Blessing of the Animals: This Sunday, October 2
All pets and their human companions are invited to the blessing of the animals this Sunday, October 2, beginning at 4:30 PM at the outdoor altar. Bring a photo if you’d prefer a proxy blessing. Toy animals are also welcome. As usual, we will pray for dear pets who have died. The traditional contests, including the highly coveted Owner-Pet Look Alike Contest, will also be offered.
Best Buddies Pet Pantry Volunteer Day Rescheduled
Approximately every six weeks, volunteers from St. John’s gather to package dog food, dog treats, or cat food for distribution through the Best Buddies Pet Pantry. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the work day scheduled for this Saturday, October 1, has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 15.
United Thank Offering Information
The United Thank Offering was begun in 1889 by the Women’s Auxiliary to the Board of Mission of the Episcopal Church. Every penny contributed goes to grants that support the mission and outreach projects of the church. Handouts with more information about UTO are located on the information tables. We will organize an “ingathering” of St. John’s contributions for sometime in early November so that our contributions can be offered and combined with others presented at Diocesan Convention.
Visit the Holy Land with Bishop Lee
Bishop Jeffrey Lee and the Very Rev. Dominic Barrington, Dean of St. James Cathedral, will lead a pilgrimage to the Holy Land May 9-20, 2017. Participation in the trip is open; a deposit is due by October 31. Read more HERE.
Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group will meet this Monday, October 3, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.
Vegetable Abundance
No delivery this week. Still a few jalapenos from last week.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Reflection for October 2
St. Francis’ Day (October 4)
Of all the saint, Francis is the most popular and admired, but probably the least imitated… (Holy Women, Holy Men).
Of all the saint, Francis is the most popular and admired, but probably the least imitated… (Holy Women, Holy Men).
Friday, September 23, 2016
Announcements for September 25
Vestry Meeting Synopsis
The Vestry met on Monday, Sept 19. We discussed the success of the Jubilation on Sept. 11th, and gave thanks for the hard work of all of the people involved. Work on the columbarium project continues. Vestry members and other parishioners have provided names of masonry contractors. Despite contacting quite a few companies, we have yet to find the right company for the project.
The Vestry approved delegates and alternates for the Diocesan convention to be held on Nov. 18 & 19 at the Westin Lombard hotel. Those who have been to the Convention before said that it was a beautiful experience; especially the Holy Eucharist on Saturday. The Holy Eucharist is open to all, so please consider attending. –Anne Edwards, Senior Warden
Sunday School Classes Begin This Sunday, September 25
Sunday School classes begin this Sunday. The PreK-Grade 1 class meets in the Atrium. The Grade 2-6 class meets in the Education wing; the Grades 7 & 8 class in the Small Conference Room. The Rector’s adult Bible study class meets in the Education wing. Classes begin at 9 AM.
Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group will meet Monday, October 3, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.
Run to Help Fight Homelessness
It's not too late to support the HUB 5k run/walk to benefit homelessness. Run/walk Saturday 9/24 at Bicentennial Park in Olympia Fields. Start time is 9 am with packet pickup opening at 7:30 am. Proceeds benefit four community organizations who serve the homeless: Ford Heights Community Center, Respond Now, South Suburban PADS and Together We Cope. For more information, to register or volunteer, go to http://bit.ly/2bnH64g.
PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter)
It's that time of the month... October is the first month of the PADS season, which runs through April. St. John's is committed to staffing a portion of the 4th Friday/Saturday of each month. I am looking for people willing to serve and be subs, especially around the holidays. If you did not sign up during the Jubilation, and would be interested in supporting this very important ministry, please contact Margi Strombeck. No experience required...A HUGE thank you to those who have signed up already!
Blessing of the Animals
This year St. John’s partners with Faith Lutheran and First Presbyterian in Homewood to bless the pets who bring such blessings into our lives. Sunday, October 2, beginning at 4:30 PM at St. John’s Outdoor Altar.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Green cabbage, beets, sweet potatoes, and jalapeno peppers.
The Vestry met on Monday, Sept 19. We discussed the success of the Jubilation on Sept. 11th, and gave thanks for the hard work of all of the people involved. Work on the columbarium project continues. Vestry members and other parishioners have provided names of masonry contractors. Despite contacting quite a few companies, we have yet to find the right company for the project.
