the voices of st. paul’s

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 6050 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 Introduction

The histories of congregations are often told through the lenses of their buildings and clergy.

Eras are defined by which building the congregation used or by the successes — or failures — of the clergy person who led the congregation at a particular time. Sometimes important events are highlighted to illustrate a turning point in the life of a faith community.

Often missing from these histories are the voices of the people who actually make up the congregation. When these personal experiences are lost, the true story of a parish cannot be told. Without these stories we do not hear the true impact that a parish community has on those who seek God both within and without its walls.

What you will read and experience in these pages are the voices of the true St. Paul’s, the people who — whether for decades or only a few months—sit in the pews, come to the altar for nourishment, participate in and lead our ministries, reach out to the neediest in the world around us, generously give to make our mission a reality and bring to our community a spirit of love, welcome and acceptance that transforms strangers into friends and friends into brothers and sisters in Christ.

This booklet is, in a very informal sense, a continuation of the story told in the official parish history, Blessings on Thee Old St. Paul’s written by Alice Roettger and Joseph Thompson in 2000. While it doesn’t contain the detail from the official records of the church as the history does, it continues in the spirit of that history by telling the personal stories of the people of the parish. This is, in the words of Meredith Nicholson from the 50th anniversary of St. Paul’s in 1916, “a response of many voices testifying gratefully to what this structure of brick and stone has meant to everyone who ever enjoyed the shelter of these walls.”

The Rev. John E. Denson, Jr., D. Min. Rector “Our reason for telling stories is not simply to repeat the past but to bring the past into the present for the sake of the future.” ~ Carl Dudley

Our charge as members of the St. Paul’s 150th Anniversary Committee was to work together to identify ways to commemorate and celebrate this significant milestone in the life of the arish.P The Voices of St. Paul’s is a collection of remembered stories that provide a glimpse into our past. They are expressions of appreciation for the diverse and inclusive community we have become. Together they convey the deep faith that binds us together and strengthens our commitment to ministry in the world.

Community, meaning, connection, journey, care, acceptance, welcome, warmth, endurance, belonging, change, resilience, leadership…these are some of the themes that surface throughout these stories. The voices you will “hear” as you read these reflections capture the collective meaning of St. Paul’s historical identity, vocation and an emerging future to which we aspire.

Embedded within the collection of stories gathered are three important elements of history — observation, documentation and memory. In reading them we hope you too will experience the transcendent presence of God’s love and grace, and the powerful and transforming nature of this love in the members of St. Paul’s.

Voices of St. Paul’s Project Committee Stephanie Denson, Mary Anne Winslow, Katherine Tyler Scott

St. Paul’s 150th Anniversary Committee • Kate Appel • Doug Rogers • Carrie Bernhart • Bev Ruebeck • Rick Bernhart • Fred Ruebeck • John Denson • Fred D. Scott • Stephanie Denson • Katherine Tyler Scott • Alice Roettger • Mary Anne Winslow

We are deeply grateful for the support of the 150th Anniversary Committee and others whose expertise and assistance made The Voices of St. Paul’s a reality: • Michael Jack • Emily Morgan • Barbara Haberman Mihal • Mike Morgan • Ryne Webb

introduction - 3 - the voices of st. Paul’s

Essays are in alphabetical order by last name. See page 43 for an index.

Rick and Becky Adams We are longtime members of St. Paul’s. I was baptized here in 1952; Becky was confirmed after our marriage in 1976. I’ll share a few, out of many, highlights of our life at St. Paul’s.

We’ve been pretty active, particularly in St. Paul’s Choir. Our three children were all choristers. What a great experience for all of us that has been! In 1987, all five of us went to England on a choir tour where we had the privilege of being choir-in-residence in York Minster Cathedral, Ely Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. We spent a week in each of those amazing, sacred, historical churches, singing daily Evensong and a choral mass on Sunday. In each of those places, we were graciously received and thanked for being a part of its history.

St. Paul’s has been the church home for many of our extended family as well. On many Sundays in the 1980s and early 1990s, four generations of our family worshipped here. In this age of social mobility, this is a unique distinction for which we are very grateful.

While St. Paul’s was undergoing major renovation, we held our regular Sunday services in the Parish Hall! We brought over our old altar (now in the Chapel), and adapted to the space nicely. For Easter Sunday, our neighbors at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation (IHC) invited us to worship in their synagogue. What a wonderful, meaningful gesture. Many IHC members were on hand for our service, respectful of and interested in our worship, and genuinely pleased we were there. A historic and most memorable Easter for us.

We love worshiping at St. Paul’s, as we gather on Sundays to celebrate the ancient rite, and the beauty of the liturgy, music old and new, that connects us with our Christian heritage. Our new, renovated liturgical space reflects our connection with our past and our moving into the future.

Nancy Miller Aiken [A St. Paul’s Memory] When my family first started attending St. Paul’s, we attended the old church downtown. My parents, Henrietta and Ray Miller, sang in the choir and when we were old enough, my sister Sally Miller Peck and I came too and sat in a pew, sometimes with my Grandmother Jones. I loved listening to the choir sing. The organ was pretty old as I recall; it was a pretty old church!

The plans for the new church had to be shelved due to World War II building material restrictions, but we were able to rent the American Legion Hall in Broad Ripple. We managed to make it into something resembling a place to worship, but no choir or organ here! There was an old upright piano that was workable, and the rector at that time, Dr. Burrows, would play when it came time to sing the hymns. He would put his foot on the “loud” pedal, and leave it there during the whole hymn, playing the same chord all the time, or so it sounded. It was pretty awful.

We all sang as best we could with it. Finally one Sunday Margot Griffith turned to my Mother and said, “You know how to play the piano! Do it.” And so she did. Down the road a Junior Choir for girls was started, and eventually my mother became the director. It was my pleasure to sing in that choir. What a sweet memory! Andrea Allen When I finally decided to visit St. Paul’s after years of putting it off, I didn’t know what to expect. I found a warm, caring community that opened their arms and welcomed us in. It felt like home. St. Paul’s has become an integral part of our lives. It’s the faith-based community I wanted my children to be a part of, just like St. Andrews was for me during my childhood. I’ve always believed that a church is not a building but a community of caring people. St. Paul’s and its members wholeheartedly embody this.

Kate Appel [My Many Blessings] A long time ago a friend suggested we give St. Paul’s a try. Our 10-year-old daughters were good friends and that was the age to start the choir, so we all agreed to give it a go. Well, the girls and my friend didn’t make it past the first two weeks but, as a long time singer and lapsed church attendee, I was hooked and have stayed.

Why? I love the Episcopal liturgy; I was raised in the Episcopal Church. By attending church regularly I love the weekly reminder of my moral responsibility to help my fellow man, the environment and ourselves. It is a time to stop and pause, think and listen. I love the music and how it enhances the weekly service. I learn a lot about music and Christianity being in the choir. Most important is the community created in the choir and the parish.

Standing up in the choir loft we lead, participate and observe. Being behind the organ and the laity is a won- derful vantage point to see the congregation as a whole – the families in the way back and on the sides, the parent walking the infant or toddler during the service, the older and longtime parishioners in the front, the visitors on the fringes, the infirm, the general ebb and flow of the parish due to the time of year, but also the noticeable growth! The youth and the families are a visible sign to me that others are finding a home here too.

My daughter and son-in-law are now members, as is my infant granddaughter. Palm Sunday was her first time to attend church. From where I stand, although they were in the back, I could see her in her very tall father’s arms. When the brass, timpani, organ and choir joined together for the introit, I saw her turn her head to her father with an expression of “WOW, THIS IS COOL!”

Music brought me to St. Paul’s, music has kept me here, and by my granddaughter’s expression, I think is a strong sign for the next generation in my family. This is one of my many blessings.

Michael Arnett My wife and I came to St. Paul’s only occasionally before we moved to Broad Ripple four years ago, but once were a quick drive away we got into the regular habit of going every Sunday. This turned out to be an amazing blessing. Listening to the readings from the Bible during each service, I finally understood the overwhelming beauty of Jesus’s message to us: that every person is of equal and infinite value in God’s eyes, and that living to serve God is what we are here for.

This spiritual growth served me well as I dealt with taking care of my elderly father and coped with his passing, and as I took on a job dealing with a very challenging group of patients. At two points in my life, when I felt nearly overwhelmed by these challenges, The Rev. Barbara Kempf, a very gifted spiritual healer, said just the right words and prayed for me, which gave me the strength to persevere.

To worship each Sunday with a wonderful group of people who are dedicated to Christian faith and service is now an indispensable part of our lives, and we look forward to deepening our commitment in the future.

the voices of st. paul’s - 5 - Tom and Ania Beczkiewicz After years of searching for a spiritual home, we discovered St. Paul’s seven years ago with its beautiful liturgical traditions heightened by splendid choral music, both ancient and modern. But it wasn’t the grandeur of the setting that most appealed to us; it was the welcoming spirit that made us instantly a part of its community of worship. Never before did we understand what it meant to be a part of the “communion of saints” and the profound joy it brings. The church itself, to be sure, is a sacred space, but its members are inspired to carry the spirit of St. Paul’s far beyond the stone walls into their daily lives. We are so deeply grateful to be a part of this community and to be recipients of its many blessings.

Rick and Carrie Bernhardt St Paul’s is a church. It is a beautiful worship space, a font of glorious music and liturgy, an educational space for children and adults, and, most of all, a family that serves as an inspiration to our own family. St. Paul’s is the foundation of love and compromise upon which our marriage was built. It inspires and houses the communities of music and motherhood that are outlets for our talents and sources of many of our friendships, and the lessons we learn here serve as a framework to teach our children about the inclusive and loving nature of God. We would like to share our story of coming to St Paul’s.

I was 9 years old, living 184 miles from here, and had no idea what the word “Episcopal” meant. I was Presby- terian, the 4th generation of my family growing up in the same church, and our church had just hired a young, energetic choir director. It was decided that we would have an RSCM based program, and this choir director went to the best one around to learn how to do it. He, of course, came to Indianapolis and spent two weeks learning about the program here at St. Paul’s. He returned to Evansville and began building a replica. I was the first chorister in that program, actually the only chorister for a year, and the experience I gained during that time inspired a love of choral music, specifically the brand of church music we sing here, which shaped my life to this day. Ten years ago, when I moved here during medical school, I was working 80 hours a week and had no family or other significant tie to the outside world, or so I thought. I did have a connection, though, something that felt very familiar when I decided to try out the choir here. The choir, and this place, immedi- ately felt like home, and the people became my family, encouraging me and supporting me to this day.

One and one half years later, I was blessed to meet Carrie. We had many things in common, including that strong family tie to a church and a religion. Carrie, though, being her strong, independent self, had some disagreements with the church of her background, and as a consequence, was not regularly attending. I eventually cajoled her into joining me here for services, and she felt the same sense of familiarity that I had felt, even though we were currently worshipping in the Parish Hall, due to our major renovation project. St. Paul’s inspired her to revive her faith and take a brave step outside the deeply running religious identity of her family. She was so inspired that she agreed to have our wedding here without having ever seen the inside of the church. We have since been blessed to have both of our kids baptized here and to fully adopt St. Paul’s as a major part of our lives.

I still sing in the choir and Carrie leads the group of mothers with young children, called TOTS (Time Out to Socialize) and teaches Sunday School. For the last three years, I have also served on the vestry, including serving as Senior Warden this year. We don’t view this service as a chore, but rather as an opportunity to give back to a community that has given us so much. Our family is not exceptional in this way. The people of St. Paul’s have worked together for 150 years to form a family that serves and inspires the world in the name of Jesus Christ. We have seen its effect in our lives and the lives of other in Indianapolis and the world. The vibrancy of our family – the St. Paul’s family – serves to bring us together as a community and together, we inspire others. With God’s blessing, we will continue this work for 150 more years and beyond. Helen C. Blackburn I have been a long-time Episcopalian. I grew up, was baptized, confirmed and married at Christ Episcopal Church in Dayton, Ohio. When we were transferred to Indianapolis in 1960, we visited several Episcopal congregations before we selected St. Paul’s as our home church. The deciding factor was that many of my daughters’ school friends attended St. Paul’s. For them it became a friendly place, as they had so many friends in the church. (I have 5 daughters.) For many years, I volunteered and assisted where needed. I en- joyed the women’s fellowship. For me the early morning service is my favorite, as it is similar to the services of my youth. I find the service comforting as the quietness of the services allows me to reflect and meditate. The congregation at early service is small, so we get to know each other. It is so welcoming to be greeted by my church friends who are so pleased to see me. I feel the group is welcoming to visitors and new folks.

Susanne Bowen I walked into St. Paul’s my first Sunday on a beautiful spring morning over a year ago and was immediately struck by the beautiful organ music and the sunlight filtering in through the stained glass. Initially, I was drawn to St. Paul’s through its online messaging, “Who we Are”, and its stated Mission and Purpose, describing the church as a welcoming and diverse community. As music is a central element in my worship – as for most – St. Paul’s music was an immediate draw. Lastly, and importantly, I was drawn to the diverse biographies of the clergy. I was welcomed during my first visit by many parishioners and clergy. Within five days I received a thank you note from the Rector with a gift card to a local coffee house inviting me to join him during his “cof- fee hours” to learn more about St. Paul’s.

The summer schedule social gathering presented abundant opportunities to meet parishioners. I was wel- comed and invited to join a variety of fellowship groups. Through these, I’ve developed rich friendships and have deepened my knowledge of the Episcopal Church. During the September – May time period, the Adult Forum has been a meaningful gathering for spiritual enrichment and community. Participating in social out- reach opportunities as well as children’s education has strengthened and fostered my sense of community.

I enjoy the differences in style that each clergy brings in the delivery of his or her sermon, and find the ser- mons to be relevant, thought provoking and motivating. When I walk into St. Paul’s on a Sunday morning I feel at peace. I exchange smiles and hellos with familiar faces while catching up with others. My heart sings.

Judith Bowes Sixty-five years ago I was married at St. Paul’s while my church, Trinity, was being rebuilt. The wedding was the day after Christmas, and winter weather conditions were the worst! How nice to return to St. Paul’s, my daughter Kate Appel’s church, after many years of living on beautiful Hilton Head Island. Coming back was made easier by all that I have found at St. Paul’s. Here we have a delightful minister and staff, and one of the most outstanding choirs in the whole country! Congratulations to St. Paul’s on its 150th birthday!

the voices of st. paul’s - 7 - Nancy Brown We had been going to another Episcopal church and kept hearing how St. Paul’s Church was so good and met many needs. We were very pleased with our first visit, and never ever thought about leaving. Even though the church was large with many members, we always felt very comfortable. The members were so hospitable, the priests so welcoming, the music was wonderful, and the church was lovely. We had found our home; St. Paul’s met all our needs.

When Jack died I didn’t think I could go on, but the church and the members were wonderful. I felt so much love, concern, help and support from the church and the members. It gave me the courage to continue on. Some days are easier than others, but so often when I’m really down, a church member will give me a smile, a kind word, a word of support, etc. St. Paul’s and its people have been my salvation. Thank you, thank you!

