St. Luke's, Buffalo, December 2016 Newsletter
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 178 South Main Street—P.O. Box 909 Buffalo, WY 82834
T H E S E E K E RS
Seeking to know and grow in Christ through education, dedication, and service.
De c e m b e r, 2 0 16
THOUGHTS FROM FR. DOUG Welcome to this wonderful and mysterious season of Advent. The purpose of this liturgical season is to ponder and prepare for the arrival of Christ, who comes to us as a baby on the edge of life and society. I was told that in the Mediterranean part of the world, when a woman was wearing blue it was a sign that she was with child. In other regions of the National Episcopal Church, the season of Advent is recognized by using the color of blue. For the city of Buffalo the arrival of Advent, also known as the month of December, communicates a period of intentional community activities and joining others in events of festive cheer. It is a time of fellowship and celebration.
“Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” ...1 Cor. 16:13
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Thank you, Holy Folders!
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From the Sr. Warden
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Growing Through Giving
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Surprise You! Sale Updates
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Christmas Dinners Children’s Christmas Program CHRISTMAS SERVICES
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7
Cover page
Advent also means that the Episcopal Church is entering a new liturgical year. In a real sense, the church is celebrating the beginning of a new year. When I look back on all that has been accomplished this past year, I see both the familiar and the new. The familiar faces and names bring me joy. The work that has been done to our buildings; the renovated pews, moving the piano, structurally strengthening the north wall of Jubilee Hall, trimming the trees, patching the retaining wall in front of Jubilee Hall, rebuilding the “red” doors of Onderdonk Hall, and restoring the “red” doors that go into the sanctuary are signs that we as a church are anticipating a hopeful future. We have invested in the tangible. As I see it, St. Luke’s has laid down a strong foundation for the future. This coming year is a year in which we can shift gears and reorient our focus from the physical to the spiritual. I see our efforts being put into deepening our spiritual connection with Jesus and with one another. The work has begun. Honest conversations about what is taking place and what does our future hold are taking place around St. Luke’s. A common subject of our conversations is how do we, as a church, share the gifts of hope with others? There is an open acknowledgment that the past leaders of the church have joined the angels around the heavenly throne and now it is our time for the next generation of participants to lead the church into the future. These conversations bring me hope. With the birth of a child, parents and families enter a time of transition. Adjustments are made and relationships shift to make room for a new life. The (Continued on page 2)
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Page 2 (“Thoughts from Fr. Doug” - continued from page 1)
church, too, experiences these kinds of changes of growth and challenge. I believe our nation also is moving through a period of deep change, and we are now experiencing this change at a local level. We, as a people of faith, have hope. Our hope is found with God the Father our Creator, God the Son our Redeemer, and God the Holy Spirit our Sustainer. As we are moving through this part of the year and attending different community events, take a moment to listen for hope; and share your joys and dreams with others. Invite family and friends to join a worship service at St. Luke’s. Jesus has prepared us for the future. Jesus arrived in the world on the edge and reoriented our worldview by drawing us into a story of hope and joy. The church building is restored; now join the worship and praise to build the people of God and rejoice! Fr. Doug +
THANK YOU, HOLY FOLDERS! Dear Holy Folders: When I read over the piece I wrote last year trying to express my feelings of gratitude and affection for you, it seemed to me that, even though it is a year later, the words I wrote still came pretty close to hitting the mark. For that reason, I am going to say some of it again this year. It is a “given” that I don’t have words good enough to express how I feel about each of you, or how much I feel I owe you. One of the greatest gifts God can give a person is the gift of people he or she can trust and rely on. That being true, I “hit the jackpot” with you folks! I could go on and on about how I have come to count on you each month, to take the newsletter out of my hands and get it ready for mailing in a timely fashion. I can also tell others about the many times you have “bailed me out” with projects like the Surprise You! Sale raffle tickets and other “extras” I just didn’t have the time for. And while I’m singing your praises, I must not forget to mention how much the fellowship means to me as we sit around, folding and labeling and chatting. Just working with you, being warmed by your presence and friendship, means the world to me. And, last but not least, I must point out to others your example of unselfish, loving service, as you drop everything and come to help me each time I call. Yes, I can do all that and more, and it still would not be enough to repay you for just being the blessing that you are. So again this year, I will content myself with telling each of you that I love you dearly, and again I will resolve to learn from, and follow, your example of unselfish servanthood. You give me a lot to live up to! THANK YOU, HOLY FOLDERS! MAY GOD BLESS EACH OF YOU.
JOAN CROSS FRANCES CAMPBELL MARJE MILLHOUSE KAREN WALKER MARY GAMMON SUE SHAMBAUGH EMILY WHIPPLE MARY FOWLKES *KAREN SENEY **RALPH SENEY PAT MILLER LINDA GREENOUGH VIRGIE GRACE *Now living in California and dearly missed. **Deceased and also dearly missed.
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PASSING THE TORCH Words from the Senior Warden
The Surprise You Sale is coming up December 3; 8-11 A.M. on Saturday!! Come buy a ticket for a cinnamon roll and coffee; sit down and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere!! St. Luke’s ECW goes all out to prepare wonderful candies, rolls, pies, cakes, cookies, jellies to sell for Christmas dinners, and gifts. There will be a table of needlework and crafts for sale. The fresh wreaths smell wonderful and are decorated with cones and bows; they sell out very quickly!! There are many lovely items to win this year if you buy raffle tickets. The Surprise You Sale has always been the start of the Christmas Season for me-with God’s Blessings!! Remember to make reservations for the Consecration Sunday Brunch at The Bozeman Trail Conference Center, December 11, 2016, after the 9 A.M. church service. This is planned by the Stewardship Committee. Reservation cards will be available at the 8 A.M. and 10 A.M. church services on December 4, 2016. The final day for reservations is *December 8th*. There will be one Christmas Eve service at 5 P.M., with the choir. Christmas Day is on Sunday this year and there is a 9 A.M. church service; without the choir. St. Luke’s is that special place for all to celebrate the birth of Christ. It is very meaningful to see families and friends come together for the Christmas Services. God gives us such peace in our hearts. JoAnn Pearson, Sr. Warden/St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH REPORT OF INCOME/EXPENSE Our Financial Status as of the end of October, 2016 is as follows: Income
$11,821.06
Expenses
17,260.69
Deficit
$(5,439.63)
(Questions? Contact Treasurer Allison Bodan at 620-9031)
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GROWING THROUGH GIVING A message (with modifications for readability) from One Minute Stewardship Sermons written by Charles Cloughen Jr. –
For many Christians, (Advent) marks the beginning of our Church Year. It is a season of expectation and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. November 27, 2016 was the first Sunday of Advent – the New Year. It is a time we prepare our hearts and souls for the coming birth of Christ. It is a time of expectation, of watchfulness, and a time of self-examination. We examine our stewardship of time, abilities, and money and consider how we are using all three for the proclaiming of God’s kingdom. Thank you for your offering! It will go toward building God’s kingdom. Fr. Doug +
Fr. Doug waits to welcome Ralph Seney home. (Committal Service on All Saints’ Sunday, November 6, 2016.)
