth Ministries Coordinator Susan Oakes, (back row) Logan Oakes of St. Stephen’s in Birmingham, Sam Spearman of Trinity in Florence, We’re looking forward to seeing you soon at District Day! For more information please check with your Hannah LaRue of Grace Church in Anniston, Sabol Rodgers of the Nativity in parish youth leaders, visit our diocesan Web site (www.dioala.org), or contact me at [email protected] or Huntsville (not pictured: youth advisors Joel Blackstock, Katherine Cole, and Mitzi Chesser Waldo, and chaplain the Rev. Thomas Joyner) 205/715-2060 ext. 325.
/ >Ê9Õ]Ê/ >Ê9Õ]Ê >«iÀÃt By Memily Colvin, a Member of the Sawyerville Day Camp Commission
Once again, summer campers at Camp McDowell were very generous and provided almost 1,000 books for children who live in the Black Belt area of our state! I can now include EVERYONE who attends an event at Camp McDowell a “camper” because the Alabama Folk School, parish retreats, and Youth Department events include book collections in their registration forms. This summer individuals, including Lilly Taylor who collected 2,203 books, and members of parishes, who collected more than 800 books, helped provide books for campers at Sawyerville Day Camp in Hale County and the library of South Highlands Middle School in Union Springs (Bullock County), Alabama. We began collecting books in 2006, and since then we have delivered 8,000 books to the Sawyerville Day Camp and various Black Belt schools. That is pretty amazing! Thank you, thank you, campers!!! And thank you Camp McDowell!! Jakoya, Betsy, Shykeem, and Sherrod with Mrs. Capps, the librarian of South Highland Middle School in Union Springs, opening boxes of books from Camp McDowell ½ÌÊ ÃÃÊ9ÕÀÊ >Vit By Danielle Dunbar, Director of the Alabama Folk School
This past summer, the October 23(24)-28 Pottery Week and the 14th Annual Old-time Guitar led by Jim Holland Alabama Folk School at Camp Watercolor Workshop Old-time Banjo led by Hillary Dirlam McDowell offered two sessions Enjoy a week of pottery from hand building to glaz- Old-time Mandolin led by Carl Jones of classes in Mosaics, Hand ing. Artist Scott Bennett of Red Dot Gallery in Birming- Lace-Weave Chair Caning led by Gwen Chafin Weaving (Twining), T-Shirt ham, will get you all Timber Frame Construction led by Stephen Morrison Memory Quilts, Celtic Flute fired up about working White Oak Basketry led by Bill and Mary Ann Smith and Whistles, and Celtic Guitar with clay! Simple Life Skills—Making Soap, Raising Chickens, Bee- Accompaniment. As always, the Join many returning keeping, and More led by Laura Spencer participants shared stories about watercolor students for Harmonica Clinic led by Luke Richardson our creative journeys, learned new skills, and took time the 14th Annual Watercolor Workshop. Please contact Tora 0LEASE VISIT OUR 7EB SITE WWWCAMPMCDOWELL away from busy lives to renew themselves in the beauty of Johnson at [email protected] for more information. COMFOLKSCHOOLSCHEDULE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE Camp McDowell and the enthusiasm of new friendships. TEACHERS AND CLASSES WE WILL BE OFFERING IN Don’t miss your chance this fall to be a part of this November 4-8 Old Time Music and Crafts AND )F THERES A CLASS YOU WOULD LIKE US TO OF special community at Camp McDowell! Choose one of The classes include: FER PLEASE lLL OUT AN ONLINE SURVEY TO HELP US MEET the following sessions, and come join us at “Wonderful, Intermediate/Advanced Fiddle led by James Bryan YOUR WISHES For more information please contact me at Wonderful” Camp McDowell. Intermediate Fiddle led by Mick Kinney [email protected] or 205/387-1806.
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ÀÊÌ iÊ ÕÌ>ÃÊÌÊÌ iÊÕvp >}ÊÌ iÊ iVÌÃ By Maggie Wade Johnston, Environmental Center Director
with stops along the way at Little River Canyon, Cheaha journey home talking about ways to include more about State Park, Wetumpka Impact Crater, and Dauphin Island local ecology issues in their classrooms and curriculums. Sea Lab. Along the route, we asked probing questions and The staffs of McDowell Environmental Center and the delved into the mind of each of the three professors who other partners who organized this hands-on learning traveled with us. Geology forms the foundation on which all else lies, so understand- ing what lies beneath the surface is important. As teachers better compre- hend the connections between creation and their own lives, they are more qualified to convey ecological information to their students. The group hiked into the canyons of Camp McDowell and stopped at road cuts and even parking lots to Dr. Jim Lacefield leading a session on the geology of our state study the rock structure uncovered when Mother At Cheaha State Park Life is all about making connections. Whether you are Earth’s forces (or earth-mov- searching for a job or seeking spiritual guidance, making ing equipment) reveal the beauty below. Many zip-top expedition believe that these 20 teachers will have a huge good connections is vital. bags of fossils and rocks later, the teachers began to piece influence on the children they teach this school year and At the McDowell Environmental Center, we believe together the giant puzzle of what has happened in the beyond. For more information please visit www.campmc- Mother Nature is the ultimate connecter! For many distant past in the region that we now call Alabama. dowell.com or contact me at [email protected] people, especially children, who have disconnected from Another crucial element in our ecology is the water or 205/387-1806. the outside world by choosing television, computers, and we often take for granted. Along our route technology over the woods, these “connections” can be from the mountains to the Gulf, we stopped difficult to make and even harder to get excited about. at numerous streams and rivers to test the Richard Louv, in his bestseller Last Child in the Woods, water quality, look for tiny invertebrates liv- refers to this as the “Nature Deficit Disorder.” ing there, and study maps to see the water’s In June, Camp McDowell partnered with the Gulf of own route to the Gulf. As you can imagine, Mexico Alliance (GOMA), Legacy—Partners in Envi- the watersheds of Alabama are intimately ronmental Education (www.getthetag.com), the Envi- connected to the geological features beneath ronmental Education Association of Alabama, Jacksonville them. State University Field Schools, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, As a final component to the ecologi- and Alabama Water Watch to present an amazing teacher cal connections, we examined the flora and workshop called “Mountains to the Gulf.” A group of 20 fauna that live in our state. We began the teachers from across Alabama met at Camp McDowell week with an Alabama Neighbors program and traveled the state for a week with three of the South- led by Big Dave at Camp McDowell, and we east’s top professors—Dr. Jim Lacefield, author of Lost ended it with a day on the Gulf of Mexico Worlds in Alabama Rocks; Dr. Bill Deutsch, founder of Ala- aboard one of the research vessels from Dau- bama Water Watch; and Dr. George Cline, a herpetologist phin Island Sea Lab. from Jacksonville State University. These experts guided Even after a long week on the road, the the teachers through all of the ecoregions of our state, teachers were so excited that they spent the Aboard a Dauphin Island Sea Lab research vessel
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when I was a summer camper. Environmental Center educational programs. Plans provide Since 1948, Camp McDowell for both a teaching farm and a production farm that will has been a “spiritual village” for provide food for our guests. In addition, the Alabama Folk hundreds of thousands of people School will find a home in Bethany Village with dedicated who have come here for Summer studio space and a dance/music hall. Camp sessions, Special Session, As part of the Bethany Village project, we will continue Youth Department events, Vocare, to make Camp McDowell a vision of the way the world McDowell Environmental Center could be. The farms and Farm Education Program will classes, Alabama Folk School work- provide living examples. We plan to use windmills as well as shops, Cursillo-related events, parish solar, geothermal, and biofuels at camp, and we are shaping retreats, conferences, and many other Camp McDowell as a place that does not contribute waste occasions. For the past several years, to landfills—all of which will exemplify an eco-friendly Bishop Sloan, who has been my lifestyle. We are also planning to upgrade the Rec Hall in friend since our seminary days, and the current camp area and make Eppes Hall more energy I have dreamed of adding facilities efficient. And we intend to employ more people with that will allow even more children of disabilities, or as Bishop Sloan says, “those with disabilities God to come to Camp McDowell more apparent than ours.” to learn, grow, worship, and play. A master plan of Bethany Village has been drafted, and Bethany is where Jesus’ friends architects, planners, contractors, and engineers have volun- lived, and Bethany Village at Camp teered their services. The next step is seeking permission McDowell will have a group of from our Diocesan Council to do a feasibility study to lodges similar to Miller Commons determine how much money might be raised to construct “Enthusiastic” and “optimistic”—words that describe for parish retreats and conferences. It will also include a Bethany Village. the feelings of everyone who is working to make Bethany new very “green” and accessible camp area suitable for For more information about Bethany Village, please visit Village at Camp McDowell a wonderful reality for our hosting additional Special Sessions each summer. Bethany Camp McDowell’s Web site, www.campmcdowell.com, or diocesan family. We believe that “it takes a village to raise Village also will host a residential Farm Education Program contact me at [email protected] or 205/387-1806. a child,” and Camp McDowell truly was a village for me for schoolchildren, mimicking the successful McDowell / >Ê9Õ]ÊÀi`Ãt By Mark Johnston, Vicar and Executive Director of Camp McDowell
not receive any funds from our diocese except the executive Many thanks to the “Friends of Camp McDowell” director’s salary? These facts make Camp McDowell unique. and everyone else who helped make these things happen! Virtually every other Episcopal camp and conference center Here are some other ways you can help. depends on diocesan subsidy, fundraising, and/or endow- ment income to balance its budget. * Make a donation to improve camp resources and/or Did you know that Camp McDowell is the 4th largest programs. Episcopal camp and conference center and one of the * Donate new or gently used items, including rugs, lamps, busiest? Because we are a large and busy center and be- end tables, and artwork, for Stough Lodge (please see cause we manage Camp McDowell carefully, we are able “Sharing God’s Creation and a Ministry of Hospitality” to keep our rates low enough that almost everyone in our on page 7). diocesan family can afford to attend. * Volunteer to work with Clyde’s Builders (twice a year). Our budget provides little money for extra things * Recruit a school to participate in the Camp McDowell though, and we depend on gifts from our “Friends of Environmental Center education program. Camp McDowell” and others to help us fund facility * Donate a vehicle to Camp McDowell. upgrades and improvements while keeping our rates low. * Contributing to the Camp McDowell Scholarship The next time you visit Camp McDowell, look at the Fund—campers depend on your support! new lamps and artwork in Stough Lodge and the new * Include Camp McDowell in your estate planning. tile and carpet in the common rooms in Miller Com- mons. Thanks to contributions, we have also been able to If you are interested in any of these ideas or have a Did you know that Camp McDowell operates as a busi- order new bedspreads for the conference center and new better one—and for more information about the “Friends ness? Did you know that the rates our guests and campers rocking chairs to replace the “rocking fatigued” ones. The of Camp McDowell” group, please contact me at mark@ pay cover almost all of the expenses—and that our rates are camp staff will also gladly show you the much-needed campmcdowell.com or 205/387-1806. I am looking for- some of the lowest of all the Episcopal camp and confer- and appreciated new copy machine and laptop computers ward to hearing from you! ence centers? Did you know that Camp McDowell does in our offices.
