The people of St. Catherine's seek to share in the love that Jesus Christ has for us and the world by welcoming, accepting, nurturing, and serving all people through the power of the Holy Spirit.
We Welcome You!
The Newsletter of St. Catherine's Episcopal Church
Marietta, GA
September 12- 25, 2005
Sep. 11 - Church School begins; Acolyte Recognition |
IN THIS ISSUE |
Clergy Letter |
White Privilege
I attended a Diocesan sponsored Anti-Racism training course recently. True, I really didn't want to spend a day of my time in training, especially so soon after returning from Sabbatical. True, I thought I'd had enough training in this important area what with my Procter & Gamble training and the Diocese of Chicago training. I was reluctant to go! But the Bishop said I must! I felt not unlike many of the people I am requiring to attend the "Safeguarding God's Children" training required by the Diocese.
And so I went and, the truth is, I enjoyed it and I learned something. Funny how that works. No matter when you go back to training on these important concerns racism, sexual abuse, etc. there is something new to be learned and old learnings to be reinforced. I thought the training was redundant in the morning you know, been there; done that. But I was confronted in the afternoon with a concept that if I'd given it half a thought I would have known, but the truth is I didn't. And what horrifies me is that I didn't give it a thought because my being white allows me to not give it a thought. It is called white privilege.
What is white privilege? Well, it is that privilege we who are white people (and especially we who are white males) have in our culture. It is so a part of our culture that we (white people) need not even think about it. Here are some examples. If I should need to move, I can be pretty sure of renting or purchasing housing in an area which I can afford and in which I would want to live. I can expect figurative language and imagery in all of the arts to testify to experiences of my race. I can take a job with an affirmative action employer without having my co-workers on the job suspect that I got it because of my race. I can do well in a challenging situation without being called a credit to my race.
I'd add another privilege after watching the horrifying events of this past week. I have or can find the resources to evacuate my city and my home when a powerful hurricane is bearing down upon me. I, too, have asked the question: why didn't these people leave? And the answer in its truth is too painful to face. And it is that the people we saw suffering at the Dome and throughout the city of New Orleans lacked the resources to evacuate. Yes, to those who will take exception to this line of reasoning, not everyone who stayed is poor. But for the vast majority who stayed, they are poor. It was and is for us in communities throughout this nation a horrifying reminder of how we have forgotten the poor in this country. It was a white privilege to buy gas for the family car, to rent private jets, to catch the last commercial flight, bus, or train out of town. I certainly am glad that so many could evacuate. It s just that it doesn't mean because they could that everyone could.
The challenge these events present to every one of us who share this privilege is best articulated by Peggy McIntosh from Wellesley College in Massachusetts in an essay from 1990:
Although systemic change takes many decades, there are pressing questions for me and, I imagine, for some others like me if we raise our daily consciousness on the perquisites of being light-skinned. What will we do with such knowledge? As we know from watching men, it is an open question whether we will choose to use unearned advantage, and whether we will use any of our arbitrarily awarded power to try to reconstruct power systems on a broader base.
Jim +
We had a wonderful response to our collections for Hurricane Katrina relief last weekend, Sept. 3-4. We collected $8,600 for Episcopal Relief and Development in our ingathering. Our volunteers who delivered donated items from St. Catherine's to MUST last week reported that they were placed directly onto a truck headed straight for New Orleans. This weekend, Sept. 10-11, we will continue both the collections of money for ERD (please be sure designate your checks to "ERD Hurricane Katrina relief"), and food and personal items for MUST at all services this weekend. We can also use cardboard boxes and grocery bags to transport the donated items.
We are concerned with relief now and long-term. We plan to designate a weekend per month for the next several months to collect more donations to ERD and other relief agencies. Our staff and Outreach committee continue to explore how to coordinate St. Catherine's response to the widespread effects of Hurricane Katrina. We are examining ways to send relief to affected areas and to support refugees here in Cobb/Marietta. Please contact Fr. Jim or Sherry or Nadine Pope (Outreach Ministry Team) to let them know ideas you might have -- let's work together in all our efforts.
Hurricane Katrina Prayer List
We know that many in our parish have connections in areas affected by Hurricane Katrina. If you have family or friends who are affected by the disaster we would like to lift them up in prayer. Please send your name and the persons you would like prayed for to Ginney Linstrom as soon as possible, ginney
stcatherines.org or 770-971-2839.
MUST Ministry Needs
Here are some items MUST is requesting. For up-to-date information on needs and referrals, see their website at MUST Ministries.
- Money - checks marked Katrina in the memo section
- Gifts Cards - gasoline, pharmacy, CCT bus tickets
- Grocery bags - new or used, plastic or paper
- Boxes - to pack groceries in
- Crates
- Moving Trucks
- Laptop computers
- peanut butter AND jelly
- canned meat, tuna, chili, dried beans
- Fruits, vegetables, juices, soup, spaghetti sauce
- Rice, pasta, flour, corn meal, cereal, grits, pancake & cornbread mix
- Powdered and canned milk, Cheddar & Parmesan cheese
- Baby food and formula, diapers and wipes
- Family size soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, razors, toothbrushes, grocery bags
- VOLUNTEERS at the food warehouse -- help weekdays from 10am-2pm to sort, pack and load food boxes. They also need drivers with trucks to make deliveries. At this point they are not asking you to schedule in advance - just come! To get to the warehouse, travel north of MUST Marietta on North Cobb Parkway (Hwy 41); turn left (west) on White Circle Drive, right on White Circle Court and follow the signs (across from Robert Bowden). MUST thanks Cobb EMC which has provided this warehouse space!