HAVE YOU EVER STOPPED TO LOOK AT THE SYMBOLIC ORNAMENTS ON THE CHRISTMAS TREE IN THE IONDERDONK?? DO YOU KNOW WHAT THEY MEAN? This Advent, a pedestal with a book on it will be placed by the tree, explaining the meanings of each symbol. Especially if you have children, find each ornament and teach the children, (and maybe yourself!!) what they mean. As you see this tree, may it help you remember the REAL meaning of CHRISTmas!
HERE’S AN IMPORTANT DATE FOR YOUR CALENDAR!
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING SUNDAY, JANUARY 29th (More details in your January issue of The Seekers.)
Surprise You! Sale Last-Minute Updates!
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SURPRISE YOU! SALE DECEMBER 3RD Baked Goods
CHILI SUPPER &
8:00—11:00 A.M. Homemade Candy
WREATH PARTY Wednesday, November 30th
Handmade Arts & Crafts
5:30 P.M.
Needlework
Onderdonk Hall
Crochet & Knitted Items Brooms
Boot Jacks
Evergreen Wreaths Coffee—Hot Chocolate– Cinnamon Rolls
Donations of chili, soup, breads, and desserts are needed. A sign-up sheet is posted on the bulletin board. (Please bring gloves, pliers, wire cutters, and other useful tools.)
Stop by — take a break — sit a spell!
COUNTDOWN TO THE SURPRISE YOU! SALE! Wednesday, November 30 — 5:30 P.M. — Chili Supper—WREATH PARTY Thursday & Friday, December 1 & 2 Set up Onderdonk for the sale. Saturday, December 3: 7 A.M.— Workers arrive and need to be ready by sale time at 8 A.M.
11 A.M.—End of sale. Clean up hall. Get ready for Sunday activities. Please collect your unsold items by 12 noon Sunday.
Thank you to everyone for your help and support!
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SURPRISE YOU! SALE RAFFLE ITEMS! Again this year, we have some exceptional items to offer:
1. A $100 Gift Certificate from The Sports Lure. (Donated by The Sports Lure.) 2. $300 IN Buffalo Bucks (Donated by St. Luke’s ECW)
3. A $50 Gift Certificate (Donated by Bozeman Trail Steak House.)
4. A Gift Basket for Her (Donated by McKenzie/Naill/McFadden)
5. A Latico Wallet (Donated by Margo’s Pottery.)
6. A Fire Pit
(Donated by Mildred Johnson.)
AND THE LIST GOES ON! IN ALL, WE HAVE 17 GREAT PRIZES FOR OUR LUCKY WINNERS! Tickets are $5.00 each or 3 for $10.00. These can be purchased from any ECW member, the Church Office, or at the door on December 3rd.
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ECW CHRISTMAS POTLUCK & FUN THINGS! WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016 12 NOON **** ONDERDONK HALL AN OPEN INVITATION TO OUR ST. LUKE’S WOMEN: Let’s get together, to celebrate the season and each other! (A SIGN-UP SHEET HAS BEEN POSTED, FOR A “HEAD COUNT.”)
CHRISTIAN MOVIE NIGHT at the Buffalo
Theater
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7TH—7:00 P.M. “Coat of Many Colors” & “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” FREE ADMISSION Attendees are encouraged to purchase concessions from the theater’s snack bar. Proceeds will be used to cover overhead costs for use of the theater. Sponsored by the First United Methodist Church.
IT’S TIME TO RING THOSE BELLS! It’s the season once again, and volunteers are needed to ring bells for the Salvation Army. “Ringers” will be needed on Wednesday and Friday of each week until Christmas Eve. The shifts are 1 ½ hours long, starting at 11:30 a.m., with the last shift ending at 5:30 p.m. If you can help with this worthwhile cause, please contact the Crisis Center at 684-2233. Any assistance is very much appreciated.
LET’S GATHER AT THE
GIVING TREE! St. Luke’s Christmas tree is now on display in Onderdonk Hall, adorned with lights, its unique Christian symbol ornaments, and special gift tags from the Food Pantry. These gift tags are to accompany donations to the Food Baskets. It has become a cherished tradition for our St. Luke’s congregation to provide the Christmas dinners for the Food Pantry patrons. Presently, this effort ensures a Christmas meal for approximately 175 family units each year. A gift of $25 will purchase a ham and other food items for a complete Christmas dinner for four; however, donations in any amount will be gratefully received. The procedure is simple: just take a tag from the tree and put it in an envelope, along with your donation. Checks should be made payable to: Bread of Life Food Pantry and designated “Christmas dinners.” You can mail your gift to P.O. Box 909 or give it to the Church Office. “Tis the season,” so let’s all gather at The Giving Tree. You’ll be glad you did!
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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PROGRAM On , December 18th, our St. Luke’s family is cordially invited to view Christmas through the eyes of children, as our St. Luke’s youngsters present their Christmas Program at 10 A.M. (together with the service of Holy Eucharist.) We hope you will gather up family, friends, and those proud grandparents, and join us on this special occasion!
“God cannot give us a happiness and peace
This 10 A.M. Service and program will be followed by a Christmas Party in Onderdonk Hall. Santa will be there with gifts and goodies!
apart
There will also be a regular service of Holy Eucharist at 8:00 A.M. (Adult Bible Study will still meet at 9 A.M. in Onderdonk Hall. Children’s Sunday school at 10 A.M. is canceled for that morning.)
from Himself because
Again, we urge you to put this date on your calendar and be in attendance! This is a great opportunity to offer our support to our St. Luke’s young people and our ever growing and exciting Christian education program. And while you’re at it, this would be a good chance to say a BIG “Thank you” to Lisa Killian, Pam McFadden, Kellie Wasinger, and all who have contributed to the success of this vital ministry.
ALTAR GUILD CLEANING MEETING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23RD 10:00 A.M. Please plan to attend. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes ALL members to get ready for Christmas!
there.” ...C.S. Lewis
THANK YOU, ERIN, FROM ALL OF US!
ATTENTION, ALTAR GUILD MEMBERS! There will be an
it is not
As another year comes to a close, we again take this opportunity to say a word of thanks to our Sexton, Erin Eastwood. Erin is the young woman who works quietly behind the scenes, keeping our church and hall clean and presentable. She does her work modestly, without calling attention to herself, but we would quickly take notice if she ceased her efforts! It would be easy to take a person like Erin for granted, but we do not intend to let that happen! Thank you, Erin, from all of us, for what you do for your church family at St. Luke’s. We are blessed by your loving service and your presence among us!
