November, 2015 • Volume 140, Issue No. 11 Curry installed as 27th Presiding Bishop and Episcopal Church primate Evangelism, racial reconciliation rooted in love will anchor work ahead, he says By Mary Frances Schjonberg by the more than 2,500 people in attendance. Curry, the former bishop of North Car - [Episcopal News Service – Washington, olina, promised to be a “faithful shepherd and D.C.] At the start of his All Saints Sunday instal - pastor” and, when asked by Jefferts Schori if they lation Eucharist in Washington National Cathe - would support Curry in his ministry, those at - dral, Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry tending roared in reply, “We will.” declared his bona fides to the church. With that and all the liturgical celebration After knocking on that followed, The the west doors in the Episcopal Church traditional manner at made history as it noon as the sun broke welcomed its first through the clouds person of color as and being admitted to presiding bishop the cathedral by the and primate. Very Rev. Gary Hall, “God has not Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry smiles outside Washington the cathedral’s dean, given up on God’s National Cathedral Nov. 1 after he was installed as The and Diocese of Wash - world,” Curry told Episcopal Church’s 27th presiding bishop and its primate. ington Bishop Mariann the congregation Photo: Mary Frances Schjonberg/Episcopal News Service. Budde, Curry was and the thousands Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry asked to “tell us who of people watching primatial staff that she had carried for the past nine knocks on the west doors of you are.” the service’s live webcast. years and then warmly embraced him as the congre - Washington National Cathedral “I am Michael Bruce “And God is not finished gation loudly applauded and shouted its approval. Nov. 1, signaling he wants to enter Curry, a child of God, bap - with The Episcopal Music for the service ranged from Anglican chant and be installed as The Episcopal tized in St. Simon of Cyrene Church yet. God has to drumming and singing by the Cedarville Band of Church’s 27th presiding bishop and Church, Maywood, Illinois, work for us to do.” Piscataway Indians of Maryland, who led the 155 bish - its primate. on May 3, 1953, and since Curry had officially ops of The Episcopal Church into the service. The that time I have sought to be become the 27th presid - Photo: Sharon Sheridan for Episcopal News Service. Cedarville Band also played before the Gospel was a faithful disciple of Jesus ing bishop and The Epis - read in Dakota by the Rev. Brandon Mauai, a deacon Christ,” he replied. copal Church’s chief from North Dakota and member of the Executive “Michael, Bishop in the pastor and primate at Council. Jamey Graves and Sandra Montes soloed on Inside this issue: Church of God, we have an - midnight. During the Wade in the Water after participants had renewed Notes & Quotes ...... 2 ticipated your arrival with Some of the 155 bishops of The Episcopal Church three-hour service, he their baptismal covenant and Curry, Jefferts Schori great joy,” 26th Presiding was seated in the cathe - Truckin' ...... 3 process into Washington National Cathedral Nov. 1 and others asperged the congregation. By the time Bishop Katharine Jefferts at the start of the Eucharist that included the dral (Washington Na - they reached the altar, the congregation was on its Diocesan Calendar ...... 11 Schori told him. installation of Michael B. Curry as The Episcopal tional Cathedral has been feet singing along. “In the Name of Christ, the presiding bishop’s Grace House Church’s 27th presiding bishop and its primate. we greet you,” she added, seat since 1941). Jefferts Curry celebrates 20 years ...... 12 and the greeting was echoed Photo: Danielle Thomas (c) 2015 Washington National Cathedral. Schori then gave him the Continued on page 7 Nominations requested for diocesan elected positions [MSE] Elections for various diocesan positions will take place Stephen Kidd, St. Mark’s, Gulfport; and the Rev. Seth Walley, St. Also to be elected to the Standing Committee is one presbyter at the 189th Annual Council to be held on the Coast, January 29-31, James’, Jackson. For the lay elections, Ms. Judy Barnes, St. Alexis, and one lay person to serve full terms of four years. This committee 2016. The office of Treasurer is elected for a one-year term and may Jackson; and Mr. Dick Phillips, St. Peter’s By-the-Lake, Brandon, is composed of four presbyters and four confirmed adult lay com - be re-elected to office. Mr. Fred Page, All Saints’, Tupelo is cur - having served full terms, rotate off the Executive Committee and municants, each of whom is elected for a four-year term. The term rently serving as Treasurer. are not eligible for re-election. The following lay persons remain on of Mr. Danny Meadors, St. Patrick’s, Long Beach, is expiring and he The Annual Council will also elect members to the Diocesan the Executive Committee: Mr. Michael Chew, St. Peter’s By-the- is not eligible for re-election. Those members remaining are: the Executive Committee. Two clergy and two lay members will be Lake, Brandon; Mr. Steve McNair, Trinity Church, Pass Christian; Rev. Ann Fraser, St. Paul’s, Corinth; the Rev. Walton Jones, Trinity elected to a full three year term and one cleric will be elected to a Mrs. Goldia Revies, St. Christopher’s, Jackson; and Mrs. Chellie Church, Natchez; the Rev. Luther Ott, St. Mark’s, Jackson; Mrs. Alice one-year unexpired term. The Rev. Gates Elliott, Diocesan Office, Revord, St. Columb’s, Ridgeland. The following persons were ap - Perry, St. James’, Jackson; Dr. Ed Sisson, St. Peter’s, Oxford; and Jackson; and the Rev. Chris Robinson, St. Peter’s, Oxford (ECOM), pointed by the bishop, served a one-year term and are eligible for Mr. Lee Davis Thames, Holy Trinity, Vicksburg. having served a full term are not eligible for re-election. The mem - election to a three year term: the Rev. Mary Berry, St. Matthew’s, bers of the clergy remaining on the Executive Committee are: the Kosciusko; Mr. Tom Shellnut, Trinity Church, Pass Christian; and Nominations Rev. Canon Jody Burnett, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Jackson; the Rev. Mr. Reggie Sims, Chapel of the Cross, Madison. Continued on page 5 OUR DIOCESE
The homeless in the community are the focus with ‘all the wrong people.’ If we love only those for outreach this quarter at St. Mark’s/Gulfport . who love us, what credit is it to us?” One of their projects is providing needed items for Keith Rushing, St. John’s/Laurel : “God tells the Women’s Center for Nonviolence. To that us that our sharing what he has given us leads us end, they are collecting diapers and pull-ups, baby to new levels of letting go and great happiness. wipes, toilet paper, shampoo, towels, hand towels, Happiness is not made by what we own. It is and donations. made by what we share with those less fortunate St. Stephen’s/Columbia is in the final clean- than us.” Notes from around the diocese: adults dedicated to serving others by offering up and touch-up phase of their sacristy renova - The Rev. Marian Fortner, Trinity/Hatties - All Saints/Jackson is once again collecting transportation, minor home repairs, health screen - tion. Everything will soon be back in place. burg : “. . . when we remember Jesus at the altar, items for the men and women at Central Missis - ings, and education opportunities. The Saint Nicholas Treasure Chest, a ministry when we do that act of faith in remembrance of sippi Correctional facility for a Christmas bag. Members of Redeemer/Brookhaven are in - for children sponsored by All Saints/Grenada for him , it is a compelling moment, joining heaven to This is a ministry coordinated by the chaplains de - vited to bring their greenery and join in making the past 30 years, is again collecting donations, earth, earth to heaven, in timeless suspension of partment at CMCF. Clear shampoo, clear deodor - Advent wreaths on Sunday, November 29th. Chil - gifts, and gift cards for the Christmas season. For past, present, and future. We call the risen Christ ant, white crew socks, and hard candy are placed dren