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ºÌÊ7>ÃÊÌ iÊ iÃÌÊ-ÕiÀÊ ÛiÀt» By Susanna Whitsett, Summer Camp Coordinator
How do we love summer camp? Let us count the ways—it is magical and messy, blessed and busy, exciting and tiring, mysterious and moving. We love summer camp as campers—when we make friends and laughter fills the cabin on a hot summer morning. We love summer camp as the volunteer program staff—when campers watch our silly skits that actually convey religious doctrine that lives are built upon. We love summer camp as summer staff members—who are too exhausted to know we are having the time of our lives. We love summer camp as parents— when our children come back home more independent, joyful, and insightful than when they left. As the pictures show (please see the front cover and pages 12-13, and visit www.campmcdowell.com), we covered a lot of ground at Camp McDowell during sum- mer 2011—canoeing, hiking, playing, praying, working, worshiping, laughing, swimming, arts and crafting, going to Tillers, floating down the creek, camping, community- building, blueberry-picking, singing, sweating, learning, listening, hearing, seeing, and feeling. Most of the camp- ers and staff had the best time of their lives, while some others felt homesick or had to make a trip to the Health Hut—this is part of summer camp too. We take all of it— the good, the great, and the greatly difficult—and work with it, learn from it, celebrate it, and ask God’s blessing upon it. We have already received God’s blessing by get- ting to be a part of God’s backyard! This summer marks my first as Summer Camp Co- ordinator, following in the footsteps of my good friend Michael Goldsmith. Coming to camp in this capacity, Many thanks to the hardworking 2011 Camp McDowell summer staff who served as the hands and feet of summer camp—they worshiped, and serving under the Rev. Mark Johnston’s leadership, worked, and played all summer long with all of the children who came to camp this summer! (Top row) *ORDAN ,EE senior cabin counsel- has been and continues to be a richly rewarding and or (wearing a purple shirt); 3TRATT "YARS head counselor; -URRAY 3TEWART workcrew; 7ILL 3PARKS workcrew/cabin counselor/health often challenging experience for me and my family. I hut assistant; 'ABE 2OSSER cabin counselor; 4HOMAS ,ANE music director/lifeguard; *IM 3ANDERS cabin counselor; (middle row) have strived with the summer staff to put a new focus %MILY (ANSON arts and crafts director (wearing a flowered dress); !NNA "RYANT summer camp registrar/ropes course director; -ADI on the core theology of camp: sacramental ministry. We 4URNER cabin counselor; -EREDITH -EELHEIM cabin counselor; 2ICHARD !RMISTEAD workcrew; 2ACHEL 3MITH cabin counselor; have tried to live as sacramental people through Christian 3USANNA 7HITSETT summer camp coordinator; %MMY &AISON cabin counselor; #ATHERINE 0OLLENITZ cabin counselor; #AROLINE -ARTIN cabin counselor; 6IKASH .ARAN cabin counselor; 0* 'RASS cabin counselor; (front row) *ULIA %RWIN workcrew/cabin coun- community, worship, activities and music, and program. In selor/health hut assistant; -ARY %MMA +INGSLEY senior cabin counselor; #HRISTINE #OVELL lifeguard; 'INNY .IX lifeguard; 3AUNDERS addition, we have seen an increase in awareness of health -C%LROY cabin counselor; 3LOANE "REWER activities director; 4AYLOR -OODY cabin counselor; !SHLEY &RYE waterfront director; and wellness, aspects of professional development, collec- .ANCY %VANS chief medical officer of Camp McDowell; (kneeling) $ANNY 4ANNER lifeguard (not pictured because she left camp early tive consciousness of Camp McDowell’s recent and more to go to Uganda with the Invisible Children organization, !LLISON +ENDRICK support staff/nanny) distant history, and spiritual growth and development of the permanent summer staff. Keyse (Middler Camp), the Rev. Tim Murphy (Primary can only be matched by the smiles on the more than Every member of our 2011 summer staff and perma- 2), the Rev. Susan Sloan (Elementary 2), the Rev. Mark 1,400 campers who came through Camp McDowell’s nent staff worked tirelessly to make this summer a beauti- Waldo (Junior High 2), and the Rev. Charles Youngson gates this summer. ful and bountiful experience for each of the campers. We (Primary 1)—for their leadership, love, and the learning I hope that each of you will have an opportunity to thank all of this year’s session directors—the Rev. Re- they imprinted on the hearts and minds of campers and visit Camp McDowell soon—there is so much to do, so becca DeBow (Junior High 1), the Rev. Stephen Hood staff members alike. We also thank all of the many other much to learn and celebrate, so much to love! (Elementary 1), the Rev. Rob Iler (Senior Camp), the clergy and lay leaders who brought themselves and their Rev. Thomas Joyner (Sophomore Camp), the Rev. Andy gifts and talents to camp. My gratitude for each of them
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By Susanna Whitsett, Summer Camp Director; Photos by Anna Bryant, the Rev. Mark Waldo Jr., and Summer Camp Staff
In the jargon of the campers, “It was the best summer ever!” With more than 1,400 campers joining us in God’s Backyard, it was a busy one, full of laughter and learning and nurtured by phenomenal permanent and seasonal staff, volunteers, and beloved parish priests (please see the story on page 11). I hope that you will have an opportunity to visit camp soon. There is so much to do, so much to learn and celebrate, so much to love!
Primary Camp Primary Camp Elementary Camp Elementary Camp
Elementary Camp Elementary Camp
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Middler Camp Middler Camp Middler Camp
Junior High Camp Junior High Camp Junior High Camp
Sophomore Camp Sophomore Camp Sophomore Camp
Senior Camp Senior Camp Senior Camp
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The University of the South, Holy Cross Episcopal School, and other Episcopal-related educational institutions share the heritage of nurturing “an academic mind” and “a servant’s honorable heart” in every student.
