Thursday, December 31, 2009

SAINT MONICA'S NEWS

Your Comments and Contributions

Your comments and contributions are important. Please let us hear from you.

1. Send your emails to: monicahartford@gmail.com
2. Comments can be made on the blog.
3. See me (Floyd Wyche) in Church. I attend 8:00 a.m. service

Special Collections for Haiti

There will be second collections on Sunday, January 24 and Sunday, January 31 for the people of Haiti.


Church Directory

The parish office continues to update the addresses, phone numbers, cell and home and email address of all our members. Please fill out the form Membership Information Update before the end of January. One of the responsibilities of the Rector and Vestry is to have a correct membership list.

Annual Parish Meeting

There will be one service on Sunday, February 7, 2010, at 9:30 a.m. After the service, the Annual Parish Meeting will be held.

Y.P.F. Bake Sale

The Y.P.F. will host a bake sale on Sunday, February 7, 2010 prior to the Annual Parish Meeting.

Timely Reminder

This is a timely reminder to all organizations, wardens and committees to submit their annual reports by January 31, 2010 for inclusion in our Annual Report. There is a template available for those who need one.

Meetings

1. There will be a meeting of all ushers on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. If you are unable to attend please contact Marie Brown-Harvey prior toe the meeting.

1. The Brotherhood of St. Andrew will have a meeting on Sunday, January 31, 2010 after the 10:30 a.m. celebration. PLease contact Vice Director Cyrus Aimey for more information.

Upcoming Events

1. All Vestry members are reminded of the monthly vestry meeting on Thursday, January 14, 2010 beginning at 6:30 p.m. We will discuss and hopefully pass our 2010 budget and present a slate of candidates for our 2010 Annual Election on February 14, 2010. Members are invited to attend.

2. Confession of Peter and the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity on Monday, January 18, 2010.

3. Observance of the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. On Monday, January 18, 2010. Office closed.

4. Conversion of St. Paul on Monday, January 25, 2010.

5. Clergy Conference Wednesday, February 3 and Thursday 4, 2010

Feast of the Epiphany

On the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6th, we remember the magi, the three wise men who came from the East (Matthew 2:1-12) bearing gifts for Jesus. The gifts were gold, a symbol of Jesus' kingship on earth; frankincense representing prayer; and myrrh representing his suffering. Epiphany also reminds us that Christmas has ended. Here is another opportunity for us to show forth Jesus Christ to each other and our community. Here is another opportunity for us to remember that our church will grow when we grow spiritually. So how do we show forth Christ?

1.We must have a deep appreciation for each other as members of our church and be supportive of our working together.

2. We must be prepared to get to know each other more; do not listen to the "stuff" in the corridor and believe it.

3. We must look for the positive and encourage it to be uplifted more and more. We need to advertise the great things happening in our church and be weary of those who see only the negative.

There is an old tradition of blessing the homes during this season. I am inviting you to invite me (Fr. Davidson) to bless your home. This will allow us to spend time together and to become better acquainted. Happy New Year.

40 Days of Discussion

On January 6 we will launch our 40 days discussion on the way forward at St. Monica's.

We will have our discussions in four groups; each group will consist of three tribes.

Our responsibility to each other will be to make certain that by February 13, Absalom Jones Day, we have action plans with time lines to help us improve the life of our parish and our witness and ministries to our community.

Birthdays and Anniversaries

Happy birthday to Jessica Hurdle January 1; Christine Hurdle January 5; Cynthia Timoll January 7; Doreen Radway January 9; Jennie Dixon, Tyreik Noel, and Hubbard Warren January 12; Winston Anderson, Elroy Toppin and Allen James January 20; Nellie Jordan and Joanne Silva January 22; Lorraine Mapp January 24; Mildred Hunter January 27; Mary Pinnock and Floyd Wyche January 28; Janice Binion and Lauren Toppin January 30; Barbara Neals January 31; Gladstone Cooke and Maxine Hillburn February 2; Jeanette Walker February 3; Lisa Powell February 4; Keith Martin February 6.

Happy anniversary to Verna Ferguson and and her dear husband January 16; Floyd and Claudia Wyche January 28.

Condolences

We record the death of Ms. Ruth Colvin. Ms. Colvin was once head of the Daughters of the King; she organized and ran our summer program and was a lay visitor. We extend Christian sympathy to her family and friends. May her and all souls of the faithful departed rest in peace

From her family:

The Colvin (Elliott and Spencer) family express gratitude to all who called, sent cards, brought food, made visits, or just prayed for us. You help us remember Ruth's kind and generous spirt and the legacy she leaves us and the rest of the world. These precious memories, we will cherish. We are most grateful. God bless you richly.

