Christian Formation for June 3, 2012 - Isaiah 6:1-8, A Vision of God in the Temple

Jun 3, 2012, 1 Pentecost

Isaiah 6:1-8

A Vision of God in the Temple

Background: Isaiah was a prophet in Judah in the era of the destruction of the Northern tribe. He was one of the principal advisors to King Ahaz and the text holds a special place in both Hebrew and Christian Scripture. This passage is the beginning of a section of Isaiah’s call subtitled the Testimony of Isaiah with this passage providing justification for Isaiah’s vocation.

Theme: In this passage, we see details of God’s grandeur and interaction with Isaiah. Isaiah details a vision of God’s presence and the immensity of God and God’s power. This passage also helps show Isaiah’s personal calling by God and his preparation for God’s ministry.

Questions to Ponder

* Briefly describe the situation in the nation of Israel; describing the social, political, religious, and international relations.

* What are your first impressions of this passage? What do you think the writer is attempting to convey with the imagery provided?

* Where does Isaiah “work” as a prophet?

* Who was Uzziah and what was his relationship to Ahaz? Why might their relationship be important to the story of Isaiah? Why do you think Isaiah is receiving a commission by God “in the year King Uzziah died”?

* What do you think Isaiah was “seeing” when he describes the image beginning in verse 6:1b?

* What is a Seraph? Why might there be seraph (plural seraphim) attending to God in the image? What was the function of a Seraph?

* For what reason might the Seraph use their wings to (1) cover their face, (2) cover their feet, and (3) fly? What would the purpose of coving their face be? What about covering their feet?

* To what might Isaiah be referring when he describes the “high and lofty throne”?

* What might the implication be to Isaiah when he sees God’s hem filling the temple? Which temple might Isaiah be referring to?

* How should the description of God illuminate our relationship with God today?

* What were the pivots of the threshold? What would it mean if the pivots shook?

* When translating the hymn of glory in 6:3b, there are alternate translations, one which has a comma following the third holy and the other does not. What might the addition or deletion of the comma mean with regard to the intent of the hymn?

* Why might it be important for Isaiah to “see the King, the Lord of hosts!”? How is his seeing the Lord different than other Old Testament prophets? Do you think Isaiah actually saw God’s face?

* Why might the Seraph have touched a live coal to Isaiah’s lips?

* What message is Isaiah volunteering to carry from God? Why might it be important to have his lips cleansed by God? Is there another reference to clean or unclean lips in Isaiah?

* What might the phrase “Here I am; send me!” be reminiscent of?

* What is the prophet Isaiah signing up for in this passage?

* What are the implications of the passage for us today?

St. John's e-News for Sunday May 27, 2012 - The Sunday of the Pentecost: Whitsunday

Pentecost Sunday is this Week – We will worship this coming Sunday, May 27^th at the Pond Altar, weather permitting. This Sunday is the celebration of Pentecost and all in attendance are invited to wear RED in honor of the coming of the Holy Spirit on that first Pentecost. This would be a good day to bring a friend to church to see the liveliness and appreciate the serenity of St. John’s. It is also recommended to prepare for flying insects and dose up with mosquito repellant. Chairs will be available but if you have a favorite outdoor chair please feel free to bring it.

Formation Survey – A survey of the Parish’s Formation desires has been printed. Please take the time to fill out the questionnaire which covers both current Adult Formation issues as well as looking forward to Youth Formation in the coming years.

______________________________________________________________
May 27, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II
Lessons for the Day of Pentecost: Whitsunday
First Lesson:  Ezekiel 37:1-14
Psalm:  104:25-35, 37
Second Lesson:  Acts 2:1-21
Gospel:  John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15

Lay Participants for May 27, 2012 - 10:30 am service

Eucharistic Minister:  To Be Determined
Lector:  Ben
Prayers:  Marlene
Ushers:  Gary and Marcella
Nursery Attendant:  Taylor
Nursery Assistant:  Lynn

Refreshments:  Marlene

Sermon for Sunday, May 20: http://chirb.it/zLwx3H

______________________________________________________________
Worship Assistants – There are always openings for volunteers to assist with worship. Please prayerfully consider is God is calling you to help as a (1) Eucharistic Minister, (2) Lector, (3) Prayer Leader, (4) Usher, (5) Altar and Flower Guild, and/or (6) Nursery Assistant. There is formal training for Eucharistic Minister and Nursery Assistant. Training can be provided for the other positions as needed. If you feel called to serve please contact the Rector or the Church Office.