Liam Broz (age 2 ½) What I like about St. Paul’s: Communion, Friends, Sunday School.

Melissa Broz St. Paul’s beautiful architecture always captured my attention while growing up in Indy. When Greg and I moved back to Indy from South Bend in 2009, we wanted to find a church community for Aidan to grow up in. With Greg’s Catholicism background and my non-denominational background, we were looking for a church home that would make us both comfortable. I remembered St. Paul’s beauty and we decided to give it a try. We felt so welcome and comfortable; we knew we had found our church home. As Aidan has gotten older, our attendance has become weekly. Our boys will tell you they love church, and communion and Sunday School are their favorite parts. I have found a wonderful community of women to be a part of and I can’t wait to see how it grows in the future. After six years at St. Paul’s, we can’t imagine being anywhere else.

Theo Childs (age 2) What I like about St. Paul’s: Play, Bennett, Pray.

Ted and Pam Coates Pam and I were married at St. Paul’s in 1974. We’ve been through the inevitable ups and downs life brings. As the result, we continue to learn patience and loving acceptance in the tough times, and joy and thankfulness in the good times. St. Paul’s is a Life Coach for anyone who wants one.

Melanie Costello Sokhey 1 Corinthians 12:27-28: “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues.”

Eleven years ago I made the “fateful” decision to visit St. Paul’s. I was “church shopping” after a move to Indiana and a rough couple of years. My father had died in 2004 after my caring for him through many years of disability, my brother-in-law was dying from cancer, and we had finally sold our Ohio house. Well, I thought, it’s time to find a church. I need spiritual support. Time to be part of a faith community again. Should I give the Episco- pal Church another chance? Disillusionment with church politics had been driving me away. Should I try a Quaker meeting? Worship in the silence always had an appeal for me and Quakerism has deep roots here. Was it time to look outside my cradle faith?

So I drew up a plan. I would explore some other paths, trying some new place each week. I drove by several churches to get a feel for their locations and surroundings, and decided to begin with the Meridian Street Episcopal churches. Went to one, it was nice—a definite maybe. Went to the second on my list, St. Paul’s. And I never got to the third (or to the Quaker meeting!).

My deepest gratitude to all who have welcomed me, supported me, prayed with me and loved me through the past decade – to my choir family, my EFM family, the clergy who attended my surgeries, those who served on the Vestry and committees with me, the fellow worshippers who smile at me on Sunday morn- ing. Bless you all! Every experience and interaction has tested and deepened my faith, fostered my growth, forged new relationships, changed my life. I am continually renewed and challenged to discover and use my gifts for the growth of the body of Christ, and I thank God for each of you and your part in my life.

Acts 2:42-43: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” Let us go on, my friends, as God permits. Happy 150th Anniversary, St. Paul’s, and peace be with us all!

Alan Davis In order to tell what drew me to St. Paul’s, I should begin with my journey to the Episcopal Church. It began in 2005, although I think the path was being laid long before that. As is the case with about 75% of Episcopa- lians, I converted from another tradition. I grew up in a small, architecturally plain Presbyterian church which had no youth ministry. On Sunday, there were frequently more people in the choir than there were in the congregation. To say I was not spiritually fulfilled by the services in that church is an understatement.

My journey to The Episcopal Church took me through the Roman Catholic Church, to which I was drawn by the beauty of the Mass. I was especisally drawn by the sight of the stained glass windows, the beautifully decorated altars, the candles, and the colorful vestments of the clergy and choir members. I loved the incense and the reverent formal- ity of the Mass. The low-church Presbyterian services which I was used to attending had little if any of these attributes.

Over the 17 years that I was a Roman Catholic, I gradu- ally grew disillusioned with that church for a number of reasons, and began to consider The Episcopal Church (TEC). The two things that really convinced me that my spiritual home is in TEC were some close friends who are Episcopalians, and my singing Anglican choral music. In April 2007, I was confirmed as an Episcopalian and into St. Paul’s, and I have not regretted it for a minute.

I was drawn to St. Paul’s by its music ministry. But I also think of the late Robin Williams’ well-known “Top 10 Reasons to be an Episcopalian.” I believe that all of those reasons are valid statements about our parish!

the voices of st. paul’s - 9 - Pam Douglas It’s hard to believe that as I write this, I have been a member of St. Paul’s for 22 years; it sometimes feels like just a heartbeat ago, other times like I have always been here. I had relocated to Indiana from the East Coast, and came to St. Paul’s because of the choir, but have stayed for so many more reasons. The community that is St. Paul’s transcends categorization – it extends far beyond the walls and is priceless. The friendships and relationships that have been so generously shared with me have seen me through good and bad times, and truly allow me glimpses of God’s glory in each and every interaction. My faith has increased beyond measure, and continues to grow with each opportunity that is offered. I have seen friends married, buried and baptized – each one adding to the tapestry that weaves us all together. I like to think that each soul and spirit that we encounter take a small part of St. Paul’s with them, through us. The strength I derive from the liturgy, the people and the community empower me to be so much more. Membership at St. Paul’s is so much more than that sense of belonging – it is my heart and my home.

Annabel Droste (age 6) What I like about St. Paul’s: How butfll you seing and Suday Scooh and the story’s that you say.

Matt and Karen Ellis As former Catholics who had become frustrated and disillusioned with that faith, we had not been engaged in a formal church for some years. When Matt had the opportunity to apply for a job with the Episcopal Church, we decided to attend a service at St. Paul’s and learn more. We were warmly welcomed and it was surprising (and gratifying) for us to see female clergy. The liturgy felt very familiar to us, yet there was an open acceptance unlike anything we had experienced before. We immediately felt comfortable. It was clear right away that we were home.

There have been many changes in our own lives and in the life of St. Paul’s over the years. However, one con- stant remains: a community deeply committed to sharing the love of Christ with kindness and generosity. The building is beautiful and the music is inspiring, but the reason we remain active at St. Paul’s is the incredible community that has been developed here. We know that people care about us here, and we try to be sure others know we care about them also. This is our spiritual home.

Colleen Fanning The diversity of the St. Paul’s community drew me in. I’ve happily stayed because of the spirit of tolerance, the encouragement of questioning, and the open dialogue surrounding all issues in our community. This truly is a place where all are welcome and individuality is celebrated.

David Furuness After serving an “intimate” size congregations for 36 years, I retired on June 15, 2008. I decided I would seek a congregation that had a magnificent building and a marvelous choir. After buying a house in Broad Ripple, I discovered a friend and former colleague, Bill Novak, was attending St. Paul’s. It fit what I sought in a church. But I found so much more! I found a home that I did not know I needed. I was raised in the Lutheran tradition and was ordained into their ministry. What I have found at St. Paul’s is an open door and open communion rail – all are welcome without judgment. I have met marvelous people of faith and dedication. I have found excite- ment about what St. Paul’s is doing both here and abroad. I have heard wonderful, uplifting sermons from all the clergy Sunday after Sunday. Recently I have found a commitment to pastoral ministry I needed for health issues that has enfolded me in their care and the mercy of Our Lord Jesus.

I came for a building and choir and found exactly what God knew I needed. Isabella Gould (age 12) What I like about St. Paul’s is how much the people here care about each other and how beautiful the choir including me sounds.

Rachel Genovese Hildebrandt We realize that the participation at St. Paul’s is spiritually uplifting and it gives strength during the workweek to focus on the good things and blessings.

We moved to Indianapolis in the summer of 1986 with two children and I found St. Paul’s in the newspaper, looking for a midweek Eucharist service. We had no babysitter, so our two children went with me to the mid- week service. I met Karen Moore, Becky Morrison, Nancy Dryborough and others at the Wednesday eve- ning service. I was invited to participate in the Order of St. Luke the Physician, which Tom Stoll was part of. I also attended the Sunday service. I asked Tom if I could teach Sunday School; I began with the 5th grade class. Tom Stoll discussed having young children receive communion on Sunday. Then Mrs. Stoll asked me if I wanted to be a Lay Eucharistic Minister, and I agreed. Jean Denton oversaw the lay pastoral meetings. Be- fore I went to St. Paul’s, I was a member of St. Stephens in Terre Haute, where Fr. Rickards was the Rector. Weeks before we moved to Indianapolis – be it the work of God – I had a time of deep experience and I felt called to truly be a part of the Lord, Jesus Christ, and a church with the right spirit. I am very involved and participate in many ministries and activities – lay Eucharistic minister, intercessor, church school.

Being part of St. Paul’s Episcopal continues. The choir and music adds to this, and serving at the altar and visiting those unable to drive are both spiritually uplifting. I thank St. Paul’s that they have these ministries. It is a blessing helping many citizens who need a voice and are being supported (Craine House, prison ministry, Habi- tat, etc.). Also, there are many programs offered to us from which we can learn and in which we can participate.

To end, I reflect on Paul because I cannot find the right words. It is important to note that Paul is not praying that God would give us this mighty power, but rather that the eyes of our hearts would be enlightened to know that this power has already displayed in us if we believe in Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1-6) When we were dead in our sins, God raised us up and seated us with Christ in the heavenly places; his point here is that the same power that raised Christ from the dead ... Paul wants us to know that if we have believed in Christ, it did not come from human will power or reasoning. No, it came from God’s mighty power, the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead.” I can state that we ever experience this we know there is a God. (Ephesians 119-23)

Joanna Giesek Five years ago in August 2011 I moved to Indianapolis to be closer to my daughter and her family, who had pointed out St. Paul’s in a drive through the neighborhood after I found my home nearby. The moment I stepped in the door, I was greeted by Dona Walser and then by the Rev. Jean Denton, both of whom made me feel welcome. It was also the first Sunday for our new Rector, John Denson. There was a summer choir the voices of st. paul’s - 1 1 - that year, and I soaked up the sacred words and music in the beautiful sanctuary. Following the service, I met John Denson, and then Jean Denton asked for my phone number. She called me the next day and invited me to lunch on Tuesday to get acquainted, then on Thursday I received a call from Frank Boles to introduce himself, welcome me, and invite me to join the Music Committee. I felt fully embraced and spiritually uplifted. I still hold that feeling about St. Paul’s, where I have met lifelong friends whom I cherish deeply. My soul is filled each week worshiping with my friends and attending the many classes and events. St. aul’sP Choir and Choral Scholar program has deep meaning to me, and I will continue to be involved in supporting their con- certs and activities. The Lord has truly blessed my spiritual home, St. Paul’s.

The Rev. Sarah Ginolfi There was a time in my seminary career where I noticed my innate drive to be creative butting heads with the traditions of the Episcopal Church. For a time, even, I thought my gifts might be best utilized if I pursued an MFA in creative nonfiction or playwriting rather than becoming a priest. I certainly didn’t see myself working in a parish! I thought of becoming a school chaplain, a therapist, or even a military chaplain – anything but the parish (where I’ve seen so many creatives meet their demise). However, in my senior year of seminary, some mentors chal- lenged me to broaden my somewhat narrow definition of a “parish.” During a round of interviews, I learned about the hopes and dreams brewing at St. Paul’s, Indianapolis. I experienced one of those “Holy Spirit A-ha!” moments in my first conversation with John Denson and muttered a tentative “yes” when asked to venture out for a visit.

And then? I saw God creatively at work in the life of St. Paul’s, and therein could finally envision what it might look like for me to wear a collar around my neck in God’s Church. I am ever thankful for the chance to be formed as a priest in a community that honors the past, present, and the future of God’s Church and our life together in Jesus.

Sue Hale St. Paul’s means “family” to me. We moved here with our children in 1972 and became members of St. Paul’s, where we formed lasting friendships. We were involved with the youth group, choir and vestry; all our children were confirmed here and one was baptized. After an absence of some years, I returned to my church home, and my sense of “family” has evolved in a most meaningful way. I give grateful thanks.

Rachel W. Haley [A Church for Strangers] The Nicene Creed does not flow from their lips as does pure water on a budding spring Baptismal morning. Communion. The Lord’s Prayer. The Prayers of the People. The Book of Common Prayer is not so common, to them.

Holy Eucharist is a foreign word, unknown to their tongue and spirit. Hard to spell. Hard to pronounce. Harder to comprehend. Harder yet to explain to them.

Yet, we are a church for them.

Our church is a church beyond our stone walls. Beyond stationary altars, Alleluia refrains, and rows of scarlet covered pews.

We are a church of mercy. We eat of the body of Christ and drink from the cup of salvation as one. We pray on bending knee for forgiveness; sins forgotten and souls renewed. We give praise for blessings from Our Father seated above; rooted in inclusion for His Kingdom. We read the Gospels – follow the Apostles in their devoted ways. Rich in scripture. Poor in heart.

Our tall, wooden red doors are a humbly placed invitation; come, stay, belong.

We are a church for strangers.

We welcome all. We welcome you. Come, be a stranger with us.

Duke and Tammy Kennedy Hardy St. Paul’s has been such an important part of my life for the past 55+ years. As a young family in 1960, my parents, Bette and Lee Kennedy, brought my four siblings and me to worship at St. Paul’s. They immediately became active members, with Dad participating in the all-male Vestry, and mom as an active member of ECW and Altar Guild for many years. They immediately enlisted us in the choir with Mr. Tinker, as well as acolytes and in Sunday School. I am so thankful to them for the example they gave to us of devotion to God and their church.

I have many fond childhood memories of attending Sunday School in the old church house that in the early 1960s was sold, actually put on wheels, and moved down the street to become someone’s home. For many years, kinder- garten through fifth grade attended church with their Sunday School classmates and teacher in the chapel of the education building that replaced that old church house!

As is true today, St. Paul’s provided many activities and ministries for teenagers that helped shape and form my young Christian life. Through choir, Sunday School, confirmation, Summer Bible School, Youth Group, Delta Guild and teaching Sunday School and Bible School in high school, I learned invaluable life skills and formed a Godly community that I will always treasure.

Both of my sisters and I were married at St. Paul’s. I married my true love, Duke, in August 1979, with Father Bob Browne officiating; it was the first wedding Frank Boles played. So a new chapter began for us as a young married couple at St. Paul’s. All three of our sons were baptized at St. Paul’s in the 1980s, and grew up participating in Sun- day School and as acolytes. St. Anne’s Guild and ECW were a huge part of my church life when the kids were young. The other young mothers provided each other emotional and spiritual support and friendship while we enjoyed raising money for the church and Sunday School through rummage sales, Saint Nick’s Shop, “Your Heart’s Desire” Auctions, and the annual Spring Bridge Luncheons. Today, I have traded those ministries for Altar Guild and the Hospitality Committee. I cherish the time I spend with good friends preparing the church for worship and special occasions.

