he redeemer spirit march-april 2013...the redeemer spirit /march-april 2013 personal notes we offer...

THE REDEEMER SPIRIT March-April 2013

The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer ▪ 6201 Dunrobbin Drive ▪ Bethesda, Maryland 20816

The celebration of the death and resurrection of Christ is the oldest annual observance of the church; it is the center of the Christian year. From earliest days after the Resurrection, Christians in Jerusalem met at sites in and around the city during Holy Week for worship commemorating the events leading up to Christ’s Passion, death and resurrection. This continued even after the Roman army destroyed the city in 70 CE, particularly on Mount Zion, which had not been as thoroughly destroyed as other parts of Jerusalem, and where the upper room was remembered to be. Christians also worshiped during this week on the Mount of Olives and in nearby Bethany (see Mk. 13:3-9; Mt. 26:6-13). The first written record we have of Christian pilgrims traveling from Europe to take part in this Great Week of worship, prayer, vigil and celebration is from a 4th century nun, Egeria, who described the rites of the Church during Holy Week and the festivals of Easter. Walking the pilgrimage of Holy Week year by year, we are shaped and strengthened to live lives of greater hope and joy, even in the midst of the world’s darkness. Each of these liturgies — particularly that of Maundy Thursday through the Great Vigil of Easter — carries a piece of the Christian story that is not as clearly or strongly present on any other day or in any other service of the Church Year. I invite you to come and see, to enter with awe and devotion into the Passion and Resurrection of the Lord.

The Reverend Susan Thon

NOTES FROM THE RECTOR

PALM SUNDAY — March 24 Blessing of Palms, Procession & Holy Eucharist, 8:00 a.m. Blessing of Palms, Procession & Choral Eucharist, 10:30 a.m. MONDAY IN HOLY WEEK — March 25 Taizé Service & Healing Rite, 7:30 p.m. TUESDAY IN HOLY WEEK — March 26 The Office of Compline (sung), 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY IN HOLY WEEK — March 27 Morning Prayer & Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist, 12:00 noon The Office of Tenebrae (sung), 7:30 p.m. MAUNDY THURSDAY — March 28 Simple Supper, 6:00 p.m. Choral Eucharist, 7:30 p.m. GOOD FRIDAY — March 29 Stations of the Cross, 12:00 noon The Solemn Liturgy of Good Friday, 7:30 p.m. EASTER EVEN — March 30 The Great Vigil of Easter, 8:30 p.m. EASTER DAY — March 31 Holy Eucharist, 8:00 a.m. Festal Eucharist of the Resurrection, 10:30 a.m. Hot Cross Buns & Easter Egg Hunt, 12:00 noon

HOLY WEEK & EASTER AT REDEEMER

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The Redeemer Spirit /March-April 2013

MARCH CALENDAR

Saturday, March 9 Daylight Savings Time begins. Set your clocks forward one

hour before going to bed tonight.

Sunday, March 10 Have your picture taken, 12:15 p.m. Great Vigil of Easter Meeting, 12:30 p.m.

Monday, March 11 Lenten Taizé Service & Healing Rite, 7:30 p.m., p. 7

Tuesday, March 12 Vestry Meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 17 Intergenerational Faith Formation Class, 12:30 p.m.

Monday, March 18 Lenten Taizé Service & Healing Rite, 7:30 p.m., p. 7

Sunday, March 24 The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday Blessing of Palms, Procession & Holy Eucharist, 8:00 a.m. Blessing of Palms, Procession & Choral Eucharist, 10:30 a.m.

Monday, March 25 Monday in Holy Week Taizé Service & Healing Rite, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 26 Tuesday in Holy Week The Office of Compline (sung), 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 27 Wednesday in Holy Week The Office of Tenebrae (sung), 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 28 Maundy Thursday Simple Supper, 6:30 p.m. Choral Eucharist, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 29 Good Friday Stations of the Cross, 12:00 noon The Solemn Liturgy with Holy Communion from the

Reserved Sacrament, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 30 Easter Even The Great Vigil of Easter, 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 31 The Sunday of the Resurrection: Easter Day Holy Eucharist, 8:00 a.m. Festal Eucharist, 10:30 a.m. Hot Cross Buns & Easter Egg Hunt, 12:00 noon

APRIL CALENDAR

Monday, April 1 — Friday, April 5 Easter Week Parish Office closed Cancelled: Taizé Service & Healing Rite, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, April 3 Cancelled: Holy Eucharist, 12 noon

Sunday, April 7 Intergenerational Faith Formation Class, 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 14 Organist Colin MacKnight in Concert, 5:00 p.m., p. 7

Tuesday, April 16 Vestry Meeting, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 28 Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser for Youth Pilgrimage, 5:00-

7:0-0 p.m., p. 9

HAVE YOUR PICTURE TAKEN ...

Sunday, March 10, 12:15 p.m. If you are new to Redeemer or were unable to have your picture taken for the last photo directory, now is your chance! Following the 10:30 Eucharist on Sunday, March 10, parishioner John Vorhes will take your picture. The photos will be posted on the Membership board in the Parish Hall. We hope you will choose to have your picture taken as this helps build community by enabling fellow parishioners to know your name. We are happy, also, to make you a name tag. Just email Angela Beckman: [email protected]

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PERSONAL NOTES

We offer our condolences to Pat Stevens on the death of her sister Virginia Riggall; John Nelson on the death of his father Harold Nelson, and Katie Glover on the death of her mother, Joyce Glover. May their souls, and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Donations for Easter flowers may be made in memory of, in honor of, or in thanksgiving for. If you would like your dedication printed in the Easter orders of service, we will need to have the

wording by Sunday, March 24. Donation envelopes are available in the pews, Narthex and Parish Hall. Please write your dedication on the envelope or email it to the Parish Office: [email protected]. Checks should be made out to The Church of the Redeemer; please put “Easter flowers” on the memo line.