Formation Classes – This coming Sunday we will discuss our Old Testament reading Ezekiel 37:1-14, “The Valley of the Dry Bones” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our Old Testament reading Isaiah 6:1-8, “A Vision of God in the Temple.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday. A reminder; there is nursery service available during the education hour.

Fellowship Hour – “I can’t host post-service refreshments…” is a phrase often heard. However, once people understand what is required for refreshment hour they realize assisting is much easier than they thought. In principle, the refreshment hour is something to snack on during post-service fellowship. There is no expectation of an elaborate meal – in fact, the majority of the time simple is more appreciated than more complicated.

          When it comes to refreshments they may include things like fruit; cookies or crackers (with or without cheese); maybe a few vegetables; and beverages. For beverages the parish has coffee, leaving one or two choices to be provided. Possibilities include tea, juice, lemonade, and ice water.
          Please consider assisting with refreshments – anyone can do it. If you have any questions contact Marcella.

Wednesday Book Study – Special thanks to all who participated in the Book Study for this past year. When we restart our classes in the fall we will be studying “The Bible that Jesus Read” by Philip Yancey. I hope that all enjoy the summer recess and come back in the fall, energized to study anew.

Pastoral Care Volunteers Needed – Have you ever wished you had someone to lend an ear or ease a burden? If so, I encourage you to consider becoming a Pastoral Care provider. There are no special skills required, simply the ability to be present with another member of our church family to ease their burdens. If you feel called to assist please contact the Rector.

          We have had a little response and we request you prayerfully consider this ministry. If you have any questions about the ministry contact the Rector.

Today’s Psalm – We will do something a little different today, we will say the Psalm responsively. This will be a bit of a change for us, the first time in who knows how long, enjoy the change.

Olan Mills Directories - The 2012 directories have been delivered and are available for pick-up in the Parish Office. If you had a photo taken or submitted, please stop by and pick up book. If you didn’t have photo taken there are extra copies available. Please see the Rector.

Thought for the week – Trust: Jesus has come to save us, salve us, salvage us. Jesus finds his way to us. We don’t find Jesus; he finds us, we who are prone to get lost in life. That’s the way it is with Jesus.

-Br. Curtis Almquist

Society of Saint John the Evangelist

______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Sun. May 27^th        Pentecost (Pond Altar)
Mon. May 28^th        Memorial Day holiday (Office closed)
Fri. Jun. 1^st            St. Mark’s Hampton Vestry Retreat (tentative) through
                             Sat. Jun. 2^nd
Sat. Jun. 2^nd          Diocesan Communicators Training – 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
                             (St. Stephen’s Newport News)
Fri. Jun. 8^th           James River Rug Hookers – Parish Hall
Sat. Jun. 9^th          * James River Rug Hookers – Parish Hall
                             * Diocesan Deacon Ordination – 11:00 am (St. Andrews Newport
                             News)
                             * Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry
                             * Union of Black Episcopalians “Bishop’s Ball” – 6:30-11:30 pm
                             (Waterside Marriott, Norfolk)
Mon. Jun. 18^th        Rector’s Continuing Education through June 22^nd – Virginia
                             Theological Seminary (Alexandria VA)
Sat. Jun. 23^rd        Rector’s Vacation through July 5^th
____________________________________________________________
Community Church Websites:
New Community Christian Center                      http://www.nccfamily.us
Oakland Christian Church (UCC)                       http://www.oaklandchristianchurch.com/
Perfecting Saints Church of God in Christ       http://www.pscogic.com/
Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church         http://www.wesleychapelchuckatuck.org
Ebenezer United Methodist Church                 http://ebumc.net/

PASTORAL CARE

Pray for Katherine, our presiding bishop; Holly, our bishop; and Les our priest.

St. John’s shut-ins, Marianne, Meriwether, Allen, David, Shirley, Suzanne, Janis, Dominique, Virginia, Lon, Luann, Faye and family, Carter and family, Foster family, Marvin, Sally, Bill, Heather, Pat, Elsie, Charles, Barbara, Tina, Kathleen and her son Fergal, Will, and Roger.

