ST. COLUMBA’S Newsletter n February 2016 1

Dear Ones,Sometimes, all it takes is an invitation to get started.

With Ash Wednesday on February 10, we embark upon the season of Lent. A lot can happen in our lives in a forty-day period. Noah and his fellow creatures survived a flood, received a promise in the rainbow, and began life anew. Jesus went deep into solitary wilderness, was tempted by Satan, and was ministered to by angels. The church invites us to the observance of a holy Lent, invites us to be intentional in seeking a deeper relationship with God. We do so by creating time for prayer and reflection, giving ourselves to others, seeking reconciliation in fractured relationships, or reading Holy Scripture. Lent is a gift in time offered to each of us. I invite you to join me in accepting this gift by marking this season with prayerful intention in your life.

I invite you to join as a member of St. Columba’s in a special service on Sun., Feb. 21. In our invitation to Holy Communion, we say “Whoever you are, wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith, you are welcome at Christ’s table.” This is true, forever. I don’t know what you’re seeking, where you’ve been, or where you’re headed. I do know that in our journey of faith, it can be good for our souls to say, “Yes, this is the congregation for me at this time; I’m in!” Some of you made this decision long ago; you’ve nurtured the rest of us along the way. Some of you may be waiting

for this invitation. What is involved in joining?• decide this is the community of

people with whom you would like to share your journey of faith at this time;

• participate in one of our ministries so you can get to know others;

• make a financial commitment to our ministry in the form of a pledge;

• celebrate your decision by parti-cipating in a service of welcome!

Want to learn more? Join me on Sun., Feb. 14 at 10:15 am in the Church Nave or 12:30 pm in 205 or contact me directly.

On behalf of the vestry, I invite you to St. Columba’s Annual Parish Meeting on Sun., Feb. 21 at 10:15 am in the Great Hall.

I will offer the “Rector’s State of the Parish” address with highlights and celebration of the year past and year to come. Together, we will:• offer thanks to those stepping

down from leadership roles;• offer prayers for those stepping up;• receive an update on our financial

giving and annual budget;• elect new members of our vestry

and diocesan delegates;• rejoice in the wondrous ways that

the Holy Spirit is moving among us, enlivening our faith and lives together.

Sometimes, all it takes is an invitation. These three are for you.

Peace! Ledlie

llaughlin@columba.org

ST. COLUMBA’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

4201 Albemarle Street NW Washington, DC 20016

202-363-4119 fax 202-686-2671

Columba.org The Rev. Ledlie Laughlin

Rectorllaughlin@columba.org

Vol. 59, No. 1

February 2016

Newsletter

“The church invites us

to the observance of a

holy Lent, invites us to be

intentional in seeking a

deeper relationship with

God through the

commitment of our

time and energy.”

Three Invitations

Celebratinga New

Beginning

ST. COLUMBA’S n 202-363-4119 n Columba.org2

Mothers’ GroupWed., Feb. 3, 10 amJoin mothers of all ages for coffee, snacks and fellowship as we get to know each other better and talk about the joys and challenges of motherhood. We will meet in Rm 203, and mothers of all ages are welcome; child care is provided in Rm 220. Contact: Susan Higginsmothersgroupleader@columba.org

Candidates Forum Sun., Feb. 7, 10:15 am Great HallCome hear from the vestry and diocesan delegate candidates at this Forum, two weeks prior to the Annual Meeting and elections on Sun., Feb. 21. Candidate statements and biographies start on page 5.

Mardi Gras Party Tues., Feb. 9, 5:30-8 pmGreat HallLAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER ... Join us for a Shrove Tuesday Mardi Gras Party! Don your beads and feathered mask for one last night of reveling before Lent begins. Pancakes and traditional Mardi Gras fare will be paired with festive beverages. Fees: $15/adult or youth (12+) and $6/child payable at the door by cash or check. For questions or to volunteer, visit: tinyurl.com/STCMardiGras2016 Contacts: Prentiss Lay and Lisa Whelan hospitalityleader@columba.org

Newcomer Meeting Sun., Feb. 14, 10 am, Church Nave;or 12:30 pm in Rm 205Visitors and newcomers are invited to meet with rector Ledlie Laughlin and explore what it means to join St. Columba’s. Contact: the Rev. Ledlie Laughlin llaughlin@columba.org