The Altar Guild

Congratulations to Cathy Arrington, Janice Huey, Melinda Nelson, Mary Packard-Winkler and David Riggs on their election to the Vestry; and to Graeme Browning and Clark Downs on being elected as Lay Delegates, and Katie Glover and Steve France as Alternates to the 2014 Diocesan Con-vention. The 2013 Vestry and Officers are:

Cathy Arrington, Senior Warden Peter Carlson, Junior Warden Steve Gibson Janice Huey Melinda Nelson Mary Packard-Winkler David Riggs Callie Raulfs Wang Cynthia Winder Mary K Young, Treasurer Catherine Sands, Recording Secretary pro tem

VESTRY 2013

EASTER FLOWERS

The new Vestry gathered for the first meeting of the Vestry retreat at the home of Susan Thon and Peter Magrath on Friday evening, February 15, for dinner and conversation. Just a little get together to get to know each other. We were joined by Joey Rick, the diocesan Canon for Congregational Vitality. Happy birthday was sung (to me) and we shared cake. Saturday morning we gathered again at the church for coffee and then got down to the business of the day. We began our meeting with worship. We were led through a practice of learning to become present in our own space and when sharing space with others. It is an important task of each Vestry member to listen to the joys and concerns that are brought to us, and we listen more closely when we are fully present. Joey then led us through an exploration of Redeemer past, present and future. We learned about various forms and ways that a Vestry can be appropriate stewards for the parish. Everyone contributed to the conversations and was heard with respect. We played games, laughed together and shared a meal. It was a joyous time and set an excellent tone of cooperation, lively discussion and respect. It is a pleasure to serve on the Vestry and I look forward to three wonderful years.

Cathy Arrington Senior Warden

FROM THE SENIOR WARDEN

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ADULT EDUCATION

From the Presiding Bishop’s message to parishes: “The Good Friday Offering provides essential funding to strengthen the visibility of the Christian presence throughout the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East. That funding is critical to the on-going ministry of both

institutions, as well as others in the region. Bishop Dawani [Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem] said, ‘The Good Friday Offering is a tangible witness of our partnership with our brothers and sisters in the Episcopal Church. As our Lord’s sacrifice on the cross inspires us to live a life of selflessness, the Good Friday Offering is an example of Easter morning where new life is found. We are grateful for the support of this offering that assists us in maintaining the Christian presence in the Land of the Holy One through diocesan ministries promoting peace and reconciliation, health care, education, and compassion for all God’s children.’” The offering assists, among others: St. Peter’s Elderly Home in BirZeit, providing

housing for elderly Christians. St. Andrew’s Day Care Center in Ramallah, a new

clinic for diabetic and cardio treatment. St. Andrew’s Housing Project for Young Christian

Couples Needy families on the West Bank Ras Morbat Clinic in Aden, Yemen, providing

unlimited access to basic health servicers in a low-income area.

Scholarships for religious education for Christian children.

Please give generously on Good Friday to support our brothers and sisters — “the living stones” of the Holy Land. Checks should be made out to Redeemer with “Good Friday Offering” on the memo line. Cash donations are welcome also.

Lenten Series: The Liturgies of Holy Week and Easter Sundays, March 10 and 17, 9:15 a.m. The Reverend Robin Razzino will continue the series on the liturgies we participate in during Holy Week and Easter Sunday. The topic on March 10 will be the liturgies of Good Friday, and on March 17, the Easter Vigil on Easter Even. What are the theological, historical, musical, and dramatic pieces that are incorporated in these liturgies? What impact does it have on our prayer lives, our experiences of the Passion, and our joy on Easter Day? There will be no Adult Forum on Palm Sunday, March 24, and Easter Sunday, March 31. The Forum will resume on Sunday, April 7. The Cyrus Cylinder Adult Forum, Sunday, April 7, 9:15 a.m. Parishioner Mike Rychlik will present an overview of the Cyrus Cylinder — its history, ancient and modern, and its relevance today as an icon of interfaith peace and tolerance. The Cyrus Cylinder will on exhibit at The Smithsonian, March 9—April 28, as part of its first tour of the U.S. The Cylinder is one of the most famous objects to have survived from the ancient world. It was inscribed in Babylonian cuneiform, the earliest form of writing, on the orders of the Persian King Cyrus the Great (559-530 BC) after he captured Babylon in 539 BC. It is often referred to as the first bill of human rights as it appears to encourage freedom of worship throughout the Persian Empire and to allow deported people to return to their homelands. It was found in Babylon in modern Iraq in 1879 during a British Museum excavation and has been on display ever since. It is valued by people all around the world as a symbol of tolerance and respect for different peoples and different faiths. A copy is on display in the United Nations building in New York. The Cylinder will travel with an exhibition of 16 objects under the title The Cyrus Cylinder and Ancient Persia. Intergenerational Class: All in for Faith The Intergenerational Faith Formation Class will continue on March 17, April 7, and May 5. For more information, contact: The Reverend Susan Thon or The Reverend Robin Razzino.

Bible Study The Sunday morning 9:15 a.m. Bible Study will continue to study Women in the Bible through March. For more information contact Steve Gibson: [email protected] or 301-229-1168.

