february 2016 the messenger

THE MESSENGER

February 2016Volume XXXI, Number 2

Global Impact CelebrationSt. Michael’s Church

Acts 1:8

Global Impact CelebrationJanuary 24 - February 7, 2016www.stmichaelschurch.net/GIC

UPDATED SCHEDULE OF EVENTSSUNDAY, JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 7

Register Today for the GICEvents, Prayer Walks and Mission Tours

at www.stmichaelschurch.net/gicor call the Church Office at 843.723.0603

HUNGERING WORLD EXPERIENCE

Monday, January 25 6:30 pm (Chapel)

Kenya - The Rev. Simon Mwaura live India - The Rt. Rev. Probal Dutta video Burundi - Simon Guillebaud video

Register

THE GATHERINGWednesday, January 27

6:30 pm Dinner, Praise & Worship,

Message & Small Group Discussion (Kinloch Room & Chapel)

Guest Preacher: The Rev. Simon Mwaura

Wednesday, February 36:30 pm

(Kinloch Room & Chapel)Preacher: The Rev. Dr. Peter C. Moore from the Anglican Leadership Institute

SUNDAYS

JANUARY 24 Guest Preacher All Services

The Rev. Dan RogersPastor of Christ the King, Dorchester

JANUARY 31 Guest Preacher All Services

The Rev. Chris Royer, Anglican Frontier Mission

TOOL TIME 9:15 AM

Islam Today: An Insider’s Perspective

Speaker: Sherif Yacoub (Kinloch Room)

12:00 N BBQ LUNCH (Kinloch Room)

Speaker: Chris Royer___________________

FEBRUARY 7 Guest Preacher All Services

The Rev. Claire Sullivan, The Hope Center, MA

TOOL TIME 9:15 AMThe Hope Center(Kinloch Room)

Speaker: Cisco Paulino

12:00 N Celebration Lunch & GIC Finalé

(Churchyard/Kinloch Room)Speaker Simon Mwaura

MEN’S LUNCH Wednesday, February 3

12:00 N (St. Philip’s Church

2nd Floor Parish Hall) GIC Speaker:

The Rev. Chris Royer

WOMEN’S LUNCHSaturday, February 6

11:00 am Faye Hill

The Rev. Claire SullivanTrish Lawrence (Kinloch Room)

Register

Global Impact CelebrationSt. Michael’s Church

Acts 1:8

MAIN EVENTS

PRAYER WALKSTUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2

12:00 pm Prayer Walk ~ Register(Meet in Kinloch Room)

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 61:00 pm

Family Prayer Walk ~ Register (Meet in Kinloch Room)

MINISTRY TOURSSIGN UP TODAY

Lowcountry Pregnancy Center Tour

MacDougal Prison Tour with Tim Terry ~ FreshStart Ministries

Kingdom Kids Bible Study Tour at Sanders Clyde

St. John’s Chapel & Agape Ministries Tour

Transforming Hearts Through Jesus Christ 3

From the Rector

St. Michael’s Sanctuary and Cole Farms2 Corinthians 9:13Because of the ministry you have provided, others will Praise God for the obedience that accompanies your profession of the Gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.

When you walk into St. Michael’s Church during Advent, it increasingly takes your breath away. The flower guild does a magnificent job of building anticipation to Christmas! Each week, the sanctuary looks a bit different, as more and greenery and color is added. In addition to the flower guild, I would like to thank Roy and Patty Cole, as well as Hal and Dale Frampton and the team at Cole Farms for donating all the greenery once again this year. From the trees to the trim, it was all once again magnificent! Thank you everyone!

Tuesday Courage for Our Confirmation Candidates1 Peter 3:15“Always be ready to give the reason for the hope you have within you.”

Picture the scene: It’s a dark and chilly Advent Tuesday morning, at the very unholy time of 6:30, and I’m going where? Each Tuesday during advent, one of our confirmation candidates faithfully gave witness at the early morning service. It was so inspiring! Many thanks to our confirmation candidates, including Greyson Hull, Coles Buyck, Laura Gruber, and our Confirmation Shepherd Potter Seibels. While the reward was a hot breakfast following, I continue to be humbled by their courage to speak their heart to many of whom they do not know. Well done, everyone! While I’m thanking our youngers, let me also say thank you to our Tower Bell team and friends who cooked the breakfasts. Thank you, C.J. and your team!

Christmas Life Group Blessing One of the joys of this year has been not only talking about the Life Group ministry, but also actually being part of one! Libby and I have hosted our group for two years, and it has become the one of the highlights of our lives. But this past week, our group turned a corner: While we normally use the discipleship toolbox of the church for our studies, we instead listened to a podcast by the Rev. John Eldredge,

The Rev. Rich Giersch with Laura Gruber, one of our youth confirmands

Fr. Al stares at his Christmas tree while reflecting on a John Eldridge podcast

4 Transforming Hearts Through Jesus Christ

From the Rector called “Finding Life at Christmas.” I absolutely recommend it to all, and you may find it online at http://www.ransomedheart.com/podcast/finding-life-christmas.

This podcast produced very powerful discussion in our group for two reasons. First, the authors were vulnerable enough to say that Christmas, even for clergy, can be painful and at times even dreaded, because of all the pressure, expectations, and spiritual battles. Secondly, Eldredge talked about the agreements we all occasionally make. He names what many of us, especially those who have gone through tragedy, are secretly thinking within our hearts: Christmas will be horrible again this year because _______________. The problem with such an agreement is that we then often find ourselves living into such an agreement! The prophecies come true! Eldredge ended the podcast by challenging the listeners to consecrate Christmas, dedicating it to Jesus, making it holy, joy-filled.

I remember listening to the podcast with our Life Group, staring at our Christmas tree and the ethereal lights, the quiet of the night giving way to the challenge over the speakers. The ensuing conversation was one of the richest, most life-giving conversations we’ve ever had. It reminded us once again that Jesus was born not just to bring comfort, but also to redefine our lives, giving us the needed do-overs!

Praying from Atop the SteepleYou may not know this, but the Diocese of South Carolina is divided into deaneries, which are groups of regional parishes. Our deanery consists of St. Philip’s Church, St. John’s Church (Hanover Street), The Cathedral, Holy Cross (Sullivan’s Island) and Christ Church (Mt. Pleasant). About every six weeks, the clergy of the deanery get together for lunch in one of our churches. We hosted this past week, providing a hot lunch, followed by a prayer session at the top of our steeple. In unity, we prayed for each church in the deanery by facing the direction of that church. It was quite moving and powerful. You may not know this, but our nearly 300-year old (and newly painted) steeple not only looks beautiful, but is also a great place in which to pray for the rest of the world!

Rectory Yard Being Redeveloped Along with DependencyIt really takes your breath away. The next time you drive into the parking lot, take a look at the Dependency, and you will find a whole new look! The next phase of the Dependency renovation is complete,

Clergy from our deanery in St. Michael’s steeple

The Rectory backyard - before and after

Working on the sidewalk

A new fence is put up


From the Rector having removed trees, shrubs, and the muckity muck in the Rectory yard. The work of clearing out the yard had to happen to maximize sun exposure on the nearly 300 year-old building. And now that we have a larger open space, we also can host more events in the Rectory yard. The next phase of the project is to finish repointing the bricks on the alley side to keep moisture from entering the building. Stay tuned as we continue to make progress toward its completion.

Disturbing TrendBecause Charleston has a such a strong heritage of faith and faithfulness, we are normally behind the averages when alarming statistics about faith and church pop up—but not this one. In his article below, Art Heinz points out a very troubling statistic that is red-hot nationally and locally: a trend where more and more folks are going to church monthly if they feel like it, instead of the faith-filled Sunday by Sunday.

Now I know that we are on tricky ground here. It’s easy to fall into legalism on the one hand, and cheap grace on the other. But if we believe we were created to worship the ever-living God, skipping it for other things can do great damage to our spiritual lives. Read on…

Skipping ChurchBy Art Heinz

The overwhelming consumerist mentality in our nation has spilled over and saturated the thinking of Christians throughout the Church in the United States. More and more believers in America approach the concept of finding and remaining in a church the same way they would handle buying a car, shopping for the latest technological advancement, or choosing a movie to watch. An institution whose founder came not to be served, but to serve, has been tainted by a ceaseless drum beat of “what can you do for me?” The worship environment, the style of music, the dress code, the church programming, and the overall focus of the church, is no longer about the Lord and His agenda, but about the personal preferences of individual church shoppers.

The crisis of commitment and ownership in the American Church is reflected in the 2015 Pew Research Study that showed a serious decline in Americans self-identifying as Christians. The problem is demonstrated any given month as families who used to attend church weekly and even several times a week now attend services one to two times a month (and I’m not referring to the shut-in, the sick, or those who must work). It is impossible to build anything of consequence in any sector of society with such inconsistency.