NEED TO CONTACT FR. DOUG? Office Hours: Tuesday—Friday 9:00 A.M.—Noon Day Off: Monday Address: 513 E. Hart Street Cell/Text: 307-620-0061 (Please feel free to use this number!)
“The birth of Christ brought God to man; the Cross of Christ brings man to God.”
...Borrowed
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LET’S GO CHRISTMAS CAROLING!
Tuesday, December 20th 8:00 P.M *** Meet at the church.
We invite YOU to join with our St. Luke’s Choir in an evening of fun and fellowship, as we sing our Christmas good wishes to our shut-in’s. The group will top off the evening at Linda Clark’s, enjoying hot chocolate and cider. Bring family and friends!
PLEASE BE PRAYING. There will be 3 positions open on St. Luke’s Vestry in 2017. Please pray for God’s guidance and discernment in filling these positions.
Worship Team Meeting, 11-15-2016 Persons present: Nancy Straight, Fr. Doug, Nancy Bartlett, Mary Gammon, Elaine Walker, Karen Walker, Louise Anderson, Emily Whipple and Linda Clark. After Nancy opened the meeting with prayer, Fr. Doug commented about Advent being our anticipation of the arrival of Hope. He encouraged us to listen for the Hope in all circumstances. Fr. Doug reported on the responses to our offering the $5,000 the Episcopal Foundation granted us to address poverty in our area. The Vestry decided to give an equal portion of the funds to three agencies that see people in our community that are struggling: The Family Crisis Center, The Senior Center and the Financial Peace University program. In each case the agency was initially acceptable but after Fr. Doug explained the “no strings attached,” “total benevolence” policy of the Foundation they warmed and became excited thinking about a family who could be helped. Discussion items included: Consecration Sunday-Dec. 11th –see further information in the Newsletter Advent Sunday Services—The advent wreath will be lowered and lit while Karen Walker reads and the choir and parish sings, “Christ Be our Light”. During communion the choir and parish will sing “While we are waiting Come.” Christmas Caroling—After the last advent choir practice on Dec. 21st. at 8 pm the choir and other interested parishioners will Carol to our shut-ins and end at Linda Clark’s home for cider and hot chocolate. All are welcome to participate. Christmas Services—There will be one service on Christmas Eve at 5 pm and one Service on Christmas Day at 9 am. On Christmas Eve the Baby Jesus of the Nativity Set will be carried in ahead of the choir by a local child. The next meeting will be on Dec. 20th at 10 am. Linda Clark, Scribe
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A LETTER FROM JOAN Nov. 3, 2016 Happy Thanksgiving from Wyoming! “But they that wait upon the Lord will renew their strength….” Isaiah 40:31 I have hesitated to write because I wasn’t sure what to write about- other than “waiting” and waiting doesn’t usually make for good stories. I came to the US right after school finished at the beginning of July. Our Langano School project agreement with the government had terminated on June 30 so I had no work permit or ID. The new agreement had been written and submitted and we were just waiting on its confirmation and for the issuing of my new documents. I came back to the US for a summer holiday of 3 or 4 weeks with a carry-on bag filled with summer clothes. I left my computer and other stuff in Addis figuring that I would be back in Ethiopia by the 15th of August. Then things stalled out: the agreement didn’t go through right away, there was some confusion regarding tax issues and then Ethiopia began to deal with political uncertainties. So here I am waiting in Wyoming. I had been so certain that I would be going back to Ethiopia ASAP I decided to rent out the little house where I was living. I figured that since the economy in our area had been significantly impacted by the down turn of the fossil fuel markets that it would take 6 weeks to two months to get it rented. That would give me plenty of time to clean, sort things and get my packing finished. Boy, was I wrong!!!! I had 7 calls within the first day and a half. It was rented within two days. The little gal that rented it was ready to move in immediately. As a result, mine was an expedited move.
It did make me very aware of a couple of things- the huge need in our small community for affordable housing. It also made me incredibly grateful to God for a place to stay and family members and friends who are willing to help out. It has also reminded me that we pray when we can accomplish nothing in our own strength- like Paul when he was a prisoner in Rome. This waiting has given me a new appreciation for Paul and the concern he expressed in his prison letters. He was tethered to the Roman guard, he got rumors and/or reports of problems about his friends and the churches where he had invested much of himself. There was very little he could do from a human perspective, so he did what counted- he prayed and he wrote to his friends encouraging them to be strong in their faith. In the past five or six months Ethiopia has experienced some political turmoil which led the government to declare a ‘state of emergency’ last month. It has been disconcerting to be in the US and only get bits and pieces of information. At the moment I’m in the US while friends and colleagues are in Ethiopia. I have heard lots of stories/reports, but whether they are true or not, I don’t know. At least for a time, all of the schools in our area were closed. I heard from our director and he said that our school was closed, but the staff was waiting for the government to give permission to re-open. I pray that the teachers will be ready and able to encourage the students when the school does open. The inability to be involved personally means that you must rely on the people who are left behind. You have to have confidence that they will carry the torch and get things done. I do—I’ve watched our staff give quality education and because I got a sneak preview of the teachers’ investment in other families in June just before I left Ethiopia. Case in point was Alemitu’s investment in Shumane and Mariyam. (Continued on next page)
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Alemitu and Shumane Shumane was a student at Langano School almost ten years ago. She was one of those gifted students, but during her fifth grade year she decided to get married. I was so disappointed because she had so much potential and the young man she married seemed so harum scarum. But they settled down and two years later they had a little girl named Mariyam. Frequently, Shumane would invite me to her house for coffee and a ‘chat’. The chatting was mostly playing games and puzzles with Mariyam while Shumane fixed coffee. I wanted to be able to share stories with Mariyam but my language was too limited to make it really fun for her. Often the point of the story got lost. Then one day I had a new thought. What about Alemitu, our science teacher? I asked Alemitu whether she would be willing to go with me and tell the Bible stories. She agreed and our encounter was delightful on several different levels. Mariyam and a lot of her friends got to hear a story told in their language. They also got to color pictures in the coloring book as Alemitu told the story again. Alemitu and Shumane were able to visit and establish the beginnings of a friendship. And equally important as we left Alemitu asked Mariyam if we would see her next year (2016-2017)at school. It was a blessing to see the networking happen and the potential for another generation of Langano School students to receive a good education and to hear the gospel. And it will be exciting to anticipate what will happen in Ethiopia while I am waiting in Wyoming. Please pray for the staff as another school year gets underway- that they will teach not only with words but by example as well. Please pray for peace within the country. As a friend once said to me, “We never appreciate peace until we don’t have it.” We serve an awesome God who is able to do more than what we think or imagine! Joan SIM Address: Joan Smith % SIM Box 7900, Charlotte, NC 28241-7900 Field address: Joan Smith, Box 127, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Email address: [email protected]