The Vestry approved delegates and alternates for the Diocesan convention to be held on Nov. 18 & 19 at the Westin Lombard hotel. Those who have been to the Convention before said that it was a beautiful experience; especially the Holy Eucharist on Saturday. The Holy Eucharist is open to all, so please consider attending. –Anne Edwards, Senior Warden
Sunday School Classes Begin This Sunday, September 25
Sunday School classes begin this Sunday. The PreK-Grade 1 class meets in the Atrium. The Grade 2-6 class meets in the Education wing; the Grades 7 & 8 class in the Small Conference Room. The Rector’s adult Bible study class meets in the Education wing. Classes begin at 9 AM.
Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group will meet Monday, October 3, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.
Run to Help Fight Homelessness
It's not too late to support the HUB 5k run/walk to benefit homelessness. Run/walk Saturday 9/24 at Bicentennial Park in Olympia Fields. Start time is 9 am with packet pickup opening at 7:30 am. Proceeds benefit four community organizations who serve the homeless: Ford Heights Community Center, Respond Now, South Suburban PADS and Together We Cope. For more information, to register or volunteer, go to http://bit.ly/2bnH64g.
PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter)
It's that time of the month... October is the first month of the PADS season, which runs through April. St. John's is committed to staffing a portion of the 4th Friday/Saturday of each month. I am looking for people willing to serve and be subs, especially around the holidays. If you did not sign up during the Jubilation, and would be interested in supporting this very important ministry, please contact Margi Strombeck. No experience required...A HUGE thank you to those who have signed up already!
Blessing of the Animals
This year St. John’s partners with Faith Lutheran and First Presbyterian in Homewood to bless the pets who bring such blessings into our lives. Sunday, October 2, beginning at 4:30 PM at St. John’s Outdoor Altar.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Green cabbage, beets, sweet potatoes, and jalapeno peppers.
Reflection for September 25
A Word to the Church for the World
Greetings from Detroit, a city determined to be revived. Greetings also from the city of Flint, where we are reminded that the gift of water has for many of our brothers and sisters become contaminated.
Here we have been exhorted to set our sights beyond ourselves and to minister to the several nations where we serve and the wider world.
We lament the stark joylessness that marks our present time. We decry angry political rhetoric which rages while fissures widen within society along racial, economic, educational, religious, cultural and generational lines. We refuse to look away as poverty, cruelty and war force families to become migrants enduring statelessness and demonization. We renounce the gun violence and drug addiction that steal lives and crush souls while others succumb to fear and cynicism, abandoning any sense of neighborliness.
Yet, in all this, “we do not despair” (2 Cor. 4:8.). We remember that God in Christ entered our earthly neighborhood during a time of political volatility and economic inequality. To this current crisis we bring our faith in Jesus. By God’s grace, we choose to see in this moment an urgent opportunity to follow Jesus into our fractured neighborhoods, the nation and the world.
Every member of the church has been “called for a time such as this.” (Esther 4:14) Let prophets tell the truth in love. Let reconcilers move boldly into places of division and disagreement. Let evangelists inspire us to tell the story of Jesus in new and compelling ways. Let leaders lead with courage and joy.
In the hope of the Resurrection let us all pray for God to work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish God’s purposes on earth (House of Bishops, The Episcopal Church, September 20).
Greetings from Detroit, a city determined to be revived. Greetings also from the city of Flint, where we are reminded that the gift of water has for many of our brothers and sisters become contaminated.
Here we have been exhorted to set our sights beyond ourselves and to minister to the several nations where we serve and the wider world.
We lament the stark joylessness that marks our present time. We decry angry political rhetoric which rages while fissures widen within society along racial, economic, educational, religious, cultural and generational lines. We refuse to look away as poverty, cruelty and war force families to become migrants enduring statelessness and demonization. We renounce the gun violence and drug addiction that steal lives and crush souls while others succumb to fear and cynicism, abandoning any sense of neighborliness.
