Announcements for December 30

RSVP and Instructions for the Feast
This year’s Feast of St. John the Evangelist begins with Evening Prayer in the church at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 5. Please RSVP to the parish office by January 2. And everyone is asked to bring a small object to the feast that symbolizes or represents their particular connection to St. John’s. It can be fun or serious. Consider a memento or symbol for a special event (for example, a wedding or baptism), an activity or ministry that you particularly enjoy, a special place at St. John’s. Watch your e-mail for further suggestions.

Lessons and Carols This Sunday
Services of Scripture readings interspersed with music of prayer and praise are a rich part of our Anglican worship tradition. This Sunday’s 10:00 a.m. service will be a service of Christmas Lessons and Carols. Holy Communion, although not a traditional part of these services, will be included on Sunday.

Recycle Your Christmas Trees and Lights
Natural Christmas trees and holiday lights can be recycled at Irons Oaks (Vollmer and Western) on Saturdays, December 29 and January 5, from 9:00 a.m. until noon.

Sunday School Classes are on Vacation
Christian Education classes for all ages are on vacation this Sunday, but will resume January 6.

2013 Offering Envelopes are Available
Please pick up your 2013 offering envelopes in the undercroft.

2012 Pledge Payments
For tax purposes, clearly marked 2012 pledge payments received through January 6 will be posted to 2012 statements. After January 6, 2012 payments are still welcome, but will be posted to 2013 statements, listed as previous year pledge payments.

Reflection for December 30

Shed upon your Church, O Lord, the brightness of your light, that we, being illumined by the teaching of your apostle and evangelist John, may so walk in the light of your truth, that at length we may attain to the fullness of eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (The Collect for the Feast of St. John the Evangelist, December 27; Book of Common Prayer, p. 238).

Christmas Worship Schedule

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

(December 23)

The Holy Eucharist, Rite 1:  8:00 a.m.

The Holy Eucharist, Rite 2:  10:00 a.m.

Christmas Eve

The Holy Eucharist with Children's Christmas Pageant, 4:00 p.m.

Music of Christmas, 10:00 p.m.

The Christ Mass (Choral Holy Eucharist), 10:30 p.m.

Christmas Day

The Holy Eucharist, 10:00 a.m.

The First Sunday after Christmas Day

(December 30)

The Holy Eucharist, Rite 1:  8:00 a.m.

A Festival of Christmas Lessons and Carols, with the Holy Eucharist:  10:00 a.m.

(The Wednesday healing service will NOT be held on December 26.)

Announcements for December 23

Christmas Pageant Rehearsals
Participants in the children’s Christmas pageant will rehearse this Sunday during the morning 9:00 hour and again at 4:00 p.m.

2013 Offering Envelopes are Available
Offering Envelopes for next year are available in the undercroft. Please pick yours up. Using the envelopes helps the parish record contributions more efficiently.

Parish Office Closed Christmas Week
The parish office will be closed December 24 through January 1. Phone messages will be checked periodically.

Contribute to Christmas Flowers
If you wish to contribute to the poinsettias and special greens that adorn the church during the Christmas season, please use the flower envelope included with the Christmas letter or found in the pews. Contributions may be designated as memorials, thanksgivings or purely to the Glory of God.

Save the Date for the Feast
The annual Feast of St. John the Evangelist, celebrating both our patron saint and our own parish community is scheduled for Saturday, January 5. Please plan to come. Invitations have been mailed; RSVP cards can be placed in the offering plate or returned to the parish office.

Gifts to Lawrence Hall
Thanks be to God for everyone who contributed money and gift cards to the youth of Lawrence Hall for Christmas. $1075.00 was raised.

Christmas Worship Schedule
Services on Christmas Eve will be at 4:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The early service includes the children’s Christmas pageant. The late service is the festive, choral Christ Mass. It is preceded by special Christmas music for choir, organ and congregation beginning at 10:00 p.m. The Christmas Day service begins at 10:00 a.m.

Reflection for December 23

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it although this time, or at least right now, it has come very close. My pastor talks often about our dual citizenship, as Children of God and Goodness, gorgeous and divine, and we are also people with human biographies and wounds and families, living in a world of unimaginable suffering, brutality, madness….

[My Jesuit friend Tom Westin] says, “Advent is not for the naïve. Because in spite of the dark and cold, we see light—you look up, or you make light, with candles, trees. And you give light. Beauty helps, in art and natures and faces. Friends help. Solidarity helps.…”

Advent says that there is a way out of this trap—that we embrace our humanity, and Jesus’s humanity, and then we remember that he is wrapped up in God (Anne Lamott, posted on Facebook December 15).

Announcements for December 16

Christmas Pageant Organizational Meeting This Sunday
Children of all ages are invited to participate in the children’s Christmas Pageant, offered during the 4:00 p.m. service on Christmas Eve. There will be a brief organizational meeting for parents and children in the church after the 10:00 service this Sunday, December 16.

Vestry Meeting
The December meeting of the vestry is Monday, December 17, beginning at 7:00 p.m..

New Parish E-mail Address
We have updated the computer and changed internet service providers in the parish office. Check with the parish office if you need the new e-mail address. Also, please note that we are no longer maintaining a dedicated fax line.

Contribute to Christmas Flowers
If you wish to contribute to the poinsettias and special greens that adorn the church during the Christmas season, please use the flower envelope included with the Christmas letter or found in the pews. Contributions may be designated as memorials, thanksgivings or purely to the Glory of God.

Save the Date for the Feast
The annual Feast of St. John the Evangelist, celebrating both our patron saint and our own parish community is scheduled for Saturday, January 5. Please plan to come. Invitations have been mailed; RSVP cards can be placed in the offering plate or returned to the parish office.

Cookie Walk Thanks
This year’s Cookie Walk was a great success. Heartfelt thanks to all the bakers, buyers and helpers. Without you the Cookie Walk could not function or exist. Profits are over $3,500. Save the date; next year’s Cookie Walk will be December 7, 2013. –Alison Deniston

Christmas Worship Schedule
Services on Christmas Eve will be at 4:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The early service includes the children’s Christmas pageant. The late service is the festive, choral Christ Mass. It is preceded by special Christmas music for choir, organ and congregation beginning at 10:00 p.m. The Christmas Day service begins at 10:00 a.m.

Reflection for December 16

The idea that God, if there is a force of Logic and Love in the universe, that it would seek to explain itself is amazing enough. That it would seek to explain itself and describe itself by becoming a child born in straw poverty, in [dung] and straw...a child... I just thought: “Wow!” Just the poetry ... Unknowable love, unknowable power, describes itself as the most vulnerable. There it was. I was sitting there, and it’s not that it hadn’t struck me before, but tears came streaming down my face, and I saw the genius of this, utter genius of picking a particular point in time and deciding to turn on this (Bono, Bono: in conversation)

Announcements for December 9

The Christmas Pageant is Coming
Children of all ages are invited to participate in the children’s Christmas Pageant, offered during the 4:00 p.m. service on Christmas Eve. There will be a brief organization meeting after the 10:00 service next Sunday, December 16.

December Sunday School Schedule
Sunday School classes for children and adults will meet this Sunday, December 9, and next Sunday, December 16. They will then be on vacation December 23 and 30 and will resume January 6.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Advent Festival of Lessons & Carols at Church of the Holy Family
The Episcopal Church of the Holy Family in Park Forest will hold its most beloved annual musical event this Sunday, Dec. 9, at 4 p.m. This year's festival will feature inspiring seasonal hymns and anthems sung by Holy Family's own choir, joined by the choir of St. Paul’s in Homewood, and the Canticum Novum chamber ensemble. All are welcome to this magical and spiritual service, which will be followed by a gala reception in the Parish Hall. Holy Family is located at the corner of Sauk Trail and Orchard Dr., just west of Western Avenue.

Advent Taize Service at Infant Jesus of Prague
A one hour service of simple songs, scripture, and prayer. Thursday, December 13, 7:30 p.m.

Vestry Nominations
The vestry nominating committee will be meeting soon. If you feel you might be called to this particular ministry, please speak to the Rector or one of the Wardens.

Reflection for December 9

The house lights go off and the footlights come on. Even the chattiest stop chattering as they wait in darkness for the curtain to rise. In the orchestra pit, the violin bows are poised. The conductor has raised his baton.... In the silence of a midwinter dusk, there is far off in the deeps of it somewhere a sound so faint that for all you can tell it may be only the sound of the silence itself. You hold your breath to listen.... You walk up the steps to the front door. The empty windows at either side of it tell you nothing, or almost nothing. For a second you catch a whiff of some fragrance that reminds you of a place you’ve never been and a time you have no words for. You are aware of the beating of your heart...The extraordinary thing that is about to happen is matched only by the extraordinary moment just before it happens. Advent is the name of that moment (Frederick Buechner, Whistling in the Dark).

