St. John’s Jubilation – September 8
St. John’s annual fall ministry fair and Sunday School registration takes place following the 10:00 a.m. service next Sunday, September 8.
Reunion with the Diocese of Quincy
The reunion of the Episcopal Dioceses of Chicago and Quincy will become effective this Sunday, September 1. The united Diocese will be known as the Diocese of Chicago. The geographic area that had been the Diocese of Quincy will become the Peoria Deanery within the Diocese of Chicago. Read more here.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
2013-2014 Parish Calendar
The calendar of this year’s parish activities is now available. It has been distributed via e-mail and paper copies are available on the information tables.
New Freezer
St. John’s has a new kitchen freezer. Thank you to the Episcopal Church Women for funding the purchase of the freezer. And thank you to Shirley Reilly for her work researching and purchasing it.
Sign Up to Attend the Diocesan Block Party
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. If you would like to attend, please sign up in the church or undercroft. We will try to coordinate transportation.
Parish Office Schedule
The parish office will be closed Labor Day, September 2. Beginning Tuesday, September 3, winter hours will resume. The office will be open daily, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Reflection for September 1
I have been nourished by hundreds of Eucharists. Deep down, where I don't usually notice it, they have fed my soul in a steady, sustaining way. Sometimes they are so rich my heart longs to prostrate itself before the altar in sheer awe and adoration. At other times I practically keel over with boredom. But each celebration is a mysterious source of life and strength, and I cannot explain why that is and how it happens.
All I know is that without this ritual I am diminished. Without it I am not as well nourished, not as steady and strong of soul. It is my mainstay in a very basic way, and I hope all future generations know it as I have. Pray God it will be so (Laurie Gudim, “Take and eat,” posted on Episcopal Cafe).
All I know is that without this ritual I am diminished. Without it I am not as well nourished, not as steady and strong of soul. It is my mainstay in a very basic way, and I hope all future generations know it as I have. Pray God it will be so (Laurie Gudim, “Take and eat,” posted on Episcopal Cafe).
Friday, August 23, 2013
Announcements for August 25
Blessing of the Backpacks
This Sunday Students of all ages are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, August 25. We will bless the backpacks and offer prayers for the new school year.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
2013-2014 Parish Calendar
The calendar of this year’s parish activities is now available. It will be distributed via e-mail and paper copies are available on the information tables.
Call for Delegates to Diocesan Convention
The 176th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago will be held at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, November 22-23. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s, please speak to the Rector by September 8. More information is available here.
St. John’s Jubilation – September 8
St. John’s annual fall ministry fair and Sunday School registration takes place following the 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, September 8.
Sign Up to Attend the Diocesan Block Party
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. If you would like to attend, please sign up in the church or undercroft. We will try to coordinate transportation.
This Sunday Students of all ages are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, August 25. We will bless the backpacks and offer prayers for the new school year.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
2013-2014 Parish Calendar
The calendar of this year’s parish activities is now available. It will be distributed via e-mail and paper copies are available on the information tables.
Call for Delegates to Diocesan Convention
The 176th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago will be held at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, November 22-23. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s, please speak to the Rector by September 8. More information is available here.
St. John’s Jubilation – September 8
St. John’s annual fall ministry fair and Sunday School registration takes place following the 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, September 8.
Sign Up to Attend the Diocesan Block Party
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. If you would like to attend, please sign up in the church or undercroft. We will try to coordinate transportation.
Reflection for August 25
I always had a dream that when I am asked to give an accounting of my life to a high court, it will go like this: “So, empty your pockets. What have you got left of your life? Any dreams that were unfulfilled? Any unused talent that we gave you when you were born that you still have left? Any unsaid compliments or bits of love that you haven't spread around?” And I will answer, “I’ve nothing to return. I spent everything you gave me. I'm as naked as the day I was born.” (Erma Bombeck, Forever, Erma)
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Minutes of the Vestry Meeting - June 17, 2013
Formation
Evening Prayer and Thanksgivings & Prayer Requests
The vestry assembled in the church for evening prayer at 7:00 PM followed by offered prayers of thanksgiving and intercession.