The Daughters of the King and ECW

The Daughters of the King and ECW wish to extend thanks to all who contributed to the repast for Ruth Colvin.

Our sincere Christian sympathy goes out to the wife, children and friends of Mr. William Seymour. May he rest in peace


Saturday, December 26, 2009

PHOTO ALBUM

Christmas Eve Preparation and Service











































Bus Ride To Hartford Schools














DIOCESE AND ITEMS OF INTEREST

We Have Elected A New Bishop

See either the October 2009 or November 2009 Blog for information about the election of The Rev. Dr. Ian T. Douglas' as the 15th Bishop of the Diocese of Connecticut.

I Wonder Why?

This column answers interesting questions.

Ever wonder what the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" means?

The Twelve days of Christmas are the twelve days between Christmas Day, December 25th, the birth of Jesus, and Epiphany, January 6th, the day Christians celebrate the arrival of the Magi (Wise Men) and the revelation of Christ as the light of the world.

The Christmas song, "the Twelve Days of Christmas" had its origin in religious symbolism - and with a serious purpose.

It dates from a time of religious persecution. The song, was written as a kind of secret catechism that could be song in public without fear of arrest - a learning or memory aid to Christians in fact.

The song can be interpreted on two levels - the surface meaning, or the hidden meaning known only to the Christians involved. Each element is a code word for a religious truth.

1. The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus.
2. The two turtledoves are the Old and New Testaments.
3. Three French hens stand for faith, hope and love.
4. The four calling birds are the four Gospels.
5. The five gold rings recall the Hebrew Torah (Law), or the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament.
6. The six geese a-laying stand for the six days of creation.
7. The seven swans a-swimming represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.
8. The eight maids a-milking are the eight Beatitudes.
9. Nine ladies dancing are the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.
10. The ten lords a-leaping are the Ten Commandments.
11. Eleven pipers piping represent the eleven faithful Apostles.
12. Twelve drummers drumming symbolize the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles Creed.

If you think Jesus being symbolized as a partridge in a pear tree sounds blasphemous, remember: "Jerusalem! Jerusalem How often would I have sheltered thee under my wings, as a hen does her chicks, but thou wouldst not have it so." (Luke 13:34 and Matthew 23:34).

The "true love" in the song refers to God Himself.
The "me" receiving the gifts is every Christian.
So that "silly" song we sing at Christmas time has more meaning than we thought.

The preceding explanation was provided by:
Holy Trinity Luther Church
30 Lockwood Avenue
New Rochelle, New York



THE BOOK CORNER

Mere Christianity
by C.S. Lewis

After reading several books on a similar topic that did nothing but confuse me, I was glad that I came upon C.S. Lewis's work. All of the other books about the existence of God are way off in their own world, and discourage anyone who feels lost in their ideas about God. This book really explained the reasons that God must exist, and then moved on to easily describe the major beliefs of Christians, without leaving anyone out in the cold on what the key issues actually are. This book is perfect for the agnostic, the atheist, and even the Christian that wants to know the logical and simple reasons that C.S. Lewis came to be a Christian. Over and over, his words made me see even the simplest concepts of religion in a completely new light. I was greatly impressed and have already read this book multiple times.
Review by B. Stubblefield

Saturday, December 12, 2009

LITURGY OF THE WORD AND WEEKLY READINGS

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Book of Isaiah (61:10-62:3)
Psalm 147, page 804, BCP
Paul's Letter to the Galatians (3:23-25; 4:4-7)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to John (1:1-18)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday John 13:20-35; Tuesday Matthew 18:1-14; Wednesday John 4:46-54; Thursday John 5:1-15; Friday Matthew 1:18-25; Saturday John 6:1-14

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Book of Micah (5:2-5a)
Psalm 80:1-7, page 702, BCP
Letter to the Hebrews (10:5-10)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (1:39-45)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday 1 Peter 1:3-9; Tuesday Luke 1:26-38; Wednesday Luke 1:39-48a; Thursday Matthew 1:18-25; Friday John 3:31-36; Saturday Acts 6:1-7

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Book of Zaphaniah (3:14-20)
Canticle 9, page 86, BCP
Paul's Letter to the Philippians (4:4-7)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (3:7-18)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Matthew 24:15-31; Tuesday Matthew 24:32-44; Wednesday Matthew 24:45-51; Thursday Matthew 25:1-13; Friday Matthew 25:14-30; Saturday Matthew 25:31:46

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Book of Malachi (3:1-4)
Canticle 16, page 92, BCP
Paul's Letter to the Philippians (1:3-11)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (3:1-6)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Matthew 22:22-33; Tuesday Matthew 22:34-46; Wednesday Matthew 23:1-12; Thursday Matthew 23:13-26; Friday Matthew 23:27-39; Saturday Matthew 24:1-14

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

SAINT MONICA'S NEWS

Rector's Thanks

Today (December 27, 2009) makes it two years since my coming to St. Monica's. The cup is three quarter full and thank God for all of you who continue to love the Lord and support the work of his church, St. Monica's. I continue to settle in to my ministry here. Every day allows me to get to know something new or some parishioner a little better.

