The Philippianimages.acswebnetworks.com/1/1416/PHILIPPIANSEPTEMBER11.pdf · A Stephen Minister is ready to be that person – to be that confidential, active listener, and compassionate

The Philippian A publication of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church * East Moore & Dry Streets * P.O. Box 10476 * Southport, NC 28461

http://www.stphilipschurch.org * E-Mail: [email protected]

Phone: (910) 457-5643 * Fax: (910) 457-6991 *

Vol. 8, No. 1 September, 2011

From the Rector: Assistant Priest

As you are aware, our 2012 stewardship campaign is upon us. This year, above

and beyond our usual effort to fund the ongoing mission and ministry of St. Philip‟s, we

are asking our members to „step out of the boat‟ in faith toward achieving the goal of

funding the position of an assistant priest. In that regard, I‟ve been asked by the Ste-

wardship Commission to give you some sense of how I spend my time as your rector,

and also share with you some of the expectations for an assistant.

Maybe the easiest way to describe my ministry would be to provide you a series of

bullets listing such duties as preacher, teacher, worship leader, administrator, coordina-

tor, pastor, organizer, encourager, etc. Truth is, I am a generalist. Each day is never

the same. All are, however, filled with some sense of „sameness,‟ such as personal devo-

tions, weekly services, visiting hospitals, the sick, shut-ins, answering emails and snail

mail and visiting newcomers. I spend a significant amount of my time in pastoral coun-

seling, a ministry which I take very seriously. In addition to a lot of reading, regular

correspondence, the writing of articles, agendas and just keeping up with the adminis-

trative and canonical requirements of the church, sermon preparation and the teaching

of Bible classes and forums demand a good bit of my time in prayer and reflection. I

also attend, and serve as chair for different committees and meetings. As an average I

spend two (sometimes three) nights a week attending some sort of committee or group

meeting.

The Canons of the church specifically require that I provide for Christian Educa-

tion for all people, instructing them in their obligations as Christian stewards. I am also

to ensure that persons are prepared for baptism, confirmation and marriage. I assist

our members with plans for burial and in their planning for long term health care and

welfare needs.

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church September, 2011

Page 2

Outside the day-to-day activities of overseeing a staff and coordinating the activi-

ties of numerous guilds, committees and a busy calendar, I also spend time working

with the pastors of other community churches through the InterChurch Fellowship.

Those programs, which include worship activities and our food bank, are well known to

you. I am also involved in our community as Vice-President of New Hope Clinic, a min-

istry that provides health care for indigent and low-income residents of Brunswick

County.

Add to the above my service at the diocesan level on various committees, and

most recently as Dean of the Lower Cape Fear Deanery, and, not unlike many of you, I

am busy.

When I accepted the call as your rector over seven years ago I promised you that

my first priority would be to be your pastor first. That continues to be true. The recent

addition of thirteen fully trained and very capable Stephen Ministers has been a real

blessing in assisting with the pastoral ministry here at St. Philip‟s.

There is more that could be said; but suffice it to say that I, and we, are busy

doing what God has called us to do. Yet, with specific reference to the need for an addi-

tional priest, the question is why do we need one? Our vestry and other staff and lay

ministers are doing a great job, why do we need another priest? Well, there are at least

four reasons I can think of.

The first one is, I need help. As one of our members reminds me, it is not in my

nature to say I cannot do it all. I will admit, that is a challenge for me, but I do know

my limits, and I have reached them.

Secondly, there is a real need for me to be able to share the sacramental ministry

that only a priest is called and ordained to provide. A church the size of St. Philip‟s

(over 600 members) cannot be adequately tended to by one priest. It just isn‟t possible.

The spiritual and pastoral coverage I now provide our members lacks the depth that

only additional time can cure. I yearn to spend more one-on-one time with you in fol-

low-up visits – to better assess and respond to your spiritual needs. To be able to share

the counseling load alone would be a huge benefit to our church family.

Third, an assistant priest would also share the preaching role, assist with teach-

ing, develop their own ministry in and to the Southport community, and offer a fresh,

or differing, perspective on how we pursue mission and ministry.


Page 3

And fourth, an assistant priest would also provide us an opportunity to reach out

more intentionally to our lapsed members, bringing them the additional spiritual assis-

tance they need to become more fully involved in the life of our community.

Add to all of the above other ideas around alternative worship services and a mis-

sion church initiative to reach the significant un-churched population in Brunswick

County and we have more than justified the need for an assistant priest.

Bottom line. There are some important things that cannot at present be done

without sacrificing time spent on something else of equal need. Sometimes a person‟s

need is not met, or something done as well as it could be, because there just isn‟t the

time to do it better. This growing awareness is a God thing. You and I both need an as-

sistant priest.

And finally let me say this. Your vestry and I are well aware of the challenge in-

volved in the hiring of an assistant priest. We are not unaware of the financial uncer-

tainty facing us as individuals, as a community, and as a country. Having said that, we

are also convinced that we have the resources to accomplish that goal. The real ques-

tion is, do we have the faith?

God bless you and remember you are loved!