Imagine if a construction crew showed up to a building site only once or twice a month. Think of what would happen if physicians and nurses manned the hospitals and ERs only a couple of times a month. Consider the problems in education if our teachers worked only two days a month.

And yet, the welfare and future of our great nation hangs in the balance as rabid hedonists, religious fanatics, and ignorant young socialists and progressives march on fully committed to their causes. We cannot build godly, committed, and society-changing future generations with a selfish hit and miss approach to church.

The key to the restoration of our culture and society is not the economy, our healthcare system, or even education, but the tone and temperature of our nation spiritually. How can cold, lifeless, church skipping Christians possibly be the catalyst for fanning the flames of spiritual renewal and fire in the United States? This coldness and lifelessness is reflected in the attitude of the Christian who says I don’t need to attend church all that much because I can get my spiritual food online or through broadcast media. The attitude is reflected in the individual who says I don’t need to go to church because I can commune with God in nature on my own. It’s reflected in the family that emphasizes every other kind of activity and pursuit other than spiritual education in the name of putting the family first. It’s reflected by the one who points to their hurts, their disappointments, or their needs as an excuse to be absent from church. It’s reflected in church workers who only show up to church when they are scheduled to serve, teach, or lead. It’s reflected by parents who teach their children, by ungraciously and habitually leaving church after church, that the Church and its people are fatally flawed.

It’s reflected in the people who pursue amusement, recreation, and entertainment to the detriment of their spirituality and places of worship.

So, what’s the issue here? The primary issue is a fundamental misunderstanding of why we gather as Christians. True, we gather to worship God, learn the principles of God’s Word, and fellowship with one another. But if you read the words of the writer of Hebrews, our priority is gathering so that we can encourage and help one another to progress spiritually in an increasingly secular, pessimistic, and antagonistic culture: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Luke tells us Jesus, the one we say we are following, left an example of faithful attendance explaining, “on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom” (Luke 4:16). Think about that. Jesus, the Son of God, had a habit of going to the house of God. How much more do His followers need to develop that habit?

The culprits in the current spiritual malaise and indifference in our country are the selfish Christians who fail to consider how they can help, assist, and encourage someone else by coming faithfully to church instead of focusing on and serving their own wants, preferences, needs, and schedules. That single mindset of coming to church not for what you can receive, but for what you can provide is the key to a true spiritual renewal in our land. When you are not in


From the Rector church the gifts and abilities in you are not made available to others. That’s why skipping church is selfish and the complete opposite of the example of Jesus, the mission of Jesus, and the commands of Jesus. If you are a consistent, constant, and faithful church goer, don’t let anything stop you from continuing in your dedication. If you have become distant, cold, lifeless, and selfish in absenting yourself and your family from the Church, repent and return to a faithful lifestyle and relationship with your local church. As the writer of Hebrews challenged us, we should become more diligent and dedicated to one another as we see the end coming, not more selfish.

A Brief Reflection on Skipping ChurchHeinz makes the key point that worship is about advancing our spiritual lives, and that often comes at a cost. This is evident in the following real-life testimony of a parishioner, who has given me permission to share her experience.

Dear Fr. Al:This past Sunday, you caught me as I was rushing in with baby Finn (and the Operation Christmas Child boxes), so as not to be late for the 9:30 service.

When you asked how we were doing, I gave a typical, rushed mom response of how my kids are and that we had made it. What I should have said was, “We are glad to be here!” and then asked about what is new with Al! I’ve been thinking all day about the conversation that I cut short because I was in a hurry, and I am so sorry if I offended you by not chatting longer. I sure am bummed I didn’t slow down and catch up with you... It’s been a while since we’ve talked, and that was the perfect opportunity! Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for your response, first of all, for recognizing that it does take work to get to church (or anywhere with young kids, for that matter!).

But I also wanted to let you know that once I settled in upstairs, I was relaxed, filled with joy, and thoroughly enjoyed the 9:30 service, as I always do. I know it takes a lot of work to put on the service and wanted you and your team to know that it is much appreciated. The time and atmosphere of that service are perfect for our family life. I always come in breathing a sigh of relief that I even made it there (and that I didn’t forget to change out of my slippers!) and leave feeling fulfilled, rejuvenated, and refocused on God’s word.

So thank you, thank you, for continuing to provide an amazing environment in which we can worship. Until next time... when I will slow down and spend more time chatting, Megan Louis

May this be an encouragement, and an inspiration to all for 2016!

Sabbatical LeaveIn remaining obedient to Scripture and the biblical policies of the Diocese of South Carolina, the Zadig family will be going on sabbatical for three months, beginning Sunday, June 5. Our diocesan policy on sabbaticals is as follows:

“In the Lord’s life we see intense activity and contact with people alternating with time apart, time to listen and to be replenished. Clergy sabbatical time is necessary for the ongoing growth, nourishment and renewal of those who are ordained to lead the people of God and the congregations which they serve.

Purpose:The Diocese of South Carolina strongly encourages parishes to join in a covenant with their clergy to provide for periods of a more stimulating and regenerative experience than is possible during short periods of continuing education.

Sabbatical leave is a carefully planned period of time, usually three months after the first seven years service to a congregation, in which the clergy is granted leave away from normal duties in order to spend an extended period of time in study, reflection, and renewal. Sabbatical leave is not a vacation, nor is it only continuing education; it is to promote a priest’s spiritual, intellectual and emotional renewal and growth. Sabbaticals are also a time for the clergy to reflect on his or her life, parish, mission, call and goals for the future, in order to be a more effective minister of the Gospel and shepherd God’s people.”

So, in keeping with this biblical best practice, we will head out in June. I have divided our time away into three parts.

• The first is Faith and Family. We will begin in Boston on June 12, where I will preach for my father’s official retirement service at Grace Church Oxford. That week, we will all gather around the baptismal font at the Church of the Advent in Boston, where my father converted from Judaism. Our sabbatical will officially begin as he recounts his own baptism as an adult, retelling the story of his conversion to Christianity. That will be our launch into a month of faith pilgrimage to the beginnings of Anglicanism in England and Scotland. We will also go to Eilean Donan Castle on Loch Duich, near the Isle of Skye, where Libby and I were engaged 22 years ago!

• The second part will be solo and focus on my own continuing education. I will travel to Regent Seminary (home of J. I. Packer) and enter summer school on biblical leadership.

• The third part will be writing and reflection.

Bishop Lawrence took his 2015 summer sabbatical and has been a great help in creating mine. The Rev. Mark Avera will take over while I’m away, supported by our excellent clergy team, Vestry and staff. More details to come!


From the Clergy

New Lifeby Robert BurnettI had the privilege recently of participating in the funeral of a longtime St. Michael’s member who had, in recent years, taken ill with a degenerative disease. I say “privilege” because it is an honor to share such an intimate event with a family.

The day began at the graveside in Magnolia Cemetery, overlooking a tributary of the Cooper River. The service included communion for the family and a handful of friends, followed by interment. Surely this last act has to be the most wrenching and emotional moment of any service because the utter finality it signals...it feels as if the hand of someone you love deeply slips loose from your grip, and they are truly gone forever. The loss feels brutally real.

And yet there was an unmistakable, almost palpable feeling of renewal that morning--not because of readings from Scripture, or prayers recited in unison, or even the words of tribute--but because the finality of burial was paired with the celebration of Communion: it felt as if sharing the Eucharist linked everyone beyond their shared grief, and reminded us of the new life that awaited.

Later in the day was a large and very public service at St. Michael’s—beautiful in a very different way, and more overtly celebratory of this kind man’s life and legacy. I wondered as I looked around if he had known how many people he’d obviously touched—and by extension, if any of us still alive really have any idea of how many people we may impact, for better or worse, as we navigate our own lives. And who...to be honest...doesn’t wonder how many people would show up at our own day?

Memorial services not only commemorate the lives of those who pass, but can help the still-living remember how short our days are, how they can be better spent, and the guidance that Christ can give us if we let Him. That kind man, so obviously beloved by his family and community, gave both one last gift that morning.

Robert Burnett is an active member of St. Michael’s who serves as a Eucharistic Visitation Minister, bringing communion to housebound and incapacitated members of the congregation. He resides downtown with his wife Susan and their two daughters.

Did You Know?She’s a lovely ole gal, isn’t she? Our church has graced the skyline of Charleston with her fine lines and proportions for over 250 years. And as you might imagine, it takes a lot of paint and some unusual equipment to get her painted. The recent steeple painting by steeple jacks from Robert Morgan & Co. was amazing to watch, and the corner of Broad and Meeting found many people stopping and looking on with a childlike wonder. Believe it or not, this group of professionals gave the steeple the best paint job she has had in recent memory at a savings of nearly $60,000 over the next lowest bid we received. Still not cheap, but a wise use of funds.