and adults will assemble during chapel and Christmas 2014, more than 800 children in the into our midst in a most profound way to be in zip lock bags. Their goal is to collect enough coffee hour time. Grenada area between the ages of three and among us, to be with us, to be in us.” items this year to give a Christmas bag to approxi - Ascension/Hattiesburg will have a stained eleven benefited from this ministry. mately 3,500 residents of the facility. glass sale on Sunday, December 6th in the parish St. Paul’s/Meridian has chosen to support Reminder : News for Notes & Quotes can be The Christmas Bazaar & Cookie Walk at St. hall, and the flower guild is conducting their their homeless community through L.O.V.E.’s mailed to Suzanne Cox, c/o Saint Pierre’s John’s/Ocean Springs is set for Saturday, Decem - annual poinsettia sale, taking orders beginning Kitchen for this year’s Christmas outreach project. Episcopal Church, 4412 Gautier-Vancleave Road, ber 5th. The bazaar will offer preserves, pickles, November 29th On Wednesday, November 18th, members will Gautier, MS 39553-4807 or e-mailed to cookies, baked goods, and Christmas decorations, Crafters at St. Columb’s/Ridgeland are in - gather after the parish supper to assemble gifts [email protected]. as well as wreaths, poinsettias, plants, and books. vited to sell their wares at an alternative gift mar - consisting of hats, gloves, scarves, blankets, fanny Featured are a Victorian tea and entertainment by ket on Wednesday, November 11th, in place of packs, and thermoses. They children’s groups. The proceeds will benefit out - traditional Wednesday programming. Ten percent will also be making holiday reach ministries at St. John’s. of the sales from each vendor will go to St. cards of encouragement and On Thursday, December 3rd, St. John’s will Columb’s. prayer to accompany the gifts. host an organ recital with Dr. Janet Hamilton, who St. Philip’s/Jackson is offering four sessions The first youth-led in - is on the organ faculty at SE Indiana University. entitled Conversations About Death . Using the fa - structed Eucharist at St. The recital will begin with a brief evening prayer miliar words of the Book of Common Prayer, par - Stephen’s/Indianola took and be followed by a dessert reception. Offerings ticipants will have time and space to tell their own place on Sunday, November received at the recital will benefit St. John’s local stories. The offering will conclude with an in- 8th. Members were encour - charities. depth look at what the Book of Common Prayer aged to invite a friend or Resurrection/Starkville is participating tells us about death, and for those who are inter - neighbor who might enjoy hav - again in the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. ested, there will be an opportunity to discuss ing a chance to learn more Volunteers will be ringing the bell in one-hour plans for their own funerals. about our spiritual practices. shifts on Monday, November 30th. The Annual ECW Greenery Sale at St. Creator/Clinton is assem - The Annual Harvest Bazaar at St. Peter’s/Oxford is underway until November 8th. bling Christmas packages to be James’/Greenville is set for Thursday, November Profits are donated to outreach projects. distributed on Christmas 19th. Their biggest fund raiser of the year will also St. Timothy’s/Southaven is hosting a men’s morning to the homeless men feature a silent auction. retreat at Gray Center the weekend before Thanks - staying at the Billy Brumfield All Saints’/Tupelo will host meetings for giving. There will be a meet-and-greet fellowship Shelter. Items needed are Shepherd’s Center of Greater Tupelo on meetings on Friday, November 20th, and a day of relaxation stocking caps, gloves, and on Thursday, November 19th, and Thursday, De - on Saturday, November 21st, with departure warm socks. On Sunday, De - cember 17th. Shepherd’s Center is a group of scheduled for Sunday morning, November 22nd. cember 20th, they will gather in the parish hall to assemble the packages to be delivered on Christmas Eve. Continually published for 139 years in the Diocese of Mississippi The annual ECW Turkey Dinner fund-raiser at Holy Trinity/Vicksburg will take place on Thursday, November 19th. Members can help de - fray the expenses of this event by donating $20 for a turkey or $50 for a new table. Official news organ of the Bishop and the Diocese of Mississippi St. Pierre’s/Gautier re - 118 N. Congress Street - P.O. Box 23107 cently acquired a large shed Jackson, Mississippi 39225-3107 courtesy of their ECW. The plan is to use the shed to store and display items sold to raise The Rt. Rev. Brian R. Seage funds for various projects. Tenth Bishop of Mississippi Quotes this month: The Rev. Scott Lenoir The Very Rev. J. Lee Win - Editor ter, Resurrection/Starkville : “Unity is easy when we are all The Mississippi Episcopalian (USPS 024755) is published monthly by the Episcopal Diocese of of like mind . . . How we act to - Mississippi, 118 N. Congress St., Jackson, MS 39201. Periodical postage paid at Jackson, MS. ward those who see things dif - POSTMASTER: Send change of address to the Mississippi Episcopalian, P.O. Box 23107, Jack - ferently and even enemies may son, MS 39225-3107. In giving changes of address send the old address as well as the new. be more of a telling test of our We cannot be responsible for the return of manuscripts or photographs. faith in the one who hung out
2 The Mississippi Episcopalian November 2015 ORDINARY CONCERNS
came to a close with BBQ, music, and a special School to pick up Katie and Betsy. In the evening service at the close of the evening. Today was our we enjoyed an awesome meal at the Strawberry 20th wedding anniversary – we will celebrate as a Cafe with good friends. couple next week! October 21 — Early morning workout. In the Truckin’ October 15 — Clergy Conference came to a morning, I kept a conference call with Cathedral October 1 — I got to the of - of tasks. Later in the close with some discussions about diocesan mat - Consultants. This consulting firm has been ex - fice a little earlier than usual and morning, I visited the ters. We officially closed with a celebration of the tremely helpful to me in establishing and main - tried to finish my journal for Rev. Gene Bennett who Holy Eucharist and renewal of ordination vows. I taining clarity and direction. I am very grateful for September. Later in the morn - is hospitalized at St. Do - am so thankful for all the efforts that made this a their efforts. In the early afternoon, I met with the Bishop Brian Seage ing, I offered pastoral care and minic’s. In the afternoon, great conference. Special thanks to Kathryn who trustees of the diocese. I left a little early and counsel to one of our clergy. At I had an annual consulta - made this a success for so many years. I took the turned the meeting over to the vice president, lunch, I met with the Mississippi tion with the Rev. Giulianna Gray, rector at St. rest of the day off! Holmes Adams in order to drive to New Orleans Religious Leadership Conference Stephen’s in Indianola. I finished the day with two October 16, 2015 — Early morning workout. for an anniversary supper with Kyle prior to the (MRLC). The coalition of faith conference calls. First meeting of the day was with Congressman Province IV Bishops and Chancellors meeting leaders from all traditions has been an important October 9 — Early morning workout. After re - Bennie Thompson. There wasn’t an agenda, just which starts tomorrow. We enjoyed a great meal at religious presence for many years. We spoke about turning email and phone calls, the Allin House discussion and coffee. I really appreciated his time Bayona’s. a number of issues including Initiative 42. staff and I went to Stewpot to assist with the lunch and his efforts on behalf of our state. Over lunch, I October 22 — Kyle and I toured the WW2 mu - October 2 — Early morning workout. Today service. I’m grateful for this opportunity to help attended a sneak peek at the Mississippi Civil seum in the morning. My dad is a veteran of the was full of meetings and phone meetings. One of and for the ministry of Stewpot and its employees. Rights Museum. The