Fr. Barry+

Bishop Santosh Marray to Visit

One service at 10AM - Luncheon to follow

On Sunday, September 11th, Assisting Bishop Santosh Marray will be our Preacher and Celebrant. He will also confirm/receive 7 members. Since this Sunday is our first Sunday together following the end of our Summer Beach Ministry we will have one service at 10AM followed by a covered dish lun-

cheon at the Community Center. Please bring a covered dish to share. See you there!


Page 4

STEPHEN MINISTRY UPDATE

Partnering in Ministry

Stephen Ministry is a lay caring ministry started in 1975 by Dr. Kenneth Haugk. As a pastor, clinical psychologist, author, and educator, Dr. Haugk saw a great need in his own congregation for assisting people to get through trying times. Since he didn’t have adequate time to spend with every individual, he turned to his congregation for help. Dr. Haugk wanted his venture to be spiritual in nature, so he searched the scriptures for a basis. He chose Acts 6:2-5a, where Stephen was among seven dis-ciples selected to serve among the people, full of faith, and guided by the Holy Spirit. Stephen Ministry was born to bring the body of Christ together as partners in minis-try. Many of us find it difficult to admit when we need assistance, but in fact, realizing that one needs help to get through a life transition or situation, and then seeking that help is a sign of strength, as well as an opportunity to grow personally and spiritually. There is great benefit in talking to an objective person when it isn’t possible or prac-tical to share with a family member or other friend. A Stephen Minister is ready to be that person – to be that confidential, active listener, and compassionate caregiver. So please, call us. We know it can be difficult, but just pick up the phone. You can call the church office and leave a message, call Fr. Barry and discuss your concerns, or call your Stephen Leaders, Gene or Martha Myers.

We want to help, and we want you to know that we are here for you.

(Adapted from Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church, Sunnyvale CA)

Gene & Martha Myers (842-5160) Stephen Leaders


Page 5

September Community Events

September 4: Last outdoor beach service of the season at Register Park on Oak

Island.

September 11: Bishop Santosh Marray will lead a single combined worship service

at 10:00. Our traditional pot luck lunch will follow at the Community Building.

Dishes may be dropped off after 9:00 before the service; parish will provide

fried chicken & beverages

September 18: Regular schedule resumes with worship at 8 AM (alternating Rites I

and II) and 10:30 PM (Rite II) with our choir. Sunday School for youth and the

Rector’s Forum resume at 9:15.

Monthly breakfast prepared by the Men’s Group begins at 8:30 in the Parish

Hall.

Saturday, September 22: PIG PICKIN’ this year is on THE LAWN of St. Philip’s,

sponsored by the vestry at 11:00 AM. Thanks to the City of Southport, Dry

Street will be closed!

Remember to take home your weekly bulletin so you have the latest information about

activities. (Comic is from Church Pension Group)


Page 6

Thank you St. Philip’s! Dear friends,

Thank you very much for the thoughtful farewell reception and gift on Sunday July 31. The food-spread was wonderful and the fellowship-chats with you were equally enjoyable. You are indeed a gracious, warm and loving congregation.

As I said that day, if envy were a Christian virtue, I could enjoy envying Fr. Barry Kubler! I can easily understand why he enjoys serving as your rector. (And you are fortunate having him as your priest! I am glad to know him as a gifted min-istry colleague and brother in Christ.)

The framed Ricky Evans “St. Philip’s Journey” print gift you presented to me already has a prominent display place in our home. It will serve as a beautiful and frequent reminder of having the privilege of journeying with you for eight weeks in the summer of 2011.

May God continue to bless and use St. Philip’s as a channel of blessing to the people of Brunswick County and beyond.

Fondly,

Gerry Blackburn +

A very big Thank You to everyone for the lovely reception and gift of the Ricky Evans artwork of St. Philip's church. It was both a privilege and a pleasure to help fill part of the “gap” while Barry was on Sabbatical. I enjoyed working with Gerry Blackburn and getting to know him, and also doing the two beach services. So thank you again

Lars and I will miss you as we depart to Australia at the end of August. But we will be back next year!

Blessings to you all,

Fiona


Page 7

How I Spent My Summer Vacation

By Brooke Munroe

This summer has helped me gain many things mentally that will help me in my future in

addition to helping me pursue my dreams. I participated in the Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) in

Minnesota and the New York City Pilgrimage (NYCP). From both events I saw how prayer works

and miracles can happen while exploring my relationship with God.

New York was extremely different from what I’m used to. I didn’t walk down the street

knowing everyone who passed by me nor did I wave and smile even if I didn’t know them as I do

here. In New York we did the basic tourists trips (the Statue of Liberty, a Mets game, Ellis Island,

etc.) We also did some out-of-the-ordinary mission work. The place that hosted our group from the

Diocese of East Carolina and a youth group from McKinney, Texas, is called Father’s Heart Minis-

tries. Father’s Heart holds special events for the homeless people in New York City; they provide

classes and breakfast every Saturday morning as well as medical help every six months. Imagine if

you didn’t clean a closet in your house that you use often for twenty years it would get pretty

gross, wouldn’t it? Well at Father’s Heart there were several of those closets as well as built up

grime on the walls. Our job was to have it all clean and sparkling by the end of the day. One day

we worked with the Relief Bus, which feeds homeless people in rough parts of New York and New

Jersey. Stereotypes of the homeless are surprisingly untrue for the most part; they all had intri-

guing stories that they gladly shared. They told their stories with a confidence that you want to

hear what they had to say. This experience really opened my eyes to the power of listening and

positive reinforcement. Many of these people had no idea how to achieve anything with their

heart’s desire simply because they’ve never been told it was possible.