Announcements for December 2

Please Return Your Pledge Cards
If you have not already returned your pledge cards, you may place them in the offering plate at any service or return them to the parish office. Thank you.

Make Advent Wreaths This Sunday
Whether you live alone or with family, the Advent wreath is a wonderful way to keep the season of Advent at home. Supplies, instructions, and devotions for use with the wreath will be available this Sunday, December 2, during the 9:00 hour in the undercroft. (Bring your own ring if you have one.)

Sunday School Classes Will Not Meet This Sunday
Sunday School participants of all ages are encouraged to make Advent wreaths during the education hour this Sunday.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Basket Pick Up is December 7
One family of two still needs to be adopted. Please bring all wrapped, boxed and labeled gifts to the parish office by 9:00 a.m. on Friday, December 7.

Little Hands Christmas Basket Shopping
The youth of Little Hands will meet at the church on Sunday, December 2, at 2:00 p.m. to go shopping for their family. (NOTE corrected time.) They’ll return to church to wrap the gifts.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Homewood Education Foundation Selling Christmas Trees Again
Foundation 153, which raises money for Homewood's elementary schools, is selling premium Frasier firs straight from Michigan. Order online at www.foundation153.org, and pick up your tree at Homewood's Holiday Lights Festival on Friday, December 7 from 3 - 9 pm. For more information, see Tracie or Mark Moxley.

Wonderful Holiday Concert December 9
The Grande Prairie Singers open their 2012-13 concert season at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, Faith UP Church in Park Forest, with “Winterlude.” Contact Bob or Betsy Burgwald for tickets or information.

Community Prayer Service
Flossmoor Community Church invites people from throughout our community to come together in a simple service of prayer and music the first Wednesday evening of each month. The next service is Wednesday, December 5, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Community House across the street from Flossmoor Community Church.

Vestry Nominations
The vestry nominating committee will be meeting soon. If you feel you might be called to this particular ministry, please speak to the Rector or one of the Wardens.

Reflection for December 2

There are faint stars in the night sky that you can see, but only if you look to the side of where they shine. They burn too weakly or are too far away to be seen directly, even if you stare. But you can see them out of the corner of your eye because the cells on the periphery of your retina are more sensitive to light. Maybe truth is just like that. You can see it, but only out of the corner of your eye (Janna Levin, A Madman Dreams of Turing Machines, Alfred A. Knopf, p. 12).

Announcements for November 25

Please Return Your Pledge Cards
If you have not already returned your pledge cards, you may place them in the offering plate at any service or return them to the parish office. Thank you.

St. John’s Holiday Cookie Walk is Next Saturday, December 1
The Cookie Walk depends upon bakers throughout the parish providing homemade cookies. It’s time to bake! The Cookie Walk is a significant fundraiser that benefits local charities as well as the parish. Please bring your cookies to the church on Friday, November 30. For information or to help out, contact Alison Deniston.

Pick Up Your Copy of Thrive 
Copies of the new feature magazine Thrive from the Diocese of Chicago are available at the church. Pick up a copy (one per household, please). It is also available on line here.

Calling Little Hands Bakers
Youth of the church are invited to come make cookies for the Cookie Walk: Thursday, November 29, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Moxleys.

Sunday School Classes on Vacation for Thanksgiving
All Sunday School classes for children and adults are on vacation this Sunday, November 25.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Basket Pick Up is December 7
One family of two still needs to be adopted. Please bring all wrapped, boxed and labeled gifts to the parish office by 9:00 a.m. on Friday, December 7.

Little Hands Christmas Basket Shopping
The youth of Little Hands will meet at the church on Sunday, December 2, at 3:00 p.m. to go shopping for their family. They’ll return to church to wrap the gifts.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. Every holiday season they care for nearly 1,000 children and families. Gift cards from Target, grocery stores, book or music stores, clothing stores or cash or checks (made out to Lawrence Hall Youth Services) would all be appreciated. December 14 is the deadline. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Blue Jeans Sunday This Sunday
Last call to help tidy up St. John’s grounds for the winter. Wear blue jeans this Sunday and stay for an hour or after church to help rake and bag.

Homewood Education Foundation Selling Christmas Trees Again 
Foundation 153, which raises money for Homewood's elementary schools, is selling premium Frasier firs straight from Michigan. Order online, and pick up your tree at Homewood's Holiday Lights Festival on Friday, December 7 from 3 - 9 pm. For more information, see Tracie or Mark Moxley.

Wonderful Holiday Concert December 9
The Grande Prairie Singers open their 2012-13 concert season at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, Faith UP Church in Park Forest, with “Winterlude.” It features Pergolesi's Magnificat, “Ave Maria” by both Bruckner and Rachmaninoff, and holiday favorites such as “Let It Snow” and “White Christmas.” Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door; and $10 for students. Season subscriptions, including the March and May concerts, are $40. Contact Bob or Betsy Burgwald.

Reflection for November 25

Thanksgiving tells us a lot about America, about our yearning for community and connection, about loneliness and about God.

Loneliness destroys us in the same way that bullets and poverty destroy us. It eats away at our spiritual wellbeing. It eviscerates our sense of wholeness.

In fact, loneliness kills. "O chevruta, o mituta," it says in the Talmud (Taanit 23a): Either companionship or death. And the other great religious traditions agree.

No human being is capable of living an atomized life. We live by community; otherwise, we live badly, or not at all.

Religion at its best affirms the ties of family and community, investing family celebrations with meaning and structuring family life with ritual and rules of conduct. Communities can exist without religion and God; but the most satisfying communities are those that draw on the traditions and ceremonies that religion provide. And religion at its best is not about bricks, budgets, or numbers, but about fostering sacred community among vulnerable human beings who yearn for connection.

Thanksgiving has a special hold on us, and we should rejoice in its blessings. And we should remember what it teaches us: our deep and profound need for intimacy and belonging.

(Rabbi Eric H. Yoffle, “What Thanksgiving Tells Us About America Community, Loneliness and God,” Huffington Post, November 23, 2012)

Minutes from Vestry Meeting - October 15, 2012

Formation

Evening Prayer and Thanksgiving & Prayer Requests
The vestry assembled in the church for evening prayer at 7:00 PM. The group then gathered in the undercroft meeting room and offered prayers of thanksgiving and intercession.

Attendance
Present at the meeting were the rector, Kristin Orr; senior warden, Frank So; junior warden, Audrey Ongman; vestry members Candice Barrera, Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, Bev Keene, Greg Lawrence, Gale Michael, Mark Moxley, and R.J. VanSwol; the treasurer Clay Denton; and the clerk, Susan Marquis. Vestry member John Huntoon was absent.

Parish Stewardship

Approval of Minutes from September Meeting
Gale Michael moved that the minutes from the September meeting be approved. Mark Moxley seconded, and the motion was carried.

Treasurer’s Report
Clay Denton reported that there have been extra expenses for funerals, but those expenses have been reimbursed. Our retired office manager was paid for three weeks after she left because those weeks were her paid vacation time. Pledge payments are a little behind but still pretty good. The actual amount that the church has spent this year to date is several thousand dollars less than the projected amount. This is largely due to having no Christian education director’s salary. The projected expense amount through September is either about $184,000 or $191,000. Acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report will be delayed until that amount is checked. St. John’s was the designated recipient of memorial funds for a couple of recent funerals, and some donations are still coming in.

Rector’s Discretionary Account
Pastor Orr distributed a report on the third quarter of the Rector’s Discretionary Account. Greg Lawrence moved that the report be accepted. Frank So seconded, and the motion passed.

Parish Bank Accounts
Gale Michael made a motion to approve updating the list of signers on parish bank accounts to include Kristin, Audrey, and Frank. There was a second from R.J. VanSwol, and the motion passed.

Information

Rector’s Report
Seventeen units of blood were collected yesterday at the annual parish blood drive. That is down a bit from past years. Thanks to Donna Blackburn for coordinating the event. The rector will host her annual All Saints open house at the rectory on November 4th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.
Alison Deniston is taking the lead on the annual Cookie Walk, which will take place on December 1st.
We are blessed by Michael Soto’s presence as music director. Thanks to the committee and choir for the extra work they put in during the search process.
Tracie Moxley, who has been functioning as the interim office manager, has been a huge asset in the office.
Youth worship is getting underway next Sunday. One Sunday per month there will be no separate youth worship, and families will worship together.
Little Hands children’s ministry is re-starting. Pastor Orr would like the children to spearhead the advertising and sign-up process for the Christmas basket program.
Clay is interested in easing into retirement from his position as parish treasurer. He expects to continue on until the spring.