NO ROOM AT THE INN? The inn has no room for the child to be born. This is eternally and tragically true. For in the inn that is each one of us, there is constant holiday, constant crisis, constant distraction which crowds the rooms of our mind and heart and soul. Suddenly there is no room for anything except ourselves, our anxiety or passion or ambition. And at the gates of our consciousness, deep in our inmost being, God is offering us a new being to be born in the inn of our consciousness. It is too full of a thousand chattering guests. In his love God does not go away. Instead he goes, as we bid him, to a lower place, to the manger and cave of our unconscious being, and there in the shadows he comes to birth.” ...Herbert O’Driscoll, A Certain Life
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Making Advent Special with our Advent Wreath Researched by Louise Anderson Fr. Doug has been talking about Hope and our beautiful Advent wreath, made by the beautiful crafting of Dr. Bill Novotny, is a symbol to help us as we anticipate the arrival of Christ, the Light of the World and our Hope. The wreath is a circular shape, representing eternity. ( No beginning and no end) On that wreath are five candles; each representing a 1,000 years and an aspect of our spiritual preparation for the coming of the Lord Jesus. (Added together the four candles symbolize the 4,000 years that humanity waited for the world’s Savior-from Adam and Eve to Jesus.) As a whole these candles represent the coming of the LIGHT of Christ into the world. (Each week as a different Candle is lit, we will sing a small refrain to ask Jesus to come and to shine in our hearts and our church.) On the first Sunday of Advent, the first purple candle is lit. This candle is called the “Prophecy Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, primarily Isaiah, who gave us hope through the foretelling of the birth of Christ The second Sunday the second purple candle is lit representing love. It is called the “BETHLEHEM CANDLE” symbolizing Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem and Christ's manger. The Third Sunday a pink candle is lit. It is called the “SHEPHERDS CANDLE” and it represents the joy the world experienced at the coming birth of Jesus. (As a child we also believed that being pink, it could also represent MARY.) The fourth Sunday symbolizes peace with the “ANGELS CANDLE” and the message of the angels, “Peace on earth and good will toward all men.” On Christmas Eve the white center “CHRIST CANDLE” is lit. The white represents the sinless purity of Christ. We now can celebrate the life, the hope and light of Christ that has come into the world. ********************************** Celebrating with the Advent wreath during the weeks prior to Christmas is a great way to anticipate the true meaning of CHRISTmas!! PS. The candles are on the intentional side of the wreath but be sure to look at the underneath side of our beautiful wreath for Dr. Bill's special touches!!
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You can’t outgive God, but you CAN give back! Join us for
CONSECRATION SUNDAY on December 11th. ONE service at 9:00 A.M. (The Rev. Warren Murphy will be our guest.)
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY! “Happy are those who fear the Lord, who greatly delight in his commandments. Their descendants will be mighty in the land, the generation of the upright will be blessed.” ...Psalm 112:1b-2
Elaine Hough (12/2), Kim Harvey (12/2), Luke Palmerlee (12/3), Benjamin Norris (12/4), Matthew Iberlin (12/8), Cole Reiner (12/9), Dollie Iberlin (12/10), Amanda Kaufmann (12/10), James Griffith (12/10), Jeff Green (12/13), Andy Philpott (12/14), Sally Ramsbottom (12/14), Nathan Boyce (12/14), Amy Pierson (12/15), Spencer Bartley (12/17), Scott Gruntmeir (12/17), Don Bartlett (12/18), Aaron Griffith (12/18), Margaret Smith (12/18), Rich Gilbert (12/18), Shane Gammon (12/19), Karen Boggs (12/20), Kris Seals (12/20), Shawn Miller (12/20), Jenny Wuerker (12/20), Elijah Gonzales (12/21), Chris Newton (12/24), Dee Meyer (12/26), Joel Grace (12/29), Emerson Scott, III (12/29), Kelli Shetler (12/29), Max Rogers (12/29), Joan Smith (12/30), Jayfe Jerry (12/31), & Lorajane Kessler (12/31).
A PRAYER FOR CHRISTMAS His Spirit fill my hungering soul, His power all my life control, my deepest prayer, my highest goal, that I may be like Jesus.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! “Dearly beloved: We have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony.” ...BCP page 423
Mr. & Mrs. Ed Crain (12/16) Mr. & Mrs. Gary Havens (12/16) Mr. & Mrs. Gerry Miller (12/28) Mr. & Mrs. Matt DeLapp (12/29)
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY! (The following folks were baptized during the month of December.) “One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism; one God and Father of all.”
...BCP p. 299
Margo Mader (12/1), Adam Nimick (12/3), Bp. Vernon Strickland (12/5), Justin Blankenship (12/7), Lee Born (12/8), Laney Jo Mader (12/14), Gus James Mader (12/14), Dick Naill (12/15), Annaliese Engen (12/18), Zander Engen (12/18), Elaine Walker (12/19), Daisy Walker (12/19), Charles Wonka (12/19), Kati Harvey (12/23), Charlotte Eastwood (12/23), Arnie Griffith (12/24), Joel Killian (12/24), Wes Killian (12/24), Michael Mader (12/24), Linda Greenough (12/26), Matthew Iberlin (12/28), Brian Kessler (12/28), Jen Skaggs (12/28), & John Wonka (12/29).
…Thomas Chisholm
PRAYER FOR ST. LUKE’S Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
WORSHIP SCHEDULE Fr. Doug Wasinger
Sunday, December 4 8 & 10 A.M. Holy Eucharist 9 A.M. Adult Bible Study 10 A.M. Sunday School Sunday, December 11 Consecration Sunday 9 A.M. Holy Eucharist (Brunch at Bozeman’s to follow.)
Sunday, December 28 8 & 10 A.M. Holy Eucharist 9 A.M. Adult Bible Study 10 A.M. HE/Xmas Program
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 178 South Main Street P.O. Box 909 Buffalo, WY 82834
PAID BUFFALO, WY PERMIT #8
307-684-7529 [email protected] www.stlukes.diowy.org
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
December, 2016
CHRISTMAS SERVICES CHRISTMAS EVE, SATURDAY DECEMBER 24 5:00 P.M. Holy Eucharist
Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 Holy Eucharist
5 P.M.
Sunday, December 25 Christmas Day 9 A.M. Holy Eucharist Each Wednesday Holy Eucharist
7 A.M.
CHRISTMAS DAY, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 9 A.M. Holy Eucharist
T H E S E E K E RS
Seeking to know and grow in Christ through education, dedication, and service.