Yet, in all this, “we do not despair” (2 Cor. 4:8.). We remember that God in Christ entered our earthly neighborhood during a time of political volatility and economic inequality. To this current crisis we bring our faith in Jesus. By God’s grace, we choose to see in this moment an urgent opportunity to follow Jesus into our fractured neighborhoods, the nation and the world.
Every member of the church has been “called for a time such as this.” (Esther 4:14) Let prophets tell the truth in love. Let reconcilers move boldly into places of division and disagreement. Let evangelists inspire us to tell the story of Jesus in new and compelling ways. Let leaders lead with courage and joy.
In the hope of the Resurrection let us all pray for God to work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish God’s purposes on earth (House of Bishops, The Episcopal Church, September 20).
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Minutes of the Vestry Meeting - August 15, 2016
Formation
Evening Prayer and Thanksgiving & Prayer Requests
The vestry met in the church at 7:00 PM for Evening Prayer and then reconvened in the undercroft meeting room where everyone offered prayers of intercession and thanksgiving.
Attendance
Present: the rector Kristin Orr; the senior warden Anne Edwards; the junior warden Steve Hofer; vestry members Bob Burgwald, Rob Carrier, Nichole Dailor, Ted Stone, Cynthia Turnquest and Zoltan Sziky; the treasurer Debbi Huggett; and the clerk Susan Marquis Absent: vestry members Alice Creason, Randy Oyster, and Hans Zigmund
Parish Stewardship
Minutes
Anne Edwards moved to accept the vestry minutes from June, and Nichole Dailor seconded. The motion was approved.
Treasurer’s Report
Because there was no vestry meeting in July to approve the June report, the treasurer presented financial reports from both June and July.
In June and continuing into July, collections were off-pace. Pledge income, however, is difficult to divide by the month since some people prepay for the entire year, while others pay at the end of the year. Rob Carrier moved to accept the June treasurer’s report as presented, and Cynthia Turnquest seconded. The motion passed.
In July, the church made about $350 from the Ice Cream Social due to contributions from parishioners. Without the approximately $700 contributed, the event would have lost money. Savings in July were the result of lower-than-expected natural gas usage as well as some salary savings due to having no office manager. Cynthia Turnquest moved to accept the July report, and Zoltan Sziky seconded. The motion then was approved.  
Rector’s Discretionary Report
Pastor Orr distributed a report of the Rector’s Discretionary Account for the second quarter of 2016. The report showed income from the approved parish budget as well as from contributions from parishioners. After a motion to accept the report from Steve Hofer and a second from Nichole Dailor, the motion was approved.
Rector’s Report
—The church has placed help wanted notices for the office manager position on the diocesan website and on a Moms and Dads of Homewood-Flossmoor Facebook page. There have been four applicants whom the rector and senior warden are interviewing. Pastor Orr hopes to have the position filled by the beginning of September. In the meantime, former office manager Tracie Moxley has been hired for a few hours weekly to post pledge and other contributions.
—Jack Voigt again paid for a thorough annual cleaning of the kitchen.
—Pastor Orr thanked Bill Moser, Donna Blackburn, Cyndie Knoll, and Alison Deniston for their help covering the office during her vacation. She also thanked Steve Hofer, Bill Bestow, Debbi Huggett, Harold Keene, and Donna Blackburn for being on-call for emergencies during that time.
—The bracket for the church sign on Flossmoor Road and Leavitt Avenue recently arrived. A volunteer is needed to do the restoration work on the sign. Rob Carrier offered to look at it.
—Bishop Lee has had to reduce the diocesan staff due to the economy. Investment income is down, and parish pledges have gone down as well. The diocese had been depleting capital to cover deficit budgets, but without an obvious change coming in income, the bishop has decided that the responsible path is to reduce the diocesan budget.
Wardens’ Reports and Reports from Other Parish Organizations
Steve Hofer reported that his St. John’s history project is moving along nicely. He further reported, in his role as landscape godparent, that Lynn Ruschhaupt has planted hostas north of the church and that the new plantings at the south end of the church are doing well.
Upcoming Parish Events
—Pastor Orr handed out a draft of a calendar of parish events for the August 2016 - July 2017 year. Cynthia Turnquest volunteered to print a poster-size copy of the calendar for easel display, and Pastor Orr will distribute copies to parishioners via e-mail in the next “e-vangelist” and will leave paper copies on the information tables.
