St. Jude the Apostle Episcopal Church A Spiritual Oasis Where Lives are Transformed
Volume 23; Issue 04	May 2006

From the Rector

For the past few months, I have been signing many of my letters with the word Pace. Many people have assumed that this word means Peace and that I have forgotten the letter e. One parishioner thought that pace was the ablative case of peace in Latin. Pace is the Italian word for peace and since I am studying Italian, I thought I would integrate this language into my everyday use. Peace is one of the fruits of a Christ-centered life. Peace is the state of being that one attains with resurrection. Peace is an expression of Easter faith.

As I write this article during Easter Week, I am filled with peace and gratitude for my experience at St. Jude’s during Lent and Holy Week. As I looked out over the congregation on Easter Day and experienced the music, the delight, the prayers, and the people, my heart was deeply touched. I want to thank all of you for making this experience possible.

Many thanks to parish life and to all of the people who made soup, brought dishes of food to share, and helped clean up the parish hall after the events. Many thanks to the music program and to all of the musicians who worked overtime in order to bring a touch of the transcendent to our worship services. Many thanks to the chalice bearers, readers, acolytes, altar guild, flower guild, ushers, greeters, and sound technicians who supported the many services. Many thanks to all who helped with adult ed, youth & children’s programs, and to all of the teachers, coordinators, babysitters, and leaders. Many thanks to the property management crew and to all those who helped out on the work day. Many thanks to Nancy Allgeier and the office helpers who created and folded hundreds of bulletins. Many thanks to my clergy staff who worked hard in leading the services. Many thanks to the people of St. Jude’s who support this community of faith year after year so that we can grow in love and faith of the Lord and share our faith with others.

Now may the peace of God which passes all understanding fill your hearts and minds with the knowledge and love of God and of his son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Have a blessed Easter Season.

Did you know?

• Alesandro Fernandez-Gopal was baptized into the Body of Christ at the Easter Vigil.
• Jack Cretekos died this month at the age of 84. Jack was a key leader in the Cursillo movement.
• Grace Swartzfager died at the age of 99. A memorial service was held during Holy Week to honor her life and contribution to the Church.
• Mickey and Lily Shanabarger moved to Grand Junction, Colorado to begin their retirement.
• Don and Darlene Nash will be moving to Bend, Oregon next month to start a new chapter in their lives.
• The rector has been drafted to play first string varsity in a championship basketball game between the “Women Touched by Grace” and the Sisters of Our Lady of Grace Monastery (i.e. pastors vs. nuns)! Please pray for her survival. There is no second string.
• Linda Morris was one of several women honored for their outstanding contributions to the Diocese of El Camino Real at the Annual Spring Meeting on April 29, 2006. She received a personal invitation to be the guest of the ECW Board at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Salinas, and an Honored Woman certificate.
• Jerry Witherspoon was recently honored at a Red Cross Dinner for donating almost 22 gallons of blood.
• The annual Men’s Mountain Get-away is scheduled for the weekend of September 15 — 17. Mark your calendars now!
• Did you know St. Jude’s Youth hosted a fabulous Easter Sunday coffee hour with indoor Easter Egg Hunt for the young children? (We are still finding boiled eggs hidden in the oddest places ... smile!)
• Katy Sena and Claudia Mullin created the fabulous “SpringFest” banner hanging on the corner of Stelling and McClellan, advertising our neighborhood multicultural event.
• Did you know Sara Morris is graduating from Hofstra University, with plans to move to Manhattan and audition for BROADWAY?
• Did you know Sylvanus Bent III is graduating from Stanford University in early June?

Beyond Good Intentions
The Rev. Mary Blessing

Whoever you are, wherever you are on your journey of faith, you are welcome at St. Jude’s.

Each week we are greeted with this invitation to be a part of our worshipping community. Many new people have shared the deep significance this statement has, as they have felt welcomed here in ways they had not felt in other faith communities. We say this, and we mean it, and we intend to include all persons, whatever their faith journey. I am deeply pleased to see the growing presence of a diverse community, and for that I give thanks to God and you — to God for sending various persons here, to share their spiritual journeys with us, to you for receiving these persons and helping them move forward in their journey.

St. Jude’s has made wonderful strides in including people of all sorts of backgrounds. Yet there is one area of inclusivity that I and a few others wanted to learn more about: how to be a true ally to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) community. The National Episcopal Church drew attention to this question when lay and ordained delegates to convention accepted the ordination of a partnered gay bishop in the year 2003, but this has not been a “big deal” question for St. Jude’s. In many ways I am pleased that we just accept people as they are, as it seems Jesus did, without any fanfare.