Funding for the steeple painting this year came from The St. Michael’s Church Declaration of Trust (the “Trust”). This Trust is a separate 501(c)(3) corporation currently comprised of two funds: the Foundation Fund, and the Education Fund. The Education Fund supports members of St. Michael’s Church that are at seminary preparing for ordained ministry. The Foundation Fund supports improvements to, restoration and maintenance of, and the care and preservation of the facilities, buildings, grounds and equipment which further the mission and vision of St. Michael’s Church. It was this latter Foundation Fund that provided the monies for the recent steeple painting.

The Trust is funded largely by estate and memorial gifts. Currently only a maximum of 5% of the average of the last three years’ ending balances may be granted for the above purposes. Our hope is to grow the Trust to such a level that we will always have the resources to keep St. Michael’s standing tall as a witness to the Holy City and beyond. You can be a part of strengthening the legacy of our lovely ole gal by remembering St. Michael’s in your will or making a contribution to the Foundation Fund.

~ The Rev. Mark Avera


From the Clergy

The Chance of a LifetimeIn this season of Christmas, I’m reminded of a scene from my favorite Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life. George Bailey is paying a special visit to his friend Mary, with something like courtship (at least unconsciously) in mind. However, things to do not get off to a good start, and then, as emotions intensify, one of George’s friends calls up on the telephone out of the blue and offers George “The Chance of a Lifetime.” What is this amazing opportunity? Getting in on the ground floor of a business venture involving plastics. Fortunately, George drops the telephone, and what follows is one of the great loves scenes in the history of cinema.

“Chances of a Lifetime,” by definition, do not happen every day (and often, they are grossly exaggerated, as in the story above). But this does not mean they never happen. Indeed, I was recently presented with an opportunity that has led me to think in these superlative terms. I was asked if I would consider being part of the inaugural Anglican Leadership Institute, an invitation extended by our very own Very Rev. Dr. Peter Moore, the Director of this initiative.

Briefly, the Anglican Leadership Institute is an outgrowth of Mere Anglicanism. Bishop Mark Lawrence, in his 2014 Convention Address, called for the creation of a leadership training initiative that would bring future leaders in the Anglican Communion to South Carolina for periods of study, teaching, reflection, and nurture.

According to the A.L.I. website:Leadership is linked to character even before it is linked to competence.

So, our four-week intensive training will focus on who leaders are supposed to be as much as what they are supposed to do.

Each day, we will emerge from worship to hear and interact with thoughtful teaching from experienced faculty. Out of their training and giftedness, they will apply the message of Jesus Christ to church history, theology, preaching and modern culture.

Afternoons will culminate in a two-hour colloquy where we will interact in small groups with the theme of leadership as brought to us by gifted leaders from both church and society. Some of our discussion will be shaped by case studies where realistic challenges call for wise responses.

Evenings will include special guest speakers, while weekends will bring opportunities for ministry in local churches.

Finally, the January 2016 Semester will culminate in a three-day immersion on the subject of Islam presented by a phalanx of scholars at the Mere Anglicanism Conference.

Of course, I feel honored and humbled to be invited. For one thing, I will have the opportunity to sit at the feet of the great Anglican leaders in the world today (folks like the Rt. Rev. Mark Lawrence, the Rt. Rev. Alden Hathaway, the Rt. Rev. Michael Nazir Ali, the Very Rev. Peter Moore, the Rev. Rob Sturdy, Dr. Allen Ross, Dr. Paul Marshall, and our own Dr. Melody Martini and Bill Hewitt). For another, I will be able to rub shoulders on a daily basis with fourteen “risings

stars” within Anglicanism today (many of whom are bishops). If even a little of their character, wisdom, and grace rubs off on me during this season of training and fellowship, you may not recognize me come February! Incidentally, while I won’t be the youngest of the fifteen participants (only the second youngest!), I will be the only North American representative. Again, it will be a wonderful opportunity to step outside of my provincial comfort zone and into a broader network of relationships in Christ’s global body.

What this means practically for the pastoral ministry of St. Michael’s is that while I will continue to serve at St. Michael’s liturgically on Sundays throughout the month of January, during the workweek, I will be fully immersed in the Leadership Institute (held on Sullivan’s Island) and will not be accessible by phone or email.

In my absence, the Rev. Ted McNabb has graciously agreed to serve in an interim capacity as our priest for pastoral care. Therefore, if any pastoral needs arise, please feel free to call the church office or reach out to Fr. Ted directly at [email protected]. Fr. Ted is a dear friend and mentor, and I have every confidence that our flock will receive the very best of care in his capable and compassionate hands.

Finally, a great thank you to Fr. Al, Fr. Peter, Fr. Ted, our clergy team, our vestry, our staff, and our parishioners, for making this possible and for graciously sending me forth with your blessing. Please pray with me that the fruits of this unique opportunity will be reflected throughout our parish in the years ahead.

With gratitude and love,The Rev. David Booman

Worship on WednesdayHealing Service 5:30 pm in the Church


From the Vestry & Mobilization

Vestry NewsAfter months of hard work and combing through details, the Vestry passed a balanced budget for the 2016 fiscal year at its December meeting. We have tightened the belt to bring expenses in line with income projections based on years of data, and with God’s help we anticipate a solid ministry year undergirded by solid fiscal responsibility. Thank you for your faithfulness in giving to the ministries of St Michael’s. It is your tithes and offerings that enable everything to happen. There is no endowment fund that helps with operations. It is the simple faithfulness of our parishioners that allows St Michael’s to be a lighthouse to the Holy City and beyond so that lives are transformed for the glory of Jesus Christ.

The vestry also approved plans to continue and complete the renovation of the dependency. Please check out the progress next time you are near the parking lot off St Michael’s Alley.

Work is currently underway to establish a comprehensive safety plan for the church. Thanks to Greg Kitchens and his safety team for laying the groundwork for this plan.

The Vestry thanks you for the privilege of serving St Michael’s in 2015. We trust that God will continue to provide for the work He has purposed in us as we move into the new year.

Volunteer OpportunityChurch ReceptionistLooking for a purposeful volunteer opportunity in a joyful, encouraging, Christ-centered environment?

Well, we are looking for you!

The St. Michael’s Church office would love to have a few volunteers who would be interested in volunteering their time serving as the Church Receptionist. This position would work alongside our Information Specialist, Brittany Gordon, assisting with answering phone calls and relaying information regarding church happenings. If you enjoy people, have a desire to get to know your church family better, don’t mind chatting on the phone, and have 2-3 hours a day, once or twice a week, then we would be blessed to have you on our team. Office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm, and Friday, 8:30 am–3:00 pm. If interested, contact Brittany Gordon in the office by calling (843) 723-0603 or email her at [email protected].

Other Volunteer Opportunities: Communication Ministry

• Social Media Posting• Photographer• Photo Editor• Photo Librarian• Slideshow Creator

Births: Welcoming!December 7, 2015 Nelson Heyward Davenport Grimball, son of

Francis Heyward Grimball and Paige Nelson Grimball

Marriage: Congratulations!December 5, 2015 William Johnson Stevens, III and Angela Hamer

Dillard Salmons at St. Michael’s Church by The Rev. Alfred T.K. Zadig Jr.

December 26, 2015 James Edwards Groetzinger and Candice Arren Jeffords at St. Michael’s Church by The Rev. Mark W. Avera

Deaths: Rest EternalDecember 25, 2015 Constance Davis Hare

Transfers In: Welcome! December 7, 2015 Kevin S. and Virginia “Ginny” Lomel Conlon

and their daughter, Alexa McClure Conlon from St. Philip’s Church, Charleston, SC

Margaret Jane “Maggie” Conlon from St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Charleston, SC

December 22, 2015 Elizabeth Anne “Betty” Schaffer from the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul, Charleston, SC

Drs. Sherif Zaghloul and Elena Nareika Tarasowa Yacoub and their children, Sophie Michelle, Veronica, and Dimitri from Mountainview United Methodist Church, Kingsport, TN

Transfers Out: God bless…December 7, 2015 Elizabeth Roemig Cooper to The Cathedral of

St. Luke and St. Paul, Charleston, SC

December 14, 2015 Robert Layton and Gwen Atkinson McCurdy to Grace Episcopal Church, Charleston, SC

~ Barbara Miller, Database Volunteer

PAROCHIAL UPDATESDecember 2015

From the Parish Register

To read details, sign up, or to view more opportunities to serve visit www.stmichaelschurch.net/serving and click on View Serving Opportunities


Mobilization ~ Worship & Transformation ~ Alpha

Got questionsabout lifeJoin us for

AlphaTuesdays & Thursdays

[email protected]

Spring Alpha DirectorDavid GilkesonI first heard of Alpha from my sister-in-law from England where she was taking the course. Upon moving to Charleston and visiting churches, my minister from Virginia recommended St Michael’s. My late wife and I started coming to St Michael’s in 2012 and attended Spring Alpha in 2013. Being a Christian for

many years, I was intrigued with the concept. It was basically presenting the gospel in a non-threatening way to unbelievers and new Christians. As with anything, I learned a lot through the talks. It strengthened my faith. After my wife’s passing, I felt led to help with the Spring Alpha in 2014 and became a helper. It was a great blessing and a wonderful way to connect with people. Since then, I became a leader and have been blessed tremendously in seeing people grow in the Lord. The Lord really blessed the Fall Alpha, and we all felt the Holy Spirit move in a mighty way. I encourage anyone searching for meaning in life to come to the Spring Alpha. You will be truly blessed.