Serving in the Armed Forces: David, Bryan, Susan, Aaron, Kevin, and Elizabeth

Parish Cycle of Prayer: John & Anne
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: Christ Church, Smithfield; Sam Webster - Vice Chancellor; St. Barnabas', Richmond; The Rev. Canon Ed & Lee Tracy.

Anglican Cycle of Prayer: La Iglesia Anglicana de Mexico (The Anglican Church of Mexico); The Most Rev. Carlos Touche-Porter Presiding Bishop of La Iglesia Anglicana de Mexico & Bishop of Mexico.

Flowers are given to the Glory of God by Nick and Tina.

Birthdays in May

Claudia 10                   Margaret 10
Willis 10                      Steve 14
Sterling 15                   Christine 17
Mary 22                       Bert 24

Anniversaries in May

Susan & Jim 14           Joe & Mary-Margaret 24
Alan & Sarah 25         Dennis & Rusty 31

If you are in need of Pastoral Care,

Please call Father Ferguson.
Cell:  757-418-0063

Contact Music Minister Roger Peyton

Website: http://StJohnsSuffolk.blogspot.com

Follow us on Facebook:
St. John’s Episcopal Church, Suffolk VA
https://www.facebook.com/pages/St-Johns-Episcopal-Church-Suffolk-VA/176697562360854

Christian Formation for Sunday May 27 - The Valley of the Dry Bones: Ezekiel 37:1-14

May 27, 2012, Day of Pentecost

Ezekiel 37:1-14

The Valley of Dry Bones

Background: The prophet Ezekiel is relatively unique in Old Testament literature because many of his oracles are assigned relatively precise dates. The concrete dating of the oracles suggests an understanding of the historical context is necessary for understanding Ezekiel’s prophecies. The timeframe for this book is most certainly 593-571 B.C. with the majority of the oracles falling between 593 and 585 B.C. Ezekiel is a contemporary of the prophet Jeremiah and this book must be seen against the background provided by Jeremiah.

Theme: This passage is found in a subsection of Ezekiel title “Oracles of Hope and Restoration.” It is likely these oracles were formulated after the Exile to Babylon. Further, this passage prophesies the restoration of Israel to its former status as the chosen people of God.

Questions to Ponder

* Please skim Ezekiel 1:1-3:15 paying attention to the setting and differences between that passage and this one.

* Briefly describe the political, religious, and social situation in Israel.

* Briefly describe what you know about Ezekiel, his tribe, his occupation, etc.

* Where do you think Ezekiel was when he provided this oracle? To whom do you think this oracle was given?

* What do you think is meant by Ezekiel being “transported by the spirit” to the valley with dry bones? Do you think he was physically transported or simply provided a vision of the valley? Do you think this is the same valley described in Ezek 1:1-3:15? Why or why not?

* What is striking about the bones?

* What do you think the “wind” is in this passage? Do you think that Ezekiel could command the wind? What is the imagery of the wind here reminiscent of in other passages in scripture?

* Do you think God was asking the prophet a trick question when God asked “can these bones live?” Do you think Ezekiel thought the question may be more rhetorical than literal? Why or why not?

* What do you think is the purpose of God’s reaction to Ezekiel’s response “O Lord God, you know.”?

* Why do you think God told Ezekiel to prophesy to the dry bones?

* How is the end of God’s command to Ezekiel “…and you shall know that I am the Lord” reminiscent of previous interactions between God and humanity?

* How does God’s reaction to Ezekiel impact us today?

* Why do you think it was important to have Ezekiel pronounce both God’s judgment that led to the exile and now the assurance of restoration?

* Do you think the image described is a real image or simply an allegory?

* Why might God have given an oracle describing the nation of Israel as the valley of dry bones? What might the reanimation of the bones describe to the Israelites?

* Do you think this passage describes the resurrection of the dead? Why or why not?

* What are the words of hope to the Israelites provided by the oracle? What are our words of hope in this passage?

* What are the implications of this passage for our ministry?

