828 King's Highway, Suffolk VA 23432

757 255-4168 stjohns1755@verizon.net Worship Service: Sundays at 10:30am
Welcome to St. John's community. We are honored to serve Christ, and to open our doors to all. Please feel free to join us for worship. St. John's can trace its history to the founding of Jamestown. The parish is over 350 years old, and the church building itself has stood for 2 and a half centuries. St. John's saw the American Revolution and served as a camp ground for troops during the Civil War. Through it all, St. John's has been a place of worship and a home for those seeking communion with Christ. St. John's has a rich and abiding history. Today, it is as it was... a place to find and be found by Christ.

Sunday, September 30, 2012

Sermon for Sunday September 30, 2012

Greetings friends and visitors, it was another blessed day in Chuckatuck. We had a good turnout and were blessed to have a couple young parishioners in worship today. It is always a blessing to have their energy in the room and it is infectious. I bet you can hear them in the midst of the sermon and I hope it isn't too distracting.

We took a look at the comparison and contrast between the personality of Esther and James. Each makes up a part of a faithful follower of Christ, each equally important - one who waits and listens for God's call and direction and one that takes action to bring about the reign of God on earth. A challenging thing to think about and I'm not sure I can provide more than reflection questions. However, I invite your comments.
Les+

http://chirb.it/qDbsnM

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

St. John's e-News for Sunday September 30, 2012

Rector and Don’s Absence – The Rector will be away October 4-9 while serving as a Spiritual Director for a retreat October 4-7. For Pastoral emergencies please contact the Senior Warden, Leone Vigil, at 651-3681. Rev. Ron Spangenberg will be our supply Priest on Sunday October 7.
          Don will be away October 4-10 but expects to return to the office Thursday the 11th.
 
This Saturday September 29 – Two events will take place in Chuckatuck the 29th. From 8:00 am – 2:00 pm, the G. F. W. C. Junto Women’s Club will hold their annual Flea Market at Wesley Chapel. Later that afternoon, the Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department will hold their semi-annual Fish Fry from 4:00-7:00 pm. Please come out and support these two worthwhile organizations.
 
Stewardship – Blessed are you, God of the Universe, for the abundance you have showered on each of us. It is enough, and more than enough. Make our hearts glad, open our hands, and let us see through eyes of blessing.
          The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
When you think about stewardship do you predominately think about money? What is your personal definition of stewardship? What is our Parish’s definition of Stewardship?
______________________________________________________________
September 30, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II – Pastoral Care Sunday
Lessons for the 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21)
First Lesson:  Esther 7:1-6, 9-10, 9:20-22
Psalm:  124
Second Lesson:  James 3:13-20
Gospel:  Mark 9:38-50
 
Lay Participants for September 30, 2012 - 10:30 am service
Eucharistic Minister:  Jim
Lector:  Ben
Prayers:  Marlene
Ushers:  Gary and David
Nursery Attendant:  Kayla
Nursery Assistant:  Leone
 
Refreshments:  No one has signed up
 
Sermon for Sunday, Sep. 23: http://chirb.it/4G00wa
______________________________________________________________
Parish Fundraiser – The Vestry has decided to postpone the proposed fundraiser until the spring (or later) to allow for more complete definition of the event and who will provide what support. If anyone would like to be involved with the planning to include what will be done; where will the “stuff” come from; what will it cost; etc. please contact the Rector or one of the Vestry members.
 
Upcoming Community Events – There are 2 events on the calendar for November that may be of interest for our Parish.
          (1) On Sunday November 11, from 1-7 pm Wesley Chapel, Oakland Christian, and St. John’s Church; the Chuckatuck and Possum Hollow Ruritan Clubs; the Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department; and other civic organizations will host a buffet dinner. Please see the flyer in the Narthex or Parish House for more information and locations to purchase tickets.
          (2) On Saturday November 17, from 9-11 am Impact Suffolk will be holding its 14th annual food giveaway. For more information see the flyer in the Narthex or Parish House.
 