Duke and I continue to treasure our worship life, our clergy and our friends at St. Paul’s. I feel so blessed to have been part of this church community! the voices of st. paul’s - 13 - Louise Hass While I was studying in England, I visited York Cathedral. I returned home intending to become Episcopalian. However, I did not drive nor did I live near such a church, despite living in four states and several communi- ties. Time passed. On Christmas Eve of 1997, I was watching the King’s College Choir from Cambridge University in the U.K. when I heard, “Nothing prevents you from becoming Episcopalian now; go.” At once, I went to the telephone book for a list of churches. I came to St. Paul’s on the first Sunday of 1998 and I never left. I stay because God wishes me to do so.

John C. Hoard [Where Would I Be Without My Church?] My life as a Christian has been greatly impacted by my experiences at St. Paul’s. Over the years, my love of God and my relationship with Jesus has grown in ways that I can hardly understand much less describe. I know I am not the person I was in 1985 when Nancy and I first entered St. Paul’s. We moved from Fort Wayne in 1984, and were searching for a church that could be a spiritual home to our family. Our first child, John David was born in 1985. At that time, I was a young lawyer trying to start a practice in Indianapolis and Nancy worked at USA Funds. We shared the common burdens and joys of home and profession while John David, then Jenny, our daughter and later Jason, our son were exposed to the teachings of the Bible through Godly Play in Sunday school, then later with Father Robin as he led youth ministry for many years.

In the beginning, my callings for service within the church were in keeping with my children’s needs. I taught Sun- day school, chaperoned, ushered, participated in the Stewardship campaigns and tried to be available to help as I could along the way. However, I offered a strong back and a spiritually weak mind, I’m afraid. But, it was through my routine attendance at Sunday services that I came to understand the concept of God’s Grace and his love for me and all humanity. I believed before this time that God’s love was conditioned on my conduct and response. I believed that I could not truly have the love of God in my heart because I could not live like a Saint. My imperfec- tions thereby prevented my receipt of God’s Love. I was unworthy. But as time passed, things changed.

I recall distinctly two times when I knew the Holy Spirit moved through me and I bathed in His love. The first time was at the Great Banquet, which I experienced because I was invited to attend by Brian Henderson, a fellow parishioner. The buildup to the moment of this spiritual awakening is THE PUPOSE of attending Great Banquet where you are captured and confronted by the outpouring of honesty and truth and love. I had never felt such love. Agape. The second distinct awakening rushed over me one Sunday as the St. Paul’s choir sang Holy, Holy, Holy. The words are always the same, but at this time in our services we sang a very, very sweet and melodic tune. As the words poured out with the beautiful tune, the harmonies of the youth in the choir soared above the congregation and filled me with such joy and delight, tears sprang to my eyes and I my soul lifted slightly apart from my body, pulling me up with it. It felt for a moment like Heaven, enchant- ing and lovely, tender and personal. In this way, God touched me through my church.

These “touchings” were profound to me. Soon I was asked to serve on the Vestry and almost immedi- ately the issues of the LGBT community were on our agenda. I was led through this time of growth in our church by two wise and courageous souls, the Rev. Jim Leehan and Bishop Cate Waynick. I was confused and scared by the societal changes that were being lived out in our church. For a while, “The Blessing” placed St. Paul’s at the fore front of this controversy in the Indianapolis community. I tried to keep my mouth shut and heart open. Jim and Cate talked to me personally and in their sermons. I heard their words of love and acceptance, just as Jesus taught. His word is Love, not rules nor judgments, nor division, nor segregation. His world is open and caring, within and without. Through these lessons, teachings and prayers, my heart opened. I hope I was transformed to a better, more loving person. If so, I was so molded within the halls of my church, St. Paul’s. I don’t know where I would be without St. Paul’s, but because of it I can celebrate a peace of heart and mind through Grace and love that otherwise would not exist for me.

Margaret Hotopp (age 8) What I like about St. Paul’s: I like my friends here.

Sandy Hudson After realizing in 1993 that the Methodist Church I’d attended for eight years wasn’t working for me, and that several Madeleine L’Engle writers’ workshops and retreats I’d attended during those years were working on me, I started attending St. Paul’s, where I found my church home and family, as well as several ministries. In short, it’s simply been easier for God and me to find each other because of St. aul’s.P

Eleanor Ising (age 8) What I like about St. Paul’s: Is that they help you when you’re sad. When my principal died in a bus crash, the church let me talk to Barb to make me feel better. And it did!!!

Michael and Judi Jack [Celebrating our Community] When Judi and I moved from Columbus, IN to Madison, WI, St. Paul’s in Columbus was undergoing a renovation. We visited several parishes in Madison and settled at St. Andrew’s, which was undergoing a renovation. After coming back to Indiana, we began visiting several parishes and when we came to St. Paul’s, it was just finishing a renovation and was meeting in the Parish Hall. We looked at each other and said, “This must be the place.” Actually, it was more the welcome we received, the openness to everyone, and a feeling that the Holy Spirit was present for us that really led to us becoming members here.

Finding out that I was a retired financial guy, Rich Winters added me to the Finance Committee within my first two months as a member. Doing some analysis of the effect of the financial meltdown, I could see that the St. Paul’s endowment draw was going to decline by $800,000 over the next few years. Rich then asked me to review the staff and make recommendations for reductions because, unfortunately in my prior business life, I had been through a number of workforce reductions and knew how to do it. It was painful, but necessary along with some other painful reductions, to help proactively position St. Paul’s for the future. I suppose you can say in some way the outcome was a blessing, but it was not a fun beginning to my time here at St. Paul’s. I subse- quently had the privilege of being the Treasurer of St. Paul’s for five years, and came to truly appreciate the talent and dedication of the clergy and staff. The controller, Lisa White, made my work very easy.

We really appreciate the openness St. Paul’s offers to all – regardless of race, economics or sexual orientation. Reflecting back on our time at St. Andrew’s, we lost a number of members who disagreed with the acceptance of a gay Bishop. Some of those who ultimately left made cutting, hurtful comments to the gay members of our parish before they left, hurtful enough that the gay members left also. We went through a healing process aided by terrific insights into homosexuality from biology and sociology professors who were members. Over time, the gay members who left returned and were welcomed back openly, warmly and with love. It was a powerful lesson that Christ welcomes all, and we love St. Paul’s for being a “diverse, generous and faithful community.” the voices of st. paul’s - 15 - Gerry Janzen [Three Inter-Related Blessings in My Life at St. Paul’s] (1) It is a Sunday morning in Advent, 2006. We are worshiping in the chapel of the Education Building be- cause the sanctuary across the street is being renovated. I ask Jean Kneessy, sitting next to me, how her biopsy turned out. She leans over, puts her hand on my arm, and says that this will be her last Advent; she doesn’t want to undergo another round of cancer treatment such as she endured several years ago. In a few weeks I will undergo surgery for my own rare, aggressive cancer that typically projects a dim prognosis; and that surgery will be followed, in the next year, by four months of the oncologist’s “harshest, most toxic” chemotherapy and then 45 sessions of radiation. Through all this time it is Jean who, outside of my own family members, is most supportive in her knack for five-minute visits or phone calls. And she does live to observe Advent of 2007, and then she begins rapidly to fail. Near the end, early in 2008, I visit her and Davy at home, and her last words to me are, “I’ve had a good life.” Davy tells me at the door that she wants me to give the homily at her service. I prepare a homily on the text “We have this treasure in earthen vessels” then discover that the family has chosen that passage for a Lectionary reading. Yes; earthen vessels, all of us; but as Jean’s quietly courageous year has only underscored and exemplified, treasure nevertheless.

(2) For Lent 2007 St. Paul’s announces a Jerusalem Walk. Those signing up for a pilgrimage to Jerusalem keep a log of their daily walk as a Lenten meditative exercise, and our totals will be laid end to end in the combined attempt to complete the pilgrimage in time for a Jerusalem Easter. We make it with miles to spare, and I am grateful that, despite my chemo-induced weakness, I am able to contribute my few miles. What a blessing, to walk each day in the companionship of others who encourage me by walking alongside me while walking along their own chosen trails.

(3) Back in the chapel in Advent 2006. For some reason I find myself recalling an essay by John Ciardi in a literary periodical, decades ago, where he reported once seeing a roadside sign that offered directions to “The World’s Largest Crucifix.” Ciardi’s point, in critique of that sign, was that the physical size of a symbol is of no consequence; it is what the sign signifies that is an index of its ealr size. I contemplate the small, flat wafer that I will shortly receive and consume, and secretly long for the three-dimensional piece of actual bread that was used during my seminary days back in Saskatchewan a half century earlier. Then, as I continue to muse on Ciardi’s words, I find the small, thin wafer expanding, in my thought—no, in fact!—to embrace all contemporary Christians at that moment, and then back in time to embrace all the generations of Eucharistic participants since the Last Supper, and forward through time until Creation’s end. Suddenly, “like shining from shook foil” (Gerard Manley Hopkins), I am overwhelmed by the size of the reality symbolized in this wafer. In that moment I am connected livingly with all people, all things, in all places at all times.

Jean Kneessy; my fellow Jerusalem pilgrims; all people, indeed all creation, everywhere and always. A height and length and breadth and depth of blessing as local as the person next to me, and as large as God’s creation.

Chris and Laura Johns I grew up in a small, southern town, in a parish that exhibited these traits – it was hospitable, a close-knit commu- nity among a diverse population. Members were not only socially active at church, but I would encounter them in the community as well – as my teachers, owners of stores I would visit, family doctors, and theater participants. Seeing this level of community and engagement by parish members was the foundation of my experience.

When I came to St. Paul’s, I began to see a similar sense of community. From the various forms of outreach that take place at St. Paul’s, it was easy to see how the church and parish members were involved locally and globally. St. Paul’s has grown into its sense of hospitality. While many of the people we came to know as friends were very welcoming, there was a sense among other visitors that the parish as a whole was not as welcoming. Through the late 1990s the parish embarked on a journey that ultimately overcame this stigma, and a welcoming sense of hos- pitality blossomed, and continues to this day. In some sense, the liturgy can be found in other parishes. However, I came to St. Paul’s because I was reminded of home, and stayed because of the friends we’ve made. Madison Johns To me, St. Paul’s means family. I’ve attended this church my whole life and I’m glad I was raised in this loving and supportive parish. Members have helped raise me to be the person I am today and I thank them greatly for it. St. Paul’s also means friendship to me as well. I have met some of my best friends, both young and old, here. These friendships are eternal friendships, and I am not sure what I would do without them in my life. I am glad God has blessed me with the parish of St. Paul’s because I love my friends and family so dearly.

Bryan Johnson [A Blessing at a Needed Time] I have been coming to St. Paul’s for 16 years, after attending my natal Episcopal church for 20 years as an adult. It was a small parish and coming to St. Paul’s was a bit overwhelming for an introvert like myself, but I enjoy and take solace from the liturgy and enjoy the only time I sing during the service. I especially enjoy the many and varied styles of sermons from the 10-12 different priests who have served during my time at St. Paul’s. They have all been thought-provoking in different ways and makes one think about what is preached.

The blessing I encountered was when I called St. Paul’s to have my wife put on the prayer list when she was to have cancer surgery on a weekday; I think I called 2-3 days ahead of her surgery. I didn’t request a visit nor do I remember giving any details, but Rev. Jean Denton showed up at the hospital before my wife’s surgery and sat with us. Then before they took Jan back to surgery, we had alone time with the three of us and we prayed together and then recited the Lord’s Prayer together. This simple act exerted a profoundly peaceful calming influence over me and my wife as well.

Sometime after that, Jean asked me to consider Lay Eucharistic Visitor training, which is something I wouldn’t normally be comfortable doing. Now my wife and I share in this ministry, and it is a pleasure to take the Eucharist from St. Paul’s and share it with fellow parishioners who can’t attend St. Paul’s in person.

Jan Johnson I began attending St. Paul’s in 2000. I came at a time of transition for St. Paul’s and for myself. I found a church that was welcoming, and had a place for me in this big place. I started out in Journey, a program for new members. I then became involved in the Paths Crossing ministry, and traveled with members to Minnesota. Years later I became involved in Centering Prayer, and met with a group of wonderful parishioners, and people from other places. Centering Prayer has enriched my experience at St. Paul’s. The strong clergy here have been a blessing always. In 2006 I was going through a serious health issue along with several losses in my family. I felt supported with the pastoral care that was there for me. It is always cool to see how members at St. Paul’s come together to help families with special needs.

I came to St. Paul’s because it was close to my home, and I was looking for something more in my spiritual like. One of the opportunities I had here was EFM. It was in this course, that I began to understand that theology is not just for theologians! I have my theology, and it is just fine. We probably have the best team of clergy a church could have. This is a blessing for all who come to St. Paul’s, and is a good reason to stay. We are encouraged to reach out and welcome all. St. Paul’s means welcome.

Bill Johnston Susan and I have been married for 34 years and have been Episcopalians together for 33. Our life together has been a literal journey from one state to the next: to Virginia (for six years), Kentucky (for 19), Virginia (for four more) and Indiana five years ago. The church has been vitally important at each stop – St. Paul’s Charlottesville; Trinity Danville; St. James the Less Ashland; and St. Paul’s Indianapolis. They each formed community, gave an oasis of respite and peace, provided spiritual development and thoughtful growth in

the voices of st. paul’s - 17 - values and talents, and set an anchor of support. When we knew we were moving to Indianapolis, Susan and I of course looked at churches online. “Hey, check this out – St. Paul’s. Listen to their music! Isn’t that the place we should try first?” On my first Sunday in Indiana (Susan and our daughter Katie stayed a few more weeks in Virginia), I was especially welcomed by choir members, Brad Messamore, thoughtful clergy, and smiling parishioners. The service also happened to be the one at which the church distributed flyers to announce the Densons were coming. We timed that right! What a special place. As Brad once wrote, “Love at its root is joy – joy for the other, joy at the magnificent, infinite God...It is joy that saves us, only joy.” I will celebrate always our parish family and this joyous love we share together at St. Paul’s.

Susan Johnston Each week when I go to the communion rail I feel blessed that I can still participate in the Eucharist with members of the parish. In sharing communion with you, I am reminded that God loves me and that I have support of the whole congregation. Thank you.

Marie E. Kingdon [St. Paul’s Memories] My family moved to Indianapolis in August 1945. I think my mother selected the lot for our new home on River- view Drive because she knew St. Paul’s would be built two blocks away. She was a cradle Episcopalian and I am too. We attended church at the American Legion Hall in Broad Ripple. I remember our Sunday School classes seemed very noisy. During construction of St. Paul’s, my younger brother John and I would monitor the progress of the building. We were very respectful. We knew this was going to be OUR church. And it surely was!

My mother taught Sunday School; I immediately signed up for the Junior Choir (alto), directed by Henrietta Miller, and joined the Delta Guild, a service organization for teen girls; and John was an acolyte. In high school, he loved being Crucifer. Both John and I were very honored to receive the Outstanding Senior Boy Award and Outstanding Senior Girl Award when we were graduating from high school (he in 1958, me in 1955). We loved the Vruwink family and kept in touch with them after they moved to Tulsa, OK and later Bellevue, WA. In the early 1990s, my older son and I visited the Vruwinks in Bellevue. Ask me about the parrot at the dinner table (Emma Vruwink loved ALL animals!), and the squirt gun, and the conversation….