Thank you for your words of encouragement, your love and indeed your criticism for they allow me to look again at myself. I know I am a better priest because of my being here at St. Monica's Pray for me and Maureen as we begin our third year.

Many thanks to the Stewardship Committee and Joyce Taylor who arranged the 2010 envelopes in alphabetical order.

Many thanks to our choirs who over the last few weeks worked hard at the musical pieces we will enjoy and to the alter guild for preparing our worship space.

A Blessed and Happy /Merry Christmas to all of you from the Davidsons and the wardens and members of the vestry.

My wife and I thank all of you for your cards and gifts during this time of sharing.

Advent

The Advent wreath: The circle of the wreath reminds us of God Himself, His eternity and endless mercy, which has no beginning or end. The green of the wreath speaks of the hope that we have in God, the hope of newness, of renewal, of eternal life. Candles symbolize the light of God coming into the world through the birth of His son. the four outer candles represent the period of waiting during four sundays of Advent, which themselves symbolize the four centuries of waiting between the Prophet Malachi and the birth of Christ. The colors of the candles vary with different traditions, but there are usually three purple or blue candles, corresponding to the sanctuary colors of Advent, and one pink or rose candle. The purple candles are usually lighted every Sunday in Advent while the pink candle is usually lighted on the third Sunday of Advent. The light of the candles itself becomes an important symbol of the season. the light reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world that comes into the darkness of our lives to bring newness, life, and hope. It also reminds us that we are called to be a light to the world as we reflect the light of god's grace to others (Isaiah 42:6). The progression in the lighting of the candles symbolizes the various aspects of our waiting experiences.

Novena; Nine Mornings of Worship; With Special Worship; Begins at 6:30 a.m.

Wednesday, December 16th: Waiting for Jesus Our Salvation (Matthew 7:20)
Thursday, December 17th: "O Sapientia" O Come, O Come Emanuel
Friday, December 18th: With God all things are possible (Matthew 1:20-21)
Saturday, December 19th: Trust God for deliverance (Luke 1:19)
Sunday, December 20th: "Blessed are you among women" (Luke 1:42)
Monday, December 21st: Feast of St. Thomas "My Lord and my God" (John 20:28)
Tuesday, December 22nd: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord" (Luke 1:46)
Wednesday, December 23: It is all about God (Luke 1:60-63)
Thursday, December 24th: We are redeemed (Luke 1:68)

Upcoming Events

December 12th Advent retreat for tribe leaders and members; December 16th-24th Novena begins at 6:30 a.m.; December 24th Service at 10:30 p.m.; December 31st Service at 10:30 p.m.

Food Baskets

You are invited to bring your food filled baskets to help feed families of Hartford's School children on Monday, December 21, 2009. Dress warmly and please arrive promptly at 5:00 p.m. The basket (a laundry basket) should include Christmas dinner: Turkey, ham, or pork roast of a gift certificate from Stop & Shop, potatoes (sweet or white) or rice or macaroni and cheese, vegetables (canned, fresh, or frozen), fruit juices, 2 dozen rolls and dessert. Deadline for sighning up is Monday, December 14, 2009.

YPF Fruit Baskets

In conjunction with the 1st Annual Bus Ride on December 21st, the YPF will distribute fruit baskets to residents of St. Monica's Apartment. The fruits to be placed in the baskets are: apples (red delicious and granny smith), bananas, pears, grapefruit, and oranges. Any donations will be appreciated.

Memorial Service For The Homeless

On Monday, December 21, 2009 Trinity Episcopal Church, Hartford will hold a memorial service for the homeless who have dies on the street and also a luncheon. We are invited to this ecumenical and interfaith gathering. St. Monica's is collecting new socks, gloves and hats that will be distributed to those at the service. Arlette Hurdle is coordinating this event along with other members of the vestry. Please be generous with your giving.

