Friday Reflections March 7, 2014

09. March 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Bishop, Friday Reflections · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Friday Reflection Title
3-7-2014
Lent is a season of reflection that begins on Ash Wednesday (March 5) and concludes on Easter (April 20).
The following is the Presiding Bishop’s Lent Message 2014.
The reality is that the season of Lent, which Christians have practiced for so many centuries, is about the same kind of yearning for greater light in the world, whether you live in the Northern Hemisphere or the Southern Hemisphere.
The word “Lent” means “lengthen” and it’s about the days getting longer. The early Church began to practice a season of preparation for those who would be baptized at Easter, and before too long other members of the Christian community joined those candidates for baptism as an act of solidarity.
It was a season during which Christians and future Christians learned about the disciplines of the faith – prayer and study and fasting and giving alms, sharing what they have.
But the reality is that, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, the lengthening days were often times of famine and hunger, when people had used up their winter food stores and the spring had not yet produced more food to feed people. Acting in solidarity with those who go hungry is a piece of what it means to be a Christian. To be a follower of Jesus is to seek the healing of the whole world.
And Lent is a time when we practice those disciplines as acts of solidarity with the broken and hungry and ill and despised parts of the world.
I would invite you this Lent to think about your Lenten practice as an exercise in solidarity with all that is – with other human beings and with all of creation. That is most fundamentally what Jesus is about. He is about healing and restoring that broken world.
So as you enter Lent, consider how you will live in solidarity with those who are hungry, or broken, or ill in one way or another.
May you have a blessed Lent this year, and may it yield greater light in the world.
The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church
“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”
For Lent…
Walk through Lent with beautiful daily devotions,
The Lent App (for iPhone)
Illustrated with art by the inimitable Roger Hutchison, author of The Painting Table, and inspirational daily reflections by beloved author and Spiritual Director Mary C. Earle provide food for the journey. A built in journal function lets you record your own thoughts, and you can share Scripture, the daily image, or your own thoughts via email or social media.
Learn More
GOOD FRIDAY OFFERING
Since 1922, Episcopalians have supported the ministries of the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East through the Good Friday Offering. Through the work of the Episcopal dioceses in the Middle East, Christians maintain a peacemaking and stabilizingpresence in the region, serving their neighbors regardless of faith background.
To make a donation to the Good Friday Offering, please write a check payable to the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society, write “Good Friday Offering” in the memo line, and mail to:
DFMS – Protestant Episcopal Church US
P.O. Box 958983
St. Louis, MO 63195-8983
Click here for Good Friday Offering Resources
Call to Special Convention…
Dio seal
The Recognition and Seating
of the
Provisional Bishop
The Rt. Rev. David Rice
March 29, 2014
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield
2216 17th Street
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Click here for Special Convention Schedule
Check here for Special Convention Registration Form
Still accepting reservations till March 14, 2014
Invitation to Sing at Special Convention…
The Choir of St. Paul’s Church in Bakersfield and director, Christopher Borges, would like to invite members of the Diocese to participate with them in singing at the service for the Seating of Bishop David Rice on Saturday, March 29. There will be a rehearsal that Saturday morning at 11am in the Choir Room.
If you are interested in singing with them, please contact Fr. Vern at [email protected] for an email advance copy of the music.
For Northern Deanery…
TAKE THE BUS TO CONVENTION!
This Saturday’s Northern Deanery Meeting will be the last opportunity to insure the discounted $50 around trip rate to the March 29th Special Diocesan Convention in Bakersfield. Remaining reservations after this Saturday will increase to $65. Remember the coach departs Modesto’s Vintage Faire Mall Park and Ride on the 29th at 5:30 AM returning to Modesto that evening. On your luxury coach there will be a continental breakfast in the morning, with libations and snacks for the return trip. Reservation agents will be on hand at the Deanery meeting to help with your payment and answer questions, or they can be contacted at (209)-869-1075. See you on the bus!
People News…
The Rev. Keith Brown has been appointed as Interim Priest at St. John’s, Tulare.
The Southern Deanery recently elected new officers. Their new President is Marilyn Metzgar of St. Paul’s, Bakersfield.
The Rev. Heather Muellerof St. Andrew’s, Taft has been elected the new Vice-President.
Richard Hendricks of St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest is the new Secretary.
Thanks to all who completed a term and thanks to the newly elected for being willing to serve.
For Youth EYE…
Episcopal Youth Event 2014
WHO:
Anyone in high school during 2013/14 year
WHEN:
July 9 – July 13, 2014
WHERE:
Villanova
University, Philadelphia, PA
WHAT?
The upcoming event marks the twelfth EYE, which remains a popular and well-attended event. EYE14 is geared for youth in grades 9-12 during the 2013-2014 academic year and their adult leaders. The cost for EYE is $325. Included are transportation to/from the Philadelphia airport, your room, meals, event T-shirt, and activities. Transportation to Philadelphia is extra.
ADD-ON
3 Days of Urban Mission is offered for all EYE14 participants. It is an event designed to give delegates an opportunity to engage mission in an urban environment. The participation criteria for EYE14 continue to apply throughout 3 Days of Urban Mission.
Participants should expect to engage in hands-on labor, which might include everything from painting and hauling debris to childcare and preparing meals. Participants should bring work clothes, work gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
3 Days of Urban Mission will commence with preparatory training and evening prayer at 8 p.m. on Sunday evening, July 13, and will end of Tuesday, July 15, with an evening worship service.
The cost is $275, which includes three nights of lodging (including pillows and linens), meals on Monday and Tuesday, and a breakfast to-go on Wednesday morning. Delegates will register for 3 Days of Urban Mission online with EYE14 registration
So are YOU ready to go?
Next step is to contact your priest or youth director and let them
Click here for EYE Flyer
Click here for EYE Registration Form
From the Diocesan Office…
Since you have asked….
Bishop David now has an email and it is: [email protected]
All mail for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, Bishop, Canon, and Administrator
is to go to the current address: 1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355
Time sensitive material can be emailed to [email protected] or
faxed to 209-576-0114.
Attention Clergy!
Please get your forms in this week!
All forms sent to you in January via the post office were due to the Diocesan Office by February 27th. The forms are also on our website: www.diosanjoaquin.org.
The following forms are past due:
2013 Parochial Report . Congregational Contact Form
2014 Certificate of Lay Delegate Form . Disaster Preparedness Form
Many thanks to
Holy Trinity, St. Raphael, St. James and St. Clare of Assisi
for having all forms completed and turned in!!
IONA: A CELTIC PILGRIMAGE OF RENEWAL, July 12-19, is a weeklong retreat for clergy and lay leaders who are renewing our congregations and restoring our world, held at Bishop’s House on the sacred Hebridean island of Iona in Scotland. Application deadline: March 31. More details click on “Iona Retreat”.
Whats going on…
Want to know what is happening in the Diocese of San Joaquin?
Northern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 8, 2014, 10:00 a.m., St. Anne’s, Stockton
Central Deanery Meeting, Sunday, March 16, 2014, 3 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
Special Convention, Saturday, 11:00 a.m. March 29, 2014, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
Registration starting at 9:30 a.m.
Chrism Mass, Tuesday, April 15, 2014, 11.00 a.m. Church of the Saviour, Hanford
Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto
Click on the link below to see upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.
Meetings and Events
From Our Parishes and Missions…
YOU ARE INVITED
on Saturday March 15th to
SAINT PAT’S AT SAINT MATT’S
from 5:00-7:00 pm at Saint Matthew’s Church in San Andreas
to enjoy a traditional Irish Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner
The donation is $ 7.00 and the money raised goes to
The American Cancer Society Relay for Life
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
414 Oak Street, San Andreas, CA
209-754-3878
EVERY FRIDAY IN LENT
PARISH LENTEN DEVOTIONS
6 pm STATIONS OF THE CROSS
and
BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
(followed in the Parish Hall with a Soup Supper)
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
414 Oak Street,
San Andreas, CA
209-754-3878
SAVE THE DATE!!
Christ the King Episcopal Church, Riverbank
will be hosting YOU at our Ladies’ Tea to be held on Saturday May 3rd. Put this important date on your calendars!! There will be food, music, raffles, prizes for best tables, and even a fashion show. Tickets will be available soon!! Watch this space for more info.
For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here
Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars…
Bishop Talton’s Calendar
March 29 Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
Bishop Rice’s Calendar
March 8 Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
March 9 St. James, Sonora
March 16 St. Paul’s, Visalia
March 16 Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
March 29 Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
March 30 St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
March 9 St. Anne’s, Stockton
March 16 Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
March 29 Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
March 30 St. Andrew’s, Taft
Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
NEW Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org
Click here: Our Website
Contributions to the Friday Reflection are most welcome and are due by the Tuesday before the Friday Reflection is scheduled to go out. Articles are to be submitted in word document format and pictures in jpeg format for best results.
Contact Information: Ellen Meyer
[email protected]