—August 21st at the 10:00 AM service - blessing of the backpacks
—September 11th at coffee hour - Jubilation ministry fair
Discussion and Decisions
Columbarium Project
Pastor Orr hired landscape architect Scott Mehaffey to draw up building plans for the benches. The columbarium sub-committee, consisting of the rector, Rob Carrier, Ted Stone, Cynthia Turnquest, and Anne Edwards, deferred the decision on the wood bench, but they did choose a stone for the benches and an aggregate stone for the walkway. Mark Moxley has been very helpful regarding supplies and has the stone order ready to submit. Best Brick in Homewood bid on the project. Pastor Orr is trying to get more bids on the concrete and stone mason work and asked the vestry to send her referrals.
Stewardship
The ministry marketing subcommittee (Alice Creason, Nichole Dailor, Anne Edwards, and Steve Hofer with help from Cynthia Turnquest) will work on a display for the undercroft that portrays the life of the parish. This will change monthly and will be in place by the Jubilation. The vestry godparents of the various ministries will be in charge of overseeing the displays according to the following schedule:
September - acolytes (Nichole Dailor)
October - PADS (Ted Stone)
November - choir (Hans Zigmund)
December - open for various holiday ministries
January - Sunday school (Cynthia Turnquest)
February - youth group (Alice Creason)
March - men’s group (Randy Oyster)
April - Altar Guild (Bob Burgwald)
May - food garden (Zoltan Sziky)
June - landscaping (Steve Hofer)
July - Daughters of the King (Rob Carrier)
August - catch-all (Nichole Dailor)
The church will send out e-blasts as separate electronic mailings of event announcements and posters. Event coordinators can contact Cynthia Turnquest, who will design announcements, and then the rector will send them out to parishioners as colorful event PDFs. The e-blasts also will be used to announce ministry opportunities for the month, including volunteer and donation requests.
Closing
The meeting ended at 9:10 PM. The next vestry meeting is scheduled for September 19th.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis
Clerk of the Vestry
Approved: September 19, 2016
Evening Prayer and Thanksgiving & Prayer Requests
The vestry met in the church at 7:00 PM for Evening Prayer and then reconvened in the undercroft meeting room where everyone offered prayers of intercession and thanksgiving.
Attendance
Present: the rector Kristin Orr; the senior warden Anne Edwards; the junior warden Steve Hofer; vestry members Bob Burgwald, Rob Carrier, Nichole Dailor, Ted Stone, Cynthia Turnquest and Zoltan Sziky; the treasurer Debbi Huggett; and the clerk Susan Marquis Absent: vestry members Alice Creason, Randy Oyster, and Hans Zigmund
Parish Stewardship
Minutes
Anne Edwards moved to accept the vestry minutes from June, and Nichole Dailor seconded. The motion was approved.
Treasurer’s Report
Because there was no vestry meeting in July to approve the June report, the treasurer presented financial reports from both June and July.
In June and continuing into July, collections were off-pace. Pledge income, however, is difficult to divide by the month since some people prepay for the entire year, while others pay at the end of the year. Rob Carrier moved to accept the June treasurer’s report as presented, and Cynthia Turnquest seconded. The motion passed.
In July, the church made about $350 from the Ice Cream Social due to contributions from parishioners. Without the approximately $700 contributed, the event would have lost money. Savings in July were the result of lower-than-expected natural gas usage as well as some salary savings due to having no office manager. Cynthia Turnquest moved to accept the July report, and Zoltan Sziky seconded. The motion then was approved.  
Rector’s Discretionary Report
Pastor Orr distributed a report of the Rector’s Discretionary Account for the second quarter of 2016. The report showed income from the approved parish budget as well as from contributions from parishioners. After a motion to accept the report from Steve Hofer and a second from Nichole Dailor, the motion was approved.
Rector’s Report
—The church has placed help wanted notices for the office manager position on the diocesan website and on a Moms and Dads of Homewood-Flossmoor Facebook page. There have been four applicants whom the rector and senior warden are interviewing. Pastor Orr hopes to have the position filled by the beginning of September. In the meantime, former office manager Tracie Moxley has been hired for a few hours weekly to post pledge and other contributions.