Birthdays and Anniversaries

Happy birthday to Beresford Mapp December 6; Jason Hall, Jefferson McAlpine December 7; Brian Brito, Gladys Brown, Ruth Colvin December 8; Connor Elliott, Michael Holder, Juliett Mikell, Joseph Noel, Jevon Wilson December 9; Joyce Samuels, Frances Sharp December 12; Gabrille Irving December 13; Michelle Davis December 15; Ivy Anderson and Gwendolyn Bailey December 16; Ena Smith December 17; Winne Anderson December 19; Pamela Brown, Julia Rankin, and Shenna Petrolito December 20; Marcia Esson and Joyce Taylor December 21; Jane Collins and Erica Feurtado December 22; Whitworth Lewis and Cherell Russell December 23; Christopher Toppin and Kurtis Webb December 24; Leover Neals and Norest Walter December 26; Maureen Evens, Asante Asiedu, and Verna Ferguson December 26; Courtney Samuda December 28; Nora Brown December 29; Jessica Hurdle January 1.

Marion Hanson would like to thank everyone for the many kind tokens of affection during his recent birthday.

Happy Anniversary to Calvin and Maureen Evans; Olive and Allan James December 15; Peter and Gloria Mareseles December 21.

Condolences

Rochelle and Shannon Holder thank everyone for their cards, phone calls, and word of condolences after the death of their sister/aunt.

We record the death of Laurie Sealy and we extend our Christian sympathy to his family and friends. My he rest in peace.

We extend our Christian sympathy to Mr. William Washington who mourns the death of his dear wife. May she rest in peace.

We extend our condolences to Maureen Evens and family as they mourn the death of their beloved uncle and counselor Paster Adrian T. Westney. Paster Westney was pastor of the Metropolitan Seventh Day Adventist Church in Maryland.

Monday, December 7, 2009

DIOCESE AND NATIONAL NEWS

We Have Elected A New Bishop

See either the October 2009 or November 2009 Blog for information about the election of The Rev. Dr. Ian T. Douglas' as the 15th Bishop of the Diocese of Connecticut.
THE BOOK CORNER

Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem
by Maya Angelou

We live in a troubled world: a world of pain and despair. Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem is about how the Christmas season affects people. As the Christmas season approaches, we go through a transformation; we become more compassionate, more loving, more considerate of others. People around the world share these feelings. The Christmas season causes us to be hopeful that ultimately there will be peace. The book includes a CD on which Maya Angelou reads the poem. Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher beautifully illustrate Amazing Peace with paintings.
Review by Claudia Wyche

Sunday, November 1, 2009

LITURGY OF THE WORD AND WEEKLY READINGS

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Book of Jeremiah (33:14-16)
Psalm 25:1-9 page 614, BCP
1 Thessalonians (3:9-13)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (21:25-36)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday 1 Corinthians 4:1-16; Tuesday Matthew 21:12-22; Wednesday Matthew 21:23-32; Thursday Matthew 21:23-46; Friday Matthew 22:1-14; Saturday Matthew 22:15-22

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Book of 2 Samuel (23:1-7)
Psalm 132:1-13 page 785, BCP
Book of Revelation (1:4b-8)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to John (18:33-37)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday 1 Peter 1-12; Tuesday 1 Peter 1:13-25; Wednesday 1 Peter 2:1-10; Thursday John 6:26-35; Friday 1 Peter 3:13-4:6; Saturday 1 Peter 4:7-19

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Book of Samuel (1:4-20)
Book of Samuel (2:1-10) instead of the Psalm
Letter to the Hebrews (10:11-18; 19-25)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (13:1-8)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Revelation 20:7-15; Tuesday Revelation 21:1-8; Wednesday Revelation 21:9-21; Thursday Revelation 21:22-22:5;
Friday Revelation 22:6-13; Saturday Revelation 22:14-21

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Book of Ruth (3:1-5; 4:13-17)
Psalm 127 page 782, BCP
Letter to the Hebrews (9:24-28)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (12:38-44)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Revelations 18:1-8; Tuesday Revelations 18:9-20; Wednesday Revelations 18:21-24; Thursday Revelations 19:1-10; Friday Revelations 19:11-16; Saturday Revelations 20:1-6

Sunday, November 1, 2009

The Wisdom of Solomon (3:1-9)
Psalm 24 page 613, BCP
Book of the Revelation (21:1-6a)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to John (11:32-44)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Revelation 10:1-11; Tuesday Revelation 11:1-19; Wednesday Revelation 12:1-12;
Thursday Revelation 14:1-13; Friday Revelation 15:1-8; Saturday Revelation 17:1-14


SAINT MONICA'S NEWS

Parish Secretary

We welcome Ms. Whitney Haughton as our new part-time Parish Secretary. Ms Haughton will work every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and every other Wednesday. She is a student, and a member of the First Cathedral Church.

The Reuben Tribe Newsletter

The Reuben Tribe launched the first edition of its monthly newsletter, St. Monican, November, 2009. The following quote is from the Newsletter: "This Newsletter will let us know about upcoming events in the church and about what is happening within the Episcopal Church Family. It will help us nurture and inform the congregation and new members, as well as reach out to others in the community. Our neighbors will know who we are and what it's like to be a part of St. Monica's Episcopal church." Joyce Asiedu is the editor.