- Space for donations of clothing is limited.
- Youth ages 10-17 may serve with a parent or in a group with a 1:7 adult to youth ratio and a release form signed by a parent. MUST's insurance does not provide for children under 10 years to be on their campus.
Clothing drive for local evacuees
Parishioner Susan Burkholder, who works at Varner Elementary School, has identified the following needs to which we would like to respond. The school has received 25 students as of today from Louisiana. Most of them have only the clothes on their back. Please bring donations of the following items (clean and in good condition) to church this weekend, Sept. 10-11. They will be delivered to the school for distribution:
- clothes (adult and children, all sizes)
- shoes
- NEW underwear and socks
- toiletries
- pillows
- sheets
- blankets
Blood Drive at St. Catherine's
Monday, October 24
The Red Cross is currently in the enviable position to ask donors now to please wait to donate blood. They have been hit with an initial surge of donations after Hurricane Katrina. They will need many more pints going forward.
We will hold a Blood Drive in the Parish Hall on Monday, October 24, 2:30- 7:30PM Watch for signup sheets in the church lobby later this month, and watch for Dracula, the blood donation chair, to make his appearance during church announcements.
Information sources
We will post information links on our website as we receive them. Be sure to read your Parish Annoucements email for continuing notices about St. Catherine's participation in relief efforts.
The Atlanta Diocese website has lots of links regarding our response to the disaster, including a video message from Bishop Alexander. Visit it often for updated information.
Sunday, Sept. 11, 10 AM
We have great programs for all ages!
Children ages 2 1/2 to 5 th grade -- Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Youth -- Journey to Adulthood
Adults -- choose from 5 great offerings:
- "St. Catherine's 101" -- Led by Sherry Coulter
An ongoing class for newcomers and anyone who wishes to learn moer about St. Catherine's and the Episcopal Church. The material will be presented not as a series but as individual topics, so drop-ins are welcome. This will be a great place to meet new and old members of St. Catherine's. The class will have speakers form our staff, vestry, and the many committees involved in our parish life.
- "The Church through the eyes of Moses, Joshua, Deborah, and Matthew" Rector's Study Class --Led by Father Jim Nixon
God called us into community the very moment Moses led his people out of Egypt. The Church as community has been in formation since and will be far beyond any of our times. This fall our Scripture readings for worship offer us a rich opportunity to look at some of the great stories of the Hebrew Scripture as well as Matthew s passion for the church. Together we will look through the profound experiences of these two great prophets, judge and evangelist to understand what they have to tell us about the Church: our great victories; our disappointments; our power to convert the unbelieving; and, of course, our colorful squabbles. Join us each week for this Bible Study that will depend on discussion to plumb the depths of these great stories.
Coming in March: "Chocolate for Lent" -- The Rector's Class will take a creative approach to our Lenten journey. Using themes from the 2000 Academy Award nominated film Chocolat, this unique approach to Lent creates the space for deeper insights into self-discipline, self-giving, conversion, acceptance, and maturing in Christ. Delving into the delicious depths of humanity, Chocolate for Lent includes material for individual reflection.
- "The Synoptic Gospels" Bible Study Class -- Led by Tom Snead & Jim Mattox.
The Bible is our witness to God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit in our history. Do we have one witness (Mark) and two copiers (Matthew and Luke)? Do we have two witnesses and one copier? Do we have three separate witnesses? We also have John as a witness. We will read the three synoptic gospels and compare the readings to determine what we think. Is it important to have more than the two witnesses? What will this mean for each of us? Come to learn, grow, and build your belief and witness. We'll use the NIV Study Bible with its correlations between the synoptic gospels and other portions of the Bible.
- "Biography: A Study of the more controversial Holy or not so Holy people of God" -- Led by Ginny Acocella
The Faith Explorers Group, by popular request, will spend most of the next few months on "Biography: A Study of the More Controversial Holy or Not So Holy People of God". If you ever thought that the Bible had no application to your life, we hope to help you see otherwise. As always, we will use storytelling to do our exploring. Each class is complete by itself, so it is ideal for those who can't be in class every week. We promise you'll learn a lot and have fun learning.
- "Sitcoms for the Soul: Everyday lessons from everyday TV shows" -- Led by Tom Blackstock
We will examine "the moral of the story" from your favorites like The Andy Griffith Show, The Beverly Hillbillies and Bonanza.