Cobbs went to Lookout Mountain, Ten- Mrs. Harold Nicrosi responded to a request in her nessee, to meet with Bishop Leonidas Polk parish newsletter: “If you are interested in exploring of Louisiana and delegates from a total of the possibility of an Episcopal School in Montgomery, 10 dioceses to discuss the beginnings of please contact Melanie Kelley or Roy Elam.” She used what would become the University of the the information she found about St. John’s Day School, South. In November 1857, delegates of the which operated from 1953 to 1962, to help with plan- 10 dioceses met at St. John’s to continue ning Holy Cross Episcopal School. As Episcopalians planning the university, which initially was came together on this extraordinary project, St. John’s for “Southern men.” They voted down Atlanta, Georgia, and Huntsville, Alabama, in favor of Sewanee, Tennessee, as the site of the campus, and the university’s newly appointed trustees chose the name “The University of the South.” As happens in tough economic times, funding dwindled during the financial crisis of 1857, which put plans for the uni- versity on hold. By 1859, the economy had improved, and planned construction began in earnest. Despite damage and disruptions during the Civil War years, the University of the South held its first convocation in 1868. When Vice Chancellor John McCardell Jr. addressed the university’s students in 2010, he summed up the value of the liberal arts, faith-based education the founders who met at St. John’s in 1857 envisioned and the University of the South continues to offer today. “We at Sewanee St. John’s Episcopal Church in Montgomery share something special, even unique,” the vice chancellor noted. “That something This is the story of two Episcopal educational involves an awareness of history, a sensitiv- institutions. One is a university, and one is an elemen- ity to place, a respect for the natural order and a love of tary school. One is in Sewanee, Tennessee, and one is the God who created it, and a commitment to honor- in Montgomery, Alabama. One was founded in the able conduct. From these distinguishing characteristics, mid-1800s, and one was founded in 1998. Yet they have and perhaps especially from our Episcopal heritage, deep-rooted connections, beginning with St. John’s emerges our insistence upon principles that lie at our Episcopal Church in Montgomery. very core: the worth of all persons and, in the words of According to the parish’s historical documents and our liturgy, a prayer that we may always ‘strive for jus- The Life of St. John’s Parish: A History of St. John’s Episco- tice among all people and respect the dignity of every pal Church from 1834 to 1955 by Mattie Pegues Wood, human being.’ ” Bishop Nicholas Hamner Cobbs reported the idea of In 1998, more than than 140 years after Bishop “planning a Southern University, to be conducted un- Cobbs reported plans being made for a “Southern Uni- der the auspices of the Church” during the May 1857 versity” during the diocesan convention at St. John’s, convention of our diocese held at St. John’s in Mont- another group of Episcopalians from several parishes in gomery. (Bishop Cobbs served as the first Episcopal Montgomery, including the Ascension, Holy Comfort- Bishop of the Diocese of Alabama from 1844-1861 and er, St. John’s, met at St. John’s to plan the latest addi- also rector of St. John’s from 1854-1855.) tion to the Episcopal academic tradition—Holy Cross Two months after that diocesan convention, Bishop Episcopal School. Chapel of the Annunciation on the campus of Holy Cross Episcopal School in Montgomery
/ Ê Ê *- "* ÊUÊ- */ ,É" /" ,ÊÓ䣣 ÀÕ`Ê"ÕÀÊ ViÃi / iÊ>L>>Ê «ÃV«>>ÊUÊ£xÊ emerged as a leading supporter, and the parish’s rector, the Rev. Robert Wisnewski, was chosen to serve as the first chair of the board for the new school. /i>V iÀÊÌ>iÃÊÞÊ ÀÃÃÊ Furthering Holy Cross Episcopal School’s connec- tion to St. John’s, the lovely chapel that now sits on the school’s campus was once a mission church of St. John’s. Known as the Church of the Annunciation, the mission church was built in 1896 on Plum Street. In i`Ê >ÞÊ- ÀÌÃÊÌÊ À>â 1910, the mission church changed its name to Christ Submitted by Kimberly Ramsey, Holy Cross Episcopal School in Montgomery Church and continued operating until 1924, when the building was sold as a residence. Fast forward to 1998. The Rev. Rich Webster, who was then serving as St. John’s curate, received a phone call from a lady who claimed she was living in a build- ing that St. John’s once owned. When Rich arrived at the residence, the lady asked him to take a look at the attic—he was amazed to see Gothic architecture beams one after the other under the roof, with each arched beam containing a cross. St. John’s purchased the resi- dence from the owner and moved the portions of the building that were salvageable, including the ceiling beams and cornerstone, to the Holy Cross campus. The little Church of the Annunciation now serves as the school’s chapel where the children come every morn- ing to praise God and learn of His love for them. Both the University of the South and Holy Cross Episcopal School focus on the mind, body, and spirit of each student. Both provide small, academic envi- ronments that offer a liberal arts education. Students in both institutions take classes—and many students excel—in foreign languages, math, sciences, visual arts, theater arts, music, creative writing, English, and social studies/history, while also learning about outreach and service to others. “We want to create an academic mind and a servant’s heart in each child we teach,” Teacher Matt Arrigi with Wendall, wearing his new Holy Cross Field Day shirt explains Melanie Kelley, the principal of Holy Cross This past June, 20 Americans and 6 Brazilians gathered ally. They accomplished both. They built a church and Episcopal School. in Belem, Brazil, for an 8-day mission trip. The Americans, held a dedication service their last night in the communi- The University of the South, Holy Cross Episco- who came from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, included ty, and they spread the message of love and salvation that pal School, and other Episcopal-related educational Matt Arrigi, the physical education teacher at Holy Cross comes through Jesus Christ not only by their presence institutions share the heritage of nurturing “an aca- Episcopal School in Montgomery. but also by distributing clothing (including Holy Cross demic mind” and “a servant’s honorable heart” in every The American–Brazilian team had two goals—to help Field Day shirts), toys, and hundreds of Bibles translated student. It’s a timeless deep-rooted connection. the people who live in Belem both physically and spiritu- into Portuguese. Û>ÌÛiÊ,iÃÕÀViÃÊ ÜÊÛ>>Li By the Rev. Deacon Judy Quick, Our Diocesan Coordinator for Episcopal Relief and Development
help children have an increased respect for God’s creation and also the needs of others around the world,” explains Betsy. “We also chose to invite St. Francis of Assisi to accompany us during the week! Twenty-eight children and 20 hardworking volunteers came together day after day to learn about loving God, loving creation, and loving all of God’s children near and far. “We distributed Episcopal Relief and Development ‘mite boxes’ at the beginning of the week and collected Episcopal Relief and Development is now offering them and blessed the contents on the last day—the innovative Christian formation resources for children, children raised $160.26 all by themselves to be sent to youth, and adults. The Rev. Betsy Powell, associate rector Alabama Tornado Relief!” Betsy adds. “We ended every of St. Paul’s in Selma, along with the Rev. Deacon Joanie The Rev. Betsy Powell, associate rector of St. Paul’s in Selma, leading a day around the baptismal font in the nave for song and Vacation Bible School class in “Growing with St. Francis—The Abundant Hammonds, Barbara Pritchard, and Liz Taylor adapted some prayers. Thanks to everyone whose prayers and hard work Life Garden Project” of the available curriculum and created “Growing with made this such a wonderful week for our children—and St. Francis—The Abundant Life Garden Project” for the thanks to each of the children for letting Christ’s light and 8421. To see a summary of the available Episcopal Relief and parish’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) last summer. love shine through them!” Development resources that you can download free, please “Our children experienced a five-day VBS based on For more about St. Paul’s “Growing with St. Francis— visit www.er-d.org. If you would like a presentation on the the Episcopal Relief and Development’s new program The Abundant Life Garden Project,” please contact the Rev. work of Episcopal Relief and Development, please contact me “The Abundant Life Garden Project,” which is aimed to Betsy Powell at [email protected] or 334/874- at [email protected] or 205/669-6862.
/ Ê Ê *- "* ÊUÊ- */ ,É" /" ,ÊÓ䣣 £ÈÊUÊ/ iÊ>L>>Ê «ÃV«>> ÀÕ`Ê"ÕÀÊ ViÃi Ài>Ì}Ê-iÃp"iÊ ÀiÃÃÊ>ÌÊ>Ê/i By Anne Roy, a Member of Trinity in Florence
What female doesn’t love something brand-new to gave the rest of the dresses to a group of people from spark to get a fire going.” It only takes a dress to get some wear? More than 50 girls and women in Haiti are now Edgemont United Methodist Church in Florence who smiles going, and we hope that you will not only help wearing new designer dresses—and smiling—thanks to a just happened to be leaving for a mission trip to Haiti. us spread the word about the dresses but also consider group of seamstresses in the Shoals. The women at First Presbyterian Church in Florence sewing a dress! Just visit www.creativekindness.com, and This summer the women of Trinity Church in read about our sewing project on Facebook, and at a search for “little dresses for Africa” to download a free Florence started sewing sundresses to send to an recent church convention, they heard a speaker who is orphanage in Haiti, where we have a personal contact. the director of another orphanage in Haiti. Now they A member of Grace Church in Sheffield read about are encouraging women throughout their district to sew As the familiar song reminds us, our project in “Tidings,” Trinity’s newsletter, and before dresses to send to Haiti. A member of a quilting group long the women at Grace Church started sewing like that has made more the 100 quilts for victims of the April “It only takes a spark to get a fire crazy! Soon we had more than 50 original creations to 27th tornadoes in Alabama recently called me to get the send. Since there are only 26 girls in the orphanage, we pattern—and now they are making dresses for Haiti too! going.” It only takes a dress to get Eight couples from some smiles going, and we hope that Knoxville, Tennessee, are in the process of adopting 10 you will not only help us spread the girls in Haiti, a daunting undertaking that is costing word about the dresses but also con- each family about $40,000. Some members of these sider sewing a dress! families have been traveling to Haiti monthly to help the girls in the orphanage pattern for either the dresses or pants. It takes about a yard they are working with, of fabric and an hour to make a dress. as well as people in the If you can’t or don’t want to sew, please consider surrounding remote areas. buying some much-needed and appreciated underwear Preston Cunningham, who to send with the dresses. Also please pray for the children just completed his sixth trip in Haiti who have lost their parents or been abandoned, to Haiti, traveled with a and pray that the adoption process for the couples in Baptist missionary group— Knoxville and elsewhere will be completed as quickly as and he took some of our possible. dresses with him. For more information please contact Anne Roy at As the familiar song Trinity Church in Florence, [email protected] or reminds us, “It only takes a 256/436-5080.