De c e m b e r, 2 0 16
THOUGHTS FROM FR. DOUG Welcome to this wonderful and mysterious season of Advent. The purpose of this liturgical season is to ponder and prepare for the arrival of Christ, who comes to us as a baby on the edge of life and society. I was told that in the Mediterranean part of the world, when a woman was wearing blue it was a sign that she was with child. In other regions of the National Episcopal Church, the season of Advent is recognized by using the color of blue. For the city of Buffalo the arrival of Advent, also known as the month of December, communicates a period of intentional community activities and joining others in events of festive cheer. It is a time of fellowship and celebration.
“Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” ...1 Cor. 16:13
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Thank you, Holy Folders!
2
From the Sr. Warden
3
Growing Through Giving
4
Surprise You! Sale Updates
5
Christmas Dinners Children’s Christmas Program CHRISTMAS SERVICES
6
7
Cover page
Advent also means that the Episcopal Church is entering a new liturgical year. In a real sense, the church is celebrating the beginning of a new year. When I look back on all that has been accomplished this past year, I see both the familiar and the new. The familiar faces and names bring me joy. The work that has been done to our buildings; the renovated pews, moving the piano, structurally strengthening the north wall of Jubilee Hall, trimming the trees, patching the retaining wall in front of Jubilee Hall, rebuilding the “red” doors of Onderdonk Hall, and restoring the “red” doors that go into the sanctuary are signs that we as a church are anticipating a hopeful future. We have invested in the tangible. As I see it, St. Luke’s has laid down a strong foundation for the future. This coming year is a year in which we can shift gears and reorient our focus from the physical to the spiritual. I see our efforts being put into deepening our spiritual connection with Jesus and with one another. The work has begun. Honest conversations about what is taking place and what does our future hold are taking place around St. Luke’s. A common subject of our conversations is how do we, as a church, share the gifts of hope with others? There is an open acknowledgment that the past leaders of the church have joined the angels around the heavenly throne and now it is our time for the next generation of participants to lead the church into the future. These conversations bring me hope. With the birth of a child, parents and families enter a time of transition. Adjustments are made and relationships shift to make room for a new life. The (Continued on page 2)
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church, too, experiences these kinds of changes of growth and challenge. I believe our nation also is moving through a period of deep change, and we are now experiencing this change at a local level. We, as a people of faith, have hope. Our hope is found with God the Father our Creator, God the Son our Redeemer, and God the Holy Spirit our Sustainer. As we are moving through this part of the year and attending different community events, take a moment to listen for hope; and share your joys and dreams with others. Invite family and friends to join a worship service at St. Luke’s. Jesus has prepared us for the future. Jesus arrived in the world on the edge and reoriented our worldview by drawing us into a story of hope and joy. The church building is restored; now join the worship and praise to build the people of God and rejoice! Fr. Doug +
THANK YOU, HOLY FOLDERS! Dear Holy Folders: When I read over the piece I wrote last year trying to express my feelings of gratitude and affection for you, it seemed to me that, even though it is a year later, the words I wrote still came pretty close to hitting the mark. For that reason, I am going to say some of it again this year. It is a “given” that I don’t have words good enough to express how I feel about each of you, or how much I feel I owe you. One of the greatest gifts God can give a person is the gift of people he or she can trust and rely on. That being true, I “hit the jackpot” with you folks! I could go on and on about how I have come to count on you each month, to take the newsletter out of my hands and get it ready for mailing in a timely fashion. I can also tell others about the many times you have “bailed me out” with projects like the Surprise You! Sale raffle tickets and other “extras” I just didn’t have the time for. And while I’m singing your praises, I must not forget to mention how much the fellowship means to me as we sit around, folding and labeling and chatting. Just working with you, being warmed by your presence and friendship, means the world to me. And, last but not least, I must point out to others your example of unselfish, loving service, as you drop everything and come to help me each time I call. Yes, I can do all that and more, and it still would not be enough to repay you for just being the blessing that you are. So again this year, I will content myself with telling each of you that I love you dearly, and again I will resolve to learn from, and follow, your example of unselfish servanthood. You give me a lot to live up to! THANK YOU, HOLY FOLDERS! MAY GOD BLESS EACH OF YOU.
JOAN CROSS FRANCES CAMPBELL MARJE MILLHOUSE KAREN WALKER MARY GAMMON SUE SHAMBAUGH EMILY WHIPPLE MARY FOWLKES *KAREN SENEY **RALPH SENEY PAT MILLER LINDA GREENOUGH VIRGIE GRACE *Now living in California and dearly missed. **Deceased and also dearly missed.
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PASSING THE TORCH Words from the Senior Warden
The Surprise You Sale is coming up December 3; 8-11 A.M. on Saturday!! Come buy a ticket for a cinnamon roll and coffee; sit down and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere!! St. Luke’s ECW goes all out to prepare wonderful candies, rolls, pies, cakes, cookies, jellies to sell for Christmas dinners, and gifts. There will be a table of needlework and crafts for sale. The fresh wreaths smell wonderful and are decorated with cones and bows; they sell out very quickly!! There are many lovely items to win this year if you buy raffle tickets. The Surprise You Sale has always been the start of the Christmas Season for me-with God’s Blessings!! Remember to make reservations for the Consecration Sunday Brunch at The Bozeman Trail Conference Center, December 11, 2016, after the 9 A.M. church service. This is planned by the Stewardship Committee. Reservation cards will be available at the 8 A.M. and 10 A.M. church services on December 4, 2016. The final day for reservations is *December 8th*. There will be one Christmas Eve service at 5 P.M., with the choir. Christmas Day is on Sunday this year and there is a 9 A.M. church service; without the choir. St. Luke’s is that special place for all to celebrate the birth of Christ. It is very meaningful to see families and friends come together for the Christmas Services. God gives us such peace in our hearts. JoAnn Pearson, Sr. Warden/St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH REPORT OF INCOME/EXPENSE Our Financial Status as of the end of October, 2016 is as follows: Income
$11,821.06
Expenses
17,260.69
Deficit
$(5,439.63)
(Questions? Contact Treasurer Allison Bodan at 620-9031)
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GROWING THROUGH GIVING A message (with modifications for readability) from One Minute Stewardship Sermons written by Charles Cloughen Jr. –
For many Christians, (Advent) marks the beginning of our Church Year. It is a season of expectation and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. November 27, 2016 was the first Sunday of Advent – the New Year. It is a time we prepare our hearts and souls for the coming birth of Christ. It is a time of expectation, of watchfulness, and a time of self-examination. We examine our stewardship of time, abilities, and money and consider how we are using all three for the proclaiming of God’s kingdom. Thank you for your offering! It will go toward building God’s kingdom. Fr. Doug +
Fr. Doug waits to welcome Ralph Seney home. (Committal Service on All Saints’ Sunday, November 6, 2016.)