GOOD FRIDAY OFFERING

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Each Sunday, parishioners serve in a variety of ministries to assist with the services — before, during and after. At this time, we would welcome, in particular, new Ushers, Greeters and Counters. A brief description of each of these ministries is below. Each person is scheduled once about every 4-6 weeks. Ushers: Ushers are needed for both the 8:00 a.m. and the 10:30 a.m. Eucharist. One usher is needed at 8:00 a.m. and two at 10:30. Ushers arrive about 15 minutes before the service to hand out the Sunday leaflet, welcome worshipers and assist anyone needing help (wheelchair, elevator, etc.). During the 10:30 a.m. Eucharist, ushers remain in the Narthex to seat late arrivals, help with the children going to and from Church School, take the elements to the altar, collect the offering and facilitate everyone going up for communion. At the conclusion of the service, ushers help to tidy up (takes just a few minutes). Jefferson Arrington, head usher, is present most Sundays or one of the other lead ushers, Gary Hacker and Mary K Young. Greeters: Following the 10:30 Eucharist, two people volunteer each week to greet parishioners as they leave the service. It is particularly welcoming for a greeter to accompany visitors or newcomers who would like to come downstairs to Coffee Hour, help them with coffee and snacks, and introduce them to members of the parish. Counters: Following the 10:30 Eucharist, the offering from both Sunday services is counted and recorded by two people. This is done in the Parish Office and takes about 20 minutes. Counters count the cash and checks, record the amounts, and fill out the deposit slip — that’s it. The counters can choose whether to count right after the service or enjoy Coffee Hour and then count. Each of these ministries is rewarding and an opportunity to participate in a simple but very necessary way. We hope you will consider these opportunities. If you think you might be interested, would like to try one or more of these, or would like more information, please contact the Parish Office: office.redeemer.verizon.net or 301-229-3770.

ASSISTING ON SUNDAYS TREASURER’S REPORT

Actual Jan-Feb

Budget Jan-Feb

Vari-ance

Total 2013

Budget

Pledges* $149,829 $96,516 $53,313 $579,097

Total Ordi-nary Income

$199,435 $119,799 $79,636 $718,797

Expenses $130,195 $119,799 ($10,396) $718,797

Net Ordinary Income

$69,240 $0 $69,240 $0

Year to Date as of February 28, 2013

*Pledges include $69,495 pre-paid in 2012.

Outreach Budget: Distribution of Funds The $32,500 in the 2013 budget for Outreach will be distributed as follows throughout the year: Local Organizations Church of the Epiphany/Street Church $2,400 St. Stephen & the Incarnation/Misa Alegria $3,500 Samaritan Ministry $3,300 9/11 Unity Walk $1,500 Manna Food Center $1,000 Community Family Life Services $2,000 THC Apartment Furnishing $2,000 Summer Music Camp $2,000 International Hope for Burundi $6,000 Trinidad Conservation Project-Honduras $3,000 Torture Abolition & Survivors Support Coalition International (TASSC) $4,000 Other Virginia Theological Seminary $750 General Theological Seminary $750 Uncommitted $2,500

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NEWCOMERS’ CORNER

Our thanks to parishioner and photographer John Vorhes for taking photos of those who are new (relatively) to the parish. He will be here again on Sunday, March 10, if you would like your picture taken.

Edie & Jim Michie Helen Ruckman

Gary Lorenz Joan Searby Helene Saunders

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MUSIC FOR HOLY WEEK & EASTER

The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday ▪ March 24, at 10:30 a.m. BLESSING OF PALMS, PROCESSION & CHORAL EUCHARIST

Psalm 31:9-16 — Plainsong, Mode II Ordinary: New Plainsong — Hurd Offertory: Solus ad victimam — Leighton (with choristers) Communion: Ecce quomodo moritur justus — Händl

Tuesday in Holy Week ▪ March 26, at 7:30 p.m. THE OFFICE OF COMPLINE

Plainsong

Wednesday in Holy Week ▪ March 27, at 7:30 p.m. THE OFFICE OF TENEBRAE

Plainsong

Maundy Thursday ▪ March 28, at 7:30 p.m. CHORAL EUCHARIST WITH WASHING OF FEET, PROCESSION OF THE BLESSED SACAMENT TO THE ALTAR OF REPOSE & STRIPPING OF THE ALTAR

Psalm 116:1, 10-17 — Plainsong, Mode II At Washing of Feet: A new commandment — Aston (with choristers) Offertory: Ubi caritas — Duruflé (with choristers) Communion: Ave verum Corpus — Elgar (with choristers) At the Stripping of the Altar: Psalm 22 — Plainsong, Mode IV

Good Friday ▪ March 29, at 7:30 p.m. THE SOLEMN LITURGY WITH HOLY COMMUNION FROM THE RESERVED SACRAMENT

Psalm 22 — Plainsong, Mode IV At Veneration of the Cross: Popule meus — Victoria Communion: Ave verum Corpus — Byrd

Easter Even ▪ March 30, at 8:30 p.m. THE GREAT VIGIL OF EASTER

Various Psalms — Plainsong Procession to the Font: Sicut cervus — Palestrina Ordinary — Mathias At Sprinkling: Vidi aquam — Plainsong, Mode VIII Psalm 114 — Chant: Garrett Offertory: Worthy is the Lamb from Messiah — Handel Communion: Most glorious Lord of life — Harris

Easter Day ▪ March 31, at 10:30 a.m. FESTAL EUCHARIST

Introit: This joyful Eastertide — Wood (with choristers) Ordinary — Mathias Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 — Chant: Thalben-Ball (with choristers) At Sprinkling: Vidi aquam — Plainsong, Mode VIII Offertory: Worthy is the Lamb from Messiah — Handel Communion: Most glorious Lord of life — Harris (with choristers)

Taizé is an informal, contemplative liturgy with scripture, icons, incense, silence, and chant accompanied by piano, guitar, and other instruments. The Healing Rite — prayers for healing of body, mind, or spirit for yourself or someone you love — is offered at the conclusion of the service. Taizé is offered every Monday during Lent (March 11 and 18) and on the Monday in Holy Week (March 25), at 7:30 p.m. NOTE: There will be no Taizé Service on Easter Monday, April 1. The Taizé Ensemble, comprised of volunteer singers and instrumentalists from the parish, leads the sung portions of the service. New singers and instrumentalists are welcome! For more information, please contact Tom Smith: 301-229-3770 or [email protected].