/ Ê Ê *- "* ÊUÊ- */ ,É" /" ,ÊÓ䣣 ÀÕ`Ê"ÕÀÊ ViÃi / iÊ>L>>Ê «ÃV«>>ÊUÊ£ÇÊ ,iiLiÀ}Ê À°Ê-v>Ê >Û>iÌÌ]ÊÕ`iÀÊvÊ Ì iÊ >ÌiV iÃÃÊvÊÌ iÊ`Ê- i« iÀ` Amanda Jones and Christian Formation Director together for more than 50 years listening to and observing well as numerous articles, many of which are in the annual Stephanie Diethelm, of All Saints’ in Birmingham, and children in the context of a prepared religious environment Journals of the National Association of Catechesis of the Sarah Sartain, Diocesan Deputy for Christian Formation called an atrium, basing their approach on the principles Good Shepherd. and Youth Ministries, contributed to this article. of education developed by Maria Montessori. What the Sofia believed that the formation of adults as catechists Dr. Sofia Cavalletti, the founder of the Catechesis children revealed to them was their unexpected capacities to children was vital. She shared her biblical scholarship of the Good Shepherd, died peacefully at her home in for relationship with God. and liturgical studies, along with her observations of the Rome, Italy, on August 23 at the age of children’s responses to certain biblical and 94. As a mentor of many people in the liturgical themes, in lectures, seminars, and area of children’s religious and spiritual courses for adults as well as through some formation, Sofia goes ahead of a large of her books. Once Sofia’s books were family of catechists and children in 37 published in other countries, she and countries around the world. Gianna were somewhat surprised by the Sofia leaves to the world an ap- interest and development of their work proach to the Christian formation of beyond Rome. People began to come to children from the ages of 3 to 12 that is them seeking training courses or inviting theologically sound, systematic, and rich them to lead courses in other countries. in Bible, liturgy, and sacred history. Sofia’s The first time training in the reverence for the Bible and liturgy, her Catechesis of the Good Shepherd was fresh and compelling style of writing and offered in the United States was 1975, speaking, her wise and intelligent way of when Sofia taught a course in St. Paul, discussing complicated theological themes Minnesota. Since that time, churches simply, her sense of humor, and personal of various denominations as well as warmth will be greatly missed by many. schools and families have begun using the Sofia received her degree in Hebrew Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, which and Comparative Semitic Languages from is often referred to as a “movement of the Universita La Sapienza in Rome, the Spirit in the Church” for children as and she contributed to several editions well as adults that is a theologically sound of the Bible (Old Testament), translating and systematic approach to Christian Isaiah, Leviticus, Ruth, Esther, Judith, and Proverbs, and to Children from very diverse geographical, social, and formation rich in the Bible, liturgy, and sacred history. The international publications on biblical studies. She was also a cultural environments responded to this relationship with a Catechesis of the Good Shepherd was brought to Alabama specialist in the field of ecumenism, especially pertaining to profound sense of joy that, as Sofia described, it “puts them in 2003 and is now practiced in more than 10 churches in the Jewish-Christian relationship. in a particular state of peace, such as to make us think that the Birmingham area. In 1954, Sofia began to work with children in this relationship satisfies a vital need within children.” Her For more information please visit the National collaboration with Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori educator. experiences and insights about children’s spirituality are well Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in the Both of them felt called and inspired by the children they documented in her books such as The Religious Potential of USA, www.cgsusa.org, or contact Sarah Sartain, ssartain@ served to listen, watch, and deepen an understanding of the Child, The Religious Potential of the Child, Six to Twelve dioala.org or 205/715-2060 ext. 314, or Stephanie Diethelm, children’s spirituality in relationship with God. They worked Years, and The Good Shepherd and the Child: A Joyful Journey as [email protected] or 205/769-3189.
*ÀÛ`}ÊÛ>ÌÛiÊ,iÃ`iÌÊ-iÀÛVià Submitted by Kris Mueller, Director of Development
Episcopal Place in Birmingham recently received housekeeping programs for residents who can no longer Proceeds from the sale of the cards, which are suitable to the second-place award in a national competition cook or clean their apartments; resident activities and health send to family members and friends as well as business that recognizes innovative thinking among housing programs; the St. Teresa of Avila Fund, a relief fund for contacts, will benefit the St. Teresa of Avila Fund, which communities that serve the elderly. The Innovation in residents in need; and worship services and pastoral care. helps residents who are experiencing temporary financial Service Coordination Awards, sponsored by Critical Signal “This national recognition is evidence of our dedication hardship. Technologies, were presented to three housing facilities to helping our residents live independently in their own Located on Birmingham’s Southside, Episcopal Place serves during a national training conference for the American homes with the help of supportive service,” notes Tim 148 seniors and disabled adults with limited incomes who live in Association of Service Coordinators. Blanton, executive director of Episcopal Place. “It takes the facility’s 141 apartments that are rent-subsidized by HUD (the Service Coordinator Shannon Atchenson, who a team effort for us to achieve the high standards of our Department of Housing and Urban Development). The mission coordinates the “ECares” Supportive Services Program, ECares program, but our Service Coordinator sets the bar of the nonprofit organization is to provide affordable housing accepted the award for Episcopal Place. Our ECares for putting the needs of our residents at the forefront of all and supportive services so that residents can live and age with program provides supportive services designed to help that we do.” independence and dignity. Episcopal Place is unique among HUD residents age in place and stay independent for as long as Episcopal Place offers a number of classes and other facilities because of the scope of its “ECares” program, which is possible. It includes transportation to medical appointments, enrichment activities for the residents. This year, some of funded by donations from the community. For more information grocery stores, banks, shopping malls, and cultural the men and women who are in watercolor or graphite art please contact Kris Mueller at [email protected] and recreational activities; subsidized noon meals and classes designed Christmas cards as a fundraising project. or 205/939-0085 or visit www.episcopalplace.org.