I lived in Michigan for 30 years and when I moved back to Indianapolis, I returned to St. Paul’s. But it wasn’t a “good match” at the time. A few years later, I returned to St. Paul’s – just in time for Rev. Winters to leave. But I have stayed.

Davy Kneessy St. Paul’s is our spiritual terminus! During 30 years on the move with the Army, although we were always active in our local parishes, in the end we were “transient.” In 1981, we landed at St. Paul’s. It turned out that Jean had a unique “Texas” connection with Rev. Bob Browne and Dorothy. We had found a “home” and moved in! Jean washed and ironed the Fair Linen for the rest of her days. I have concentrated on lectoring as my mission. Canon Fred Williams and Ruth became dear friends. He married our daughter Kathryn and her Arthur, and baptized all three of their children. He also baptized our first daughter Caroline’s child. Fred and Ruth were able to join us on two educational cruises that they were anxious to take!

My 35 blessed years at St. Paul’s are a minor fraction of the parish’s life span but a major piece of my jour- ney. My dear mother’s and my beloved Jean’s ashes dwell within the St. Paul’s columbarium, and someday I will join them there. A spiritual terminus indeed!

Linda Kops Considering I hadn’t been to church regularly for more than 20 years until I began attending St. Paul’s, I’d say that says a lot about St. Paul’s in its entirety. Of course in years past, I’d attend on Father’s Day, Mother’s Day and holidays. However, for me to attend church on a regular basis, it has to capture my heart, as well as my spirit. St. Paul’s does just that. While no church is perfect this side of heaven, St. Paul’s sure does come close! What I like best is the genuine sense of community that can be felt throughout. I feel spiritually uplifted on so many levels at St. Paul’s; it offers an atmosphere of traditional beauty. Pastor Denson is a genuine, loving, spiritual gift from God. And lastly, the outstanding music program never, ever disappoints. St. Paul’s is truly a special place and a special church to be a part of. I am grateful and humbled to worship at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. May God continue to shine his everlasting love on St. Paul’s forever and for always!

Larry and Joyce Krauser A simple invitation in 1978 from a college friend to come sing in the choir because it needed more singers who could read music was what brought us to St. Paul’s. Joyce grew up in a downtown United Method- ist church, experiencing not only the formal Sunday morning worship services with a classical music choir and words straight out of the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer, but also the youth group’s casual and experimental versions of worship. After moving to Indianapolis, she occasionally was invited to play violin at a nearby Methodist church, but the members only thanked her for playing and didn’t invite her to become involved in the church in other ministries.

1978 was Larry’s reintroduction to St. Paul’s; his first encounter a nearly decade earlier was not an encour- aging experience. He grew up in the high Anglo-Catholic tradition with all the bells and smells with Eucharist every Sunday; however, St. Paul’s in 1969 was a low “Morning Prayer” community. His second experience of St. Paul’s in 1978 was significantly different. What changed? By then many of the tenants of Vatican II had been implemented in the Episcopal Church. This meant Eucharist every week, the empowerment of the laity, and opening Eucharist up to all baptized Christians regardless of age or membership. It was a whole new world. Larry liked the changes, but there was still something spiritually missing. In 1980 Larry shared this emptiness with Mary Campbell, his long-time family friend, who also happened to be one of the first wave of women priests. “The liturgy is familiar and choir is decent but I’m missing a spiritual depth and excitement.”

For Joyce, attending St. Paul’s was like the next step in spiritual maturity—a step away from the feel-good, casual youth worship and a deepening of the formal worship experience. But Joyce also was missing the deeper elements of a faith community, despite having become involved as one of the youth leaders at St. Paul’s. She also wanted to learn more about Episcopal rituals.

Mary Campbell encouraged us to attend a Cursillo weekend to see another aspect of the Anglican Church. Wow! It changed our life! We found a community in the Episcopal Church with a deep spirituality. The challenge became how not to come across as crazies in a still somewhat conservative congregation. But the benefits were a deeper faith and a loving community of leaders from other parishes throughout the Diocese, as well as a deeper relationship with each other. Luckily our relatively new rector Bob Brown had also attended Cursillo and appreciated its contribution to the people and the church. He encouraged us to be- come even more involved at St. Paul’s. In 1982 we were married at St. Paul’s by Bob Brown, with Mary

the voices of st. paul’s - 19 - celebrating the Eucharist, Frank Boles playing organ, and a Brethren minister who had married Joyce’s parents reading the lessons. Most of our Cursillo community was present, further enriching the worship experience.

Our daughter Emily was born two years later; she was baptized and confirmed at St. aul’sP and grew up in the choir, learning the spirituality of not only worship and community but also the meaning and history of the texts she was singing. The Episcopal Church gave us a regular rhythm of life, a knowledge of God’s power and reality above and beyond ourselves, and a common language for speaking of the important things in life: birth, death, growth, grief, trials and joy.

The St. Paul’s community has felt like an extended family. We love to work and have fun together. As it turns out, there are many opportunities to do that. St. Paul’s enables us to share Christ’s love in the community in many ways: from singing in the choir to being a verger, from teaching the children to building a Habitat house, from using the children’s library to running a music camp for inner city youth, St. Paul’s continues to enable us to be Christ’s presence in the world. Although St. Paul’s has gone through many changes, trials, and rectors, the glue and strength has always been the loving community that values multi-layered worship; incorporates prayer, Eucharist, community and the arts; and has high ideals and truly cares for others.

David Kroll I came to St. Paul’s looking for a Christian community where I could blend in and hide. In the years prior to returning to the Midwest, my naiveté about the Church had been shattered and stripped away. I had been raised to believe that the Church was a safe place where everyone was welcomed. We were bonded by a common mission focused on Jesus and no matter what, we were in this mission together. There was no secret handshake be a part of the community. There was no memorized mantra or secret code.

“Coming out” is a difficult process. For me the process involved unlearning all the stereotypes I had been taught. The very place I thought I should be safe and able to feel welcomed suddenly became a place to fear. Cheap theology and easy answers were dispersed through insensitive parcels of Scripture. I found there were few people willing to walk with me and help me work through what God was saying through those incomplete snippets of Scripture. But the lack of hospitality of the greater Church and their loud cries of “love the sin- ner, hate the sin” were almost too much to bear. I started to understand what a cold and heartless place the Church could be to those who are different. No matter what the Church professed, its actions loudly pro- claimed being different was not “holy” and there were a set of standards one had to learn and uphold in order to be part of the community.

I fell in love with a man. A pastor. He is a man with incredible gifts of pastoral ministry. He is a man with a deep love of the Church and the people within it. Our love felt right. It felt like a gift from God. While that love made Jim and me better people for what we shared with each other and the community at large, the Church would not accept it. Suddenly I saw an ugliness emerge among congregation members who professed to love and accept each other. People who worshipped and ate together were divided and hurtling hateful words at each other. Politics had its tendrils embedded within the Church, and was choking and distracting the Church from doing the work it was called to. I was forced to see the Church wasn’t a utopia, but it was just human. I don’t handle conflict well; all I wanted to do was to go through worship, share the sacrament of communion, and be invisible. I didn’t want to talk about homosexuality. I didn’t want to defend the relation- ship I have with Jim. I wanted to be “normal” like I was before I “came out” and fell in love.

But hurt wasn’t the only thing I was experiencing. I was mad. I was mad at God for making me gay, and for being silent in Scripture and in His Church about His view about homosexuality. I was mad at God for giving my husband an incredible pastoral gift, only to call him into ministry to a Church that dismissed him – not be- cause he was preaching heresy, but because the love between us was different. I was angry that the Church was uncaring and would rather have him go through life alone than to share his life’s journey with someone. I was mad at activists who, while their intentions may have been good, were dismissive when Jim refused to be the new face for the cause of equality. I was also mad at myself for being one of the reasons my husband could no longer do what he loved – being active in parish ministry.

Eventually our journey together led us back to the Midwest, home. When we visited St. Paul’s, Jim and I felt welcomed. At least we didn’t experience the cold shoulder as we had experienced from a Lutheran congregation after they discovered we were in a relationship together. It didn’t seem to matter we were two men who shared a love and life together. If it did, no one voiced their opinion and the congregation treated us with respect. St. Paul’s felt safe and it felt like a place I didn’t need to provide any explanations about who I am and who I love.

Our God is a God of surprises. A God I thought was silent would suddenly speak clearly through the liturgy and through the priest’s sermons. When I would bristle at being pulled into participating within the community, God would give that gentle nudge, and I met some amazing and caring people. When the issue of how the Church viewed human sexuality asserted itself, I feared the scab that was forming over the hurt and anger would be picked away and I would relive what I previously experienced. That didn’t happen. I saw a community could have a difference of opinion, could be open about their disagreements, and could continue to worship and work together. I started to discover my voice, and realized that sharing my opinion could be an ok experience. I saw activism could be done with a tempered, balanced approach.

I still want to be anonymous when I worship. The hurt and anger are still there; perhaps they will always be. But over time the hurt is healing and the anger is weakening. St. Paul’s has been a big part of my journey and has introduced me to some great resources. I have a more realistic view of the Church. St. Paul’s is helping me rediscover what it means to be part of a community. Through my experiences with the people of St. Paul’s, I have been better able to hear where God is calling me. There are some things about that call I am not sure about, but I know St. Paul’s is a community that will help me discover clarity.

Louise Kubat Over the years I have come and gone – to other cities, other churches, other religions – and I find myself right back here at St. Paul’s. While I may not mingle as much as others or as I should, I find strength in the communion and camaraderie of others at church. There is a communication that helps me continue outside of church; it renews my spirit. As the phrase goes, “Worship is over, let the service begin.”

Judith Lordan Howett I was baptized Judith Lordan Howett at St. Paul’s as an infant in 1948 by Fr. Vruwink; I thank God frequently for my parents, Joe and Jane Howett, who were faithful Episcopalians and raised me in the church. Probably my earliest remembrance is attending worship services and Sunday School upstairs in the church building. Children did not worship with their parents then, so we had our own chapel upstairs. When I was elementary school age I was a member of the children’s choir directed by Henrietta Miller. We participated in the 9:00 service with the adults every Sunday. To this day I remain friends with several girls that I met during my time in the choir. Mrs. Miller wore her glasses down on her

the voices of st. paul’s - 21 - nose, and if you misbehaved during the church service she would glare at you over the top of her glasses. During my junior high years I was a member of a group called Delta Girls. We were led by an adult church member and served our church on different occasions. Mostly I remember us wearing little white aprons, serving and bussing tables at large church banquets. During high school I was a member of our youth group and Sunday School class. Our youth group met almost every Sunday, and we were a mixture of several different schools. We went on several retreats to Waycross and sneaked out on the roof of the main house at night (much to the disdain of our adult chaperones).

Frequently during our Sunday School hour we would jump into someone’s car, head to the Huddle Restaurant at 56th and Illinois, and return in time to head home with our parents. We had some great times together and managed to slip in some very meaningful worship services from time to time.

I am most thankful for my connection through St. Paul’s to Waycross, which I started attending at an early age as a camper. In high school I became a summer camp counselor for five summers. As an adult I have been summer camp coordinator for two summers, a member of the board of directors, and eventually the first female president of the Waycross Board of Directors. Currently, I volunteer there whenever possible. Many people young and old say they found God when they were at Waycross. I am among that group. All three of my children were campers and high school camp counselors at Waycross; now my granddaughter carries on the tradition.

Both of my parents passed away three months apart at an early age; it was the St. Paul’s family and Fr. Tom Stoll that supported me during that difficult time. I will always be grateful for the prayers and the care that my family received. I know that many parishioners have felt the support of our church family.

When the decision was made to flip our church and remodel, it was a hard pill for me to swallow. It was my church since infancy and I had a hard time facing the change. During the final church service before construction my friend Beth Jeglum and I lingered with tears in our eyes and took pictures of our blessed church. I am now a willing participant in our church services and I feel that John Denson has been a blessing sent to us, but I hope St. Paul’s will never decide to spend that kind of money without first considering that it be used for outreach. Thank you Lord for the blessing of St. Paul’s as my church home. Amen.

Anne Lowe After visiting several Episcopal churches in Indianapolis, we came as a young family to St. Paul’s in 1969. Expecting Brandon and anxious for Gary to participate in music and church school, we knew we had imme- diately found our niche. St. Paul’s had so much to offer; later we became involved in all the activities that makes St. Paul’s a great place to worship. We were Sunday School teachers, choir parents, acolytes, campers, altar guild members, ushers, vestry members and more. St. Paul’s has always been our guiding force. God has blessed us by allowing us to have one baptism, three weddings and so far one funeral, and to be a part of such a wonderful congregation. I can’t begin to thank all the clergy, friends and staff over the years for being such a welcoming church. We were in the minority during tumultuous times in our nation; “In Christ there is no East or West,” but were blessed to be a part of great St. Paul’s.

Brandon Lowe [Change is Good] I was baptized into the St. Paul’s family in 1970. My parents, Aubrey and Anne Lowe, and my brother, Gary, started attending in 1969, months before I was born. Gary was almost six years old. That was a long time ago, and a lot of things are different. St. Paul’s, though, has not changed.

St. Paul’s has CHANGED. The building has expanded, quite literally. There is a new organ. There are new pews and chairs. There are elevators. There have been new kitchens, new flooring, new carpets, and I could go on. There is a dedicated choir practice facility, born from a renovation over twenty years ago. The long-out-of-use living quarters, an apartment for the Rector above the Sanctuary, has given way to a lounge area near the Music Office. The primary entrance to the Sanctuary was changed from the South end to the North end of the sanctuary building. We have a unified campus. But St. Paul’s has not changed.

St. Paul’s has CHANGED. We are integrated – no separate services, no separate pews, no separate chalice, no separate “facilities.” We are worshiping as one congregation with a thousand faces and names. We are, again quite literally, an anchor on the “bend at Meridian,” a gateway to an ever expanding city, if you will. But St. Paul’s has not changed.

St. Paul’s is CHANGED. The “frozen chosen” are thawing. All are now welcomed. More hugs are being of- fered than handshakes. New ministries are being recognized. New groups are being formed. New locations are being sought to accommodate (and facilitate) growth. More money is being pledged AND given. Excitement is building. But St. Paul’s has not changed.

Ironically though, St. Paul’s has stood for 150 years as a monument of change. While I philosophically disagree with why those early founders split from worshipping congregants at Christ Church all those many years ago, I can certainly respect their desire for change. They felt God was calling them to move on. They felt it was time, in the spirit of the apostle Paul, to “begin a new thing.” I get it. What has changed at St. Paul’s? What has changed is what we, the Church, stand for. I am the change at St. Paul’s, and so are you. Change is good. While the physical space is different (and the address, too, for those old enough to remember “10 west 61st Street”), the real CHANGE is within. The names and faces that one sees at church belong to real living, breathing souls longing for a deep relationship with each other, and with Christ. We believe there should be no boundary between God’s people and a deeper knowledge of Christ. To para- phrase Bishop N.T. Wright, Christianity is, essentially, a team sport. It cannot happen in singularity. It needs community to thrive. That is the change at St. Paul’s. We are a 150-year-old community striving for more – more understanding, more community, more relation. That is our gift, our blessing.