Wardens’ Reports and/or Reports from Parish Organizations
There were no reports.

Upcoming Parish Events
The Rev. Jim Steen, Director of Ministries for the diocese, will visit St. John’s on November 4th to meet with parishioners and deliver the sermon. Diocesan convention is coming up on November 16th and 17th.

Discussion and Decisions

Planning for the October 21st Town Hall Meeting
Pastor Orr reminded the vestry that the primary goal of the meeting is to promote good communication regarding the access project.Susan Marquis will take notes to remind the vestry of the ideas discussed.
Following a discussion about what to include and how to present the information, Pastor Orr suggested an agenda:

1. She and two or three vestry members will speak briefly about why we are excited and motivated about the project. Gale, Candice, R.J., Mark, Greg, and Audrey volunteered. 
2. Frank will do a presentation/summary of the fact sheet. An enlarged copy of the architectural drawings will be on display. 
3. Anne will present specific questions about why the project would be important to parishioners. 
4. A period for parishioners to ask questions about what they don’t understand and to make comments. 
5. Summary 

Discussion of 2012 Pledge Campaign
The rector stated that the type of pledge campaign that we have done in the last two years has worked pretty well. She said, further, that we could ask people to share in writing, on a board, things that they are grateful for. Mark Moxley said that the children would like to share what they are grateful for, too. The rector asked if the vestry wants to have stewardship speakers on Sundays. The speakers remind people that giving is a spiritual discipline for individuals as well as a financial need for the parish.
Pastor Orr suggested that Pledge Sunday be scheduled for November 18th. Mailings will go out as soon as the pledge cards can be printed.
Several people volunteered to speak on Sundays:
October 28th – Greg Lawrence – both services
November 4th – Mark Moxley at 8:00 AM and R.J. VanSwol at 10:00 AM
November 11th – Audrey Ongman – at both services

Closing
Following prayer, the meeting ended at 9:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis, clerk

Approved:  November 19, 2012

Announcements for November 18

Stewardship: Pledge Sunday is This Sunday 
If you have not already returned your pledge cards, please bring them to worship this Sunday, November 18. You will have the opportunity to present them at the offertory.

Vestry Meets This Monday 
The vestry meets November 19, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the church.

St. John’s Holiday Cookie Walk is December 1
The Cookie Walk depends upon bakers throughout the parish providing homemade cookies. It’s time to bake! The Cookie Walk is a significant fundraiser that benefits local charities as well as the parish.

Thanksgiving Holiday Worship Services
St. John’s Thanksgiving celebration of the Holy Eucharist will be Thanksgiving Day, November 22, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The annual community interfaith Thanksgiving Service with the H-F Viking Choir will be held this year at St. Joseph’s in Homewood, November 21, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets: Several Families Still Need to be Adopted 
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. Gift cards, cash or checks (made out to Lawrence Hall Youth Services) would all be appreciated. December 14 is the deadline. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Blue Jeans Sunday This Sunday
Wear blue jeans to church this Sunday and next Sunday (November 18 and 25) and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping work.

Homewood Education Foundation Selling Christmas Trees Again
Foundation 153, which raises money for Homewood's elementary schools, is selling premium Frasier firs straight from Michigan. If you order by Nov. 19, prices are $50 for a 6-8' tree, $60 for an 8-10' tree. ($10 more for orders after Nov. 19.) Order online at www.foundation153.org, and pick up your tree at Homewood's Holiday Lights Festival on Friday, December 7 from 3 - 9 pm. For more information, see Tracie or Mark Moxley.

Wonderful Holiday Concert December 9 
The Grande Prairie Singers open their 2012-13 concert season at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, Faith UP Church in Park Forest, with “Winterlude.” Contact Bob or Betsy Burgwald for information or tickets.

Reflection for November 18

Amidst groans of being more stuffed than the bird itself, Americans will toss a whopping $282 million of uneaten turkey into the trash this Thanksgiving.... Nationwide, consumers will purchase around 736 million pounds of turkey this Thanksgiving.... The USDA reports that 35% of perfectly good turkey meat in the U.S. does not get eaten after it is purchased by consumers (and that’s not including bones).... [We’ll] be throwing away about 204 million pounds of meat.... (Dana Gunder, “This Thanksgiving, Be More Grateful than Wasteful,” posted here).

Announcements for November 11

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Drive
Pledge Sunday is November 18. On that Sunday you will have the opportunity to offer your pledge during worship. Or they may be returned to the parish office at any time.

Responding to Hurricane Sandy
Episcopal Relief and Development is one way you can help with recovery and relief efforts following this devastating storm. You can donate online here. Flyers with information on donating are also available on the information tables.

Loaves and Fishes This Sunday, November 11
Loaves and Fishes (formerly known as Brunch Bunch) will present their annual Thanksgiving parish brunch following the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, November 11. Turkey and dressing will be provided. Last names A-R, please bring a side dish; S-Z a dessert. Whether or not you are able to bring a dish, you are welcome; please plan to come!

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour. Or you can stop by the parish office anytime to adopt a family.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. Every holiday season they care for nearly 1,000 children and families. Gift cards from Target, grocery stores, book or music stores, clothing stores or cash or checks (made out to Lawrence Hall Youth Services) would all be appreciated. December 14 is the deadline. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Parish Dinner Groups
This Sunday is your last chance to sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 18 and 25, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. NOTE DATE CHANGE.

Wonderful Holiday Concert December 9
The Grande Prairie Singers open their 2012-13 concert season at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, Faith UP Church in Park Forest, with “Winterlude.” It features Pergolesi's Magnificat, “Ave Maria” by both Bruckner and Rachmaninoff, and holiday favorites such as “Let It Snow” and “White Christmas.” Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door; and $10 for students. Season subscriptions, including the March and May concerts, are $40. Contact Bob or Betsy Burgwald.

Reflection for November 11

O Lord our Governor, whose glory is in all the world: We commend this nation to your merciful care, that, being guided by your Providence, we may dwell secure in your peace. Grant to all in authority wisdom and strength to do your will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness, and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people in your fear; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 820).

Announcements for November 4

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Drive 
As you consider your pledge for 2013, reflect upon: How does St. John’s help you connect to God, to your faith, to a caring community, and to the needs of the world? Pledge cards can be returned to the parish office at any time or you will have the opportunity to offer them within worship on Sunday, November 18.

Responding to Hurricane Sandy 
Episcopal Relief and Development is one way you can help with recovery and relief efforts following this devastating storm. You can donate online here. Flyers with information on donating are also available on the information tables.

Guest Preacher This Sunday: The Rev. Jim Steen
The Rev. Jim Steen, Director of Ministries on Bishop Lee’s leadership team, will preach at both services Sunday, November 4.

Adult Forum with Jim Steen
Everyone is invited to a forum with Jim Steen, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Classroom 4 in the Education Wing. Come hear about new initiatives in the Diocese of Chicago to enhance congregational vitality. Ask questions about programs and activities in the Diocese.

All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory
All parishioners and guests are invited to the Rector’s annual All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory, this Sunday afternoon, November 4, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Loaves and Fishes Next Sunday, November 11
Loaves and Fishes (formerly known as Brunch Bunch) will present their annual Thanksgiving parish brunch following the 10:00 a.m. service next Sunday, November 11. Plan to come!

Remembering the Faithful Departed on All Saints’ Day
We will offer special prayers for the faithful departed at the Wednesday morning celebration of the Holy Eucharist on November 7. Please phone or e-mail the parish office if you have individuals you would like included in these prayers.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour. Or you can stop by the parish office anytime to adopt a family.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. Every holiday season they care for nearly 1,000 children and families. Gift cards from Target, grocery stores, book or music stores, clothing stores or cash or checks (made out to Lawrence Hall Youth Services) would all be appreciated. December 14 is the deadline. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting on Monday, November 5, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room

Parish Dinner Groups Sign up for the 2012-2013
Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 18 and 25, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. NOTE DATE CHANGE.

Central Standard Time Resumes This Sunday, November 4
Remember to set your clocks back one hour.

Reflection for November 4 (All Saints' Sunday)

The Church is “the communion of Saints,” that is, a people made holy through their mutual participation in the mystery of Christ. This communion exists through history, continues in the present, and endures beyond the grave and gate of death into heaven, for God is not a God of the dead but of the living, and those still on their earthly pilgrimage continue to have fellowship with those whose work is done. The pilgrim Church and the Church at rest join in watching and praying for that great day when Christ shall come again to change and make perfect our common humanity in the image of Christ’s risen glory (Holy Women, Holy Men, p. 742).