However, I admit that I am not comfortable knowing how to respond to people (usually outside the Episcopal Church) who inquire about “my position” on this topic. Usually I try to listen to the person asking, and seek inner guidance on how I might best serve them pastorally to attend to their concerns, if any, and if they are sincere we “walk through” the discussion together. I usually seek understanding from what the Bible tells us of Jesus and his “position” on various issues, but the gospels are surprisingly silent on this specific topic. Clearly Jesus made every effort to include all persons, especially the marginalized. He accepted them along their spiritual journeys, then worked to move them to a closer relationship with God.

So, I took notice when The Church Divinity School of the Pacific (CDSP — the local Episcopal seminary) offered a Saturday workshop, “Beyond Good Intentions: Equipping the Ministries of Allies to LGBT People.” I wondered, “Is there something more to do besides just accepting people?” Then, I gathered a van-load of people and went to find out more.

What I discovered is the need for a major paradigm shift in how we function as an institution, much as the need to change institutional behavior regarding unconscious racism. Of course, the first step is to understand oneself, and from a place of awareness, learn to change unconscious behaviors as an individual, which helps change the institution. First and foremost, it is about being honest and speaking up against unfair treatment of others. It is the same justice issue Jesus faced when he stood up against the domination system that belittled women, children, the poor, the lame and the lost.

One of the most significant teachings I received at this training session was learning of the work of Chris Argyris, in his book, Overcoming Organizational Defenses: Facilitating Organizational Learning. Basically, Argyris shows how we are to move from “Model I” values: “seeking unilateral control,” “win” and “don’t upset people,” to “Model II” values: “valid information,” “informed choice” and taking “responsibility to monitor how choice is implemented.” If we are to be strong allies, we need to be well informed and be willing to speak our truths, and not worry about “winning” or “saving face.” As the workshop leaders said, “Ally work depends on our willingness to discuss what is undiscussable.” By our actions of inclusivity, we have faithfully embraced the LGBT community. But “Beyond Good Intentions” teaches that there is more we can do to use our voices to be stronger allies, and therefore become even more inclusive and more supportive, especially to young people in our midst who are discovering their sexuality as they grow along their spiritual journey from child to adulthood.

Learn more about “Beyond Good Intentions” by logging on to beyondgoodintentions.blogspot.com or read the handouts posted on the kiosk in our church entry way. You can also ask one of us who attended the workshop: Gordon and Claudia Mullin, Jean Shortal, Andrea Shortal or me.

Diocesan Communications
Linda Morris

• New Diocesan Website — The new website, which is still in transition, is www.edecr.org.
• The Peace & Justice Commission — passed a resolution on Immigration Reform and suggests that congregations send copies of it to our elected representatives. You can download it from www.edecr.org/peacejustice.htm. This is a PDF file, the first link under “Immigration Issues.” It is also posted on Ward’s Board in the Parish Hall.
• Diocesan Evaluation and Structure Committee — Read the April 4th DESC Progress Report at www.edecr.org/currentnews.htm. The DESC, along with the DFRC, will be sharing further progress and gathering input on diocesan structure and funding proposals on Tuesday, April 25th, 7 — 9 pm, St. Edward’s, San Jose, the first of three tri-deanery meetings. All are welcome.
• General Convention — Frank Snow will be representing the diocese at the national General Convention in June. Learn about the upcoming propositions and plans on Saturday, May 6th,10 — Noon at St. Andrew’s, Saratoga.
• Lay Leader Stewardship Workshop — Saturday, May 13th from 10am to 3pm — St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista. If you are interested haven’t signed up, contact Jeffrey Pugh.
• Habitat for Humanity Workday — There will be another workday to continue building the houses on the Murphy Ave. site in San Jose on Saturday, August 26th from 8 — 4 pm. If you are 14 or older and interested in working or if you are interested in helping with lunch, please contact Linda Morris.
• See the kiosk in the church entry (narthex) for the DESC Progress Report, current Administrator’s Update, and Habitat sign-up. For more information, contact Linda Morris.

Vestry Focuses on Evangelism and Demographics
Nancy Symons

At its April 18th meeting, the Vestry focused on evangelism and demographics. Pastor Karen opened the discussion by repeating St. Jude’s mission statement: “To restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ.”

Pastor Karen recalled that she inherited a 12-inch Christmas tree in a root-bound pot when she moved into the rectory 4 years ago. For 2 years, the tree never grew and became increasingly unhealthy. Two years ago, she had it transplanted outside her bedroom window. In the last 2 years, it has grown to 14 feet in height and the trunk is 12 inches in diameter. The rector said the Episcopal Church is like the good soil behind her house. It is rich in tradition; it is forgiving; it is good for new and mature plants; and it endures through drought and difficult times. We have wonderful people and a wonderful facility. How do we invite others in?