Ash Wednesday7:30 am | 12:00 N | 5:30 pm Holy Communion with the Imposition of the Ashes(Evening time changed due to The Gathering at 6:30 pm)

Last 4 Lenten TuesdaysMarch 1, 8, 15, 22 | 7:00 amHoly Communion, Rite II / Breakfast follow

Community Lenten ServicesWednesdays in Lent | 12:00 pmFebruary 24 at St. Michael’s March 2 at First Baptist ChurchMarch 9 at St. John’s LutheranMarch 16 at First (Scots) Presbyterian

Theme: Why Does It Matter? Lunch follows

A Lenten Quiétude Service5:30 pm Wednesday, March 2 This service will help us quiet our minds for this holy and penitential season, through a night of contemplation, silence, and prayer.


Transformation

Ministry of Women Advent Brunch a ReflectionOn Saturday, December 7, 2015, St. Michael’s Ministry of Women hosted the annual ladies’ Advent Brunch – made remarkable this year by the Brunch prepared by our own Director of Missions and chef extraordinaire, Andy Hein! The men of the Church (Andy Hein, Jay Siebels, Rev. Mark Avera, Tom Acker, Bruce Bahlav, Matt Ozment, Gary McLauren, Rev. Al Zadig and Mikell Scarborough) helped in the kitchen and became first-rate waiters.

The Kinloch Room looked ready for Christmas, adorned with wreaths hand-made by Judi Brantley hanging in the windows, and with luxuriant greenery as table centerpieces also carefully crafted by Judi, who made spectacular red bows for each, as well. The entire setting made us all feel that special spirit that only comes at Christmas, thanks to Judi and her gifts to us all.

Nearly 100 ladies attentively listened as Dr. Allston Kitchens shared the story of her life of faith, sprinkled with glimpses into her life as a medical doctor, Peace Corps volunteer, mother, wife and daughter of Rev. and Mrs. Fitzsimmons Allison. We would so easily see her humanity as she illustrated some of her ups and downs thus far in her journey. Allston warmed our hearts as she opened hers to us so freely and with such good humor.

The Committee that made this possible and wonderful included: Joy Avera, Judi Brantley, Pam Klein, Pam Smith, Elizabeth Zadig, Angela McLester – as well as Susan Waring and Vicki Vázquez, as our staff support. Thank you one and all for your heart and help this year!

~ Duval Acker

Baby Shower for the Lowcountry PregnancyCenterOn Sunday, February 28, 2016, from 2:00-4:00 pm, please join us for a Baby Shower (in the Kinloch Room) for the Lowcountry Pregnancy Center, to help their disadvantaged moms/clients! We will enjoy tasty treats, stories, wonderful fellowship and the fun of unwrapping all the goodies you bring to give. Those gifts can be anything: disposable diapers, formula, bottles and accessories, books for Mom to read to her little one, baby necessities, clothing, toys and even larger items like strollers, pack and plays or cribs (must be new and meet safety guidelines). If you are a parent or grandparent, you’ll fondly recall the precious moments of baby life. Here is our chance to help those who can’t provide with the bounty God has given to us. Please RSVP to Brittany - thank you! Susan Burnett (843) 327-7908 or Duval Acker (843) 693-0690. May God richly favor you and those you love!

Life Group MinistryAn Invitation to Join a Women’s Neighborhood Bible StudyBeginning the first week of January 2016, weekly neighborhood Bible studies will be held in homes around the Lowcountry. These groups are designed for women of all ages who are looking to study God’s word and fellowship with other women of St. Michaels. All groups will follow along with the Toolbox (www.stmichaelschurch.net/toolbox) that the St. Michael’s Clergy and Staff have organized. We will come together in May for a closing ceremony to celebrate our friendships and share what we have learned. Please sign up for the group that is most convenient for you to attend. You will be contacted by your group facilitator with further details.

To join a Bible study, please email or call Lynda Panaretos, Volunteer Life Group [email protected] or Cell: 248-229-4570

Downtown CharlestonWednesday evenings 7:00 pm- 8:30 pmFacilitator: Martha DaughertyHostess: Lois DaughtridgeLocation: 77 King St

Mount PleasantTuesday evenings6:30 pm - 8:00 pmFacilitator: Pam KleinHostess: Beth StuckeyLocation: 1291 Chatfield St.(between Long Point Rd and Mathis Ferry Rd)

Isle of PalmsWednesday mornings 9:30 am Hostess and Facilitator: Joy AveraLocation: #9, 19th Ave.

Johns IslandMonday Evening6:30 - 8:15 pmHostess and Facilitator: Alice GordonLocation: 2780 August Rd

West Ashley/James IslandTuesday evening 7:00 - 8:30 pmFacilitator: Julie Akers and Merrilee KinneyHostess: Audrey BuckLocation: 5 Beverly Rd, Charleston(In Old Windemere)


Transformation

Join us at St. Christopher for a refreshing time of encouragement and equipping as we learn about leading and following as men of God. This year’s conference will include teachings by Shay Gaillard, Rector at Church of the Good Shepherd, Charleston; a testimony and workshop on radical mentoring from Regi Campbell, author of Mentor Like Jesus (radicalmentoring.com); a talk on Family Ministry by our very own St. Michaelite, Scott Cave, worship and a workshop from Todd Fields, worship leader for North Point Community Church (toddfields.com).

Enjoy spending time with men from all over in a beachfront envrionment. This has become a favorite conference for fathers and sons throughout the years.

All men 13 and older are welcome to join in this time of spiritual growth and fellowship.

Register at www.diosc.com

Daddy Daughter Dance in Mount PleasantSt. Peter’s ChurchFriday, Feb 19, 6:30 – 8:30 pmThis special evening is designed for fathers and daughters. Grand-fathers and other significant father figures are encouraged to join in on the fun. The evening will include music and dancing, dinner and a chance for special pictures. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your little girl out on a date and show her how a gentleman treats a lady! Also don’t forget to invite your neighbors and friends to join you with their daughters on this special night.Tickets are $25 per couple and $5 for each additional daughter. All proceeds will benefit our friends in Honduras who live in the Chil-dren’s Home at LAMB Institute

The link to buy tickets is as follows: http://www.saintpeters.me/home-page/father-daughter-dance-2/

~ Cyndee Cave, Children and Families Ministry

4 Generations Baptized at St. Michael’s

On January 17, we baptized Tucker Gadsden Thornhill son of Au-tumn and Christopher Thronhill. This will mark the 4th generation of Thornhill’s to be baptized at St. Michael’s Church. Please join us to pray for all our Baptized families. Visit our Baptism board near the Kinloch room to see all who have been newly Baptized. The greatest gift that God could send, He sends with love to you: A sweet and helpless little child, an obligation, too. Each baby that God gives to us is merely lent a while to cherish, love, protect, and guard from every snare and wile. To form within this child’s heart HIS image good and true. God bless this tiny new loved babe and may He bless you too.~ Cyndee Cave, Children and Families Ministrywww.stmichaelschurch.net/baptism


Transformation – Children’s Ministry

Tool Time Track 2 The Truth Project (Chapel)Sundays at 10:45 amLed by David Booman & Scott CaveThe Truth Project by Dr. Del TackettThis study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Each lesson discusses in great detail the relevance and importance of living the Christian worldview in daily life.Focus on the Family produced.

Sunday School10:30 amKids Club ~ 4th & 5th Grade (203)5k (Room 201)1st - 3rd Grade (204) ABC 3’s and 4’s (202)Parents must pick up their child during the 10:30 am service announcements (around 11:20)

4ᵗ� - 5ᵗ� Grade

Toddler Time has Expanded!Our philosophy is to promote the needs of the individual child through developmentally appropriate activities enhancing spiritual, physical, emotional, social and cognitive

growth in a nurturing Christian environment. Our purpose is to further St. Michael’s mission statement: Transforming Hearts Through Jesus Christ.

Toddler Time 1, 2, 3 & 4 is a one year program designed specifically for children who are 11 through 48 months old by September 1st. Toddler Time 1 meets on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 to 11:30 am and Toddler Time 2, 3 & 4 the same except extended until 12:30 pm. Contact Cyndee Cave 843.724.7579 [email protected]

TO

DDLER TIME

A MINISTRY OF ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH

Transforming Li�le Hearts Through Jesus Christ

A Huge Turnout for the Gingerbread Nativity Workshop!

Movie Night for KidsDate night for parents!