San Joaquin Diocese Northern Deanery Meeting March 8,2014

08. March 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Bishop, Diocese Of San Joaquin, Leadership · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

St Anne Hosted the Northern Deanery Meeting and Bishop David Rice and his wife Tracy were in attendance. He shared his passion and vision for the future of the San Joaquin Diocese and took questions from those in attendance. He is both inspired and inspiring with his plans to see our congregations reaching out into the community.  He received an enthusiastic welcome and we shared a delicious lunch.
 

 

 
 

St. Anne Pub Night 2014

28. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Pub Night · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Welcome Incoming Bishop David Rice To The San Joaquin Diocese

28. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Bishop · Tags: , , , , , , ,



2-28-2014
Over the years, there has been an inordinate amount of ink spilt on the significance of first impressions, what I have typically coined as the image of the “shop-front-window.” These impressions and images can leave rather indelible and memorable imprints upon our lives.
Our first encounter of San Joaquin, and I hasten to add impression, was the moment Tracy and I walked through Customs in SF Airport and awaiting us was our Diocesan Chancellor, Michael Glass. Michael acted as chauffeur and tour guide throughout our journey from SF to Fresno. Michael, I wish to say to you and before the readers of this installation of The Friday Reflection, you provided an absolutely wonderful introduction to and impression and image of San Joaquin for us. Thank you.
Upon our arrival in Fresno and following a most welcomed night of sleep, we were greeted by Canon Kate. Kate was immediately warm and welcoming, not-to-mention, exceedingly helpful in the ways in which she offered gentle guidance and counsel and care. Thank you Kate.
We next met Ellen Meyer in the office at St. Paul’s in Modesto and how wonderful it was to attach the voice and written words to the person. Thank you Ellen for the lovely and efficient ways you have prepared for and given attention to our arrival and beginning in SJ.
Our first occasion in the diocese was Pub-Night at St. Anne’s, Stockton. I want to express my appreciation for and congratulations to Rev’d Lyn and everyone who contributed to this stunning event. On the night we experienced much laughter, singing of very familiar songs and we even enjoyed imbibing a good ole English ale or two. What fun it was, thank you Lyn and everyone from St. Anne’s.
Sunday morning was my first “visitation” and said visitation was at St. John the Baptist, Lodi. It would be completely-and-utterly remiss of me if I didn’t say, San Joaquin, you could not have scripted this any better. The welcome and reception and hospitality were, well in a word, extraordinary! Rev’d Elaine, to you and everyone who contributed to this marvelous “first-visitation” experience, many thanks. And thank you to the people of St. John the Baptist for the assortment of wine (Go Lodi!) and the other gifts.
And of course there was Sunday afternoon at St. Paul’s in Modesto. The Service of Dedication and Celebration was beautifully crafted and I trust the liturgy reflected the hope and aspirations of The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin. To Rev’d Kathleen and to everyone at St. Paul’s, thank you, thank you, three times thank you for the noteworthy day that was.
I also want to seize this opportunity to thank my soon-to-be predecessor Bishop Chet for his generosity and grace in ensuring that this transition is as seamless and healthy as possible. Thank you +Chet. I will endeavor to continue the wonderful work you offered to SJ and Bishop Jerry before you. And I also wish to offer words of appreciation and gratitude to Rev’d Michele and the Standing Committee for the many ways in which you helped us to “Hear what the Spirit was saying to us” as we discerned the possibility of shifting to San Joaquin. Your words of hope, enthusiasm and encouragement certainly made “praying to this point” far easier. Thank you.
So, as far as first impressions and images are concerned, the “shop-front-window” is full of promise. Rich hospitality, genuine care, significant laughter and sincere hope speak well of us and will continue to serve us well and all of God’s People now and in the days before us.
Lastly, in the words of the Presiding Bishop which she expressed to me on Sunday,
“Now, let’s get to work!”
Blessings
+David Rice

Friday Reflections February 28, 2014

28. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Friday Reflections · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 The Friday Reflection Title

 2-28-2014

 
Over the years, there has been an inordinate amount of ink spilt on the significance of first impressions, what I have typically coined as the image of the “shop-front-window.” These impressions and images can leave rather indelible and memorable imprints upon our lives.
 