Open Labyrinth Walks Wed., Feb. 17, 6-8 pmSat., Feb. 20, 10 am-12 noonGreat HallCome experience this ancient form of meditation. No experience necessary! On Sat., Feb. 20, learn how to quiet the mind and promote balance through T’ai Chi (ancient Chinese and gentle exercises). This workshop runs from 10-10:45 am in the Great Hall, after which all are welcome to walk the labyrinth until noon. The labyrinth and workshop are appropriate for all ages. More info at: tinyurl.com/StCsLabryinth. Contact: Suzi Kindervatterlabyrinthleader@columba.org

Annual MeetingSun., Feb. 21, 10:15 amGreat HallThe annual parish meeting and election of vestry and diocesan delegate candidates will take place Sun., Feb. 21 in the Great Hall. Agenda to include: “Rector’s State of the Parish” address with highlights and celebration of the year past and year to come, along with an update on annual giving and the budget.

Absalom Jones ServiceSun., Feb. 7, 3 pm

St. Andrew’s, College Park and

the Washington Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians invite you to the Absalom Jones Service at Washington National Cathedral. We honor Absalom Jones, the first African American to be ordained in the Episcopal Church. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will preach; a sermon not to be missed. This is a wonderful opportunity to be inspired in your faith, and to witness the breadth and vitality of our church. Contact: the Rev. Rose Duncan, rduncan@columba.org.

Worship Services

Sundays in the Church Nave8 am EucharistA quiet, simple Eucharist with homily and without music.

9 am EucharistIn the Church Nave, with sermon, choirs, hymns and the healing rite.

9:15 and 11:15 am Eucharistfor families with preschool children in the Great Hall, with story-style telling of the Gospel and songs children can sing.

10:15 am Education HourSunday School, youth programs, Sunday Forum, Bible study and refreshments.

11:15 am EucharistIn the Church Nave, with sermon, St. Columba Singers, hymns and the healing rite.

Coffee and fellowship follows all morning services.

Live@5 An alternative Eucharist with contemporary music. The next Live@5 service is scheduled for Sun., Mar. 6.

Child care is available for children ages 3 and under, 8:45 am to 12:30 pm.

Weekdays (in St. Aidan’s Chapel)Morning Prayer8:45 am Monday–Thursday;8 am Friday Thursday Eucharist12:10 pm

Holy Baptism For information on baptismal preparation and registration, please contact the Rev. Rose Duncan (baptism@columba.org; 202-363-4119,ext. 212) or Pattie Ames (baptism@columba.org; ext. 222). Forms are due six weeks prior to the date of baptism. Upcoming dates: Sat., Mar. 26 (Easter Vigil), 7 pm and Sun., Mar. 27 (Easter), 5 pm in the Church Nave.

Calendar

ST. COLUMBA’S n Open in Spirit

ST. COLUMBA’S Newsletter n February 2016 3

n Welcome those who have completed welcome cards: Jesus Acosta, Kermit, TX; Laura and Kwabena Akowuah, Bethesda, MD; Carla D. Alleyne, DC; Katrina L. Carte, DC; Kat Davis, DC; Laura Dorling and Sebastian Van Der Oord, Bethesda, MD; Lindy, Jack, Ward and Evie Gallagher, Bethesda, MD; Jazmin Heartfield, DC; Victoria Lynch and Alexander, Josephone, Richard and Peter Cook, DC; Wagner and Claire Pierce, DC; Joel Ruhter and Molly Reynolds, DC; Gwynne and Will Villota, DC.

n Welcome new members: Lisette, Annabelle and Chiara Howells, DC; Alice, Daniel and Nora Podor, Potomac, MD; Christopher and Sarah Yeager, Silver Spring, MD.

n Rejoice with: grandparents Ann and Tom Humphrey and parents Susan Humphrey Skelly and Sean Skelly for the birth of Spencer Thomas Skelly, Oct. 24; with Jason and Christine Gebhardt for the birth of Francis Joshua Eibner-Gebhard, Nov. 17; with Cindy Anderson for the birth of granddaughter Teresa Vivas Anderson, Nov. 28; with Judi Raak and Rick Heuwinkle for the birth of granddaughter Harper Rose Hassinger, Dec. 20.

n Pray for the souls of those who have died: Leslie Owen Thompson, wife of Wayne C. Fowler, Nov. 21; Anne Suthers, mother of Ellen Suthers, aunt of Emily and Anne Ainsworth, and sister of Ellen Kuiper, Nov. 28; Bruni Dulaney, mother of Rick Dulaney, Dec. 6; Ema Wilson, aunt of Beverly Hudnut; Bonnie Mae Herrick McClain, mother of Steven McClain; Wah Hing Eng, uncle of