Announcements for October 28

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Drive
You should soon be receiving the mailing with information about St. John’s annual pledge drive. Please take the time to read and consider the enclosed information. Please also reflect on the words on the back of the pledge card. St. John’s is a “place to connect.” How does St. John’s help you connect to God, to your faith, to a caring community, and to the needs of the world? Pledge cards can be returned to the parish office at any time or you will have the opportunity to offer them within worship on Sunday, November 18.

Guest Preacher November 4: The Rev. Jim Steen
The Rev. Jim Steen, Director of Ministries on Bishop Lee’s leadership team, will preach at both services Sunday, November 4. He will also present a forum and be available for questions during the 9:00 a.m. hour in the adult Sunday School class in the Education Wing.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour. Or you can stop by the parish office anytime to adopt a family.

All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory
All parishioners and guests are invited to the Rector’s annual All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory, Sunday, November 4, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Remembering the Faithful Departed on All Saints’ Day
We will offer special prayers for the faithful departed at the Wednesday morning celebration of the Holy Eucharist on November 7. Please phone or e-mail the parish office if you have individuals you would like included in these prayers.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting on Monday, November 5, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 11 and 24, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Central Standard Time Resumes November 4
Remember to set your clocks back one hour.

Reflection for October 28

For the Parish
Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 817).

Announcements for October 21

Vestry Town Hall Meeting This Sunday: Update on the Accessibility Project
During coffee hour this Sunday, October 21, the vestry will present an update on efforts to improve overall accessibility at St. John’s. All parishioners are urged to come hear about what has been done thus far, to ask questions, and join in the conversation about this important initiative. Please read reflections by Steve Hofer and Mark Moxley, posted here. A summary fact sheet on the accessibility project is available here.

Youth Worship This Sunday
Youth Worship resumes this Sunday, October 21, beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Youth Chapel in the education wing. Children of all ages are always welcome in church throughout the service, but grade school-aged children are invited to participate in youth worship if they wish. It is offered as an engaging age-appropriate worship experience for the liturgy of the Word of God, or the first portion of the Eucharist. Youth worship participants join their families and the parish family at the peace and all share Holy Communion together.

Little Hands Meets Sunday
St. John’s children’s outreach group, Little Hands, meets this Sunday, from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. in the undercroft.

All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory
All parishioners and guests are invited to the Rector’s annual All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory, Sunday, November 4, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 11 and 24, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Reflection for October 21

The holy life is not lived in isolation, in sterile conditions of religious purity, where everyone agrees and everyone gets along. Conformity is the death of creativity. Instead it is lived in the noisy marketplace of ideas and opinions, amid the many smells and sounds of our common humanity, the exhilarating and frustrating reality of being alive in the midst of life. If our fingernails are not dirty then we probably have not been practicing our religion. If our faith has not entertained a question we probably have not been thinking. Welcome to the holy chaos of God (Bishop Steven Charleston).

Fact Sheet on Accessibility Project

1. Why are we considering accessibility improvements?

• St. John's presents significant barriers to individuals with various disabilities. 
• Refer to individual vestry member's reflections. 

2. When did the vestry start exploring improving accessibility?

• At least once in St. John's past (in 2003) and perhaps additional times, vestries have been concerned about the lack of accessibility and have given serious study to improving physical accessibility. There is no simple or easy solution. 
• In 2009, as part of ongoing attention to building concerns, interest grew within the vestry to approach the issue again. 

3. What has been done so far?

• A task force, chaired by Mike Madden, was appointed by the vestry to study the issue and present recommendations. 
• The task force presented its report in the summer of 2010. 
• Acting upon the recommendations of the task forces report, the vestry prepared a "Request for Proposal" which was sent to multiple architectural firms. After four firms were invited to make presentations to a vestry subcommittee, ESA was selected. 

4. What were the task force's specific recommendations?

• Provide access to all three levels of the church. Installation of an elevator in the west foyer was the preferred method to achieve this. 
• Create a designated handicapped entrance and parking. 
• Enhance the worship experience for people with physical, visual and hearing disabilities. 
• Provide an accessible restroom. 

5. Why do they propose an elevator in the west foyer?

• It is a high traffic area that provides access to all three levels. 

6. Why can't we build a ramp?

• To comply with ADA slope requirements, the ramp would need to be roughly 60 feet long. There are limited options for placement of a ramp of that length. The vestry's 2003 work on improving accessibility looked into an exterior ramp that would have run the length of the west side of the church. The architects report at the time said "We believe that this solution is a balance of economy and aesthetics. You may wish to consider an internal solution, such as providing a lift in the vestibule between the school and the church.... This solution will provide accessibility between all three levels of the facility and will be aesthetically superior." 
• As mentioned above an exterior ramp would not provide access to the undercroft, an important location in the life of our parish community. 

7. Why are our current chair lifts inadequate?

• They are useless for someone in a wheelchair. 
• They require the presence of an able-bodied operator. 
• They are frightening to ride. 
• Unfortunately individuals forgo church rather than face the inconvenience and stigma of using the chair lifts. 

8. What have the architects done so far?

• Prepared "as is" drawings of the property. 
• Evaluated current electrical, water, HVAC systems. 
• Prepared preliminary drawings for several proposed ways of addressing the task force' s recommendations. 

9. What is included in these preliminary drawings/proposals?

• Elevator 
• Accessible washroom. 

10. Additional components that could be a part of the project.

• Provide an open, inviting "gathering" space in the west foyer area. 

11. Why has progress on this project been slow for the last year?

• Replacement of the flat roof became unavoidably urgent and took time. 
• Turnover in the architect's office. The architect who had primary responsibility for this project left the firm. 
• Initial cost estimates were higher than anticipated. The architects asked us for rough figures on our fund raising potential and we needed some time to explore this. 

12. What are the cost estimates associated with the preliminary proposals?

• 500,000 - 550,000 
• These are very rough, provided by the architects, not a contractor. 

13. Does this include efforts to reduce costs or any value engineering?

• Not yet. 

14. These seem high. Why?

• The space is not quite large enough as is, so structural modifications would be required. 
• Considerable reworking of HVAC systems is required. 
• Elevators require 3 phase electricity, not available at the church. A special converter is required. (Or having ComEd bring it from downtown Flossmoor, where it is available--evidently an even less attractive alternative.) 

15. Can we raise this much money?

• According to the Episcopal Church Foundation, a well-organized capital campaign can reasonably expect to raise from 3 to 5 times the annual giving of a congregation. For us that would be approximately $600,000 - $1,000,000. 

16. How long would a capital campaign take?

• Not really known at this time, but typically at least three years.

17. If an elevator is installed, will there be additional ongoing costs as a result of its use?

• Yes. The actual costs would depend somewhat upon the type of elevator installed and are not specifically known at this time. They would include electricity, maintenance, and possibly a designated phone line for safety. 

18. Could we start improvements before the money is raised?

• The vestry has not considered that option at this time. It would presumably require taking out a loan. 

19. Are there other funding sources?

• Some grant money is potentially available. The largest we are aware of is $50,000. We don't know how likely we might be to receive it. 
• The diocese does not have funds to aid self-sustaining parishes with this sort of improvement. 

20. What are the next steps?

• At this point, nothing has been definitely decided. 
• Input and conversations with parishioners are welcome. 
• The next steps would presumably include a return to the architects to explore options more thoroughly, including possible cost reductions if desired. 
• The vestry will decide on a plan to proceed.

Vestry Minutes - September 17, 2012

Formation

Evening Prayer and Thanksgiving & Prayer Requests
Evening prayer commenced at 7:00 PM and included a lesson on the life of Benedictine abbess, writer, composer and mystic, Hildegard of Bingen. The vestry then met in the undercroft meeting room where the meeting began with each person offering prayers of thanksgiving and intercession.

Attendance
Present at the meeting were the rector, Kristin Orr; senior warden, Frank So; junior warden, Audrey Ongman; vestry members Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, John Huntoon, Bev Keene, Gale Michael, Mark Moxley, and R.J. VanSwol; the treasurer Clay Denton; and the clerk, Susan Marquis. Vestry members Candice Barrera and Greg Lawrence were absent.

Parish Stewardship

Approval of Minutes from August Meeting
Anne Edwards moved that the minutes from the August meeting be approved. Gale Michael seconded, and the motion was carried.

Treasurer’s Report
Clay Denton reported that August was a quiet month financially with no major expenses other than candles. August pledges fell behind but seem to be catching up this month. Audrey Ongman moved that the treasurer’s report be accepted. Bev Keene seconded, and the motion passed.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund
Pastor Orr distributed a report on the amounts available in the Discretionary Fund. R.J. VanSwol made a motion to note that the report had been received. After a second by Gale Michael, the motion was approved.