That is what St. Paul’s means to me. That is what St. Paul’s has meant to me. I feel my responsibility is to pass on my part of that heritage, that gift, that blessing to the ones that come after me in the next 150 years. Maybe St. Paul’s has changed, but maybe, just maybe, and more important, St. Paul’s IS change.

Kathy Luessow We belong here at St. Paul’s. We matter here. Even though Angie and I both had our own spiritual paths and relationships with God, we had been unable to find a church that felt like home – a church for Sunday wor- ship and a place for connection. When our family grew to include Henry, our search for a church home grew in the voices of st. paul’s - 23 - importance. We both knew that we wanted him to grow up in a community where he could be himself, where he could ask questions, where he could learn about who he is during times of struggle and times of peace. Selfishly, we wanted all of that for ourselves, too.

A neighbor of ours invited us to join him on a Sunday at St. Paul’s. That same week, another neighbor shared about her connection to our church. We decided to go because, well, that seemed like a pretty strong signal. Honestly, when we walked in and found a seat (which is actually still where we sit), we took a breath, looked at each other, and knew we both felt comfortable. After the worship service, we knew we were home.

At St. Paul’s, we are welcomed. At St. Paul’s, we are learning about the teaching of Jesus. At St. Paul’s, we have opportunities to give to something greater than ourselves. At St. Paul’s, our child is celebrated and included. Just like every child should be. At St. Paul’s, our pew-mates don’t get upset when Hulk Smash and Captain America come to worship with our family. At St. Paul’s, my family is part of a dynamic, inclusive congregation where love is part of what we do. At St. Paul’s, I am forever grateful that we belong.

Barbara MacDougall I began attending St. Paul’s in 1977. I had stopped going to church during college and my early twenties, but felt a pull to return. St. Paul’s was the first Episcopal Church I visited, and I’m still here! I was confirmed here, my husband and I were married here, both of our children were baptized and grew up here. I was initially drawn by the beauty of the worship space, the tradition and the liturgy. But once I put down some roots and began to participate in activities beyond worship, it was the people of St. Paul’s that made it the special and integral part of my life that it remains these 39 years later.

I loved my time in the choir in the late 1970s and early 1980s. I loved St. Anne’s Guild and all the young moms who shared that group as we were raising our kids together and working to support the Sunday School. I loved working with the ECW for the annual Rummage Sale and the Heart’s Desire Auction. I have loved the interac- tion with, and the example set, by so many wonderful folks who have left our side: Jack and Molly Adams, Bill and Ginny Bell, Bob and Dede Cash, Ed and Jo Eaton, Floyd and Madeline Heaton, Harlan and Fran Johnson, Clint and Betsy Jones, David and Sarah Jordan, Lee and Bette Kennedy, Flo and Gene Miller, Harold and Jane Taylor, to recall a few. I’ve especially loved serving on the Altar Guild and in many outreach efforts. I have loved the growth and evolution of St. Paul’s. When other institutions seem to be ignoring or rejecting a broader understanding of God’s love for the world and each person in it, this church has sought to be open to new information, changing views, and greater acceptance.

Of all the many joys and blessings I have experienced here, one of the most prominent is our daughter’s wedding. Katie met Steven here at St. Paul’s in the Young Adult Group, and both families were members of the church. On a perfect fall day, the church was full of people who had known us for many years, and Katie for her entire life. In the liturgy Les Carpenter, the presiding priest, asked the congregation, “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?” The resound- ing “We will!” came from family and friends, from young and old, from people we love and who love us – the voices of St. Paul’s. It was such a sacred moment, and it never fails to bring tears to my eyes when I remem- ber it. For me, that is St. Paul’s in a nutshell. My experience here is that, as a faith family, we do all that we can to uphold one another. We don’t always get it right, I’m sure things have slipped through the cracks. But the intent and desire to help one another is authentic and palpable, and I believe it extends beyond our walls to others. It is one of the principal reasons I love St. Paul’s and expect that it will always be my church home.

As we celebrate our 150th year, I give grateful thanks to God, and for all who have gone before who have made St. Paul’s what it is. May God continue to bless this parish and people! Ray and Mary Kay McCauley [What Drew Us to St. Paul’s Church] My husband Ray and I grew up in different denominations (Ray, Roman Catholic and me, Disciples of Christ). While living in Lafayette, I continued attending my church, with Ray attending only at the holidays. In Lafayette, we had other family, friends and our jobs that kept us busy, kept us grounded and made us feel part of the larger community. When my job was transferred to Indy several years ago, we resisted moving at first but the commute was hard on me. We moved to Indy knowing we would need to establish new relation- ships. I wanted Ray to attend church with me so we could have something to share in our lives together that we weren’t directly sharing before.

Morally and spiritually our compasses point in the same direction, but Ray was never completely comfort- able at my protestant church. I had discovered the Anglican Communion while on assignment in Kinsale, Ireland for my job, where I attended the Church of Ireland. I slowly made the connection with the Episcopal Church in the US. Pardon my ignorance, but at that time I only knew the Disciples of Christ Church and did not have a good understanding of other protestant faiths. I know more about the Catholic Church because of my marriage. I told Ray what the Episcopal Church was like, and he thought it might be more comfortable and familiar to him. After all, I’d finally heard the joke about it being called “Catholic Lite.”

I looked online for an Episcopal church that was somewhat close to our new house and found St. Paul’s. I at- tended by myself the first few times to check it out. I filled out a visitor card on my first visit and was pleasantly surprised to receive an email almost right away from Father John. That made a very good first impression. The friendly atmosphere also made a nice impression. He invited Ray and me to meet with him during his office hours at a coffee shop. I thought it was nice to meet in an environment that was not intimidating. Father John explained more about the church history and that it was not unusual for a “mixed” Catholic/Protestant couple to find a home at an Episcopal church. We both have been impressed with everyone who preaches, even though the style and delivery have all been so unique, yet so effective at delivering the message.

Sometimes the church seems too big for me, as I was used to attending a church where we were lucky to have 100 people attending. But the longer we’ve stayed, it has become smaller in a way, as we find different individuals and group events with which to interact. I feel like I made a big step when I went through confirma- tion, and Ray took a big step by taking communion. He considered that as his official break from the Catholic Church. We have no regrets joining St. Paul’s and we hope to be a part of the church for as long as we can.

Jay Mermoud In the years prior to joining St. Paul’s in 2010, I had gone through a protracted period of time helping a family member through an unimaginable medical situ- ation which – as so often is the case – left me drained emotionally, spiritually and physically. Once my family situation stabilized, I struggled desperately to find renewal and growth in the parish I was attending at the time. I decided it would be helpful if I could just “be” somewhere else now and again, to just listen for God and to myself awhile in a different space.

As an organist and vocalist, music is perhaps the strongest medium by which I experience a connection to the divine. I’d always heard good things about St. Paul’s music and liturgy, and started driving an hour to

the voices of st. paul’s - 25 - Indianapolis once a month for Evensong. It was a wonderful tonic. I hadn’t felt that wave of emotion I used to get hearing deeply moving music in years. In an instant, as light poured through the stained glass onto my bulletin, the smell of incense entered the air, and the choir started the introit, I began to reconnect with the joy of my spiritual- ity, and subsequently connected with St. Paul’s. The feeling was overwhelming and good. I noticed as I returned to Evensong again and again, that I would drive the hour to church in complete silence, listen to the service, and drive home in complete silence. Three hours of uninterrupted peace. I thought of it as a meditative experience and it spoke to me. Eventually I came to a Sunday morning service and it became clear to me that I was on a path to a new spiritual home at St. Paul’s. I transferred my membership and had a getting-to-know-you lunch with Les Carpenter. I explained the above to him and, while I understood the expectation that I be involved in the parish, I requested a little more time just to sit on the sidelines and just “be.” He understood and was amazingly supportive.

In time I came to know more parishioners and became more engaged. As I grew at St. Paul’s, my imagination took hold and I started wondering what I might be able to contribute. It was then I started working on the concept for what would become our combined art project for Pentecost 2015, “Formation.” I eventually approached John Denson with the idea, and we moved toward a plan to bring this work to life at St. Paul’s. It was a blessing to be entrusted with what would be a dramatic impact on our worship space. The blessings continued in getting to work with the whole parish on putting it together piece by piece. Though I had a vision and a clear plan to bring “Forma- tion” to life, there were improvements and contributions being made by the volunteers even as we were raising it in the air. The work was well received and it was then I felt fully welcomed to the corporate life and work of St. Paul’s.

Emily Morgan [Beauty Borrowed] A New England tenderfoot, left-leaning Coming of age in a KJV world Initiated by tide charts and White Mountains Displaced to prairie, plains, and redbuds Baptized in salt water and Indian lakes My true yearnings, tree tendrils reaching deep By the rivers of Babylon Only to find my deepest roots in an apostle’s epiphany A new home For my soul, for my heart A new nature built by carpenter’s hands In the still water of the baptismal font The tide pools of Ogunquit Beach Where the periodicity of the tides cradle anemones, seaweed, chitons, algae All safe to thrive and grow in the lows and the highs The ebb and flow The gravitational pull of the sun and the moon The Both and the And The sprinkling of the water The spray of the Atlantic “Remember your baptism” Indiana limestone arches Granite walls of Franconia Notch Majestic stained glass Wild roses, Forget-me-Nots, Dutchman’s Britches and Queen Anne’s lace The vault of the ceiling and the stone floor “Go and sin no more” Flagstone footpaths, the blue-gray ocean below and sky above- a womb. And I, re-born a traveler on the marginal way Crafted wood and shining organ pipes, reflecting candlelight Tall pines, maples, and oaks, embracing sun-shimmered silver birches Frankincense and myrrh Fragrant pine beds and salt air Me. Grounded and ascending My spirit. Both safe and accepted

Lila Morris I was raised a Congregationalist. I was married twice by Congregational ministers, and I was widowed twice. Through the years I’ve always had more friends who were Episcopalians. In my fifteen years living in Seattle, my friends there all went to the Episcopal Church. (Their rector later was called to St. Paul’s, Indianapolis). When I came back to Indianapolis, I went to all their rummage sales. It wasn’t until I married Dick Morris that I became an Episcopalian. My friend Betsy Jones always made sure I was involved. Now I am at Marquette and attend the Thursday services there.

The Rev. Robin Myers and Evelyn Myers Evelyn and I share memories of St. Paul’s that reach back 40 years – memories and blessings so numerous, I’m sure we could write a book “Thanks for the Memories Old St. Paul’s.” Nonetheless, there are three that stand out.

Reaching back to the mid-1980s Evelyn remembers the invitation from the Rev. Bill Wieland to become the second EFM mentor continuing that part of his ministry. Over the years we got to know a number of parishioners and learned about the vibrant parish life at St. Paul’s. In due course, Evelyn handed the leadership of the EFM group to one of her former students, John Harkness.

Fast forward: It’s 1999. A Sunday night phone call from the Rev. Jim Leehan started me on a journey which blessed our lives in ways too numerous to recount. Over the next 10 years I would have the pleasure and privilege of serving St. Paul’s in times of transition.

Youth Ministries was at the heart of every congregation I served during my parish ministry. Certainly the highlight was our Pilgrimage, which followed the journey of St. Augustine from Rome to Canterbury, where he established the Church of England. There were two side trips along the way. One trip was to Assisi to learn more about St. Francis, and why he became the patron saint of Italy and a saint beloved around the world. The second was to Coventry Cathedral, whose bombed out shell stands beside the rebuilt cathedral as a testament to the power of reconciliation.

Terrific Tuesdays was a ministry which John Harkness and a small group of seniors helped me launch. The intention was to bring folks 55 and older together for a program and a good meal. My second tour of duty at St. Paul’s, I was called to provide pastoral ministry to the congregation through hospital and home visits.

These days our newly forming memories are those of the dedi- cation to excellence fostered and nurtured by the Rev. John Denson and his incredible team. We’ve been blessed by the pastoral care and support of his team. Lastly, we’re blessed by the comfort and joy in knowing that when life in this world is through, there is a place in the columbarium waiting for Evelyn and me, next to what has become our spiritual home.

the voices of st. paul’s - 27 - Ruth Nelson [Twelve Memories from over Sixty Years at St. Paul’s] 1. Celebrating the baptisms and confirmations of my three sons. 2. Teaching kindergarten Sunday School in the space now occupied by the choir lounge. 3. Witnessing the burning of the mortgage and the con secration of “St. Paul’s Protestant Episcopal Church” in 1961. 4. Working with St. Ann’s Guild members at bazaars, rummage sales and luncheons. 5. Providing receptions on festive occasions and after funerals as a member of the Hospitality Committee. 6. Serving on the Endowment Outreach Committee, the Vestry and Bishop Catherine Waynick’s first Standing Committee. 7. Singing in choirs from the late 1950s to 2014, including tours to the East Coast and the United Kingdom, and performing with Indianapolis Pro Musica. 8. Marveling at the newly remodeled church building, complete with Casavant organ. 9. Enjoying four years with fellow students and great teachers in the Education for Ministry (EFM) program. 10. Learning to become a Eucharistic Visitor and ministering to grateful parishioners. Also, learning the intricacies of Altar Guild duties. 11. Enjoying knowing many brilliant and dedicated clergy and staff members. 12. Experiencing the reassuring calm, beauty and strength of weekly Eucharists. Thanks be to God!

Sally Peck The children’s choir got pretty good, and one year we were invited to sing going down the escalator at Ayres (the downtown store) at Christmas time, holding lighted candles. I’m sure it looked lovely, until we sent one little girl’s hair on fire. The fire was put out quickly, but no more lighted candles! Another memory I have was stand- ing at the end of the aisle while the church was still under construction and remarking that the aisle didn’t seem very long. One of the men who was involved in the construction was standing with me, and he said “Wait until you are standing there with your father waiting to go down the aisle, and you will think it’s endless!”

Jim Poole [Memories] • 1951 neighbor invites my brother and me to go to church with them (Bill & Truth Neese). • Soon became a junior acolyte and later became a senior acolyte all through high school 1952-1958. (Father Weldon was in charge of the group, a very strong acolyte program.) • Was a Boy Scout in the new group 73. Belonged to Troop 133 at John Strange School and I changed troops to be a part of Troop 73. Joined 73 in 1953 and became first Eagle Scout from St. Paul’s troop in No- vember 1954. • Off to college and job out of state 1958-1967. • 1968 returned to Indianapolis and St. Paul’s. Married in Chicago December 1967. Wife joined St. Paul’s in 1968. • Children—David 1970, Ann 1971, baptized 1975 plus or minus. • Member of Vestry during Bob Browne era. • Usher past 20 + years.