Friday, February 126:00 pm - 9:30 pm

The ChapelDinner, Games and Movie time

Cost $10 per familyAges 5 - 12

RSVP: Cyndee Cave, [email protected]


Transformation

Christmas PageantChristmas Pageant


“Building A Legacy That Matters”

June 20-24, 2016

GrandCamp is an amazing inter-generational adventure designed to transport grandparents and their grandkids away form the daily distractions of life to a place where God can do something extraordinary in building a legacy of faith from one generation to another.

June 20th–24th, 201 at St. Christopher Camp and Conference Centeron Seabrook Island, SC.

Grandparents and Grandkids target age: 6-12 years old

$349 per person: includes all meals, lodging, and events

What is GrandCamp?

When and Where?

Who’s invited?

Cost?

Register with Cheryl Cargill at 843-276-1427 or [email protected]

6

Transformation


Transformation

We are heading to Recife, Brazil this summer to partner with YWAM (Youth with a Mission) June 13-21. This will be a life-changing St. Michael’s youth experience. Here’s what we’ll be up to.

Information from YWAM:Our program for volunteers is bilingual, just like our training schools and is a full-time program. The focus of the program for volunteers is to provide short term missionary experiences for those that have a heart for missions. Our program and activities will strengthen your relationship with God and give you a lot to reflect on about the needs of this world. We hope you will leave a different person then when you arrived, holding onto the principles and experiences you received on the mission field. Below you will find practical information about our program.

ACTIVITIESThese are some of the different areas that you could be involved in:

Outreach/Evangelism - We have been doing outreach since 1992 with the children on the streets of Recife, touching their hearts through friendship, Bible stories, first aid and games. The team makes first contact with the children on the streets.

Love Project works with families, women, girls and pregnant teens to help them discover their potential and personal value. We reach

families by doing home visits, counseling, workshops, and crafts. This allows them to be capable and productive, and in turn creates a good family structure. Empowering them to be self-supporting and free from addictions is also one of the goals.

Christian Heritage School - Educating children has been a strategy we use to reach and transform this generation. CHS receives little ones starting at the age of 2 years old from six different neighborhoods in Camaragibe, where there are the highest rates of encroachments and slums in the city and huge rates of social inequality. The school offers, education, personal care, snack, tutoring etc. As well as reaching out to the families of the children through events and regular meetings. The school is functioning in a three-story building with the capacity to receive 300 students, up to Grade 12.

Soccer Show Project - Currently serves 200 kids and teens between 9 to 18 years old with social and educational activities through our soccer school. Besides developing soccer skills, the participants and their families receive ministry about the love of God.

We also provide personal and group discipleship and home visits.Meeting - February 7 4:30pm - 5:30pm Parent(s) and youth need to be present. Sign up today! Contact Rich Giersch | [email protected]

All Senior High Students and Some Adults! Mission Trip to Recife, Brazil June 13-21

Coming in March!The Order of St. LukeA Seven-Week Course on the Healing Miracles of Jesus

Please read below the testimony of one of the many, many people who have been blessed and had their relationship with Jesus enriched, by this Bible study of His healing ministry in the gospels. This class is facilitated by Johnnie and Jean Corbett. The Corbetts know that Jesus still heals today. They have seen and experienced His healing grace during mission trips to the Ukraine and India as well as right here at St. Michael’s church.

To sign up for this 7-week course, please contact Jeanine Branham at jeanine@stmichaelschurch.

The cost is $45.00 for individuals and $55.00 total for couples. Materials must be ordered ahead of time, so please sign up early!

Open to all Alpha graduates. Specific dates and times forthcoming.

Life Groups – Grow in your understanding and experience of Jesus’ healing ministry by taking this class together as a Life Group!

An OSL testimony from Scott MyersFor most of my adult life, I wondered how it must have felt to be one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. Sitting at the feet of the Master, living history as it unfold-ed, and, of course, witnessing the healing power of God Almighty in person.

A few years ago, after completing the Alpha Course at St. Michael’s, my heart was set on digging deeper into my faith. I studied and attended several extraordinary courses that did a wonderful, if not blessed, job of introducing and indoctrinating me on the subject of discipleship. But I always felt that I was missing something, something that would further open my heart and my mind to the love of the Lord.

At about the same time I was searching for this missing something, my friend Paul Lankau began asking Jean Corbett about the OSL course. I had never heard of the OSL course, but when Jean and Paul informed me that it was an in-depth study of the healing miracles of the Lord Jesus Christ, I immediately signed up.

The next thing I knew, I was immersed in an environment where forty new friends and I were learning the who, what, where, and when of God’s healing power here on earth. Through discussion with my OSL classmates and the wonderful teachings of Johnnie and Jean, this study truly changed the way I viewed the power of prayer and opened my eyes to the reality that God abso-lutely, positively, still heals today!


Transformation

CoupleTalk

I am so excited that our classes began, as Worship on Wednesday returned this winter. What a wonderful way to be refreshed during the week. WOW began January 20, 5:30 - 6:30 pm. After WOW, a casual meal will be served in the Kinloch Room from 6:15 until 7:00, for those who wish to eat before class ($5.00 donation). The meal is open to everyone, whether or not you attend WOW or are enrolled in a class. It is our hope that this will be a time to fellowship with others and reconnect with our spouses. CoupleTalk begins at 7:30 pm and will finish promptly at 8:30 pm. Childcare will be provided by reservation.

CoupleTalk is a tested, structured, biblically based video series where couples learn better communication skills, build greater empathy, and effective resolution to the problems that all couples encounter. This is a couple experience, even though we will be viewing the videos as a group. There are breaks in the video where you will spend time with your spouse practicing the concepts being presented. No one will be asked to share within the group. We are asking that couples sign up for five weeks. If after completing the first five weeks you wish to continue, an additional five-week course will follow. This course is available to engaged as well as

married couples, no matter how long you have been married. If you have questions or are interested in signing up, call Melody Martini at 843-597-3999. There is no charge to participants, and workbooks for use during the videos will be provided.

Please pray about your attendance! Improving your marriage is a great way to start off the New Year.

~ Melody [email protected]

Prayer CornerPlease pray for St. Michael’s Church and our mission, which is to transform every heart and home, the Holy City, the Hurting Coast, and the Hungering World through Jesus Christ. Pray specifically for the Rt. Rev. Mark Lawrence and his family; for Lowcountry Pregnancy Center, Barnabas Ministries of Charleston, Living Hope, The Pink Bus Ministry with St. John’s Chapel, Sanders Clyde School -Lunch Buddies & Alpha Sprouts; Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy; Meals on Wheels; Star Gospel Mission, Rural Mission, and for the Rev. Hamilton Smith and his church plant in north Mt. Pleasant; for the Rev. Dan Rogers with Christ the King, Dorchester and for Pastor Claire

Sullivan and The Hope Center in Lynn MA, for Freddie, Onesphore, and Simon and the church in Burundi, Tabitha and her mission in China; Bishop Dutta and the church in India; Cornelius and Zira Jacobs and Caleb and Rebecca Hudson and their mission in the 10/40 Window with Anglican Frontier Mission.

Prayers for Deployed MilitaryChris Phelps, deployed to Afghanistan (brother of Danyelle Phelps)Alex Gora, 2nd Class Nuclear Submarine (grandson-in-law of Beverly Howell)William M. Richardson, George HW Bush Carrier (son of Shelly Richardson)2nd Lt Matthew Hendley, Son of David & Doreen Hendley

Parents-to-Be Prayer ListGod said, Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.” Jeremiah 1:5Vicki & Yan Vazquez (March 2016)Caity & David Booman (March 2016)Justin & Kristina Baker (May 2016)


Action

Advent is the season of expectation. We are waiting in wonderment and watching for the Christ Child – the greatest gift ever given!

“My soul, wait thou only upon God, for my expectation is from Him” (Psalm 62:5).

I spent yesterday in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the processing center for Samaritan’s Purse – Operation Christmas Child. It is one of nine processing centers in the United States. The Charlotte facility will process more than 2 million shoeboxes, destined for children around the world. Around 11 million are expected to leave the U.S. this season! The shoebox honors and celebrates the child who receives the shoebox and The Child who provided the shoebox. As of yesterday, Charlotte had processed 1,995,000 shoeboxes.

We can look out at the night sky and experience the greatness of our God. We can look into the tiny face of a newborn and see another miracle from our God. We can learn about another healing from cancer and know the goodness of our God. And through the stories from Operation Christmas

Child, we can come to the truth of the sovereignty of our God.

Some facts about Operation Christmas Child: Daily, and constant, prayer covers this project. Samaritan’s Purse believes, as do I, that the Holy Spirit directs and mightily oversees these precious boxes. Each box is checked for anything that might endanger the child or their families. Sometimes, items will be added to the shoebox; otherwise, the contents go out undisturbed. This reflects the strong belief that the Holy Spirit has provided, through the giver, what the receiver needs.

Pastors in the village churches count the number of children in their churches and let Samaritan’s Purse know how many shoeboxes they need. The quality control and accounting of these shoeboxes are incredible.