Sermon for Sunday May 20, 2012 - the 7th Sunday of Easter

Greetings on the Sunday after the Ascension. We are rapidly closing in on the end of the Easter Season, it is hard to believe how fast it has arrived. There have been signs of new life and families with children in our midst regularly. We have continued to look at the miracle of Jesus in our life and where we are called to serve. Today's sermon was entitled "Our response to the Authority of Scripture."

Be sure to join us next weekend at the Pond Altar for Pentecost.

Les+

http://chirb.it/zLwx3H

St. John's e-News for Sunday May 20, 2012 - the 7th Sunday of Easter

Parish Communications Liaison – The Diocesan Office is looking for a volunteer from each Parish or church to serve as a liaison Ann Turner, the Diocesan Communications Officer. There are no especially difficult tasks associated with the position; being a point of contact in the Parish to ensure Diocesan electronic communications is available to all parishioners. Please see the Rector for more information and to volunteer.

Music/Liturgy Planning Team – A team meeting will be held in the Parish Hall following Worship today. Please feel free to join the music planning for the coming months.

______________________________________________________________
May 20, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II and a Public Service of Healing
Lessons for the 7^th Sunday of Easter
First Lesson:  Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Psalm:  1
Second Lesson:  1 John 5:9-13
Gospel:  John 17:6-19

Lay Participants for May 20, 2012 - 10:30 am service

Eucharistic Minister:  Terry
Lector:  Kevin
Prayers:  Bernice
Ushers:  Nick and Tina
Nursery Attendant:  Taylor
Nursery Assistant:  Anne/Bert

Refreshments:  Tina

Sermon for Sunday, May 13: http://chirb.it/nOtvmL

______________________________________________________________
Formation Classes – This coming Sunday we will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, “Mathias Chosen to Replace Judas” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our Old Testament reading Ezekiel 37:1-14, “The Valley of the Dry Bones.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday. A reminder; there is nursery service available during the education hour.

Coffee Hour/Lemonade on the Lawn – “I can’t host post-service refreshments…” is a phrase often heard. However, once people understand what is required for refreshment hour they realize assisting is much easier than they thought. In principle, the refreshment hour is something to snack on during post-service fellowship. There is no expectation of an elaborate meal – in fact, the majority of the time simple is more appreciated than more complicated.

          When it comes to refreshments they may include things like fruit; cookies or crackers (with or without cheese); maybe a few vegetables; and beverages. For beverages the parish has coffee, leaving one or two choices to be provided. Possibilities include tea, juice, lemonade, and ice water.
          Please consider assisting with refreshments – anyone can do it. If you have any questions contact Marcella.

Wednesday Book Study – On Wednesday, May 23 we will discuss chapter 6, “Love, Actually: I look for the resurrection of the dead.” Following the final session we will hold our year-end potluck luncheon. If you would like to participate, attend the luncheon, or have a copy of the book please contact the Rector.

Today’s Psalm – We will sing the portion of the Psalter in unison. We will use a metrical version of the Psalter from A New Metrical Psalter by Christopher Webber as we sing Psalm 1 together. The Psalm will be set to Hymn 380, From all that dwell below the skies (Old Hundredth) from the Hymnal 1982. The words and music will be found on a bulletin insert.

Pastoral Care Volunteers Needed – Have you ever wished you had someone to lend an ear or ease a burden? If so, I encourage you to consider becoming a Pastoral Care provider. There are no special skills required, simply the ability to be present with another member of our church family to ease their burdens. If you feel called to assist please contact the Rector.

          We have had a little response and we request you prayerfully consider this ministry. If you have any questions about the ministry contact the Rector.

Pentecost Sunday – Our annual Pentecost celebration will take place at the pond altar next Sunday, May 27^th. Due to the proximity of Memorial Day the Parish Picnic will be delayed for a few weeks until June 17^th. Please come on the 27^th and WEAR RED. If the weather is not suitable for an outdoor service we will hold worship in the church. This would be a good day to bring a friend to church to see the liveliness and appreciate the serenity of St. John’s. It is also recommended to prepare for flying insects and dose up with mosquito repellant. Chairs will be available but if you have a favorite outdoor chair please feel free to bring it.

Olan Mills Directories - The 2012 directories have been delivered and are available for pick-up in the Parish Office. If you had a photo taken or submitted, please stop by and pick up book. If you didn’t have photo taken there are extra copies available. Please see the Rector.