Nimi R B Andersen-Rivas; Robert Letsinger, father of Eric Letsinger; Edward Walthall Ross, father of David Ross, Jan. 5; Dan Davis; Lauretta DeHaney, aunt of Judy Hutchinson and Rose Duncan, Jan. 11; Becky Slobogin, mother of Kathy Slobogin, Jan. 16; Barbara Amberg, sister of Rosemary Dickerson, Jan. 17; Stephen Elgin, father of Heather Cole, Jan. 17; Mary Mulderig, mother of Bob Mulderig/Mulderig-Garman family, Jan. 20; Eunice Levie, mother of Richard Levie.

n Transfers: William R. Riggs to Christ Church, Poughkeepsie, NY; Christopher, Carla and Cecelia Wilson to The Falls Church Episcopal, Falls Church, VA.

Let us know when an illness, death, transition or joyful event occurs in your life. Contact the Rev. Peter Antoci (pastoral@columba.org; 202-363-4119).

ST. COLUMBA’S n Deep in Faith

Transitions

Ash Wednesday Eucharist and Imposition of AshesFeb. 10, 7 am, 12 noon, 7 pm Children’s Service: 4:30 pmAshes to Go: 7-8:30 am; 5-6:60 pmTenleytown Metro Station

Lent Book Study GroupsStarting Feb. 8 This Lent, our parish will once again come together in small study groups, this year to discuss the new writings of Dr. Stephen Cook entitled, “Reading Deuteronomy: A Literary and Theo-logical Commentary.” Starting the week of Feb. 8, study groups meet various days and locations in Lent.

Lenten Sunday Forums“Deep Longing For God, Others and the Natural World: The Voice of Moses” Feb. 14 & 28; March 6 & 13, 10:15 am Dr. Stephen Cook, professor of Old

Testament at Virginia Theological Seminary, will also lead four Sunday Forums entitled, “Deep Longing For God, Others and the Natural World: The Voice of Moses.” Dr. Cook’s consistent and accessible theological approach to the Book of Deuteronomy recovers the vibrancy, relevance and challenge of the voice of Moses for our times. Join us for these four intriguing sessions.

Lent Day of ReflectionSat., Feb. 27, 9 am-3 pm Led by The Very Reverend Martha Horne, dean, Virginia Theological Seminary (retired). Dean Horne will be leading a day of prayer and reflection on the theme of “Forgiveness.” The labyrinth in the Great Hall will also be available for prayer throughout the day.

Legos for LentWednesdays, 4:30-7 pmChildren ages 4-10 and their parents are invited to join us for this special program exploring Bible stories through hearing and creatively expressing them with Legos. Come for dinner, Bible stories and Lego creation on Wednesday nights during Lent.

Lenten Labyrinth WalksCome experience St. C’s labyrinth as we initiate this form of meditation during Lent. An ancient form of meditation, a labyrinth walk involves the whole body in prayer. Come to the Great Hall and pray with us! (See page 2 for dates and times.)

Register for all Lenten programs at Columba.org.

n The Rev. Dr. Peter Antoci pantoci@columba.org

SPIRITUAL PREPARATION FOR EASTER

Looking Ahead to Lent

ST. COLUMBA’S n 202-363-4119 n Columba.org4

The calendar has been full. St. C’s has been a whirlwind of activity.

In November, we joyously celebrated our new ministry as our rector, Ledlie Laughlin, took the helm. In Advent, we sang, we decorated, made shortbread and sandwiches, lit candles and prepared our hearts and our homes for the coming of Christ. At Christmas, over 2500 parishioners, friends and neighbors joined our worship services to

celebrate and proclaim the miracle of Christ’s birth. And in the season of Epiphany, our star shone brightly in recognition that God chose to walk among us. The season of Lent is now upon us, in which we are asked to reflect, to contemplate and to pray.

Throughout the year, Stewardship calls us to reflect upon our blessings, and to consider how we demonstrate our gratitude for all that God and St. Columba’s have given to us in abundance. At St. Columba’s, we have much to be thankful for: an outstanding music program for children and adults, Christian formation and continuing education, outreach to the community beyond our walls. It bears repeating: All that happens in and around St.

Columba’s depends on parishioner pledge dollars. With no endowment, and costs that rise no matter how carefully we expend our resources, Columbans must set a high value on continued vitality, and “join in.”

To date, just over 500 of the 2,000+ registered households in our database have made a 2016 pledge. We are grateful for the generosity of our pledging parishioners, and we need the support of every household to meet our operating budget and envision a bright future for St. Columba’s.