museum is still far from fin - campaign in Europe, while Kyle’s grandfather the phone calls was related to an attempt to digi - After serving lunch, the staff and I enjoyed lunch ished but I was able to begin to see what it will served in the Pacific theatre. It was a meaningful tize some of the service bulletins in one of our at La Finestra. Unfortunately, La Finestra is moving look like. It’s gonna be great. In the afternoon, I morning. After lunch, Kyle left for Jackson on Am - larger churches. Fear not! The Diocese of Missis - from its current location (next door to Allin caught up on stuff in the office and then went trak, while I attended the opening sessions of the sippi will not discontinue the use of paper but we house). Many thanks to Tom Ramsay for feeding home a little early. Bishops and Chancellors Conference. In the are seeking ways to use less. Later in the morning, me so many delicious meals! October 17 — In the morning, I attended the evening, I dined with other conference attendees I spent time managing details associated with October 10 — There’s a big invitational swim South State swim meet in Laurel. The team from at the Palace Cafe. Our host was the Rev. John Kel - Clergy Conference. Had an awesome lunch with a meet for St. Andrew's School in the morning. I’m St. Andrew’s School did exceptionally well! I logg former rector at Incarnation, West Point. good friend. I had several meetings in the after - very grateful that the Commission on Ministry was headed home after the meet in order to watch October 23 — I attended the morning ses - noon including catching up with Peter Malual willing to meet without me so I could be in atten - USC play Notre Dame. My heart was broken when sions of the conference before my early departure about his recent trip to Sudan. dance at my daughters meet! Notre Dame came back to win with 17 unan - for family obligations in Jackson. I arrived home in October 3 — Woke up to a very rare occur - October 11 — Visitation at St. Francis in swered points in the 4th quarter! time to change my clothes and go to St. Andrew’s rence – nothing on the calendar. I checked twice Philadelphia. In the service, I was assisted by the October 18 — In the morning, I had visitation School for the introduction of the homecoming to be sure. After walking the dog and running a Rev. Charlie Deaton. We confirmed three and re - at St. Luke’s in Brandon where I was assisted by court of which Katie was part. couple errands I settled into “Lagniappe” and ceived two. I met with vestry before the service their new priest-in-charge the Rev. Chuck Culpep - October 24 — Nothing. I repeat nothing was watched an Alabama football game while switching and dined with the parish after the service. It was per. I enjoyed a great reception and fellowship fol - on my calendar for the morning and afternoon back and forth to the Angels’ game. It was awe - a great time! On the way back, I called my mom to some. In the evening, Kyle and I had supper out wish her a happy birthday. In the evening, Betsy with friends. and I resumed our Sunday night tradition of October 4 — I left early in the morning for my watching the Walking Dead – it was the season visitation at All Saints’, Grenada. While there I had premiere. breakfast with the vestry, taught a Sunday school October 12 — Early morning workout. After class, preached, and presided at the principal serv - workout, I headed to Lake Caroline for the first of - ice. In the service, we confirmed three and re - ficial activity of Clergy Conference, the Bishop’s ceived three more. I was assisted in the liturgy by Open Golf Classic. I changed the format to a their rector, the Rev. Elizabeth Wheatley-Jones. Florida Scramble in order to accommodate groups From Grenada, I drove to Nativity Church in of five when necessary. My team, which consisted Greenwood to bless their new columbarium and of the Revs. Don Chancellor, David Faulkner, Katie garden. It’s a beautiful addition. Bradshaw, and Morris Thompson, were the win - October 5 — Early morning swim. Later in the ners! Best hole of the day was 15, a long par 5 that morning, I picked up our extended tax return, we reached in 2, thanks to an awesome drive by Ugh! I know, I know, “Render to Caesar ...” Katie and a 215 yard 3 wood into the green by October 6 — I got going early for a breakfast Don. After golf, we enjoyed the bishop’s banquet meeting with the canons and chancellor. Our in - and evening liturgy with meditation by our chap - coming canon for administration and finance, the lain, the Rev. Canon Pamela Snare, from the Dio - Rev. Brian Ponder, joined us. I left the meeting cese of Tennessee. I am grateful for all the efforts Just in case you missed it: the bishop’s selfie at Washington Cathedral. early for a doctor’s appointment. He gave me a big that made this such a great evening. shot in my sore foot, ouch! Later in the morning, I October 13 — On the first full day of the con - had an annual consultation with the Very Rev. Bil - ference, I attended early morning circuit training lowing the service. After a short respite at home, I hours! In the evening, I watched USC knock off lie Abraham from St. Alban’s in Bovina. In the af - with one of our guests, Peter K, from the Church went to St. Mark’s in Raymond where I confirmed #3 Utah! Fight On! ternoon, I worked on a presentation for Chapel of Pension Group. The rest of the day’s program was two and received another. Following the service, I October 25 — Visitation at Annunciation in the Cross. I left a little early in order to pick up on health and wellness. Throughout the day, we blessed a beautiful new prayer garden and at - Perkinston. This parish is a joint ministry of the Katie and Betsy from school. created intentional times for prayer and worship. tended a reception at the home of the senior war - Evangelical Lutheran Church and our Episcopal October 7 — Early morning workout. Today October 14 — I drove into Jackson for my den. Church. It was a really nice visit where I confirmed was full with five meetings starting at 9am and normal early morning workout with the Catfish October 19 — Early morning workout. I en - one and reaffirmed five! Their pastor, the Rev. ending in the late afternoon. The meetings cov - Masters. I got back to Gray Center around 7:45 joyed some sabbath time but did take a moment to John David Simpson, and the parish gave me a ered a variety of subjects and included an annual and went straight to breakfast. The participants make a couple pastoral calls. In the evening, Betsy purple zuchetto as a gift! Thanks! consultation with the Rev. Deborah Hanson. After have Wednesday morning off, but the bishop is re - and I watched the Walking Dead which we DVR’d October 26 — Morning workout. Sabbath day. finishing at the office, I drove to Chapel of the ally busy! I had meetings with clergy from 8:30 the night before. Betsy and I watched the DVR’d Walking Dead Cross in Madison to lead their Wednesday night until 1:00. We started the program again at 1:15 October 20 — This was a busy day in the of - from the previous night – I’m saddened by one of forum on movies and literature. I used the Shaw - and shifted to an emphasis on stewardship. This fice! Staff meetings in the morning and check-in. the developments, but – I don’t think he’s dead. shank Redemption for my focus and showed sev - was led by the Rev. JR Lander from The Episcopal At lunch, the standing committee arrived for our eral parts of the film while leading discussion. Network on Stewardship. JR is also a Jacksonian regular meeting. In the afternoon, I tried to catch Truckin’ October 8 — Spent my morning with a variety and former member of the cathedral. The day up on details before heading to St. Andrew’s Continued on page 8
November 2015 The Mississippi Episcopalian 3 OUR DIOCESE
Presiding Bishop Curry asperging the people during the installation service. Brian Seage/Photo
Raphielle Ashford (Virginia Seminary) met up with the bishop, the Rev. Kyle Seage and the Very Rev. Bruce McMil - lan outside Washington Cathedral at the presiding bishop’s installation. Presiding Bishop Curry poses with the Rev. Kyle Seage, rector of St. Philip’s/Jackson.