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| Keith Dumke and Kevin Hogan man the Youth table | Ana Martin and Barbara Barrington talk up the Catechesis program |
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| Taylor Baumann, Matthew Shannonhouse & Riley Barrington serve up the snow cones | Claire Frost & Mary Lou Shannonhouse try not to get too sticky from the cotton candy machine |
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| All in jest -- Father Jim and kids | Sherry Coulter and Fred Lopez -- grownups love cotton candy, too! |
WWW For Everyone, Begins Sept. 14!
Dinner 6-6:45 PM, Programs 7-8 PM
You can come just for dinner -- You can come just for the program --
You can come for both -- You can bring a friend!
Thanks to everyone to your responses to our WWW survey. WWW, our Wednesday night program, has wonderful things in store all this year. Dinner begins at 6 PM, and programs for adults, youth, and children follow at 7:00. Our evening ends with a simple worship experience such as compline.
The menu for our first evening will be fried chicken. Dinner will be served from 6:00 - 6:45 pm (Carry-out is available). The cost for dinner will be $6.00/adult, $3.00/child, $1.00/PBJ Bar. So we know how much food to prepare please make your dinner reservation each week by Monday -- fill out the Opportunities for Ministry form in your worship bulletin or call the church office at 770-971-2839. Reservations will be held until 6:20pm, or call to tell us if you'll arrive later. The church kitchen extension is 208. If you can't commit ahead of time, please call to check food availability or come in at 6:20pm.
Below is our first adult program. See an additional article below, Coming in WWW, for our exciting selection of offerings for the whole year!
Adult WWW in September: End of Life Planning
Do you know what to do if a family member or loved one dies? To be sure, talking about death and dying is not a pleasant or restful topic but planning for the inevitable, or the unexpected, makes good sense for you and your family. Saint Catherine's will have a three-part program about end of life planning.
On September 14, Charles Mace will present a brief seminar about estate planning. Charles will discuss the law surrounding intestate succession in Georgia (what happens when you die without a Will - who gets what and why), tax matters, the importance of a Will for reasons related to money, the importance of a Will for reasons unrelated to money, guardianship issues, medical directives, long term care issues (often referred to as elder law), and a host of related material.
Charles plans to allot enough to time during his presentations to answer questions, and address common misunderstandings that people may have about the general field of Wills, Trusts, Estates, and Probate. Several written resources will be passed out for audience members to review and take home. Charles is a member of the State Bar of Georgia, and he has spent almost ten years working as a professional advisor and counselor on matters related to estate planning, life planning, and probate. He has published two articles on the subject matter of estate planning/life planning (both dealing with estate planning complications for non-traditional family relationships), and he has been in private practice as an attorney since 1996.
On September 21, our clergy will deliver a presentation that addresses some of the ethereal issues that are common when discussing death and dying. Also, the presentation will cover many of the practical issues associated with planning for death or dealing with the death of a loved one — common questions such as: who to call to handle the funeral arrangements; how much does a burial or cremation cost; what scriptures are common; where you should look for important documents (wills etc); and a host of related matters.
On September 28, Dani Dickson will lead people through a workbook that addresses many of the issues associated with health care planning. Those people who attend Dani's presentation should expect a thorough discussion of health care planning, advance directives for health care, pain management, end of life decision making, and a variety of other topics. At the end of Dani's presentation she hopes to guide all in attendance through a form that will help create a valid "Directive for Final Health Care." Dani is a nurse and she has had specialized training directly targeted at Health Care Directives.
Attend any part of any program you like — if you plan to attend please RSVP through the church office, so we have an accurate count for materials.
Foyers Dinner Groups Kickoff Dinner
7 PM on Saturday , Sept. 17 in the Parish Hall
Try it, you'll like it! This is a great opportunity for new members, old members and visitors to get to know others in our parish family. "Foyers" (Dinner Groups) are a long-standing tradition at Saint Catherine's. They are an opportunity to get to know other parishioners in a social situation by having dinner together in a small group once a month.
You can join a group whether you know anyone or not, whether you can host a meal in your home or not. Traditionally the month's host provides the main course while other members provide the other dishes. Your group can be as creative as it wants to arrange its meals and settings. Please check your bulletin and plan to join us at the Kickoff Dinner.
Sunday, Sept. 25
10 AM in the Parish Hall
All newcomers at St. Catherine's are cordially invited to a "get acquainted" coffee during the Sunday School hour in the Parish Hall. This will be a social as well as informative gathering. Clergy and lay leaders will be present to answer any questions that you may have regarding our programs, services and ministries. Please come for coffee and "goodies," and get acquainted with your parish family!
Preparations are underway for the fall Stewardship program. This year we will be having Cottage Meetings where the hopes and needs of St. Catherine's can be discussed in small neighborhood groups during the month of October. Everyone will be invited to a meeting near their home, and there will be a couple of additional meetings at the Church for those unable to otherwise attend. Your invitation to a Cottage Meeting should arrive during the week of September 19.
To prepare for these Cottage Meetings there will be a training and dinner at the church beginning at 6 pm, September 25. Those participating in this training include members of the Vestry, the meeting hosts, and members of the Stewardship and Capital Gifts Committees.
Another in our series of Stewardship Humor...
Before taking up the offering the rector announced that there had been several unexpected expenses in the past month. She encouraged everyone to make a significant offering, and as an extra incentive said whoever gave the most that day would get to pick three hymns.