Friendly Reminder

Please remember that the items in the Food Pantry/Feeding Closet are for Food Pantry/Feeding use only. If you are hosting a coffee hour or an event, please plan accordingly by purchasing all of the items you will need including cutlery and paper goods in appropriate quantities. The signed contract with Food Share states that we will use these items for Food Pantry/Feeding only. Thank you for your cooperation.

November Events

November 1, 2009 - All Saints/All Souls and Baptism
November 15, 2009 - Report from Discussions
November 22, 2009 - Thanksgiving Service and celebration of the independence of Barbados at both services
November 29, 2009 - Advent Sunday

Y.P.F. Bake Sale

The Y.P.F. hosted a bake sale on Sunday, November 22, 2009 after both the 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. service.

Father Davidson

Father Davidson was in Ireland from Tuesday, November 3rd through Saturday, November 7th for his annual Continuing Education; he returned on Sunday, November 8th. He will complete his 2009 vacation from Monday, November 23rd through Thursday, November 26th.
Father Tom Beck was our supply priest On Sunday, November 8th.

Annual Christmas Bus Ride

The following is an excerpt from a flyer that is posted on the Church's bulletin board:

St. Monica's first Annual Christmas Bus Ride will be Friday, December 18, 2009 from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. The baskets (laundry baskets) should include Christmas dinner: turkey, ham, or pork roast or a gift certificate from Stop & Shop, potatoes (sweet or white) or rice or macaroni and cheese, vegetables (canned, fresh or frozen), fruit juice, 2 dozen rolls and desserts.

In conjunction with the first Annual Bus Ride, the Y.P.F. will distribute fruit basket to residents of St. Monica's Apartments on Monday, December 21, 2009. The fruits to be placed in the baskets are: apples (red delicious and granny smith), bananas, pears, grapefruit, and oranges. Any donations are appreciated.

Family Matters

This is information about donations given for specific things:

Church sign/notice board - a proper Church sign will cost about $4,000; to date $900 has been given and is in the bank.

A proper lectern costs about $2,500; to date $350 has been given and is in the bank.

An industrial dish washer can cost cost about $4,500; to date $350 has been given and is in the bank.

The $100 given to buy a clock is in the bank; we will soon purchase a clock.

Birthdays, Anniversaries, Baptisms and Condolences

Happy birthday to Darryl Burke, Florence Mursell, and Myrtle Senior November 1st; Cyril Burke, Patricia Nelson and Charles Satchell November 3rd; Evelyn Green November 4th; Herbert Bowen and Carmen Brown November 5th; Scott Thornton November 9th; Marcus Clark November 11th; Rory Elliott, Lucy Fuentes and Gwendolyn Sangster November 13th;
Denzil Samuda November 14th; Hylton Cooke November 15th; Patricia Hurdle November 17th; George Jordon November 19th; Bates Lyons November 20th; Carol Anderson November 24th; Blondell Thornton November 25th; Andrea Branch November 26th; Austin Tagbo November 27th; Verona Francis and Kenneth Lambert November 29th; Marion Hanson and Stephanie Lightfoot December 3rd; Cameron Jones and George Hudson December 5th.

Congratulations to the Barnabys on the birth of a second grandchild. We pray God's blessings on mother and child.

Condolences: We extend our sincere Christian sympathy to Rochelle and Shannon Holder on the death of a loved one. We also extend our sincere Christian sympathy to Olive James and family as they mourn the death of an uncle.




DIOCESE AND NATIONAL NEWS

We Have Elected a New Bishop

The following was copied verbatim from Episcopal Diocese of Connecticut website:
www.ctdiocese.org.

The Rev. Dr. Ian T Douglas was elected on the 2nd ballot during the electing convention October 24, 2009 as 15th Bishop of the Diocese of Connecticut and has accepted.

Autobiography

I have been incredibly blesses my entire life by the love and support of a variety of communities in the Episcopal Church. I am a life-long Episcopalian/Anglican of immigrant stock who grew up in an economically depressed mill-town in central Massachusetts. I am a New Englander at heart; educated in Vermont, Kristin (my spouse) and I have made our homes in New Haven, Connecticut and greater Boston.

I grew up in a typical, broad-church Parish at Christ Church, Episcopal in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. As a missionary in L'Eglise Episcopale d'Haiti 1983-1984 I learned how the Church ministers with poor and marginalized people. For the last two decades I have served as a parish priest at St. James's (yes, it's James's with "s's"), an economically challenged, diverse, and dynamic inner city congregation in Cambridge, Massachusetts. As Professor of Mission and World Christianity at the Episcopal Divinity School since 1989, I have traveled the world teaching and advocating for God's mission of restoration and reconciliation.