Brian Seage/Photo
4 The Mississippi Episcopalian November 2015 WORLDWIDE All eyes on bishops’ benches in House of Lords as first woman takes seat [Anglican Communion News Service] The first woman to sit as a bishop in the and the bishop of London. The Royal Writ from Queen Elizabeth II was read before U.K. parliament has taken her seat. Bishops have played a formal part in the U.K. Treweek made the oath of allegiance. parliament since before the origins of democracy in the country. Initially as advisers The historic significance of the occasion was symbolized by a rare round of ap - to the Monarch, Anglican bishops now occupy 26 seats in the upper house of Par - plause from other members of the House of Lords as Treweek made her way to the liament, the House of Lords. Bishops’ Benches. Traditionally, new Peers are introduced and sworn in with si - Five of these are reserved for the archbishops of Canterbury and York, and the lence; apart from a brief murmur of cheer as the new Peer shakes the hand of the bishops of London, Durham and Winchester. The remaining 21 places are usually Lords’ Speaker. taken by the longest serving diocesan bishops; but following the passage of legisla - The 26 bishops in the House of Lords rarely attend at the same time. A duty tion to allow women to be appointed as bishops, the law was changed to provide bishop’s rota ensures that at least one bishop is in attendance. Other ecclesiastical that if a vacancy occurs in the 21 places within the next 10 years, female diocesan members of the House of Lords will take part in debates on matters of particular in - bishops will take precedence over male bishops. terest or expertise. Wearing convocation robes, the Rt. Rev. Rachel Treweek, bishop of Glouces - ter, was introduced to the House of Lords Oct. 26 by the archbishop of Canterbury Bishop Rachel Treweek ACN/Photo Porvoo primates call for prayers for solution to refugee crisis
[Anglican Communion News Service] The primates and pre - people walk long distances to cross into Europe because they do faced by political leaders as they seek to find a solution to the crisis; siding bishops of the Porvoo Communion of Churches have called not have any other choice; also in parts of Europe, for example, and they called for prayers for political leaders “and for those who for prayers for political leaders, recognizing the “pressure” they houses have been set alight, so that refugees do not find a home; resist the destructive calls of extremist groups that reject all sup - face in trying to reach a solution to the refugee crisis. The church and there is a rising anxiety in some parts of Europe that democ - port for the migrant stranger and those seeking refuge.” leaders made the call in a communiqué issued after their biennial racy is being eroded by intimidation towards strangers seeking “The Scottish Episcopal Church is honored to host the meet - meeting this week in Edinburgh as guests of the Scottish Episcopal refuge and security. . . ing of the primates of the churches of the Porvoo Communion,” Church. The Porvoo Communion brings together Anglican and “We should not stand back and remain silent, but must both Bishop David Chillingworth, primus of the Scottish Episcopal Lutheran churches from northern Europe to “share a common life speak and act, remembering the words of Jesus; ‘For I was hungry Church, said. “We have been enthusiastic members of the Porvoo in mission and service.” and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to Communion from the beginning of its life and we look forward to a The primates and presiding bishops met under the theme of drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me’ (Matt. 25:35).” strengthening of relationships during our meeting this week.” “Prayer, Spirituality and Pilgrimage,” and discussed issues ranging The leaders also expressed their unanimous concern and The Porvoo primates and presiding bishops will next meet from national identity to the refugee crisis. prayers for Christians and other minority groups threatened by ex - when they gather as guests of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in On refugees, the primates said in their communiqué, that “on tinction in the Middle East. Lithuania in October 2017. a daily basis people risk their lives to cross the Mediterranean Sea; The primates and presiding bishops recognized the pressure
Nominations Saints, Grenada, served as assistant secretary and is eligible for elec - Gadow, St. Columb’s, Ridgeland; Mr. Collier Graham, St. James’, Continued from page 1 tion to a full term. Council will elect one trustee to serve a four- Jackson; the Rev. Carol Mead, St. Peter’s By-the-Lake, Brandon; and Trustees of the Diocese, by state charter, is the Diocesan offi - year term. the Rev. Paul Stephen’s, All Saints’, Tupelo. cial corporation. “The Bishop of the Diocese shall, ex officio, be the Trustees of the University of the South serve staggered three- Each person nominated must have given his or her prior con - President of said Corporation. The members composing said Cor - year terms. The Sewanee Trustees are composed of one cleric and sent to serve in the position to which he or she is nominated. The poration shall be five in number, all of whom shall be confirmed two lay members. At Council we will elect one lay member. Mr. nomination form must be received by the Secretary of the Diocese, adult lay communicants and four of whom shall serve for a four Scott Davis, St. Patrick’s, Long Beach serves in this position and is P.O. Box 23107, Jackson, MS 39225-3107, no later than December year term or until their successors are elected, but no more than eligible for re-election. The terms of the Rev. David Elliott, III, St. 15, 2015, in order to be printed in the Council edition of The Mis - three consecutive terms. Four of said Trustees shall be elected by Andrew’s, Jackson; and Mrs. Whitney Robinson, St. Peter’s, Oxford sissippi Episcopalian and included in packets for Council dele - the Diocesan Council and the fifth Trustee shall be appointed by will continue. gates. The nomination form can be found on the website of the the Bishop for a one year term, for no more than four consecutive Members of the Disciplinary Board will be elected for a three- Diocese of Mississippi (http://annualcouncil.dioms.org) or by call - appointed terms.” The elected term of Mr. Mike Strojny, St. Mark’s, year term. Those having served a full term on the Disciplinary ing the diocesan office (601-948-5954). The nominees are asked to Gulfport, expires and he is not eligible for re-election. The elected Board and are eligible for re-election are: Dr. Leigh Jensen Craw - also submit a black-and-white (high resolution) headshot photo - trustees remaining in office are Mr. Holmes Adams, St. Andrew’s, ford, Resurrection, Starkville; the Rev. Scott Lenoir, Gautier; the graph for publication to Kathryn McCormick at Jackson; Mr. John Davis, St. Paul’s, Columbus; and Mrs. Lynn Jenk - Rev. Elizabeth Wheatley Jones, Grenada; and Mr. John Sneed, St. [email protected]. ins, St. Peter’s by the Lake, Brandon. Mr. Van Duncan, St. James’, James’, Jackson. Those remaining on the Disciplinary Board are: Jackson served a one-year appointed term. Mr. Filo Coasts, All the Rev. Betsy Baumgarten, St. Patrick’s, Long Beach; Mrs. Jan
November 2015 The Mississippi Episcopalian 5 OUR DIOCESE St. Paul’s pays off note early By Susan Adams
The congregation of St. Paul’s/Corinth marked the early repayment of the church’s mortgage with a Burn-the-Note Celebration and chili supper October 31. Members and friends, many in costumes, en - joyed games, good food and fellowship. Firemen from the station next door to St. Paul’s brought a fire truck for children to tour and stayed for chili. A planned bonfire to burn a mountain of downed limbs and trees from last winter’s ice storm was postponed due to rain, but the note-burning went on in a fire pit at the front entry of the church. Glennan Grady, chairman of the building committee when the church was planned and built in 2001, had the honor of throwing the note on the fire. as building committee member Francis Criss, the Rev. Ann Fraser and others gathered around to celebrate.