Next on our calendar is the Annual Meeting on Sun., Feb. 21. At the annual meeting, we’ll vote for new vestry members and diocesan delegates, and hear about improve-ments to our physical plant and the

ministries that make St. Columba’s a vibrant hub of activity. We’ll also talk dollars and sense, and express our gratitude to the households who have made a 2016 pledge. If you have not yet made a pledge, please “join in.” And, please do pledge before the February 21st parish meeting, where we will present a Stewardship report reflecting the generosity of our parish.

Scripture tells us that we are The Body of Christ, and that all parts of the body are essential. At St. Columba’s, we are mightily and abundantly blessed, and we express our gratitude to God and to our parish in Stewardship. We are grate-ful to the households who have pledged, and ask that all parish households make a financial pledge. We ask you to prayerfully consider your pledge as your participation in this body, The Body of Christ. We ask you to “join in.”

With gratitude and blessings from the Stewardship committee,

Suzanne Burrows, chairPaul BarringerBob Bremner

Fletcher JonesPrentiss Lay

Laura McIntoshJohn NolanKeri PiesterLisa Whelan

stewardship@columba.org

ST. COLUMBA’S n Rich in Worship

Vestry NotesAt the vestry’s Dec. 14, 2015 meeting:• Rector Ledlie Laughlin discussed

ministry leadership teams and the vestry’s 2016 retreat.

• Nominating committee co-chair Elizabeth Vaden reported that the committee has selected nominees for the vestry and diocesan delegate positions.

• COO Paul Barkett reported that installation of the new windows will be completed in December, with installation of new doors to be completed in early January.

• Paul Barringer reported that the Transition Team is planning a series of welcome events with Ledlie. Parishioners will be able to sign up for the events online or at a table in the Common.

• The vestry approved a resolution to advise the diocese that we will make a pledge to the diocese in an amount ($90,000) at least equal to that pledged last year.

• The vestry began a discussion of options regarding the $900,000 PNC loan that comes due in March 2016

Respectfully submitted,Charles Molluzzo

secretary of the vestry

Stewardship 2016 Update

“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.”

CORINTHIANS 12:12

ST. COLUMBA’S Newsletter n February 2016 5

Who is qualified to vote? You are qualified to vote if you are at least 15 years old, baptized and entered on the parish rolls, and are a member of a contributing house-hold to the parish. Contributions are defined as recorded pledges, identifiable offerings or services rendered. Voters are reminded that they may vote only once.

Ballots and Absentee Ballots Voting will take place before, during, and after the Annual Meeting on Sun., Feb. 21. If you are unable to attend the Annual Meeting but wish to vote, you may complete a ballot

at the Welcome Table on Feb. 7 (after the Candidates Forum) or on Feb. 14. Ballots may also be completed at the parish office during office hours the week prior to the Annual Meeting.

What happens at the February 7 Sunday Forum? Nominees are introduced and candidates for warden and vestry speak.

What is the vestry? The vestry is “… the agent and legal representative of the parish in all matters concerning its corporate property and the relations of the

parish to its clergy. It shall consist of the rector, the senior warden, the junior warden and 12 members as described below. Nominees for the vestry shall have been qualified voters of the parish for at least the preceding year and shall be at least 18 years of age.” (Bylaws of St. Columba’s Parish, Article 6, Sections 1 and 2).

How are candidates chosen? Candidates are chosen by the Nominating committee, which is headed by two vestry members.

(See “Election Primer” on page 8)

Annual Parish Meeting and Election: Feb. 21

CANDIDATES FOR WARDEN Elect two to serve one-year terms

LANE HEARD Senior Warden

Occupation: Lawyer, Williams & Connolly

Family: Spouse/Partner, Margaret Bauer; Children: Ethan, Peregrine and Clarion Heard and Emily Knickerbocker

Church Experience: I am completing my first year as senior warden after serving as junior warden for two years and on the vestry for two terms. I also serve as a lay minister. In years past, I was a member of the search committee that helped bring Janet here as rector.

ELIZABETH G. TAYLOR Junior Warden

Occupation: Lawyer; Executive Director of the National Health Law Program

Family: Spouse/Partner, David DeBruin; Children: Sam, Joey and Will DeBruin, all of whom grew up at St. Columba’s

Church experience: I have served two terms on the vestry and have just completed one year as junior warden. I also serve as a lay minister. I have served on the Outreach Steering committee, led the Friends of Samaritan Ministry group, a Spark group, a Lenten study group and taught many grades of Sunday School.