When the usher brought the offering forward, there was a $1000 bill on the top of the plate. The rector asked the donor to please come forward. After a brief pause, an older woman came forward absolutely beaming. The rector thanked her profusely and reminded her she was entitled to pick three hymns.
Without hesitation, the woman pointed to three young men saying, "I pick him, and him, and him."
Our Habitat for Humanity home building project this year will start on September 10 and continue each Saturday through December 10 (not including the Saturday after Thanksgiving). This year's recipients are Violet Wilder, her 14-year-old son, Stephen, and her 6-year-old daughter, Michelle. Violet is employed by the Cobb County School system, working as a bus driver for the last 6 years. The home site is located in Smyrna between Atlanta Road and South Cobb Drive in the Groover Park subdivision at 500 Taylor Drive, about 0.7 miles north of our last build site on Pat Mell Road.
We have teamed with St. James' Episcopal and Zion Baptist churches. We need a total of 40 people on each Saturday, rain or shine (except thunderstorms), to help with construction. We also need volunteers to bring food to the site on four Saturdays for breakfast and lunch.
Please sign up at the Habitat table in the foyer. If you have questions, please contact Tom Snead (building) at 678-795-9508 or Connie Bergeron (food) at 770-951-1411.
Labor Day US 10K Race Team a Winner!
St. Catherine's 2005 10K Team joined over 11,000 other walkers, runners, inline skaters, cyclists and wheelchair athletes to celebrate Labor Day. We don't know yet how much money was raised over all for the World's Children's Center, MUST Ministries and Boys Scouts of America - but we do know St Cat's contributed over $500 to the efforts! We had some walkers, some phantom walkers, and a first time walker who inspired our team -- way to go, Taylor Baumann! In addition to the named beneficiaries, the US 10K also contributed proceeds to the Hurricane Katrina Relief effort. It was a spectacular day. Be sure to go the US 10K website for pictures and additional information.
Smile! You're on "Open Camera"
Sunday, Sept . 18
Father Jim was gone from us for four months, and has come back to St. Catherine's with much to teach us, much to share with us. We've seen changes in him, changes in the liturgy and changes in how the staff does things around here. How does that make you feel? How have you responded to these changes? What do you think about the possibilities that can come from Father Jim's experiences?
Well, you'll have an opportunity to share your thoughts when we have "Open Camera." This is your chance to tell it as you see it! Be sure to stop by the Library where the video camera will be posted in on Sunday, Sept. 18, when anyone and everyone can have their say (one at a time, of course), with no one around to edit or inhibit them.
For all adults of the parish
Saturday, October 15 at 7 PM
Be sure to hold the evening of October 15 for a congregational dinner to celebrate the 2005 Clergy Renewal. Our dinner is a part of the Eli Lilly grant and we hope that every adult will be with us for this special time. Look for further information in the coming weeks. The "Open Camera" video comments will be part of the program presented at the dinner coming in October.
Parish Day at Lake Allatoona 2005 -- Navy Beach Site
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| Chandler Parker, Nicky Muckerman & Livi Lopez have fun on the sand | John Barrington treats the children to a boat ride |
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| Fred Lopez out for a spin around the lake | Smile for the camera -- Isabel Lopez and Mary Alice Barrington |
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| Gaby Muckerman & Thad Barrington catch a wave | Elizabeth Lopez hitches a ride with Nicky Muckerman |
Why settle for a "good" marriage... ?
... when you can have great marriage!
You can make the leap from just "good" to GREAT on an Episcopal Marriage Encounter weekend! Marriage Encounter is 44 hours where married couples can get away from jobs, kids, chores, and phones - and focus only on each other. If you'd like greater depth, growth, and enrichment in your relationship, you'll like the difference an Episcopal Marriage Encounter weekend can make! The next weekend is October 21-23 at Amberly Suites, in NE Atlanta . Registration is limited so a quick response is encouraged. For more information or to register, please contact: Ron & Connie Bergeron, 770-951-1411, atlantaemeearthlink.net or go to: Atlanta EME.
Second Monday of each month, beginning Sept. 12, 6:30 pm
Men's Book Study will reconvene on September 12 at church for our first evening. Tom Hunter and Father Jim plan a gourmet delight (is that really what they said??) for a light supper. We'll then decide if we want to move around to individual homes or simply meet at the church each month. This is book study is a fellowship-oriented look at our faith with lots of discussion and sharing. Men of all ages are invited to join together to look at what it means to be man in search of faith.
We will study two books this year. We'll decide which will be first during our September gathering. As a discussion starter in September please bring a show and tell item that helps you answer the question: WHAT I DID ON MY SUMMER VACATION!
