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.

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.

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.

Announcements for September 25

• Blood Drive Results
  Praise God for everyone who offered to donate blood. 28 units were collected, exceeding Lifesource’s goal, and significantly exceeding the total from last year’s drive.
  
  
• Children’s Participation in the Offertory
  Remember, beginning this Sunday, children are invited to participate directly in the offertory by bringing their own offerings to the altar. Non-perishable food items or items for the Humane Society are possible offerings, but God cherishes all offerings. Don’t forget to bring yours.
  
  
• Regular Children’s Sunday School Classes Begin This Sunday
  Families should have received a confirmation letter with class information and locations. Whether or not you had a chance to register previously, all children are welcome. Classes begin at 9:00 a.m.
  
  
• Living Faithfully Adult Class Begins This Sunday
  The adult Living Faithfully class begins a study of emergent Christianity with a DVD featuring Phyllis Tickle. Join us in Classroom 4, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
  
  
• Flat Roof Replacement Underway
  Materials have been delivered to begin replacement of all St. John’s flat roofs. Weather permitting, the work should take 1 1/2 - 2 weeks. Check out St. John’s on Facebook to see photos.
  
  
• Taize Service at IJP this Thursday
  Infant Jesus of Prague will be offering a Taize prayer service this Thursday evening, September 29, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Taize is an ecumenical, meditative form of worship. All are welcome. St. John’s is exploring partnering with IJP to offer these services throughout the year.
  
  
• Field Trip to See Saint John’s Bible
  The St. John’s Bible is the first illuminated, handwritten Bible to be commissioned by a Benedictine monastery in modern times. It is a spectacular work. A portion is currently on display at the Loyola University Museum of Art downtown. Parishioner Steven Russell is coordinating a field trip Thursday, October 20. Please contact him if you would like to participate.
  
  
• Blessing of the Animals Next Sunday
  The annual blessing of the pets takes place next Sunday, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the outdoor altar.

Announcements for September 18

• Participate in the Parish Blood Drive – This Sunday, September 18
  St. John’s is sponsoring a blood drive (in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell) this Sunday, September 18. Appointments and more information are available online at www.lifesource.org. Walk-ins are also welcome! Remember to bring a photo ID. The blood drive will take place in the education wing.
  
  
• Vestry Meeting This Monday
  The September meeting of the vestry is this Monday, September 19, beginning at 7:00 p.m.
  
  
• Children’s Sunday School Activities Begin This Sunday
  Children of all ages are invited to gather in the Atrium this Sunday, beginning at 9:00 a.m. to help paint this year’s glass murals. Regular Sunday School classes begin next week, September 25.
  
  
• ECW Potluck on Wednesday
  The women of the church are having a pot luck luncheon this Wednesday, September 21, beginning at 11:30 a.m.
  
  
• Delegates Needed for Diocesan Convention
  The annual convention of the Diocese of Chicago takes place November 18 and 19 the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center. Please speak to the Rector ASAP if you would like to represent St. John’s as a delegate. More information on Convention is available here.
  
  
• Living Faithfully Adult Class Begins Next Sunday
  Next week the adult Living Faithfully class begins a study of emergent Christianity with a DVD featuring Phyllis Tickle. Sign up in the undercroft if you would like to order a participants’ handbook.
  
  
• Taize Service at IJP
  Infant Jesus of Prague will be offering a Taize prayer service, Thursday evening, September 29, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Taize is an ecumenical, meditative form of worship. All are welcome. St. John’s is exploring partnering with IJP to offer these services throughout the year.

Announcements for September 11

• St. John’s Jubilation is This Sunday – September 11
  St. John’s annual fall kick off, brunch bunch, ministry fair, Sunday School registration, community celebration, all around Jubilation takes place this Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 service in the undercroft. Explore displays on the many ministries and activities that are a part of the life of our parish community. Everybody is invited!
  