Information

Rector’s Report
Pastor Orr asked that the whole parish community be kept in everyone’s prayers following the recent spate of funerals we have had. 
The rector expressed thanks to everyone who participated in the parish Jubilation celebration of ministries.
Within a few days the rector should be announcing the hiring of a new music director.
All educational opportunities are back in full swing for both children and adults. The Sunday morning adult class that the rector holds between services will start with an exploration of faith and science. Mary Agnes Long and Audrey Ongman lead the Wednesday morning Bible study class. Education for Ministry meets on Thursday evenings. On Sunday mornings, Cyndie Knoll teaches the junior high group, Mark Moxley the intermediate, and Patti Pohrte and Diane Walsh-Madden the primary. Pastor Orr expressed thanks to all teachers and students.
The rector presented a card for the vestry to sign that will be sent, along with a check, to Sandy Lawless to mark the occasion of her retirement from her role as office manager.

Wardens’ Reports and/or Reports from Parish Organizations
There was no report.

Upcoming Parish Events
The dinner group program is re-starting after being inactive for some time.

Discussion and Decisions

Delegates for Diocesan Convention
A slate of three delegates: Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, and Susan O’Brien, and two alternates: Gale Michael and Doris Sheffer, was presented to the vestry. John Huntoon moved that the slate be approved. R.J. VanSwol seconded, and the motion was carried.

Columbarium Project Report
Frank So suggested that, at an appropriate time, the accessibility project architects and two or three landscape architects should be interviewed about handling the project. We need to check with the diocese for recommendations about moving forward on the project. Frank believes that we should proceed with the accessibility project to see what will be happening on the columbarium side of the building before making final columbarium plans.

Accessibility Project
Pastor Orr reminded the vestry about Jim Steen’s comments at the recent vestry retreat. He said that the vestry was elected to lead; that a vestry should not go to the parish to help decide everything, but the parish should be included in the conversation. Then it is the vestry’s job to assemble to make decisions. Our vestry will be including the parish in the accessibility project conversation at a Town Hall meeting next month. 
The vestry decided to set the meeting for October 21st after the 10:00 AM service. Vestry members will invite parishioners to the meeting through verbal announcements at both services for the two Sundays prior to the meeting. Frank So volunteered to speak on October 7th, and John Huntoon will speak on October 14th. There will also be “e-vangelist” announcements for those two weeks.
Steve Hofer commented that the things people will want to know are: the reason for the project, the cost, and the plan. It was also determined that a fact sheet would be helpful for the vestry. This would include answers to questions such as: How long will the project take? When will we start? Can we start before the money is raised? Where will the columbarium be located? What is the scope of the work to be done?
The Accessibility Task Force should be at the meeting to answer questions about what problems they identified in their study of the church facility and property. Closing After prayer, the meeting ended at 8:55. The next meeting is scheduled for October 15th.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis
Clerk of the Vestry

Approved:  October 15, 2012

Announcements for October 14

Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive: This Sunday, October 14 
St. John’s annual fall blood drive is this Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the classrooms in the education wing. You may still sign up online at www.lifesource.org or walk-ins will be welcome.

Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets Monday, October 15, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the church.

Vestry Town Hall Meeting: Update on the Accessibility Project
During coffee hour on Sunday, October 21, the vestry will present an update on efforts to improve overall accessibility at St. John’s. All parishioners are urged to come hear about what has been done thus far, to ask questions, and join in the conversation about this important initiative. Over the next few weeks, several vestry members will be sharing their reflections about the need for this work. Reflections by Frank So and Anne Edwards are here. Please give them your attention.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Reflection for October 14

Over the course of my life, I have taken on all manner of spiritual practices, from now-I-lay-me- down-to-sleep to centering prayer. I have prayed with the Psalms, with the rosary, with icons. I have picked up practices and put them down. Some still discipline and nourish my praying life.

But of all the spiritual disciplines I have ever attempted, the habit of steady reading has helped me most and carried me farthest. Of course, reading scripture has been indispensable. But reading fiction—classics of world literature, fairy tales and Greek myths, science fiction and detective novels—has done more to baptize my imagination, inform my faith and strengthen my courage than all the prayer techniques in the world (Deborah Smith Douglas, “Saved by fiction,” Christian Century, October 3, 2012).

Vestry Reflections on the Importance of Accessibility

One of the most obvious benefits of improving the church's accessibility will be to retain (and in some cases, gain or regain) older parishioners who have developed trouble using stairs. This group is a vibrant and valuable part of our parish community, and serving these people through the proposed building improvements is a worthy goal on its own. However, it's good to keep in mind that an elevator and other proposed changes can serve a much larger group than we might initially think.

There are several reasons that people of any age may be able to benefit from a more accessible building. Sometimes, a mobility impairment is only the temporary result of an injury. Not long after I took part in a parish accessibility survey in 2010, I tore some cartilage in my left knee and was using crutches for a total of two months pre- and post-surgery. It gave me a better appreciation for the issues that some of our members and visitors face every time they come to our church.

Sometimes, a person may have intermittent or recurring trouble getting around. Someone with arthritis may be able to attend church without problems for months at a time and yet know all the while that another flare-up may come the next week, or the next, or the next.

And sometimes, a person may have a constant and lifelong condition. When Mary and I celebrated the baptism of our son Ted last Pentecost, we were blessed to have numerous relatives attend the service, but I knew it would pose problems for my college-aged cousin Brad. He was born with spina bifida and has always had to use a wheelchair. For a visitor like Brad to feel comfortable at St. John's involves not just an elevator or an accessible bathroom but the whole path from car to pew, including parking, signage, and entrances.

Many churches have plans and good intentions when it comes to serving the needs of members and visitors in these categories. I feel proud to have been part of the process of putting these intentions into action at St. John's, and for many years to come, I look forward to welcoming new people to our parish who can attend because of the vision and dedication that we all share today.

--R.J. VanSwol


I’ve been thinking about how the name of our church, “St. John the Evangelist” relates to how the vestry has been focusing on accessibility issues for the past couple of years. The dictionary definition of “evangelist” is one who practices evangelism by enthusiastically promoting or promulgating something.” And, “evangelism” is defined as “zealous preaching and dissemination of the gospel.”

How much do we as individuals practice evangelism? In the modern world we don’t do much. In fact, the most obvious and frequent evangelism most of us observe are the small groups of two or three members of a few denominations that walk the streets of our neighborhoods and knock on our doors to pass out literature about the gospel. They want to share their beliefs with us. I know that many people, including me, aren’t especially comfortable and welcoming when we here such a knock on own doors at home.

 But imagine for a moment that someone is metaphorically knocking on the door at St. John’s church, not to persuade us to share their beliefs, but to want to experience and share ours. The vestry had heard such a knock from some of our own parishioners and potential new ones. Those knocks come from people who are disabled, perhaps temporarily with a healing knee or hip, or those who won’t heal and must try to cope with steep stairs between three floor levels.

Will we hear the knocks and respond so that our current members can continue to share the body of Christ? Or, so that potential new members who have disabilities can partake of it? The vestry believes we must respond by making our church accessible to all. Then we may call ourselves evangelists.

--Frank So


Our community, our worship, and our building are gifts that we are called to give everyone throughout their lives. I think of the Accessibility Project as a way that St. John's can live into this statement. I know that many of us have talked about how St. John's has been a gift to us in our lives, but how often do we acknowledge the gift we are to others? Do we think of what a gift St. John's is to other members of our church, to those from the community, or to folks who simply come in once and happen to find comfort and the grace of God within these walls?

I think acknowledging that we are a gift to others is hard; not because it would be thought of as conceited or prideful, but because as Christians there is always work involved. I am not a theologian, but I don't remember many stories in the Bible when someone understands that they are a gift, and then they get to sit back and gloat. There is usually a long journey and some hard work in there somewhere.

A few years ago, members of St. John's realized that while we were a gift to many, we couldn't be a gift to everyone who might want what we had to offer. Folks who can't navigate stairs well, or are prone to trip on uneven surfaces are not welcome here in the same way that everyone else is. We stop being a gift to long-time members of St. John's if they have to give up some of their dignity to enter our worship space. We are robbed of new members who could bless our community if they see an obstacle course instead of a place to enrich their spiritual lives.

And so the journey begins. In a few weeks we will present the information we have about the accessibility needs of this parish, and some options concerning what we need to do to make the gift of St. John's available to everyone throughout their lives. I believe the journey will be worth it, and that we will really discover what a gift we are, and more importantly, what a gift we can be to all those who enter.