TAIZÉ SERVICE & HEALING RITE

Sunday, April 14, at 5:00 p.m. ORGANIST COLIN MACKNIGHT IN CONCERT A native of Bethesda, Maryland, 20-year-old Colin MacKnight is a second year student at New York City’s legendary Julliard School and a rising star among young organists. His varied program will include works by Johann Sebastian Bach, César Franck, and Max Reger. Free-will offering. Reception to follow. Sunday, May 5, at 5:00 p.m. MOZART IN MAY: “Music by the Master” Join us for a musical celebration of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, including choral, vocal, and instrumental works — both sacred and secular — and featuring acclaimed vocalists Hilary Park, soprano, and Andrew Pardini, baritone, as well as members of the Inscape Chamber Orchestra. Free-will offering. Reception to follow.

UPCOMING MUSICAL EVENTS

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CHILDREN & YOUTH HOSPITALITY MINISTRY

Sunday Coffee Hour I will start with a quote from our Rector in an email apropos of something else: “It is good, from time to time, to take a step back to consider what we do and why we do it – in the Church as well as in other areas of life.” So I also encourage you to take a step back and consider why we have a Coffee Hour. It is certainly a pleasant event, made more pleasant by delicious food. But there is more to it. Sharing a pleasant conversation over a cup of coffee and a cookie links us together in community. It provides a way to include newcomers into that community, and shores us up for the work of the church. To quote the Rector again, “Our life in the Church is meant to form and strengthen all of us for showing forth the extravagant generosity and love of a self-giving God.” Sometimes a doughnut is more than a doughnut. We have had a generous response to the call for both regular Coffee Hour volunteers and contributions for the first Sunday of the month Pot-luck Coffee Hour. Thanks to all who have signed up or contributed. Please know how grateful we all are. Please keep it up. I would like to make a few suggestions to those who enjoy the treats every Sunday but find the idea of doing the whole thing too daunting: Something like a single container of Trader Joe’s

cookies, or a box or two of Triscuits, or jar of Nutella, donated anytime is a welcome addition to our cupboard for “slim pickin’s” Sundays.

A check with “Coffee Hour” on the memo line is always good. There are some of us willing to do the work but not spend the money quite so often. Any amount helps, you don’t have to finance the whole event.

Check the sign-up sheet. May 19 and July 14 are labeled “Doughnut Sunday.” This as a special invitation to the men of the parish, who have not yet done Coffee Hour, to step up. Sign up and bring a single box of any kind of doughnuts. You don’t need to even bother putting them on a plate. Open the box, put it on the table. That’s it. One small step in building the kingdom.

For those who need a little sustenance before 10:30 church, there will be a plate of treats on the table with the coffee urns.

Karen Stewart

Hospitality Chair

YOUTH PROGRAMMING

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser! Please mark your calendars: On Sunday, April 28, 5-7 p.m., the youth will hold a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser in support of their July pilgrimage to Maine. Many thanks to Jefferson and Cathy Arrington who have volunteered to host the

fundraiser to be held in the Parish Hall. Youth going on the trip as well as some other helpers will prepare and serve the meal. The experience for those who come will be much like the experience of the Celebrate Redeemer Dinner – the idea is to provide a dinner in which the whole community is invited and to which all will come for an evening of fun and fellowship. We are hoping to raise enough money to help cover the cost of our van rental (about $1200). Other Youth Events Other youth events for the Spring include an Easter-season hike in the Catoctin mountains and preparation of dinner for the homeless as part of the Bethesda Cares Dinner Program on Sunday, May 26. CHURCH SCHOOL Godly Play The younger Godly Play class will be taught by Joelle Morris and Ayesha Court during March. This class will focus on the stories of important episodes in Jesus' earthly life, from birth to resurrection. The older Godly Play class will be taught by Karen Stewart and will focus on preparing for Easter. Middle and High School March 10 and 17: Middle School: Steve Gibson and Dominique Rychlik

will begin a series on the Bible. High School: Jefferson Arrington will lead the high

school class discussions this month. March 24: No Church School (Palm Sunday).

March 31: No Church School (Easter Sunday).

The Rev’d Robin Razzino

Associate Rector

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THANK YOU FROM SARABETH

The Rev’d Sarabeth Goodwin was Redeemer’s seminarian 2003-2005, and now serves as Latino Missioner at St. Stephen & the Incarnation. Misa Alegria, the Latino music program at St. Stephen’s, is a Redeemer outreach partner. We prayed for Sarabeth when she was hospitalized in January and have received the following handwritten note from her:

Dear Friends and Family of Redeemer, It is with great joy that I share with you that at 6 weeks past my surgery, I feel great! My doctors have given me a clean bill of health and are pleased with my progress. Thank you all so very much for your many prayers, for your notes and cards with words of support and caring. I was deeply moved by so many expressions of love and concern. As I learned at Redeemer, “God is good all the time;” I am still basking in the light of that huge bit of wisdom. I continue to thank God for the blessing that Redeemer has been and continues to be in my life. For all that has been and all that is yet to be I sing out, “Thanks be to God.”