The Episcopal Youth Event was a totally different ball game. Instead of hustle and bustle it

was relaxation and serenity. It was hard at first to be away from home with over 1,000 people from

all over the United States that you didn’t know but we quickly all fell in love with not only the cool

Minnesota air but with each other. Almost everyone put their differences aside as we all became a

giant family; you could feel God in the presence in the songs we sang, the people we met, and the

bonds we all shared. You didn’t worry about not having anything in common since every teenager,

guest speaker, adult leader, and even the Bishops had at least two things in common; we are all

Episcopalian and we all love God. If you asked any participant they would all agree that they would

give up just about anything to be back at that event, or at least I know I would. We were inspired to

go out into the world and make a difference. We made friends with amazing people. We learned

no matter what friends are always providing shoulders to lean on; in your weakest and strongest

moments in life, even if you’ve only known the person for a day or two, friends provide support for

your life.

I would like to thank everyone who helped make this trip possible. They were both astound-

ing experiences that I will remember for the rest of my life. I have learned many extremely valuable

lessons that I may never have learned if it wasn’t for these experiences.


Page 8

From Our Senior Warden

It’s September and a time for new beginnings.

During my forty years in education September has always

been the time to start over and I still feel that way today.

Here at St. Philip’s we will celebrate the start of a new

year of Christian Education and the return of our

wonderful choir. With Fr. Barry’s return from his

sabbatical refreshed and with many new ideas I am sure it

will be an interesting and exciting year.

A special date to mark in your calendar Sunday,

September 11th, that will mark the first visit of Bishop

Marray to St. Philip’s. Be sure to look for more detail on

events surrounding Bishop Marray’s visit.

Photographs for the new St. Philip’s Pictorial Directory will be taken at the

church on September 19th through the 23rd and September 26th through October 1st.

Sign ups for pictures will begin on the first Sunday in August. Remember there is no

cost to you or the church. Each participating family/household will receive one free 8

by 10 portrait and a free directory. Please sign up!

September promises to be an exciting month for the Beers clan. Our youngest

daughter, Emily, is expecting her first child and our 7th grandchild on September 17th,

an auspicious date for the arrival of the 17th member of the clan. Emily and her

husband Kris have decided not to learn the baby’s gender beforehand – just like the

old days. Since first children are often late in arrival, I have chosen September 26th

for the arrival date in the family pool. That is exactly between Emily’s birthday on the

23rd and Carol’s on the 29th – we mathematicians are suckers for averages.

Yours in Christ,

Mo Beers


Page 9

From our Junior Warden

Please Help!

The use of our church facilities at St. Philip's has increased significantly in the past several years. Hardly a day goes by that there is not a meeting, class, meal, or some other activity in one of our church buildings. This increased usage means that there is more cleaning to do.

Our sexton’s position is a part time job. He is limited to 15 hours per

week as dictated by his job description and our budget. Our sexton can do a better job with his regular duties if he doesn’t have

additional work left behind by others. Please help by making sure that when you have a meeting, class, project, or other activity, that you take the time to clean up the area you used. It is very important to keep our church facilities clean. We need your help in doing that. Thank you. Tom Trivett Jr. Warden

The Worship Corner

August! Summer is rapidly drawing to a close. Father Barry has returned from his sabbati-cal following a well-deserved opportunity for rest and renewal. The Summer Concert Series was well-received by the persons in attendance and provided diverse musical selections (from classical to jazz). The beach ministry is in its final weeks of the season with the final service of the season being on September 4th. As we return to our “traditional” service schedule, there are opportunities to assist in the services in the positions of Greeters, Ush-ers, Readers, and Eucharistic Ministers. For those interested in serving as Greeters or Ush-ers, there is a training session scheduled for September 18th between the 8:00 AM and 10:30 services. Those interested in any of these opportunities should contact me, any other member of the Vestry or, as an Usher/Greeter, Gene Myers. Please accept this writing as a personal invitation to join in the service ministries of St. Philip’s.

Peace, always.

John Reinsburrow


Page 10

Stewardship

The return of Father Barry to our congregation led us to think about how much goes on in the

daily workings of our church. Father Gerry was heard to remark to Natasha, "is it always this

busy?"

Yes, it really is always this busy, and that why your Vestry is looking for ways to engage the

services of an assistant priest. With over 600 members and growing there simply is not

enough time in the day for Father Barry to do everything he should be doing. Though most

of us would agree that he makes a yeoman's effort to do as much as is possible.

Many in our congregation recognize this need. In our recent survey approximately 160 of

our members responded that this should be the number one priority of our church.

We will be talking with you to discuss how we could make this happen, hopefully next year.