The Rev. Deacon Frank Spencer talks about Stewpot Community Ministries. Lisa Catledge/Photo Jackson area youth and helping the homeless
By Judy Barnes
On a Sunday afternoon in mid-September around 50 youth and adults from St. Alexis, St. An - drew’s, St. James, St. Mark’s and St. Philip’s gathered at St. Alexis in Jackson to learn about the homeless among us and resources to help them. They heard about Stewpot Community Services’ shelters and other ministries for the homeless and people in need from the Rev. Frank Spencer, executive director of Stewpot. He invited them to come help serve lunch sometime or assist in other ways. St. Alexis’ vicar, the Rev. Chuck Culpepper, and its EYC youth shared how their outreach programs Glennan Grady (left) tosses parish’s note on a fire as building committee member, Francis Criss, the work to help the homeless in downtown Jackson. They have a monthly sandwich ministry, winter coat Rev. Ann Fraser and others gathered at a celebration on All Hallow’s Eve. drive and HUGS drive (hats, underwear, gloves and socks) and most recently added Buddy Bags. These Susan Adams/Photo are nylon backpacks filled with bottled water, non-perishable foods, first aid and personal care items. Not only did the young people in attendance pack Buddy Bags, they also played games, sang and worshiped and enjoyed a meal together. The bags were blessed and each group took bags to hand out as opportunities present themselves. Everyone came as strangers but went away refreshed and inspired. The EYC leaders and parents from the various churches expressed a desire to have more Central Convocation youth events like this, proclaiming this one a lot of fun and a great success.
Judy Barnes is on the mission committee of St. Alexis/Jackson.
Church of the Redeemer/Greenville continues its relationship with Armstrong Elementary School as one of its adopters. Redeemer is donating supplies to the Profound and Severe Special Education Class. Pictured is Mrs. Betty Johnson, Armstrong’s principal, receiving supplies from Redeemer Central Convocation youth form a Buddy Bag assembly line. Lisa Catledge/Photo communicant, Barbara Moton (left). Redeemer is also in the process of collecting paper and pencils to donate to the after-school tutoring program. Spiller/Photo
6 The Mississippi Episcopalian November 2015 INSTALLATION OF PRESIDING BISHOP
Curry Continued from page 1 The St. Thomas Gospel Choir from the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Philadelphia had the congre - gation clapping and swaying. And when the Cathedral Choir of Men and Girls sang an arrangement of The Battle Hymn of the Republic as the of - fertory anthem, congregation members stood and joined in the final chorus, many of them with tears in their eyes. Special prayers were said during the service by representatives of the Anglican Communion, ecumenical and interreligious com - munities, including the Most Rev. Fred Hiltz, primate of the Angli - can Church of Canada; Mohamed Elsanousi, Islamic Society of North America; Rabbi Steve Gutow, Jewish Council for Public Af - fairs; and the Rev. Elizabeth Miller, president of the Provincial Eld - ers’ Conference of the Moravian Church. Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry and wife, Sharon, Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry calls on Episcopalians to become After Anita Parrott George, another Executive Council mem - greet the congregation at Washington National evangelists and reconcilers during his Nov. 1 sermon at Washington ber, read the Old Testament reading (Isaiah 11:1-9) in English, Fer - Cathedral on November 1, after his installation. National Cathedral just after he was installed as The Episcopal Church’s 27th nanda Sarahi read the New Testament selection (Revelation Photo: Danielle Thomas (c) 2015 Washington National Cathedral presiding bishop and its primate. Photo: Mary Frances Schjonberg/Episcopal News Service. 21:1-6a) in Spanish. And at the beginning of the Great Thanksgiv - ing, Curry said the sursum corda (lift up your hearts) in Spanish. Way of Jesus will always turn our worlds and the world upside Curry’s approximately 37-minute animated sermon drew ap - down, which is really turning it right side up!” plause, laughter and shouts of approval from the congregation. He “At home and in the church, do unto others as you would swept his arms wide over the crowd at times, raised his hands and have them do to you. That will turn things upside down,” Curry shouted, lowered his voice and brought his hands close together at said. “In the boardrooms of the corporate world, in the classrooms other times to make his points. of the academic world, in the factories, on the streets, in the halls The presiding bishop continued his call for the church and its of legislatures and councils of government, in the courts of the members to join the Jesus Movement, tracing the evidence of the land, in the councils of the nations, wherever human beings are, do movement through biblical and societal history. “What was true in unto others as you would have them do unto you.” the first century and true in the 19th century is equally and more Curry returned again and again in his sermon to evangelism profound in this new 21st century,” he said. and reconciliation, especially racial reconciliation, calling it “some Jesus himself continued a movement begun by John the Bap - of the most difficult work possible.” tist and took it to a new level, Curry said. “John was part of the “But don’t worry,” he said. “We can do it. The Holy Spirit has movement born out of prophets like Amos and Isaiah and Jere - done this work before in The Episcopal Church. And it can be done miah. And prophetic movement was rooted in Moses, who went up again for a new day.” to the mountaintop,” he said. “Jesus crystalized and catalyzed the He called for an evangelism that is “genuine and authentic to movement that was serving God’s mission in this world. God has a us as Episcopalians, not a way that imitates or judges anyone else” passionate dream for this world.” and that is “about helping others find their way to a relationship The dream involves change, the presiding bishop said. “The with God without our trying to control the outcome.” Such evan - gelism, he said, ought to involve both shar - ing the faith that is in us and listening to and learning from others’ experiences. Curry said that racial reconciliation is “just the beginning for the hard and holy work of real reconciliation that realizes jus - tice across all the borders and boundaries that divide the human family of God.” The presiding bishop acknowledged that such work is “difficult work, but we can Dr. Anita Parrot George, a member of the Episcopal Church do it. It’s about listening and sharing. It’s Executive Council, and a communicate of Resurrection/Starkville, about God.” read the first lesson at the installation. And, Curry said, “in this work of recon - Photo: Mary Frances Schjonberg/Episcopal News Service. ciliation we can join hands with others. “It is as the Jesus Movement, following ing, “We’ve been working with each other a bit over the summer Jesus’ way, that we join hands with brothers and I look forward to working together with her in the years to and sisters of different Christian communi - come.” Presiding Bishop-elect Michael B. Curry elevates the bread and wine during the Oct. ties, with brothers and sisters of other faith He then thanked Richard Schori, Jefferts Schori’s husband, 31 Vigil Celebration offered by the Union of Black Episcopalians at the D.C. Armory and religious traditions, and with brothers and then turned to the 26th presiding bishop herself. “In a time on the eve of his installation as the 27th presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church and sisters who may be atheist or agnostic or when there is often debate and genuine consternation as to and its primate. Joining him at the altar, from left, are the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, just on a journey, but who long for a better whether or not courageous, effective leadership is even possible, House of Deputies president; the Rev. Canon Michael Buerkel Hunn, soon-to-be world where children do not starve and we can say to the world that we have had a leader and her name is Canon to the Presiding Bishop for Ministry Within The Episcopal Church; the Rev. where there is, as the old spiritual says, Katharine Jefferts Schori,” Curry said to applause and a standing Guy Leemhuis, a deacon in the Diocese of Los Angeles who served as the presiding ‘plenty good room for all of God’s chil- ovation from the congregation. bishop’s chaplain during the service; Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori; the dren,’ ” Curry said. The House of Bishops elected Curry June 27 during General Rev. Christine L. McCloud, a deacon in the Diocese of Newark who served as Curry’s At the beginning of his sermon, the Convention on the first ballot. It was a landslide; he received 121 chaplain during the service; the Rev. Diane Peterson, a deacon in the Diocese of new presiding bishop took a few moments votes of a total 174 cast. The number of votes needed for election Connecticut who served as the deacon of the Mass; Former Diocese of Central Penn - for “personal privilege.” He first told the was 89. It was the first time the bishops had elected a presiding sylvania Bishop Nathan Baxter, UBE honorary national president; and the Rev. church that he looks forward to working bishop on the first ballot. Canon Sandye Wilson, who preached during the service. with the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings in her role Curry Photo: Mary Frances Schjonberg/Episcopal News Service. as president of the House of Deputies, say - Continued on page 9
November 2015 The Mississippi Episcopalian 7 OUR DIOCESE Advent blessings – what can you put in someone else’s stocking?