Kathy Poole I grew up across the street from a Methodist Church. Rolled out of bed and into church. Married Jim. Then we drove across town to celebrate being an Episcopalian in the church where Jim belonged. Our children’s baptisms made us regulars. Sunday School with Helen Rudesill and Harriet Green. Meantime, the annual Rummage Sale interested me: Bette Kennedy, Sara Jordan, Helen Blackburn, Eleanor Black. Oh the fun of meeting weekly (yes weekly!) and going through other people’s junk. February was din- ner theater month. The rehearsals were as entertaining as the actual event. Don Boardman wrote and cho- reographed the clever scripts and those of us with talent and with questionable talent participated. Laugh, oh my... Thursday Bible study with Alice Roettger and Flo Miller was so meaningful. They provided us the opportunity to interpret the Bible in our own way and feel what we thought was acceptable.

Serving on committees enabled me to be a part of St. Paul’s outreach in the community and the world – the Endowment, Faith in Action, Mission in Mombasa, IPS School #14. It was good to work with people commit- ted to using St. Paul’s resources to enrich others. A particular committee pleasure was serving in the Dis- cernment Committee as Barb Kempf prepared for the Diaconate. Then, to see her ordained and return to us as a priest was very special. The process made a full circle. There was also time spent serving on the Vestry with two different Rectors – many changes, lots of turmoil. Those were trying times, but we have survived with God’s help. When I enter the church on Sunday morning, I look around and bless the memories.

Derek and Lori Price, Maddie and Benjamin [What drew us to St. Paul’s and why have we stayed?] Welcoming, hospitable, personal, loving and inclusive. One of us is a lifelong, cradle Episcopalian while the other was raised Methodist and has an ongoing distrust and skepticism of organized religion. St. Paul’s speaks to both of us – providing each of us space and support to find God – and creating a home for our children to be loved by Christ and by the community of people that is St. Paul’s.

St. Paul’s provides a structure and ritual for us to practice our faith and strengthen our relationship with Christ. The people of St. Paul’s provide a community of seekers with whom to journey towards a vision of a loving, inclusive community where all people are welcome. The clergy of St. Paul’s reinforce the mystery of Christ through the rituals, hymns and prayers of the Episcopal Church, and they encourage us to profess our faith not only through communal worship but also via thoughts, words and deeds in our daily lives.

We came to St. Paul’s to experience the comfort of tradition and to find motivation in living life as Christ did, loving others as he loves us. We have stayed at St. Paul’s because our journey is not complete, and this community of faith lifts us up to become better Christians through personal relationships, communal wor- ship, and unwavering love and support for our family and our journey in faith. Welcoming, hospitable, per- sonal, loving and inclusive – These five words reflect what drew us to St. Paul’s and why we have stayed.

Susan Reinhardt [St. Paul’s was There] Our family joined St. Paul’s in the early 1970s when I was just three years old. Our arrival was also a home- coming for our mother, whose family attended St. Paul’s during earlier years. Home is defined as “a place where someone lives,” but a home serves a much larger purpose. A home is where one should feel a sense of comfort, safety and peace. A home is where memories are made and where rites of passage occur. A home is where families gather for happy occasions and where families struggle through hard times. A home is a place one leaves and comes back to visit. A home is “there” no matter what, and since St. Paul’s was our church home, St. Paul’s was there.

A family of six began attending a church that was closer to home – St. Paul’s was there. A nervous preschooler needed a Sunday School room and loving Sunday School teachers who would make her feel at ease and have fun (at the Redbird table) – St. Paul’s was there. Two sisters, wearing matching Easter dresses, walked to the front of the church to deposit their mite boxes

the voices of st. paul’s - 29 - at the altar. The younger of the two missed the step and fell flat on her face – St. Paul’s was there. A young child, beaming with pride, led the procession into the children’s chapel for the first time – St. Paul’s was there. A teenage girl looked forward to church for all the wrong reasons, blushing as a handsome young acolyte passed by the choir and winked at her – St. Paul’s was there. A group of choristers spent year after year at Thursday night choir practices – St. Paul’s was there. Singers, ranging in age from 9 to 54, boarded a plane bound for England and embarked on the first of many glorious choir tours – St. Paul’s was there. The loving arms of the congregation were wrapped around a father and his family when they were unsure if he would recover from a heart attack – St. Paul’s was there. One magical Christmas Eve, a young girl spent more time watching her new diamond engagement ring sparkle under the lights than listening to the message of Christmas – St. Paul’s was there. A proud father walked his four daughters down the aisle at each of their weddings – St. Paul’s was there. Family and friends gathered from near and far to celebrate a very special 50th wedding anniversary – St. Paul’s was there A heartbroken and scared young mother returned to a familiar pew and thought things would never get better – St. Paul’s was there. Lifelong friends smiled a “welcome back” smile as they processed in with the choir – St. Paul’s was there. A young mother watched her daughter portray an angel, the Angel Gabriel, a wise “man” and Mary in several years of Christmas pageants – St. Paul’s was there. A man, injured from a fall, returned to church after a long recovery and was welcomed back by everyone he saw – St. Paul’s was there. A grandpa grinned as he exchanged smiles and winks with his granddaughter who was serving at the altar – St. Paul’s was there. The beauty and tradition of Waycross had a way of connecting us to God. Now, my own child has felt that special connection – St. Paul’s was there.

The beautiful music, the amazing beauty of the space, the new friends and forever friends, the words of wisdom from the pulpit (or in front of the altar rail), the opportunity to serve, the welcome feeling, the feeling of peace – all call us to a place we know as home. St. Paul’s – as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be there.

Millie Roberts I grew up in the Disciples of Christ Church. When I was in high school I went to church at 17th and Broad- way. We studied different religions and the minister had nothing good to say about Episcopalians; that really roused my curiosity! (He later retired and ran away with his secretary.) At Indiana University I met a gal from Shaker Heights, OH who was Episcopalian, and I told her I wanted to go to church with her. We went to Trin- ity; I loved it and I was SOLD on the Episcopal Church.

My husband and I had varied but similar religious backgrounds. When we were married in the Disciples of Christ Church in Indianapolis, we moved to Tipton, IN, where we continued to attend the Disciples of Christ. They wanted my husband, who was baptized in the Catholic Church, to join the church, but he would have had to be baptized again for total immersion. He said he wouldn’t do it; if the first one wasn’t good enough, forget it! We tried the Presbyterian Church; I didn’t like that because, if you moved to a new church, you had to be voted in. We finally decided that the Episcopal Church was what we wanted. We bought a house near Fox Hill and Hoover Road and decided to go to St. Paul’s. One Saturday, after moving in and working all day, we heard the bells of St. Paul’s; it was magical, and we knew this was the right place. We’ve been going to St. Paul’s since 1964. We’ve been through thick and thin, but we stayed at St. Paul’s because it felt like home.

My fondest memory was being an exotic dancer for the church. We had a dinner theater; Dr. Staines was the instigator, and we had a chorus line and everything. One year the theme was that someone in the audi- ence had won a trip to Europe, and the show was going to show them what they would experience. I played a dancer in a French night club; Dick Egan was the waiter. For some reason I had a record of the music from the Folies Bergère that we were going to play for the dance. Marilyn Vargo said she wanted to play the piano for the act; I told her that the act required percussion, and that this club wasn’t ritzy enough to have live music. (I don’t think she ever forgave me.) The costume mistress asked what I needed; I said I needed a sexy poncho to wear with a leotard and my gold dance shoes. She found a gray chiffon evening gown that someone had donated to rummage; she used the skirt as the poncho. She also found a negligee with turquoise marabou feathers, and she dyed the dress to match.

We had a well-qualified director who was active in the local amateur theater scene. She wanted me to stumble around and act stupid; I didn’t do that, and she told me, “The trouble is, you’re too good.” I refused to “clumsy up” my act; I played it straight. On Sunday after church, Dr. Staines said, “You have amazing tal- ent.” The cast of the show became really close; that was so much fun and we made money for the church.

One year I was dismissed as a Church School teacher. Janet Stackhouse and I were friends, and we were talked into teaching a class for second grade boys in the early 1980s. I don’t fit the mold. The boys were supposed to cut out and paste a lot, but boys that age have a hard enough time staying in their chairs! We were supposed to be studying the life of Jesus as a boy. I told them that there was no little league, and that when they celebrated, they danced. We taught them a dance called the Israeli Jump, which had yelling and clapping and jumping – the things 2nd grade boys like to do. Since we didn’t follow the Church of England curriculum, we were dismissed.

St. Paul’s is a place where I’ve been able to be myself, right or wrong, and find acceptance. And also a few laughs along the way! That’s the way home should be. I love the liturgy, the sermons and the physical sur- roundings at St. Paul’s.

Dick and Alice Ashby Roettger [What St. Paul’s Means to Me] When assessing my life at St. Paul’s, the words that come to mind are “sanctuary” and “peace.” No matter what my mood or state of mind when I enter that space, I sense a calming presence. The weight of worldly bur- dens falls from me and I sigh in relief. This is God’s house, built for Him and, thus, for me as His child. Yes, I can experience God on the proverbial golf course or in the middle of a traffic jam, but there’s something different about that presence within those walls. The world disappears, and it is God and me only. It is there that I can clear my mind and deal with sorrow, disappointment, tragedy, heartbreak, anger and all the difficulties

the voices of st. paul’s - 31 - that one faces in one’s travels through life. It is there that I also can express gratitude, thankfulness, joy and all of those counterpoint experiences. No matter what the feeling, the ways of the world fall away for me, and God and I meet in His perfect perspective. That is sanctuary.

Whenever I sink into a pew, I feel a sense of peace that I cannot feel anywhere else but a church—that “peace that passeth all understanding.” And St. Paul’s happens to be that church for me. All will be well even when I can’t see how it will be. However, if it were only that “in-reach,” my spiritual life would be incomplete. It is that sense of peace that allows me to search out how to do God’s work. Knowing that it has been God and me in a sacred atmosphere, I can confidently use my talents to serve both church and the world, employing them in a unique way, minus the worldly temptations of competition, recompense or recognition.

When I am asked how long I have been at St. Paul’s, my answer is: “Which time?” As a 5-year-old, I accom- panied my parents as they helped give St. Paul’s a second life at the American Legion Hall in the 1940s. The foundation was laid there. For reasons I don’t know about, we became unchurched during my pre-adolescent and adolescent years. When Dick and I were married, we avoided that “social” church, as it had become known to many. What drew us there when our children were growing up, I didn’t know at the time. But looking back, I believe that God drew us there in 1974 because that was where we should be. As our youngest wrote when she listed major events in her life, “St. Paul’s was there for me.” And it has been there for me too.

Doug Rogers [Celebrating our Community] When my kids were little, they loved to gather each Sunday in the choir pews to closely watch the organist play the postludes after the 9:00 service. They enjoyed a great view of the ranks of keys, the pedals and more stops than they could count. Other kids and a few adults occasionally joined us. I suspect that their fascination with the organ had a lot to do with all three boys having a lasting joy of music and with the youngest serving many years in the church choir.

Helen Rudesill I have always felt the presence of God at St. Paul’s. I lived on Clarendon Place in a duplex while Bob served in Korea for two years. He was in charge of a hospital over there. Our sons were just 13 months apart and the youngest was just three months old when he left. I was fortunate to have Jack and Penny Mertz, who lived in the other half of the double. They had one daughter who became my Godchild and has been such a blessing in my life. We took turns attending St. Paul’s and I will always remember my first time attending; the memory is as fresh as it was back then. A lady met me at the door; she was dressed in a polka dot dress and greeted me. I felt her warmth; I have never forgotten her. The woman was Dell Rogers and her husband was Hiram.

The welcoming and warmth of people have always been a part of my memories. Later in my life my mother came to visit just after my father died. She and I attended church and she remarked to me, “I feel the pres- ence of God and a sense of peace in this church.” I agreed with her.

One of the great joys in my life was teaching preschool at St. Paul’s. We had so many children you couldn’t count them – the room was packed with children! I had been here two years when John Vruwink asked me if I would consider being in charge of the two- to four-year-olds class. I was expecting my third child at the time; I said I would teach them the stories in the Bible, the teachings of Christ, and things that would be meaningful to them. He said that was fine. I was there every Sunday, with very few exceptions. I felt strongly that the children needed continuity and stability. I eventually taught Dell and Hiram Roger’s son, Doug, and subsequently his sons Daniel, Jeremy and Evan. This shows how love continues.

I retired from this ministry about six years ago (Bob was already retired), and the words of a prominent theologian whose name I cannot recall came to me. “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” I think that says it all. Fred and Bev Ruebeck We are blessed to call St. Paul’s as our church home. The spirit-filled sacred spaces, the liturgy and music, the friendships, the opportunities, are all blessings to us. We have been members of St. Paul’s for many years. We have stayed through thick and thin because we have always believed the people are the church and hoped we could be a part of making a difference and keeping the parish community moving forward.

St. Paul’s is where we our faith continues to grow in an open and caring community. It is an easy place to share our faith, become friends with other members, develop relationships and participate in activities. Years ago, we discovered our gifts through a gifts identification program. Fred’s gift being sharing his financial skills by being a treasurer and now Chairman of the Endowments with and Bev’s gifts of service and care giving. The liturgy and music touches our hearts. We are both involved in the liturgy either by being a lector or serving at the altar. And appreciate the musicians who make the music program so very special.

We enjoy a richness of experiences at St. Paul’s by sharing our selves through service opportunities. We have given our hands and hearts to God’s work in the world by being involved in Habitat builds, feeding ministries, taking communion to shut-ins, diocesan activities and going to Brasilia for the Diocesan partnerships a number of years ago. We know we receive more than we give when we are outside the walls of the church and touching the lives of people. All this reminds us of how very much we are blessed.

We have enjoyed watching St. Paul’s community evolve over the years growing into a welcoming place for visitors and current members.

Bob and Sue Schlifke The first time we visited St. Paul’s was in the spring of 2012 when we were visiting the Indianapolis area. We came again in June of 2013, having moved to Westfield a few weeks earlier, and after visiting two other churches in the area. Our experience at St. Paul’s was very positive.

For years we had been active in small parishes, and we knew when we moved here we wanted to participate in a larger church that offered quality music, excellent preaching (and hopefully chanting), knowledgeable clergy, and good liturgy. The beautiful sanctuary and well-kept facility was an added bonus. We have stayed at St. Paul’s because of all these things, as well as the numerous outreach opportunities, the Sunday adult education sessions, and mostly the friendly, caring people that we see and talk with every week. St. Paul’s is made up of people from many different backgrounds – different denominations as well as previously unchurched – who have found a home in this welcoming community. These people welcomed us, and were interested in getting us involved. St. Paul’s has proven that churches are great places to meet people, feel connected, and find the opportunity for service.