  
• Sunday School Registration
  Children’s Sunday School Registration takes place at the Jubilation. Look for the Sunday School table. Next Sunday, children of all ages are invited to meet in the Atrium during the 9:00 education hour to help create this year’s children’s murals.
  
  
• Brunch Bunch This Sunday
  In conjunction with the Jubilation, brunch bunch will be serving hotdogs and various “picnic” salads. You do not need to bring anything, although if a few people could bring, homemade desserts it would be greatly appreciated by all!
  
  
• Interfaith Community Remembrance – Tenth Anniversary of 9.11
  The South Suburban Ministerial Association is sponsoring this service on Sunday, September 11, at 4:00 p.m. at Flossmoor Community Church. All are welcome.
  
  
• Bishop Lee’s Reflection on the Anniversary of September 11
  Bishop Lee’s reflection is printed with the prayer list in the Sunday service leaflet. It is also posted here on the Diocese of Chicago’s Blog.
  
  
• Sign Up For Parish Blood Drive – September 18
  St. John’s will be sponsoring a blood drive (in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell) next Sunday, September 18. Sign up sheets and more information will be available at the Jubilation or you may sign up online.
  
  
• Federal Job Search Seminar
  The South Suburban Interfaith Job Search Network, of which St. John’s is a member, will host a “Federal Job Search Seminar” led by John F. Costello. Even in this difficult economic climate, the federal government remains a relatively reliable employer. Mr. Costello has led over 800 seminars helping job seekers secure federal employment. The event will also provide suggestions for improving resumes. It takes place this Wednesday, September 14, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Community House at Flossmoor Community Church (2218 Hutchison).
  
  
• Taize Service at IJP
  Infant Jesus of Prague will be offering a Taize prayer service, Thursday evening, September 29, beginning at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Announcements for September 4

• St. John’s Jubilation is Next Sunday – September 11
  St. John’s annual fall kick off, brunch bunch, ministry fair, Sunday School registration, community celebration, all around Jubilation takes place next Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 service in the undercroft. Come share a meal with fellow parishioners and catch up after the summer. Register children for Sunday School. Explore displays on the many ministries and activities that are a part of the life of our parish community. Everybody is invited!
  
  
• Interfaith Community Remembrance – Tenth Anniversary of 9.11
  The South Suburban Ministerial Association is sponsoring this service on Sunday, September 11, at 4:00 p.m. at Flossmoor Community Church. All are welcome.
  
  
• Parish Office Closed for Labor Day
  The parish office will be closed Monday, September 5, for the Labor Day holiday.
  
  
• Sign Up For Parish Blood Drive – September 18
  St. John’s will be sponsoring a blood drive (in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell) on Sunday, September 18. Sign up sheets are available in the undercroft or you may sign up online.

Announcements for August 28

• 2011-2012 Parish Calendars Available
  The calendar highlighting parish events for the coming year is now available. Look for yours via e- mail or pick up a copy at church.
  
  
• Blessing of the Backpacks is This Sunday, August 28
  Students (of any and all ages) are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, August 28. We will bless the backpacks and pray for God’s grace to be with all who teach and learn in the school year ahead.
  
  
• EFM Registrations Due Now
  Education for Ministry (EFM) is a small group-based program of study and reflection designed to educate and equip lay people for ministry. St. John’s EFM group meets weekly on Thursday nights. More information about the program is available at their website. There are several openings for new participants in St. John’s group. Please speak to Pastor Orr.
  
  
• St. John’s Jubilation – September 11
  St. John’s annual fall kick off, brunch bunch, ministry fair, Sunday School registration, community celebration, all around Jubilation takes place this year on Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 service in the undercroft. Please come!
  
  
• Interfaith Community Remembrance – Tenth Anniversary of 9.11
  The South Suburban Ministerial Association is sponsoring this service on Sunday, September 11, at 4:00 p.m. at Flossmoor Community Church. All are welcome.
  