--Anne Edwards


To me, the word accessibility can be examined from more than just one aspect. The physical aspect would be the building of St. John the Evangelist Church. The easier it is for both members and visitors to enter the building, the greater the access to what and why the Church exists in Flossmoor. This extends to all worship and prayer services, congregational meetings, Sunday school, Coffee Hour, Vestry meetings, committee meetings and other uses of the building. The outward visual image of the Church is one of open and natural to the casual observer.

An additional aspect is the spiritual being of the Church. Both members and visitors must be able to enter easily for whatever reason. The access of people to be able to easily attend the worship services, prayer services, speak/meet with the Rector, as well as weddings and funerals are vital activities of any house of worship. People should not have to think twice about attending St. John’s because of limited access to the Church or the Undercroft for any Church related or community activity.

Church structures, as well as their staff, are considered to be havens when disasters, both natural and personal, confront people. Both of these should be open to all, regardless of any physical disability. If St. John’s is to attain this level, changes must be made to truly be accessible to all who desire or need what can be found inside its walls.

The planning, financing, purchase and installation of an elevator will be that first step for the accessibility to all of the numerous activities, both religious and community oriented, that St. John’s offers. The Church must expand its involvement with ideas from those whose bodies may fail, but their minds are still active and continue to have so much to offer the community.

The world, in the 21st century, has changed drastically because of the continuance of manmade information/communication inventions. Most of these have caused a restructuring of the family in the last 75 years. As a result of this, the role of the Church has been reduced in importance in many American homes. St. John’s can become even more of a leader in Flossmoor, as well as the surrounding communities, as more modern, caring, outreaching and very trusting Church. St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church can be a place where, anyone in our world, can enter to find the peace, understanding or answers that they desire.

Both Mary and I worked on this assignment. Perhaps we view the Episcopal Church as a balance between our Lutheran and Catholic backgrounds. The whole Episcopal religion seems steeped in its unique ability to accept anyone at their communion table. There seems to be a flowing of genuine care and thanksgiving everywhere in and around the St. John’s community.

 --Dr. Steve Hofer


Accessibility. It’s an interesting word. When thinking about a facility, this word is a measure to determine if that building is available to as many people as possible.

But what does accessible mean when thinking about a community of faith? I suppose it is a measure by which that community is available and welcoming to as many as possible. But ultimately, I think it is a word that measures the quality of its entry points. An entry point is a means by which we enter the community of faith in deeper, more meaningful ways. At these points God is revealed to us and we are reminded who we are.

I find the concept of the entry point – that point of access – to be one of the most persistent realities in my own walk of faith. As a young child, my points of entry were Christmas and Easter and the many interesting characters in Scripture. I found small yet lasting truths while experiencing these elements of Christian tradition. As a teenager, the entry point was music. I am not a musician, but at that time of my life it was the hook that kept me thinking about God’s kingdom on earth. And as a college student, the entry point was a series of trips I took to serve the poor in Latin America. These trips had a lasting impact on my sense of place in the broader community of God.

Throughout those years and the years since, I have either grown in my Christian faith because there were various ways to access God’s truth, or not grown because I could not find or had stopped looking for the entry points.

So what does this have to do with our accessibility needs here at St. Johns in 2012? What are our limitations in terms of entry points in our church? Though I genuinely find our congregation to be warm and welcoming, I also think we can do better to improve some foundational entry points. For those with limited vision and mobility, we have a facility that rates very poorly, and thereby we reduce our capacity for a more complete community. But I fear the work to be done on this project may crowd out a host of other critical entry points that existed here at St. Johns in the past. Where is our collective effort to foster Christian development in our teenagers? Have we collectively forgotten our commitment to the millennium development goals or a similar initiative? Will we find a solution to a columbarium that has no more room for many of us?

How do we faithfully pursue an accessibility project that offers a diversity of entry points such as these?

Last Christmas, our existing system was malfunctioning and so several men carried a parishioner down the steps from the sanctuary. It was frightening and lacked dignity, and I believe it is time to solve this lasting problem. But how do we engage this project without limiting the entry points that are an important part of our past? As we continue on our journey to improve this facility, it is essential that we create an accessibility project that promotes diverse ways to access the community of faith.

--Mark Moxley

Announcements for October 7

Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive: Next Sunday, October 14
St. John’s annual fall blood drive is scheduled for Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the classrooms in the education wing. Please sign up to donate. A sign up sheet is located on the table in the west foyer or you may sign up online at www.lifesource.org.

The Blessing of the Animals: This Sunday, October 7
The annual blessing of the animals will take place Sunday, October 7, at the outdoor altar, beginning at 4:30 p.m. All beloved pets and their human companions are welcome. Every pet receives an individual blessing. Also, a prayer will be offered for pets who have died. Another round of fun contests will also be held. Come see which pet wins the Rector Look-Alike Contest this year.

Vestry Town Hall Meeting: Update on the Accessibility Project 
During coffee hour on Sunday, October 21, the vestry will present an update on efforts to improve overall accessibility at St. John’s. All parishioners are urged to come hear about what has been done thus far, to ask questions, and join in the conversation about this important initiative. Over the next few weeks, several vestry members will be sharing their reflections about the need for this work. A reflection by R.J. VanSwol is posted on this blog here.

Reflection for October 7

St. Francis' Day (October 4)

Of all the saints, Francis is the most popular and admired, but probably the least imitated (Lesser Feasts and Fasts).

Announcements for September 30

Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive: October 14 
St. John’s annual fall blood drive is scheduled for Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the classrooms in the education wing. Please sign up to donate. A sign up sheet is located on the table in the west foyer or you may sign up online.

The Blessing of the Animals: Next Sunday, October 7
The annual blessing of the animals will take place Sunday, October 7, at the outdoor altar, beginning at 4:30 p.m. All beloved pets and their human companions are welcome.

Things are Happening at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday Mornings
Christian Education classes for all ages are underway this fall during the 9:00 hour on Sunday mornings. Adults have the opportunity to explore the intersection of faith and science in the Living Faithfully class. Children learn about the Scripture readings of the day. Fellowship, coffee and the Sunday Chicago Tribune are also offered in the undercroft.

Ministry Schedules Mailed
The fourth quarter schedule for Sunday ministries has been mailed. Please note that virtually all Sunday morning ministries have been combined into a single schedule. If you would like to receive your schedule via e-mail in the future, please call or e-mail the parish office and request electronic delivery.

Daughters of the King Meet October 6 
The next meeting of the Daughters of the King will be Saturday, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Daughters will resume their study and discussion of The Four Acts of Prayer by Walter Wangerin, Jr.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting for the start of the fall season on Monday, October 1, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Reflection for September 30

An analogy is sometimes made between football and gladiatorial combat—typically by those who defend and romanticize the game. It’s an analogy that should provoke reflection by Christians. The ancient Christian critique of the Roman spectacles—which included gladiatorial combat, athletic contest and drama—focused on three things: the physical harm to the contestants, the moral harm to the spectators, and the pagan cultic ritual that surrounded the shows. Reading such critiques today raises analogous questions for Christians who participate in the modern football industry (“Unnecessary roughness: The moral hazards of football” (emphasis added), Benjamin J. Dueholm, Christian Century, September 19, 2012).

Announcements for September 23

Mustard Seed Mural
Created by the children of St. John’s in the Atrium, this mural depicts the parable of the mustard seed. “The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches” (Luke 13:18).

Sunday School Classes for Children
Children’s Sunday School classes are in full swing this Sunday. The Primary Class (grades K-3) meets in the Atrium. The Intermediate Class (grades 4-6) meets in the Education Wing. The Middle School class meets with Mrs. Knoll in the small classroom near the parish office. All classes begin at 9:00 a.m.

New Music Director: Michael Soto
We welcome Michael Soto as the new Director of Music at St. John’s. He has served in various church music ministries most of his life. He has degrees in Organ Performance, Linguistics and French, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. He will be at the 10:00 service this Sunday and will formally begin as Director of Music next Sunday, September 30.

Adult Class on Sundays: Einstein’s God – Science, Faith and the Life of Wonder
The Living Faithfully adult class continues this Sunday, September 23, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Classroom 4 in the Education Wing. This fall the class will draw upon small group discussion materials based upon the public radio program Krista Tippett on Being. The program explores ethics, spirituality and basic questions of meaning and purpose within the context of our daily lives. This fall’s discussions will center on science, faith and the life of wonder.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting for the start of the fall season on Monday, October 1, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Vestry Minutes Online
The minutes of the August meeting of the vestry are now available online on this blog.  Click the "Vestry Minutes" label. Minutes are posted after they are approved by the vestry.