And now, past stories from Samaritan’s Purse:

On the day the shoeboxes arrived, the children gathered at the village church. Their expectations were high.

The children knew what was happening. The staff of the church noticed a young child

peering through the window. A child they had not expected. A child they had not counted and planned for. They dared not invite the child in, as they would not have a shoebox to give. Still, the child waited and watched. The shoeboxes were distributed, one by one, to each of the counted children. And then, one shoebox remained. The child waiting in wonderment, and watching, had not been forgotten by the Christ Child. The waiting, watching child had been counted by the One who counts!

At another time, in another village, the children gathered. The shoeboxes were distributed. There were two little girls left. There was only one shoebox. Excitedly, the little girls said, “It’s OK. We’ll share it.” They opened the box. There was two of everything! El Roi – the God who sees – the Child who knows – provided enough.

A shoebox was opened at the processing center for inspection. Among other things, there was one shoe.

The volunteers were baffled. But believing the Holy Spirit knew where the box was going, and knew the child who would receive it, they let it go through. Then, another box was opened. The other shoe was among the items. They let it go through.

These particular boxes were destined for a war-torn country. You know the rest – two children had lost a leg, due to injuries received during the war. Those two children received the right box – one with the left shoe, the other with the right shoe. Here in the land of the living – we cannot know what He knows. Blessed be our God – Father! Son! and Holy Spirit! The One who knows!

A little boy in the Ukraine waited. He shivered in his raggedy thin shirt. He opened his shoebox. A winter coat!

For every child who has ever received a shoebox from Samaritan’s Purse – Operation Christmas Child – there is story that counts! If you have never been involved in Operation Christmas Child, I urge you to plan now to be involved next year. Filling a shoebox – it’s a small thing – and we all know, it’s the small things that count!

Don’t let anything steal your blessing, from being a blessing!

You have received this message because The One for whom we wait loves you!

Blessings, love, grace, and healing to you, during this holy season of expectation – Advent.

Joyfully!Judi Brantley

Operation Christmas Child: a Reflection


Action

When I received an invitation to take a tour of the Lowcountry Pregnancy Center (LPL) in North Charleston, I knew this was a great opportunity for me to grow in my knowledge of what healthcare resources are available to women in our city. As a young woman myself, I am very much aware of the concerns, limitations, and fears that face many women when it comes to healthcare and, in this case, those issues that arise in the realm of family planning, pregnancy, abortion, adoption, and sexually transmitted infections (STI) testing. These concerns are universal and are not prejudiced to age, race, income, or marital status, so knowing what is available is key to making wise choices and helping others do the same.

Upon my arrival, I was immediately impressed with the space out of which LPC operates. The office was immaculate, and it was furnished in a way that created a sense of being in an upscale doctor’s office, as opposed to a sterile clinic. The staff were extremely personable, and their warm dispositions created a sense of ease throughout the office. I share all of this, because I quickly learned the office space decor was intentionally thought through with the hopes of providing an atmosphere where women felt welcomed and comfortable, as well as valued, despite the not-so-ideal journey they may be facing.

As we toured the facilities, we learned the reasons behind the Lowcountry Pregnancy Center,

and the word “love” permeated the conversation. It was apparent that the staff and volunteers at LPC do what they do because they love women and children and families. It is obvious that they do not look at their work as just a job, but instead as a calling and an opportunity to show compassion, share the love of Christ and the hope found in a relationship with Him, and offer tangible help to woman as they make difficult choices that will affect their own lives and the lives of their children.

One of the most encouraging things I learned about LPC is that the staff and volunteers walk with mothers through the full term of their pregnancy and even up to more than two years after the mother gives birth to her child. Along with

free pregnancy testing, nursing consultations, STI testing and treatment, ultrasounds, and a children’s boutique which offers the necessities and then some at no charge, LPC provides parenting classes to mothers and fathers. The staff at LPC strive to make sure no woman feels alone in her journey to becoming a mother and raising her children well.

In a time when the women’s right to choose seems to be what we hear most, I am so grateful to have learned of Lowcountry Pregnancy Center that gives women the right, and most importantly the ability, to choose life for herself and her child.

~ Brittany Gordon

Lowcountry Pregnancy Center: a Reflection

August 15th, 1947, was one of the great days in world history. One-fifth of the population of the world gained its independence on that day from Great Britain.

India was split into two countries, Pakistan and India. Most of the 90 million Muslims moved to the northwest portion the country, the newly created Pakistan. The 250 million Hindus, 6 million Sikhs along with Christians, Buddhists, and other smaller religious groups, remained in the new India.

Today, India is approximately 82% Hindu, 12% Islam, and 2.5% Christian, with the balance of the

population Sikh, Buddhist and smaller religious sects. While the country is still very poor, the economy is booming, and millions of people are moving from poverty to the middle class.

The Rt. Reverend Dr. Probal Kanto Dutta became the Bishop of the Diocese of Durgapur, which was on the verge of being closed down, in September, 2003. Bishop Dutta told me he felt lucky that God had chosen him to take over this Diocese and spread the good news of Jesus Christ to so many people.

The Diocese of Durgapur is a church body that spans

approximately 43,340 square kilometers. The Diocese is on fire with activity as they seek to meet the practical and religious needs of so many of the people

who live in this area. Some of the things they do include managing a college, several elementary and high schools, hospitals, an eye clinic, a nursing school, and

The 2015 Healing Mission to Durgapur, IndiaTestimonies from the Team

David Richardson and Arthur Ravenel


Action over 180 churches. Recently, the Diocese of Durgapur took over operational control of an additional 58 churches started by the Indian Missions Society. We attended the grand opening of two new churches that were funded by St. Michael’s Church.

They help people of all religions, have hundreds of full-time evangelists and an amazing staff, and are doing great works to meet the needs of so many people in this area and spread the good news of Jesus Christ. They value St. Michael’s Church as one of their biggest supporters.~ Arthur Ravenel, III

On a Sunday, a week or so before leaving for India, I was praying with our prayer walking team in the St. Michael’s graveyard. My prayers and thoughts turned to the India Mission trip ahead of me. My prayer was a plea for help. To quote the Rev. John Barr from our November 14 Day of Healing Prayer, I needed “to get me out of the way, so that I could get Jesus in the way.” For a brief moment, I found myself in a state of unconsciousness, until I heard the words very loud and clear in my mind, “Bloom in the Resurrection.” I had no clue where this came from, but I woke up to find myself at the Meeting Street side entrance to the graveyard, staring at the dark brown, tightly wrapped Camellia flower buds located deep in the center of a large Camellia bush. In the middle of these rather non-descript buds was a large, radiantly beautiful Camellia bloom, basking in the light; it was the only bloom on this entire bush. I found myself

repeating the words out loud and questioning their meaning: Bloom in the Resurrection, Bloom in the Resurrection.

What immediately came to mind was an answer, “If I can take these brown buds, hidden deep in and among the dark spaces of a Camellia bush, expose them to my light and produce this gloriously beautiful flower from it, just think what I am going to do for you in India.” At that moment, I felt a release – Such encouragement could only come from God and answered prayer. I could not wait to uncover the real meaning behind this message.

My report for India Mission 2015 is about a simple witness and message of God’s amazing grace to bring thousands of people out of darkness and into the light for the hope that is found through a saving knowledge and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

It was incredible to experience, from tribal village to tribal village, how much our team was welcomed and honored. There was no question that the love of Christ and hearts had been prepared by the loving hands of Jesus well before we stepped foot in India. Bishop Probal Dutta and his team of pastors and evangelists, along with the generous financial support from St. Michael’s, had moved thousands of people in India out of darkness and into the light and love of Jesus Christ, through education, clean water, the construction of churches and a Safe House, nurses’ training facilities, doctors for community health, the distribution of Bibles and blankets, medical care, the

new construction of churches, music training, and overall care for the poor, sick, and needy.

At each Festival of Hope, we heard stories of people traveling great distances by foot to hear from the Americans from St. Michael’s, Charleston, SC, who had traveled halfway around the world to share the healing light and hope found in Jesus. The word definitely got out, and people came in large numbers of both Christians and non-Christians. Everyone was well fed, both physically and spiritually. There was singing, dancing, and an atmosphere of joy. Praise and worship songs filled the large covered area, and the people raised their hands high into the air to shout, repeatedly, the one word we all understood at the end of the praise and worship music: Halleluiah, Halleluiah, Halleluiah!

Jean and Johnnie Corbett, our leaders, had clearly established the core message that would be taught, preached, and witnessed over the course of our ten-day ministry at the five Festivals of Hope in Sarenga, Baldahura, Koonor, Jargo, Koreng, and Jhalda: Jesus Christ stands outside the door of your heart, waiting and knocking, and only you can invite Him in. You could feel the presence and power of the Holy Spirit at each Festival. Many people were healed, and you could see the hope and light of Christ swell up through the tears, smiles, and hugs of gratitude from all of the people we anointed and laid hands on through healing prayer.