  
• Sign Up For Parish Blood Drive – September 18
  St. John’s will be sponsoring a blood drive (in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell) on Sunday, September 18. Sign up sheets are available in the undercroft or you may sign up online.

Announcements for August 21

• Blessing of the Backpacks is Next Sunday, August 28
  Students (of any and all ages) are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service next Sunday, August 28. We will bless the backpacks and pray for God’s grace to be with all who teach and learn in the school year ahead.
  
  
• EFM Registration
  Education for Ministry (EFM) is a small group-based program of study and reflection designed to educate and equip lay people for ministry. St. John’s EFM group meets weekly on Thursday nights. More information about the program is available at their website. There are several openings for new participants in St. John’s group. Please speak to Pastor Orr.
  
  
• St. John’s Jubilation – September 11
  St. John’s annual fall kick off, brunch bunch, ministry fair, Sunday School registration, community celebration, all around Jubilation takes place this year on Sunday, September 11, following the 10:00 service in the undercroft. Please come!
  
  
• Join Grande Prairie Singers
  Auditions will be held Saturday, August 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Grande Prairie Singers—grand fun, grand sound. Location is the Singers office in Grace United Protestant Church, Park Forest. Appointment required! Call 708.481.8684.
  
  
• New Parish Office Hours Begin Monday
  Beginning this Monday, August 22, the parish office will be open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
  
  
• Sign Up For Parish Blood Drive – September 18
  St. John’s will be sponsoring a blood drive (in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell) on Sunday, September 18. Sign up sheets are available in the undercroft or you may sign up online.

Announcements for August 14

• Vestry Meeting
  The August meeting of the vestry is this Monday, August 15, beginning at 7:00 p.m.
  
  
• Blessing of the Backpacks
  Students (of any and all ages) are invited to bring their backpacks or book bags to the 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, August 28. We will bless the backpacks and pray for God’s grace to be with all who teach and learn in the school year ahead.
  
  
• EFM Registration
  Education for Ministry (EFM) is a small group-based program of study and reflection designed to educate and equip lay people for ministry. St. John’s EFM group meets weekly on Thursday nights. More information about the program is available at their website. There are several openings for new participants in St. John’s group. Please speak to Pastor Orr.
  
  
• Join Grande Prairie Singers
  Auditions will be held Saturday, August 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Grande Prairie Singers—grand fun, grand sound. Location is the Singers office in Grace United Protestant Church, Park Forest. Appointment required! Call 708.481.8684.
  
  
• New Parish Office Hours
  Beginning next Monday, August 22, the parish office will be open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
  
  
• Parish Blood Drive – September 18
  St. John’s will be sponsoring a blood drive (in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell) on Sunday, September 18. More information and registration will be available soon.

Announcements for June 20

• Auction of TV History Items
  St. John’s parishioners Dr. Steve and Mary Hofer will be auctioning the entire contents of The Philo T. Farnsworth Television History Center on line and in Auburn, Indiana, on Saturday, June 19, 2010, beginning at 9:30 CDT. Philo Farnsworth was the inventor of electronic television in 1930. Included will be a complete set of the digest size TV Guide from April 1953 to October 2005. Over 50 vintage tv sets, Farnsworth radios and tv lights will be sold. Advertising items, Bozo, Lucy, Howdy Doody items, early remote controls, Lone Ranger, Hopalong Cassidy, Star Trek, Lost, X-Files and numerous items from the 1940’s programs to current prime time shows can be purchased. These items can be seen at www.LittlejohnAuctions.com.
  