By Cathy Halford who have missed out on formal education can learn vocational skills. Her story shows how literacy programs for adults can noticeably improve the skills and health This past week, I sat down and compiled a list of what of people in isolated communities like these where most families never reach the level of secondary God has given me. Needless to say, there was and will education. never be enough paper to complete that list. Certainly I complain about not having what I want.. However, when it Please go online to episcopalrelief.org to learn more about comes to things I need, I need nothing! I have food, shelter, Episcopal how you can help. The Gifts for Life catalog is available to assist clothes, health care, education, safety, and the freedom to im - you in making a donation to many areas that will make a differ - prove my life in whatever way I choose. What gives meaning to all of Relief & Development ence in the lives of so many of God’s children. the above is my faith in God from whom all my blessings flow, a faith that directs me to reach out to others who don’t have what they need. Healing a hurting world You might want to sit down this week and make a list of One way that you and I can reach out to others is through Episco - what you need and what you want. I don’t think you will be sur - pal Relief & Development. Its mission statement describes this arm of the Church as “the compassion - prised that God has already blessed you! ate response of The Episcopal Church to human suffering in the world. Hearing God’s call to seek and serve Christ in all persons and to respect the dignity of every human being, Episcopal Relief & Develop - Episcopal Relief & Development’s mandate comes from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25: ment serves to bring together the generosity of Episcopalians and others with the needs of the world.” Lord, when was it that We saw you hungry and gave you food? The following are but a few ways in which Episcopal Relief & Development is asking for your help: We saw you thirsty and gave you something to drink? Disaster Risk Reduction — Regardless of where you live in the world, there is always going to be We saw you a stranger and welcomed you? a disaster of some kind. In order to lessen the impact of a disaster, planning ahead helps to decrease We saw you sick and took care of you? the suffering and damage, especially in places where people already live in poverty and may lose the We saw you in prison and visited you? few resources that they possess. As a means of helping, Episcopal Relief & Development has partnered ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it with the Episcopal/Anglican Church to better prepare for and respond to disasters. For example, the to me.’ Disaster Risk Reduction and Management initiative with the Anglican Diocese of Colombo and the —Matthew 25: 37-40 (NRSV) Church’s Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA) in Sri Lanka evaluated disaster preparedness and response practices, identified possible improvements, and produced a tool-book of how best to use these prac - The Rev. Cathy Halford is a deacon at St. Columb’s/Ridgeland and ERD’s Mississippi representative. tices and improvements. Malaria Prevention — Although Guinea, a country in western Africa, declared its independence from France in 1958, its autocratic government has impeded its growth. As one of the world’s most im - poverished countries, its health system is poorly developed. Many of its medical facilities lack adequate staff, medicine, and equipment. Guinea has a very high rate of malaria. However, Episcopal Relief & A date to remember: Development’s Nets-for-Life program has made huge strides in decreasing the number of cases of malaria. Local volunteers are equipped to educate their communities in how to use the nets. With reg - January 16, 2016 at 10:30 A.M. ular monitoring and continued use of insecticide-treated nets, Nets-for-Life has been very successful. Presbyters to be ordained! Micro-Credit Loans for Women — On one of the Vanuatu Islands in the South Pacific, 18-year- old Lisa teaches 28 future carpenters to read and write. Lisa was selected to go to a training course and St. Andrew’s Cathedral/Jackson then pass on her knowledge to the students of the local Rural Training Centre, where young people
Truckin’ Continued from page 3 October 27 — I presided over staff meetings in the morning. Later in the morning, I met with the Rev. Canon Jody Burnett and the Rev. Canon-Elect Brian Ponder to discuss and plan the litur - gies for annual council in Biloxi. I am indebted to Jody for his leadership and attention to these liturgical details. I am also excited for him and Julia who will give birth to their first child tomorrow! In the afternoon, I met with Canon Johnson. I left in the late afternoon to pick up the girls from school. October 28 — Early morning workout. In the office, I kept meetings, first with a clergy person. Later in the morning, I met with members of the committee for our partnership with the Diocese of Panama. I’m looking forward to visiting Panama to meet with their bishop, Julio Murray, but also to surf! After this meeting, I drove to Southaven for a meeting, worship, and fellowship at St. Timo - thy’s. This church is on fire with the Holy Spirit! I spent the night in Southaven. October 29 — After breakfast, I attended another meeting at St. Timothy’s. Following that meet - ing, I drove back to Jackson for a meeting with Cathedral Consultants (I broke no speed limits and was only a couple minutes late). After the meeting with the consultants, I presented a report to the Allin House staff. It was well received. I look forward to sharing the same vision and hopes with the whole diocese. October 30 — Early morning workout. I kept an early morning meeting over coffee with the Rev. Ben Robertson at Starbucks. Following the meeting with Ben, I went to Allin House for a meet - ing with Marci Turner, a parishioner at St. Albans. Marci will be attending Seminary of the South - west in a lay degree program. The afternoon was packed with phone meetings and annual consultation with the Rev. Scott Williams, parish deacon at St. Peter’s in Gulfport. In the evening, Kyle and I attended New Stage with friends. October 31 — In the morning, I attended Fall Festival at Gray Center with Katie and Betsy. In the afternoon, I watched USC beat Cal for its second win in a row!
8 The Mississippi Episcopalian November 2015 EVANGELISM
withstand those questions. Because of the misperception that doubts aren’t suitable for church life, Speaking in Faith I’ve come to believe that the words “I don’t know” hold great power for evan - gelism. If we speak of a God beyond our comprehension, a God powerful enough to create the universe, shouldn’t we also admit honestly that we cannot By Carol Mead know everything about God? If we do claim to know all about God, it is not God that we know at all, but our narrow (and often self-serving) perception of Frequently, I’ve heard people say, “I don’t go to church because I have God. Wouldn’t other people, curious about connecting with God through too many doubts about God [or the Bible].” It surprises me, but it’s true that church, be comforted by knowing that we “churchy” human beings don’t claim some people write off organized religion because they assume that doubts dis - to know everything? qualify them from participating in a faith community. People may be very inter - I find a sense of holiness, too, in having such intimate trust in God that I ested in pursuing God and learning about God. And yet, the fear that doubts can speak my questions aloud. As August Wilson wrote, “Your willingness to have no place in church life push them to classify themselves as “spiritual but wrestle with your demons will cause your angels to sing.” The angels sing often not religious.” in my heart, in my home, in my church. Choosing the Christian life is not a linear process, in which we step per - The angels sing when I say of the ways of God, “I don’t know.” manently from the land of doubt over into the land of certainty. Instead, as Christians, we live a life which vacillates between doubt and trust. We practice Please let me know if you have ideas you’d like for me to explore in future trusting God overall, but part of that trust means that we trust that God will not columns. You can contact me as follows: The Rev. Carol Mead, St. Peter’s by- condemn us for voicing doubts or questions. the-Lake, 1954 Spillway Road, Brandon, MS 39047. I’m also available by In The Wounded Heart , Dan Allender speaks of the honesty needed in a email at [email protected] relationship with God, saying, “Those who trust God most are those whose faith permits them to risk wrestling with Him over the deepest questions of life.” If we honestly admit our doubts and questions The Rev. Carol Mead is priest-in-charge at St. Peter’s by-the-Lake/Brandon. while remaining part of a faith community, we prove that we believe God to be powerful enough to
Curry Continued from page 7 A date to remember: Tuesday, December 1, 2015 Diocese of Southwest Florida Bishop Dabney Smith, Diocese of Southern Ohio Bishop Thomas Breidenthal and Diocese of Con - necticut Bishop Ian Douglas were the other nominees. Curry’s election was confirmed an hour later by the House of Deputies, as out - Deadline for the December issue of lined in the church’s canons, by a vote of 800 to 12. The Mississippi Episcopalian It’s the second time in a row that the church will make history with its installation of a presiding bishop. In 2006, current Presid - ing Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori became the first woman elected presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church. She was also the first female among the primates, or ordained leaders, of the Anglican Communion’s 38 provinces, a distinction she still holds. Jefferts Schori had been elected June 18, 2006 during the 75th meeting of General Convention.