—Jack Voigt again paid for a thorough annual cleaning of the kitchen.
—Pastor Orr thanked Bill Moser, Donna Blackburn, Cyndie Knoll, and Alison Deniston for their help covering the office during her vacation. She also thanked Steve Hofer, Bill Bestow, Debbi Huggett, Harold Keene, and Donna Blackburn for being on-call for emergencies during that time.
—The bracket for the church sign on Flossmoor Road and Leavitt Avenue recently arrived. A volunteer is needed to do the restoration work on the sign. Rob Carrier offered to look at it.
—Bishop Lee has had to reduce the diocesan staff due to the economy. Investment income is down, and parish pledges have gone down as well. The diocese had been depleting capital to cover deficit budgets, but without an obvious change coming in income, the bishop has decided that the responsible path is to reduce the diocesan budget.
Wardens’ Reports and Reports from Other Parish Organizations
Steve Hofer reported that his St. John’s history project is moving along nicely. He further reported, in his role as landscape godparent, that Lynn Ruschhaupt has planted hostas north of the church and that the new plantings at the south end of the church are doing well.
Upcoming Parish Events
—Pastor Orr handed out a draft of a calendar of parish events for the August 2016 - July 2017 year. Cynthia Turnquest volunteered to print a poster-size copy of the calendar for easel display, and Pastor Orr will distribute copies to parishioners via e-mail in the next “e-vangelist” and will leave paper copies on the information tables.
—August 21st at the 10:00 AM service - blessing of the backpacks
—September 11th at coffee hour - Jubilation ministry fair
Discussion and Decisions
Columbarium Project
Pastor Orr hired landscape architect Scott Mehaffey to draw up building plans for the benches. The columbarium sub-committee, consisting of the rector, Rob Carrier, Ted Stone, Cynthia Turnquest, and Anne Edwards, deferred the decision on the wood bench, but they did choose a stone for the benches and an aggregate stone for the walkway. Mark Moxley has been very helpful regarding supplies and has the stone order ready to submit. Best Brick in Homewood bid on the project. Pastor Orr is trying to get more bids on the concrete and stone mason work and asked the vestry to send her referrals.
Stewardship
The ministry marketing subcommittee (Alice Creason, Nichole Dailor, Anne Edwards, and Steve Hofer with help from Cynthia Turnquest) will work on a display for the undercroft that portrays the life of the parish. This will change monthly and will be in place by the Jubilation. The vestry godparents of the various ministries will be in charge of overseeing the displays according to the following schedule:
September - acolytes (Nichole Dailor)
October - PADS (Ted Stone)
November - choir (Hans Zigmund)
December - open for various holiday ministries
January - Sunday school (Cynthia Turnquest)
February - youth group (Alice Creason)
March - men’s group (Randy Oyster)
April - Altar Guild (Bob Burgwald)
May - food garden (Zoltan Sziky)
June - landscaping (Steve Hofer)
July - Daughters of the King (Rob Carrier)
August - catch-all (Nichole Dailor)
The church will send out e-blasts as separate electronic mailings of event announcements and posters. Event coordinators can contact Cynthia Turnquest, who will design announcements, and then the rector will send them out to parishioners as colorful event PDFs. The e-blasts also will be used to announce ministry opportunities for the month, including volunteer and donation requests.
Closing
The meeting ended at 9:10 PM. The next vestry meeting is scheduled for September 19th.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Marquis
Clerk of the Vestry
Approved: September 19, 2016
Friday, September 16, 2016
Announcements for September 18
Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets Monday, September 19, beginning in the church at 7:00 PM.
Calling All Parish Kids: Help Paint the Window
This Sunday, September 18, children of all ages are invited to help paint a new window mural in the atrium. Meet in the atrium (near the lift) during the 9:00 AM Sunday School hour. Regular Sunday School classes begin next week.
Practicing Our Faith Book Club
This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Jabbok by Kee Sloan, a novel about a friendship between a white boy and an African-American preacher in rural Mississippi. The book club will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss Jabbok. New members are always welcome.