Linda Morris spoke on how we become a welcoming congregation, giving specific ideas on how to greet visitors, how to invite them back, and how to involve them in the life of the parish without being too heavy-handed. Many of the vestry signed up for the Deanery-wide Evangelism workshop at St. Jude’s on June 10th. If you would like to attend, please call Linda Morris for details.

Shirley Berg (standing in for Juneann McDonald) reported on the work of the Demographics Committee. In 2004, the Committee identified its two-prong mission: (1) opening the hearts and minds of the St. Jude’s congregation to all people in our community; and (2) reaching out to and inviting the surrounding community into St. Jude’s. Having conducted adult forums and other events to further the first goal, the committee is now moving into the second part of its mission. You are invited to the Spring Fest Multicultural Event with Entertainment on April 29th. There will be a multicultural potluck and wonderful entertainment. Please mark your calendars.

Spring Fest —
Multicultural Potluck and Entertainment
The Demographics/Force in the Community Group

Bring a dish from your culture to share, meet and greet families in our community, and enjoy multicultural entertainment on Saturday, April 29th from 1 — 5 pm at St. Jude’s. A potluck lunch will be shared from 1 — 2:30 pm. Children’s activities are planned. Invite your neighbors and friends and join in the fun! The tentative schedule of entertainment — some with audience participation — is:

• 2:20 pm — Music of the Spirit — gathering music in Parish Hall
• 2:30 pm — Music of the Spirit and St. Jude’s Adult Choir
• 2:45 pm — Filipino Stick Dancers — Holy Child Episcopal Church Youth
• 3:15 pm — Chinese Gu-Zheng Instrumentalist
• 3:30 pm — OSF (Organization of Special Needs Families) children
• 3:45 pm — Monta Vista High School Indian Club dancers
• 4:15 pm — Korean singers from Full Gospel Pentecostal Church
• 4:30 pm — St. Jude’s Youth Choir

Stephen Ministers To Be Commissioned May 7
Diane Snow

“Come follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. (Matt 4:19-20) On this day, we celebrate with three members of our congregation who have heard this call.

Joellen Stolarik, Mary Ann Phillips and Susan Lanser will be commissioned as Stephen Ministers at St. Jude’s during both services. Joellen, Mary Ann and Susan have the spiritual gifts to be a Stephen Minister and have participated in many hours of training learning how to carry out this ministry. Now they are ready to begin this caring ministry in our midst.

Who benefits from Stephen Ministry? Everyone benefits. Those receiving care from Stephen Ministers benefit because they receive support and prayer throughout the crisis they face. Stephen Ministers benefit through the spiritual growth they experience from being involved in meaningful ministry. Our pastors benefit because caring ministry is expanded and fewer people will slip through the cracks. Most of all you benefit from the knowledge that special care is available to you should you need it. In addition, you now have a place where you can refer a friend, neighbor, coworker, relative, or anyone else you know who is going through a difficult time so that they can receive special care when they need it most. Stephen Ministry makes St. Jude’s a much more caring place!

For more information about Stephen Ministry call Stephen Leaders: Diane Snow, Betsy Fox Fisher, or Jerry Witherspoon. Or talk with Pastor Mary or Pastor Karen. (Betsy is the referral coordinator.)

May Is Mental Health Month
Mary Souza

DID YOU KNOW THAT ...

• mental health is critical for our well-being and vitality as well as that of our families, communities and businesses; and
• the President’s New Freedom Commission declared that mental disorders and mental health problems affect people of all backgrounds and all stages of life, and no one is immune; and
• the World Health Organization found that mental illnesses rank first in terms of causing disability in the United States and, collectively, are the most prevalent health problem in America today — more common than cancer, lung and heart disease combined; and
• one in 10 children has a serious mental health disorder that, if untreated, can lead to school failure, physical illness, substance abuse and even suicide; and
• mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression and anxiety disorders are real, common and treatable illnesses; and
• the U.S. Surgeon General has found that a range of mental health treatments of documented efficacy exists for most mental disorders; and
• educating people on good mental health and removing stigma from mental illness through wellness, recovery and resiliency is enlightened action.
• Santa Clara County and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Santa Clara County, and their state and national partners observe Mental Health Month each May to raise awareness and understanding of mental health and illness.
• Efforts are being made to proclaim Mental Health Month in the many South Bay cities (including Cupertino) and to call upon all citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses and schools to join in the vision for community mental health care through wellness, recovery and resiliency.