Looking back at the goals we identified this time last year, we have done pretty well. The vestry thanked Joe and sent him off with a grand celebration (and a DeCell original song). It prayerfully selected a new rector. We and many others in the parish have worked hard to make Ledlie’s first months here successful, but he hasn’t needed much help. Ledlie’s wisdom, his deep spiritual grounding, his commitment to the church as the hands and feet of Christ and his boundless energy have been an inspiration. We feel very lucky to be

working with him. The fourth goal we identified last year was to continue the work of putting the parish on a sound financial footing. We are continuing that work, but we are not there yet. We are thankful for a third straight year of increased pledging–in both numbers of pledges and amount. But our balanced budget is perilous: there’s a loan to be refinanced in March; and there’s still that peeling plaster. We will share our thoughts with you on this and other issues soon.

Candidate statements continue on page 6

JOINT STATEMENT

ST. COLUMBA’S n Active in Service

ST. COLUMBA’S n 202-363-4119 n Columba.org6

ST. COLUMBA’S n Active in Service

FLETCHER JONES Current Vestry Member

Occupation: Head of Product Marketing, CEB Inc.

Partner/family: Heather Jones; Children: Reece (16), Cameron (14) and Meg (12)

Church experience: Heather and I came to St. Columba’s in 1995 before we were married. We were Sunday regulars and got involved with Christmas in April (now Rebuilding Together). After moving to Michigan and then California, we returned in 2001 after starting our family. Our children were baptized here and attended the Nursery School where we helped with the Piggybank Campaign and rebuilding the playground.

My call to lay service has included Rose Duncan’s Seminarian committee and Rite 13 where I discovered my calling in youth ministry. I’ve served on the vestry for three years as a Nominating and Stewardship committee member. The journey from Janet to Joe to Ledlie has been a test and growth opportunity for the vestry, and I’m excited and hopeful for what lies ahead.

STEVE SMITH Current Vestry Member

Occupation: President, Advising & Admissions Solutions at Hobsons

Partner/family: Single

Church experience: St. Columba’s has been an important part of my life since 2001. I was raised Roman Catholic but discovered the Episcopal Church in college, attracted by the beauty of its liturgy and the inclusiveness of its theology. This parish drew me in with its deep sense of hospitality and purpose.

A member of the choir and an occasional organist since coming to St. Columba’s, I’ve also served as a member of the Finance committee for the past five years (as treasurer for two). I have learned first-hand about our fiscal challenges as the committee has guided us to a balanced budget; and I am seeing great potential as we begin to grow again. I’ve been privileged to serve as a vestry member during our leadership transition, and it would be an honor to continue that service.

JOE KOLAR Current Vestry Member

Occupation: Attorney, BuckleySander LLP

Partner/family: Kathryn Sullivan Kolar; Children: Carrie (27), James (25)

Church Experience: A member since 1993, I have been privileged to be a Sunday School teacher, a Rite 13 teacher, a member of the Parish Lay committee for seminarian Caleb Lee, and member of the Good Shepherds ministry. Most recently, I co-taught an Adult Formation class on Pope Francis’s recent encyclical; am leader of Loaves and Fishes, coordinator for the ACTS/Outreach committee and member of the Morning Prayer leadership team and the Adult Formation team.

As vestry member since 2013, I have gained a greater under-standing of what makes this church so special, and of its needs and challenges. A key focus for me is how we nurture and support each other so we can be Christ’s heart, hands and feet in reaching out to the needy across our city and the broader world.

JANE TUCKER DANA

Occupation: Community volunteer/attorney

Partner/family: David Aufhauser; Children: David Jr (30), Anne (28), Kate (25)

Church experience: David and I joined St C’s in 1982. We loved this community’s warmth and inclusiveness, worship, beautiful music and opportunities for service. St. C’s has been integral to our family life and my own spiritual journey via the Mothers’ Group, Nursery School and summer camp boards, Sunday School teaching, Youth Outreach Steering committee, the Haven and Katrina Mission Group. My current activities include Bishop Walker School Mission Group co-chair, Reach Out in Advent co-chair and Flower Guild and ACTS committee member.

Vestry priorities: To help our new rector imagine and implement a shared vision for this parish; to strengthen our long-term financial stability; and to listen and respond to parishioners’ hopes and wishes. It would be an honor and privilege to be part of that process.