/ Ê Ê *- "* ÊUÊ- */ ,É" /" ,ÊÓ䣣 £nÊUÊ/ iÊ>L>>Ê «ÃV«>> ÀÕ`Ê"ÕÀÊ ViÃi ëÌ>ÌÞpÊ7>ÞÊvÊ i}Ê7 Ê7iÊÀi By the Rev. Dan Thornton, Rector of St. Wilfrid’s in Marion; Photo by Bill Hansen
guests in God’s created universe. Hospitality must be the centrality, the focus of the Church in the commu- nity, in the world, and in our hearts. Without hospitality we are “as sounding gongs.” My emphasis is not on a “do good” attitude that rings hollow as a mere show of welcome. The law of hospitality, in essence, requires the same kind of rela- tionship that Jesus developed with his closest followers, even to the death—the extreme of hospitality—and to the last commandment that Jesus left with his closest disciples: “This command I leave with you, that you love one another even as I have loved you. You will be known as my followers as you love one another,” he said. That commandment is the center of the Gospel, not a demeaning affection for one over another, but a love that sees each person as a part of the larger love of Christ. It is difficult to explain how hospitality works at St. Wilfrid’s. Pretty much it’s a way of being who we are. It begins with invitation—people in our parish com- munity invite others to meet us, to learn who we are. When others come, we welcome them unconditionally and treat them like family. For example, we invite visitors and newcomers to As I struggle with what it takes to keep a small par- ing ourselves. Hospitality means meeting persons where join us for lunch after our worship service. We have ish viable and even growing, “hospitality” keeps coming they are, making the field of encounter level—a meet- a tradition of meeting for lunch at a local restaurant, to my mind. ing of equals in living regardless of social or economic where we fill a whole room almost every Sunday. Dur- I believe the greatest gift the Church has to offer circumstances. ing the week, we host home dinners for students from is hospitality. The ancient law of hospitality demanded Judson College and Marion Military Institute. that a host protect and serve a guest, not allowing any In addition, we open our doors to community harm to come to the guest while that person stayed It is difficult to explain how hospital- organizations including the local interdenominational under the roof of the host. The concept of hospitality CrossTies, which meets at our place bimonthly, and the involves more than merely being friendly and welcom- ity works at St. Wilfrid’s. Pretty continuing education program for the staff of the local ing, although being that way is surely a part of hospital- nursing home. People in town say that we are always ity. Hospitality demands that the welcome be sincere, much it’s a way of being who we are. available and present to do things in the community, that a host project a sense of trust to his guest, and that It begins with invitation—people in and people who come to our “home” say that they the guest becomes a member of the host’s family for the have hardly ever, if ever, been so warmly welcomed and duration of the stay. It is imperative that the welcome our parish community invite others to cared for as at our home. fulfill the comprehensive meaning of the Spanish phrase We are just a welcoming and caring “family” ¡bienvenido!—“welcome home!” meet us, to learn who we are. When who takes the ancient idea of hospitality to heart. We Being a member of the family and being welcomed contribute our time and ourselves to the community “home” engenders a responsibility for both the one others come, we welcome them uncon- at large as well as to each other in our parish family. being welcomed the one who welcomes because of the ditionally and treat them like family. Although it isn’t a designed program, hospitality at St. interdependency between family members. The hos- Wilfrid’s is the intentional desire to meet people where pitality of the Church also transcends local boundaries they are and who they are without judgment and to and expands to become universal caring. In addition, care for them as part of our family. hospitality for the Church includes caring for the soul Hospitality is difficult; it is as well as meeting physical and mental needs. How we the way, as Jesus said and lived. attend to each other in the Church will dictate how we Hospitality is honoring the same- attend to each other every day in the everyday business ness of our human condition of living. In our baptismal vows, we promise to treat in all people; it is overcoming every other person as we would treat our friends or the hesitation to love caused by ourselves—to recognize and honor the integrity of ev- fear of difference, the tendency ery person regardless of who that person is. That is the to hate because of jealousy, the essence of hospitality: to allow persons to be without desire to overcome because of our dictatorial pronouncements about good and evil greed (for wealth, power, or and without judgment and to realize the different paths anything else). Hospitality is the people may choose to travel and to aid them in their call of Christ to love, honor, and journeys. abide with others whose journey Hospitality is seeing the Christ in others and at- path crosses or runs beside ours. tempting to imitate Christ in our treatment of them. It is the outstretched hand, the The traditional word for hospitality is love—love with- open door, the wish of goodwill out condition, love of humanness in all people, includ- and peace for all of us who are
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working on building projects with Habitat for Human- ity and other organizations to help others in need. In Birmingham/Pratt City, Saw- yerville, and the Huntsville/ Madison County areas, par- ishes are working with Fam- ily Partnership and Adopt a Family programs in “walking” with families through their recovery and offering spiri- tual, emotional, financial, and physical support, which may even include volunteer work to help a family repair or re- build their home. In Cullman and Tuscaloosa Counties, we volunteer teams from Georgia, Ohio, South Carolina, and have used Episcopal Relief Texas who worked in Fort Payne, Phil Campbell, Pratt and Development funds City, St. Clair County, Sawyerville, and Tuscaloosa. Local Photo by Kelley Hudlow to hire case managers who parishes hosted the teams working in these areas. Our are in contact with families diocese will continue to welcome volunteer teams to help The generosity of donations and hard labor contin- who might have unmet needs. In Tuscaloosa County, we with the rebuilding efforts during the fall months. ues to guide the long-term recovery efforts for families have hired a construction manager to oversee the actual For more information about how you might help with suffering from the 62 tornadoes that struck central and construction phase of recovery, and construction of new this long-term recovery ministry, please contact one of northern Alabama on April 27. Volunteer teams from homes with diocesan and local parish resources has begun our Episcopal Church Disaster Response Coordinators, throughout our diocese and 20 states are wielding ham- in at least six locations. The members of Trinity Church in Bill King at [email protected] or Judy Quick at mers and paintbrushes to help families rebuild their Florence are working with the local authorities in Marion [email protected]. homes and their lives. and Franklin Counties to respond to If you are interested—or if you know of someone who the needs of tornado survivors in Phil is interested—in volunteering in one of the recovery areas, Campbell and Hackleburg. please contact our Diocesan Tornado Volunteer Team You might see our Episcopal Coordinator David Whetstone at whetstone@cableone. Disaster Response Trailer anywhere net or 256/282-9760. from DeKalb and Jackson Counties If your parish wants to provide food and/or lodging for in the north to Tuscaloosa and Hale volunteer teams, please contact David Whetstone at whet- Counties in the south. In addition, an [email protected] or 256/282-9769. Episcopal Disaster Response Shower Trailer, constructed by the Rev. Deacon Clyde Pearce, is providing a much-needed and ap- preciated resource for volunteers. “The response of the parishes throughout our diocese to this horrible disaster has been phe- Photo by Kelley Hudlow nomenal,” notes Judy
Quick. “Parishes continue The visible work of rebuilding homes is now under to offer their gifts of time and money to those way, but “this is just the beginning of a long-term re- suffering from tornado damage. We are grate- sponse on the part of the Episcopal Church in Alabama,” ful also for the generous donations to our the Rev. Bill King emphasizes. “We will be in need of Diocesan Tornado Relief Fund and Episcopal continued funding and volunteer effort for many more Relief and Development, which enable our months,” he explains. diocese to support local efforts to meet local In Calhoun, Cullman, DeKalb, Franklin, Jackson, Jef- needs.” ferson, Madison, Marion, Marshall, St. Clair, and Tusca- Over the summer, our diocese welcomed loosa Counties, volunteers have already spent weekends Photo by George Pelekis
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/CTOBER 3UNDAY 10:30 a.m. Bishop Parsley, Grace, Mt. Meigs >À}>ÀiÌÊ 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, St. Luke’s, Jacksonville
/CTOBER 7EDNESDAY >À}>Ê V >>Ê 6:30 p.m. Bishop Parsley, Trinity, Clanton 6:30 p.m. Bishop Sloan, Messiah, Heflin -ÌÕ} /CTOBER 3UNDAY Margaret McCaa at Camp McDowell about the time she met Furman 9:30 a.m. Bishop Parsley, Grace, Cullman “Billy” Stough 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, St. Catherine’s, Chelsea Mrs. Margaret Dargan McCaa Stough, widow of the Rt. Rev. Fur- /CTOBER 3UNDAY man C. Stough, Eighth Bishop of 10:30 a.m. Bishop Parsley, St. Thomas’, Alabama, died on August 9. Her death Birmingham is mourned by her family, friends, and 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, Holy Apostles’, our diocesan community. Birmingham “The diocese is grateful for her life and ministry among us,” said Bishop .OVEMBER 7EDNESDAY Parsley. “May she rest in peace and rise 6 p.m. Bishop Sloan, St. John’s Deaf, in glory.” Birmingham “Thank you so much for all your thoughts, prayers, telephone calls, and .OVEMBER 3UNDAY expressions of comfort during these 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, Holy Spirit, Alabaster past years,” Leslie Stough Lynch said in expressing the family’s gratitude. .OVEMBER 7EDNESDAY (Back row) Pat and Leslie Stough Lynch, (front) Kathleen Lynch, Margaret McCaa Stough, “Please know how important each Mary Margaret Lynch, Leisa Stough Wilson, Bishop Stough, and Lauren Lynch in the mid- 5 p.m. Bishop Sloan, Calvary, Oneonta and every one of you have been in our 1990s; the Rev. Mark Johnston, Executive Director and Vicar of Camp McDowell gave the lives. Thank you for allowing us to be “Heaven” sign (that once hung on the workboy cabin) to Bishop Stough in appreciation of his .OVEMBER 3UNDAY work on Camp McDowell’s capital campaign. part of yours.” 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, Epiphany, Leeds
.OVEMBER 3UNDAY 10:15 a.m. Bishop Sloan, Trinity, Wetumpka iÀ}ÞÊ iÜÃ
.OVEMBER 3UNDAY 4HE 2EV % $AVID "ASINGER *R has retired as the 4HE 2EV #ANON (EIDI +INNER began serving as the 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, Holy Cross, Trussville rector of St. Timothy’s in Athens. Dean of the Cathedral of St. Peter in the Diocese of Mon- 4HE 2EV 2ICHARD ( #OBBS )6 has retired as the tana in September. Heidi previously served as the vice-dean $ECEMBER 3UNDAY rector of St. Paul’s in Greensboro. at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham. 10:30 a.m. Bishop Sloan, St. Luke’s, Birmingham 4HE 2EV $AVID $ILL has begun serving as the rector 4HE 2EV +ATIE .AKAMURA 2ENGERS is serving as the of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Decatur. transitional deacon-in-charge of St. Michael’s in Fayette. $ECEMBER 3ATURDAY 4HE 2EV $AVID 0ERKINS is serving as the interim 6 p.m. Bishop Sloan, Iglesia Episcopal de la 4HE 2EV %VAN 'ARNER will begin serving as the rector of Holy Comforter in Montgomery. Gracia, Birmingham rector of St. John’s in Decatur in November. Evan previously served as associate rector of St. John’s in 4HE 2EV #ALLIE 0LUNKET "REWTON is serving as a $ECEMBER 3UNDAY Montgomery. transitional deacon at Grace Church in Sheffield. Callie 9 a.m. and Bishop Sloan, St. Stephen’s, 4HE 2EV -ATTHEW 'RUNFELD began serving as priest- is also continuing her work in Campus Ministry and 11 a.m. Birmingham in-charge of All Saints’ in Montgomery in September. the University of North Alabama. 4HE 2EV "OB (ENDERSON is serving as the priest-in- 4HE 2EV *OSIAH 2ENGERS is serving as rector of St. $ECEMBER 7EDNESDAY charge of Trinity Church in Wetumpka. Stephen’s in Eutaw. 7 p.m. Bishop Sloan, St. Columba, 4HE 2EV $ERRICK (ILL is serving as a transitional dea- 4HE 2EV ,ARRY 3HARPTON has retired as the rector of Huntsville con at St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands in Birmingham. the Church of the Epiphany in Tallassee. 4HE 2EV "ASYE (OLLAND 3HUEY is serving as a 4HE 2EV ,OUIE 3KIPPER is serving as the rector of $ECEMBER 3UNDAY South Talladega Episcopal Ministries in Sylacauga, 10 a.m. Bishop Sloan, St. Mary’s, Jasper transitional deacon-in-charge of Holy Cross-St. Christopher’s in Huntsville. Childersburg, and Alpine. 4HE 2EV %RIC 3TELLE who served as the associate rec- $ECEMBER 7EDNESDAY 4HE 2EV %D (UNT will begin serving as the rector of tor of All Saints’ in Birmingham, has accepted a call to 6 p.m. Bishop Sloan, Epiphany, Tallassee St. Andrew’s in Birmingham in October. Ed is currently the rector of Zion Episcopal Church in Rome, New serve in the Diocese of Olympia (Washington). $ECEMBER 3ATURDAY York. 4HE 2EV 2AY 7ALDON has accepted the position of 10:30 p.m. Bishop Sloan, Advent, Birmingham 4HE 2EV (UGH *ONES is serving as the interim rector Dean of the Cathedral in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ray of St. Michael and All Angels’ in Anniston. previously served as priest-in-charge of St. Peter’s in Talladega.