Information from NAMI Santa Clara County’s proposed proclamation of Mental Health Month for cities. Lean more from the Social Justice page at: www.saintjudes.org.

Evangelism Workshop hosted by St. Jude’s
Linda Morris

Do we know our neighbors? What is the mission field in Santa Clara County? Rev. Canon Britt Olson, Canon for Evangelism and Congregational Growth, will help us answer these questions when she presents an Evangelism Workshop on Saturday, June 10th from 9 — 2 pm at St. Jude’s. This workshop, which we are hosting for the Tri-Deanery of our diocese, will provide practical tools on how to more effectively welcome and incorporate newcomers into the life of our congregation. There will also be up-to-date demographic information about the Santa Clara County area and people’s religious preferences, as well as suggestions for incorporating this multicultural diverse community into our congregation.

During the workshop it will be particularly useful for a group of people from our parish to come together so that we can focus specifically on the location and nature of our community.

There will be Biblically based instruction, discussion, activities, and prayer to make the topics interesting and memorable. Lunch will be included.

Please sign up on the kiosk or email the office at office@saintjudes.org or call the office at 408-252-4166 by June 2nd to make a reservation. (Include your name, phone number, and email address.) A head count is needed to prepare enough materials and lunch. If you are interested in helping with lunch or workshop preparations, or for more information, please contact Linda Morris.

Advanced Health Care Directives
Nancy Symons, Planned Giving

Back by popular demand, Betsy Carpenter returns to the Adult Forum at 9:15am on Sunday, June 25, to talk about Advanced Health Care Directives. Not only is Betsy highly qualified to discuss this subject, but she brings easy to use forms, and directs you to trained advisers for more sophisticated help. This adult forum is sponsored by St. Jude’s Planned Giving Committee/Endowment Board. Bring your friends!

What is an Advanced Health Care Directive, and why do you need one? Well-known financial advisor Suze Orman writes in Protection Portfolio:

As far as I’m concerned, the advanced directive and durable power of attorney for health care is the single most important document that you need to have in your portfolio. Most of the other documents that we’ll be discussing are more beneficial for your heirs and for the people that you leave behind after you die. This one is for you. It might be the most important document you ever sign ...

The advanced directive and durable power of attorney for health care directly affects the quality of your life and the quality of your death — the manner in which you leave this world ...

Not only are there spiritual, physical, and medical reasons for having an advanced health care directive, but there are financial implications of ensuring that you receive medical care consistent with your wishes. “... Having an advanced health care directive and durable power of attorney for health care is part of being responsible to your family, not only on an emotional level, but on a financial level as well.”

Mark June 25th on your calendars.

Adult Education for May
Bruce La Fetra

• May 7 — Musings from the Monastery VI
  Pastor Karen shares the wisdom and knowledge gained during her latest visit to the Monastery in Indiana as part of the “Women Touched by Grace” program.

• May 14 — No Forum

• May 21 — SOS: Stressed Out Students
  Dr. Mollie Galloway was originally scheduled to present at St. Jude’s in January, but was unable to join us on that day. We had a great forum led by Barbara Simmons that introduced us to the topic of stressed out students. As a result, Dr. Galloway will go into greater depth on the issues and potential solutions to student stress. Recent scholarship has found that adolescents are often compromising their mental and physical health, personal values, and commitment to learning as they try to cope with growing pressure to achieve in schools. In a survey released last year, local parents cited school-related stress among their top concerns for their children.

  Dr. Mollie Galloway from the Stanford University School of Education (SUSE) discusses the work begun at SUSE by Denise Clark Pope, author of Doing School: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic, and Miseducated Students (2001), developed the SOS program. According to Pope, while much research on school achievement, motivation, and stress has been conducted, few studies examine the students’ perspectives on these issues, and even fewer address the school communities’ experiences as they attempt to enact change on issues of academic stress. SUSE researchers are particularly interested in these issues, especially school reform efforts, where students work closely with parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators to foster change. The researchers also hope to create some specific tools that schools can use to address the problem of academic stress and increase student engagement in school.

• May 28 — No Forum

A Word of Thanks
Pat Coles

Reflecting on the past 2 months I realize that we have had at least eleven parish life events, soup suppers, receptions, brunches, etc! I believe that these were well done and demonstrated St Jude’s commitment to hospitality and fellowship. This is a note of thanks to everyone who participated by preparing food, serving, setting up, cleaning up, attending and removing garbage to discourage ant invasions. These events could not have happened without you all. THANK YOU! [And thank you, Pat; these events really could not have happened without you! — ed.]

The editors, Nancy and Allan Chapman, thank all of this month’s contributors and the always reliable and excellent production staff.

Updated 4/25/2006

Top of Page