It will be difficult and will require some sacrifices from each church member but it is some-

thing that we need to face as an organization.

As always comments and suggestions are welcome regarding any issues that you may have

on your mind.

Bill Meiners, Bill Bittenbender

Stewardship Co-Chairs

Report Month: July, 2011

Wayne John, Finance Officer

Month Actual

Month Budget

Month Difference

YTD Actual

YTD Budget

YTD Difference

Revenues $35,860 $36,517 ($656) $240,460 $254,017 ($13,557)

Expenses $32,392 $33,950 $1568 $244,801 $243,738 ($1,063)

Net Revenue

$3468 $2567 $902 ($4341) $10,279 ($14,620)


Page 11

As I was casting about for a topic worthy of a Philippian article I came upon two articles

about hymns that I thought worth sharing. The first was written by the first Bishop of

Liverpool, John Ryle, who was born in 1816 and died in 1900. Ryle was a writer, pastor and

evangelical preacher. The second excerpt was written in 2010 by Hiram Ring, who was born

and raised in Ghana, West Africa, the son of Wycliffe Bible translators. He is a singer and

songwriter who works on writing hymns in Lancaster Pennsylvania. I think you will find both

observations, though written in vastly different time periods, interesting.

Good hymns are an immense blessing to the Church of Christ. I believe the last day alone

will show the world the real amount of good they have done. They suit all, both rich and

poor. There is an elevating, stirring, soothing, spiritualizing effect about a thoroughly good

hymn, which nothing else can produce. It sticks in men’s memories when texts are

forgotten. It trains men for heaven, where praise is one of the principal occupations.

Preaching and praying shall one day cease forever, but praise shall never die. The makers of

good ballads are said to sway national opinion. The writers of good hymns, in like manner,

are those who leave the deepest marks on the face of the Church. (J.C. Ryle)

Hymns are purposeful in a way that many worship songs are not. To read or sing through a hymn is to be struck by theological weight, measured thought, and poetic beauty. Lines flow together simply and harmoniously in an unbroken pattern. It is easy to sense the writer’s care for the gospel and his or her personal experience of the topic at hand. A hymn can explore a particular subject, instruct the worshipper, relate humanity to God, and adore the beauty of God’s character. A good hymn does all this.

This is not to say that worship songs and prayers do not have their place. Perhaps words are the biggest hindrance in that respect; it is very hard to expound upon deep theological concepts within the framework of two verses, a chorus, and possibly a bridge. These are practical constraints of modern worship choruses. It is easier to delve when there are four verses, and yet it can still be difficult. This is why the poetry of the Wesleys and others survives with us, meeting every criteria proposed by James Montgomery.

The hymns that we love to sing are those which pull together the form of verse and melody with words that express beautifully yet simply – through their individual meaning and relationship to each other – the wondrous depth and breadth of God’s immutable charac-ter. This is a subject that could never be exhausted, though we were to write and sing of it for all eternity. We must continue to write hymns. (Hiram Ring, New Old Hymns 2010)

Debbie


Page 12

Opportunities for Children and Youth Christian Formation and Renewal

September 2011

Monday, September 12th 5:30 PM – Jr. Acolyte Training (Parish Hall) 6:15 PM – Sr. Acolyte Training (Parish Hall) Thursday, September 8th 5:00 PM – Christian Education Advisory Committee meeting (Parish Office).

Friday, September 16th 6:30PM – Movie Night ~ Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Choir Room) Sunday, September 18th - Youth Sunday 9:15AM – Sunday School BEGINS! Moses Accepts God’s Call 5:30 PM – Sr. Youth Group (Parish Hall) Monday, September 19th Happenings forms/payment deadline Saturday, September 24th PARISH FAMILY PICNIC 9:00AM - yOUThREACH, St. Peter’s, Washington NC

Sunday, September 25th 9:15 AM – Sunday School, Straws and Bricks in Egypt

With this month’s Philippian Millie and I decided to try separate youth and adult education

calendars for easier reference, and to include specific topics when possible. (ed)


Page 13

Opportunities for Adult Christian

Formation and Renewal,

September 2011

Wednesday, September 7th 10:00 AM –Bible Study, Lectionary for Sunday, Sept 11th (Parish Hall) Thursday, September 8th 5:00 PM – Christian Education Advisory Committee meeting (Parish Office). Monday, September 12th 10:00AM – Seekers Adult Study, “Restoring Relationships" (Parish Hall) Wednesday, September 14th 10:00 AM –Bible Study, Introduction to Islam (Parish Hall) Friday, September 16th 6:30PM – Movie Night ~ Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Choir Room) Sunday, September 18th 9:15 AM – Rector’s Forum, The Emerging Church Wednesday, September 21st 10:00 AM –Bible Study, TBA (Parish Hall) 7:00 PM – Wednesday with Women (Parish Office) Saturday, September 24th PARISH FAMILY PICNIC Sunday, September 25th 9:15 AM – Rector’s Forum, Exorcism Monday, September 26th 10:00 AM –Seekers Adult Study, “Restoring Relationships” (Parish Hall) Wednesday, September 28th 10:00 AM –Bible Study, TBA (Parish Hall)


Page 14


Page 15

aughters are often asked what exactly DOK is. Daughters of the King is a reli-gious order. Each daughter takes a lifetime vow to live by the rule of the order, which includes daily

prayer, service and evangelism. The following is our vi-sion:

Empowered by the Holy Spirit, our vision as Daughters of the King is to know Jesus Christ, to make him known to others, and to become reflections of God's love throughout the world.