Wednesday Morning Book Study – The Wednesday morning book study reconvened September 25th with its study of “The Bible that Jesus Read” by Philip Yancy. We will continue the study every Wednesday until the end of December at 10:00 am in the Parish Hall. If you are interested please contact Margaret.
 
Bishop’s Days for Parish Leaders – This year’s topic will be “Enlivening Our Faith for Generations to Come” and will be held October 27 at Emmanuel Church in Virginia Beach. This event is NOT just for Vestry members or Wardens but is intended for parish leaders. Bishop's Days will offer 14 workshops from which to choose. For complete information about workshops, schedule, registration and a brochure you can download see the Diocesan Website at http://diosova.org.
 
Formation ClassesThis coming Sunday we will discuss our Old Testament reading Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 “Haman’s Downfall and Mordecai’s Advancement” and “ Destruction of the Enemies of the Jews” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our Old Testament reading Job 1:1; 2:1-10 “Job and His Family” and “Attack on Job’s Health.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday. A reminder; there is nursery service available during the education hour.
 
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 124 together. The Psalm will be set to Hymn 674, “Forgive our sins as we forgive” (Detroit) from the Hymnal 1982. The words and music will be found on a bulletin insert.
 
Thanksgiving Jar – I hear you ask, “What is that neat jar in the Narthex for?” We have a lot to be thankful for in our lives; personally, as a church, and as a community; sometimes we lose sight of those blessings. Parishioners are encouraged to bring or place a brief note about their blessings in the jar in the Narthex and at the end of each month we will offer the jar in our offering and at the end of the year we will review the many blessings we have as a church.
 
Fall Working Party – There will be a fall working party to help sort and identify items for disposal that have been found in various locations in the Parish House. So far we have a couple volunteers who are willing to help sort and dispose; if you would like to help please contact the Rector.
 
Thought for the week – Intimacy: [We know that] God knows everything about us – every thought we have had, every word we have spoken, every feeling we have felt, every thing we have done or left undone – and God has known this from the very beginning of our lives. Nothing is hidden from God.
-Br. David Vryhof
Society of Saint John the Evangelist
______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Daily Mon.-Thu.      * Daily Morning Prayer – 9:00 am (Parish House)
Wed. Sep. 26th      * Wednesday Morning Book Study – 10:00-11:30 am (Parish Hall)
Thu. Sep. 27th        * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Choir Room)
Sat. Sep. 29th        * 5th Saturday Luncheon at Salvation Army
                             * G. F. C. W. Junto Women’s Club Flea Market – Wesley Chapel
                             8:00 am – 2:00 pm
                             * Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry
                             4:00-7:00 pm
Sun. Sep. 30th        * 5th Sunday Pastoral Care Sunday
Wed. Oct. 3rd        * Wednesday Morning Book Study – 10:00-11:30 am (Parish Hall)
Thu. Oct. 4th         * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Choir Room)
Sun. Oct. 7th         * Discretionary Fund Sunday
Mon. Oct. 8th         * Columbus Day Holiday (office closed)
                             * Vestry Meeting – 7:00-9:00 pm (Parish House)
Wed. Oct. 10th       * Wednesday Morning Book Study – 10:00-11:30 am (Parish Hall)
Thu. Oct. 11th         * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Sanctuary)
Sat. Oct. 13th        * James River Rug Hookers – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (Parish House)
Mon. Oct. 15th        * G. F. W. C. Junto Women’s Club meeting – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
                             (Parish Hall)
Tue. Oct. 16th        * CAPS Board of Directors meeting – 3:00-4:30 pm (WRPC)
Wed. Oct. 17th       * Wednesday Morning Book Study – 10:00-11:30 am (Parish Hall)
Thu. Oct. 18th        * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Choir Room)
Wed. Oct. 24th      * Wednesday Morning Book Study – 10:00-11:30 am (Parish Hall)
Thu. Oct. 25th        * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Choir Room)
Sat. Oct. 27th        *Greater Chuckatuck Historic Foundation Founder’s Day
                             Celebration
                             * Bishop’s Day for Parish Leaders (East) – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
                             Emmanuel Virginia Beach
____________________________________________________________
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/
Coalition Against Poverty in Suffolk (CAPS)     http://www.capsuffolk.com
 