Our first encounter of San Joaquin, and I hasten to add impression, was the moment Tracy and I walked through Customs in SF Airport and awaiting us was our Diocesan Chancellor, Michael Glass.  Michael acted as chauffeur and tour guide throughout our journey from SF to Fresno.  Michael, I wish to say to you and before the readers of this installation of The Friday Reflection, you provided an absolutely wonderful introduction to and impression and image of San Joaquin for us.  Thank you.
 
Upon our arrival in Fresno and following a most welcomed night of sleep, we were greeted by Canon Kate.  Kate was immediately warm and welcoming, not-to-mention, exceedingly helpful in the ways in which she offered gentle guidance and counsel and care.  Thank you Kate.
 
We next met Ellen Meyer in the office at St. Paul’s in Modesto and how wonderful it was to attach the voice and written words to the person.  Thank you Ellen for the lovely and efficient ways you have prepared for and given attention to our arrival and beginning in SJ.
 
Our first occasion in the diocese was Pub-Night at St. Anne’s, Stockton.  I want to express my appreciation for and congratulations to Rev’d Lyn and everyone who contributed to this stunning event.  On the night we experienced much laughter, singing of very familiar songs and we even enjoyed imbibing a good ole English ale or two.  What fun it was, thank you Lyn and everyone from St. Anne’s.
 
Sunday morning was my first “visitation” and said visitation was at St. John the Baptist, Lodi.  It would be completely-and-utterly remiss of me if I didn’t say, San Joaquin, you could not have scripted this any better. The welcome and reception and hospitality were, well in a word, extraordinary!  Rev’d Elaine, to you and everyone who contributed to this marvelous “first-visitation” experience, many thanks.  And thank you to the people of St. John the Baptist for the assortment of wine (Go Lodi!) and the other gifts.
 
And of course there was Sunday afternoon at St. Paul’s in Modesto.  The Service of Dedication and Celebration was beautifully crafted and I trust the liturgy reflected the hope and aspirations of The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin.  To Rev’d Kathleen and to everyone at St. Paul’s, thank you, thank you, three times thank you for the noteworthy day that was.
 
I also want to seize this opportunity to thank my soon-to-be predecessor Bishop Chet for his generosity and grace in ensuring that this transition is as seamless and healthy as possible.  Thank you +Chet.  I will endeavor to continue the wonderful work you offered to SJ and Bishop Jerry before you.  And I also wish to offer words of appreciation and gratitude to Rev’d Michele and the Standing Committee for the many ways in which you helped us to “Hear what the Spirit was saying to us” as we discerned the possibility of shifting to San Joaquin. Your words of hope, enthusiasm and encouragement certainly made “praying to this point” far easier.  Thank you.
 
So, as far as first impressions and images are concerned, the “shop-front-window” is full of promise.  Rich hospitality, genuine care, significant laughter and sincere hope speak well of us and will continue to serve us well and all of God’s People now and in the days before us.
 

Lastly, in the words of the Presiding Bishop which she expressed to me on Sunday,

“Now, let’s get to work!”
 
Blessings
+David
 

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery…

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

Get your reservation in! 

 

The “Party” Bus to Special Convention Continues to Fill! 

 

Take off is 5:30 a.m. on March 29th from the Park and Ride lot on the west side of Vintage Faire Mall in Modesto. March 8th remains the cutoff date for the $50 rate. All reservations after the 8th (if available) go to $65.00 until the bus is filled. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in this Special Convention at one of the diocese’s newly returned churches.  For information and reservations contact (209) 869-1075, or  [email protected]. Be there or be square!

 

                 

For Youth EYE…

Episcopal Youth Event 2014

WHO:

       Anyone in high school during 2013/14 year

WHEN:    

July 9 – July 13, 2014

WHERE:  

Villanova
University, Philadelphia, PA

WHAT?    

The upcoming event marks the twelfth EYE, which remains a popular and well-attended event.  EYE14 is geared for youth in grades 9-12 during the 2013-2014 academic year and their adult leaders.  The cost for EYE is $325.  Included are transportation to/from the Philadelphia airport, your room, meals, event T-shirt, and activities. Transportation to Philadelphia is extra.

ADD-ON

    3 Days of Urban Mission is offered for all EYE14 participants. It is an event designed to give delegates an opportunity to engage mission in an urban environment. The participation criteria for EYE14 continue to apply throughout 3 Days of Urban Mission.

Participants should expect to engage in hands-on labor, which might include everything from painting and hauling debris to childcare and preparing meals. Participants should bring work clothes, work gloves, and closed-toe shoes.

 
 

3 Days of Urban Mission will commence with preparatory training and evening prayer at 8 p.m. on Sunday evening, July 13, and will end of Tuesday, July 15, with an evening worship service.

 

The cost is $275, which includes three nights of lodging (including pillows and linens), meals on Monday and Tuesday, and a breakfast to-go on Wednesday morning. Delegates will register for 3 Days of Urban Mission online with EYE14 registration

 

So are YOU ready to go?

Next step is to contact your priest or youth director and let them

 

Click here for EYE Flyer
                 Click here for  EYE Registration Form

 

From ECF Fellows…

 

The ECR Fellows application deadline is March 14, 2014
 
Dear Friends,
The application deadline for ECF’s Fellowship Partners Program is less than one month away. As theMarch 14 deadline draws near, we are asking that all our friends and colleagues consider whether they know of an innovative scholar or ministry leader, lay or ordained, whose work fills them with a sense of hope. If so, please forward this email to them and let them know about ECF’s Fellowship Partners Program, a program that has been building a vibrant network of scholars and ministry leaders across the Church for 50 years.
Here are a few things we ask all applicants to bear in mind:

·   ECF is committed to strengthening the leadership of lay and ordained members of the Episcopal Church.  All applicants to the academic and ministry tracks are asked to describe how they plan on developing the next generation of lay and ordained leaders for the Episcopal Church, whether this is in the context of academia, a local congregation, through a church-wide initiative, or in another setting.
·   ECF is a lay-led organization of the Episcopal Church.  ECF is especially looking for scholars and ministry leaders who incorporate lay leadership development into their work. All members of the Church, whether lay or ordained, are invited to apply.
·   An ECF Fellowship provides both financial support and networking opportunities. ECF has typically awarded three to four Fellowships per year. New awards range up to $15,000 for the first year and are renewable for an additional two years. In addition to this financial support, new Fellows join a wide network of past Fellows and ECF partners with them so that they may share their knowledge, experience, and best practices with the wider Church.
Please visit the ECF website to learn more about the Fellowship Partners Program, the application process, and be sure to review our list of Frequently Asked Questions. You will find profiles of the 2013 Fellows here and our complete list of all ECF Fellows here. Please email me or my colleague Brendon Hunter, Assistant Program Director, should you have any questions about this program or the application process.
All of us at ECF are excited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Fellowship Partners Program, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming and announcing the 2014 class of Fellows in late May.
 
