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

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

Coalation Against Poverty in Suffolk Board Meeting

The Coalition Against Poverty in Suffolk (CAPS) Board of Directors will meet this coming Tuesday, May 15 at 3:00 pm at Westminster Reformed Presbyterian Church on Godwin Blvd in Suffolk. Please feel free to join the board as we continue the process of growing this worthwhile project in Suffolk.

Sunday May 6 - the Visitation by Bishop Hollerith and the Reception of Linda Harms

Greetings friends! Sadly, there will be no sermon posted today. I was given a respite by Bishop Holly Hollerith's visitation (and I forgot my recorder in the office). He preached a rousing sermon based on the reading from Acts 8:26-40. He spoke eloquently about the radical nature of God's call on us and how those who God calls may not (probably won't) be the one's that we invite to join us. But God is in charge of the invitations and not any one of us.

We were blessed to participate in Bp. Hollerith's reception of Linda Harms into the Episcopal Church today. A blessing to observe and a blessing to participate in this service.

And, of course, there was a FANTASTIC potluck immediately following.
Les+

Christian Formation for Sunday May 13; the 6th Sunday of Easter - Acts 10:44-48; Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit

May 13, 2012, 6^th Sunday of Easter

Acts 10:44-48

Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit

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 continue their work of spreading the gospel message in new and unheard of places. Peter, being faithful to his vow to Jesus, does not hesitate to go where he is sent – often to the chagrin of those leaders in Jerusalem. Peter will continue his eloquent defense of his actions by citing the presence of the Holy Spirit as the proof that he is doing the right thing.

Questions to Ponder

* Please review and compare this passage with Acts 2:1-13.

* Briefly describe the social and political structure surrounding this passage.

* How does this passage compare to the passage at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13)? What are the similarities and differences between the two passages?

* What might the significance be of the Holy Spirit descending while Peter is speaking?

* Why might there be “circumcised believers” with Peter? What role might they be playing in the exchange that takes place? Why might their presence be important?

* How might this passage proclaim the favorable response to the gospel message by the Gentiles? How might this passage highlight God’s acceptance of the Gentiles as true believers?

* How might this passage lead to Peter’s later trial in Chapter 11?

* What might the significance be of the Gentile converts’ speaking in tongues be?

* Why might the circumcised members be astonished at the Gentiles speaking in tongues? Do you think their astonishment was well founded?

* For a time it was argued that behavior was the principle requirement for belonging to the church (one had to behave properly before they could become a member of the church) and that belonging would lead to belief. Do you think this passage supports or refutes that argument? Why or why not?

* What is “odd” about the sequence of events in today’s passage?

* There is a proposal about an “open table” (allowing any person, regardless of their status as a baptized Christian to receive bread and wine at Communion) in the Episcopal Church. How do you think this passage informs allowing un-baptized people to come to the table as members of the church?

* What is implied by the Gentiles being baptized “in the name of Jesus Christ”?

* What might Peter’s staying with the Gentiles “for some days” imply? What would be most surprising and most troubling to the circumcised believers and Jews about Peter’s extended presence with the Gentiles?

* What might some of the applications of this passage be for us today as we look at our life and ministry in Suffolk, Southern Virginia, the Anglican Communion, and the world?

St. John's e-News for Sunday May 6, 2012 - 5th Sunday of Easter

Bishop’s Visitation – Today we welcome Bishop Holly Hollerith as our celebrant and preacher today. In addition, he will be Receiving Linda Harms into the Episcopal Church during Worship.
          The loose plate offering and any designated gifts in the plate will be given to Bishop Hollerith for his Discretionary fund.
          Among other things, Bp. Holly is scheduled to attend the 9:15 am Formation hour; either as formation class or an open forum. It is strongly encouraged for people to attend to hear what our Bishop has to say.

Coalition against Poverty in Suffolk (CAPS) News – Our rector, Les Ferguson, has been elected to serve as the Chairperson on the Board of Directors of the CAPS. He invites you to take a look at the programs being proposed by CAPS and how we, as a Parish, might be able to support this vital growing ministry in Suffolk. In addition, the coalition is still looking for participant churches in Suffolk; if you would like information or have a church for the Rector to contact please let him know.

______________________________________________________________
May 6, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II
Lessons for the 5^th Sunday of Easter
First Lesson:  Acts 8:26-40
Psalm:  22:24-30
Second Lesson:  1 John 4:7-21
Gospel:  John 15:1-8

Lay Participants for May 6, 2012 - 10:30 am service

Eucharistic Minister:  Leone
Lector:  Kathy
Prayers:  Marlene
Ushers:  Anne and Bert
Nursery Attendant:  Khristina
Nursery Assistant:  Alice

Refreshments:  Potluck Luncheon

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

______________________________________________________________
Formation Classes – This coming Sunday we will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 8:26-40, “Phillip and the Ethiopian Eunuch” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 10:44-48, “Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday.

Wednesday Book Study – On Wednesday, April 25 we will discuss chapter 4, “The Peace Divided: He suffered and was buried, and the third day he rose again.” 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 22:24-30 in unison. The Psalm will be set to Hymn 147, Now let us all with one accord (Bourbon) 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.

Parish Growth Strategy – Burr has agreed to serve as the head of our Parish Growth Committee. He will be contacting members of the Parish to identify the areas where we see potential growth and what actions we can take to achieve that growth. Please prayerfully consider serving on this committee if called.

          The Rector will be enlisting assistance to revamp the church’s tri-fold flier. If he contacts you please prayerfully consider providing assistance for this project in order to revitalize our Parish’s visibility in our community.

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 – Good News: We can take the radical step of moving toward God and creating a better world by living compassionately. This is the good news.

-Br. Eldridge Pendleton

Society of Saint John the Evangelist

______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Sun. May 6^th          Bishop’s Visitation
Tue. May 8^th          Spring Clergy Day
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)
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
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: Shannon & Dotty
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: Robbie Matthews - Chanco Staff; St. James', Portsmouth; St. John's, Portsmouth; The Rev. Cameron & Angelina Randle; Trinity, Portsmouth.

Anglican Cycle of Prayer: The Anglican Church of Korea; The Most Rev. Paul Kim Primate of the Anglican Church of Korea and Bishop of Seoul.

Flowers are given to the Glory of God and in honor of Bishop Hollerith’s presence with us.

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