Attendance
Present at the meeting were: the rector, Kristin Orr; the senior warden, Audrey Ongman; vestry members Candice Barrera, Bob Berner, Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, Mark Moxley, Patti Pohrte, and Jim Whitfield; the treasurer, Debbi Huggett; and the clerk, Susan Marquis. The junior warden, Bill Bestow, and vestry members Greg Lawrence and Gale Michael were absent.
Parish Stewardship
Approval of Minutes from the May Meeting
Pastor Orr noticed two errors in the minutes. First, the vestry met in the undercroft for evening prayer rather than in the church. Second, The treasurer’s report showed a budget shortfall rather than debt. Audrey Ongman moved that the minutes be approved as corrected, and Steve Hofer seconded that motion. The motion passed. [The clerk submitted a corrected copy of the minutes to the rector.]
Treasurer’s Report
Debbi Huggett reported that revenues are pacing ahead of expectations; although a drop-off is expected, as usual, during summer vacations. We have caught up with recent repair expenses. The insurance increase this year was due to a billing procedure rather than a significant yearly increase. That is, the insurance company bills 35% of the total in the first quarter. The bills for the remaining quarters will be lower.
Information
Rector’s Report
Pastor Orr reminded the vestry that she will be on vacation for three weeks from July 16 th through August 6th. . During that time the wardens and the office manager will be in charge. Chuck Hensel will serve as supply priest for all three Sundays.
The rector expressed gratitude to our Diocesan Convention delegates for their recent work on reunification with the Diocese of Quincy.
Work has begun on a new acolyte composite photo.
As of the first Sunday in July, the 7:40 AM Sunday Morning Prayer service will be cancelled.
There are two trees on the church property that need to be removed: an apple tree in the back yard of the rectory and an evergreen outside of the education wing on the street side. The rector will get estimates for the work.
Pastor Orr expressed thanks for the work of Audrey Ongman and Mary Agnes Long who lead the Wednesday morning bible study class. The class has been suspended for the summer but will resume in September.
Wardens’ Reports and/or Reports from Parish Organizations
There were no reports.
Upcoming Parish Events
The annual Community Ice Cream Social will be held on St. John’s south lawn on July 4th after the Flossmoor parade.
The annual Fall Jubilation and Ministry Fair will be held on September 8th.
Discussion and Decisions
Meeting with Barry Berg
On June 15th, Pastor Orr, Patti Pohrte, and Cyndie Knoll met with former parishioners Barry Berg and his sister, Patty Berg. They discussed repairs and changes to the outdoor altar area, which involves projects such as replacing stones that have degraded and possibly making plans to triple the columbarium space. The Bergs were involved in the original work and were grateful that we asked for their opinions just as we are grateful for their interest and input. Barry, who is an architect, will do some sketching and get back to us.
Accessibility
The Accessibility Sub-Committee has not met in the past month, although members have done some work independently. They hope to put together some information for the August vestry meeting. Steve Hofer noted that recently he had been in a church with nicer and newer chair lifts, which seemed to work better than what we have.
Outreach
Pastor Orr asked for reports from the vestry on what ideas about new outreach projects have emerged from vestry conversations with parishioners. No one had any input. This issue will be discussed again at the August meeting.
Closing
As ever, there will be no July vestry meeting. The treasurer will send out the June financial report by e-mail. The next meeting is on August 19th.
After prayer, the meeting ended at 8:00 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis
Clerk of the Vestry
Approved: August 19, 2013
Evening Prayer and Thanksgivings & Prayer Requests
The vestry assembled in the church for evening prayer at 7:00 PM followed by offered prayers of thanksgiving and intercession.
Attendance
Present at the meeting were: the rector, Kristin Orr; the senior warden, Audrey Ongman; vestry members Candice Barrera, Bob Berner, Anne Edwards, Steve Hofer, Mark Moxley, Patti Pohrte, and Jim Whitfield; the treasurer, Debbi Huggett; and the clerk, Susan Marquis. The junior warden, Bill Bestow, and vestry members Greg Lawrence and Gale Michael were absent.
Parish Stewardship
Approval of Minutes from the May Meeting
Pastor Orr noticed two errors in the minutes. First, the vestry met in the undercroft for evening prayer rather than in the church. Second, The treasurer’s report showed a budget shortfall rather than debt. Audrey Ongman moved that the minutes be approved as corrected, and Steve Hofer seconded that motion. The motion passed. [The clerk submitted a corrected copy of the minutes to the rector.]