CANDIDATES FOR VESTRY Elect four to serve three-year terms

ST. COLUMBA’S Newsletter n February 2016 7

CAROL GRAVES

Occupation: Church administrator

Partner/family: Willie H. Graves; Adult child: Erika Seabrooks

Church experience: Member of St. Columba’s for thirteen years. My husband and I were married here in April 2006.

I currently serve as an alternate diocesan delegate and usher, and was a member of the Compass Group. I have participated in Adult Formation courses. I am currently the treasurer for the Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese of Washington.

JEAN HOFF

Occupation: Financial planner

Partner/family: Single; Children: Gretchen Rozie (13), Carolyn (10) and Isaac (2002, deceased)

Church experience: Joined St. Columba in 2007. Finance committee

member (2010-14). Capital Campaign Task Force (2014-15). Alternate Diocesan Delegate (2015). I have enjoyed my current year as a diocesan alternate, and look forward to continuing my service as a delegate for the two-year cycle. It is a joy to be in any room with Bishop Mariann; learning about the Episcopal Church and how St. Columba’s can be engaged in the broader mission of the denomination.

ANN WAKEFIELD

Occupation: Reference Librarian, Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.

Partner/family: Single Church experience: Member since 2012; Adult Formation team; Altar Guild; Usher team; alternate delegate

to the 2016 diocesan convention: 42nd Street Fellowship.

ST. COLUMBA’S n Active in Service

DAVE FRULLA

Occupation: Partner, Kelley Drye & Warren, LLP

Partner/family: Lisa Lyons Frulla; Children: Everett (17), Grace (12)

Church experience: Lisa and I joined St. Columba’s when we were engaged, and first become active with the Nursery School. I have enjoyed being a Rite 13 and Sunday School leader, an usher and recent Search committee member.

At St. Columba, we find a quiet confidence in a well-managed institution that supports our collective aspirations—heartfelt welcome, joyful worship and music, Christian formation for all, big outreach ideas, reliable stewardship and a pastoral home base. The vestry helps promote this confidence through communication and reasonable transparency, while working with Ledlie and the dedicated staff regarding operational fundamentals. My professional life and Search committee work, in particular, equip me to serve in this important role.

ABIGAIL W. GORMAN

Occupation: Chief of Staff, American Institute of Architects

Partner/family: Patrick Gorman; Children: Michael and William Gorman

Church experience: A long-time parishioner, I have benefitted from serving the church by: teaching Sunday school; participating in Mothers’ Group; serving on the mission statement and Finance committees (five years). I co-lead one of the newest outreach ministries, the Grate Patrol, a loving response to hunger in the homeless community.

I grow in faith from this wonderful parish: the super music ministry, the youth programs and the outreach into the world about us. As the daughter of an Episcopal priest and grand-daughter of a bishop, I understand the importance of a strong relationship among rector, vestry and parish. This combined with 25 years in COO/CFO positions, I would be thrilled to support and advance the church’s collective ideas and vision.

CANDIDATES FOR VESTRY (Continued) CANDIDATES FOR DIOCESAN DELEGATE Elect three to serve two-year terms

Continued on page 8

ST. COLUMBA’S n 202-363-4119 n Columba.org8

SUZI KINDERVATTER

Occupation: 30+ year career with international NGOs focused on women’s and girls’ rights; semi-retired (teaching; leading workshops and retreats; serving on boards)

Partner/family: Ted Clark; Adult children Caitlin and Adam

Church experience: I officially became a member and fully committed to St C’s five years ago, after having been “bi-congregational” between St. C’s and the Cathedral’s Folk Eucharist community for about 20 years. St. C’s activities include: coordinator, new Labyrinth Ministry since 2015; Adult Formation support team (five years); presenter/facilitator of five St. C’s “Courses of Faith & Spirit;” Water Ministry and Centering Prayer (15+ years). In this role, I will listen and consult to bring St. C’s perspectives into the diocesan process. I look forward to the prospect of bringing back ideas and resources that can engage and enrich us.

BARBARA WOODALL KRAGIE

Occupations: 20+ years of public service and private practice litigation; 8+ years pro bono leadership for the Montgomery County Vital Living Network

Partner/family: Scott Kragie; Adult children: Alex and Andrew

Church experience: As St. C’s members in the early 1980s, we focused on outreach. Once children arrived, we taught Sunday School, supported youth programs and read with a 30+ year theology book group. In recent years, I have served on the vestry; supported St. C’s library by facilitating a book group and other activities, including liaising with the Adult Formation team; helped to found St. C’s Creative Aging Network; worked with the Water Ministry and Spark Group at Jubilee Jobs; and learned with the Flower Guild. I love modern, evolving Christianity and Bishop Mariann’s support for missional Christianity and hope to support healthy developments, working closely with other St. Columbans.