Recently we mourned and celebrated the lives of two of our daughters who exemplified this vision and reflected God's love. Bonnie Shurman shared her love and friendship with God and with everyone she met. While on a retreat Bonnie shared a booklet on spiritual exercises A friendship like no other: Experiencing God's amazing embrace. She lived it and helped us all grow in that love and friendship.

Miss Patty Owens our most senior daughter became a daughter at the young age of 94. She continued to pray for others and touched many who visited, even as her health failed.

We thank God and celebrate their lives and ministry.

Rose Dahill President DOK Sarah Smith Chapter

Prayer Shawl News The Prayer Shawl ministry at St. Philip’s is alive and well. We would

like to thank all of people who work diligently at home crocheting,

knitting, or otherwise constructing prayer shawls to be blessed and

then distributed to those in need of a little extra comfort. Many times

we receive cards of gratitude from the recipients of our shawls. There

is never a lack of need so please continue to create these loving gifts.

Also, please consider joining the group that meets in the parish hall on

the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 10:00- 12:00. You don’t need to be an

expert knitter (or crochet) to enjoy the strength that comes from the fellowship shared by

those working towards a common goal. This group is open to all so we hope to see you at our

next meeting.

St. Philip’s Prayer Shawl Ministry

D


Page 16

Islam: An Introduction

Dr. Mike Burke will offer a presentation on Islam to the Bible

Study group on, Sept. 14. Mike has acquired an

understanding of Islam over many years of conversations

with Muslims and with scholars of Islam and the Middle

East, augmented by reading, lectures, and seminars. It is

important for us as both Christians and Americans to have a

basic understanding of Islam, the world’s second- largest religion.

All members of St. Philip’s are welcome to attend whether or not you are a

regular participant in the Wednesday Bible Study group. The lecture is at

10:00 AM, Wednesday, Sept. 14, in the Parish Hall. Questions welcome.

Love without Exception

St. Brendan’s Church, Shallotte, invites the public to hear noted speaker Jack Jezreel. Jezreel challenges Christian communities to become more engaged in the Gospel call to serve, especially among the least among us. Jack Jezreel is the founder and executive director of Just Faith Ministries, a national program-recognized for its potent strategies to empower and organize social ministry.

Thursday, Sept. 29, at 6:00 PM at St. Brendan’s Church, Shallotte


Page 17

YOUTH GROUP NEWS

This year we will have TWO youth groups. One will continue to be for students in

6th – 12th grade and they will meet on the First and Third Sundays of the month

5:30PM – 7:00PM. Their meeting will include a meal. Once a month, a special

guest will be brought in to talk with them about challenges faced by their peer

group in today’s world. A complete list of guest speakers will be mailed out

along with Diocesan Youth Event information. The first meeting for this group

will be Sunday, September 18th at 5:30PM in the Parish Hall.

NEW This year we will have a Junior Youth Group for those students in 3rd – 5th

grade. This group will meet once a month on the first Sunday of the month at

4:00PM – 5:00PM. They will spend time together participating in games de-

signed to encourage team building and outreach projects. The first meeting for

this group will be Sunday, October 2nd at 4:00PM in the Parish Hall.

We look forward to seeing all the children ages 3- ADULTS in Christian Education

on Sundays at 9:15 starting September 18th and our 3rd – 12th grade students at

their youth group meetings as well.


Page 18

Rector‟s Forum Topics

Our Sunday morning forum will consist of a shopping cart of topics. Among them will be

reflections on current events, church history, Holy Scripture and other subjects. All

classes will meet in the Parish Hall at 9:15AM, or in the church office as indicated.

Sunday, Sept. 18th

- “The Emerging Church”

Father Barry will share insights gained from his sabbatical visits

to a variety of emerging churches. We will meet in St. Philip‟s

Church for this presentation.

Sunday, Sept. 25th

- “Exorcism”

*Sunday, Oct. 2nd

- “Comfortable Words”

Sunday, Oct. 9th

- “Wilfred Thomason Grenfell”

Sunday, Oct. 16th -

No Class – One service – Pledge Sunday

Sunday, Oct. 23rd

- “General Thanksgiving”

Sunday, Oct. 30th

- “What‟s new in the Wall Street Journal?”

September Lectionaries

September 4th

Exodus 12:1-14

Psalm 149

Romans 13:8-14

Matthew 18:15-20

September 11th

Exodus 14:19-31

Psalm 114

Romans 14:1-12

Matthew 18:21-35

September 18th

Exodus 16:2-15

Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45

Philippians 1:21-30

Matthew 20:1-16

September 25th

Exodus 17:1-7

Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16

Philippians 2:1-13

Matthew 21:23-32


Page 19

Crisis in the Horn of Africa

Just a quick forward to this note from

Episcopal Relief and Development, as

many of you have followed the

headlines. It is heartening to see the

efforts to not only provide food, but to

also to strengthen local agriculture and

water/soil preservation. Please

support these efforts if you can.

