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St. Jude the Apostle Episcopal Church

A Spiritual Oasis Where Lives are Transformed
Volume 21; Issue 10
November 2004

Last month, the vestry and I met for a wonderful retreat during which we set parish goals for 2005. We began the process by looking over the many goals that had been set during the past six years. We joyfully celebrated our successes. Some goals took more than one year to accomplish. But because of the generosity and hard work of the people of St. Jude’s, most of the goals were eventually accomplished. The few goals (that were not achieved) had mostly to do with growth in membership and attendance, or lack of funds or leadership. If you want to be amazed at all of the accomplishments that the people of St. Jude’s are responsible for, go to the Saint Jude’s website under Latest news or Overview of goals X6yrs

Our goals for 2005 fall under four categories. You will be receiving more detailed information about these goals in your stewardship package next week. The first category deals with enhancing the Spiritual Growth of the parish. Remember, our vision is: “St. Jude’s is a spiritual oasis where lives are transformed.” It is the power of the Holy Spirit that ultimately transforms the personality. Transformed people can transform the world. The second category involves the continual development of our long-range strategic plan. This plan outlines seven goals for the purpose of attracting people onto the St. Jude’s campus in order to spread the gospel of love that was shown to us by Jesus. The third category deals with strengthening our existing programs. And finally, property is our forth category. We have been blessed with 3 acres of buildings and grounds that require upkeep and new construction.

Over the past six years, the pledge income has increased from $236,207 in 1998 to $447,472 in 2004. The total budget for 2004 (which includes rental income) is $503,121. In other words, it costs about $1380/day to operate our parish church which includes support to the diocese and outreach to many caring organizations. I want to affirm the generosity of the people of St. Jude’s in supporting its ministries and mission. We are blessed with a wonderful community of folks who care enough to support a “mainline” church which strives for justice and peace among all people, and speaks out to defend the dignity of every human being. Whoever you are, wherever you are on your journey of faith, you are welcome here. Please prayerfully consider your pledge for next year.

 

Peace,

The Basic Bow
Rev. Karen Siegfriedt

This morning, an older parishioner called me up to let me know that she is having trouble finding a place to get a flu shot. As we spoke, she also expressed her concern about passing the peace with those who are coughing, sneezing, and blowing their noses. Since she is at high risk, she wanted to know how she could pass the peace without having direct contact. We began to brainstorm ideas and came up with the idea of the “basic bow.” If you are sick, have a cold, or are at risk, simply place your hands together in a prayerful gesture, make a small bow with your head, and say peace to the people around you. Be aware of people’s desire to protect themselves.

Also, remember the doctrine of concomitance. This means that a person gets full benefit of the sacrament by eating only the bread. The cup is always offered at Holy Communion but is not required. Simply cross your hands over your chest and the chalice bearer will hold the chalice at a distance.

Further advice from a nurse (i.e. me)! Wash hands frequently, cover mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, get plenty of rest, and be considerate of the health of your neighbors. If we all work together in being conscious of preventing the spread of viruses, we can look forward to a health-filled winter.

Did You Know?

Stewardship of our Souls
The Rev. Mary B. Blessing

Jesus said, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, will find it. For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life?” (Matthew 16: 24-26) All four gospels report this paradoxical statement from Jesus. Chances are, he really meant it.

Jesus did not merely advise people to do good works and love people, although these are worthy. Jesus asked us to “take up our cross”, that is, to be willing to die as he died, offering our total selves, all of who we are, to God. When we offer our whole selves to God, we can begin the process we call “spiritual transformation.” This spiritual transformation is what Paul would call “new life in Christ.”

Some of you may find what I am about to write very offensive. You may think it judgmental or foolish, but I have witnessed spiritual transformation of people who have taken this kind of leap of faith. I believe it is true.

One of the signs of a person’s willingness to truly “lose their life for Jesus’ sake” is the person’s willingness to trust God enough to give a significant portion of one’s material wealth to God’s work. Many of us are willing to give our time and talent to God’s work, yet struggle to give a significant portion of our treasure. The Bible has set the “tithe”, or 10% of your earnings, as the standard of giving. It is not a “rule” like “thou shall tithe,” nor is it a threat “tithe or go to Hell”, or “if you don’t tithe you are living in sin”. It is the standard set by Biblical Patriarchs. For instance, as he set up the final stone for an altar to God, Jacob said, “…and of all that you give me, I will surely give one tenth to you.” Genesis 28:22. Frankly, 10% is a bargain compared to some New Testament Christian leaders who expected people to give ALL of their possessions to the faith community. (Peter’s expectation of Ananias, Acts 5:5)

Now, some may ask, why give 10% to the Church? Why not give a portion to the Church, and a portion to other agencies who care for the poor, the hungry, the outcast? Giving to social outreach programs is worthy. But, if we are to “lose our life for JESUS’ sake”, if we are to have influence over the spread of the Christian message of new life, then we must give materially to specific work of Christ in the world, which is the Church. You may observe non-Christian agencies doing Christ-like work, but not naming “Christ” at the center of their work. But if your life has truly been transformed by Christ, you will want to give to the “agency” that specifically names Christ at the center of their work—ie. the Church. As I have said before, lots of people who are not Christian give to save whales, but only a few willing to spread Jesus’ gospel. The church is the place where we experience the incarnate presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist. The church is the place where we build the Body of Christ. If Christ’s body is to grow, we must support it with time, talent and treasure.