Faithfully,
 
Miguel Escobar
Program Director, Leadership Resources

From the Diocesan Office…

Heartfelt thanks go to to all who assisted with the Dedication and Celebration of Bishop David this last Sunday. The event was a huge success. Many thanks also go to all those who attended and celebrated this very special day in our diocese.

 All mail for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin,

Bishop, Canon and Administrator

is to go to the current address:

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

 

Dio seal

If there is anything time sensitive

please email

emeyer@diosanjoaquin

or fax:

209-576-0114

 

Attention Clergy!
A Friendly Reminder
DUE YESTERDAY!
All forms sent to you in January via the post office are due to the Diocesan Office by February 27th. The forms are also on our website: www.diosanjoaquin.org.
The following forms are due:
2013 Parochial Report . Congregational Contact Form
 2014 Certificate of Lay Delegate Form . Disaster Preparedness Form
Many thanks to

Holy Trinity, St. Raphael, St. James
for having all forms completed and turned in!!

Whats going on…

Want to know what is happening in the Diocese of San Joaquin?
Click on the link below to see upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

   YOU ARE INVITED

on Saturday March 15th to

SAINT PAT’S  AT  SAINT MATT’S

from 5:00-7:00 pm at Saint Matthew’s Church in San Andreas

to enjoy a traditional Irish Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

The donation is $ 7.00 and the money raised goes to

   The American Cancer Society Relay for Life
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
414 Oak Street, San Andreas, CA
209-754-3878 

 

ASH WEDNESDAY 

 

Begin your Lenten Journey with us at Saint Matthew’s Church in San Andreas

NOON  —  LOW MASS   (with the imposition of ashes)

5 — 5:30 pm  Confessions will be heard at the Altar Rail

6 pm  SOLEMN MASS  (with the imposition of ashes)

EVERY FRIDAY IN LENT

PARISH LENTEN DEVOTIONS

6 pm  STATIONS OF THE CROSS
and

BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

(followed in the Parish Hall with a Soup Supper)

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

414 Oak Street,

San Andreas, CA

209-754-3878

 

SAVE THE DATE!!
Christ the King Episcopal Church, Riverbank
will be hosting YOU at our Ladies’ Tea to be held on Saturday May 3rd. Put this important date on your calendars!!  There will be food, music, raffles, prizes for best tables, and even a fashion show. Tickets will be available soon!!  Watch this space for more info.

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars… 

Bishop Talton’s Calendar
 
March 29                         Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
Bishop Rice’s Calendar
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest
 
March 5                             Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. James, Sonora
 
March 16                           St. Paul’s, Visalia
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. John’s, Tulare
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 Have you checked it out?

Keep up to date on news and events with our
NEW Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org
Click here:  Our Website  
Contributions to the Friday Reflection are most welcome and are due by the Tuesday before the Friday Reflection is scheduled to go out. Articles are to be submitted in word document format and pictures in jpeg format for best results.
Contact Information: Ellen Meyer

Thanks To Everyone That helped Make Pub Night A Sucess

28. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Pub Night · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 

FRIDAY NIGHT COLLAGE BY BILL WOOLEY

SATURDAY NIGHT COLLAGE BY BILL WOOLEY


 

Friday Reflections Feb. 21, 2014

26. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Diocese Of San Joaquin, Friday Reflections · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 The Friday Reflection Title

 2-21-2014

 
Dear Friends,
 
Bishop David Rice has arrived in the Diocese. Bishop David (as he wishes to be called) and his wife Tracy have taken up residence in temporary quarters in Fresno while they search for a permanent home in that city.
 
Over the next few weeks there will be a number of events and meetings all of which will have to do with Bishop David becoming a bishop in the Diocese of San Joaquin.  I want to remind everyone of what will be taking place, because every member of the Diocese is invited to participate in these events.
 
On Sunday, February 23, at 4:00 p.m. Bishop David will be recognized as the Bishop Assistant of the Diocese of San Joaquin and make the Oath of Conformity as a bishop in the Episcopal Church in the presence of the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori. The service will take place at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Modesto.  The entire diocese is requested…invited…urged…expected to attend.
 
During the month of March each of the three deaneries will meet with Bishop David to get to know him, to hear from him about his background and experience and hear about his understanding of the mission and ministry of a diocese and its bishop and to share with him about whom we believe we are as a diocese.
 
The first of these meetings will be the Southern Deanery which will meet on Saturday, March 1 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bakersfield.
 
On Saturday March 8 at 10:00 a.m. the Northern Deanery will meet at The Episcopal Church of St. Anne’s Church in Stockton.
 
The Central Deanery will meet with Bishop David on Sunday, March 16 at 3:00p.m. at Holy Family Episcopal Church in Fresno.
 
Please attend the meeting of your respective deanery.  It is important for everyone to attend your deanery meeting as these are meetings to prepare for the Special Convention to elect the next Provisional Bishop. Bishop David will be the Candidate for Provisional Bishop.
 
Finally, Saturday, March 29 is the day of the Special Convention to elect the Provisional Bishop at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bakersfield. Everyone is invited to the Convention (not only clergy and lay delegates and alternates who must attend), but everyone. Following the Convention, still at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield the newly elected bishop will be Seated as Provisional Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin within the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. All members of the Diocese are invited to participate.
 
Faithfully,
 
+Chet Talton
 

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

From The Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin …

 

  Madonna and Child

From the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Service of Dedication and Celebration

of the Ministry of

 

David Rice

 

as a Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin

 

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presider

 

Sunday, February 23, 2014

4:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

209-576-0104

Bring your Banner…..

Banners for the Service of Dedication and Celebration with Bishop Rice on February 23.

All Churches in the diocese are invited to send their banner (along with banner stand) and a banner bearer (with their own alb or other vestments) to the service welcoming Bishop Rice as a bishop in the diocese and as he takes the oath of conformity. Please let Canon Kate know if you will be bringing a banner and who your banner bearer will be by emailing: [email protected].

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery…

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

 

Up date to last week’s announcement

 

The “Party” Bus to Special Convention Continues to Fill! 