HAVE YOU EVER STOPPED TO LOOK AT THE SYMBOLIC ORNAMENTS ON THE CHRISTMAS TREE IN THE IONDERDONK?? DO YOU KNOW WHAT THEY MEAN? This Advent, a pedestal with a book on it will be placed by the tree, explaining the meanings of each symbol. Especially if you have children, find each ornament and teach the children, (and maybe yourself!!) what they mean. As you see this tree, may it help you remember the REAL meaning of CHRISTmas!
HERE’S AN IMPORTANT DATE FOR YOUR CALENDAR!
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING SUNDAY, JANUARY 29th (More details in your January issue of The Seekers.)
Surprise You! Sale Last-Minute Updates!
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SURPRISE YOU! SALE DECEMBER 3RD Baked Goods
CHILI SUPPER &
8:00—11:00 A.M. Homemade Candy
WREATH PARTY Wednesday, November 30th
Handmade Arts & Crafts
5:30 P.M.
Needlework
Onderdonk Hall
Crochet & Knitted Items Brooms
Boot Jacks
Evergreen Wreaths Coffee—Hot Chocolate– Cinnamon Rolls
Donations of chili, soup, breads, and desserts are needed. A sign-up sheet is posted on the bulletin board. (Please bring gloves, pliers, wire cutters, and other useful tools.)
Stop by — take a break — sit a spell!
COUNTDOWN TO THE SURPRISE YOU! SALE! Wednesday, November 30 — 5:30 P.M. — Chili Supper—WREATH PARTY Thursday & Friday, December 1 & 2 Set up Onderdonk for the sale. Saturday, December 3: 7 A.M.— Workers arrive and need to be ready by sale time at 8 A.M.
11 A.M.—End of sale. Clean up hall. Get ready for Sunday activities. Please collect your unsold items by 12 noon Sunday.
Thank you to everyone for your help and support!
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SURPRISE YOU! SALE RAFFLE ITEMS! Again this year, we have some exceptional items to offer:
1. A $100 Gift Certificate from The Sports Lure. (Donated by The Sports Lure.) 2. $300 IN Buffalo Bucks (Donated by St. Luke’s ECW)
3. A $50 Gift Certificate (Donated by Bozeman Trail Steak House.)
4. A Gift Basket for Her (Donated by McKenzie/Naill/McFadden)
5. A Latico Wallet (Donated by Margo’s Pottery.)
6. A Fire Pit
(Donated by Mildred Johnson.)
AND THE LIST GOES ON! IN ALL, WE HAVE 17 GREAT PRIZES FOR OUR LUCKY WINNERS! Tickets are $5.00 each or 3 for $10.00. These can be purchased from any ECW member, the Church Office, or at the door on December 3rd.
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ECW CHRISTMAS POTLUCK & FUN THINGS! WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2016 12 NOON **** ONDERDONK HALL AN OPEN INVITATION TO OUR ST. LUKE’S WOMEN: Let’s get together, to celebrate the season and each other! (A SIGN-UP SHEET HAS BEEN POSTED, FOR A “HEAD COUNT.”)
CHRISTIAN MOVIE NIGHT at the Buffalo
Theater
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7TH—7:00 P.M. “Coat of Many Colors” & “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” FREE ADMISSION Attendees are encouraged to purchase concessions from the theater’s snack bar. Proceeds will be used to cover overhead costs for use of the theater. Sponsored by the First United Methodist Church.
IT’S TIME TO RING THOSE BELLS! It’s the season once again, and volunteers are needed to ring bells for the Salvation Army. “Ringers” will be needed on Wednesday and Friday of each week until Christmas Eve. The shifts are 1 ½ hours long, starting at 11:30 a.m., with the last shift ending at 5:30 p.m. If you can help with this worthwhile cause, please contact the Crisis Center at 684-2233. Any assistance is very much appreciated.
LET’S GATHER AT THE
GIVING TREE! St. Luke’s Christmas tree is now on display in Onderdonk Hall, adorned with lights, its unique Christian symbol ornaments, and special gift tags from the Food Pantry. These gift tags are to accompany donations to the Food Baskets. It has become a cherished tradition for our St. Luke’s congregation to provide the Christmas dinners for the Food Pantry patrons. Presently, this effort ensures a Christmas meal for approximately 175 family units each year. A gift of $25 will purchase a ham and other food items for a complete Christmas dinner for four; however, donations in any amount will be gratefully received. The procedure is simple: just take a tag from the tree and put it in an envelope, along with your donation. Checks should be made payable to: Bread of Life Food Pantry and designated “Christmas dinners.” You can mail your gift to P.O. Box 909 or give it to the Church Office. “Tis the season,” so let’s all gather at The Giving Tree. You’ll be glad you did!
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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PROGRAM On , December 18th, our St. Luke’s family is cordially invited to view Christmas through the eyes of children, as our St. Luke’s youngsters present their Christmas Program at 10 A.M. (together with the service of Holy Eucharist.) We hope you will gather up family, friends, and those proud grandparents, and join us on this special occasion!
“God cannot give us a happiness and peace
This 10 A.M. Service and program will be followed by a Christmas Party in Onderdonk Hall. Santa will be there with gifts and goodies!
apart
There will also be a regular service of Holy Eucharist at 8:00 A.M. (Adult Bible Study will still meet at 9 A.M. in Onderdonk Hall. Children’s Sunday school at 10 A.M. is canceled for that morning.)
from Himself because
Again, we urge you to put this date on your calendar and be in attendance! This is a great opportunity to offer our support to our St. Luke’s young people and our ever growing and exciting Christian education program. And while you’re at it, this would be a good chance to say a BIG “Thank you” to Lisa Killian, Pam McFadden, Kellie Wasinger, and all who have contributed to the success of this vital ministry.
ALTAR GUILD CLEANING MEETING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23RD 10:00 A.M. Please plan to attend. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes ALL members to get ready for Christmas!
there.” ...C.S. Lewis
THANK YOU, ERIN, FROM ALL OF US!
ATTENTION, ALTAR GUILD MEMBERS! There will be an
it is not
As another year comes to a close, we again take this opportunity to say a word of thanks to our Sexton, Erin Eastwood. Erin is the young woman who works quietly behind the scenes, keeping our church and hall clean and presentable. She does her work modestly, without calling attention to herself, but we would quickly take notice if she ceased her efforts! It would be easy to take a person like Erin for granted, but we do not intend to let that happen! Thank you, Erin, from all of us, for what you do for your church family at St. Luke’s. We are blessed by your loving service and your presence among us!