Adult Sunday School Begins Next Week
The Rector’s Sunday School class for adults begins next week, September 25, at 9:00 AM in the Education Wing.
Organist Michael Soto in Concert
Michael will be performing with the Southwest Symphony in an upcoming concert. He’ll be playing Handel’s Concerto for Organ HWV 295, “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale,” and Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 for organ and orchestra. The concert is on Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W College Drive, Palos Heights. Information and tickets are available at www.southwestsymphony.com.
Jubilation Thank You’s
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Jubilation: to Cynthia Turnquest for decorating; to Cyndie Knoll and Loaves & Fishes for providing lunch; to all of the ministry leaders who provided displays and staffed tables; and to all of the people at St. John’s who, through fellowship, prayer and action, are the Body of Christ at St. John’s.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Green cabbage and tomatoes. (The tomatoes come from the garden of the Rev. Israel Anchan in Kankakee.)
The vestry meets Monday, September 19, beginning in the church at 7:00 PM.
Calling All Parish Kids: Help Paint the Window
This Sunday, September 18, children of all ages are invited to help paint a new window mural in the atrium. Meet in the atrium (near the lift) during the 9:00 AM Sunday School hour. Regular Sunday School classes begin next week.
Practicing Our Faith Book Club
This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Jabbok by Kee Sloan, a novel about a friendship between a white boy and an African-American preacher in rural Mississippi. The book club will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss Jabbok. New members are always welcome.
Adult Sunday School Begins Next Week
The Rector’s Sunday School class for adults begins next week, September 25, at 9:00 AM in the Education Wing.
Organist Michael Soto in Concert
Michael will be performing with the Southwest Symphony in an upcoming concert. He’ll be playing Handel’s Concerto for Organ HWV 295, “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale,” and Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 for organ and orchestra. The concert is on Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W College Drive, Palos Heights. Information and tickets are available at www.southwestsymphony.com.
Jubilation Thank You’s
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Jubilation: to Cynthia Turnquest for decorating; to Cyndie Knoll and Loaves & Fishes for providing lunch; to all of the ministry leaders who provided displays and staffed tables; and to all of the people at St. John’s who, through fellowship, prayer and action, are the Body of Christ at St. John’s.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Green cabbage and tomatoes. (The tomatoes come from the garden of the Rev. Israel Anchan in Kankakee.)
Reflection for September 18
Likeness
We have no idea what God looks like—so what can it meant that God creates us in God’s own image, in God’s likeness? Maybe it’s love that makes us like God (Br. Mark Brown, Society of Saint John the Evangelist, Brother, Give Us a Word.)
We have no idea what God looks like—so what can it meant that God creates us in God’s own image, in God’s likeness? Maybe it’s love that makes us like God (Br. Mark Brown, Society of Saint John the Evangelist, Brother, Give Us a Word.)
Friday, September 9, 2016
Announcements for September 11
Jubilation: This Sunday, September 11
St. John’s fall celebration of the people, activities and ministries of the parish will take place this Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 AM service. Lunch will be served. Catch up with fellow parishioners after the summer. Browse program and ministry opportunities and register for Sunday School classes.
Introducing New Office Manager: Betsy Sloan
Betsy has lived in Flossmoor for the past eight years with her husband, Dan and daughters Lucy (a senior at HF) and Eleanor (an 8th grader at Parker Junior high). She has spent most of her working life as an administrative assistant at various levels at DePaul University. She looks forward to getting to know and working with the parishioners of St. John’s.
Choir Returns This Sunday
Following their summer break, the choir returns to participation in the 10:00 AM service this Sunday.
Practicing Our Faith Book Club
This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Jabbok by Kee Sloan, a novel about a friendship between a white boy and an African-American preacher in rural Mississippi. The book club will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss Jabbok. New members are always welcome.
Organist Michael Soto in Concert
Michael will be performing with the Southwest Symphony in an upcoming concert. He’ll be playing Handel’s Concerto for Organ HWV 295, “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale,” and Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 for organ and orchestra. The concert is on Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W College Drive, Palos Heights. Information and tickets are available at www.southwestsymphony.com.