 

We’ve passed the two thirds mark on reservations for the Special Convention Bus! Take off is 5:30 a.m. on March 29th from the Park and Ride lot on the west side of Vintage Faire Mall in Modesto. March 8thremains the cutoff date for the $50 rate. All reservations after the 8th (if available) go to $65.00 until the bus is filled. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in this Special Convention at one of the diocese’s newly returned churches. Father Glenn Kanestrom has promised no homilies, but may break into song. For information and reservations contact (209) 869-1075, or  [email protected]. Be there or be square!

 

                 

For Youth EYE…

Episcopal Youth Event 2014

WHO:

       Anyone in high school during 2013/14 year

WHEN:    

July 9 – July 13, 2014

WHERE:  

Villanova
University, Philadelphia, PA

WHAT?    

The upcoming event marks the twelfth EYE, which remains a popular and well-attended event.  EYE14 is geared for youth in grades 9-12 during the 2013-2014 academic year and their adult leaders.  The cost for EYE is $325.  Included are transportation to/from the Philadelphia airport, your room, meals, event T-shirt, and activities. Transportation to Philadelphia is extra.

ADD-ON

    3 Days of Urban Mission is offered for all EYE14 participants. It is an event designed to give delegates an opportunity to engage mission in an urban environment. The participation criteria for EYE14 continue to apply throughout 3 Days of Urban Mission.

Participants should expect to engage in hands-on labor, which might include everything from painting and hauling debris to childcare and preparing meals. Participants should bring work clothes, work gloves, and closed-toe shoes.

 
 

3 Days of Urban Mission will commence with preparatory training and evening prayer at 8 p.m. on Sunday evening, July 13, and will end of Tuesday, July 15, with an evening worship service.

 

The cost is $275, which includes three nights of lodging (including pillows and linens), meals on Monday and Tuesday, and a breakfast to-go on Wednesday morning. Delegates will register for 3 Days of Urban Mission online with EYE14 registration

 

So are YOU ready to go?

Next step is to contact your priest or youth director and let them

 

Click here for EYE Flyer
                 Click here for  EYE Registration Form

 

From ECF Fellows…

                             
The ECR Fellows application deadline is March 14, 2014
 
Dear Friends,
The application deadline for ECF’s Fellowship Partners Program is less than one month away. As theMarch 14 deadline draws near, we are asking that all our friends and colleagues consider whether they know of an innovative scholar or ministry leader, lay or ordained, whose work fills them with a sense of hope. If so, please forward this email to them and let them know about ECF’s Fellowship Partners Program, a program that has been building a vibrant network of scholars and ministry leaders across the Church for 50 years.
Here are a few things we ask all applicants to bear in mind:

·   ECF is committed to strengthening the leadership of lay and ordained members of the Episcopal Church.  All applicants to the academic and ministry tracks are asked to describe how they plan on developing the next generation of lay and ordained leaders for the Episcopal Church, whether this is in the context of academia, a local congregation, through a church-wide initiative, or in another setting.
·   ECF is a lay-led organization of the Episcopal Church.  ECF is especially looking for scholars and ministry leaders who incorporate lay leadership development into their work. All members of the Church, whether lay or ordained, are invited to apply.
·   An ECF Fellowship provides both financial support and networking opportunities. ECF has typically awarded three to four Fellowships per year. New awards range up to $15,000 for the first year and are renewable for an additional two years. In addition to this financial support, new Fellows join a wide network of past Fellows and ECF partners with them so that they may share their knowledge, experience, and best practices with the wider Church.
Please visit the ECF website to learn more about the Fellowship Partners Program, the application process, and be sure to review our list of Frequently Asked Questions. You will find profiles of the 2013 Fellows here and our complete list of all ECF Fellows here. Please email me or my colleague Brendon Hunter, Assistant Program Director, should you have any questions about this program or the application process.
All of us at ECF are excited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Fellowship Partners Program, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming and announcing the 2014 class of Fellows in late May.
 
Faithfully,
 
Miguel Escobar
Program Director, Leadership Resources

From UTO…

2014 United Thank Offering Grants

In recognizing the Five Marks of Mission, especially “to seek to transform unjust structures of society, to challenge violence of every kind and to pursue peace and reconciliation”, the United Thank Offering is seeking to address the current culture of violence by supporting the mission of peace as expressed in the Gospel. The Gospel of Love proclaimed by Jesus Christ is the focus for the United Thank Offering Grants during the 2014-2015 period.
The 2014 United Thank Offering Grant Application is now available. The following information should be helpful in preparing a United Thank Offering grant application. All additional forms necessary for the completion of a United Thank Offering Grant are also included below. The deadline for submission of a completed application (and required documents) is 5pm (EST) on Friday, February 28, 2014.
If you need assistance or have questions about the application, please contact Heather Melton, United Thank Offering Coordinator.
 

Click  here for grant application forms

From the Diocesan Office…

 All mail for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin,

Bishop, Canon and Administrator  

is to go to the current address:

 

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

 

Dio seal

If there is anything time sensitive  

please email  

emeyer@diosanjoaquin  

or fax:

209-576-0114    

 

Attention Clergy!
A Friendly Reminder
DUE NEXT THURSDAY!
All forms sent to you in January via the post office are due to the Diocesan Office by February 27th. The forms are also on our website: www.diosanjoaquin.org.
The following forms are due:
2013 Parochial Report . Congregational Contact Form
 2014 Certificate of Lay Delegate Form . Disaster Preparedness Form
Many thanks to

Holy Trinity and St. Raphael
for having all forms completed and turned in!!

Whats going on…

Want to know what is happening in the Diocese of San Joaquin?
Click on the link below to see upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

 
It’s time again for…
 

 
Join us for a fun evening of food, drink, singing,
games, a raffle and silent auction.
 

February 21 & 22, 6:00 -8:30 p.m. 

 
Adults $30.00 and Children under 12 $15.00

 

Your ticket includes dinner, an alcoholic beverage, soda, coffee,
and all the festivities.
 
Purchase tickets in advance at:
1) PubNight2014.eventbrite.com
2) PubNight.EpiscopalChurchOfStAnne.com
3) the church office by calling 209 473-2313
 
1020 W. Lincoln Road, Stockton, CA 95207

 

SAVE THE DATE!!
Christ the King Episcopal Church, Riverbank
will be hosting YOU at our Ladies’ Tea to be held on Saturday May 3rd. Put this important date on your calendars!!  There will be food, music, raffles, prizes for best tables, and even a fashion show. Tickets will be available soon!!  Watch this space for more info.