Treasurer’s Report
Debbi Huggett reported that revenues are pacing ahead of expectations; although a drop-off is expected, as usual, during summer vacations. We have caught up with recent repair expenses. The insurance increase this year was due to a billing procedure rather than a significant yearly increase. That is, the insurance company bills 35% of the total in the first quarter. The bills for the remaining quarters will be lower.
Information
Rector’s Report
Pastor Orr reminded the vestry that she will be on vacation for three weeks from July 16 th through August 6th. . During that time the wardens and the office manager will be in charge. Chuck Hensel will serve as supply priest for all three Sundays.
The rector expressed gratitude to our Diocesan Convention delegates for their recent work on reunification with the Diocese of Quincy.
Work has begun on a new acolyte composite photo.
As of the first Sunday in July, the 7:40 AM Sunday Morning Prayer service will be cancelled.
There are two trees on the church property that need to be removed: an apple tree in the back yard of the rectory and an evergreen outside of the education wing on the street side. The rector will get estimates for the work.
Pastor Orr expressed thanks for the work of Audrey Ongman and Mary Agnes Long who lead the Wednesday morning bible study class. The class has been suspended for the summer but will resume in September.
Wardens’ Reports and/or Reports from Parish Organizations
There were no reports.
Upcoming Parish Events
The annual Community Ice Cream Social will be held on St. John’s south lawn on July 4th after the Flossmoor parade.
The annual Fall Jubilation and Ministry Fair will be held on September 8th.
Discussion and Decisions
Meeting with Barry Berg
On June 15th, Pastor Orr, Patti Pohrte, and Cyndie Knoll met with former parishioners Barry Berg and his sister, Patty Berg. They discussed repairs and changes to the outdoor altar area, which involves projects such as replacing stones that have degraded and possibly making plans to triple the columbarium space. The Bergs were involved in the original work and were grateful that we asked for their opinions just as we are grateful for their interest and input. Barry, who is an architect, will do some sketching and get back to us.
Accessibility
The Accessibility Sub-Committee has not met in the past month, although members have done some work independently. They hope to put together some information for the August vestry meeting. Steve Hofer noted that recently he had been in a church with nicer and newer chair lifts, which seemed to work better than what we have.
Outreach
Pastor Orr asked for reports from the vestry on what ideas about new outreach projects have emerged from vestry conversations with parishioners. No one had any input. This issue will be discussed again at the August meeting.
Closing
As ever, there will be no July vestry meeting. The treasurer will send out the June financial report by e-mail. The next meeting is on August 19th.
After prayer, the meeting ended at 8:00 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis
Clerk of the Vestry
Approved: August 19, 2013
Friday, August 16, 2013
Announcements for August 18
Vestry MeetingThe vestry meets Monday, September 19, beginning with Evening Prayer at 7:00 p.m. in the church.
Blessing of the Backpacks Next Sunday
All students are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service next Sunday, August 25. We will bless the backpacks and offer prayers for the new school year.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
Call for Delegates to Diocesan Convention
The 176th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago will be held at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, November 22-23. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s, please speak to the Rector by September 8. More information is available here.
St. John’s Jubilation – September 8
St. John’s annual fall ministry fair and Sunday School registration takes place following the 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, September 8.
Rock the Block!
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. It would be great to have a group from St. John’s participate.
Joining the Episcopal Church
Bishop Lee will be visiting St. John’s on September 29. This provides the opportunity for adults who wish to officially join the Episcopal Church to do so through Confirmation or Reception. If you are interested, please speak to the Rector as soon as possible.
Blessing of the Backpacks Next Sunday
All students are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service next Sunday, August 25. We will bless the backpacks and offer prayers for the new school year.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
Call for Delegates to Diocesan Convention
The 176th Annual Convention of the Diocese of Chicago will be held at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, November 22-23. If you are interested in serving as a delegate from St. John’s, please speak to the Rector by September 8. More information is available here.
St. John’s Jubilation – September 8
St. John’s annual fall ministry fair and Sunday School registration takes place following the 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, September 8.
Rock the Block!
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. It would be great to have a group from St. John’s participate.
Joining the Episcopal Church
Bishop Lee will be visiting St. John’s on September 29. This provides the opportunity for adults who wish to officially join the Episcopal Church to do so through Confirmation or Reception. If you are interested, please speak to the Rector as soon as possible.