Jake

On July 20, the United Nations

declared a famine in two regions of

southern Somalia. The food shortage is

the consequence of a sustained drought

that is said to be the worst in more than

50 years. Reports indicate that over

800,000 people have fled Somalia as a

result, many seeking refuge in the

neighboring countries of Kenya and

Ethiopia. In response to the developing

crisis, Episcopal Relief & Development will

be working through its network of Anglican

and Episcopal partners to support the

humanitarian work of local organizations

such as Ukamba Christian Community

Services in Kenya.

Amidst the drought, famine and

massive influx of Somali refugees, the

Kenyan government has declared a state

of emergency. According to recent

assessments, national grain stores do not

have enough food to supplement the

meager reserves of local farmers, whose

crops failed this year due to drought. The

food needs of several hundred thousand

refugees cannot be met without outside

assistance. Currently, the government is

trying to address the situation by

supporting the efforts of local non-

government partners, but only a small

section of the population is being reached.

Most of the feeding programs are focused

on school children, excluding parents and

those not in school from receiving critical

nourishment.

Episcopal Relief & Development’s

support will be used to provide food aid

(including maize, beans and cooking oil)

to as many as 1,320 households in four

areas over the next five months. Orphans,

widows and the elderly will receive priority

during distribution. The program will also

support community efforts to prepare the

land for the next rainy season, with soil

and water preservation measures such as

terracing and sand dam construction.

Rains are expected between November

and December 2011.

Please pray for all those affected by

drought and famine in East Africa, and

especially for those who have fled their

homes in search of food and water for

survival. Please also pray for the return of

rains, and healthy harvests in the future.

To support the crisis response

efforts of organizations like Ukamba

Christian Community Services, please

make a contribution to Episcopal Relief &

Development's Disaster Relief Fund.


Page 20

Bazaar Buzz

The bazaar is just a month away! Be sure it is on your calendar – October 1. We have

worked for many years in a combined effort with the ladies of Sacred Heart Catholic Church

to bring this yearly bazaar to the Southport community. Now we are looking for our “buy-

ers” to attend this fabulous bazaar on October 1 from 9 am until 2 pm at Sacred Heart

Catholic Church Fellowship Hall. We will have many wonderful and creative new items to

interest you along with delicious baked goods. So please plan to stop in that day and tell

your neighbors and friends about it.

Until then we still have some work left to do. Our remaining workshop this year is

Pine Cone, Acorn, etc. Workshop , Friday, September 9 - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Ida

Parker‟s – (278-6919) 604 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island. Bring glue guns, ideas for wreaths

or other pine cone items, lunch to share. Call Ida (278-6719) or email ([email protected]) if

you can attend.

BAKE SALE: We are looking for our bakers! Dig out those tempting recipes. We would

like the baked items to be delivered to Sacred Heart on September 30 from 10-1 and on Oc-

tober 1 at 8:30 am. Please contact Carol Parnell ([email protected], 253-5603) or Julie

Skrief ([email protected], 457-1867) with any questions.

Signup Sheets to help the day of the Bazaar will be in the narthex beginning September 4 at

both services and at each Sunday in September. If you prefer, please call Jane (338-0330) to

select your time and “job”. Also, tickets for the RAFFLE items will be on sale at this time

and after every service in September. Sharon Sands ([email protected], 845-2243)

and Jeannie Edens (933-9204) can use some help selling tickets on the Sundays in Septem-

ber

We need some volunteers to help distribute flyers in Southport and Boiling Springs during

week of September 11. We will meet at the Parish Hall at 10:00 and should be finished by

noon. It will either be a Tuesday or a Wednesday but will know date later and will put it in

bulletin. If you can help, contact Jane (338-0330) or Carol Miller (253-9140) or Susan Spann

(854-0047)

We so much appreciate all you are doing to make our Bazaar continue to be a success and

further our outreach efforts.

Jane and Susan

mailto:[email protected]





Page 21

2012 HEART & SOUL AUCTION

Our St. Philip’s family loves and grows together because we collectively know the meaning of reaching out a helping hand – embodied with the love and rewards of such in this verse from “Luke”, 6:38:

Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.

With this thought in mind, our church family is collectively sponsoring the 2012 “Heart & Soul” Auction to raise funds for St. Philip’s outreach activities/initiatives and to help reduce the church’s mortgage commitment level – which in turn will help us target other funds for stimulating our community’s spiritual growth. Our 2012 Heart and Soul auction event will be held just after Valentine’s Day – on Sunday, February 19, 2012 from 4-7 PM at the St. James Community Center – located on 211 across from the gate to St. James. For the Heart & Soul Auction to be a true success – Good measured, pressed down, shaken together, and running over – we all need to pitch in wherever we can. In this light, your Auction Committee needs your support – so please consider volunteering to help by signing up for one of the focused work areas noted here where you can be of service by contacting Shay Watkins--Auction Items; Ida Parker--Food & Beverage; and/or Wanda Luey--Decorations, Setup & Event Logistics. Volunteering now is important as much lead time is needed to assure a truly successful outcome.

