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

Christian Formation for Sunday May 6, the 5th Sunday of Easter - Acts 8:26-40, Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch

May 6, 2012, 5^th Sunday of Easter

Acts 8:26-40

Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch

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: In this passage we see indicators of Christianity’s growth outside Israel and its neighbors. This is one of a continuing series of call and evangelism stories situated between Stephen’s martyrdom and Saul’s conversion. Through this passage the author of Acts continues to define the growth in acceptance and stature of the Christian cult in the Ancient Near East.

Questions to Ponder

* Review Acts 4:4-25 paying attention to the principals in action and their presentation of the gospel.

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

* Be familiar with the geographic setting of this story and the layout of the places named in the passage.

* In verse 26, the phrase “go to the south” could also be interpreted “go at noon”. What difference would it make with either interpretation? What other events may have taken place at or about noon in the book of Acts? Given the specificity of the time, how might that be an indicator of the Holy Spirit’s interaction with humanity in the growing Christian faith?

* What might the significance of Ethiopia be to this passage? Why might it be important for the Ethiopian in the passage to be a member of the queen’s court?

* How might the fact that the Ethiopian in the chariot was a eunuch impact the conversion that takes place in the passage? How might the Jews treat or view a eunuch? By what authority would they treat a eunuch in that manner?

* What might the significance of the eunuch reading from the prophet Isaiah? What was the history of the passage to the nation of Israel? Do you think the passage should be redefined by the life of Jesus? How might this passage point to statements by Jesus in the gospels?

* For what reason do you think the author made it very clear that the actions in this passage were caused by the Holy Spirit? How might this support the intent of the author with regard to the empowerment of Christianity?

* Do you think the reinterpretation of the passage as one pointing specifically to Christ is helpful for unity in our Christian tradition? How might scriptural reinterpretation impact ecumenical relationships, especially with the Jews?

* It could be claimed the eunuch was the first African missionary yet there is no indication of him doing anything except rejoicing. How might his rejoicing be a form of evangelism?

* Do you think the Holy Spirit actually teleported Philip to Azotus? Where is Caesarea in relation to Azotus and what might the author be claiming with this passage?

* What are the implications of this passage for us in the global community of the 21^st century?

Sermon for Sunday April 29 - 4 Easter Year B

Greetings friends at the midpoint of our Easter journey. It was a nicer day today after last week's monsoon. We have continued the thread about how our abiding in God causes us to reflect on God at work in ourselves and in community. Today's reflection looks at how our relationship with the risen Christ is defined by laying down those things that bind us to our earthly existence and was entitled "Remember." Comments are appreciated.
Les+

http://chirb.it/mmczCx

St. John's e-News for Sunday April 29 - the 4th Sunday of Easter

Bishop’s Visitation – The Rt. Rev. Holly Hollerith will conduct his first official Visitation since his consecration as our Diocesan Bishop Next Sunday, May 6. We will be Receiving Linda into the Episcopal Church during worship. Following service there will be a potluck luncheon; please sign up on the flyer in the Narthex.
          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.

______________________________________________________________
April 29, 2012, 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II
Lessons for the 4^th Sunday of Easter
First Lesson:  Acts 4:5-12
Psalm:  23
Second Lesson:  1 John 3:16-24
Gospel:  John 10:11-18

Lay Participants for April 29, 2012 - 10:30 am service

Eucharistic Minister:  Terry
Lector:  Fred
Prayers:  Marlene
Ushers:  Fred and Marlene
Nursery Attendant:  Khristina
Nursery Assistant:  Laura

Refreshments:  Les and Kathy

Sermon for Sunday, April 22: http://chirb.it/99eC1r

______________________________________________________________
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.

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 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 23 in unison. The Psalm will be set to Hymn 510, Come, Holy Spirit, heavenly Dove (St. Agnes) from the Hymnal 1982. The words and music will be found on a bulletin insert.

Formation Classes – This coming Sunday we will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 4:5-12, “Peter and John before the Council” from 9:15-10:15 am. Next week’s class will discuss our New Testament reading Acts 8:26-40, “Phillip and the Ethiopian Eunuch.” All are invited to join us for class this Sunday.

Wednesday Book Study – On Wednesday, April 25 we will discuss chapter 3, “A man for all seasons: and in Jesus Christ his Son our Lord.” If you would like to participate or have a copy of the book please contact the Rector.

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.

          There is one correction to the directory: Kevin and Terry’s phone number ends 2102 (not 2012).

Thought for the week – Bad Religion: Bad religion is about not trusting God, trying to avoid God or even outwitting him; about approaching God as ‘the management,’ or the head teacher, perhaps, a presence that is at best critical or hostile, always to be outmanoeuvred where possible.

-The Most Rev. and Honorable Rowan Williams

Tokens of Trust, pp 7-8

______________________________________________________________________
Upcoming Events:
Thu. Apr. 26^th        Junto GFWC set up for Spring Game Day and Luncheon
                             12:00 – 3:30 pm (Parish Hall)
Fri. Apr. 27^th         Junto GFWC Spring Game Day and Luncheon
                             9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Parish Hall)
Sun. May 6^th          Bishop’s Visitation
Tue. May 8^th          Spring Clergy Day
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)
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, and Tina.

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

Serving Overseas: David
Parish Cycle of Prayer: Dell
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: Emmanuel, Portsmouth; St. Christopher's, Portsmouth; The Rev. Katherine Gray; The Rev. Patrick & Leslie Finn.

Anglican Cycle of Prayer: The Anglican Church of Kenya; The Most Rev. Dr. Eliud Wabukala Primate and Archbishop of All Kenya.

Flowers are given to the Glory of God and in Memory of Renee Brady on the first anniversary of her death, by Kevin and Terry.

Birthdays in April

John 06                        Barbara 10
Matthew 14                 Bryan 16
Katherine 16               Paul 24
Jake 26                        Bryan 27
Bernice 30

Anniversaries in April

Tim & Bev 03             Doug & Mac 30

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