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars… 

Bishop Talton’s Calendar
 
 
February 23                     Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
March 29                         Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Bishop Rice’s Calendar
 
 

February 23                      St. John the Baptist, Lodi
     

February 23                       Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest
 
March 5                             Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. James, Sonora
 
March 16                           St. Paul’s, Visalia
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
 
February 23                       Church of the Saviour, Hanford
Service of Dedication and Celebration  of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. John’s, Tulare
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 Have you checked it out?

Keep up to date on news and events with our
NEW Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org
Click here:  Our Website  
Contributions to the Friday Reflection are most welcome and are due by the Tuesday before the Friday Reflection is scheduled to go out. Articles are to be submitted in word document format and pictures in jpeg format for best results.
Contact Information: Ellen Meyer

Friday Reflections Feb. 14, 2014

14. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Friday Reflections · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 The Friday Reflection Title

 2-14-2014
 

The geese are flying south again; I hear them honking in the sky and I go out to look for the long waving V that is the shape of their communal life. It is mid-February, and the geese should have been flying south over Kernville last November.  I check again; yes, they are going south, lots of them. Winter was late in coming, and so are the geese, I guess. But this isn’t how it’s supposed to be. I don’t know whether to delight in the geese or to feel the rage (of a long time teacher of scientific thinking) about the fact that politicians keep “playing” with climate change, or to fear the loss of the seasons and the order of the world as I’ve known it. Which is to say that I have skipped over my one real choice, namely to show up fully for and in the present moment.

 

The readings for this Sunday hammer on the theme of radical choice, and they tell us to choose God. Over and over they say that we have to be radical in choosing God in order to choose life, in order to avoid death, in order to avoid being caught up in legal fascinations that lead to death. From Ecclesiasticus: “Before each person are life and death, and whichever one chooses will be given.” From Deuteronomy: “See today I set before you life and prosperity, death and adversity. . . . Choose life then so that you and your descendants may live. . . .” From First Corinthians: “For as long as there is jealousy and quarrelling among you, are you not behaving according to human inclinations?”

 

From the Gospel, it is given even more radically by Jesus that, if there are impediments in your consciousness, attend to those; get rid of anything and everything that separates you from God, even your own body parts!

 

In times of uncertainty, the guidance is clear: show up with all your heart and mind for the present moment. It’s not enough to check off in the rulebook that you did all the right things in all the right ways. It’s not enough that you were in the correct political alignment with the best of all bishops. You do not belong to Bishop Chet or to Bishop David-one plants, the other waters, but you are God’s field, God’s building, God’s very place of residence.

Yes, it is a time of change in the Diocese of San Joaquin, another time of change, change upon more change, but one thing is constant: that if we as individuals and congregations and as the collective that is the Diocese of San Joaquin show up for the present moment, neither clinging to the past, nor engineering the future, but just meeting reality as it presents itself, we will be saved.

If we fall into the reality of the present moment, giving our real selves in full trust, saying what we really mean, as Jesus habitually did, we will certainly fall into God’s embrace, as Jesus also did. In surrender to the present, we make the most radical choice; we are the wisest of fools because reality, shifting and changing moment by moment, meets our hearts as they too shift moment by moment. And that dance is where God lives, where God meets us in infinite embrace.

Falling Upward
 

At last I lay my head
in the lap of life.
All my sorrows have

brought me home
 

To this moment.
All that I wanted has

betrayed me.
All I have not wanted
has set me free.
 
Faithfully,
 
Anne+
 

Rev. Anne Benvenuti, Ph.D., is an assisting priest at St. Paul’s, Bakersfield, a professor of psychology and philosophy, and a published poet. She is the author of the forthcoming interdisciplinary treatise on human-animal relations, Spirit Unleashed (Wipf and Stock 2014).

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

On the Move…

 

 The Rice’s are on the move!

For Clergy…

 

The Clergy Spring Retreat: Feb 25-27, 2014

Registration forms due February 14, 2014  

That’s today!! 

 
 
The clergy conference this Spring will be held at St. Anthony’s retreat center in Three Rivers. The Rev. Gay Jennings will be our retreat leader for this pre-Lenten retreat. The Registration form can be found here.
 
 

From The Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin …

 

  Madonna and Child

From the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Service of Dedication and Celebration

of the Ministry of

 

David Rice

 

as a Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin

 

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presider

 

Sunday, February 23, 2014

4:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

209-576-0104

Bring your Banner…..

Banners for the Service of Dedication and Celebration with Bishop Rice on February 23.

All Churches in the diocese are invited to send their banner (along with banner stand) and a banner bearer (with their own alb or other vestments) to the service welcoming Bishop Rice as a bishop in the diocese and as he takes the oath of conformity. Please let Canon Kate know if you will be bringing a banner and who your banner bearer will be by emailing: [email protected].

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery…

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

 

Up date to last week’s announcement

 

Your glass maybe half empty, but the Northern Deanery bus to the Special Convention is over half-full!!  

 

Remember March 8th is the cutoff for the $50.00 fare to the March 29th Special Convention in Bakersfield. If seats remain, the fare goes to $65 afterwards. The bus will depart the Modesto Vintage Faire Park and Ride promptly at 5:30 AM with an evening return. Continental breakfast on the way out and refreshments on the way home included in the fare. For information and reservations contact (209) 869-1075, or  [email protected]. Be there or be square!

 

                 

From the Diocesan Office…

 All mail for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin,

Bishop, Canon and Administrator  

is to go to the current address:

 

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

 

Dio seal

If there is anything time sensitive  

please email  

emeyer@diosanjoaquin  

or fax:

209-576-0114    

 

Attention Clergy!
A Friendly Reminder
All forms sent to you in January via the post office are due to the Diocesan Office by February 27th. The forms are also on our website: www.diosanjoaquin.org.
The following forms are due:
2013 Parochial Report . Congregational Contact Form
 2014 Certificate of Lay Delegate Form . Disaster Preparedness Form
Many thanks to

Holy Trinity and St. Raphael
for having all forms completed and turned in!!

Upcoming Meetings and Events:

 

  • Standing Committee Meeting, Saturday, February 15, 2014, 10:00 a.m. Holy Family, Fresno
  • Diocesan Council Teleconference Meeting, Thursday, February 20, 2014, 6:00 p.m.
  • Celebration of Ministry for Bishop Rice, Sunday,  February 23, 2014, 4 p.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto with The Most Rev. Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori presiding
  • Clergy Retreat, February 25-27, 2014, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers, CA
  • Southern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 1, 2014, 11:00 a.m., St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
  • Northern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 8, 2014, 10:00 a.m., St. Anne’s,     Stockton
  • Central Deanery Meeting, Sunday, March 16, 2014, 3 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
  • Special Convention, Saturday, March 29, 2014, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
  • Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto
Do you wish to see what else the Diocese is up to? Click here for The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin calendar.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

 
It’s time again for…
 

 
Join us for a fun evening of food, drink, singing,
games, a raffle and silent auction.
 