CANDIDATES FOR ALTERNATE DELEGATE Elect two to serve a one-year term

ST. COLUMBA’S n Active in Service

Continued from page 7

In December, the names of candidates for election to the vestry and to our team of diocesan delegates were announced at: tinyurl.com/StCsElections. On Sun., Feb. 7, our candidates will present their qualifications to you in the Sunday Forum. What are these positions, and why are they important to you?

The vestry is the elected voice of the laity at St. Columba’s. It determines how to allocate the resources of the parish, serves as the legal representative for the parish’s corporate property and provides formal feed-back to the rector and the clergy. The vestry consists of the rector; a junior and senior warden (the primary elected lay leaders of the congregation, who presideat vestry meetings in the rector’s absence), elected to one-year terms; and 12 members, who are elected to three-year terms. St. Columba’s vestry currently supports seven standing committees: Finance; Stewardship;Governance; Nominating; Rector Evaluation; New Leadership; and Transition. To better understand their roles, visit: tinyurl.com/StCsVestryInfo

Diocesan delegates provide a link between our congregation and the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, representing St. Columba’s and reporting back to uson diocesan events, actions and decisions. Delegates represent St. Columba’s at the annual diocesan convention, which brings together clergy and lay members from all 88 congregations under the Bishop’s leadership each January to decide the diocesan budget, elect members of various diocesan bodies and vote on special resolutions. The delegates also represent the congregation in other key forums, such as the Regional Assemblies each fall, when the bishop meets with clergy and delegates from each of the diocese’s six regions. At St. Columba’s, diocesan delegates are nominated for what is effectively a three-year term. In their first year, they are elected to serve as an alternate; a year later, they are elected again to begin their two-year term as a delegate.

Our sincere thanks go out to the Nominating committee for their prayerful work and commitment: Alex Acosta, Alice Belling, Elizabeth Haile, Sara Machir, Joe McGervey, Ryan McNavage, Mark W. Smith and Woody Turner. Your Nominating committee has worked very hard to put forward these exceptionally well-qualified candidates and ensure excellent leadership for our parish in the years to come. Support them in this effort ... Vote!

n Elizabeth Pyke and Elizabeth Vadennominating@columba.org

An Election Primer

ST. COLUMBA’S Newsletter n February 2016 9

ST. COLUMBA’S n Open in Spirit

Parishioners often do not know, or understand, what Stephen Ministry is all about. At its most basic level, it is defined by the fact that no one should suffer alone, ever. Stephen ministers are here for you.

What exactly is a Stephen Minister? One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the “after people.”

Stephen Ministers are there ...… after the phone call you hoped you’d never get.… after the divorce papers are served and the bottom falls out of your life. … after the funeral, when every-one has left and the emotions you’ve held at bay come crashing in on you.… after the doctor says, “I’m sorry, but there’s nothing more we can do.”… after the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home.” … after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away–and the house suddenly seems empty.… after the gavel goes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loved one is led away.

… after the baby arrives, demanding more of you than you ever dreamed possible. … after you find a pink slip with your final paycheck. … after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out. Stephen Ministers are the “after

people.” We are ready to come alongside you–or your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or

relatives–and provide comfort and support for as long after as needed.

If you know of someone who may benefit from the ministry or if you feel called to the ministry as I did, please contact me or Peter Antoci directly. All communications are confidential.

n Jen Heimertstephenleader@columba.org

NO ONE SHOULD SUFFER ALONE

Who are the Stephen Ministers?

Flower Delivery Team Welcomes You!One of the loveliest customs at St. Columba’s is that of taking thebeautiful flowers that decorate the church for our Sunday Eucharists to those who are sick, grieving, celebrating a happy event, or simply deserving of thanks for a special service to the parish. The time commitment involved is to be able to deliver two arrangements on Monday’s approximately once every six weeks.

We extend our deep appreciation to the faithful members of the Flower Delivery team, who week after week

offer their time to continue this tradition. They are Tom Bauder, Jennie Bonney, Christina Clark, Anne Clippinger, Bill Grote, Maureen Hardwick, Susan Higgins, Lanese Jorgenson, Scott Kragie, John McGraw, Nancy McKemie, June Nemeyer, Judi Raak, Kirk Rankin, Susan Ruth, Claudia Townsend and Caroline Willis.

n Judi Raakflowerdelivery@columba.org

Commissioning Stephen Ministers in 2015.