Peace and blessing, Sarabeth

Capital Area Interfaith Friends (CAIF) is an interfaith youth group, including youth from Redeemer. For Interfaith Harmony Week, the CAIF group’s first project was to serve a meal at the Calvary Women’s Shelter. The youth purchased cupcakes to decorate for dessert and made beautiful handmade Valentine Day cards with the women for their loved ones or for themselves. We all ate with the residents and had many interesting conversations, as we always do.

The second project continued the youth’s interest in hunger issues. CAIF co-sponsored a Hunger Banquet. This is an intergenerational, interactive and fun community event at which participants experience what hunger looks like in the world through a dramatization and meal. People are given roles on their tickets corresponding to the level and extent of food security or insecurity in the world and have an opportunity to tell

their story. Most of the CAIF families were part of the largest group of food insecure and we sat on the floor and ate a simple meal of tortillas, rice and water. A smaller

INTERFAITH ACTIVITIES group was served beans and rice, and a third very small group had a full, several course meal served to them at a banquet table. One of the CAIF youth was a presenter/leader of the event. In March, CAIF will participate in Good Deeds Day, an international Jewish day of service. All around the world hundreds of thousands volunteer to help others, putting into practice the simple idea that every single person can do something good, be it large or small, to improve the lives of others and change the world. CAIF will be participating in a project with a Wider Circle. Planning for the 2013 9/11 Unity Walk is well underway. We are grateful for Redeemer’s continued support of the Walk and CAIF through an outreach grant. If you are interested in helping plan the walk, please speak with us at church on Sundays or contact us at: [email protected] or 301-365-3845.

Dominique & Mike Rychlik

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Meeting Discussion: The Rev’d Robin Razzino led a fun discussion on Christian identity using questions from the Diocese’s School for Congregational Vitality. Parishioners were asked to decide on how they identify themselves — as a spiritual being, a Christian, an Episcopalian, Protestant, Catholic, or a Redeemer parishioner. Questions were handed out and time taken for each person to answer them for themselves, followed by each table discussing the answers. Treasurer’s Report & Budget: Gary Hacker summarized the year-end financial position, detailed in the Annual Report. He noted that 2012 expenses exceeded income by $4,700, but that there is a carry forward of approximately $29,000 going into 2013, which should help close the gap between pledges received and the pledge goal. Gary said he was confident that additional pledges would be received during the year. Mary K Young presented the 2013 Budget and noted that she, too, is confident about 2013. Ben Ivins stated his disagreement with the Vestry’s decision to include non-budgeted donations for outreach projects when calculating the percentage of the total budget that would go to outreach. Closing: Senior Warden Cathy Baker presented Susan with a bouquet of flowers in appreciation for her dedicated leadership, her willingness to do anything and to embrace new visions for the continued growth of the parish. After a closing prayer, the meeting was adjourned at 1:30pm. The Vestry gathered in Susan’s office for formal induction into service for the upcoming year and election of officers.

Catherine Sands Recording Secretary pro tem

ANNUAL MEETING REPORT

On Sunday, January 27, 91 parishioners gathered in the Parish Hall for the Annual Parish meeting and pot-luck lunch. The Meeting was called to order with an opening prayer by The Rev’d Susan Thon. The minutes of the 2012 Annual Meeting were approved. Retiring Vestry Members: Susan paid tribute to retiring Vestry members. She thanked Cathy Baker, Senior Warden, for her wise counsel and unfailing support during a period of growth and change at Redeemer. She expressed the parish’s gratitude to Peter Kendall, Junior Warden and Chair of Buildings & Grounds, for his wise leadership, and for guiding us through building the Labyrinth, several landscape projects and the installation of a new humidification system. Nathan Price was thanked for his role as “in house” theologian and environmentalist, and for his leadership of two stewardship campaigns. Frances Sharon was thanked for her quiet leadership of the Spiritual Life Committee and for organizing two all-parish retreats, two men’s retreats and several Quiet Days. Gary Hacker was thanked for his two years of service as Treasurer, for bringing Redeemer’s finances in line with good accounting practices, and for his oversight of all financial matters. Each of the five was presented with a gift in gratitude for their service. Nathan Price expressed his thanks to the congregation for pledging 95% of the 2013 pledge. He thanked Administrative Assistant Angela Beckman for being his “rock” during the Stewardship campaign. Elections: On behalf of the Nominating Committee, Nathan Price presented the slate of nominees: for Vestry the nominees were Cathy Arrington, Janice Huey and Mary Packard-Winkler (3-year terms) and Melinda Nelson and David Riggs (one-year terms). For delegate to the 2014 Diocesan Convention, the nominees were Clark Downs and Graeme Browning; with Katie Glover and Steve France nominated for first and second alternates respectively. The slate was unanimously approved. Rector’s Report: Susan encouraged everyone to read her written report. She extended special thanks to the non-staff clergy leaders: Joe Clark, celebrant, preacher and retreat leader; Amy Yount, preacher, church-school teacher and celebrant; David Schlafer, wise counselor, celebrant, preacher and leader. She thanked the staff for their faithful support: Associate Rector The Reverend Robin Razzino, Director of Music Tom Smith, Administrative Assistant Angela Beckman and Sexton Alice Despard.