February 21 & 22, 6:00 -8:30 p.m. 

 
Adults $30.00 and Children under 12 $15.00

 

Your ticket includes dinner, an alcoholic beverage, soda, coffee,
and all the festivities.
 
Purchase tickets in advance at:
1) PubNight2014.eventbrite.com
2) PubNight.EpiscopalChurchOfStAnne.com
3) the church office by calling 209 473-2313
 
1020 W. Lincoln Road, Stockton, CA 95207

 

SAVE THE DATE!!
Christ the King Episcopal Church, Riverbank
will be hosting YOU at our Ladies’ Tea to be held on Saturday May 3rd. Put this important date on your calendars!!  There will be food, music, raffles, prizes for best tables, and even a fashion show. Tickets will be available soon!!  Watch this space for more info.

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Calendars… 

Bishop Talton’s Calendar
 

February 20                     Diocesan Council Meeting

 
February 23                     Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
March 29                         Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Bishop Rice’s Calendar
February 20                      Diocesan Council Meeting
 

February 23                      St. John the Baptist, Lodi
     

February 23                       Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
February 25-27                 Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest
 
March 5                             Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. James, Sonora
 
March 16                           St. Paul’s, Visalia
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 20-26                      House of Bishops
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
February 20                       Diocesan Council Meeting
 
February 23                       Church of the Saviour, Hanford
Service of Dedication and Celebration  of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
February 25-27                 Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. John’s, Tulare
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 Have you checked it out?

Keep up to date on news and events with our
NEW Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org
Click here:  Our Website  
Contributions to the Friday Reflection are most welcome and are due by the Tuesday before the Friday Reflection is scheduled to go out. Articles are to be submitted in word document format and pictures in jpeg format for best results.
Contact Information: Ellen Meyer

Rev. Lyn Sermon, February 9

10. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Rector, Sermon · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sermon

Epiphany 5, Year A

Technology can be a wonderful thing.  I remember as a young adult easily learning about computers.  Actually, I took the first ‘computer’ programming class that was offered atSierraJunior College.  Back then we wrote simple programs a line at a time on punch cards which were fed into the ‘computer’ and an answer or data was produced.  What we really learned was how to ‘debug’ our own work.  How far things have come in just over 40 years…

40 years, are you kidding?  The 21st century is about instantaneous results.  The changes have been astounding.  Kids have little concept about ‘waiting’.  I wonder if a drawback to all this technology is the need for quick results.  Problem solved – on to the next task.  In our quest to take care of problems – in schools, business, home and church – do we focus on the symptoms, mistaking them for ‘the problem’ – cure the symptom and forget about taking time to find out what’s really happening.  For example, when you come down with a cold, you take medication to alleviate the symptoms of the cold; fever, stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing – but do we try to minimize our exposure to viruses, that cause of the symptoms, or do we practice a lifestyle that will build our immune system which will also minimize viral infection?  Given how much we spend on cold medications it appears that it’s easier to take a couple pills or a tablespoon of liquid medication.

In the Old Testament reading, Isaiah is called to address the problem of false religious observance.  This morning we hear about ‘fasting’ as one of the symptoms.  The root problem is people who observe spiritual disciplines for selfish reasons (to gain God’s blessings) while ignoring the hunger, poverty, homelessness, and nakedness of those in need.  The problem is that the people are looking for God to provide for their needs because they have followed the law.  The people think that they have been faithful.  They imagine that their fasting and Sabbath-keeping have pleased God. 

The people have stated their complaint –– God has ignored their fasting.  Now God states his complaint –– as an act of repentance or devotion, their fasting is fatally flawed.  They have not fasted to honor God, but have instead fasted for selfish reasons.  They have assumed that God would reward their fasting, so they fasted to earn the reward.  Their purpose was not to give devotion to God but to gain a blessing from God.  Their fasting, therefore, was exactly the opposite of genuine fasting.  Rather than an act of self-denial, it was a self-centered grasping for reward.  Their fasting was not an act of humility but of pride.  What they are about to learn is that God considers them to have been majoring in minors –– to have been faithfully keeping the lesser parts of the law while neglecting “the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faith”. 

            God’s response is to describe the fast that comes from true devotion that grows naturally out of love for God.  People who love God will worship him for the sake of honoring rather than manipulating him.  And if we love God, we will also love those whom God loves –– our neighbors.  This is a far grander vision than fasting or sackcloth and ashes.  It demands a great deal more of God’s people than they have understood until this moment.  It is easy to go without food for a day or to dress in humble attire –– especially if we think that we will receive a blessing from God for doing so. It is much more difficult to remedy injustice –– to give freedom to those whom we have oppressed –– to break yokes that bind people to servitude.  That love for God and neighbor will be manifested by taking concrete steps to care for those in need.  The reward of this right relationship with God is that “our light shall break forth like the dawn, your healing shall spring up quickly…you shall cry for help, and God will say, Here I am.”

Being in relationship with God calls us to look at our own lives, to honestly compare what we do with what we are called to do.  To not necessarily come up with a quick solution or ignore issues that may not seem to affect us directly.  Literacy, high school drop-out rates, gang violence, poverty, unemployment – there may be relatively quick remedies for the symptoms, but God calls us to look for the root problem.  I’m guessing it’s big and complicated.  It may well involve us making sacrifices for the good of our community. 

Could it be that we are being called to spend some of our time and talent with those suffering social injustice?  To give up time spent with our own family or our own leisure?  Most definitely it will be monetary.  There’s no way around it, whether directly or indirectly we will need to ‘pay’.  Perhaps one of us will need to get involved politically…the solutions won’t be easy or cheap. 

As a community we can figure this out.  Jesus points out that we are the salt of the earth; the light of the world.  We are called to be, to do.  Some say they can’t ‘do’ anything physical, and it is true.  But you are still the salt and the light by your examples of leadership and caring that you give to us.  And you still have a task that you can do – pray.  In fact, we all can and need to pray – to ask God for help.  Prayer is strong and it is needed as much, or more, today that ever. 