- BECOMING HUMAN: CORE TEACHINGS OF JESUS (Brian C. Taylor)
Christians have long recognized that Jesus life was characterized by vibrancy, love, commitment, clarity, and joy. We all yearn to share in these traits, and by studying Jesus we can discern that he sees in us the potential to become as he was. After all, Jesus didn't go around asking people to believe certain things about him he invited them to follow him into the abundant life he wanted to share. Taylor's succinct summations of what Jesus taught: Don t worry; Love everybody; Help the poor; Become simple; Face into conflict; Change the world; Forgive yourself for being human, and so on provide the basis for this series of reflections on the transformative wisdom that inspired those who had ears to hear to drop everything and follow him. Jesus continues to astonish and transform those who hear him, and Becoming Human is a deep well of wisdom for any who wish to give glory to God by becoming fully alive.
- SONG OF THE SHEPHERD: MEETING THE GOD OF GRACE IN PSALM 23 (Tony Horsfall)
Of all the psalms of King David, the most popular and well-known is Psalm 23. Its very familiarity, however, may cause us to miss its beauty and message. Song of the Shepherd shows that the picture of the loving shepherd and his sheep speaks profoundly about how we can relate to God. It invites us to enjoy a relationship of intimacy and grace, finding true peace and contentment as we learn to depend on God day by day. Song of the Shepherd examines the psalm verse by verse and covers key issues in discipleship for both new and mature Christians learning how to rest in God, learning to trust God through the difficult times, and learning how to live from the resources God provides.
Our supply of Communion Wine is getting low. We are always grateful to those who donate bottle(s) of wine. We use Taylor Tawny Port, and we appreciate the smaller size bottles if available. Donations may be made in thanksgiving for, or in memory of a loved one. If you would like to help, please leave your donation in the office. Thank you.
Sept. 29 to Oct. 2
Cursillo is one of many renewal movements. Cursillo ("little course") brings people together at a lay-led retreat that deepens understanding of the faith and helps to renew and deepen Christian commitment. Many people have said Cursillo provides an important learning experience, which causes many to feel like newly-made Christians with a purpose and with support.
Cursillo Weekend #56 in the Diocese of Atlanta will be held Thursday evening, Sept. 29, through Sunday, Oct. 2. To apply for this weekend or learn more about it, contact one of our clergy, Carla von Hoffmann at 770-565-4122, Tracy Buckalew at 770-956-9609, or any of the many persons in our congregation who have attended this weekend.
Children's Chapel Volunteers needed
If you'd like to know the youngest members of our congregation, consider working with Children's Chapel at the 8:45 AM service, between the Gospel and the Peace (approx. 20 min.). Children between the ages of 2 and 9 are invited to leave the sanctuary and hear the Gospel and be touched by the Holy Spirit in a relaxed environment. Training and materials are provided. Please contact Mary Lou Shannonhouse, 770-973-2840, for more information.
WWW in October: The Faces and Places of Renewal
This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
Changing attitudes about and expanding ministries to diverse people are the focus of the renewal program for our rector, The Rev. Jim Nixon. (By diverse we mean people who are different from the majority of our congregation in terms of race, origin, sexual orientation, theology, economic status, politics, etc.) The opportunities outlined for intentional exploration and reflection give Fr. Jim the additional experience and insight and new ideas he needs to effectively lead us as we seek to follow the teaching of Jesus Christ to love one another as we love ourselves.
This is how the Sabbatical Planning team described our clergy renewal time to the Eli Lilly Foundation. Now that the formal time of renewal has come to an end, we invite you to gather during Wednesday evenings in October to reflect on the experience. Each evening we will look at one or more of the components of the renewal program through writing, pictures, discussion and storytelling. We'll spend some time, as well, discussing how this time should shape our visions for the future. Join us each evening at 7 PM immediately following dinner:
- October 5 -- Interaction with an Episcopal school that is purposely pursuing diversity.
- October 12 -- Time at a retreat center for reading, study, reflection, and writing.
- October 19 -- Immersion into the Spanish language and the Hispanic culture.
- October 26 -- Experiencing the Taizé community in France.
Be sure to hold the evening of October 15 for a congregational dinner to celebrate this time of renewal. Our dinner is a part of the Eli Lilly grant and we hope that every adult will be with us for this special time. Look for further information in the coming weeks.
November: The Perils of Parenting
Many forces shape and influence the development of children from conception through adolescence. For nearly all children, parents are the most powerful of these influences -- for better or for worse. The socialization of children involves modeling, nurturing, communication, monitoring, guidance, discipline, and occasional punishment a set of processes sometimes summed up as "love and limits". Most parents have considerable concern and many questions about the best ways to perform these functions.
Join us each Wednesday evening for a discussion of such topics as attention, respect, responsibility, monitoring, and siblings. We especially encourage parents of all age children (from infants to young children, to adolescents and to adult children) to join us each night so that we might all benefit from the collective wisdom of the community. Each week we ll discuss a different topic, we ll have materials to handout, and there will be expert discussion starters to help us get an overview of the topic at hand. But we ll always turn to the experience of our in-house experts to listen and discuss those things that work and those that don t work for you and your family.
WWW during Advent
Advent will provide the opportunity for us to gather as families in the Parish Hall following dinner on November 30, December 7, and December 14. During each of the three weeks we will participate in the creation of an Advent Craft or Advent Custom that will engage every member of the family.