Tithing is a spiritual discipline. It is a habit we form as we make a decision to get over our anxiety about money. Just as we choose to pray each day, or read scripture and meditate, our spiritual discipline to give to God’s work brings us closer to God. Why not try it? You just might like it.

Financial Stewardship at St. Jude’s
Don Disney

November is the time that we at St. Jude’s traditionally focus our attention on financial stewardship. During the Sunday services this month, we will have sermons offering perspectives from three different clergy on this topic. We will also hear from three of our parishioners during the Epistle readings. Please also watch for the stewardship-theme bulletin board coming soon to the Narthex. Most importantly, be sure to join us for a grand celebration of our blessings at the Harvest Dinner, to be held in the parish hall on Thursday, November 4 th. There will be no charge for the dinner, and it will include excellent presentations by one of our parishioners and a guest speaker. If you plan to attend, please sign up on the list that is posted on the kiosk in the Narthex. Finally, you will receive a pledge packet early in November. Please complete your pledge card and return it to the church office (or place it in the collection basket) before Thanksgiving Day. As stewardship minister and a member of the vestry, I am very grateful for the growth in financial support that we have experienced over the past few years. I look forward to continued growth in our pledge income this year, and to the new possibilities for ministry that are enabled by your generosity.

Together We Can; A Six-Month Report to the Diocese
Linda Morris

Since April 1 st, the Standing Committee and other diocesan leaders have been working to stabilize the diocese by focusing on rekindling trust, building teamwork, and improving our structures. The vision is of a diocesan family working together committed to mutual ministry and mutual accountability and a diocese that operates effectively and efficiently, incorporating the particular gifts and skills our new bishop may bring. There is a commitment to honesty and transparency and all are invited into the dialogue. The process is described in the full report, which can be read on The Diocesan Website , but a discussion of these topics is included:

1. Restore trust and teamwork; establish clear communication and build a collaborative working team

2. Repair and improve our structures

Property Highlights

Tom Dyer

Church rain gutters have been recently upgraded to avoid flooding just in time for our recent winter storms.

Fall Cleanup- November 20th. Once again we will make our facilities shine and ready for winter. Tasks are being prepared by project team leaders and include “pew patrol”, church and parish hall window washing, replacing smoke alarm batteries and light bulbs, painting parish hall walls, along with orchard pruning. Mark your calendar now.

Vestry Highlights
Shirley Burg

The St. Jude’s Vestry met Tuesday, October 19, 2004. The meeting began with a Healing Service in the church and recessed to the Fireside Room for the business meeting.

The focus of the meeting was the Mutual Ministry Review. The members of the Vestry presented brief descriptions of the ministries, projects and goals they have been working on in 2004.

Pastor Karen then presented the Rector’s Report. She began by describing the basis on which she sets her priorities, focus of efforts and allotment of time. She then described the specific tasks and ministries that she is engaged in including preaching, teaching, staff/lay ministry oversight, pastoral care, liturgies, program administration/management, study, prayer, writing as well as diocesan responsibilities. A discussion then took place focusing on visioning for 2005 and challenges in ministry.

The Vestry approved the advance purchase of St. Jude shirts (denim and polo) to be made available for purchase by members of the congregation.

Living into the Future: Embracing the Possibilities  – November 13th
Linda Morris

The Conference Planning Team, consisting of nine clergy and lay people representing every deanery in our diocese, is looking forward to the conference on Saturday, November 13th entitled, “Living Into the Future: Embracing the Possibilities.”  All laity and clergy in the diocese are cordially invited to this first in a series of meetings where we will be discerning a new vision and mission for our diocese.  At the November conference, clergy and laity will hear from the Rev. Ron Reed and Mr. Dale Simison about what “shared ministry” means and just what the roles are for the clergy, the laity, and the bishop.  Having come to an understanding of what shared ministry is, our diocese will then be able to conduct a series of conversations around what kinds of ministry we can do and how we might do ministry differently in the future.  These conversations will definitely impact how we use our money, both at the congregational and diocesan levels. The conference will be held at St. Paul’s Church, Salinas, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with Registration & Coffee beginning at 9:30 a.m. A working lunch will be provided ($5 donation accepted). Please contact Susan Altig at the Diocesan Office saltig@redshift.com to register (by 11/8 if you want childcare, listing age & gender of child(ren). If you want to carpool, contact Linda Morris .

Adult Education in August
Bruce La Fetra

Adult Forum: "Is Your House in Order or ‘Where is My Will?’" - Sunday, November 7, 2004
Nancy Symons

The Planned Giving Committee is continuing its series of seminars on retirement and estate planning issues. On Sunday, November 7, 2004, Diane Snow and Nancy Symons will present an adult forum on organizing your important documents. This seminar will give you an itemized list of which documents you need to assemble for your heirs, what to do if any of these documents is lost or misplaced, the legal requirements on how long you have to retain documents such as tax returns, and how to protect your identity from theft.

Organization of your important documents is a task that many of us think about but never get “around to.” You have a choice: pay good money to get this information from Suze Orman or hear it for free from Nancy and Diane.

Put November 7 on your calendar and quit procrastinating!!!!

November Choir Rehearsal Changes
Linda Morris

Because of various conflicts with Thursday night rehearsals in November, these will be the rehearsal dates, all beginning at 7:15 pm:

The editors would like to thank Allan Chapman for his assistance. We would also like to thank the faithful production crew that copies, folds, labels, and mails The View each month.

Updated 11/18/2004
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