Reflection for August 18
Vicars
Most of us church people know the word “vicar”; some even know it’s derived from a Latin word meaning “substitute.” No need to go into the ecclesiastical technicalities here. It’s just that the word came to mind as I read a recent piece in the newspaper on the enjoyment of other peoples’ dogs, one of my own guilty pleasures….
While I no longer share my life and home with a dog, I recall the many times the inconvenience of walking a canine companion began in begrudging resentment but culminated in laughter, conversation and joy shared among old friends or taken up with new acquaintances along the way.
I’ve come to appreciate the mediating ministry of these four-legged vicars who work the neighborhood like we priests once ministered to anyone and everyone within the village parish bounds. These parsons with paws have frequently fulfilled the role of the host whose gracious introduction of strangers helps us over that awkward threshold into personal relationship, or of the pastor whose brief encounter in a day’s rounds could heal a hurting heart, or change a life. Except in the rare instance of malice or menace, an encounter with a dog, even in passing, can evoke a smile in me and, in turn, shift my mood into the gears of joy and gratitude.
That’s efficacious spiritual direction. And it’s free. Just go for a walk.
(Sam Portaro, “Vicars,” Credo Resources, August 11, 2013)
Most of us church people know the word “vicar”; some even know it’s derived from a Latin word meaning “substitute.” No need to go into the ecclesiastical technicalities here. It’s just that the word came to mind as I read a recent piece in the newspaper on the enjoyment of other peoples’ dogs, one of my own guilty pleasures….
While I no longer share my life and home with a dog, I recall the many times the inconvenience of walking a canine companion began in begrudging resentment but culminated in laughter, conversation and joy shared among old friends or taken up with new acquaintances along the way.
I’ve come to appreciate the mediating ministry of these four-legged vicars who work the neighborhood like we priests once ministered to anyone and everyone within the village parish bounds. These parsons with paws have frequently fulfilled the role of the host whose gracious introduction of strangers helps us over that awkward threshold into personal relationship, or of the pastor whose brief encounter in a day’s rounds could heal a hurting heart, or change a life. Except in the rare instance of malice or menace, an encounter with a dog, even in passing, can evoke a smile in me and, in turn, shift my mood into the gears of joy and gratitude.
That’s efficacious spiritual direction. And it’s free. Just go for a walk.
(Sam Portaro, “Vicars,” Credo Resources, August 11, 2013)
Friday, August 9, 2013
Announcements for August 11
Rock the Block!
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. It would be great to have a group from St. John’s participate.
Joining the Episcopal Church
Bishop Lee will be visiting St. John’s on September 29. This provides the opportunity for adults who wish to officially join the Episcopal Church to do so through Confirmation or Reception. If you are interested please speak to the Rector as soon as possible.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
The newly-renovated St. James Commons is now open for all to enjoy and on September 15 from 3 – 6 p.m. they’re throwing a big block party to celebrate. There will be great music, food trucks, fun for kids and tours of the new diocesan center. Look for light blue flyers with more information. It would be great to have a group from St. John’s participate.
Joining the Episcopal Church
Bishop Lee will be visiting St. John’s on September 29. This provides the opportunity for adults who wish to officially join the Episcopal Church to do so through Confirmation or Reception. If you are interested please speak to the Rector as soon as possible.
What Did You Do This Summer?
Everyone, young and old, is invited to bring in a photo or flyer or (pinnable) memento from your summer activities and pin it on the bulletin board in the undercroft. Whether you went to camp or spent time on long-standing interests; had a staycation or an overseas adventure; planted a garden; went to the movies; read War and Peace; or spent time with friends and family; please share your experiences.
Reflection for August 11
The Transfiguration of Our Lord (August 6)
O God, who on the holy mount revealed to chosen witnesses your well-beloved Son, wonderfully transfigured, in raiment white and glistening: Mercifully grant that we, being delivered from the disquietude of this world, may by faith behold the King in his beauty; who with you, O Father, and you, O Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
O God, who on the holy mount revealed to chosen witnesses your well-beloved Son, wonderfully transfigured, in raiment white and glistening: Mercifully grant that we, being delivered from the disquietude of this world, may by faith behold the King in his beauty; who with you, O Father, and you, O Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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