On November 30 we will talk about the tradition of Advent Wreathes and each family will have the opportunity to make a wreath to take home. We will provide all the materials including meditations for each night of Advent. On December 7 we will work together as a larger family to make something special as a gift to help decorate our Sanctuary for Christmas.
We will finish our WWW Advent Program on December 14 as we celebrate Las Posadas, a Mexican custom in which as families we remember the pilgrimage Mary and Joseph made as they traveled to Bethlehem
These three nights should prove to be a very special time in our community. Be sure to mark your calendar and look forward to more information later this
WWW during Epiphany: Being the Light of Christ in the World
Epiphany is a time for rededicating ourselves to our own ministries and our missionary task to continue the spread of Jesus' light in the world. Each Sunday we are sent back into the world to love and serve the Lord. During Epiphany we will discover the many and vibrant ministries to our community and to the world. We will revisit our biblical mandate to be the light of Christ and the salt of the earth. We will then hear each week from one of the many ministries we participate in and support in our community, in the Diocese and in the world. This will be an exciting time for us to meet the wonderful staff from many of these ministries and for us to remember our own talents and gifts of the Spirit for mission and ministry. Join us as we celebrate our gifts and ask God to help us develop and offer them for the benefit of others.
Wednesday Evenings in Lent
Caring conversations, devotions, service, and ritual and traditions are the cornerstones of the "Frogs without Legs" for Lent Journey. Based on the book, Frogs without Legs Can't Hear, this weekly event provides a thematic presentation to help members and friends of the congregation, homes, small groups, and Bible study participants, into the life of the church that partners with us all into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is meant to be heard, received and lived in a way that shapes lives and welcomes others into God's reign of grace, mercy, and peace.
WWW in the Spring: The Da Vinci Code
Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code is a popular book that engages us in many ways including religious themes. Enormously popular (and enormously unpopular in certain circles), it is a fast paced, romantic thriller whose characters are bent on solving a mystery, along with revealing an ancient secret. The book has been criticized by scholars and church leaders as misrepresenting history. It has been enjoyed by many others as a story, perhaps by touching on some allegorical truths despite its rhetorical spin toward a specific message.
During the Great Fifty Days of Easter (April 16 - June 4, 2006) we will study this fascinating book. Using a variety of resources (books, papers, and DVDs) we will wonder together about the truth of the story and draw our own conclusions as a group and as individuals. We will also take the time to see the movie (premiering May 19, 2006) after we have studied the book. This will give us the opportunity to view this best-selling story through several senses. If you haven't read the book or want to re-read it before Easter this would be a good time to get started.
This January a long-standing tradition of St. Catherine's will return to our Parish Hall on Saturday evening, January 21, 2006. The Talent Show is a time for each of us to share those talents that we too often hide under those baskets of ours. Now's the time to start to brush up on the voice, the piano, the acting, the singing, the instrument, the poetry, etc. and be prepared to let your light shine in the season of Epiphany, all for the benefit of the work of MUST Ministries.
Mark's Gospel LIVE Coming in February 2006
We are bringing a wonderful show to St. Catherine's and our community during the season of Epiphany. Mark's Gospel LIVE has been performed throughout the United States and England. It is performed solo by the Rev. Joseph Morris of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Marietta. All of St. Mark's characters are portrayed as the story is narrated right from Biblical text. There are no other actors. It is not a reading or a talk. It is the actual words of the Gospel memorized and performed like storytelling.
The production is non-denominational. There is no bias for or against any particular form or expression of Christianity: It is Mark as it is in a combination of traditional and contemporary translations. Even someone who is not Christian will recognize Mark as a fine piece of ancient literary genius.
You can learn more about this exciting performance at Mark's Gospel LIVE.
Explorefaith.org is an Internet community of faith dedicated to providing information, thoughts and insights about God, faith and spirituality. Launched in 1999, explorefaith.org is a non-profit organization with a growing list of Partner Churches that support its mission and development. It offers a wide variety of materials to help you explore God's love, your faith, and the Church. You can read an extensive collection of essays and meditations, get daily devotions, or sign up for a weekly email reflection. You can even send a free ExploreFaith e-card.
Visit them today on the web: explorefaith.org
To Father Jim, Rev. Sherry, Father George, the Vestry and all Parishioners:
When I was in junior college, I helped coach a 7th and 8th grade parochial school football team. The people of that church accepted me as one of their own. Of course, they had a vested interest since I was working with their children. I've probably attended 20 or 30 churches since that time and never have I been made to feel so welcomed. Never that is until now. That football team was sponsored by St. Catherine's Roman Catholic Church.
When I was hungry, you fed me, thirsty, you gave me drink, lonely you comforted me. From the very first time I worshiped with you through the last Sunday, you have never treated me as a stranger but rather as a welcomed member of the family. Never once have you been over bearing or intrusive of my own personal space.
I was so looking forward to the fall activities as an opportunity to give back to St. Catherine's as well as a time of personal growth. Regrettably though, my career is taking me to Birmingham. The only hesitation I had when considering the new position was leaving this Parish and the people who call it home.