So our work is not done.  We are called to let our light shine out, to continue our good works through the power of the Spirit we have received from God.    AMEN.

Friday Reflections Feb. 7, 2014

07. February 2014 · Write a comment · Categories: Friday Reflections · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

          The Friday Reflection Title

 2-7-2014
 
COVENANT COMMITTEE
 

The Diocese of San Joaquin has enjoyed financial, emotional and spiritual from the Episcopal Church during our sojourn. About two years ago a Covenant Committee was established as a means of creating better communication between our diocese and the Executive Council of the Episcopal Church. Bishop Chet has appointed four people (Cindy Smith, Michael Glass, The Rev. Michele Racusin and Canon Kate Cullinane) and Executive Council appointed four people (The Rt. Rev. Barry Beisner, The Rt. Rev. Mark Hollingsworth, Dr. Fredrica Thompsett and Anne Watkis) to that committee. The committee meets by teleconference in advance of every Executive Council meeting.

 

The Covenant Committee met last week and we were asked as a diocese to produce some positive highlights to be shared by our Executive Council members at the Executive Council meeting in February. Below is a copy of those highlights:

 
Positive Highlights in the Diocese of San Joaquin (February 2014)
 

1. The diocese received five properties back over the summer of 2013. In four of those five properties we had parallel congregations prepared to go back into the church buildings. All four of those congregations have experienced growth since returning to their properties.

 

2. The fifth property is currently rented to a Free-Will Baptist group and they are expressing interest in purchasing that property from us.

 

3. We are very excited about the anticipated arrival of Bishop David Rice from New Zealand in just a few weeks.

 

4. We are extremely grateful that the Province VIII bishops have given the diocese a grant of $100,000 over the next four years [$40,000 (2014), $30,000 (2015), $20,000 (2016), $10,000 (2017)] to help defray the costs of a full-time, non-retired bishop and assist us with a pension and benefits package.

 

5. There is growing excitement about the arrival of the Presiding Bishop for the Service of Dedication and Celebration as Bishop Rice takes the Oath of Conformity. Her presence with us at this time is being interpreted as on-going significant support.

 

6. We are also thrilled that the President of the House of Deputies has agreed to be our retreat leader for the first clergy retreat we will share with Bishop Rice.

 
These highlights are being shared with Executive Council this week.
 

I thought all of you in the diocese would like to see the report and know also of the very positive outlook in the diocese just now.

 
I pray many blessings on all of your ministries.
 
Canon Kate+

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

People News…

 

Cindy Smith, from St. Paul’s, Bakersfield , has been elected chair of the 2015 deputation to General Convention.

 
 
Click here to read article about Bishop Rice and family on the Anglican Communion News Service web site.
 

For Clergy…

 

The Clergy Spring Retreat: Feb 25-27, 2014

Registration forms due February 14, 2014 

 
 
The clergy conference this Spring will be held at St. Anthony’s retreat center in Three Rivers. The Rev. Gay Jennings will be our retreat leader for this pre-Lenten retreat. The Registration form can be found here.
 
 

From The Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin …

  Madonna and Child

From the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Service of Dedication and Celebration

of the Ministry of

 

David Rice

 

as a Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin

 

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presider

 

Sunday, February 23, 2014

4:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

209-576-0104

Bring your Banner…..

Banners for the Service of Dedication and Celebration with Bishop Rice on February 23.

All Churches in the diocese are invited to send their banner (along with banner stand) and a banner bearer (with their own alb or other vestments) to the service welcoming Bishop Rice as a bishop in the diocese and as he takes the oath of conformity. Please let Canon Kate know if you will be bringing a banner and who your banner bearer will be by emailing: [email protected].

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery…

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

 

Up date to last week’s announcement

 

The Charter coach to the Special Convention on March 29th is now over one third filled!

 

This coach departs Modesto at 5:30 a.m. on the 29th, with a same day return at approximately 8:00 p.m. Round trip fare is $50.00, which includes on-board refreshments both ways. If seats remain after March 8th, the fare  increases to $65.00. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in a very special event, whole leaving the driving to someone else. For reservations contact (209) 869-1075, orc[email protected].

                 

From the Diocesan Office…

Did you know 
that one of the 2014 Football Top Recruits rated by 247Sports Rating  is Tre’ Williams?
 
Tre’ is an inside linebacker for St. Paul’s Episcopal High School in Mobile, Alabama and is in the Class of 2014.
 
Go Tre’! Go Episcopal!
 

From the Diocesan Office…

Upcoming Meetings and Events:

 

  • Standing Committee Meeting, Saturday, February 15, 2014, 10:00 a.m. Holy Family, Fresno
  • Diocesan Council Teleconference Meeting, Thursday, February 20, 2014, 6:00 p.m.
  • Celebration of Ministry for Bishop Rice, Sunday,  February 23, 2014, 4 p.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto with The Most Rev. Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori presiding
  • Clergy Retreat, February 25-27, 2014, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers, CA
  • Southern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 1, 2014, 11:00 a.m., St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
  • Northern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 8, 2014, 10:00 a.m., St. Anne’s,     Stockton
  • Central Deanery Meeting, Sunday, March 16, 2014, 3 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
  • Special Convention, Saturday, March 29, 2014, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
  • Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto
Do you wish to see what else the Diocese is up to? Click here for The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin calendar.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

Julian of Norwich  

Love Suffering and the Cross:

A Retreat with Julian of Norwich

 

February 12-14, 2014

 

Due to lack of interest this event was cancelled

 

 

It’s time again for…
 

 
Join us for a fun evening of food, drink, singing,
games, a raffle and silent auction.
 

February 21 & 22, 6:00 -8:30 p.m. 

 
Adults $30.00 and Children under 12 $15.00

 

Your ticket includes dinner, an alcoholic beverage, soda, coffee,
and all the festivities.
 
Purchase tickets in advance at:
1) PubNight2014.eventbrite.com
2) PubNight.EpiscopalChurchOfStAnne.com
3) the church office by calling 209 473-2313
 
1020 W. Lincoln Road, Stockton, CA 95207

 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Calendars… 

Bishop Talton’s Calendar 

February 20                   Diocesan Council Meeting

 
February 23                      Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
March 29                          Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Bishop Rice’s Calendar
 

February 23                      St. John the Baptist, Lodi
     

February 23                      Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
February 25-27                 Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest
 
March 5                             Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. James, Sonora
 
March 16                           St. Paul’s, Visalia
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 20-26                      House of Bishops
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
February 20                       Diocesan Council Meeting
 
February 23                       Service of Dedication and Celebration  of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
February 25-27                 Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
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