Abigail Schollenberger (age 13) I love St. Paul’s. I love it because everyone is accepted here because we know that God loves all of us. I met one of my best friends there and I really enjoy the choir. I love what we sing and who is in the choir. I am so thankful for St. Paul’s.

Fred Scott and Katherine Tyler Scott We moved to Indianapolis from Washington, D.C. the year of the nation’s bicentennial. I had finished graduate school and Fred had completed his first law degree here, so we were in familiar territory. After settling into jobs our top two priorities were to find the voices of st. paul’s - 33 - a school for our son and a church home for our family. St. Richards was our first choice and this led to our finding a home in the Episcopal Church. We visited every parish in the deanery but did not pick St. Paul’s. At the time it did not feel hospitable or welcoming. For several decades our family flourished within the parish community we did choose. We became very active in diocesan and national church affairs. We never thought of being at any other place until discomforting division and upheaval occurred from the mishandling of the controversial issue of same sex blessings. Relationships were strained; trust was frayed; the parish divided. We found ourselves searching again. This time we found a different St. Paul’s. This time we were greeted and shown genuine hospitality and care from clergy and parishioners alike. We felt truly welcomed.

St. Paul’s tradition of strong clergy and involved lay leadership, commitment to the spiritual development of the congregation, the beautiful liturgy and substantive homilies were all aspects of a culture of worship dedicated to service and outreach that appealed to us. We have found our home.

Over the years there have been experiences of clergy misbehavior from which the congregation has learned and grown stronger. At no time during our experience here did we see people turn on one another or try to divide the community. There has been strong disagreement on issues that would have destroyed another congregation. Perhaps this is because of St. Paul’s leadership, its deep faith and capacity to learn from adversity.

We are an increasingly diverse, healthy community, accepting of all – a message that John Denson, our current rec- tor, reminds us of through word and deed. The clear message of the worth and acceptance of all, the sacred space, glorious music, and congruent liturgy stirs our souls and encourages us to think and act in deeper, more profound ways. We love the well-prepared homilies that call us to greater self-awareness, consciousness, and ethical lives. We are formed in community through excellent preaching, education, and an example of inclusiveness and integrity that is modeled by the rector and those he has called to share this ministry. Consistent, mature, faith-driven leader- ship does make a huge difference! St. Paul’s has cultivated a culture of trust and Christian love in which we recog- nize the resources we possess within, and the God-given gifts with which we have been entrusted. We are better equipped to go into the world to love and serve the Lord. For all of these gifts we are grateful. Thanks be to God!

Ann Shupert [What Drew Me to St. Paul’s] When I came to St. Paul’s in 2000 I was in need of the love of God and community. Life had been difficult and I felt empty. I was blessed that God guided me to St. Paul’s. The liturgy filled my soul and the music raised me up. Even though I was a cradle Episcopalian, I had never been so moved by a service. I knew I was in the presence of God. With its loving congregation, St. Paul’s warmly welcomed me home. Indeed I have been blessed!

Michael and Gayle Stahl When we met, we were from different states, different backgrounds, and had experienced different religious upbringings, but we fell in love and were married at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in 1985 by the Rev. William Weiland. Despite the differences in our religious backgrounds, we were both drawn to St. Paul’s from the beginning; we agreed it could be our church home. Even so, circumstances kept us away for several years. Thankfully, and with the help of God, we found our way back; we resumed attendance on a regular basis, and have involved ourselves in the life of the church as much as possible. Attending weekly services is healing for us, just as it is for many others we’re sure. In times of trouble, we have offered comfort to a few friends, just as we have been comforted. We enjoy finding new faces in the Sunday morning crowd and welcoming them, inviting them to return; it isn’t difficult to show our enthusiasm for the value of becoming a part of St. Paul’s. Early on, when we resumed our regular attendance, it seemed it would be impossible to get to know people in such a large church. Then one Sunday, the Rev. Alan Mead was making announcements about all of the events and programs taking place, indicating that people were needed to help out. He said, with a tad bit of exasperation, “There’s a lot going on within these walls—just pick something.” He was so right! Just picking something, being involved, has led to friendships and spiritual comfort that is treasured. St. Paul’s has indeed become our church home.

Mary Miller Stanley I have been a member of St. Paul’s my whole life, so of course I have received from and experienced many blessings at St. Paul’s. A huge one that immediately comes to mind is the privilege of my current employment as Director of Charitable Gift Planning and Legal Affairs at Central Indiana Community Foundation. In this position, I mostly work with people who are striving to experience the transformative power of philanthropy in a way most meaningful to them. Talk about a blessing! Maybe they’re not sure if they want to support charities fighting homelessness, providing hunger relief or work supports, supporting brain care research or educational attainment (and the list goes on), whether in central Indiana, nationally or globally. How did I get to be so lucky to go to work every day to help people be as effective in their charitable giving as they can be? The honest to goodness answer is I have God and my church to thank! After I “retired” from Baker & Daniels and the practice of law (or at least so I thought), when my oldest kids were ages eleven and nine and my youngest was one, I had some free time. I became more involved at St. Paul’s. I helped on the Stewardship Committee, became a member of the Vestry, and eventually found myself called to chair the Capital Campaign Steering Committee back in 2006-07. Little did I know that service was preparing me for the next phase of my professional career. But God did! When my “baby” started middle school and we had two in college, my experience at St. Paul’s enabled me to land my dream job. And I had no idea I was ever even going back to work. But God did!

Eric, Marianne and Daniel Stauffer St. Paul’s has meant many things for our family. It began as a church that could join both my husband’s and my religious backgrounds, but it has become so much more than that. St. Paul’s is our place of worship. It has connected us to people who are like family. It has offered opportunities to work with youth that have enriched our lives. It has given our child a place to be himself and to grow in his love of Christ. We have fun with family activities and at Waycross. I can’t imagine our lives without it. We look forward to the years ahead!

Mark Stoner I and Becky Stoner My wife, Becky, and I have been active at St. Paul’s since the early 1980s. We were drawn to the music program led by Frank Boles. I can still remember hearing the congregation sing the hymn Helmsley (Lo He Comes #57) for the first time and thinking I had never heard such majesty, such grandeur, such perfection in worshiping an almighty, loving God. From that point on, I knew I belonged in the Episcopal Church.

Through the years, we and our son Mark II have had the good fortune to serve St. Paul’s in a variety of functions including committees, choir and vestry. We have seen the dedication of so many people who have given their lives, time, monies and talent so St. Paul’s could be the wonderful church it is. We have seen strong leadership and humble acts of faith through the many parishioners and clergy we have had the joy to encounter.

Most of all, we have been given an opportunity to live our lives through Christ’s example. As a criminal trial judge, I often have the awesome and awful experience to sentence defendants for their criminal actions. I have tried to remember His many acts of humility and forgiveness, and have tried to instill in them a sense of hope and purpose in their lives. I could not do that without the support and example from so many people I have met at St. Paul’s. It is truly been a blessing and honor to worship here.

the voices of st. paul’s - 35 - Ann R. Strong Memories are enjoyable to ponder and relate. What brought me to St. Paul’s? My parents’ car! When the new church was built in the present location, close to our neighborhood, my family began attending. I was 8 years old. As a youngster, teen, young adult, middle aged and now one of the old folks, St. Paul’s has been a very important part of my life as well as for my family. Blessings abound: church school classes, Delta Guild, junior choir, youth group, teaching Sunday School, serving as Christian Education Director, other leadership partici- pation and service. When I was a teenager, girls could not be acolytes so the organization that we belonged to in order to serve the church was “Delta Girls.” We met once a month with the priest, John Vruwink, for communion and an inspirational message before stuffing the newsletter envelopes. We were also waitresses at the men’s Christmas dinner. My brother was an acolyte, as were our sons. The boys relished relating “what went wrong” around the altar as we drove home from church. When they were not serving they always checked to see if subs were needed before sitting in the pew with us.

St. Paul’s is my church home. I appreciate the liturgy, people, and opportunities to serve. My brother and our boys were proud to serve, attend church school and youth group meetings and outings. My life has been en- riched by experiences and knowing other dear congregants. Cherished friendships have evolved. I am grateful to be able to “sing” the hymns, hum the music, and recall liturgical passages for inspiration during the week.

The church represents stability with change. My overwhelming feeling is comfort in the spaces, liturgy, people, clergy, leaders, and of inspiration. I can recall a new member at one time relating, during a meeting, that she was interested in joining St. Paul’s. She admired the ability of the congregation to continue with able leadership and support during the time of unexpected change. St. Paul’s also represents the cycle of lives around me. I can remember Emily Krauser “attending” in an infant seat. I have also more recently watched as church friends face aging, disability and passing. Influenced by spiritual grounding and faith emanating from St. Paul’s and within, I have wanted to share the richness of the opportunities in the exploration of topics related to religion, education and arts. Fortunately my dream of founding a Chautauqua-Wawasee has been realized. With considerable support and cooperation from others, these three dimensions are offered in an informal setting where recreation is also part of the experience.

Mary Sutherland I arrived at St. Paul’s in the late 1970s after a year of reflection precipitated by my first experience of discrim- ination. I had been told by the priest at a nearby parish that I could not be a chalice bearer there because “the parish wasn’t ready for women” to engage in this ministry. This was especially painful to me because I had been strongly encouraged to do this by another parishioner and had attended the required Diocesan training for this ministry. I had never experienced anything like this before and found it difficult to accept.

When I decided to leave this parish I came to St. Paul’s, and Bob Browne, the rector at the time, greeted me warmly and told me I could be a chalice bearer at St. Paul’s if I wanted to. I felt warmly welcomed and accepted. Although my life circumstances have changed over the years, making my attendance at St. Paul’s somewhat sporadic, whenever I return I still recall and feel that first warm welcome.

Judy Sutton I have been a member of St. Paul’s since 1983. There have been many good moments and some bad ones. Through parishioners who are the “hands and heart of Jesus,” I have experienced many occasions of grace. That has kept me going. I have been inspired by the many people who are involved in outreach beyond the walls of the church, but many have touched me through quiet, individual acts. When I taught first grade Sunday School, we had a refugee child who would sit outside the classroom door. Week after week, he was too afraid to enter, no matter what I tried. One day a boy put his arm around this child and said, “You’re going to be my friend,” and pulled him into the classroom. All it took was this boy’s act of compassion. There was the Sunday School teacher who said just the right thing to me at a difficult moment in my child’s life, and the dear woman who saw I had a new baby with me one Sunday and showed up at our house with soup that afternoon. A wonderful man gave his time to accompany my daughter at her state high school cello competi- tion. My daughter’s high school Sunday School teacher inspired her school essay on “Someone I Admire.”

A priest turned my son’s youth group paint ball expedition into a brilliant lesson on war, by having them watch and discuss “Saving Private Ryan” after playing paint ball. There were many who showed kindness to my parents as they aged – including the little girls who always made my mom’s day by giving her a hug. A couple brought communion to her in the nursing home. A lovely woman asked me my mother’s favorite color and then made a quilt for her.

Many friends have supported me at difficult times in my life. They, and many other “saints,” make St. Paul’s a warm and loving community, and inspire me in my daily life.

Joe and Ann Thompson My introduction to St. Paul’s occurred in the 1940s when I was a teenager. One sunny afternoon my mother received a call from her friend, Rosemary Hollett. Would we like to go kite-flying with the Holletts and their two boys? We’d love to! It sounded like a fun excursion for a windy afternoon. Mother and I met the Holletts on an empty green field at Meridian Street and Kessler Boulevard. The wind was with us, we got the kites soaring and the little guys were overjoyed. Rosemary then dropped the news that this perfect playground was soon to be the new home of their church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. It was due to be built there soon.

My family and I were members of the old First Presbyterian Church at 16th and Delaware Streets. We accepted the news of St. Paul’s move and thought little more about it. Years later Joe and I were married and, being a “cradle” Episcopalian, one of Joe’s admonitions was “Get over to St. Paul’s and join the communicants class, with Father Vruwink,” which I dutifully did.

St. Paul’s has been a spiritual bulwark for us and all our family. Our four sons have strong faiths, as a result of St. Paul’s fine Sunday School. We have loved and depended on St. Paul’s in our spiritual walk through life, as its members and clergy have loved and depended on us. Thank you St. Paul’s for immersing us in God’s immeasurable blessings.

Joanna Thuesen (age 16) St. Paul’s means the world to me. I have been going to St. Paul’s ever since I was four years old and feel as though it is my second home. This church has always provided me with the support I need during hard times in my life. Not only is the architecture of the church breathtaking, but the people are even more outstanding. I have made so many friends at St. Paul’s through the years. They have given me hope and encouraged me to keep finding my way through life despite hard times. It is both a wonderful and comforting feeling to have a place to come to where everyone will accept you no matter what.

The biggest aspect about St. Paul’s that has changed my life is the choir. I have made some of my best friends in choir and feel as though I have experienced St. Paul’s to the fullest by being a part of it. Not only has the choir taught me discipline but also all the talented singers have inspired me to achieve great things. I have benefited significantly from being a Choral Scholar and having my music lessons paid for through the choir. This summer I greatly anticipate going on my third choir tour to Washington, DC. This tour sadly might be the last tour I ever take, with my junior year dawning upon me this fall. All the experiences I have had on these tours I will treasure for the rest of my life. Choir will forever be the highlight of my St. Paul’s experience. the voices of st. paul’s - 37 - Another highlight of my St. Paul’s experience has been the different changes of seasons and all the different forms of festivity that they bring. For example, Christmas and Easter are my favorite times of year primarily because of the beautiful decorations in the church as well as the delightful musical selections of the choir. An- other positive aspect of my St. Paul’s experience has been my various different adventures with the youth group. I have been going to Sunday School at St. Paul’s since I was in 6th grade. I have always thoroughly enjoyed the different mission trips we have made to places such as Chicago and Arkansas. It has been a pleasure to feel as though I have made a small, positive impact on the lives of the people in these places. I hope that future newcom- ers to St. Paul’s are able to enjoy St. Paul’s to the fullest, as I have. Even as I become an adult and move on to live in different states and hopefully join new parishes, I will always cherish my wonderful experience at St. Paul’s.

Margaret Thuesen (age 13) I love St. Paul’s because we are one big family. Everyone knows everybody. I met three of my best friends there. St. Paul’s has changed my life forever, and I will always remember it.

Peter Thuesen Jane and I have never lived closer than a ten-hour drive to any of our parents or siblings. Our children were born in three different states—Isaac in New Jersey, Joanna in Connecticut, and Margaret in Massachu- setts—as we moved between academic settings. Everywhere we lived, our Episcopal parish was our most important community. When we settled in Indianapolis twelve years ago, we found another surrogate family in St. Paul’s. From our earliest days in the parish, wonderful people, including Nancy and Jack Brown and Kathy and Jim Poole, took an interest in us and our children, and epitomized for us Christian love. Over time, we became ever more interconnected with members of the parish family.