My wife Kristin, our three young adult children Luke, Timothy, and Joanna, and our dog Lily show me over and over the incredible gift of the love of God in Christ. My frinds and ministry colleagues continually call me to a deeper understanding of what the Holy Spirit is up to in the world today.

Treasurers Workshop

The Treasurers Workshop was held Saturday, November 21, 2009 from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
at the Diocesan House, 1335 Asylum Avenue, Hartford. It was free but attendees had to bring their bag lunches; beverages were provided. The workshop was for treasurers, assistant treasurers, financial secretaries, business managers, wardens, clergy and bookkeepers. The registration was limited to the first fifty applicants and there could not be more than two per parish.
Persons interested could either telephone 860-233-4481 or go to the Dioceses homepage (http://www.ctdiocese.org) for more information.

Diocesan Day of Repentance

Bishop Andrew D. Smith sent a document to the clergy and wardens of the parishes of the Diocese of Connecticut regarding the Diocesan Day of Awareness and the Diocesan Day of Repentance. The Day of Repentance was held Saturday, November 7, 2009 at Christ Church Cathedral, Hartford. The morning session began at 9:00 a.m. (coffee at 8:00 a.m.). The Service of Repentance began at 1:00 p.m. , with a reception to follow. The number that was called for more information was 860-233-4481. It was sponsored by the Anti-racism Committee. See the July 2009 blog for excerpt of Bishop Smith's document.

Monday, October 26, 2009

THE BOOK CORNER

The Real Mary:Why Evangelical Christian Can Embrace The Mother Of Jesus
by Scot McKnight

Scot NcKnight opened his his book with a question. Why is a Protestant writing a book about Mary? McKnight gives several reasons.

"Because the story of the real Mary has never been told."

"Because she was the mother of Jesus and because the mother of Jesus ought to matter to each of us."

"Because the Magnificat, her song in Luke's first chapter, is the Magna Carta of early Christian songs."

"Because the real Mary always leads us to Jesus."

Stop for a moment and consider the society in which Mary lived. She was betrothed to Joseph and thus was legally married except for sexual relations. By saying to the angel Gabriel "may it be" she was allowing herself to become pregnant while remaining a virgin. She would have to
convince her family that she was still a virgin, then Joseph, then the people in her village.

Mary knew Joseph would realize he was not the father, and his first thought would be that she had committed adultery. The Torah was clear about the punishment for adultery, death by stoning. This courageous Jewish woman, perhaps thirteen years old or at most sixteen, had an unfailing faith and trust in God.

When Mary uttered her song, the Magnificat, she expressed the feeling devout Jews had of the Messiah. He "would be like Moses, mentoring everyone to obey the Torah; like a prophet...; like David the King...after conquering the Land and routing the enemies of Israel; and like Solomon, offering wisdom to the people." She gradually come to understand that Jesus was following another course. Upon his crucifixion Mary realized "to reign in this world,... was to give one's life for others as Jesus had given his."

This is a profound book and I highly recommend it.
Review by Floyd Wyche

Saturday, October 10, 2009

LITURGY OF THE WORD AND WEEKLY READINGS

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Book of Job (42:1-6, 10-17)
Psalm 34: 1-8, page 627, BCP
Letter to the Hebrews (7:23-28)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (10:46-52)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Revelation 1:4-20; Tuesday Revelation 4:1-11; Wednesday Ephesians 4:1-16;
Thursday Revelation 5:11-6:1-11; Friday Revelation 6:12:-7:1-4; Saturday Revelation 7:9-17

Sunday, October 18, 209

Book of Job (38:1-7)
Psalm 104:1-9, 25, 37b page 735, BCP
Letter to the Hebrews (5:1-10)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (10:35-45)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Luke 1:1-4; Tuesday 1Corinthians 15:41-50; Wednesday 1Corinthians 15:51-58; Thursday 1Corinthians 16:1-9, Friday Matthew 10:16-22; Saturday Philemon 1-25

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Book of Job (23:1-9, 16-17)
Psalm 22:1-15 page 610, BCP
Letter to the Hebrews (4;12-16)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (10:17-31)


Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday 1Corinthians 13:4-13; Tuesday 1Corinthians 14:1-12; Wednesday 1Corinthians 14:13-25; Thursday 1Corinthians 14:26-33a, 37-40; Friday 1Corinthians 15:1-11; Saturday 1Corinthians 15:12-29