Thought for the week – New: Church is not essentially about being “old-timey”. Church is about living into a new vision: God’s vision of radical inclusion, God’s very expansive catholicity.

-Br. Mark Brown

Society of Saint John the Evangelist

______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Thu. May 17^th         Diocesan Fresh Start Graduation Day – 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
                             (Camp Chanco)
Sat. May 19^th         Armed Forces Day
                             Christian Music Jubilee Concert – Magnolia United Methodist
                             Church 6:00-8:00 pm
Sun. May 27^th        Pentecost (Pond Altar)
Mon. May 28^th        Memorial Day holiday (Office closed)
Sat. Jun. 9^th          Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry
                             Union of Black Episcopalians “Bishop’s Ball” – 6:30-11:30 pm
                             (Waterside Marriott, Norfolk)
Mon. Jun. 18^th        Rector’s Continuing Education through June 22^nd – Virginia
                             Theological Seminary (Alexandria VA)
Sat. Jun. 23^rd        Rector’s Vacation through July 5^th
____________________________________________________________
Community Church Websites:
New Community Christian Center                      http://www.nccfamily.us
Oakland Christian Church (UCC)                       http://www.oaklandchristianchurch.com/
Perfecting Saints Church of God in Christ       http://www.pscogic.com/
Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church         http://www.wesleychapelchuckatuck.org
Ebenezer United Methodist Church                 http://ebumc.net/

PASTORAL CARE

Pray for Katherine, our presiding bishop; Holly, our bishop; and Les our priest.

St. John’s shut-ins, Marianne, Meriwether, Allen, David, Shirley, Suzanne, Janis, Dominique, Virginia, Lon, Luann, Faye and family, Carter and family, Foster family, Marvin, Sally, Bill, Heather, Pat, Elsie, Charles, Tina, and Kathleen and her son Fergal.

Thanksgiving: for Lon Bickham’s transfer from the hospital to a Rehab facility.

Serving in the Armed Forces: David, Bryan, Susan, Aaron, Kevin, and Elizabeth
Parish Cycle of Prayer: Mark
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: Good Shepherd, Richmond; James Sitzler - Chanco Staff; St. George's, Pungoteague.

Anglican Cycle of Prayer: Anglican Communion Sunday.

Flowers are given to the Glory of God by Fred and Marlene.

Birthdays in May

Claudia 10                   Margaret 10
Willis 10                      Steve 14
Sterling 15                   Christine 17
Mary 22                       Bert III  24

Anniversaries in May

Susan & Jim 14           Joe & Mary-Margaret 24
Alan & Sarah 25         Dennis & Rusty 31

If you are in need of Pastoral Care,

Please call Father Ferguson.
Cell:  757-418-0063

Contact Music Minister Roger Peyton

Website: http://StJohnsSuffolk.blogspot.com

Follow us on Facebook:
St. John’s Episcopal Church, Suffolk VA
https://www.facebook.com/pages/St-Johns-Episcopal-Church-Suffolk-VA/176697562360854

Christian Formation for Sunday May 20 - Acts 1:15-26 Matthias Replaces Judas

May 20, 2012, 7^th Sunday of Easter

Acts 1:15-17, 21-26

Matthias Chosen to Replace Judas

Background: The Acts of the Apostles continues the story of Jesus’ life portrayed in the Gospel of Luke. This book emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the divinity of Jesus; heavy emphasis is placed on tying all Jesus did to the Old Testament prophets. It has been said that Luke’s intent was to show the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus were both real and preordained by God.

Theme: The Apostles attempt to regroup following Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Their first mission is to fill out the band of the apostles to replace Judas who betrayed Jesus and ultimate met an untimely death. This passage helps define what it means to be an Apostle and what the principle mission of the Apostles should be.

Questions to Ponder

* Please read the omitted portion of the passage, verses 18-20.

* Why do you think Peter claimed “…scripture had to be fulfilled…”?

* What passages do you think Peter was claiming as David’s prediction that Judas would be the one who betrayed Jesus? Do you think the writer of those passages was speaking about Judas or some other person in history? Do you think the identity of the person being described is important for the message of the passage(s)?

* What does it mean to be an Apostle (ἀπόστολος {apóstolos}), at least in Luke’s definition of an Apostle?