New Outreach Opportunity for Teens and Adults
Only have a little time to spare but you care about making a big difference? All hands, all minds, all ages invited to join in service. Look for St. John's new outreach ministry at this Sunday's Jubilation. We've listened to our high school teens and this is what they've told us: We are busy with academics, sports, clubs and jobs; the pressure can be intense. You also manage to carve out time for church and want to do good works. This last part makes you very special and--in today's world, sadly--a rarity. Our diocese has learned this the hard way, which has led to a significantly reduced diocesan youth program, including the elimination of decades-old programs like Happening. That's why St. John's wants to meet the challenge and support your commitment to our parish and your own spiritual growth. Here's the idea... each quarter we'll put forth at least one service project that parishioners of all ages and interests can join in. No regularly scheduled "meetings". Just projects and dates and details. You choose the ones you are able to do (and suggest your own ideas). We'll invite other Flossmoor churches to join us. Involve your friends, family, neighbors--whatever makes it fun and meaningful for you, and in the process, we'll help heal the world. God loves it when we do that.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Arugula, green and jalapeno peppers.
St. John’s fall celebration of the people, activities and ministries of the parish will take place this Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 AM service. Lunch will be served. Catch up with fellow parishioners after the summer. Browse program and ministry opportunities and register for Sunday School classes.
Introducing New Office Manager: Betsy Sloan
Betsy has lived in Flossmoor for the past eight years with her husband, Dan and daughters Lucy (a senior at HF) and Eleanor (an 8th grader at Parker Junior high). She has spent most of her working life as an administrative assistant at various levels at DePaul University. She looks forward to getting to know and working with the parishioners of St. John’s.
Choir Returns This Sunday
Following their summer break, the choir returns to participation in the 10:00 AM service this Sunday.
Practicing Our Faith Book Club
This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Jabbok by Kee Sloan, a novel about a friendship between a white boy and an African-American preacher in rural Mississippi. The book club will meet on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss Jabbok. New members are always welcome.
Organist Michael Soto in Concert
Michael will be performing with the Southwest Symphony in an upcoming concert. He’ll be playing Handel’s Concerto for Organ HWV 295, “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale,” and Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 for organ and orchestra. The concert is on Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W College Drive, Palos Heights. Information and tickets are available at www.southwestsymphony.com.
New Outreach Opportunity for Teens and Adults
Only have a little time to spare but you care about making a big difference? All hands, all minds, all ages invited to join in service. Look for St. John's new outreach ministry at this Sunday's Jubilation. We've listened to our high school teens and this is what they've told us: We are busy with academics, sports, clubs and jobs; the pressure can be intense. You also manage to carve out time for church and want to do good works. This last part makes you very special and--in today's world, sadly--a rarity. Our diocese has learned this the hard way, which has led to a significantly reduced diocesan youth program, including the elimination of decades-old programs like Happening. That's why St. John's wants to meet the challenge and support your commitment to our parish and your own spiritual growth. Here's the idea... each quarter we'll put forth at least one service project that parishioners of all ages and interests can join in. No regularly scheduled "meetings". Just projects and dates and details. You choose the ones you are able to do (and suggest your own ideas). We'll invite other Flossmoor churches to join us. Involve your friends, family, neighbors--whatever makes it fun and meaningful for you, and in the process, we'll help heal the world. God loves it when we do that.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Arugula, green and jalapeno peppers.
Reflection for September 11
A Prayer for the Commemoration of 9/11
God the compassionate one, whose loving care extends to all the world, we remember this day your children of many nations and many faiths whose lives were cut short by the fierce flames of anger and hatred. Console those who continue to suffer and grieve, and give them comfort and hope as they look to the future. Out of what we have endured, give us the grace to examine our relationships with those who perceive us as the enemy, and show our leaders the way to use our power to serve the good of all for the healing of the nations. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord who, in reconciling love, was lifted up from the earth that he might draw all things to himself. Amen. (Prepared by the Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold for September 11 anniversary observances.)