The Blessing of the Animals: October 7
The annual blessing of the animals will take place Sunday, October 7, at the outdoor altar, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Reflection for September 23

“GOD GETS THE LAST WORD.” In the death and resurrection of Jesus it is clear that our God is the kind of God who insists on having the last word. To be sure, the second-to-last word, which can be very powerful, can be given to something else—despair, estrangement, hurt, evil, even death. But our God insists on having the very last word, and that is always a word of hope, of reconciliation, of healing, of goodness and life. (Martin B. Copenhaver, “The Gospel in Seven Words,” Christian Century, September 5, 2012. Read other pastors’ and theologians’ efforts to capture the Gospel in seven words here.)

Minutes of the Vestry Meeting - August 20, 2012

Formation

Evening Prayer and Thanksgiving and Prayer Requests
Evening Prayer began at 7:00 PM and included a lesson on the life and ministry of Bernard of Clairvaux. The vestry then met in the undercroft meeting room where the meeting began with each person offering prayers of thanksgiving and intercession.

Attendance
Present at the meeting were the rector, Kristin Orr; senior warden, Frank So; junior warden, Audrey Ongman; vestry members Candice Barrera, Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, Greg Lawrence, Mark Moxley, and R.J. VanSwol; the treasurer Clay Denton; and the clerk, Susan Marquis. Vestry members John Huntoon, Bev Keene, and Gale Michael were absent.

Parish Stewardship

Approval of Minutes from June Meeting
Clay Denton discovered that the minutes from June stated that the minutes from April had been approved, when it actually was the minutes from May that had been approved at that meeting. Steve Hofer moved that the minutes be approved as amended. Anne Edwards seconded, and the motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report
Clay Denton reported that after some economic instability in the markets, the value of the endowment fund is now greater than the amount that was invested. There have been no major expenses of late. The income for August has been low; but, overall, things look pretty good. Audrey Ongman made a motion that the latest treasurer’s report be accepted. Anne Edwards seconded. The motion was passed. Information

Rector’s Report
The rector reported that office manager Sandy Lawless’ last day before her retirement will be August 31st. No parish parties are planned in accordance with Sandy’s wishes, but personal notes from parishioners would be a good way to celebrate Sandy’s tenure in our office. 
Parishioner Tracie Moxley will step in as an interim office manager for perhaps three to nine months and will help us get a clear idea of what the job requires and does not require. Tracie will be paid on an hourly basis. Since she does not need health insurance, there will be some savings to the parish.
Nine people applied for the position of music director. A committee comprised of Frank So, Dee McManamy, and Cynthia Turnquest are in the process of interviewing and auditioning six applicants. A final choice should be made within the next month. Pastor Orr expressed thanks to James Janssen for filling in on the organ during the summer Eucharists.
There has been no further activity in the search for a Christian education director.
Gordon MacAdam just retired from his acolyte and lay Eucharistic minister positions.
The rector is grateful to the Tolish family (who live next-door to the rectory) for taking out a tree by the rectory garage. Steve Hofer will write a thank-you note to them.
The Diocesan Task Force on Healthcare will be looking at lay employee insurance, and St. John’s will host a Task Force meeting for the Joliet Deanery on September 6th. Pastor Orr requested that one or two people from the vestry attend this meeting. Audrey Ongman volunteered to do this.
 Pastor Orr may take the rest of her vacation time this year at Thanksgiving.
Jim Steen, diocesan Director of Ministries, will preach at St. John’s on November 4th.
Stephanie Spellers will present a Radical Welcome Workshop at St. Edmunds, Chicago on October 20th. Online registration is available.

Wardens’ Reports and/or Reports from Parish Organizations
There were no reports.

Upcoming Parish Events
The rector passed out drafts of a parish events calendar for the upcoming year. On August 26th, during the 10:00 service, students are invited to bring their backpacks for a blessing.
The annual Jubilation and Ministry Fair will take place during coffee hour on September 9th. A Loaves and Fishes lunch will be provided.  

Discussion and Decisions

Update from Columbarium Task Force
The committee made up of Frank So, Mark Moxley, and Candice Barrera, reported on their work over the last month. Frank is working on an e-mail report that he will send out. Mark will look into whether this type of work may be done by a landscape architecture firm. Greg Lawrence asked how much additional space we are expecting to add. Pastor  Orr said that we are not yet at the point where we have considered that. The committee will look into how other Episcopal churches have designed their columbaria.

Accessibility Project
The next step in the accessibility project, the vestry agreed, is to hold a parish meeting with the goals, as developed during the June vestry meeting, of:
1. getting the word out
2. testing parish interest and inviting comments and questions
3. giving the vestry an opportunity to highlight the reasons to move forward on the project
Steve Hofer suggested that we use the “e-vangelist” to lay out information over the course of four weeks.
Candice Barrera reiterated that the reason for the project is to be able to welcome everyone.
Another suggestion was to have vestry members give short speeches during church as is done often for pledge drives.
R.J. VanSwol noted that visuals are important for their ability to represent shortcomings as well as potentialities.
Mark Moxley stated his hope that there would be such an enthusiastic response that some portion of the money raised could be donated to Episcopal Relief and Development so other places could benefit.
Pastor Orr assigned homework. Each vestry member is to work on an idea for a presentation to the parish, then submit these ideas in writing to her by September 4th.

Closing
After prayer, the meeting ended at 9:25 PM.
The next meeting will be on September 17th

Respectfully submitted, Susan Marquis Clerk of the Vestry

Approved by the vestry:  September 17, 2012

Announcements for September 16

Vestry Meeting Monday
The vestry meets Monday, September 17, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the church.

Sunday School Begins This Sunday at 9:00 a.m.
All children sixth grade and under are invited to meet in the Atrium to paint this year’s window murals. The Middle School class meets with Mrs. Knoll in the small classroom near the parish office.

Adult Class on Sundays: Einstein’s God – Science, Faith and the Life of Wonder
The Living Faithfully adult class resumes this Sunday, September 16, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Classroom 4 in the Education Wing. This fall the class will draw upon small group discussion materials based upon the public radio program Krista Tippett on Being. The program explores ethics, spirituality and basic questions of meaning and purpose within the context of our daily lives. This fall’s discussions will center on science, faith and the life of wonder.

Youth Worship
Youth worship is coming soon. Stay tuned for the start date. Youth worship is an alternative worship experience for the “Word of God” portion of the Holy Eucharist. Led by children and young people, it begins at 10:00 a.m. in the Youth Chapel in the Education Wing. Children join their families in church for the Holy Communion.

Food Pantry Reports Record Needs
The Rich Township Food Pantry in Richton Park saw more traffic in August than at any time in history according to Pantry Director Vicki Sline. Attributing the increase at least in part to the recent closing of Sears at the Lincoln Mall in Matteson, she said that the Pantry served 1,024 families in August and 3,361 individuals. Of that total, only 358 were already receiving food stamps. With that in mind and winter not that far off, please continue to be generous with your food donations.

Food Pantry Benefit Fashion Show
Support the work of the Rich Township Food Pantry by attending its annual Fall Fashion Show on Sunday, October 21. The luncheon fundraiser will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Tinley Park. Tickets are $35/person or $350/table. If interested, please call (708) 748-6722.

Reflection for September 16

The heart of the evangelical enterprise is the Christian gospel lived, an enthusiasm for learning. The babble of Pentecost is more than noise; it’s a boiling over of questions and shared stories giving rise to our knowledge of God in Christ Jesus.

Good teachers encourage in us an enthusiasm for learning, a primary aim of education and the foundation of faith and witness. The heart and soul of life in God is more than sacramental communion; long before believers gathered for liturgy they shared conversation, the warm and enthusiastic give-and-take as individuals told their own stories, reflected on what they’d shared, asked questions about things never encountered before, excitedly offered insights only glimpsed for the first time and ventured to connect them all to daily life and experience. Joyful, vigorous conversation is a form of learning, and another expression of communion with the apostles and witnesses who live in our scriptures. The enthusiasm of learning is the engine of evangelism (Sam Portaro “Learning Practice," credoveni.wordpress.com).

Announcements for September 2

St. John’s Jubilation and Fall Ministry Fair Next Sunday
St. John’s Fall Kick Off celebration, Ministry Fair and Sunday School registration takes place next Sunday, September 9, following the 10:00 a.m. liturgy. Come catch up with parishioners after summer vacations, browse displays of activities and ministries at St. John’s and register children for Sunday School.

Last Call for Delegates for Diocesan Convention
The 175th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago takes place this year November 16-17 at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center. More information is available on the diocesan website. Everyone is invited to attend; you may register on-line. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s please speak to the Rector.

Thank You to James Janssen
Throughout most of the summer James Janssen has provided organ music and musical leadership for our Sunday worship services. His presence has been a wonderful gift and a blessing. Next Sunday he returns to his regular “winter” job at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Evanston.