  
• Ice Cream Social
  We’re gearing up for the St. John’s Annual Community Ice Cream Social scheduled for Monday, July 5th (note the date). Denise Coffman, who last year amused us with her balloon creations will be back again this year. She and another fellow balloon twister will wow us with their amazing skill. We’ll have ice cream, cold drinks and hot dogs. All of this happens immediately following the 10:00 a.m. Flossmoor Children’s Parade and runs through about 12:30 p.m. Your participation is what makes this event a success. Are you able to bring in some wildflowers or flowers from your garden? Can you put up flyers around town? Can you help move tables and tents outside? Can you meet and greet our guests? Can you scoop ice cream? How about (and this is for everyone) praying for glorious weather? Contact Gale Michael with questions and/or offers to help.
  
  
• Vestry Meeting
  The vestry meets Monday, June 21, beginning with Evening Prayer at 7:00 p.m.
  
  
• Music Director Search
  We are currently soliciting applications for the position of Director of Music at St. John’s. Word of mouth is one of the best advertising tools; everyone is encouraged to spread the word. Color flyers are available on information tables; please take one or two and post them in appropriate places. The full position description is posted on the parish website.
  
  
• Blood Drive Update
  From LifeSource: Eighteen units were collected; 14 of whole blood and 4 of double red blood cells. Since one blood donation can save up to three lives, the units collected will potentially save 54 lives.

Announcements for June 13

• Parish Directories Available
  Updated copies of the parish directory are available. Look for the light green cover and pick yours up. Note that a full year of birthdays and anniversaries is now included in the back.
  
  
• Music Director Search
  We are currently soliciting applications for the position of Director of Music at St. John’s. Word of mouth is one of the best advertising tools; everyone is encouraged to spread the word. Color flyers are available on information tables; please take one or two and post them in appropriate places. The full position description is posted on the parish website.
  
  
• Blood Drive Thanks
  Praise God for everyone who donated (or attempted to donate) blood at the blood drive Sunday. Your actions are truly those of Christian compassion.
  
  
• Instructed Eucharist Available
  Copies of the text from the Instructed Eucharist are available. It is also posted on-line here.
  
  
• Daughters of the King Meet Saturday, June 19
  The Daughters will meet in the Guild Room, beginning at 9:00 a.m. All women of the parish are welcome.

Announcements for June 6

• Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive this Sunday
  The blood drive will take place in the education wing from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. Walk-ins are welcome. All donors will need to show picture ID.
  
  
• Parish Picnic and Farewell to Jeff Peterson This Sunday
  Following the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, please stay for hotdogs and hamburgers grilled by St. John’s master griller, Greg Lawrence. It is a wonderful chance to relax and ease into summer in the fellowship of parishioners. If you can, bring a side or dessert; but come, regardless. We will also take this opportunity to thank Jeff Peterson for his music ministry at St. John’s and wish him Godspeed as he heads for his new job at Baylor University.
  
  
• Vacation Bible School
  Once again, several folk from St. John’s are helping to staff Vacation Bible School at Faith Lutheran Church in Homewood. Sessions are 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., June 14-18 and June 21-25. For more information or to register, visit www.faith-homewood.org or call 799-1160.
  
  
• Instructed Eucharist Available
  Copies of the text from last week’s Instructed Eucharist are available. It is also posted on-line here on the Rector's blog.
  
  
• Music Director Search
  We are currently soliciting applications for the position of Director of Music at St. John’s. Word of mouth is one of the best advertising tools; everyone is encouraged to spread the word. Color flyers are available on information tables; please take one or two and post them in appropriate places. The full position description is posted on the parish website.
  

Announcements for May 30

• Instructed Eucharist this Sunday, May 30
  Both worship services this Sunday will include commentary on the meaning of elements of the liturgy. Both will still be regular services with Communion.
  
  
• The Second Annual Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive is next Sunday, June 6
  St. John’s parish blood drive is organized in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell who died in the spring of 2009. Jackie joyfully served and participated in the life of the parish for 33 years. In her final day of life she required massive infusions of blood. We honor her by giving the gift of life to others. Please sign up now! You may sign up on-line at LifeSource or look for sign up sheets in the west foyer.
  