The roles of the presiding bishop The presiding bishop is chief pastor and primate of the church, chair of the Executive Council, and president of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society. The canonical outline of the presiding bishop’s election and term can be found in Title I Section 2 of the church’s Canons. According to Title I Section 2, the presiding bishop as chief pastor and primate is “charged with responsibility for leadership in initiating and developing the policy and strategy in the church and speaking for the church as to the policies, strategies and programs authorized by the General Convention.” The presiding bishop also “speaks God’s word to the church and world as the representative of this Church and its episcopate in its corporate capacity,” represents The Episcopal Church to the Anglican Communion, serves as chief consecrator of bishops, and leads the House of Bishops. He or she also holds a significant role in the discipline and changes in status of bishops, according to Title I Section 2. Also, the presiding bishop exercises a significant role in the governance of the church by making appointments to various governing bodies, making decisions with the president of the House of Deputies, serving as a member of every churchwide committee and commission, and serving as chair and president of key church governing boards. He or she is the chair and chief executive officer of the Executive Council, which is the board of directors for the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society, according to Canon I.4, and oversees the execution of the programs and policies adopted by the General Convention and carried out by the Society. The staff of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society report to the presiding bishop, who is the Society’s president, either directly or through a group of senior staff and officers who, according to canon, report and are accountable directly to the presid - ing bishop. (The office of the General Convention, by canon, maintains a separate report - ing structure.) In its “Call to Discernment and Profile,” the joint nominating committee said the 27th presiding bishop would need to be “comfortable in the midst of ambiguity and able to lead the church in the rich, temporal space between the ‘now,’ and the ‘yet to come.’ ” The person discerned and elected by the church would need to “delight” in the diversity of a “multi-national, multi-lingual, multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-generational church.” And, because “our polity has many components and complexities,” the 27th pre - siding bishop will need the “skills and wisdom for leading complex and democratic sys - tems through a time of significant change.” Curry Continued on page 10
November 2015 The Mississippi Episcopalian 9 SPIRITUAL GROWTH Cursillo = Christ’s love
By Paula King It is difficult to find the words to adequately describe my experience. From the minute I arrived I was surrounded by people who joyfully served the cursillistas from early in the morning until late into When Carol Simmons, my dear friend and my son’s godmother, told me that she wanted to spon - the night. It was an incredible experience; I have never felt Christ’s love as purely and as palpably as I sor me to go to Cursillo, I was not sure what to expect. I had heard of Cursillo, but didn’t know anyone did at Cursillo. It flowed through the staff, the music, and the incredible people I met there, and even, besides her who had been. I committed, slightly nervous, but also really excited, and determined to let to my surprise, through me. Cursillo has deepened my experience of God, and of what it means to be myself experience it fully. She picked me up in Cleveland and drove me to Gray Center. As we drove to the church. It has made me look more deeply for opportunities to be of service. the reception area, she said, “Get ready for the royal treatment.” I had no idea what she meant—but I soon learned she wasn’t kidding. The staff were ready and waiting to meet every need I had—and some Paul King is a communicant at Calvary/Cleveland. I didn’t know I had!
Cursillo129 Sitting: Hollie Hull, Beth Robertson, Barbara Hammer, Sarah Buffington, Becca Walton, Stephen Fritz, Martha Jane Skipper, Beth Foose, Jan Belot, 2nd row: Dave Crews, Ramona Underwood, V.A. Patterson, Margaret-Love Denman, Katharine Surkin (Rector), Alison Duncan (Head Cha-Cha), Pepper, Paula King, Helen McKee, Paula Provine, Anna Howard, Susan Nix, 3rd row: Dorothy Triplett, Frank Cuervo, Charlie Deaton, Whit Rayner, Jenny Newman, Jackie Morgan, Melissa Arceneaux, Betty Melton, Charles Hawkins, Bruce Scarborough, Margaret Ayers, Lloyd Gray, Debra Carr, 4th row: Douglas Kennedy, Greg Webb, Lee Ann Armstrong, Richie Armstrong, Catherine Gray, David Chew, Catherine Smith, Stacey Smith, Susie Boolos, Mike Boolos.
Curry Continued from page 9 Originally, the office of presiding bishop was filled automatically by the most senior bishop in the migration policy and marriage equality. House of Bishops, measured by date of consecration, beginning with the presidency of William White at He serves on the boards of many organizations and has a national preaching and teaching min - the first session of the 1789 General Convention. That process changed in 1925 when the church istry. He has been featured on The Protestant Hour and North Carolina Public Radio’s The State of elected the Rt. Rev. John Gardner Murray as the 16th presiding bishop. An interactive timeline about the Things, as well as on The Huffington Post website. In addition, Curry is a frequent speaker at confer - presiding bishops is here. ences around the country. He has received honorary degrees from Sewanee: The University of the South, Virginia Theological Seminary, Yale, and, most recently, Episcopal Divinity School. He served on Presiding Bishop-elect Curry’s past ministry the Taskforce for Re-imagining the Episcopal Church and recently was named chair of Episcopal Relief Born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 13, 1953, Curry attended public schools in Buffalo, New York, & Development’s board of directors. and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1975 from Hobart and William Smith Colleges, in Geneva, New His most recent book, Songs My Grandma Sang, was published in June 2015. His book of sermons, York, and a Master of Divinity degree in 1978 from the Berkeley Divinity School at Yale. He has also Crazy Christians, came out in August 2013. studied at Princeton Theological Seminary, Wake Forest University, the Ecumenical Institute at St. Curry and his wife, Sharon, have two adult daughters, Rachel and Elizabeth. Mary’s Seminary, and the Institute of Christian Jewish Studies. He was ordained to the diaconate in June 1978 at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buffalo, New York, and to The Rev. Mary Frances Schjonberg is an editor and reporter for the Episcopal News Service. the priesthood in December 1978 at St. Stephen’s, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He began his min - istry as deacon-in-charge at St. Stephen’s, and was rector there 1979-1982. He next accepted a call to serve as the rector of St. Simon of Cyrene, Lincoln Heights, Ohio, where he served 1982-1988. In 1988, he became rector of St. James’, Baltimore, Maryland, where he served until his election as bishop. In his three parish ministries, Curry was active in the founding of ecumenical summer day camps for children, the creation of networks of family day-care providers and educational centers, and the bro - kering of millions of dollars of investment in inner city neighborhoods. He also sat on the commission on ministry in each of the three dioceses in which he has served. During his time as bishop of North Carolina, Curry instituted a network of canons, deacons and youth ministry professionals dedicated to supporting the ministry that already happens in local congre - gations and refocused the diocese on The Episcopal Church’s dedication to the United Nation’s Millen - nium Development Goals through a $400,000 campaign to buy malaria nets that saved thousands of lives. Throughout his ministry, Curry has also been active in issues of social justice, speaking out on im -
10 The Mississippi Episcopalian November 2015 EVENTS