St. Catherine's is a very special place because of Her parishioners, vestry, clergy, Her educational opportunities, Her out reach programs and a multitude of other reasons. Her peoples' warmth will attract those who are in the cold. Please do not fear the growth for only the worthy will stay giving back more warmth than they took. You are truly, truly Christians.
For your acceptance, hospitality, support and friendship: THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
John W. Hawthorne, Jr. (August 30, 2005)
P.S.: Father George please forgive me for my closing
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From Jamie Harding, on her experience delivering St. Catherine's donations to MUST last weekend:
...We discovered Sunday that MUST ministry is sending the collections directly to the victims of the disaster... We made a big impact yesterday and I was proud of the fact that St. Cat's people helped unload a bunch of other cars, loaded donations from everyone, helped make boxes, etc. I will continue to get donations to MUST as needed. I let the logistics go on Saturday and put my trust in the fact that the hearts of the congregation would come through and all donations would get there. It worked so smoothly from Steve Diffley and his pickup to David Moore, Woodie and Ralph Patrick and all the other drivers.
Jamie
UBE Meeting
Bishop Alexander will be the guest at the next meeting of Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE), Atlanta Chapter, at 6:00 PM on Thursday, September 15, in the St. Luke's Room at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Atlanta. All black Episcopalians welcome!
You'll find information about UBE on the Internet at National UBE.
Mission Luncheon with the Global Mission Committee
Saturday, October 8 -- You are invited to attend a luncheon celebrating the mission of the church. Have you ever been on a mission trip? Want to go on a trip? Want to learn more about how to plan a trip? Resources? Ecuador? Rio de Janeiro? Tanzania? Honduras? Haiti? Come to share your experiences, hopes and dreams. Noon until 3 pm on October 8 at Lanier House of the Cathedral of St. Philip. Reservations are necessary and must be received by October 2. Please send your name, address, phone and/or email with your $10 check payable to Diocese of Atlanta, for Global Mission Luncheon, to Lucy Perry, 4755 Polo Lane, Atlanta, GA 30339.
8th Annual Church Cook-off
Sunday, October 16, at St. James Episcopal 
The 8th annual Church Cook-off is a community-wide event featuring area churches all vying to be recognized as the best cooks in Cobb County Churches prepare and serve samplings of their favorite dish to people attending the event. A People's Choice Award is given to the church who receives the most votes from those attending. The Chef's Choice Award is given to the church based on the unbiased option of the expert judges. Proceeds will benefit The Extension and their mission and ministry to the recovering homeless addicts of our community. Entry fee for churches is $25.00. Tickets for the event are $20.00. Children under 10 are free. There will be entertainment and special activities for the kids.
Sspecial added event: Silent Auction! Can you provide something for our silent auction? Can you help us solicit items? Call us at the number above and let us know that you can help make this the biggest and best Cook-off ever!
For complete information and registration visit The Extension
Faith's Craft Shoppe
November 12-13 at Faith Lutheran Church
Free parking and admission! Faith Lutheran Church on Lower Roswell Road, Marietta, will hold its annual Holiday Craft Sale on Saturday, Nov. 12, 9-5, and Sunday, Nov. 13, 1-5. Over 25 vendors will sell a wide variety of hand-crafted items in a spacious indoor facility. Food, drinks and bake sale items also available. Plan to get your Christmas shopping done early. Proceeds benefit a variety of mission projects including Lutheran Bible Translators, Educational Scholarships, Native American Missions, M.U.S.T. Ministries, Disaster Relief, and Lutheran Services of Georgia. Details and a map are on the Internet at Faith Craft Shoppe.
Next Dates -- September 25, November 6
Please check with the office for more information and to request the customary booklet about Holy Baptism.
SICK: Sharon Parisi, James, Lisa Arnold, Natalie May, Elaine York, Bill Fambrough, Julius, Scott Buxton, Alex Parisi, Lori Matteson, Curtis Bagby, Ruby Haney, Jan Sigmon, Cecil Selby, Kathy Dove, Charlie Thompson, Lori Gaddy & her family, Anisah, Deborah Guy & her mother, Ron Davidson, Judy Pagel, Bob Bibbings, Herb, Cynthia Sapero, Elaine Krupp, Velma Kutzbach, Shirley Childs, Karen Ann Mosso, Jean Hampton, Martha Lam, Beth Knight, Carroll Mitchell, Chuck Ivey
FOR THE DECEASED: Candy Levitt, Kris Cook's sister; Dexter Potter, Chris Potter's father.
SPECIAL PRAYERS: Defend all the men and women of our armed forces at home or abroad especially in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait that they will have a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be.
A Prayer for those whose lives have been affected by Katrina:
God of mercy and compassion, be in our midst and bind us together in your Spirit as a community of love and service to bear one another's burdens in these days as we face the ravages of storm and sea.
We remember especially the clergy and people of the Diocese of Alabama, Central Gulf Coast, Louisiana, and Mississippi. We pray especially for those who have lost their churches: St. Peter's, Gulfport; St. Mark's, Gulfport; Redeemer, Biloxi; Christ, Bay St. Louis; Trinity, Pass Christian; St. Patrick's, Long Beach and countless other we cannot name at this time.