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ST. COLUMBA’S n Deep in Faith

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Nursery School’s Diwali Celebration

42nd Street Fellowship gathering

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Carollers on Decoration Sunday

Even though the snow is drifting outside your window, now is the time to finalize your plans for summer camp.

St. Columba’s Nursery School is gearing up for the summer with a program designed to encourage children to play cooperatively, to learn about their world and to appreciate the wonderful diversity and common threads of life. Find more information at Columba.org.

The Episcopal Diocese of Washington (EDOW) is offering a range of options this year for campers of all ages. The EDOW summer camp program at Lions Camp Merrick, Nanjemoy, MD exists to promote the spiritual and emotional development of children, youth and young adults through the fostering of a safe and positive environment for all. It is the goal of this program to encourage the growth of relationships with self, others, and God.2016 Camp EDOW Dates:Junior Camp (rising 4th-6th graders) July 24-29Middle Camp (rising 7th-9th graders) July 31-Aug. 5

Starting this summer, the diocese will also be offering a new diocesan-wide youth mission experience (youth ages 14-19) the week of June 19-25. EDOW will send 70 adults and youth to rural Appalachia to work with the Appalachia Service Project (ASP) to help make homes warmer, safer and drier. Last summer 49 missioners from three churches in the diocese participated in ASP.

Registration will happen through the CAMPMINDER program where you will be able to pay, get and upload forms, see photos and much more! For all registration questions please contact, Lynn Chernick, Camp EDOW Administrator at camp@edow.org.

Thinking Summer?

LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER ... Come to St. C’s Shrove Tuesday Mardi Gras Party on Feb. 9. Sign up today at: tinyurl.com/STCMardiGras2016Join in the fun by signing up to help out!

ST. COLUMBA’S Newsletter n February 2016 11

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ST. COLUMBA’S DIARY

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ST. COLUMBA’S n Rich in Worship

Children’s Epiphany serviceChildren’s Christmas Eve service

ST. COLUMBA’S n 202-363-4119 n Columba.org12

A WELCOMING

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

THAT SEEKS TO BE

OPEN IN SPIRIT,

DEEP IN FAITH,

RICH IN WORSHIP,

ACTIVE IN SERVICE.Mailed February 2: Dated material. Please deliver promptly.

St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, 4201 Albemarle Street NW, Washington, DC 20016

Periodical PostagePaid at Washington DC

St. Columba’s monthly newsletter (USPS#002559) is published by St. Columba’s Episcopal Church. Second-class postage paid at Washington, DC. Postmaster: Send address changes to St. Columba’s Newsletter, 4201 Albemarle Street NW, Washington, DC 20016.

T H A N K S G I V I N G S

With regret, we report that Dustin Davis, who has served as our operations manager since September 2008, has tendered his resigna-tion effective Feb. 3, 2016. Dustin is leaving St. Columba’s to serve as the director of operations for Ronald McDonald Charities, which runs the two Ronald McDonald Houses in our area. While we will certainly miss Dustin, we appreciate what an exciting opportunity this is for him.

Many parishioners know Dustin as the gateway to our church calendar, and while that has been an important part of his work, he has done much, much more. Dustin supervises our

housekeeping staff and makes sure they have the information they need to have all our rooms clean, set up and ready for use. He handles routine maintenance and has built strong relationships with our plumber, electrician, landscaper, exterminator and other trades persons.

Dustin has also served as our IT manager, supporting both staff and parishioners with their technology needs. Dustin single-handedly oversaw the installation and main-tenance of our Wi-Fi system and he also takes care of our sound systems, both in the Church Nave and Great Hall. Dustin was instrumental in the implementation of our database and has served as our principal data manager. Dustin has also managed our building management system, which controls temperature and building security access.

And Dustin has done all this with grace, professionalism and sense of humor, for which we are all very grateful.

St. Columba’s is pleased to announce that Catherine Olivo, who many of you will remember, has agreed to return to St. Columba’s on an interim basis to assume the operations manager position. Catherine will be able to get up to speed quickly, and her presence will give us some space to think constructively about this position and to conduct a thorough search.

Please take the opportunity to thank Dustin for his contribution to our community and warmly welcome Catherine back to St. C’s.

n Paul Barkettpbarkett@columba.org

Farewell Dustin Davis!

FORGIVENESSA Lent Day of Reflection

Sat., Feb. 27 9 am-3 pm

Led by The Very Reverend Martha Horne

Join Us!

Register @ Columba.org