  
• Parish Picnic and Farewell to Jeff Peterson Next Sunday
  Everyone is invited to the parish picnic next Sunday, June 6, following the 10:00 service. Hotdogs and hamburgers will be provided. If you can, please bring a side or dessert. Weather permitting, the picnic will be held on the south lawn. We will also take this opportunity to thank Jeff Peterson for his music ministry at St. John’s and wish him Godspeed as he heads for his new job at Baylor University.
  
  
• Last, but not least, Mayfair thanks area merchants
  In the last installment of our three-part ‘thanks’ to those behind this month’s successful Mayfair fundraiser, the Brotherhood of St. Andrew would like to acknowledge the generosity of these local businesses who made donations to our charity auction: ArtGlass; The Art Corner; Aurelio's Pizza; Bogart’s; Busy Bee; Care Cleaners; Chicago Dough Co.; Duo’s Nearly Nu Shop; Creative Seeds; Dunning’s; Eden Spa (aka Jonathan Kane); Edible Arrangements; Escape Spa; Fifth Quarter; Flavor; The Great Frame Up; Homewood Florist; Marc Alan Spa; Mama & Me; Northwoods; Omnibus Clock Shop; Prairie Tire & Auto Center; Primet Fluidpower Inc.; Reflections Yoga; Spaahs Skincare & Bodyworx; Sun Center Garden & Gifts; Starbucks (on Halsted, at Cherry Creek, and in downtown Homewood); Tom’s Family Restaurant; and Walt’s Food Centers. On behalf of the Brotherhood, thanks to all of these businesses for supporting our ministry of helping others. -- Rob McManamy
  
  
• Memorial Day Holiday
  The parish office will be closed Monday, May 31, in observance of Memorial Day.
  
  
• Parish Directory Update
  We are in the process of updating the parish directory. Please check the drafts in the church or call the parish office with changes. Note that birthdays and anniversaries are now listed in the back.
  
  
• St. John’s Knitters on Summer Vacation
  The St. John’s knitters will be taking June and July off. They will resume meeting on August 2, at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Announcements for May 23

• Brunch Bunch This Sunday, May 23
  Everyone is invited to enjoy fellowship and food this Sunday, May 23, following the 10:00 a.m. service. The entrée will be fried chicken. If you can, bring a dish to share (last name beginning with T – Z, a dessert; everyone else a side). But most importantly, bring yourself.
  
  
• Celebrate Christian Formation
  This Sunday, May 23, we celebrate the conclusion of this year’s Christian Formation classes. During the 10:00 service, the children of the parish will be celebrated for their participation. We will also thank their teachers: Marilynn Enright, Pat Smith-Huntoon, Diane Walsh Madden, Cynthia Turnquest, Patti Pohrte, Kathy Brown, Donica Van Voorhees and Cyndie Knoll. We also thank adult class leaders Mary Agnes Long and Audrey Ongman. Education for Ministry graduates Mary Jean Bond, Steven Russell, Anna Alsman and Bernie and Shirley Nash will receive their certificates.
  
  
• More Mayfair Thanks... this time for our generous donors
  In this space last week, the Brotherhood of St. Andrew thanked all those who physically made this month’s ‘Spring Mayfair’ Charity Auction and Dinner a reality. This week, we thank those parishioners who helped ensure the event’s financial success by donating specialty cakes, artwork and myriad other items for our auction, which ultimately raised some $2,600 for distribution to our designated charities. Those members of St. John’s who this year shared their talents and fortune to stock our auction included Bill & Ann Moser, Larry Boltz, Cyndie Knoll, Donna Blackburn, John Huntoon, Jim Buckman, Deacon Mike Bond, Jack Voigt, Harold Keene, Margi Strombeck, Bob Stevens, Diane Mobley-Foster, Caroline Meliska, Bob Burgwald, Iris & Bill Bestow, Bob Dehn, Steve & Mary Hofer, Lynn Ruschhaupt, Harriet Clowes, Bill Sole & Bob d’Olivera, and the Berner family. Thank you all. Today, the Brotherhood and Mayfair’s direct beneficiaries—St. Mary’s Services and Episcopal Relief & Development—stand squarely in your debt. --Rob McManamy
  
  
• ECW Potluck Wednesday, May 26
  All women of the parish are invited to a potluck luncheon, Wednesday, May 26, beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the undercroft.
  
