From the Rector-Reflections on Diocesan Convention
Last Friday and Saturday people from around the Diocese met for the 234th Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. Carla Kauffman, our Delegate, will be sharing her reflections at a later time.
For my part, Convention this year was a bit chopped up. I missed Friday as I was home sick. I heard that the opening Eucharist was joyful and The Rt. Rev Latrelle Easterling, Bishop of the Baltimore-Washington Conference of the Methodist Church, offered a fine sermon. The business that day included electing clergy and lay people to various Diocesan councils and committees, and having table discussions about the proposed resolutions put forth this year. After lunch, the Keynote speaker was The Rt. Rev. Scott Mayer, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Northwest Texas. Afternoon workshops included advanced directive planning, Latino ministry possibilities, rebuilding efforts in our companion diocese of Puerto Rico, racism, and using digital resources. There was an anniversary banquet in the evening celebrating 10 years with Bishop Sutton.
On Saturday the Bishop offered an inspiring address on the Vision of the Diocese of Maryland: The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland is a community of love. He spoke at length about how we build a community of love through speaking truth in love, listening deeply, committing to change, and practicing and asking for forgiveness. Assisting Bishop Knudsen offered her final address, as she will be retiring at the end of this year. She too spoke on love, as well as service. She called congregations “laboratories of love” where we get down to the real work of living out God’s love.
Finally, debate and voting on resolutions took place. Resolution 2018-01, Clergy and Lay Employee Compensation, passed with amendments. Resolution 2018-02, Offering Caring, Practical Response to the Opioid Crisis in Our Communities, passed with amendments. One of the amendments resolved that every congregation make Narcan available for use in the event of an overdose. The Vestry will be exploring this further at our next meeting. Resolution 2018-03, In Support of Common Sense Gun Control Measures, and Resolution 2018-04, In Support of the Poor People’s Campaign, both passed after extended debate. You can find each resolution as passed here.
You’ve heard me say before, that though we are a hierarchical church, we are also a grassroots church. Every church has an Annual Meeting that elects delegates for Diocesan Conventions. Diocesan Conventions do the work of the wider community, and elect delegates to go to the General Convention of the entire Episcopal Church every three years. That third year is this year – so expect lots of Facebook posts and tidbits in the Shell over the summer as folks gather for General Convention in Austin, TX. And get excited, because in 2021 it will be in Baltimore – and as the hosting Diocese we’ll have lots to do!
Yours in God’s peace,
Kristin+
Nursery School
Along with warmer weather the spring has also ushered in more excitement and fun, stimulating activities at the nursery school. Three and four-year old students and their families had the opportunity to participate with staff members at a Science Fair Night. The evening was a tremendous success with erupting volcanoes, slime, balloons, and more.
There were school-wide trips to the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, special Mother’s Day celebrations, and even special springtime animal visitors (butterflies and chicks)!
With the end of the school year quickly approaching there are also many events to look forward to – spirit week, end-of-year picnics and graduations!
Enrollment for the 2018-2019 school year continues for children turning 2, 3, or 4 prior to September 1, 2018. If you, or anyone you know, is interested in learning more about the St. James’ Nursery School, please contact Pat Castle, Director.
Quartermania in Two Weeks
Friday, June 1st, will be a great night to begin your summer by gathering with your family and friends to win special gifts for yourself and your loved ones.
St. James’ Church will hold it’s Quartermania event at the church on FRIDAY, June 1st; the doors will open at 6 pm with the games beginning at 7 pm. Delicious refreshments will also be available for purchase throughout the evening.
For those who may not know, Quartermania is a game that can be played by anyone from three to 93–a great family activity! Imagine a game that combines Bingo and an Auction using only quarters with lots of prizes to bid on!
E-mail judysquartermanias@aol.com or call Judy @ 240-674-1961 to advance reserve a seat for $5 (a $3 discount!); admission fees will be collected at the door. Come join us to begin your summer by experiencing this fun game!!!
Also, if you are able, baked good donations for our Youth Bake Table at our Quartermania event would be greatly appreciated. We are expecting a crowd, therefore, this would be a fantastic opportunity for the youth to raise funds for their Mission Trip this summer.
Please label your donation with one copy of the INGREDIENTS then bring your donation to the church by FRIDAY, June 1st, before 6:00. I will be there from 4:00 until…😊 Please call or text me at 301-788-0136 if you have any questions.
Thank you, in advance, for your continued support of our fundraisers.
Blessings~
Marilyn Hancock
Quartermania Chairperson
WEEKLY ANNOUNCEMENTS
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Prayer Rotation
Please join the Daughters of the King in praying for each parishioner in rotation during 2018 by taking this notice home and by posting it where it will remind you to pray on a daily basis for the needs and blessings of:
Chris and Misty Tieman (Holten, Haeden, Ascher)
John Travers and Linda Bonifant-Travers
Thomas and Beverly Williams (Jordan)
A member of the Daughters of the King will be contacting you this week for special prayer requests.