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JANUARY VESTRY REPORT

Rector’s Report: The Rev’d Susan Thon reported that she and four other clergy will participate in a Workshop on Creative Liturgy at the Diocesan Convention in February. The Intergenerational Formation Class led by Susan and The Rev’d Robin Razzino has met twice, addressing Spiritual Journeys and Christian Identity. There are 11 participants, both adults and young people, whose interests include learning more about the Christian faith, church history and preparing for confirmation or reception into the Episcopal Church. Susan encouraged the Vestry to read Bishop Budde’s letter on Guidelines for Same-Sex Marriages. Times will be set for discussion within the Vestry and with the congregation. Everyone should have an opportunity to understand the theological underpinning for sacramental blessing of same-sex unions and to express their views and concerns. Buildings & Grounds Report: Peter Kendall presented a 2013 To-do List, that included planting a new memorial

The Rev’d Susan Thon began the meeting with a five-minute meditation, which members said they experienced as prayer, calming, a preparation to be open, and restful alertness. Susan asked, “What if our primary intention were to be present to God and to each other?” Vestry Retreat: The Vestry appreciated the presence of Joey Rick, diocesan Canon for Congregational Vitality, as facilitator and the creation of a safe environment for free and open discussion. The numbers regarding Redeemer’s growth helped build confidence, as did the guidelines and pitfalls that Joey presented. Welcoming new members and finding ways for them to feel included and become involved is of special importance for the future. Vestry Covenant: The Vestry will create a Covenant to guide their work together that will include communication, decision-making and problem-solving within the Vestry, and communication with the congregation. Time will be taken at Vestry meetings to share things that parishioners have talked about with individual Vestry members. Parish Organization: It was agreed that the Vestry needs to have a clear understanding of the various activities and ministries of the parish and how they are organized: what are we doing now, who is doing what, how many volunteers are involved, and how is all this communicated or should be communicated to the congregation. While most areas are thriving, the Vestry will need to decide where to focus attention, what might need rethinking, what might be let go. It was noted that the more people are engaged, the more meaning, the more commitment. The discussion will continue at the March meeting. Same-Sex Marriage Guidelines: The Bishop has issued guidelines for same-sex marriages, including a liturgy authorized by General Convention. Redeemer clergy are all willing to preside at same-sex marriages. While it is hoped that Redeemer parishioners will support such marriages, it is important for the Vestry to discuss what it means so they can speak on the issue to the parish, especially as the issue has been divisive in some parishes. Discussion will continue at the March meeting. Buildings & Grounds: Peter Carlson, Junior Warden/Chair of Buildings & Grounds, said that new volunteers are needed to help with the grounds as one or two people who have done it for many years are retiring. The B&G Committee will be looking at what it does, what needs doing, who does it and how it may be best done in the future.

FEBRUARY VESTRY REPORT Outreach Calendar: A February-December outreach fundraising calendar was approved. Any additional events would need to be presented to the Vestry ahead of time for discussion and review. Other Business: Columbarium: Approval was given for the interment of a

non-parishioner who will share Moses Middleton’s niche.

Youth Pilgrimage Fundraiser: Approval was given for a spaghetti dinner fundraiser to be hosted by Jefferson & Cathy Arrington at Redeemer to raise funds for the 2013 Youth Pilgrimage. The date is Sunday, April 28.

Adult Education: A new leader is needed for Adult Education. Mary Packard-Winkler said she would be willing to help but would like a co-leader. The forums for April-May were discussed as to whether there would be a program or whether it might “lie fallow” during that period this year.

Next and Future Meetings: The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m., in the Rectory. In future, Vestry meetings will be on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Rectory.

Angela Beckman Administrative Assistant

continued on p. 12 ...

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2013 MEN’S RETREAT

Our thanks to Alice Despard for setting up the Parish Hall, Kukula Glastris for organizing volunteers, and Chrissy de Fontenay for providing the ingredients. Thanks to all those who worked in the kitchen: Ayesha Court, Deborah Davenport, Marcy Dresser, Margaret Greene, Justin Hess, Janice Huey, Dave Robinson, Patricia Snowden, Mary Lynne McElroy, Tom McNaugher, Joelle Morris, Mary Packard-Winkler, Susanne Shirzad, Karen Stewart, Tom Smith, David & Jane Winer. And thanks Lucy & Charles Court, Evan & Nico Judge, Sam & Tim Nickerson, Anna & Esther Nachbar, Ellen & Clare Paulsen, Tyler Packard-Winkler, Rebecca Riggs, Abe Sauer, and Neda Shirzad, who served the food and helped out in general. For the Talent Show, we thank our emcee Pat Fitzgerald, Tom Smith for playing the piano, and our performers: Lois Burleigh, Marie Caulfield, Chrissy de Fontenay, Steve France, Tom Greene, Susan Grigsby, Huda Kraske, Peter Magrath, Mary Lynne McElroy, Tom McNaugher, Rebecca Riggs, Lee Shipman, Susan Thon and Bob Yates.

PANCAKE SUPPER & TALENT SHOW

tree, recruiting a volunteer to care for the Benalder Steps garden, refinishing the wooden cross on the exterior of the building, and coordination of grounds projects. Treasurer’s Report: Gary Hacker summarized the year-end financial position. Mary K Young, Chair of the Finance Committee, presented the 2013 Budget, noting that she and Gary are confident about 2013 finance. The 2013 budget was approved. Stewardship Report: Nathan Price reported that we have reached 95% of the 2013 pledge goal. There is an 11% increase over the past two years. Although there is a shortfall of about $27,000, he was hopeful that some additional pledge increases will be received. He feels that the figures are representative of the more meaningful measure of the campaign that our growing community is faithfully committed to Walking God’s Path Together. Thanks to Retiring Vestry Members: Cathy Baker, Peter Kendall, Nathan Price and Frances Sharon were thanked for their service on the Vestry. Gary Hacker was thanked for his two years of service as Treasurer. Each was praised for their commitment, caring, focus and efforts. Special mention was made and thanks given to Angela Beckman who helps makes everything work.