Of course, opening oneself to the love of community also increases one’s exposure to loss. Among the special people who touched our lives and whose burial rites we have witnessed are Earl Whepley (2010), Joan Holt (2011), John Yergler (2012), Brad Messamore (2014), John Pless (2014), and Jack Brown (2015). Attend- ing the funeral of a sister or brother in Christ is both a sorrow and a privilege. The burial rite reminds us more powerfully than any of the church’s liturgies that though we are mortal (“In the midst of life we are in death”); we believe that death is not final for those who trust in Christ (“Even at the grave we make our song”).

I must add a concluding word about the gift of music at St. Paul’s. Before coming to Indianapolis, we had the good fortune to live in other cities with great Episcopal parishes (Princeton, New Jersey; New Haven, Connecticut; and Boston). But St. Paul’s intergenerational music program is the best we’ve known anywhere and has been an incomparable blessing for us and our children. Mastering the church’s liturgies and the tradition’s Anglican choral music is like learning a second language—a way of experiencing life’s holy mysteries. Wherever our children go, they will carry this language with them. May St. Paul’s continue to serve as an example to the wider church of the importance of investing in the church’s musical heritage.

Jane Kenyon Coming from a very small Episcopal church in Massachusetts twelve years ago, we at first found the size of St. Paul’s intimidating. We wondered if we would ever think of St. Paul’s as the cozy, tightly knit, caring family that we had found in our last parish. In fact, after attending St. Paul’s several Sundays in a row our very first summer here, we began to doubt that it was the right church for us. We loved the beautiful music and the handsome building, but we wondered how long it would take for us to feel like we belonged. We visited other churches. Then, on a whim, we gave St. Paul’s another chance. The Pooles (Kathy and Jim) and the Browns (Nancy and Jack) greeted us like long-lost relatives. They said that they had missed us and they hoped that we were doing well. They made us feel good. We felt like someone cared whether we were there or not. That Sunday, St. Paul’s became our church. Nancy, Jack, Kathy and Jim have been surrogate grand- parents to our children. When our youngest child, Margaret, was a toddler, she fell into a routine at church. After communion, she would pull a picture book out of her bag and walk over to Jim Poole. The two of them would sit together, turning the pages and looking at the pictures. Since that first summer, we have come to be close to many, many more people at St. Paul’s. I am so grateful for all the love and support we have felt here over the last twelve years. It’s literally impossible to imagine our lives without the people of St. Paul’s.

Bill Tindall I was initially drawn to St. Paul’s as a new resident of Indianapolis, looking for an Episcopal church near my new home. What keeps me here is the warm, loving and deeply caring community of parishioners.

Anne Traynor In 1958 my husband and I came to Indianapolis because of the severe economic downturn in Ireland. (He was from Waterford and I was from Dublin. He came earlier, and our two sons and I came later.) My husband had to have a job making no less than $80 a week to be able to bring me, my two baby boys (1 year, 11 months and 11 months) and a young Irish girl who worked for us. Less than one week after arriving I got a job so I could help out. We had been owners of a stationary store in Ireland but the recession really hurt business.

I was raised Catholic and so we attended St. Joan of Arc. My husband wanted a small family but I didn’t, and we had a total of seven children! Two of our seven children were baptized there. I had been unhappy in the church for some time, and their beliefs about gay people made staying untenable. One of my sons is gay and the Catholic Church was unwelcoming to gay people.

My husband died in 2006 after 50 years, nine months, and eleven days of being married. No one reached out to me or offered support from the church. Shortly after my husband’s death I was out riding my bike, hit the curb and flew over the handlebars, landing on my face. I felt and heard my nose breaking. Just then a motorist stopped to help – it was Donte Fuller. She wanted to take me to the hospital; I lived around the corner, so she took me home and my son took me to the hospital. I had a knot the size of a tennis ball on my forehead. Donte phoned and checked on me that evening and a few days later came by and brought me lovely flowers. Later I remembered that she said she attended St. Paul’s, so I looked it up online. It seemed to offer so much; I decided to visit. Barb Schubert (who has become my best friend) sat in front of me and turned around and gave me her bulletin. the voices of st. paul’s - 39 - The liturgy was similar to that of the Catholic Church, but the invitation to the Eucharist was very different. When it came time to exchange the peace, The Rev. Jean Denton came down the aisle, welcomed me and asked my name, and offered me the sign of the peace. The following Sunday when I returned, she remembered my name. I couldn’t believe it! After attending each Sunday for a period of time I decided it was time to make my attendance formal, so I took confirmation classes once a week. I had already been confirmed in Ireland; I was formally accepted into the Episcopal Church by the Bishop with other confirmands in the Diocese in Carmel.

In terms of St. Paul’s, I love it! I love all of the young families and their children attending – it’s wonderful to see – and we go to brunch after the Sunday service. I now have a very busy life and have made lots of friends at St. Paul’s and out in the community.

John Vernon Oaks We moved to the Indianapolis area in 1971 and immediately transferred our membership from Texas to the Episcopal Church near us. In 1972 we bought a home in the Broad Ripple area but continued going to our original Indy area church until 1980. By that time Beth and I had three children: Alexia, Anya and Ashley. For the first part of 1980 I worked in Europe with the intention of all of us moving there in the fall. While I was there and Beth was still in Indy, she discovered that it was much easier to get three young kids to St. Paul’s, which was ten times closer to home. Instead of all of us moving, my employer transferred me back to Indianapolis that fall. Beth suggested we transfer our membership to St. Paul’s because while I was gone she had found it to be a great place for the kids, plus they had a good music program.

Since we had always sung in the choir wherever we were, we approached Mr. Boles about joining the St. Paul’s choir. That was one of the best decisions we ever made. As the kids got old enough, they all went through the choir’s rites of passage and eventually all five of us were on the choir tours. Most importantly, with Mr. Boles’ leadership, the kids became grounded in the Episcopal Church and experienced the importance of discipline and teamwork.

I was in sales and had no fear of making phone calls, so I was asked to call St. Paul’s members that had not turned in their annual pledge form…year after year I did that! Beth became involved in several St. Paul’s ministries. We both became lectors, LEMs and intercessors. I was on th. We were spiritually fulfilled. I was asked to not only to make those follow-up stewardship phone calls, but to be on the stewardship committee. Eventually I was asked if I would be willing to be the co-chair. Ah…one thing led to another! As a result of someone asking me to get involved at St. Paul’s, I was, for many years, on the board of The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS), the Steward- ship Officer for the diocese of Indianapolis and, for ten years, was the stewardship staff person at St. Paul’s.

We believed that if we and the church were in a mutually supportive role, the church should remembered in our wills as well as in annual giving. After a long illness, Beth died. She never wavered in her commitment to Christ, to St. Paul’s church and the choir program. St. Paul’s never wavered in their commitment to caring for her. She always said that when she died she wanted to be in the columbarium so she could hear the choir. Well, her niche in the columbarium is number 150, the number of her favorite Psalm. That seems appropriate for the cel- ebration of St. Paul’s 150th. The music probably sounds sweeter to her because St. Paul’s choir was in her will.

Now, those three kids are scattered hither and yon, I’m remarried and live even further away from St. Paul’s than Beth and I were from the first Indianapolis church we belonged to. Several Episcopal churches are closer to home…but not closer to my heart.

Dona Walser After some personal loss and a crisis in my faith, I did what any Episcopalian does: I went to church. Having been confirmed as a teenager in the early 1960s when Bishop Paul Moore was then Dean of Christ Church Cathedral, Indianapolis, the footing was there. And I had not been away very long. St. Paul’s had an inviting appeal with a new look in 2010, and certainly Jean Denton was a draw. So I showed up for a few visits; after one of the early visits, someone dropped off a welcome packet and small loaf of bread. Of course I know now who that Christian was, and it was no small feat as I live out in the sticks.

Les Carpenter helped me complete some paperwork requesting membership at St. Paul’s. And there were more familiar faces and meeting more new people; St. Paul’s became home. Since then I have seen the passion and love from members and clergy as we all take this journey. The outreach and vision that is exhibited here is inspiring and challenging, and I am continually amazed at all the connections made and work done through the Holy Spirit.

Shelia L. Wolter The Doves project was one of my favorite projects at St. Paul’s. Cutting out the doves reminded me of cutting out paper dolls when I was a child, so I was happy to send in my fair share. The doves were breathtaking in the church. They seemed to move in the wind and the shadows on the floor were hypnotizing.

It was Pentecost Sunday, and I was driving home after mass. About half way home I spotted a white dove flying in the same direction to the right of my car. I was stunned because it was so white and flew parallel to the road for several miles. I looked and looked and it was not a pigeon or a heron or even a stray sea gull from Michigan. I thought, “It has to be a dove! And right on Pentecost Sunday! How magical!” I was home before I figured out it was probably a member of a dove release requisitioned by another church nearby and the dove was probably flying home. Still, it was magical for me. I love the magic of St. aul’s.P

Ace and Beth Yakey We joined St. Paul’s in December 1985 on the same Sunday as our younger daughter, Anna, was baptized. We had been contemplating switching churches ever since our daughter Abby was born two years earlier. Up until that point, we had been faithful church goers but had never really thought about what kind of church we want- ed to attend once we had children. We visited St. Paul’s off and on for nearly a year before determining that it met all our requirements. It had a liturgy similar to the Lutheran church we attended, clergy that we respected, an outstanding music program, a variety of social events that we enjoyed, and dozens of young families with children of all ages. We made the decision to become members and never looked back!

Little did we know in 1985 how much we would grow to love our church family. The more we got involved, the more our faith grew, and the stronger our relationships became with others thatSworshipped with us each week. Our daughters attended Sunday School, went to church and youth group activities, and were confirmed at St. Paul’s. However, the most important thing they did was join the St. Paul’s choir. We can’t ever adequate- ly thank Frank Boles and the other adults in the choir for all the hours of mentoring that they provided to our the voices of st. paul’s - 4 1 - children. We have no doubt that of all the activities our children were involved in during their school years (and they were involved in many), their experience in St. Paul’s choir was by far the most meaningful. Our daug hters have now married and moved away, but we don’t now and never have thought about leaving. We came to St. Paul’s in 1985 in hopes that its members and staff would give us and our children a sense of Christian community. We have not been disappointed.

Margaret Yergler My husband John and I were drawn to St. Paul’s by the music. We attended special events and services throughout the 1990s. By 2000, St. Paul’s was our church home. We took advantage of a variety of ministry and educational opportunities and built a community of friends.

In 2010 John was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and over the next three years the people of St. Paul’s surrounded us with support. The parish lifted us up in prayer. The clergy provided reassurance and hope for both of us, and invaluable advice for me, beautifully timed, answering important questions I hadn’t yet raised. Discussions ensued about the importance of health-related legal documents, how to say goodbye to a spouse of over 40 years, and eventually funeral planning. Our friends surrounded us with love.

Perhaps most surprising was the thoughtful assistance given by people we didn’t know as well, who had previously been acquaintances. One man volunteered to take our car in for servicing. Those who were going through the same journey approached John to listen and share understanding. Spouses who had experience with caregiving offered me the benefit of their knowledge. One nurse practitioner “adopted” me, and checked in weekly to ensure I was taking proper care of myself. As John’s condition worsened, all sorts of people volunteered to come sit with John so I could get out for a break or some rest. And I gradually noticed that widows of all ages were quietly gathering near to befriend me. In the months following John’s death, many people invited me to join their celebrations and establish new holiday traditions.

The music, worship and other opportunities at St. Paul’s remain very special. The community support and friendships, old and new, continue. Now I have the opportunity to assist others in my own way. So while John and I came to St. Paul’s for the music, I have stayed for the love.

Donna and Michael Zierdt Michael and I came to St. Paul’s about 10 years ago. We were initially drawn to the music, but in a short time we quickly made friends and have since just added more. We so ap- preciate the opportunities we have to reach out to people in service, in our own Church and outside.

Index Photo Credits: Michael Jack, David Scovel, Ryne Webb, NAME PAGE Erica Jeglum,Morgan, Barbara Emily Haberman Mihal26

Adams, Rick & Becky 4 Hass, Louise 14 Mermoud, Jay 25 Aiken, Nancy Miller 4 Hildebrandt, Rachel Genovese 11 Morris, Lila 27 Allen, Andrea 5 Hoard, John 14 Myers, Robin & Evelyn 27 Appel, Kate 5 Hotopp, Margaret 15 Nelson, Ruth 28 Arnett, Michael 5 Howett, Judith Lordan 21 Oaks, John Vernon 40 Beczkiewicz, Tom & Ania 6 Hudson, Sandy 15 Peck, Sally 28 Bernhardt, Rick & Carrie 6 Ising, Eleanor 15 Poole, Jim 28 Blackburn, Helen 7 Jack, Michael & Judi 15 Poole, Kathryn 28 Bowen, Susanne 7 Janzen, Gerry 16 Price, Derek & Lori 29 Bowes, Judith 7 Johns, Chris & Laura 16 Maddie & Benjamin Brown, Nancy 8 Johns, Madison 17 Reinhardt, Susan 29 Broz, Liam 8 Johnson, Bryan 17 Roberts, Millie 30 Broz, Melissa 8 Johnson, Jan 17 Roettger, Dick & Alice Ashby 31 Childs, Theo 8 Johnston, Bill 17 Rogers, Doug 32 Coates, Ted & Pam 8 Johnston, Susan 18 Rudesill, Helen 32 Davis, Alan 9 Kenyon, Jane 39 Ruebeck, Fred & Bev 33 Douglas, Pam 10 Kingdon, Marie 18 Schlifke, Bob & Sue 33 Droste, Annabel 10 Kneessy, Davy 18 Schollenberger, Abigail 33 Ellis, Matt & Karen 10 Kops, Linda 19 Scott, Fred & Katherine Tyler 33 Fanning, Colleen 10 Krauser, Larry & Joyce 19 Shupert, Ann 34 Furuness, David 10 Kroll, David 20 Sokhey, Melanie Costello 8 Gould, Isabella 11 Kubat, Louise 21 Stahl, Michael & Gayle 34 Giesek, Joanna 11 Lowe, Anne 22 Stanley, Mary 35 Ginolfi, Sarah 12 Lowe, Brandon 22 Stauffer, Eric, Marianne 35 Hale, Sue 12 Luessow, Kathy 23 & Daniel Haley, Rachel 12 MacDougall, Barbara 24 Stoner, Mark I & Becky 35 Hardy, Duke & Tammy 13 McCauley, Ray & Mary Kay 25 Strong, Ann 36 Sutherland, Mary 36 Sutton, Judy 36 Thompson, Joe & Ann 37 Thuesen, Joanna 37 Thuesen, Margaret 38 Thuesen, Peter 38 Tindall, Bill 39 Traynor, Ann 39 Walser, Dona 40 Wolter, Sheila 41 Yakey, Ace & Beth 41 Yergler, Margaret 42 Zierdt, Mike & Donna 42

the voices of st. paul’s - 43 - the voices of st. paul’s

Compiled and published for the 150th anniversary of stpaulsindy.org St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Indianapolis, September 2016.