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, Marvin, Sally, Bill, Heather, Pat, Charles, Barbara, Tina, Kathleen and Fergal, the Chapman family, Hallie, Bette, Steve, Morse, and Scot.
 
Serving in the Armed Forces and Overseas: Bryan, Elizabeth, Dane, and Patrick
Parish Cycle of Prayer: Dr. Arthur
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: The Rev. Allan & Karen Wentt; The Rev. David & Sherran Lassalle; The Rev. James W. Browder, III.
 
Anglican Cycle of Prayer: The Most Rev. Dr. Barry Morgan, Archbishop of Wales & Bishop of Llandaff.
 
Flowers are given to the Glory of God and in memory of Connie McKeown by Joe and Mary-Margaret.
 
Birthdays in September
Bette 03                      Lizzie 10
Carroll 11                    Dane 13
Roger 14                     Bob 15
Elizabeth 16                Allen 17
 
Anniversaries in September
Charles & Lynn 01      Clare & Steve 03
Perk & G. Lee 11
 
Anniversaries in October
Les & Kathy 01          Pretlow & Mary Kemple 04
Burr & Jen 08
 
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

Monday, September 24, 2012

Christian Formation for Sunday, September 30 - Esther 7:1-10, 9:20-22; Haman, Mordecai, and Purim

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Sundays 9:15 am to 10:15 am
 
September 30, 2012, 18 Pentecost
Esther 7:1-10; 9:20-22
Haman’s Downfall and Mordecai’s Advancement
The Feast of Purim Inaugurated
 
Background: The story of Esther is the story of one the greatest threat to the survival of the Jewish people. The book of Esther is less a historical narrative and more a commentary on the truth that God is intimately concerned with Israel’s survival. Additionally, and possibly more importantly, the book recounts the origin of the festival of Purim.
 
Theme: Before this passage Esther has become a wife of Xerxes (another name for the Persian king Ahasuerus) and later his queen. The people of Israel have been subjugated and their annihilation has been plotted by Haman, starting with Mordecai. It could be argued that Haman’s dislike of the Jews stems from his lack of self-respect and an inferiority complex.
 
Questions to Ponder
* Please read the entirety of Esther 7:1-10 and skim the portion of Esther from 7:11-9:19 for background and continuity.
* While this passage may not be a historical narrative, describe the setting of the book and passage; the social, political, and religious setting in Israel.
* What is ironic about the book of Esther from a social and religious standpoint? How does the presentation of the principle characters match with your understanding of Jewish society?
* Why might Esther ultimately accuse Haman of plotting to destroy all the Jews?
* Where else has the theme of making rash promises, “even to half of my kingdom” by people who are drunk on wine appeared in scripture? What might the significance be regarding this theme in the broader discussion of the survival of Judaism (and Christianity by extension)?
* Why might Esther accuse “someone” of selling “her people” to be “destroyed, killed, and annihilated”? Where might this accusation stem from? Who are the accused seller and buyer?
* What stands out about Esther’s accusation against Haman?
* Why do you think the king departed from the room in verse 7?
* Do you think Haman was assaulting Esther when Xerxes returned or do you think Xerxes was looking for an excuse to get rid of Haman?
* Why would Haman’s face be covered when he departs from the presence of Xerxes?
* Do you think it’s a coincidence that the King’s eunuch is there to point out the gallows that Haman had built to kill Mordecai? Why or why not?
* What do you find ironic about the use of Haman’s gallows for his own destruction?
* Why might there be a delay between the king’s new edict and the festival in Adar (about 9 months)?
* What is significant about the festival celebrated on Adar 14 and 15? What does the festival in honor of?
* How might this passage be a reflection of God’s love for humanity in the present day given the difference in circumstances?
* What applications can we draw from this passage?