  
• Sign up Now for the Second Annual Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive
  Once again, in conjunction with the parish picnic, a blood drive will be held at St. John’s on Sunday, June 6. The blood drive is organized in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell who died in the spring of 2009. Jackie joyfully served and participated in the life of the parish for 33 years. In her final day of life she required massive infusions of blood. We honor her by giving the gift of life to others. You may sign up on-line with Lifesource or look for sign up sheets in the undercroft.
  
  
• Instructed Eucharist May 30
  Both services on May 30, Trinity Sunday, will include narrative instruction on the meaning of the liturgy.

Announcements for May 16

• Vestry Meets Monday, May 17
  The regular May meeting of the vestry begins at 7:00 p.m. in the church, Monday, May 17.
  
  
• Brunch Bunch Next Sunday, May 23
  Everyone is invited to enjoy fellowship, food and celebrate the conclusion of the Christian education year with Brunch Bunch next Sunday, May 23, following the 10:00 a.m. service. The entrée will be chicken. If you can, bring a dish to share (last name beginning with T – Z, a dessert; everyone else a side). But most importantly, bring yourself.
  
  
• Pentecost, May 23
  Next Sunday, May 23, is Pentecost. There is a long-time, informal tradition for people to wear red to church on Pentecost. The liturgical color for Pentecost is red, signifying the “tongues, as of fire” that alighted upon the disciples. It is also a traditional date for baptisms and we will be baptizing two new Christians at the 10:00 a.m. service.
  
  
• ‘Mayfair’ Magic Recaptured; Moms to Benefit
  More than 80 parishioners and guests filled the undercroft and Guild Room last Saturday evening for the Brotherhood of St. Andrew’s annual ‘Spring Mayfair’ Charity Auction and Dinner, which ultimately raised more than $3,200. Falling on the eve of Mothers’ Day, this year’s event placed a special emphasis on mothers, targeting at least half of its proceeds to St. Mary’s Episcopal Adoption Services and Maternity Counseling, which provided the night’s guest speaker, Ms. Jan Lynch, a St. Mary’s board member and adoptive parent. The balance will go to Episcopal Relief & Development, which also helps moms and their families around the world. While individual ‘Mayfair’ donors will be thanked individually and formally in the days ahead, the Brotherhood does want to take this opportunity to acknowledge those who gave so generously of their time, not to mention energy and sweat, all of which proved necessary to pull off this rewarding event. Specifically, ‘Mayfair 2010’ is indebted to the brawn and legwork of Margi & Jack Strombeck; Sue & Bob Berner; Iris & Bill Bestow; Cynthia Turnquest; Mark Moxley; Anna Alsman; Ted Stone; Stewart Scott; Alex Fullam; Leighton Whittaker; and Dee, Elliot & Glynnis McManamy. The Brotherhood sincerely thanks you all! --Rob McManamy
  
  
• Daughters of the King Meet Saturday, May 15
  The Daughters of the King will meet Saturday, May 15, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Guild Room. All women of the parish are welcome.
  
  
• Sign up Now for the Second Annual Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive
  Once again, in conjunction with the parish picnic, a blood drive will be held at St. John’s on Sunday, June 6. The blood drive is organized in memory of parishioner Jackie Campbell who died in the spring of 2009. You may sign up on-line with Lifesource or look for sign up sheets in the undercroft.
  
  
• Instructed Eucharist May 30
  Both services on May 30, Trinity Sunday, will include narrative instruction on the meaning of the liturgy.