DIOCESAN CALENDAR Deployment Report NOVEMBER 2015 For The Diocese of Mississippi • 6-8: Sr. High DOY — Camp Bratton Green November, 2015 • 8: Bishop Seage visits Christ Church, Holly Springs — 11:00 a.m. New Calls/Appointments • 8-10: Presbyter POC — Gray Center The Reverend Tom Fanning, to be Rector , St. John’s, Pascagoula • 11: Blessing of the Columbarium — Grace Church, Canton • 13-14: ECW Fall Conference (The Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan) — Gray Center Retirements/Resignations 13-15: A. C. Marble School • The Very Reverend J. Lee Winter, announced retirement effective December 31 , 13-15: Happening #82 — St. John’s, Pascagoula • Resurrection, Starkville • 15: Bishop Seage visits All Saints’, Tupelo — 9:30 a.m. • 20: All Saints’ School Graduation In Transition • 25-27: Allin House closed for Thanksgiving Christ Church, Bay St. Louis • 30-Dec. 4: Gee’s Bend Quilting Retreat — Gray Center St. Thomas’, Diamondhead Redeemer, Greenville DECEMBER 2015 St. Paul’s, Hollandale St. John’s, Leland • 1: Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian St. Mary’s, Lexington • 3: Standing Committee Meeting — Allin House — 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. St. Paul’s, Meridian 4-5: Gray Center Board — Gray Center • Mediator, Meridian 4-6: Knitting & Needlework Retreat — Gray Center • Holy Cross, Olive Branch 6: Bishop Seage visits Holy Cross, Olive Branch — 1:00 p.m. • St. Peter’s, Oxford • 9: Convocational Deans’ Meeting — Allin House — 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. St. Francis’, Philadelphia • 10: Finance Committee Meeting — St. Andrew’s Cathedral — 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. St. Timothy’s, Southaven • 11-13: A. C. Marble School • 13: Bishop Seage visits St. Paul’s, Woodville — 10:30 a.m. • 17: Executive Committee Meeting — St. Andrew’s Cathedral — 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. • 23-28: Allin House closed for Christmas • 27-Jan. 1: Winter Solstice — Camp Bratton-Green A date to remember: • 31: Allin House closed at noon for New Year’s Eve January 16, 2016 at 10:30 A.M. Presbyters to be ordained! JANUARY 2016 St. Andrew’s Cathedral/Jackson • 4-6: Presbyter Discernment • 5: Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian • 15-17: A. C. Marble School • 16 Ordination to the Priesthood — St. Andrew’s — 10:30 a.m. • 18: Allin House closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday • 20: Fresh Start — St. Andrew’s Cathedral — 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • 24: Bishop Seage visits Trinity, Pass Christian — 10:30 a.m. • 29-31: 189th Annual Council — Mississippi Coast Coliseum, Biloxi FAITHFUL DEPARTED Please submit Faithful Departed notices to your church for submission Virginia Adams McCord , 62, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died June 11, 2015. James Frank McKenzie , 84, communicant of Trinity, Hattiesburg, died July 17, 2015. Martha Claire Kennedy Fitzner , 58, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died September 9, 2015 Katherine Steil Neese , 93, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died October 17, 2015. Gayle Slaughter Boyd , 89, communicant of St Paul’s, Meridian, died October 21, 2015. Allen Rufus Thompson , 89, communicant of St. James’, Greenville, died October 25, 2015.
November 2015 The Mississippi Episcopalian 11 OUTREACH Trinity/Hattiesburg works with AIDS Services Coalition
By Kathy Garner Trinity, chimed in, “Gretchen is a very ac - tive and faithful member of Trinity Episco - Christmas comes early each year to pal Church and service to others is the AIDS Services Coalition in Hatties - important to her. This is just one of many burg. This organization that grew from a ways she helps her church and our com - ministry of Trinity Episcopal Church has munity.” for five years been the joyful recipient of One of only two HIV pantries in the one family’s incredible outreach ministry. state, The Food for Life Pantry serves 10- Gretchen and Jerry Grimsley, members of 12 households a month, providing Trinity, collect food for the AIDS Services healthy food as well as nutritional supple - Coalition’s Food for Life Pantry each Oc - ments that many must have to remain tober. For this one month each year, strong. It is funded through Trinity Epis - Gretchen solicits food from fellow parish - copal Church and donation from founda - ioners, her friends and colleagues, and tions such as MS HeARTS Against AIDS the community at large to stock the and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. shelves of this pantry. “When Gretchen For more information about the Food for found out that we had a pantry, she im - Life Pantry and other programs of the mediately went to work. It is a bit of a AIDS Services Coalition or to find out miracle what happens in one month. The ways you can help, please go to food she collects stocks our shelves with www.ascms.org or call 601-450-4286. non-perishables for a least six months of the year,” said Kathy Garner, Executive Kathy Garner is a communicant at Director of the AIDS Services Coalition. The Rev. Marian Fortner, rector of Trinity/Hattiesburg, with Gretchen and Jerry Grimsley, parishioners at Trinity/Hattiesburg. The Reverend Marian Fortner, Rector of Trinity, stand with the food to be donated to the Food for Life Panty. Tony Jones/Photo Grace House celebrates 20 years of helping homeless affected by HIV/AIDS
By Lisa Moore and Catherine Sullivan living with HIV/AIDS that are in need of emergency as - sistance. Commodore’s life was over. The 33-year-old drug To honor our current and past residents and to dealer and addict lay in a coma at the University of Mis - build a sound foundation for our future, Grace House sissippi Medical Center, the result of a heart attack Services is launching a 20 for 20 Campaign. As an indi - caused by lack of treatment for a diagnosis of HIV. vidual, group or corporate donor, one becomes a mem - But a praying and believing grandmother kept vigil ber of the 20 for 20 Red Ribbon Circle of Honor Society. at his bedside. He recovered from the coma and his A donor’s support turns despair into hope for hundreds health began to improve over the following months. In of people living in the shadows of society across Missis - February 2006, Commodore was referred to Grace sippi. House. Here he received the support, stability, accept - Celebrate with us. Make a 20 for 20 Campaign: a ance and unconditional love to begin a new life – a life Legacy to celebrate a sound future pledge today to of health and the support to manage his disease. honor the past and ensure a brighter future for the Today he continues to live at Grace House. Drug men, women and families we serve. Make checks free. Healthy. But now, he is on the giving end – provid - payable to Grace House, Inc. or donate online at ing acceptance and support to those who once felt as hopeless and desperate as he once felt. www.gracehousems.org. Your gift is 100% tax deductible. For 20 years, Grace House has provided programs and services to thousands of homeless men and women living with HIV/AIDS. However, with the discovery of new antiretroviral med - Catherine Sullivan is the executive director of Grace House, and Lisa Moore is the director of ications, our focus has shifted from helping people dying with a fatal disease to assisting those development. with a chronic, manageable one. Although the focus of Grace House has shifted, its mission is the same—to serve homeless Mississippians living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Grace House: • Provides and maintains housing where our residents live with dignity, safety and care; • Provides supportive services to meet the physical, mental, educational, employment and spiritual needs of our residents; • Prepares residents for independence through skills development; • Empowers each to achieve the highest quality and most independent life possible; • Educates the public about HIV/AIDS awareness. Last year, Grace House for Women was opened. This is a program for chemically dependent, homeless women in recovery. Our TBRA (tenant based rental assistance program) currently serves families living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, including 28 children aged birth to 17. The in-house food pantry provides food to those individuals
12 The Mississippi Episcopalian November 2015