/ Ê Ê *- "* ÊUÊ- */ ,É" /" ,ÊÓ䣣 ÀÕ`Ê"ÕÀÊ ViÃi / iÊ>L>>Ê «ÃV«>>ÊUÊÓ£Ê ÕÀV Ê i>`iÀÃÊ"««ÃiÊ}À>ÌÊ >Üp Õ`}iÊÃÃÕiÃÊ,Õ}ÊÊ*Ài>ÀÞÊÕVÌ As The Alabama Episcopalian went to press, Chief U.S. Archdiocese of Mobile, and Bishop Robert J. Baker of moved from the final bill. “We bishops agree that this is not District Judge Sharon Blackburn issued a ruling on mo- the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham a complaint to stop acceptable and that we must ensure the churches’ ability to tions requesting a preliminary injunction to block imple- enforcement of the law, which they believe would prevent minister the love of Christ to all people,” said Parsley. “The mentation of Alabama’s new immigration law, HB-56, the free exercise of religion. diocesan council discussed this matter at great length and which religious leaders believe would criminalize many of Judge Blackburn consolidated the bishops’ complaint supported the action I have taken. The chancellors of the the churches’ ministries. “The ruling is a painfully mixed with lawsuits filed by the U.S. Justice Department and bishops have generously collaborated in this and join us in picture,” says Bishop Parsley. “There is good news in the Hispanic advocacy groups. The suits were subsequently believing this action was right and necessary. judge’s preliminary blocking of some aspects of the law. separated by the judge who ruled on the motions for a “I am sure that there are differing opinions about im- One of these is the section that the suit filed by me and the preliminary injunction September 28. migration law in our country and about HB-56,” Bishop other bishops was most concerned about, section 13, which, “We believe that our involvement in this case has been Parsley acknowledged. “I respect those who have other in our judgment, could make it a criminal offense to offer necessary and important. We will continue to provide food, points of view and who wish to express them to us. Christian care and assistance to an undocumented person. shelter, transportation, housing, and the church’s sacraments “It is clear that our current federal immigration laws “This section was blocked by a preliminary injunc- to all of God’s people, regardless of race, class, or citizenship urgently need significant reform. I support such reform tion under the suit filed by the Justice Department. The status,” said Bishop Parsley. and obviously believe that we all must live under the rule result is the same as our request, so we are relieved by this “If allowed to stand in its original form, this law could of law,” he said. “Just as surely the church must continue to ruling and hope that the injunction will become perma- be interpreted to criminalize many of the ministries that be free to minister to all persons and offer worship and care nent. It protects our churches’ ministries from prosecution are at the heart of Christian service,” Bishop Parsley ex- in the name of God to them in all circumstances. Loving under this overreaching law and substantially protects our plained. “Ministries such as daycare, health clinics, feeding our neighbors as ourselves, Jesus said, is at the very heart of religious liberties,” Bishop Parsley explains. “Some other programs such as Community Kitchens and beans and rice God’s law. HB-56 is already creating a climate of fear and parts of the law were blocked by the ruling, but most of ministries, hospitality networks, and even worship and sac- inhospitality among our neighbors, which the church must the law is now in effect. Unfortunately, in my view and ramental ministries would become subject to severe restric- oppose. that of many others, it remains a mean-spirited law and the tions and penalties of this law. Further, we believe that the “I ask that you keep this action in your prayers and seek nation’s most harsh anti-immigration statute. Alabama is Alabama law is not consistent with the First Amendment to understand why we bishops together believe that this simply better than this.” of our Constitution and oversteps the boundaries between complaint was necessary. We trust that our actions will have On August 1, Bishop Parsley filed ecumenically with church and state.” good effect in helping our church and state work together Bishop William H. Willimon of the United Method- Early versions of the legislation provided a degree of to make Alabama a place of love and care for all of God’s ist Church, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi of the Catholic exemption for churches; however, the exemption was re- people.” ºvÊÊ>`Ê>Ê>iÀ»p Ê viÀiViÊ *ÀÛ`iÃÊ*>Àà iÃÊÜÌ Ê/à By the Rev. Lynette Lanphere, Rector of the Epiphany in Leeds pleted his second year on staff. This year’s participants opment and Leadership in the Diocese of Olympia, led from Alabama included teams and individuals from Christ the college. The college has several aims, but its primary Church in Albertville, St. Catherine’s in Chelsea, St. focus is to develop, foster, and encourage healthy, sustain- Bartholomew’s in Florence, Holy Cross-St. Christopher’s able congregations grounded in a robust identity that in Huntsville, the Epiphany in Leeds, St. Michael and All is rooted in an Anglican ethos and spirituality. It is also designed to develop parish leaders who are both aware of and responsive to the particular challenges and opportuni- ties before them. Translated another way, participants came As the rector of a small parish, I away from the experience with a great “toolbox” full of found the college to be one of the ideas and concrete next steps for developing and strength- ening their parishes. During the sessions, challenges were richest and most beneficial continuing raised but with very practical, doable steps in place to successfully meet them. education experiences I’ve had. I The college provides a nearly perfect blend of theory would easily recommend it to others. and practice, reflection and action, and group and indi- The Duncan M. Gray Camp and Conference Center, vidual work—all in the context of prayer, conversation on located outside Canton, Mississippi, was home to more many levels, and a party or two thrown in for good mea- than 60 lay and ordained parish leaders June 25-July 2 for sure! As the rector of a small parish, I found the college the second year of the Cooperative College for Congre- Angels’ in Millbrook, Grace Church in Mt. Meigs, Em- to be one of the richest and most beneficial continuing gational Development (CCCD). manuel in Opelika, and St. Matthias’ in Tuscaloosa. Our education experiences I’ve had. I would easily recom- The two-year college is sponsored and staffed by diocesan Department of Parish Development generously mend it to others. leaders from six southern dioceses—Alabama, Arkansas, funds a portion of the cost to participate in the confer- For more information about the Cooperative College Eastern Carolina, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Upper South ence. for Congregational Development, please contact the Carolina. The Rev. Pat Wingo, our diocesan Deputy for The Rev. Canon Melissa Skelton, rector of St. Paul’s Rev. Pat Wingo at [email protected] or 205/715-2060 Ministry Development and Clergy Deployment, com- Church in Seattle and Canon for Congregational Devel- ext. 317.