As the Festival of Hope got underway in the Tribal Village of Coonor, I experienced first-hand what I believe God meant by His message, Bloom in the Resurrection. Our team was on stage, under a large canopy filled with hundreds of children and adults praying and worshiping Jesus. I could feel the God’s presence through the prayers and the music, so I felt compelled to open my eyes to witness and better understand what I was feeling. My eyes went directly to a little boy in the front row of the congregation who could not have been more than 9 or 10 years old. He was weeping and praising God with his hands held high above his head. Other young children around him were also singing and praying, but not like this little boy. What an amazing sight. I couldn’t help but think back to my experience in the graveyard at St. Michael’s when I witnessed the miracle of God taking an obscure little “bud” to a gloriously beautiful “bloom” through the love and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was definitely the confirmation

David Richardson, Heidi and Arthur Ravenel


Actionof God’s message that I had been looking for.~ David Richardson

What a blessing it was to be part of the Healing Prayer Mission to India! Our team was wonderful, and it was especially meaningful to be on a mission with my husband, Arthur. It was a long trip over, flying to Newark, Delhi, and then Calcutta, where Trishikh Dasgupta, Bishop Dutta’s brilliant, young communications director, collected us for the three-hour drive to Durgapur. Trishikh organized all of our activities and accompanied us everywhere we went, attending to every detail and ensuring our comfort on many long journeys. He is also a wealth of knowledge and helped us to learn and understand a great deal about India.

Calcutta is the capital of the state of West Bengal, and Durgapur is three hours north of there. The diocese of Durgapur is very large and extends north almost to Nepal; it is bordered on the east by Bangladesh. We traveled throughout the diocese by train and van, proclaimed the Gospel, taught healing prayer, and prayed with thousands of people at Festivals of Hope, organized by the diocese at rural churches. We ministered to Bengali people and to members of the Santhal tribe, so everything had to be translated into those two languages. The Santhal are one of the largest tribes in India and are indigenous to northern India and Nepal. There are more than two million Santhals in West Bengal, many of whom are Christian but still celebrate many of their

tribal traditions in dance, music, greetings, and hunting. We were very blessed to be welcomed to their churches and to worship and pray with them.

When we arrived near the church in Sarenga that was built with GIC funds from St. Michael’s, we were greeted by parishioners singing, dancing, and drumming. The dancers formed a procession and led us towards the church, while others brought us flowers and showered us with marigold petals. They asked us to be seated, and then washed our feet as part of their traditional greeting. Afterwards, we dedicated their church, which was newly built by the diocese, and had lunch. In the afternoon and evening, the team did a series of preaching and teaching, and then we prayed with more than a thousand people.

The translators told us their prayer requests, and we anointed them with oil, laid hands upon them, and prayed for them. What a privilege it was to pray with these precious people! And thanks to the Bible fund at St. Michael’s, we were able to leave them with Bibles in their native Santali language.

We spent that night at the nursing school that Bishop Dutta had established to serve the medical clinic in Sarenga. Young women come to the nursing school from villages in the area and receive four years of training, with the caveat that they must return to their villages after graduation and provide medical care there. They have wonderful opportunities for clinical experience at the hospital and are well qualified upon completion

of their training. They also participate in community health outreach led by the missionary doctor husband and wife team who serve at the hospital.

Our team was awed and amazed by the number of ministries that Bishop Dutta and his team have implemented in the Diocese of Durgapur. They serve so many people, no matter what their faith, and they give wonderful Christian education, preach the Gospel, and show the light and love of Christ to all in an area of darkness and great need. We were very humbled by the opportunity to minister alongside these amazing Christians.~ Heidi Ravenel

“People want to go to big cities to minister. They don’t want to come to this area, but the people are hungry. The India people are spiritual. They will come and pray. Bring them to Jesus!” Bishop Dutta shared his heart’s desire as we drove to Sarenga. Upon arrival, we celebrated with Khayerpahan Wesley congregation, who only a year ago sought for a replacement of their deteriorated mud church. We joined them in praise and

prayers in their beautiful new church building.

At the KSN Nursing Training School, we were warmly welcomed by the Director Mrs. Sangita Gorai and a hundred students. Hospitality abounds in India! Dr. and Dr. Bose, Indian Missionaries serving in the 150-bed hospital at the School, invited us to tea. He said hospital patients only pay 30 cents for excellent care. Dr. Bose shared his heart’s desires to teach basic health protocol to the surrounding villages.

In April, Nepal was struck by an earthquake that killed thousands of people. Small mud houses in the northern most part of the Diocese of Durgapur crumbled. One night, we followed a trail by flashlight to a new bamboo and tin home, donated by St. Michael’s. The team gathered in the small space and prayed God’s blessings upon the home and the family. A tiny cross is imbedded in the concrete wall, a reminder of God’s grace.

Heidi Ravenel


Action In the village of Koonor, we prayed with more than a thousand people at the Festival of Hope! There were many testimonies given, thanking God for healing their bodies of disease, pain, and distress in various forms, such as stomach and digestive issues, acid reflux, back and neck pain, and body pain.

During a Festival, I looked to my left and my right, checking on the team members. Everyone was praying for masses of people. Then, I looked in front of me and was overwhelmed by the view – a sea of pain.

We prayed with people with tuberculosis, leoprosy, a 15-year old with a brain tumor, a 9-year old with a stomach tumor, babies with fever in their mothers’ arms, barren women, and students who asked for prayers for their studies. (Note: If students do not pass their government exams, they cannot move up to the next level of study.)

A teaching moment! After a morning teaching, each team member was paired with a pastor or translator and led to the shade of a tree where those in attendance could go to a prayer team and state their requests. A little boy about 7 years of age and two lay evangelists became part of my team. When a large crowd surrounded us, each one taking turns sitting in a plastic prayer chair, I sensed the Lord was directing me to instruct everyone in the laying on of hands. I invited everyone to touch the person receiving prayer. “My little boy” touched each person on the arm with the face of an angel as he silently

prayed. I wish I had a photo to share.

We met with about 34 Indian Lay Evangelists from the Indian Missionary Society who wanted our prayers of blessings! They serve under the authority of the Diocese of Durgapur.

I left India with the knowledge that many foreign and Indian missionaries have gone before us and paved the way with their lives and with prayer. The Diocese of Durgapur is on fire with the passion to share Jesus Christ with everyone who will listen. Their leader, the Rev. Dr. Probal Kanto Dutta, serves under the headship of our Lord.

Please pray for Pastor Amiya Das, Bishop Dutta’s Assistant, who will have heart surgery in January.

Thank you, Intercessors and Financial Donors, for supporting the Third Healing Prayer Mission to India!~ Jean Corbett

We left Charleston on November 30, for the Diocese of Durgapur, West Bengal, India, and arrived December 2. We rested that evening and had breakfast the next morning at 5:30. The team traveled by van to Sarenga, where we dedicated a renovated church and parsonage, funded by St. Michael’s, Charleston. Next, we drove to Khayerpuhari Wesley Church for the inauguration of a new church, again funded by St. Michael’s, Charleston. In the afternoon, we held a Festival of Hope in a large field. The tent accommodated a portion of the more than one thousand people in attendance. We taught

on “Who is Jesus?” The Team prayed for everyone. Many were healed of various diseases and ailments.

Friday, we returned to the Diocesan compound and enjoyed a beautiful Christmas concert presented by the children of Diocesan Child Development Center in Durgapur.

Saturday, we left at 6:00 a.m., for the train to Malda (English Bazaar) which is about 300 miles north of Durgapur. We spent two nights in Malda Government Guest House.

Sunday morning, we dedicated Shoglepara Church. Musicians, drummers, and dancers led the procession through the street lined with hundreds of children and adults showering us with flower petals. Village girls washed and anointed our feet – a humbling event. After the dedication, we drove to the St. Michael’s Safe House in Baldahara, for an afternoon Festival of Hope under a tent for teaching and prayers. We distributed Bibles to adults and children. Warm blankets were presented to children.

Monday morning, we drove to Koonor and held a Festival of Hope for more than one thousand people. Everyone received laying on of hands and prayers

for healing. The following day began with testimonies from many who had received a healing touch from the Lord. A pastor who was blind and led to the Festival the previous day testified that he could now see and did not need to be led. After the customary lunch of rice and dahl, we had another service for hundreds of people who were healed by the Lord.

Wednesday morning, we returned to Durgapur by train.

Thursday at 6:00 a.m., we headed out to Purulia for a Festival of Hope. People from three Villages filled the tent to overflowing. We witnessed God touching and healing physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs of the people.

Friday we drove to Kolkata (Calcutta) for our flight to Delhi, then to Newark, and back to Charleston.

On this trip, we dedicated two new churches and one renovated church funded by St. Michael’s Church. We saw the construction progress of the new Music Room for the Children; the Good Shepherd Eye Hospital Administration Room; and the new hostel for 25 students at the Nurses Training Center in Sarenga. Through GIC and special generous

Johnnie and Jean Corbett with Bp. Probal Dutta


Action contributions, St. Michael’s has made a significant impact on West Bengal.