God the compassionate one, whose loving care extends to all the world, we remember this day your children of many nations and many faiths whose lives were cut short by the fierce flames of anger and hatred. Console those who continue to suffer and grieve, and give them comfort and hope as they look to the future. Out of what we have endured, give us the grace to examine our relationships with those who perceive us as the enemy, and show our leaders the way to use our power to serve the good of all for the healing of the nations. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord who, in reconciling love, was lifted up from the earth that he might draw all things to himself. Amen. (Prepared by the Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold for September 11 anniversary observances.)
Friday, September 2, 2016
Announcements for September 4
Jubilation: September 11
St. John’s fall celebration of the people, activities and ministries of the parish will take place Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 AM service. Come for lunch and catch up with fellow parishioners after the summer. You can also browse program and ministry opportunities and sign up for Sunday School.
PADS
As the vestry Godparent to the PADS Group of St. John’s, I would like to ask the congregation to pray for their coming season, starting this October. PADS is a ministry that reaches beyond the doors of St. John the Evangelist into the community in need... Answering the call of Jesus. --Ted Stone
UTO Blue Boxes
Beginning in the 1880’s women of the Episcopal Church have coordinated the United Thank Offering. Central to the UTO are the familiar blue boxes. Pick one up from the information tables and take it home. Every time you are thankful or mindful of a blessing in your life, put a coin or two in the box. Collections from throughout the Episcopal Church are gathered together and grants are made to help people in need and support the mission of the church. To learn more talk with Iris Bestow or check out this website.
Parish Office Closed
The parish office will be closed Monday, September 5, in observance of Labor Day.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Cantaloupe and green bell peppers.
St. John’s fall celebration of the people, activities and ministries of the parish will take place Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 AM service. Come for lunch and catch up with fellow parishioners after the summer. You can also browse program and ministry opportunities and sign up for Sunday School.
PADS
As the vestry Godparent to the PADS Group of St. John’s, I would like to ask the congregation to pray for their coming season, starting this October. PADS is a ministry that reaches beyond the doors of St. John the Evangelist into the community in need... Answering the call of Jesus. --Ted Stone
UTO Blue Boxes
Beginning in the 1880’s women of the Episcopal Church have coordinated the United Thank Offering. Central to the UTO are the familiar blue boxes. Pick one up from the information tables and take it home. Every time you are thankful or mindful of a blessing in your life, put a coin or two in the box. Collections from throughout the Episcopal Church are gathered together and grants are made to help people in need and support the mission of the church. To learn more talk with Iris Bestow or check out this website.
Parish Office Closed
The parish office will be closed Monday, September 5, in observance of Labor Day.
Vegetable Abundance
This week: Cantaloupe and green bell peppers.
Reflection for September 4
Back to school, back to faith
This time of year my Facebook feed is full of photos of kids headed back to school…. But back to school isn't just for kids and their parents. This time of year is an invitation to all of us to renew our learning and growth…. Too many people check out of learning about their faith.
In my time as a parish priest, I met with lots of families facing a crisis of some kind — a death, a job loss, a broken relationship, a health problem Too often, their brittle faith was shattered by the normal tragedies of human experience. And it’s no wonder. Without adult learning, we’re left to make sense of adult problems with a child’s faith. A mature faith helps us face life’s difficulties and it can even help us love difficult people. Deep faith, nourished by knowledge and inquiry, is not only more robust, but it is more vibrant. We discover new ways to praise God and more reasons to thank God (The Rev. Scott Gunn, Executive Director, Forward Movement; Read the entire piece HERE).
This time of year my Facebook feed is full of photos of kids headed back to school…. But back to school isn't just for kids and their parents. This time of year is an invitation to all of us to renew our learning and growth…. Too many people check out of learning about their faith.
In my time as a parish priest, I met with lots of families facing a crisis of some kind — a death, a job loss, a broken relationship, a health problem Too often, their brittle faith was shattered by the normal tragedies of human experience. And it’s no wonder. Without adult learning, we’re left to make sense of adult problems with a child’s faith. A mature faith helps us face life’s difficulties and it can even help us love difficult people. Deep faith, nourished by knowledge and inquiry, is not only more robust, but it is more vibrant. We discover new ways to praise God and more reasons to thank God (The Rev. Scott Gunn, Executive Director, Forward Movement; Read the entire piece HERE).
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