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UPCOMING EVENTS, W ORKSHOPS, AND RETREATS
COMMISSION ON tion of the Jungian concept of shadow—those things in magazine described it as “one of the greatest achieve- every life that have been disowned in the exterior world ments in organ recording.” SPIRITUALITY FALL RETREAT and still exist in the interior life. This is a key step to take Dr. Filsell’s performance is presented as a part of Inde- November 18-19 at the Ascension in on the inner path simply because we cannot understand pendent Presbyterian Church’s 47th annual November Or- Birmingham much about ourselves until we know something about gan Recital Series. The nave of Independent Presbyterian Our diocesan Commission what is hidden inside. Then, in a session called “Whole- Church currently is being renovated before the installation on Spirituality is proud to spon- ness and Incarnation,” we will explore and discuss biblical of the Joseph Schreiber Memorial Organ, and the church sor and invite you to attend “There Is More To You Than themes of God’s presence in every moment and every has asked the Ascension, St. Mary’s-on-the-Highlands, and You Think” led by the Rt. thing and every place—whether or not we know it and Samford University to host this year’s events. Rev. Larry Maze. Bishop Maze whether or not we care. Saturday’s schedule will also in- The public is cordially invited to this free concert and retired as the 12th Bishop of clude “Dream Workshop” and “Dreamwork—Discussion the reception that will follow the performance. For more Arkansas in 2007 and has been and Questions.” The retreat will end about 3 p.m. information please contact Music Director and Organist the Bishop-in-Residence at For more information please contact Sarah Sartain at Mike Sparks at [email protected] or St. Mark’s in Little Rock since [email protected] or 205/715-2060 ext. 314. The regis- 205/822-3480. 2008. He now preaches and tration deadline is November 10. lectures on Jungian spiritual- ity and dreamwork and how it interfaces with Christian 2012 OUTREACH SUMMIT spirituality. He has taught ORGAN RECITAL FEATURING DR. JEREMY January 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Rt. Rev. Larry Maze teaching conferences in many FILSELL The amazing success and energy from the 2010 Out- areas of the Southeast and serves on November 20 at 4 p.m. at the Ascension in Birmingham reach Summit has spurred the Department of Mission and Outreach to organize the 2012 Outreach Summit. the faculty of the Haden Institute. Dr. Jeremy Filsell, who The summit will include workshops for small, medium, The retreat will begin Friday at currently is the artist-in- and large parishes with specialized “best practices” sessions 6:30 p.m. with “Walking the Inner residence at Washington on a variety of ministries. Let us know what workshops Faith . . . and Then What?” Paying National Cathedral, would be meaningful to you! attention to the inner life contained previously served as the Who should attend? in every soul is countercultural in senior organist of the Clergy, lay leaders, parish outreach chairs, and anyone our fast-paced, materialistic, and National Shrine of the interested in outreach highly rational society. Most people Immaculate Conception Expected outcomes: who seriously walk an inner path in Washington, DC. His * A renewed energy for mission and outreach have made an intentional decision discography includes * Information sharing and networking opportunities with to go there. Our opening talk will more than 25 CDs of selections played on both piano and others interested in outreach explore the importance of making organ, and he maintains a busy performance career on * Practical tips on implementing and sustaining outreach that decision and what to do once both instruments throughout Europe, Scandinavia, and activities the journey is launched. North America. In commenting on his series of 12 CDs For more information please contact the Rev. Deacon On Saturday we’ll begin with “Discovering the Shad- that comprised the premiere recordings of Marcel Dupré’s Judy Quick, chair of our diocesan Department of Mission ow—Making Sense of Our Interior World,” an explora- complete organ works for Guild in 2000, Gramophone and Outreach, at [email protected] or 205/669-6862. ,iÛ>Ìi`Ê*`ÊÕÃiÊ ÜÊVVi«Ì}Ê,iÃiÀÛ>ÌÃ By Diocesan Staff; Photos by Dan Miller and the Rev. Wren Miller
Pond House, our diocese’s small group overnight meeting and retreat facility, has been reno- accommo- vated to include additional meeting space dations are and several upgrades and is now accepting provided reservations for day and overnight gath- for up to erings. Situated on 40 wooded acres off 12 guests I-20 close to Pell City, the facility is well in four suited for meetings, seminars, conferences, sleeping retreats, weddings, and other events. areas, and a Pond House, which is operated for variety of our diocese by St. Peter’s in Talladega, was additional donated to the parish in 1992 by Col. and lodging is available within a 15-minute drive. Pond Mrs. Hugh Cort. Available year-round, House features a fully equipped kitchen, and several it offers space for up to 30 people in its restaurants are nearby. main meeting area with additional indoor For more information please visit the new Pond and outdoor meeting, breakout, and social House Web site, http://pondhouse.net, or contact areas. The property features walking trails Donna Dase at [email protected] or 256/362- and a stocked 3-acre pond. Comfortable 2505.
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WHAT’S NEW/NOTEWORTHY AT THE EPISCOPAL BOOK STORE MARK Y OUR CALENDAR
Parenting Is Your Highest Calling: And Cursillo Weekend #180 October 19-23 November 18 Midday Musical Menu featuring the 8 Other Myths That Trap Us in Worry Retirement Celebration Honoring the Parsleys Alabama School of Fine Arts Orchestra and Choir at 12:30 and Guilt BY ,ESLIE ,EYLAND &IELDS October 28 at The Club in Birmingham p.m. at the Advent in Birmingham. For more information please As the mother of six, Leslie Leyland Youth Department District Day Events October 30 contact Dr. Charles Kennedy at [email protected] or Fields knows firsthand the insecurities Youth Department Christmas Conference December 205/443-8553. and questions that come with rearing 28-30 at Camp McDowell children. In this provocative book, she ex- Consecration of the 11th Bishop of Alabama January November 18-19 “There Is More To You Than You Might plores with refreshing honesty the myths 7 at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham Think” Fall Retreat sponsored by our diocesan Commission that can lead to unrealistic expectations Diocesan Ultreya January 27-29 at Camp McDowell on Spirituality and led by the Rt. Rev. Larry Maze at the and distract us from God’s purposes for Diocesan Convention February 17-18 in Huntsville Ascension in Birmingham. For more information please see the our children and us. These myths include: Youth Department Spring Event March 23-25 at Camp description on page 22 or contact Sarah Sartain at ssartain@dioala. s #HILDREN MAKE YOU HAPPY AND BRING GREAT FULlLLMENT McDowell org or 205/715-2060 ext. 314. s9O U WILL ALWAYS FEEL LOVE FOR YOUR CHILD s9O U R SUCCESS AS A PARENT CAN BE MEASURED BY YOUR CHILDS October 15 14th Annual Angel Fest at St. Michael and November 20 Organ Recital Series performance featuring behavior. All Angels’ in Millbrook, featuring unique arts and crafts, a Dr. Jeremy Filsell at 4 p.m. at the Ascension in Birmingham. s4HERE IS ONE hRIGHTv BIBLICAL MODEL FOR FAMILY LIFE silent auction, food, and entertainment, from 9 a.m. to 2 For more information please see the description on page 22 or contact s 'OOD PARENTING WILL RESULT IN HAPPY CHILDREN p.m. to benefit the community. For more information please call Mark Sparks at [email protected] or 205/822- Through a close look at God’s own life as a parent as well as 334/293-3385 or e-mail [email protected]. 3480. stories from real-life families, Leslie highlights the transforming biblical truths that release parents from the grip of mistaken as- October 16 Evensong sung by the Cathedral Choir at 4 December 16 Midday Musical Concert “A Christmas Cel- sumptions. Fresh, provocative insights will lead you to a deeper p.m. at the Advent in Birmingham. For more information please ebration” featuring the G. W. Carver Concert Choir at 12:30 understanding of God and yourself—an understanding that lifts contact Dr. Charles Kennedy at [email protected] or p.m. at the Advent in Birmingham. For more information please the weight of guilt and fear and frees you to love your children 205/443-8553. contact Dr. Charles Kennedy at [email protected] or as God intended. The book includes “going deeper” questions 205/443-8553. that can be used by individuals, couples, and groups. October 21 Midday Musical Menu handbell concert fea- turing Kelly Jensen at 12:30 p.m. at the Advent in Birming- January 6-8 Church Leadership Conference “Leading and The Grace Effect BY ,ARRY 4AUNTON ham. For more information please contact Dr. Charles Kennedy at Innovating a Mission-Shaped Church” at Kanuga in Hen- What does Christianity give us [email protected] or 205/443-8553. dersonville, North Carolina. For more information please visit beyond televangelists, potlucks, and bad www.kanuga.org or call 828/692-9136. basketball leagues? Not much, accord- November 4-5 SPAFER 2011 Lecture Series featuring ing to the secular Left. The world, they Bishop John Shelby Spong speaking on “Eternal Life” and January 28 Outreach Summit For more information please say, would be a better place without it. Jesus for the Non-Religious.” For more information please e- see the description on page 22 or contact the Rev. Deacon Judy Historian and Christian apologist Larry mail [email protected] or visit www.spafer.org. Quick at [email protected] or 205/669-6862. Taunton has spent much of his career The Bible Book by Book: A Journey through refuting just this sort of thinking, but Its People, Places and Themes BY #RIS ë>VÊ7Àà «}Ê when he encounters Sasha, a golden- 2OGERS haired Ukrainian orphan girl whose life The Bible Book by Book offers a fully ÕÌiÃÊÊ"ÕÀÊ ViÃi has been shaped by atheistic theorists, he discovers an unlikely illustrated introduction to each book of the All Saints’ Church champion for the transforming power of grace. Through the Bible, written and designed for teens and 70 17th Street Northwest narrative of Sasha’s redemption, we see the false promises of youth workers. Each 1,200 to 1,500–word socialism, the soul-destroying influence of unbelief, and how introduction can be read in five minutes. The Aliceville, AL 35442 a society cultivates its own demise when it rejects the ultimate pithy, direct, effective presentations will help teens and youth 205/367-7508 source of grace. We see, in short, the kind of world the atheists workers experience Scripture as the living story of God and would give us: a world without Christianity—cold, pitiless, His people, not just words on a page. This makes a great gift for Iglesia Episcopal de la Gracia and graceless. And yet, as Sasha shows us, it is a world that is a high-school or college student. 