2012-2013 Parish Calendar Available
A summary calendar of activities and holy days for the upcoming year at St. John’s is available. Print copies are available on the information tables and an electronic copy was e-mailed with last week’s e-vangelist.

Parish Office Closed for Labor Day
The parish office will be closed Monday, September 3, in observance of Labor Day.

Children’s Choral Workshop Here!
The Grande Prairie Choral Arts Children’s Choral Workshop will meet this fall here at St. John’s. Open to all students in first through fourth grades, the sessions meet on Tuesday afternoons. For more information, visit www.grandeprairiechoral.org or call 708-481-8684.

Reflection for September 2

For Labor Day
Grant us grace, our Father, to do our work this day as workmen who need not be ashamed. Give us the spirit of diligence and honest enquiry in our quest for the truth, the spirit of charity in all our dealings with our fellows, and the spirit of gaiety, courage, and a quiet mind in facing all tasks and responsibilities (Reinhold Niebuhr).

Announcements for August 26

Blessing of the Backpacks
This Sunday Students of all ages are invited to bring their backpacks, book bags or brief cases to church this Sunday, August 26. During the 10:00 a.m. liturgy, we will offer special prayers of blessing and intercession for the new school year.

Seeking Delegates for Diocesan Convention
The 175th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago takes place this year November 16-17 at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center. More information is available on the diocesan website. Everyone is invited to attend; you may register on-line. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s please speak to the Rector.

St. John’s Jubilation and Fall Ministry Fair
St. John’s Fall Kick Off celebration, Ministry Fair and Sunday School registration takes place Sunday, September 9, following the 10:00 a.m. liturgy. Come catch up with parishioners after summer vacations, browse displays of activities and ministries at St. John’s and register children for Sunday School.

Office Manager Sandy Lawless is Retiring
St. John’s Office Manager Sandy Lawless is retiring. She has been at St. John’s since 1998. We pray God’s blessing on this new chapter in her life. Her last day in the office will be August 31.

June Vestry Minutes are On-line
Minutes from the June meeting of the vestry are now posted on this blog.  Click on the "Vestry Minutes" label. Minutes are posted after they are approved. (The vestry did not meet in July.)

Children’s Choral Workshop Here!
The Grande Prairie Choral Arts Children’s Choral Workshop will meet this fall here at St. John’s. Open to all students in first through fourth grades, the sessions meet on Tuesday afternoons. For more information, visit www.grandeprairiechoral.org or call 708-481-8684.

Medication Take-Back Program
Thursday, August 30, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Bloom Township Senior Services, 425 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights. Citizens may drop off medications, vitamins, medicated liquids and ointments, inhalers, glass thermometers, and medical devices containing mercury. Unacceptable take-back items include narcotic medications, biohazardous materials, sharps and needles.

Reflection for August 26

Prayer
I work the graveyard shift of prayer, the nights that seem empty to some, but to those with a burdened heart, the nights that never end. I stay alert to the midnight call of the soul, the cry of one far away, whose spirit voice reaches out through deserted streets, to find someone, anyone, who can help remove the pain. I do not keep my vigil because I am good, but because, like you, I have been there, to the all night cafe, where you go when you just don't want to be alone. Can you stay awake with me, God asked, and yes, we said, yes, we can, this time, we can (The Rt. Rev. Steven Charleston).

Vestry Minutes - June 18, 2012

Formation
Evening Prayer and Thanksgiving and Prayer Requests
Evening Prayer began at 7:00 PM. The vestry then met in the undercroft meeting room where the meeting began with each person offering prayers of thanksgiving and intercession.

Attendance
Present at the meeting were the rector, Kristin Orr; senior warden, Frank So; junior warden, Audrey Ongman; vestry members Candice Barrera, Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, John Huntoon, Bev Keene, Gale Michael, Mark Moxley, and R.J. VanSwol; and the clerk, Susan Marquis. Vestry member Greg Lawrence and the treasurer Clay Denton were absent.

Parish Stewardship
Approval of Minutes from the May Meeting
Bev Keene moved that the minutes from the May meeting be approved, and R.J. VanSwol seconded the motion. The motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report
In the absence of the treasurer, the rector reported that our finances are in good shape with nothing unusual having happened over the past month. Revenues are good, and we are saving some money on salaries due to staff vacancies. There was no formal treasurer’s report this month.

Information
Rector’s Report
During Pastor Orr’s upcoming vacation, July 10-31, the wardens will be in charge. Chuck Hensel will serve as supply priest for all three Sundays during that period. The search for an organist is ongoing. Pastor Orr is in the process of assembling a committee to evaluate candidates. Publicity on the vacancy will be out soon.
Sandy Lawless will retire from her position as office manager at the end of August. We will keep in mind, when planning a way to celebrate her many years of service to the church, that Sandy would prefer a low-key response from the parish.
In the fall, Pastor Orr is planning to invite the parish to document, in some way, the sprouting of the Kingdom of God in the world.

Wardens’ Reports and/or Reports from Parish Organizations
The wardens had no reports.
Gale Michael reported that the Ice Cream Social is coming together nicely and that she is grateful for parish help.

Upcoming Parish Events
The annual Community Ice Cream Social will follow the Flossmoor Parade on July 4th.

Discussion and Decisions
Reports on webinar presentations
Audrey Ongman, Mark Moxley, and Kristin Orr participated in the recent webinar presentation on endowments. The webinar staff taught that an endowment is not a managed investment; rather, the money is meant to be used as well as saved. If a church closes, the endowment belongs to the diocese.

Formation of columbarium task force
St. John’s columbarium is fully subscribed. It should be expanded and may have to be moved. Pastor Orr asked for volunteers for a committee to do preliminary work on finding out what companies do this kind of work. Frank So, Mark Moxley, and Candice Barrera offered to serve.

Accessibility project
Pastor Orr stated that we need to increase the visibility of this project within the parish and suggested parish meetings in the fall. Audrey suggested a coffee hour meeting with sandwiches at which we would present our work so far and ask people if they want to go forward with the project. Anne suggested that we involve people from past vestries who have participated in the planning. Mark said that this would be an opportunity to ask parishioners what they believe most needs to be done. Frank said that we should ask if people think the cost is worthwhile, and Anne added that if parishioners do not want to spend the money, we should find out their reasons. Steve noted that we need to include a meeting for the 8:00 worshippers. Candice suggested that the meeting be combined with a potluck.
Pastor Orr summarized the goals of the meeting as 1. to get the word out, 2. to test parish interest and invite comments, and 3. to give the vestry an opportunity to highlight the reasons to make the church more accessible.
To prepare for the meeting the vestry needs to brush up on the project plans. The parish meeting will be the main focus of the August vestry meeting.

Closing
Following prayer, the meeting closed at 8:45 PM. There will be no July meeting. The vestry will reconvene on August 20th.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis, Clerk of the Vestry

Approved, August 20, 2012

Announcements for August 19

• Vestry Meeting
  The vestry meets Monday, August 20, beginning at 7:00 p.m.
   
• Blessing of the Backpacks
  Students of all ages are invited to bring their backpacks, book bags or brief cases next Sunday, August 26. During the 10:00 a.m. liturgy, we will offer special prayers of blessing and intercession for the new school year.
   
• Attend Diocesan Convention
  The 175th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago takes place this year November 16-17 at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center. More information is available on the diocesan website. Everyone is invited to attend; you may register on-line. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s please speak to the Rector.
   
• Reflecting on General Convention
  Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has issued a message to the church following General Convention this summer. Read it here. A summary of actions from General Convention is available here.
   
• Wanna Have Fun?
  Join a Bowling League The bowling season starts soon. Look for flyers in the undercroft describing this every other Sunday bowling league. For more information, see Gale Michael.
   
• Audition for Grande Prairie Singers
  Would you like to join the chorus for its exciting 2012-13 season? Auditions will be held Saturday, August 25. Call 708-481-8684 for an appointment time.
   
• Children’s Choral Workshop Here!
  The Grande Prairie Choral Arts Children’s Choral Workshop will meet this fall here at St. John’s. Open to all students in first through fourth grades, the sessions meet on Tuesday afternoons. For more information, visit www.grandeprairiechoral.org or call 708-481-8684.
   
• Medication Take-Back Program
  Thursday, August 30, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Bloom Township Senior Services, 425 S. Halsted, Chicago Heights. Citizens may drop off medications, vitamins, medicated liquids and ointments, inhalers, glass thermometers, and medical devices containing mercury. Unacceptable take-back items include narcotic medications, biohazardous materials, sharps and needles.
   
• Infant Jesus of Prague Blockparty
  Friends and neighbors are invited to this end of the summer party. August 25, 4:30 – 10:00 p.m.