NEED TO CONTACT FR. DOUG? Office Hours: Tuesday—Friday 9:00 A.M.—Noon Day Off: Monday Address: 513 E. Hart Street Cell/Text: 307-620-0061 (Please feel free to use this number!)
“The birth of Christ brought God to man; the Cross of Christ brings man to God.”
...Borrowed
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LET’S GO CHRISTMAS CAROLING!
Tuesday, December 20th 8:00 P.M *** Meet at the church.
We invite YOU to join with our St. Luke’s Choir in an evening of fun and fellowship, as we sing our Christmas good wishes to our shut-in’s. The group will top off the evening at Linda Clark’s, enjoying hot chocolate and cider. Bring family and friends!
PLEASE BE PRAYING. There will be 3 positions open on St. Luke’s Vestry in 2017. Please pray for God’s guidance and discernment in filling these positions.
Worship Team Meeting, 11-15-2016 Persons present: Nancy Straight, Fr. Doug, Nancy Bartlett, Mary Gammon, Elaine Walker, Karen Walker, Louise Anderson, Emily Whipple and Linda Clark. After Nancy opened the meeting with prayer, Fr. Doug commented about Advent being our anticipation of the arrival of Hope. He encouraged us to listen for the Hope in all circumstances. Fr. Doug reported on the responses to our offering the $5,000 the Episcopal Foundation granted us to address poverty in our area. The Vestry decided to give an equal portion of the funds to three agencies that see people in our community that are struggling: The Family Crisis Center, The Senior Center and the Financial Peace University program. In each case the agency was initially acceptable but after Fr. Doug explained the “no strings attached,” “total benevolence” policy of the Foundation they warmed and became excited thinking about a family who could be helped. Discussion items included: Consecration Sunday-Dec. 11th –see further information in the Newsletter Advent Sunday Services—The advent wreath will be lowered and lit while Karen Walker reads and the choir and parish sings, “Christ Be our Light”. During communion the choir and parish will sing “While we are waiting Come.” Christmas Caroling—After the last advent choir practice on Dec. 21st. at 8 pm the choir and other interested parishioners will Carol to our shut-ins and end at Linda Clark’s home for cider and hot chocolate. All are welcome to participate. Christmas Services—There will be one service on Christmas Eve at 5 pm and one Service on Christmas Day at 9 am. On Christmas Eve the Baby Jesus of the Nativity Set will be carried in ahead of the choir by a local child. The next meeting will be on Dec. 20th at 10 am. Linda Clark, Scribe
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A LETTER FROM JOAN Nov. 3, 2016 Happy Thanksgiving from Wyoming! “But they that wait upon the Lord will renew their strength….” Isaiah 40:31 I have hesitated to write because I wasn’t sure what to write about- other than “waiting” and waiting doesn’t usually make for good stories. I came to the US right after school finished at the beginning of July. Our Langano School project agreement with the government had terminated on June 30 so I had no work permit or ID. The new agreement had been written and submitted and we were just waiting on its confirmation and for the issuing of my new documents. I came back to the US for a summer holiday of 3 or 4 weeks with a carry-on bag filled with summer clothes. I left my computer and other stuff in Addis figuring that I would be back in Ethiopia by the 15th of August. Then things stalled out: the agreement didn’t go through right away, there was some confusion regarding tax issues and then Ethiopia began to deal with political uncertainties. So here I am waiting in Wyoming. I had been so certain that I would be going back to Ethiopia ASAP I decided to rent out the little house where I was living. I figured that since the economy in our area had been significantly impacted by the down turn of the fossil fuel markets that it would take 6 weeks to two months to get it rented. That would give me plenty of time to clean, sort things and get my packing finished. Boy, was I wrong!!!! I had 7 calls within the first day and a half. It was rented within two days. The little gal that rented it was ready to move in immediately. As a result, mine was an expedited move.
It did make me very aware of a couple of things- the huge need in our small community for affordable housing. It also made me incredibly grateful to God for a place to stay and family members and friends who are willing to help out. It has also reminded me that we pray when we can accomplish nothing in our own strength- like Paul when he was a prisoner in Rome. This waiting has given me a new appreciation for Paul and the concern he expressed in his prison letters. He was tethered to the Roman guard, he got rumors and/or reports of problems about his friends and the churches where he had invested much of himself. There was very little he could do from a human perspective, so he did what counted- he prayed and he wrote to his friends encouraging them to be strong in their faith. In the past five or six months Ethiopia has experienced some political turmoil which led the government to declare a ‘state of emergency’ last month. It has been disconcerting to be in the US and only get bits and pieces of information. At the moment I’m in the US while friends and colleagues are in Ethiopia. I have heard lots of stories/reports, but whether they are true or not, I don’t know. At least for a time, all of the schools in our area were closed. I heard from our director and he said that our school was closed, but the staff was waiting for the government to give permission to re-open. I pray that the teachers will be ready and able to encourage the students when the school does open. The inability to be involved personally means that you must rely on the people who are left behind. You have to have confidence that they will carry the torch and get things done. I do—I’ve watched our staff give quality education and because I got a sneak preview of the teachers’ investment in other families in June just before I left Ethiopia. Case in point was Alemitu’s investment in Shumane and Mariyam. (Continued on next page)
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Alemitu and Shumane Shumane was a student at Langano School almost ten years ago. She was one of those gifted students, but during her fifth grade year she decided to get married. I was so disappointed because she had so much potential and the young man she married seemed so harum scarum. But they settled down and two years later they had a little girl named Mariyam. Frequently, Shumane would invite me to her house for coffee and a ‘chat’. The chatting was mostly playing games and puzzles with Mariyam while Shumane fixed coffee. I wanted to be able to share stories with Mariyam but my language was too limited to make it really fun for her. Often the point of the story got lost. Then one day I had a new thought. What about Alemitu, our science teacher? I asked Alemitu whether she would be willing to go with me and tell the Bible stories. She agreed and our encounter was delightful on several different levels. Mariyam and a lot of her friends got to hear a story told in their language. They also got to color pictures in the coloring book as Alemitu told the story again. Alemitu and Shumane were able to visit and establish the beginnings of a friendship. And equally important as we left Alemitu asked Mariyam if we would see her next year (2016-2017)at school. It was a blessing to see the networking happen and the potential for another generation of Langano School students to receive a good education and to hear the gospel. And it will be exciting to anticipate what will happen in Ethiopia while I am waiting in Wyoming. Please pray for the staff as another school year gets underway- that they will teach not only with words but by example as well. Please pray for peace within the country. As a friend once said to me, “We never appreciate peace until we don’t have it.” We serve an awesome God who is able to do more than what we think or imagine! Joan SIM Address: Joan Smith % SIM Box 7900, Charlotte, NC 28241-7900 Field address: Joan Smith, Box 127, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Email address: [email protected]