Catherine Sands

The 2013 Men’s Retreat was held on February 8-10 in the West Virginia mountains near Berkeley Springs. Fifteen men from the parish enjoyed a wonderful weekend of thoughtful discussion on the theme Men and Their Brothers. Using the Bible, film and poetry, we explored the wide variety of experiences of what it means to be in a family. We looked at the stories of Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, and the Prodigal Son – all great stories of our past – and how these stories related to our own lives and in the world today. The conversations were rich and meaning-ful and each of us reached new understandings. We watched A River Runs Through It for further reflection on our theme. As hoped for, new friendships were developed and old ones deepened. Redeemer is blessed by some very remarka-ble and fine men. If you would like to be part of this re-treat, you are welcome next year.

The Rev’d Joe Clark

Back Row: John Judge, Ben Ivins, Tom McNaugher, Pat Fitzgerald. Middle Row: Ron Pugsley, Jack Hutchings, Stuart Chandler, Steve France, Jefferson Arrington. Front Row: Joe Clark, Denny Shaw, Bob Dresser, Paul Theerman.

continued from p. 11 ...

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NEWS FROM ECUADOR

Meredith Griggs, parishioner and Peace Corps volunteer, sent two wonderful reports from Ecuador telling of a very different world from that of Bethesda, Maryland. The full stories are posted on the Parish Outreach board.

Unparalleled Adventure in the Jungle Meredith spent ten days in the Oriente, Ecuador’s Amazon basin jungle, as an interpreter for a medical brigade run by Timmy Global Health of Indianapolis, Indiana. The brigade included: five doctors, a physician’s assistant, four nurses, two pharmacists, interpreters, two computer experts, Depauw University undergraduates, professors, a biologist and a sociologist. They saw 840 patients in nine communities, selected because they have no health sub-center and are hard to reach. Each day the brigade set up in very poor and dirty schools or community centers, often wearing knee high boots because of the mud. Examining tables were desks pushed together and the bathrooms “defy description.”

The accommodations also left much to be desired, as did the food, though they did enjoy one “bang-up” dinner provided by the people of Napo province. The brigade was very well organized by a Tufts classmate of one of the volunteers who had brains, ability, energy and a good disposition. The daily logistics would give the Army pause. Many on the trip had not been abroad before and even for veterans this was not an easy stint. The patients, mostly women and children, presented with parasites, skin and scalp issues, arthritis, gastritis, high blood pressure, and many more serious problems that had to be referred to hospitals. Men had work injuries and prostate problems. Meredith learned new medical terms in Spanish and that medical professionals are a subculture unto themselves,

always talking about illness, treatment, drugs and dosage. Everyone paid their own way which meant they spent between $2,000 and $3,000 to be on the trip. The volunteers came from various backgrounds

and some had held fundraisers before coming so they could bring medicines with them. An outstanding feature of the trip was the generosity and friendliness both of the native people and of all those in the brigade. Meredith described the trip as “intense, grueling, but worth it.”

My Summer Vacation “Chile is not Ecuador,” wrote Meredith. She described much of Santiago as being like the Upper East Side of New York (only cleaner and quieter). The wealthy have maids and love their elaborate malls. The population is mixed as evidenced by the Anglican churches, German clubs, Italian firefighting companies, French lycees, and English, German and Croatian last names. Alongside the wealth is dreadful poverty – Chile is one of the most unequal countries in the world, with huge disparities in living conditions and education. South of Santiago is a lake region that reminded Meredith of Maine, only larger. Snowcapped volcanoes, pine forests, rushing rivers and waterfalls. Meredith found the politics and history interesting. Some general observations: Chileans always peel their tomatoes, copper is the biggest export, they eat large empanadas all the time, recycle, have a good metro system, are generally quieter and more reserved than most Latin Americans, love sports (as participants and spectators), and read a lot. All this may seem normal to Americans and Chileans, but it is not true of Ecuador, where Meredith is once again and preparing for another medical brigade

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MARCH-APRIL BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES

We wish a happy March birthday to: Marleigh Burns Julia Dohner Steve Gibson Jackson Wade Steve France Chris Hull Toni Strother Jefferson Arrington Anne-Sophie Zhou John Vorhes Justin Cinkala Hal Palmer Sally Pugsley Phil Burns Pat Stevens Zoe de Waal Bob Yates Lili Liu Olivia Devereux Steve Raber Alexander Devereux Beate Kendall Dillon Stewart Marie France Nathan Price Caroline Sherrard Olivia Thomason Scott Williams Haden Wade Maris Imbrie We wish a happy April birthday to: Karina Kimberlin Mildred Devereux Tom Smith Karen Stewart Brooke Anthony Navid Shirzad Joe Clark Celia Noya Pat Fitzgerald Marina France Maggie Raber Sarah Nelson Meredith Myers Eli Livezey Peter Magrath Kelsie Kimberlin Katie Nelson Chrissy de Fontenay Colleen Katz Jordan Avery Nathan Hotes Kim Penn Robin Razzino Julie Wolf-Rodda

We wish a happy anniversary to: Pat & Susan Fitzgerald (in March) Alice Despard & Stuart Chandler (in April)

The Christian Contemplative Group meets in the Nave on the second and fourth Monday of each month, 7:30-9:00 p.m. (September—June, except during Lent). All are welcome to join or drop in at any time. Typically, we begin with a short liturgy of simple chants, readings, and centering prayer. We then transition into discussion centering around a selected text, currently The Gospel of Thomas. Through the study of relevant texts combined with contemplative practices such as centering prayer and lectio divina, we learn to act in new ways, changing old patterns that no longer serve us, developing more satisfying relationships with ourselves, others, and God, and aligning with our inner compass, or true essence. Questions? Contact parishioner Clarice Leslie: [email protected] or 301-229-2609.