* Why do you think it was important to replace Judas as an Apostle? Why wouldn’t the other Apostles have been specifically replaced after their martyrdom or death (or abandonment of the faith)?

* What, in this passage, was essential for a person to be identified as an Apostle? Do you think the selection of Matthias as successor to Judas filled this requirement?

* What do you find interesting, if anything, about there being [at least] 120 people who had been identified as being with Jesus “from his baptism by John until he was taken up into heaven”? Does that seem consistent with other stories in the gospel and Acts? Why or why not?

* What does Peter state as the principle mission of an Apostle? How, if at all, is this mission different than the mission of Jesus’ Disciples?

* For what reason would the Apostles have “cast lots for them [Matthias and Barsabbas]” to determine which was chosen to replace Judas?

* Do you think it was chance that selected Matthias as successor to Judas? Why or why not?

* Why do you think the Apostles were limited to 12, especially considering that there were as many as 120 who had been with Jesus since his baptism until his resurrection?

* What are the purposes of the Apostles and the Disciples? How do those purposes translate into our society?

* How do we know whether we are called to be Apostles or Disciples of Christ today?

* What is the application of this passage for us today?

Sermon for Sunday May 13 - 6th Sunday of Easter

Happy Mother's Day! It was a nice day for a double celebration - Mother's Day and Rogation Sunday. We were "recovering" from the Bishop's visitation last week but had 6 little ones at church today! Today was a continuing focus on the way in which the Resurrection spurs us to action in our community and in the world. Today's sermon entitled "Faith in Jesus' being the Messiah helps us conquer the world" is attached. Comments and likes appreciated.
Les+

http://chirb.it/nOtvmL

St. John's e-News for Sunday May 13 - the 6th Sunday of Easter

Bishop’s Visitation – I’d like to offer a special thank you to all who made the Bishop’s visit last Sunday a huge success. A special thank you to all the cooks who made one of the better Potluck luncheons the Bishop has had the pleasure to eat in a long time.
          We also give a hearty welcome to Linda Harms who was received by Bishop Holly during the service. It is nice to “officially” have her as a member in the Episcopal Church.

Parish Communications Liaison – The Diocesan Office is looking for a volunteer from each Parish or church to serve as a liaison Ann Turner, the Diocesan Communications Officer. There are no especially difficult tasks associated with the position; being a point of contact in the Parish to ensure Diocesan electronic communications is available to all parishioners. Please see the Rector for more information and to volunteer.

Diocesan Connection and the e-News – The Diocesan newsletter is available online at http://images.acswebnetworks.com/1/2279/MayJune2012DiocesanConnection.pdf. If you are not already receiving the Diocesan e-News you can register on the Diocesan webpage at: http://diosova.org in the upper right corner of the front page.

______________________________________________________________
May 13, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II
Lessons for the 6^th Sunday of Easter
First Lesson:  Acts 10: 44-48
Psalm:  98
Second Lesson:  1 John 5:1-6
Gospel:  John 15:9-17

Lay Participants for May 13, 2012 - 10:30 am service

Eucharistic Minister:  Jim
Lector:  Suze
Prayers:  Suze
Ushers:  Steven and David
Nursery Attendant:  Khristina
Nursery Assistant:  Jen/Burr

Refreshments:  Bernice

Sermon for Sunday, April 29: http://chirb.it/mmczCx

No audio sermon for Sunday, May 6
______________________________________________________________
Formation Classes – This coming Sunday we will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 10:44-48, “Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, “Mathias Chosen to Replace Judas.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday.

Wednesday Book Study – On Wednesday, May 16 we will discuss chapter 5, “God in Company: And I believe in one catholic and apostolic church.” Our final session for the spring term will be May 23^rd where we will study the final chapter and have a year-end potluck luncheon. If you would like to participate or have a copy of the book please contact the Rector.

Today’s Psalm – We will sing the portion of the Psalter in unison. We will use a metrical version of the Psalter from A New Metrical Psalter by Christopher Webber as we sing Psalm 98 together. The Psalm will be set to Hymn 493, O for a thousand tongues to sing (Azmon) from the Hymnal 1982. The words and music will be found on a bulletin insert.