For the family of Kim Wolfe; Bonnie & Earnie Chiasson; George Parks; Milton Wells; Garren Davenport; Selina Wells; Glenniece Davenport & Tatania Davenport, Adam Gates, George Sutton, Iris & Preston Lideaux, Donald & Lisa Hotard, Dennis & Sandy, Susan, Rick & Roz Kear/Josh & Chris Sudell, Jo & Hank Kelly
This we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord from whom alone comes our hope. Amen.
PARISH CYCLE OF PRAYER:
(9/18/05) --Greg, Sera, Gregory & Chase Forbes; David, Connie, Elizabeth & Jack Forestner; William Forrester; Flonnie Freeman, Ben, Molly, Claire & Ben Frost
(9/25/05) -- Ash, Jenny & Emma Gale; Knox Gale; Nelson & Emily Gale; Art, Anita, Geoffrey, Stuart & Caroline Gardner; Lynne & Bob Gates
HELP US HELP YOU
Please let the church know when you or a loved one has a medical procedure, an illness, a life transition, or other special need. We are here to serve you. Please allow us the opportunity to share your experience and offer our support. Simply contact the church office at 770-971-2839. Thank you.
| Monday, 9/12 | Monday, 9/19 | |||
| 12th-14th 3:30PM 6:30PM 6:30PM 6:30PM 7:00PM 7:30PM |
Sherry's Day Off Clergy Retreat Catechesis E.F.M. Men's Book Study Stewardship/Capital Girl Scouts Boy Scouts Troop 713 |
3:30PM 6:30PM 7:30PM |
Sherry's Day Off Catechesis E.F.M. Boy Scout Troop 713 |
|
| Tuesday, 9/13 | Tuesday, 9/20 | |||
| 10:00AM |
Staff Meeting Mothers & More Fellowship |
7:00AM 10:00AM 12:30PM 7:00PM |
Cobb County Elections Staff Meeting Clericus @ St. Cat's Vestry |
|
| Wednesday, 9/14 | Wednesday, 9/21 | |||
|
4:30PM |
|
4:30PM 6:00PM 6:45PM 7:00PM 7:00PM 7:45 PM |
Solemn Communion W.W.W. Youth Choir A.A. New Beginnings Programs & WNL Adult Choir |
|
| Thursday, 9/15 | Thursday, 9/22 | |||
| 6:30PM 6:30PM |
Women's Bible Study E.F.M. |
6:30PM 7:30PM 8:00PM |
E.F.M. Parish Life/Fellowship Joyful Journey |
|
| Friday, 9/16 | Friday, 9/23 | |||
| 10:00AM 8:00PM |
|
10:00AM 8:00PM |
Jim's Day Off Folders A.A |
|
| Saturday, 9/17 | Saturday, 9/24 | |||
| 8:30AM 8:30AM 5:30PM 7:00PM |
Men's Bible Study Finance Holy Eucharist Foyers Kickoff Dinner |
8:30AM 5:30PM |
Men's Bible Study Holy Eucharist |
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| Sunday, 9/18 | Sunday, 9/25 | |||
| 7:30AM 8:00AM 8:45AM 10:15AM 11:15AM 7:00PM |
Open Camera Time |
|
Holy Eucharist Breakfast Family Holy Eucharist Newcomer's Coffee Church School Choral Holy Eucharist /Baptisms Stewardship Team Dinner Stephen Ministers |
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St. Cat's Youth --
What we're about: Learning to know God and to live like Jesus.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE!!
IT LIVES!!!
Starting September 14, and every Wednesday Nite! Come for WWW dinner with families at 6 PM, program begins at 7 PM. We've got a great fall in store so BE THERE!!
Coming up...
- September 18 (7-8 PM) -- J2A parent mtg [J2A room]
- October 2 (4-5 PM) -- Rite 13 parent mtg [R13 room]
- October 28 (5-11 PM) -- J2A Eliz Inn & activities
- October 28 (6 PM) -- J2A Ceremony Rehearsal [Parish Hall]
- October 30 (8 -- 45 AM) -- J2A Ceremony
- November 5 (8 AM?) -- YAC hike to Amicalola
- November 11 (6-8 PM) -- J2A Spaghetti Dinner
- November 13 (4 PM) -- Rite-13 Labyrinth
Keep up with everything at the St. Cat's Youth Webpage
REMEMBER!
- Check the schedule -- It's changed recently, and may change again!
- Sign up early for things -- transportation space is limited!
Publication schedule:
September 23 -- print Wheel
October 7 -- eWheel
October 21 -- print Wheel
The Wheel — get every issue!
Does everyone in your family receive this eWheel, the electronic version of St. Catherine's newsletter? Is everyone subscribed? Email is becoming an important means for our parish communications. Just send the email addresses of everyone who would like get their own copy to Karen Manno at the email address below, note them on your bulletin, or contact the church office at 770-971-2829. You'll receive your online version via email, and you can find all current and prior issues of The Wheel on our website at www.stcatherines.org
Editor: Karen Manno
Email: karen stcatherines.org
Phone: 770-973-8668