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Book of Job (1:1; 2:1-10)
Psalm 26, page 616, BCP
Letter to the Hebrews (1:1-4; 2:5-12)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (10:2-16)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday 1Corinthians 10:14-11:1; Tuesday 1Corinthians 11:2, 17-22; Wednesday 1Corinthians 11:23-34; Thursday 1Corinthians 12:1-11; Friday 1Corinthians 12:12-26; Saturday 1Corinthians 12:27-13:1-3
SAINT MONICA'S NEWS

Upcoming Events

October 24, 2009 - Youth Forum 4:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall
October 25, 2009 - Commitment Sunday at both services
November 1, 2009 - All Saints/All Souls and Baptism
November 15, 2009 - Report from Discussions
November 22, 2009 - Thanksgiving Service and celebration of the independence of Barbados at both services
November 29, 2009 - Advent Sunday

Family Matters

This is information about donations given for specific things:

Church sign/notice board - a proper Church sign will cost about $4,000; to date $900 has been given and is in the bank.

A proper lectern costs about $2,500; to date $350 has been given and is in the bank.

An industrial dish washer can cost cost about $4,500; to date $350 has been given and is in the bank.

The $100 given to buy a clock is in the bank; we will soon purchase a clock.

Birthdays, Anniversaries, Baptisms and Condolences

Happy birthday to Synfoni Green October 2nd; Angela Chambers October 4th; Beverly Haughton October 5th; Nicholas Harvey October 6th; Susan Davis October 7th; Immauni James October 8th; Florence Burke October 11; Parron Duncan October 16; Beverley Forester and Jordan Taylor October 25th; Warren Monet October 28th; Edrick Hall October
30th.

Happy 60th wedding anniversary to Percy and Eleanor Nelson.

Congratulations and best wishes to Christine Hurdle and Wilson Faucher who were married Saturday, October 3, 2009. Christine Hurdle is the daughter of Arlette Hurdle.

The Sacrament of baptism will be administered on Sunday, November 1, 2009, All Saints Day.

Christian sympathy to Nora Brown on the death of a loved one.

Calling All Youth

There will be a youth forum in the Parish Hall on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. The forum will include a panel of individuals from the Department of Corrections, Hartford Police, Windsor Police, Adult and Juvenile Probation, Juvenile Detention, Gang Task Force and Social Works Department. Please come out and bring a friend to discuss the challenges that our youth face today and how we can help them to choose the right path. More information will follow.

Friday, October 9, 2009

DIOCESE AND NATIONAL NEWS

We Have Elected a New Bishop

The following was copied verbatim from Episcopal Diocese of Connecticut website:
www.ctdiocese.org.

The Rev. Dr. Ian T Douglas was elected on the 2nd ballot during the electing convention October 24, 2009 as 15th Bishop of the Diocese of Connecticut and has accepted.

Autobiography

I have been incredibly blesses my entire life by the love and support of a variety of communities in the Episcopal Church. I am a life-long Episcopalian/Anglican of immigrant stock who grew up in an economically depressed mill-town in central Massachusetts. I am a New Englander at heart; educated in Vermont, Kristin (my spouse) and I have made our homes in New Haven, Connecticut and greater Boston.

I grew up in a typical, broad-church Parish at Christ Church, Episcopal in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. As a missionary in L'Eglise Episcopale d'Haiti 1983-1984 I learned how the Church ministers with poor and marginalized people. For the last two decades I have served as a parish priest at St. James's (yes, it's James's with "s's"), an economically challenged, diverse, and dynamic inner city congregation in Cambridge, Massachusetts. As Professor of Mission and World Christianity at the Episcopal Divinity School since 1989, I have traveled the world teaching and advocating for God's mission of restoration and reconciliation.

My wife Kristin, our three young adult children Luke, Timothy, and Joanna, and our dog Lily show me over and over the incredible gift of the love of God in Christ. My frinds and ministry colleagues continually call me to a deeper understanding of what the Holy Spirit is up to in the world today.

Diocesan Day of Repentance

Bishop Andrew D. Smith sent a document to the clergy and wardens of the parishes of the Diocese of Connecticut regarding the Diocesan Day of Awareness and the Diocesan Day of Repentance. The Day of Repentance will be Saturday, November 7, 2009 at Christ Church Cathedral, Hartford. The morning session will begin at 9:00 a.m. (coffee at 8:00 a.m.). The Service of Repentance will begin at 1:00 p.m. , with a reception to follow. For more information call 860-233-4481. Sponsored by the Anti-racism Committee. See the July 2009 blog for excerpt of Bishop Smith's document.