Pastoral Care Volunteers Needed – Have you ever wished you had someone to lend an ear or ease a burden? If so, I encourage you to consider becoming a Pastoral Care provider. There are no special skills required, simply the ability to be present with another member of our church family to ease their burdens. If you feel called to assist please contact the Rector.

          We have had a little response and we request you prayerfully consider this ministry. If you have any questions about the ministry contact the Rector.

Coffee Hour/Lemonade on the Lawn – “I can’t host post-service refreshments…” is a phrase often heard. However, once people understand what is required for refreshment hour they realize assisting is much easier than they thought. In principle, the refreshment hour is something to snack on during post-service fellowship. There is no expectation of an elaborate meal – in fact, the majority of the time simple is more appreciated than more complicated.

          When it comes to refreshments they may include things like fruit; cookies or crackers (with or without cheese); maybe a few vegetables; and beverages. For beverages the parish has coffee, leaving one or two choices to be provided. Possibilities include tea, juice, lemonade, and ice water.
          Please consider assisting with refreshments – anyone can do it. If you have any questions contact Marcella Wittenauer.

Olan Mills Directories - The 2012 directories have been delivered and are available for pick-up in the Parish Office. If you had a photo taken or submitted, please stop by and pick up book. If you didn’t have photo taken there are extra copies available. Please see the Rector.

Thought for the week – Strength: Your past, whatever it is, will provide the firm foundation for your life. Even if there’s rubble, the rubble will be reformed into an edifice far stronger and more beautiful than you could have ever imagined.

-Br. Curtis Almquist

Society of Saint John the Evangelist

______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Sat. May 12^th         James River Rug Hookers – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (Parish House)
Sun. May 13^th         Mother’s Day
                             Rogation Sunday
Mon. May 14^th        Vestry Meeting – 7:00 pm (Parish House)
Tue. May 15^th         CAPS Board Meeting – 3:00 pm (Westminster Church)
Thu. May 17^th         Diocesan Fresh Start Graduation Day – 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
                             (Camp Chanco)
Sat. May 19^th         Armed Forces Day
Sun. May 27^th        Pentecost (Pond Altar)
Mon. May 28^th        Memorial Day holiday (Office closed)
Mon. Jun. 18^th        Rector’s Continuing Education through June 22^nd – Virginia
                             Theological Seminary (Alexandria VA)
Sat. Jun. 23^rd        Rector’s Vacation through July 5^th
____________________________________________________________
Community Church Websites:
New Community Christian Center                      http://www.nccfamily.us
Oakland Christian Church (UCC)                       http://www.oaklandchristianchurch.com/
Perfecting Saints Church of God in Christ       http://www.pscogic.com/
Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church         http://www.wesleychapelchuckatuck.org
Ebenezer United Methodist Church                 http://ebumc.net/

PASTORAL CARE
Pray for Katherine, our presiding bishop; Holly, our bishop; and Les our priest.

St. John’s shut-ins, Marianne, Meriwether, Allen, David, Shirley, Suzanne, Janis, Dominique, Virginia, Lon, Luann, Evan, Faye and family, Carter and family, Foster family, Marvin, Sally, Bill, Heather, Pat, Elsie, Charles, the Goman family, Tina, and Kathleen and her son Fergal.

Serving in the Armed Forces: David, Bryan, Susan, Aaron, Kevin, and Elizabeth

Parish Cycle of Prayer: Gary & Toni
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: Emmanuel, Powhatan; Judy Rieken of the Diocesan Staff; Merchants Hope, Prince George.

Anglican Cycle of Prayer: The Church of the Province of Melanesia, The Most Rev. David Vunagi Archbishop of Melanesia and Bishop of Central Melanesia.

Flowers are given to the Glory of God and in memory of Marlene’s parents Ben & Minnie Modazewski.

Birthdays in May

Claudia 10                   Margaret 10
Willis 10                      Steve 14
Sterling 15                   Christine 17
Mary 22                       Bert 24

Anniversaries in May

Susan & Jim 14           Joe & Mary-Margaret 24
Alan & Sarah 25         Dennis & Rusty 31

If you are in need of Pastoral Care,

Please call Father Ferguson.
Cell:  757-418-0063

Contact Music Minister Roger Peyton

Website: http://StJohnsSuffolk.blogspot.com

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