Of particular importance now is the need to secure donations of auction Items for both the silent and the live auctions from church members, merchants, and other interested supporters in the local area and beyond – and any and all help and participation you can give starting now in this regard is both essential and will be so greatly appreciated as we seek together to deliver a Heart & Soul Auction that is truly Good Measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

From Your St. Philip’s 2012 Heart & Soul Auction Committee

Shay Watkins – [email protected], (910) 470-0107;

Ida Parker – [email protected] ,(910) 278-6719;

Wanda Luey – [email protected], (910) 253-9354;

Jacquie McNutt – [email protected], (910) 253-4112.






Page 22

Memories September 1st may be the anniversary of me officially starting as the Christian

Education Director at St. Philip’s but I can’t tell you when I actually started work-

ing with youth at St. Philip’s. Sometime in the ‘80s our rector started paying me

out of his pocket to provide nursery care during parish events. I remember when

the nursery moved into the Carr-Jorgenson building and little Rhyne Fairley sit-

ting on my lap looking out the window saying “Daddy will be right back.” Now

Rhyne is married and expecting her first baby this month.

After Beth was born, I started teaching Sunday school. Seems like every time I

would teach a Sunday School class it was always the group that Meredith Skill-

man and Kate Burton were in. Those two always provided lots of entertainment.

I remember taking a youth group to Kinston for a Diocesan Youth Conference.

Sweet Anna Powell asked to borrow my car keys so she could get something out

of my car. When I walked outside to see what was taking so long, I found her

driving my car around the block.

These are all memories that I would not otherwise have if I had not worked with

these young ladies (yes there are some stories about the boys but it’s harder to

put some of my memories of Ron Funderburke into print.) We have so many op-

portunities for you to build memories with our young people (and trust me, they

are a memorable group!) Below I have listed opportunities for you to build your

memories with our children.

The most obvious way to work with our kids is by teaching Sunday

School. We need a total of 16-20 people to teach. Each team rotates so

you don’t have to be there every week and since there are at least four

teachers for each class, you don’t have to prepare the lesson each time ei-

ther.

You can become a youth leader. We have two youth groups; one for the

3rd-5th grade students and one for the 6th-12th grade students. Again, this

is a situation where you don’t have to be the one responsible for the pro-


Page 23

gram each time. With enough volunteers, we can even rotate the months

that you would meet with the group.

You can cook a meal for the kids. We feed acolytes once a month and

youth groups twice a month. Provide a meal and join us for dinner.

Be a Guardian Angel. Each year we pair adults with our students aged 3

years –college students. I’ve seen some of these relationships continue for

many years after the initial time.

Be a part of the Christmas Play! We will start early this fall working on

our Christmas Play which will be presented Friday, December 16th.

Be a chaperone at a Diocesan Youth Event. Starting this fall we have to

send at least one adult from our parish with each 6 youth attending a Dio-

cesan Youth Event. These events are always full of energy and a great way

to bond with our kids.

Attend Movie Night. Each month we show a family friendly film in the

choir room. It is a very relaxed evening of fun and good popcorn. Often

the films are ones you may not be willing to go see without a child when

released in the theaters.

Of course, the easiest way to make a memory with our children is to get to

know them. While you are creating a memory, you will also be strengthening a

child’s connections to their church family. It really is the best Win-Win situa-

tion. As a friend put it “Jacob was a cheater, Peter had a temper, David had an

affair, Noah got drunk, Jonah ran from God, Paul was a murderer, Gideon was

insecure, Miriam was a gossiper, Martha was a worrier, Thomas was a doubter,

Sara was impatient, Elijah was moody, Moses stuttered, Zaccheus was short,

Abraham was old, and Lazarus was dead…. Now what’s your excuse?”

To volunteer for ANY of these programs, contact me in the parish office at

910.457.5643 or email [email protected]. I promise that if you catch

me in the narthex on a Sunday morning, my mind will be on so many different

issues that I will most likely forget before Monday morning.

Millie



Page 24

We are STILL in need of 10 more people to work three hours a month as a Sunday School

Teacher. Sunday school teachers are teamed four teachers per class so no one person has to be

present every Sunday. We are required to have at least two adults per class every week. Teach-

ers are provided an easy to follow curriculum and all the needed supplies for their class. In

compliance with new Diocesan guidelines, all people interested in teaching Sunday school need

to complete an application which is available on the parish website or from Millie in the parish

office. All applications must be turned in before September 6th.

Individual & Team Responsibilities:

To maintain a personal relationship with Jesus Christ

Worship regularly with the congregation

Complete online Safe Church Training (if not already completed)

Submit application to parish office

Pray regularly for each child and others on your teaching team

Participate in scheduled teacher’s meetings (no more than three a year)

Follow curriculum provided allowing time for planning and preparation before every les-

son each week.

Express needs or concerns as a teacher to Director or CEAC Sunday school representative

Find a substitute teacher in advance if you know of an upcoming absence.