CHRISTIAN CONTEMPLATIVE GROUP

Classes, which are held on Saturday morning, 9:30—11:00 a.m., in the Parish Hall, are of a combined Beginner/Advanced Beginner level. Mats and props are provided. Drop-ins are always welcome ($15 per class). The introductory class is free. Teacher Alice Despard has been a practitioner of hatha yoga for over fourteen years and a teacher for six. Her style emphasizes the fundamental aspects of developing strength, flexibility, and proper alignment, and cultivating always a “beginner’s mind.” For more information, please visit the Beginner’s Mind Yoga website: www.alice-despard.blogspot.com. All are welcome.

BEGINNER’S MIND YOGA

ALTAR FLOWERS

If you would like to donate altar flowers on any Sunday in 2013, please add your name to the sign-up sheet in the Parish Hall. Donations may be made in honor, memory, celebration, thanksgiving or anonymously. The dedication will be printed in the Sunday announcements. The requested donation is $65. Please let the Parish Office know your dedication at least a week before the Sunday you are giving the flowers and if there are specific flowers you would like to be used (if available). More than one person may sign up for a given Sunday. You may choose to keep the flowers after the service or arrange for them to be taken to someone who is ill or homebound. Please speak with a member of the clergy to find out if there is anyone who might be given the flowers.

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Sunday Holy Eucharist, 8:00 a.m. Adult Forum, 9:15 a.m. (September—May) Bible Study, 9:15 a.m. Adult Choir Warm-up, 9:15 a.m. (September—June) Youth Choir Warm-up, 9:45 a.m. (September—June) Nursery Care, 10:15 a.m. Choral Eucharist, 10:30 a.m. Church School, 10:30 a.m. Coffee Hour (following 10:30 Eucharist) Monday AA Meeting, 12 noon Taizé Service & Healing Rite, 7:30 p.m. (first Monday of the month, October—June; every Monday in Lent & Holy Week) Christian Contemplative Group, 7:30 p.m. (second & fourth Mondays) Tuesday Education for Ministry, 6:30 p.m. (September—May) Vestry Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (in the Rectory) AA Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday Morning Prayer & Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. AA Meeting, 12 noon Holy Eucharist, 12 noon Youth Choir Rehearsal, 4:30 p.m. (September—June) Thursday Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:30 p.m. (September—June) Friday (Parish Office closed) AA Meditation Group, 12 noon AA Meeting, 8:30 p.m. Saturday Beginner’s Mind Yoga, 9:30 a.m.

WEEKLY AT REDEEMER

The Church of the Redeemer

6201 Dunrobbin Drive at MacArthur Boulevard Bethesda, Maryland 20816

Phone: 301-229-3770 • Fax: 301-320-8037 Website: www.redeemerbethesda.org

The Parish Office is open Monday—Thursday,

8:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m.

■ PARISH CLERGY & STAFF

The Reverend Susan C. Thon, Rector email: [email protected]

The Reverend Robin G. Razzino, Associate Rector email: [email protected]

The Reverend Dr. David J. Schlafer, Assisting Priest email: [email protected]

Thomas P. Smith, Director of Music email: [email protected]

Angela Beckman, Administrative Assistant email: [email protected]

Alice Despard, Sexton email: [email protected]

Vikki Clayton, Seminarian Intern Email: [email protected]

■ VESTRY & OFFICERS

Cathy Baker, Senior Warden (2014) 301-229-6963 • email: [email protected]

Peter Carlson, Junior Warden (2015) 301-983-0541 • email: [email protected]

Steve Gibson (2015) 301-229-1168 • email: [email protected]

Janice Huey (2013) 301-320-6023 • email: [email protected]

Melinda Nelson (2014) 301-391-6117 • email: [email protected]

Mary Packard-Winkler (2016) 301-320-3976 • email: [email protected] David Riggs (2014) 301-365-3675 • email: [email protected]

Callie Raulfs Wang (2015) 757-254-7843 • email: [email protected]

Cynthia Winder (2014) 301-229-9093 • email: [email protected]

Mary K Young, Treasurer/Chair, Finance Committee 301-320-5696 • email: [email protected]

Catherine Sands, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore 301-229-5159 • email: [email protected]

PARISH CONTACT INFORMATION

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER 6201 Dunrobbin Drive at MacArthur Boulevard Bethesda, Maryland 20816

THE REDEEMER SPIRIT

A monthly publication of The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer

The deadline for the May issue is April 20.

w w w . r e d e e m e r b e t h e s d a . o r g

PARISH MISSION STATEMENT We are called as a loving community of faith to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ in word and action, and to welcome all people who seek a deeper knowledge of God. We will achieve our mission by: striving to create a vibrant, focused, and growing Church which embodies Christian values and beliefs; implementing programs and services that are meaningful in our daily lives (faith in action); building a safe environment that encourages us to reach out to our community, to people of other faiths and beliefs, and to people who differ from us in important ways.

The Holy Eucharist is celebrated each Sunday at 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. Please visit the parish website to learn more about opportunities for

worship, Christian formation, and outreach.

he redeemer spirit march-april 2013...the redeemer spirit /march-april 2013 personal notes we offer...

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