Monday, October 5, 2009

THE BOOK CORNER

Welcome to Sunday
by Christopher L. Webber

My wife and I are former Methodists who have attended an Episcopal church for the past 18 months. We were attracted by the Eucharistic service but don't wish to "check our brains at the door", as would be required by the Bishop of Rome. I bought this book because I wanted basic information on the background and meaning of the service we so recently found. The book didn't disappoint me. The author explains the traditional architectural styles and floor plans, the roles of the Ministry and the Laity, and the Christian year as it is observed in the Episcopal church. The author systematically works his way through a typical service, explaining in adequate depth for all but the budding theologian, the origins and meanings of each part. He also discusses trends within the church, for example, to include more elements of the Eastern Orthodox service. Each chapter ends with questions for thought and further discussion. This would make it a great book for an adolescent or adult discussion group. If you want a book to explain the Episcopal (Rites I and II) service in methodical and easily understood fashion, this is a great start.
Review by A. Bastanza

Monday, September 7, 2009

LITURGY OF THE WORD AND WEEKLY READINGS

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Ester (7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22)
Psalm 124, page 781, BCP
The Letter of James (5:13-20)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (9:-38-50)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday 1Corinthians 7:25-31; Tuesday Hebrews 1:1-14; Wednesday
1Corinthians 8:1-13; Thursday 1Corinthians 9:1-15; Friday 1Corinthians 9:16-27; Saturday 1Corinthians 10:1-13


Sunday, September 20, 2009

Proverbs (31:10-31)
Psalm 1, page 585, BCP
The Letter of James (3:13-4:3, 7-8a)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (9:30-37)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Romans 10:1-15; Tuesday 1Corinthians 5:1-8; Wednesday 1Corinthians 5:9-6:1-8; Thursday 1Corinthians 6:12-20; Friday 1Corinthians 7:1-9; Saturday 1Corinthians 7:10-24

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Proverbs (1:20-33)
Psalm 19, page 606, BCP
The Letter of James (3:1-12)
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (8:27-38)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday John 3:11-17; Tuesday 1Corinthians 1:20-31;Wednesday 1Corinthians 2:1-13;
Thursday 1Corinthians 2:14-3:1-15; Friday 1Corinthians 3:16-23; Saturday 1Corinthians 4:1-7

Sunday, September 6. 2009

The Letter of James (2:1-10, 14-17)
Psalm 125, page 781, BCP
The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (7:24-37)

Suggested Readings for the Week

Monday Philippians 1:1-11; Tuesday Philippians 1:1 2-30; Wednesday Philippians 2:1-11; Thursday Philippians 2:12-30; Friday Philippians 3:1-16; Saturday Philippians 3:17- 4:1-7
SAINT MONICA'S NEWS

Harvest Festival

The Harvest Festival is schedule for Sunday, September 27, 2009 at 4 p.m. and is sponsored by the Harvest Committee. The theme is:

The Harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. Be a laborer in the harvest.

Homecoming

On Sunday, September 6, 2009 we had one service that began at 9:30 a.m. We went to our our tribes, and each tribe said the Liturgy of the Word. The following is a summary of helpful questions for discussion. The complete questions are in the September 6, 2009 bulletin.

1. What are the Committees of St. Monica's doing well? What can we do to improve their functioning?

2. What are your views on having outreach in other parts of the United States, the Caribbean and Africa?

3. Twice we have had group discussion then corporate worship. What are your views on using this format for Bible Study once a month on a Sunday? Would you be willing to be a leader of one of the Bible Study groups?

4. Share your thoughts on having one choir that sings traditional tunes, gospel and contemporary songs and on music as a whole at St. Monica's

5. What do you cherish most about St. Monica's?

The comments made by tribal members will be made available in the future. At 10:30 a.m. the service continued with the Confession.

Father Davidson

Father Davidson will be on vacation from Monday, September 7 to Monday, September 28. He will be back in office on Tuesday, September 29.

Father Tom Beck was our supply priest on September 13th. Father Chris Rose was our supply priest on September 20th and September 27.

Calling All Youth

On Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. there will be a youth forum in the Parish Hall. Panelists will include individuals from the Department of Corrections, Hartford Police, Windsor Police, Adult and Juvenile Probation, Juvenile Detention, Gang Task Force and Social Services. Please come and bring a friend to discuss challenges our youth face today and how we can help them choose the right path. More information will follow.

Birthdays and Anniversaries

Happy birthday to
Elizabeth Martin Ceceline Morson September 6; Kevin Forand and Concie Hanlan September 7; Bjorn Hume September 8; Jordan Rice September 9; Cheris Lee Branch and Vina Morgan September 13; Wentworth Lawrence and Kerry-Ann Stewart September 13; Marva Brito and Alice Satchell September 14; Iman Devonish September 17; Varon Webb September 18; Pauline Scott September 19.

FUN DAY: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2009

Everyone had a wonderful time on Fun Day. The weather was ideal, the food was yummy, the games were lively and the camaraderie was best of all.