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Sermon for Sunday September 23, 2012

Greetings from the tail end of September. We pray you have had a good week, this past week was rewarding for St. John's and its growning community connections. We were awarded a Seeds of Hope grant from the Diocese of Southern Virginia for the Coalition Against Poverty in Suffolk. It will be useful to the group and a blessing from the Diocese to make a difference in Suffolk.

We had a nice turnout this morning and spent more time exploring our relationship with God. We looked at stereotypes and how they impact our relationships. But we didn't look at all our potential stereotypes but the one that addresses our fear to ask God the uestions that God is willing and able to answer. Today's sermon is attached and is entitled "our relationship with God and wondering why we are afraid to ask God for assistance." Your comments are appreciated.
Les+

http://chirb.it/4G00wa

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

St. John's e-News for Sunday September 23, 2012

Parish Fundraiser – The Vestry has decided to postpone the proposed fundraiser until the spring (or later) to allow for more complete definition of the event and who will provide what support. If anyone would like to be involved with the planning to include what will be done; where will the “stuff” come from; what will it cost; etc. please contact the Rector or one of the Vestry members.
 
Stewardship – As we look at stewardship of the blessings we have received we hope to help our Parish and our community understand and believe that:
      God loves us and wants us to have all that we need to live a joyful and productive life.
      All that we are and all that we have are gifts from God.
      Regularly giving of our time, abilities, energy, and money is a spiritual practice.
      Tithing is an important spiritual practice. It helps establish a healthy regard for money. It helps us to live the life God hopes we will have.
          The Episcopal Church Website, A Working Definition of Stewardship Page
______________________________________________________________
September 23, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II
Lessons for the 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20)
First Lesson:  Proverbs 31:10-31
Psalm:  1
Second Lesson:  James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a
Gospel:  Mark 9:30-37
 
Lay Participants for September 23, 2012 - 10:30 am service
Eucharistic Minister:  Jim
Lector:  Kevin
Prayers:  Terry
Ushers:  Nick and Tina
Nursery Attendant:  Kayla
Nursery Assistant:  Anne
 
Refreshments:  Marcella
 
Sermon for Sunday, Sep. 16: http://chirb.it/1P3B7K
______________________________________________________________
Liturgy Planning – The Liturgy Planning team will meet today following service in the Parish Hall.
 
Upcoming Community Events – There are 2 events on the calendar for November that may be of interest for our Parish.
          (1) On Sunday November 11, from 1-7 pm Wesley Chapel, Oakland Christian, and St. John’s Church; the Chuckatuck and Possum Hollow Ruritan Clubs; the Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department; and other civic organizations will host a buffet dinner. Please see the flyer in the Narthex or Parish House for more information and locations to purchase tickets.
          (2) On Saturday November 17, from 9-11 am Impact Suffolk will be holding its 14th annual food giveaway. For more information see the flyer in the Narthex or Parish House.
 
Diocesan Newsletter – The September-October edition of the Diocesan Connection Newsletter can be downloaded at: http://images.acswebnetworks.com/1/2279/SeptOct2012DiocesanConnection.pdf. Or you can contact the Rector or church office to receive a paper copy of the Newsletter.
 
Bishop’s Days for Parish Leaders – This year’s topic will be “Enlivening Our Faith for Generations to Come” and will be held October 27 at Emmanuel Church in Virginia Beach. This event is NOT just for Vestry members or Wardens but is intended for parish leaders. Bishop's Days will offer 14 workshops from which to choose. For complete information about workshops, schedule, registration and a brochure you can download see the Diocesan Website at http://diosova.org.
 