St. Michael’s has funded:• Six new church plants• A Safe House for young girls

(the youngest is 8 years of age) rescued from sex trade

• A hostel for 25 girls at Nurse Training College. The girls receive four years of training and return to their village where they may be the only medical resource for the community.

• Good Shepherd Eye Hospital and Administrative Office (The Government recognizes the hospital and requires an Administrative Office to be located on the premises.)

• Several hostels for boys and girls who came from slums. This gives them a safe place to study, learn, have recreation, and for some, a place to live.

• Distribution of 1000’s of Bibles in tribal languages for children and adults.

Thank you, St. Michael’s, from the Diocese of Durgapur!~ Johnnie Corbett

India – an assault to the senses! There is so much to see, so many colors, so much activity, so much noise! Then there is the driving – at first it appears to be sheer chaos on the roads, but after a while you begin to understand the unwritten rules of the roads. Everything is on the roads – trucks, vans, cars, scooters, and bikes. In the country, add ox carts, pedi cabs, dogs, goats, pigs, cows, chickens, and children. Thank you to our intercessors who prayed for us each day. Prayers worked! The size of the

country is overwhelming, the number of people (1.2 billion) is overwhelming, and the need is overwhelming. But our God loves these people, and so do we.

I am completely awed by the number of ministries the Diocese of Durgapur is involved in. It is as if Bishop Dutta sees a need and immediately finds a way to meet it. At the Diocesan compound, my small guest room was located at the far end of the recovery room of the Good Shepherd Eye Hospital. To get to my room, I walked past classrooms filled with children. Every day, numerous children would greet me as I walked to and fro. I was charmed. The children practiced their music in the courtyard, because they don’t have a practice space yet. These are children from the area slums, and at this school, they are being given a good education and a chance at making a good life for themselves and their families. Our team had an opportunity one day to pray for all the patients awaiting their eye surgeries. We toured the eye hospital facilities and laid hands and prayed with each patient. A renowned eye surgeon donates his talent to help the least. In the past year, I have had three eye surgeries, so I was humbled to be able to pray with these precious people.

At Sarenga, we stayed overnight at the Diocesan Nursing School. Right now, one hundred girls from the villages are enrolled in the four-year nursing program. The school is actually a hundred years old but had closed; the bishop reopened it when he came to Durgapur. The girls are

given a good education and then return to their villages to provide medical services where none are currently available. Therefore, the nursing program serves not only the students but also their communities. St. Michael’s GIC funds are building additional dormitory space so that the school can take on an additional twenty-five girls. My guest room was in the current girls’ dorm – an old, retrofitted building with iron gates at the front door that are locked with a padlock at night. My morning was filled with the sound of girls as they got ready for school, such a sweet sound.

We conducted our first Festival of Hope in Sarenga for over 1,000 people. The people of West Bengal love their festivals.

There was praise and worship and singing and dancing. We did teaching and preaching, followed by our team laying hands on and praying with those 1,000-plus precious people. They all wanted prayer. At first, the

large number of people who wanted prayer overwhelmed me, but then I stopped looking at the crowd and focused only on the one person in front of me. I thank our Lord for showing up, because I couldn’t have prayed for almost 200 people all on my own. Sarenga was the first of several Festivals of Hope we conducted in different locations.

The morning our team left India, I stepped into St. Michael’s Cathedral to hear the children practicing their Christmas music program. The music was beautiful, and I was in awe knowing these children come from the area slums. This music program is just one of many gifts the Diocese provides for the children. I am grateful to have been able to see and experience what the Bishop is doing to alleviate the suffering of those in his diocese while spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.~ Lisa Holland

Lisa Holland


Action

Photos from the St. Michael’s Healing Mission to India


Action


Calendar Serving

There’s an App for That!A Free Mobile App to Stay Connected to St. Michael’s Church on the GoAll you need to do is sign up online by going to www.stmichaelschurch.net and clicking on the blue “Log in” button on the homepage.Click “Need a log in? Click Here” and it will ask you for your e-mail address, first name, last name, and suffix (if you are a Jr., III, IV, V). An e-mail will be sent to you with a temporary password and a link to change it to one you will remember. You then use your e-mail address and your newly created password to sign into the app. Site # 151770 if it needs it. Click remember me so you don’t have to always sign in to the app.Go to the App Store on your Smart Phone or tablet & search for “ACS Church Life” Install & Open. Username: your email ad-dress that you used to sign up for Access ACS. Password: your personal password you created when you set up your Access ACS account

The Benefits of the App

Online Giving

Calendar

People Directory

Go to the App Store on your Smart Phone

Search for “ACS Church Life” Install & Open

Username: your email address that you used to sign up for Access ACSPassword: your personal password you created when you set up your Access ACS account online through the web browser

A Free App to HELP YOU let us know when you are available to serve at St. Michael’s ChurchWe use a software program called Ministry Scheduler Pro to help us manage the 400+ volunteers who gladly serve at St. Michael’s Church. An e-mail goes out every week with a reminder of when you are scheduled to serve. We encourage you to follow the link into the Web Terminal to set up your account (so you can download the app) and your preferences. If you have a smart phone or tablet, you can download Ministry Scheduler Pro from the App Store. The App is another version of the Web Terminal which allows you, as a volunteer, to access your schedule and serving resource (ie. readings, prayers, manuals) from anywhere. You can:• View and update your schedule• Sign up for unfilled positions• Find substitutes online, and optionally trade assignments• Update your future availability online• Customize when and how you receive your reminder• Add your serving calendar to your gmail, outlook, or iCal Calendar

Please contact Trish McGuinn with any questions regarding the schedule. ([email protected]) She has graciously volunteered to manage this program and help assign volunteers.

Susan Waring ([email protected]) and Vicki Vazquez ([email protected]) are also available to help with providing resources (readings, prayers) and technical support. 843.723.0603.

If you have internet access, but do not have an e-mail set up, Vicki will help you set up a free e-mail account and show you how to access it. If you have a tablet or cell phone and it happens to be a smart phone, we will help you download the app and connect your e-mail to your phone.

Need Help? Schedule a time for training with Vicki Vazquez, Director of Communications by calling 843.724.7571.

Go to the App Store on your Smart Phone or tablet

Search for “Ministry Scheduler Pro”

Install & OpenOrganization ID:

saintmichaelschurch1751Username: the first letter of your

first name and your last name spelled out

Password: your personal password you created when you set up your

MSP account

Phone: (843) 723-0603Fax: (843) 724-7578E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.stmichaelschurch.net

71 Broad StreetCharleston, SC 29401(Meeting Street at Broad)Change Service Requested

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDCharleston, SCPermit No. 688

VESTRYFrank Grimball, Sr. WardenMikell Scarborough, Jr. WardenHeidi Ravenel, SecretaryDavid ReeseNormandie UpdykeJo CoxHal FramptonFred WillisGrant InscoeRhett SmithCurry SmoakAllston Moore III, Treasurer

DIOCESANThe Rt. Rev. Mark J. Lawrence, Bishop

CLERGYThe Rev. Alfred T. K. Zadig, Jr., Rector The Rev. Mark W. Avera, Assistant for Stewardship & TransformationThe Rev. David P. Booman, Assistant for Pastoral Care & Healing Prayer MinistryThe Rev. Rich Giersch, Director of Student MinistriesThe Rt. Rev. Alex D. Dickson, Bishop-in-Residence for Anglican EssentialsThe Rev. Dr. Peter C. Moore, Scholar-in-Residence

VOLUNTEER CLERGYThe Rev. Canon Douglas Peterson, Volunteer PriestThe Rev. Jed Hermes, Deacon for Pastoral Care

STAFFMatthew Wilkinson, Organist & ChoirmasterMelanie Wilkinson, Administrative Assistant for Music, Children’s Choir Director, Cantor in ResidenceJo Vroon, Organist in ResidenceCyndee Cave, Nursery/Preschool/Children and Family Ministries DirectorNena Jackson, Director of Connections & AlphaScott Myers, Director of Audio/VisualMelody B. Martini, Psy. D, Licensed Clinical Psychologist/VolunteerJeanine Branham, Care CoordinatorVicki Vázquez, Director of CommunicationsMeredith Buyck, Rector’s Assistant for the Ministry of Finance & Human ResourcesSusan Waring, Executive Assistant to the RectorBrittany Gordon, Information SpecialistRobert W. McRae, Property ManagerArthur Bailey, SextonAngela Stanley, Housekeeper

T r a n s f o r m i n g H e a r t s T h r o u g h J e s u s C h r i s t

Men’s Peninsula Lunches Resume

New Women’s Bible Study Opportunitites

Baby Shower for the Lowcountry Pregnancy Center

High School Mission to Brazil

Coupletalk Course Begins

Operation Christmas Child Report

India Mission Testimonies

february 2016 the messenger

Documents