Sunday Morning Responsibilities:

Arrive in the classroom early, in order to prepare materials and arrange the room

Greet each child upon their arrival and involve him/her in conversation and meaningful

activity

Model the love of Christ by getting to know children and sharing their concerns, needs

and joys.

Guide learning by:

o Being well prepared to use Bible stories, questions and comments appropriate to

the age level in order to accomplish the lesson aims

o Select a variety of learning activities, knowing that each child learns differently

while encouraging each child to actively participate (options for different learning

activities are included in each week’s lesson plans)

o Participate with children in the learning activities.


Page 25

Cooks Wanted

We are looking for volunteers to help prepare a monthly

meal for the acolytes and youth group at St. Philip’s. We

need volunteers to prepare a simple meal for 15 – 20 people for these

gatherings. The acolytes meet on the first Monday and the youth typi-

cally meet on the first and third Sunday of the month. If you would like

to help, please fill out the form below. Contact Millie in the Parish of-

fice at 457.5643 or [email protected] with any questions.

___I can cook a meal on the following night:

Name_____________________________________________

Contact Info: (email or phone)___________________________

Monday, September 12th Sunday, November 6th

Sunday, September 18th Monday, November 7th

Sunday, October 2nd Sunday, November 20th

Monday, October 3rd Sunday, December 4th

Sunday, October 16th Monday, December 5th

Sunday, December 18th



Page 26

SIGN UP FOR ST. PHILIP’S SUPPER CLUBS!

Are you looking for a way to become better acquainted with your fellow pari-

shioners while you enjoy good food and good company? If so, Supper Clubs are

for YOU!

Informal gatherings of 6-8 people, these suppers offer an excellent way to get to

know one another. Groups meet once a month for a meal and fellowship. A list

of substitutes is available if some member of your regular group cannot attend.

As long as space allows, groups are encouraged to make room for newcomers.

Transportation can be arranged.

DINE IN:

Name(s)

Phone #

Would like to be a full participant Substitute

The host/hostess is responsible for:

Providing the main course and perhaps an extra dish

Providing beverages. Others bring appetizer, salad, and dessert.

DINE OUT:

Name(s)

Phone #

Would like to be a full participant Substitute

DEADLINE FOR SIGN UP IS SEPTEMBER 18TH. Supper clubs will meet first in Oc-

tober or November, at which time each group will set meeting dates for the fol-

lowing months.

You don’t have to sign up as a couple – singles are welcome.


Page 27

September Birthdays

1st William Engelhart

Pat Gorsline

Bill Bittenbender

2nd Margaret Hunter

Ward Newcomb

Mark Williams

3rd Jo Melcher

Garth Edwards

Bryn MacKenzie

4th Roy Mitchell

Evelyn Wharton

Lu Wilson

Terry Acker

Bella Hofmann

Barry Kubler

7th Chuck Yartz

Bailey Rickman

8th George Myers

Linda Smith

9th Max Williams

Hope Marie Copeland

Gabriella Vacirca

10th Bryan Wester

Hailey Robinson

11th Carol Owens

12th Carol Moore

Charles Audette

13th Bobbie Lewis

14th Evelyn King

John Redington

15th Bob Youngblood

Tom Parnell

16th Ruth Carver

Becky Funderburke

18th Paul Pittenger

Pat Cremins

Julia Baldiga

19th Richard Glielmi

Joe Loflink

Donald Reynolds

Sheila Yartz

Hailey Esakov

20th Wanda Ratliffe

21st Priscilla Wheeler

Wanda Luey

22nd Bonnie Thomas

24th Martha Lai

25th Kaye Mann

Joan Hayes

26th Elizabeth Ziblut

27th Tricia Hill

28th Joan Forrester

Rachel Teeters

Pam Frandano

29th Carol Beers

Church Organization

Bishop of the Diocese of East Carolina: The Rt. Rev. Clifton Daniel III

Assisting Bishop: The Rt. Rev. Santosh Marray

Rector: The Rev. Barry P. Kubler Organist/Choirmaster: Debbie Skillman

Parish Secretary: Natasha Tatum Sexton: George Ball

Deacon: Henrietta Williams Communications Coordinator Lyn Sutton

Director of Christian Education: Millie Hart Episcopal Relief & Development

Stephen Leaders: Martha & Gene Myers Representative: Jacob Pfohl

Vestry

Senior Warden: Mo Beers Clerk: Dana Richardson

Junior Warden: Tom Trivett Finance Officer: Wayne John

2009-2011: Mo Beers, Linda Brinson, Bill Meiners, John Reinsburrow

2010-2012: Bill Bittenbender, Joan Hayes, Tina Powers, Tom Trivett

2011-2013: Debbie Evans, Thomas Harrelson, Jake Pfohl, Lorraine Richardson

Philippian

Mike & Kathy Burke Email: [email protected]

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church

East Moore & Dry Streets

PO Box 10476

Southport, NC 28461

Return Service Requested

Southport NC 28461

US Postage Paid

Permit #10

NON-PROFIT


Documents

The Philippianimages.acswebnetworks.com/1/1416/PHILIPPIANSEPTEMBER11.pdf · A Stephen Minister is ready to be that person – to be that confidential, active listener, and compassionate