901 Kingman Road not beyond the healing power of “the grace effect.” Occasion- Birmingham, AL 35235-1237 ally infuriating, often amusing, but always inspiring, The Grace My 1st Book of Questions and Answers 205/838-2565 Effect will have you cheering for the courageous little girl BY #ARINE -AC+ENZIE http://gracia.dioala.org/ who shows us how to conquer the long-term consequences of “I want to commend this resource to [email protected] spiritual indifference. you. Carine MacKenzie’s My 1st Book of Questions and Answers provides a great St. Philip’s Church The Gilded Chamber BY 2EBECCA +OHN catechism for children. Take it out during 2813 Godfrey Avenue Northeast For centuries Esther’s name has been suppertime, read a question or two, and Fort Payne, AL 35967-3746 a byword for feminine beauty, guile, and teach your children the answers provided. 256/845-1192 wisdom. This sweeping, meticulously When you’ve finished the book, start [email protected] researched novel restores Esther to her over! You will find that both you and full, complex humanity while reanimating your children will be well-formed in Christian understanding, The Church of the Ascension the glittering Persian empire in which her and soon talking about faith in your home will seem com- 315 Clanton Avenue story unfolded. Esther comes to that land pletely natural.” —The Rev. Canon Joe Gibbes, Cathedral Church Montgomery, AL 36104-5598 as a terrified Jewish orphan betrothed to of the Advent in Birmingham her cousin, a well-connected courtier. She 334/263-5529 finds a world racked by intrigue and unfathomable hatreds, and The bookstore is open Monday through Thursday from 10 www.coascension.org she realizes that the only way to survive is to win the heart of a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. For its king. Passionate, suspenseful, and historically authentic, The information about these and other books or to have the staff For more information about Hispanic ministries Gilded Chamber illuminates the dilemma of a woman torn research and special order a particular book, please contact the in our diocese, please contact the Rev. Dr. Hernan between her heart and her sense of duty, resulting in pure nar- Episcopal Book Store, 2015 Sixth Avenue North, Birmingham, Afanador-Kafury, our diocesan Hispanic Missioner, at rative enchantment. AL 35203; 205/323-2959; [email protected]; or visit [email protected] or 205/381-4885. the bookstore online at www.episcobooks.com.
/ Ê Ê *- "* ÊUÊ- */ ,É" /" ,ÊÓ䣣 THE ALABAMA EPISCOPALIAN *>ÃÌÊ«iÀviVÌ]Ê*ÀiÃiÌÊ«iÊ*ÀiVÌÊ Õ>ÌiÃÊÊÃÌÀVÊ-iÀÛVi By the Rev. Deacon Tom Osborne, Cochair of our Commission on Race Relations; Photos by the Rev. Deacon Dave Drachlis
“Past Imperfect, Present Hope.” Our ber and lament our part in the institution of diocesan Commission on Race Relations as- slavery both active and passive, from which signed this well-chosen name to our project the Church benefited, and our slowness to of gathering historical memories and personal support civil rights for our African American stories about the role the Episcopal Church sisters and brothers.” He also gave voice to in Alabama played in slavery and segregation the Church’s repentance for its failures and and the role we are now playing in helping shortcomings of the past: “We are not the overcome that legacy of discrimination. Church of then. We are the Church of now, In 2006, the delegates to our 75th General where all are welcome, a Church very differ- Convention adopted a resolution endorsing ent from the early 19th century. Even though the principles of restorative justice and call- we have a long way to go, we have yet come ing on the people of the Episcopal Church a long way.” to engage in storytelling about historical and Following a solemn reading of the names present-day privilege and under-privilege. In of the civil rights martyrs of Alabama, Bishop response to the General Convention resolu- Parsley led the standing-room-only gather- tion, the delegates to our 2008 Annual Di- ing in a litany of penitence. A gong sounded ocesan Convention adopted a resolution that as the litany began, and the congregation our Church strive to be “the repairer of the responded to each of the petitions with the breach” (Isaiah 58:12) and to achieve spiritual moving words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: healing and reconciliation that will lead us to “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it a new life in Christ. Our diocesan resolution also called for Remembrance, Repentance, and Reconciliation. During bends toward justice.” our Commission on Race Relations to develop resources the service, Bishop Parsley celebrated Holy Eucharist on The service concluded with James Weldon Johnson’s to document slavery, segregation, and discrimination in our the bench used by the judge during the trial of the man “Lift Every Voice,” which for many years was known as the diocese, and the efforts we have undertaken to repair and who shot and killed Jonathan Daniels, an Episcopal semi- Negro National Anthem. rectify the tragedy of narian who had come to Alabama to help register African “Sing a song full of the slavery and the sin of American voters. Jonathan died on August 20, 1965, while faith that the dark past racism. In addition, he was shielding then 16-year-old Ruby Sales from a has taught us; sing a song the resolution called shotgun blast as she attempted to enter a store to buy a soft full of the hope that the for a day of repen- drink—an all-white jury acquitted the man who fired the present has brought us; tance. gun. Now in that same place, almost 300 people, black and facing the rising sun of For more than white, prayed for true justice and reconciliation and shared our new day begun, let two years, parish the body and blood of Christ. us march on, till victory historians around In his sermon, Bishop Parsley pointed to the words of is won.” our diocese collected St. Paul in his letter to the Galatians, “There is no longer The Church cel- stories and materi- Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no ebrates its Alabama als from written longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Martyrs every year in this histories and old Jesus.” Bishop Parsley spoke of Paul’s radical vision of a place, but this year it did vestry minutes. We world changed by the reconciling love of God in Christ. more. It called a solemn created a three-panel Paul made the remarkable leap “from his belief that on the assembly, collectively pictorial timeline to cross God was reconciling the world to himself to the faith confessed and repented illustrate the history that this meant the reconciliation of us with one another.” of the sin of racism, and of race relations in the Episcopal Church in Alabama, and Bishop Parsley held up Jonathan Daniels, who he said saw asserted the truth that for the Body of Christ there is only we prepared a liturgy for a historic service as part of this the truth of Paul’s words and was bold enough to live them, one ministry, the ministry of reconciliation. year’s annual Jonathan Myrick Daniels and the Martyrs of so much so that he was willing to give his life for this vi- For more about this year’s Pilgrimage and the historic Alabama Pilgrimage. sion of radical equality. Service of Remembrance, Repentance, and Reconciliation, It all came together on August 13 in the Lowndes Bishop Parsley recalled our Church’s tragic part in and to see the pictorial timeline, please visit our diocesan County courthouse in Hayneville in a moving Service of the sin of racism over the years: “We especially remem- Web site, www.dioala.org.
The Alabama Episcopalian The Alabama Episcopalian is published six times a year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and November/December). For the most current news about recent and upcoming events, please visit our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. 0LEASE SEND STORIES AND PHOTOGRAPHS (color, if available) to Editor Norma McKittrick at [email protected] or 2156 Kent Way, Birmingham, AL 35226; the submission deadline for each issue is the 1st of the month prior to publication. 0OSTMASTER PARISHES AND INDIVIDUALS PLEASE SEND ALL ADDRESS CHANGES OR ADDITIONS to Circulation Secretary Denise Servant at [email protected] or Carpenter House, 521 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203–2682. Keep up with the latest news from around our diocese between issues of The Alabama Episcopalian on our diocesan Web site, www.dioala.org. )F YOU ARE NOT ALREADY RECEIVING OUR h7EB 3ITE 5PDATE v you can sign up to receive a weekly e-mail containing headlines with links to the latest news, photos, and videos about and from around our diocese. Simply send an e-mail with your name and e-mail address to [email protected] and put “Headlines” on the subject line. You can “opt out” anytime.
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