Formation ClassesThis coming Sunday we will discuss our Old Testament reading Proverbs 31:10-31 “Ode to a Capable Wife” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our Old Testament reading Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 “Haman’s Downfall and Mordecai’s Advancement” and “ Destruction of the Enemies of the Jews.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday. A reminder; there is nursery service available during the education hour.
 
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 377, “All people that on earth do dwell” (Old Hundredth) from the Hymnal 1982. The words and music will be found on a bulletin insert.
 
Chuckatuck VFD Fish Fry – The fire department’s semi-annual fund raiser fish fry will be held Saturday, September 29th from 4-7 P.M. Please come and help them raise funds to support the only wholly volunteer squad in Suffolk.
 
Thanksgiving Jar – I hear you ask, “What is that neat jar in the Narthex for?” We have a lot to be thankful for in our lives; personally, as a church, and as a community; sometimes we lose sight of those blessings. Parishioners are encouraged to bring or place a brief note about their blessings in the jar in the Narthex and at the end of each month we will offer the jar in our offering and at the end of the year we will review the many blessings we have as a church.
 
Fall Working Party – There will be a fall working party to help sort and identify items for disposal that have been found in various locations in the Parish House. So far we have a couple volunteers who are willing to help sort and dispose; if you would like to help please contact the Rector.
 
Thought for the week – Dignity: We are human beings created in the image and likeness of God and therefore are vested with an inherent dignity. It is that dignity that the vow of obedience and the virtue of wisdom that comes from listening before acting invites us to pay attention to.
-Br. James Koester
Society of Saint John the Evangelist
______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Daily Mon.-Thu.      * Daily Morning Prayer – 9:00 am (Parish House)
Thu. Sep. 20th        * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Choir Room)
Sun. Sep. 23rd        * Liturgy Planning Team meeting (Parish House)
Wed. Sep. 26th      * Wednesday Morning Book Study – 10:00-11:30 am (Parish Hall)
Thu. Sep. 27th        * St. John Singers rehearsal – 7:00 pm (Choir Room)
Sat. Sep. 29th        * 5th Saturday Luncheon at Salvation Army
                              * Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry
                              4:00-7:00 pm
Sun. Sep. 30th        * 5th Sunday Pastoral Care Sunday
Sun. Oct. 7th          * Discretionary Fund Sunday
Mon. Oct. 8th         * Columbus Day Holiday (office closed)
Sat. Oct. 13th        * James River Rug Hookers – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (Parish House)
Mon. Oct. 15th        * G. F. W. C. Junto Women’s Club meeting – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
                              (Parish Hall)
Tue. Oct. 16th        * CAPS Board of Directors meeting – 3:00-4:30 pm (WRPC)
Sat. Oct. 27th        *Greater Chuckatuck Historic Foundation Founder’s Day
                             Celebration
                             * Bishop’s Day for Parish Leaders (East) – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
                             Emmanuel Virginia Beach
____________________________________________________________
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/
Coalition Against Poverty in Suffolk (CAPS)     http://www.capsuffolk.com
 
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, Marvin, Sally, Bill, Heather, Pat, Charles, Barbara, Tina, Kathleen and Fergal, the Chapman family, Hallie, Bette, Steve, and Morse.
 
Serving in the Armed Forces and Overseas: Bryan, Elizabeth, Dane, and Patrick
Parish Cycle of Prayer: Alva
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: The Rev. Raymond & Muni Nelson; The Rev. Robert & Marian New.
 
Anglican Cycle of Prayer: The Episcopal Church in the USA, The Most Rev. Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori; The Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church.
 
Flowers are given to the Glory of God and in memory of Connie by Joe and Mary-Margaret.
 
Birthdays in September
Bette 03                      Lizzie 10
Carroll 11                    Dane 13
Roger 14                     Bob 15
Elizabeth 16                Allen 17
 
Anniversaries in September
Charles & Lynn 01      Clare & Steve 03
Perk & G. Lee 11
 
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