NO ROOM AT THE INN? The inn has no room for the child to be born. This is eternally and tragically true. For in the inn that is each one of us, there is constant holiday, constant crisis, constant distraction which crowds the rooms of our mind and heart and soul. Suddenly there is no room for anything except ourselves, our anxiety or passion or ambition. And at the gates of our consciousness, deep in our inmost being, God is offering us a new being to be born in the inn of our consciousness. It is too full of a thousand chattering guests. In his love God does not go away. Instead he goes, as we bid him, to a lower place, to the manger and cave of our unconscious being, and there in the shadows he comes to birth.” ...Herbert O’Driscoll, A Certain Life
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Making Advent Special with our Advent Wreath Researched by Louise Anderson Fr. Doug has been talking about Hope and our beautiful Advent wreath, made by the beautiful crafting of Dr. Bill Novotny, is a symbol to help us as we anticipate the arrival of Christ, the Light of the World and our Hope. The wreath is a circular shape, representing eternity. ( No beginning and no end) On that wreath are five candles; each representing a 1,000 years and an aspect of our spiritual preparation for the coming of the Lord Jesus. (Added together the four candles symbolize the 4,000 years that humanity waited for the world’s Savior-from Adam and Eve to Jesus.) As a whole these candles represent the coming of the LIGHT of Christ into the world. (Each week as a different Candle is lit, we will sing a small refrain to ask Jesus to come and to shine in our hearts and our church.) On the first Sunday of Advent, the first purple candle is lit. This candle is called the “Prophecy Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, primarily Isaiah, who gave us hope through the foretelling of the birth of Christ The second Sunday the second purple candle is lit representing love. It is called the “BETHLEHEM CANDLE” symbolizing Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem and Christ's manger. The Third Sunday a pink candle is lit. It is called the “SHEPHERDS CANDLE” and it represents the joy the world experienced at the coming birth of Jesus. (As a child we also believed that being pink, it could also represent MARY.) The fourth Sunday symbolizes peace with the “ANGELS CANDLE” and the message of the angels, “Peace on earth and good will toward all men.” On Christmas Eve the white center “CHRIST CANDLE” is lit. The white represents the sinless purity of Christ. We now can celebrate the life, the hope and light of Christ that has come into the world. ********************************** Celebrating with the Advent wreath during the weeks prior to Christmas is a great way to anticipate the true meaning of CHRISTmas!! PS. The candles are on the intentional side of the wreath but be sure to look at the underneath side of our beautiful wreath for Dr. Bill's special touches!!
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You can’t outgive God, but you CAN give back! Join us for
CONSECRATION SUNDAY on December 11th. ONE service at 9:00 A.M. (The Rev. Warren Murphy will be our guest.)
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY! “Happy are those who fear the Lord, who greatly delight in his commandments. Their descendants will be mighty in the land, the generation of the upright will be blessed.” ...Psalm 112:1b-2
Elaine Hough (12/2), Kim Harvey (12/2), Luke Palmerlee (12/3), Benjamin Norris (12/4), Matthew Iberlin (12/8), Cole Reiner (12/9), Dollie Iberlin (12/10), Amanda Kaufmann (12/10), James Griffith (12/10), Jeff Green (12/13), Andy Philpott (12/14), Sally Ramsbottom (12/14), Nathan Boyce (12/14), Amy Pierson (12/15), Spencer Bartley (12/17), Scott Gruntmeir (12/17), Don Bartlett (12/18), Aaron Griffith (12/18), Margaret Smith (12/18), Rich Gilbert (12/18), Shane Gammon (12/19), Karen Boggs (12/20), Kris Seals (12/20), Shawn Miller (12/20), Jenny Wuerker (12/20), Elijah Gonzales (12/21), Chris Newton (12/24), Dee Meyer (12/26), Joel Grace (12/29), Emerson Scott, III (12/29), Kelli Shetler (12/29), Max Rogers (12/29), Joan Smith (12/30), Jayfe Jerry (12/31), & Lorajane Kessler (12/31).
A PRAYER FOR CHRISTMAS His Spirit fill my hungering soul, His power all my life control, my deepest prayer, my highest goal, that I may be like Jesus.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! “Dearly beloved: We have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony.” ...BCP page 423
Mr. & Mrs. Ed Crain (12/16) Mr. & Mrs. Gary Havens (12/16) Mr. & Mrs. Gerry Miller (12/28) Mr. & Mrs. Matt DeLapp (12/29)
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY! (The following folks were baptized during the month of December.) “One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism; one God and Father of all.”
...BCP p. 299
Margo Mader (12/1), Adam Nimick (12/3), Bp. Vernon Strickland (12/5), Justin Blankenship (12/7), Lee Born (12/8), Laney Jo Mader (12/14), Gus James Mader (12/14), Dick Naill (12/15), Annaliese Engen (12/18), Zander Engen (12/18), Elaine Walker (12/19), Daisy Walker (12/19), Charles Wonka (12/19), Kati Harvey (12/23), Charlotte Eastwood (12/23), Arnie Griffith (12/24), Joel Killian (12/24), Wes Killian (12/24), Michael Mader (12/24), Linda Greenough (12/26), Matthew Iberlin (12/28), Brian Kessler (12/28), Jen Skaggs (12/28), & John Wonka (12/29).
…Thomas Chisholm
PRAYER FOR ST. LUKE’S Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
WORSHIP SCHEDULE Fr. Doug Wasinger
Sunday, December 4 8 & 10 A.M. Holy Eucharist 9 A.M. Adult Bible Study 10 A.M. Sunday School Sunday, December 11 Consecration Sunday 9 A.M. Holy Eucharist (Brunch at Bozeman’s to follow.)
Sunday, December 28 8 & 10 A.M. Holy Eucharist 9 A.M. Adult Bible Study 10 A.M. HE/Xmas Program
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 178 South Main Street P.O. Box 909 Buffalo, WY 82834
PAID BUFFALO, WY PERMIT #8
307-684-7529 [email protected] www.stlukes.diowy.org
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
December, 2016
CHRISTMAS SERVICES CHRISTMAS EVE, SATURDAY DECEMBER 24 5:00 P.M. Holy Eucharist
Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 Holy Eucharist
5 P.M.
Sunday, December 25 Christmas Day 9 A.M. Holy Eucharist Each Wednesday Holy Eucharist
7 A.M.
CHRISTMAS DAY, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 9 A.M. Holy Eucharist
