The Friday Reflection Title

11-21-2014

From Bishop David
Last Sunday I was driving on The 99 in the Car-thedra (Great Episcopal Ride by-the-way [thanks again everyone]) and I switched to one of my programmed stations on the radio.  If you must know, it is 98.9, a self-proclaimed “soft rock” station.  Periodically, a lad by the name of John Tesh appears espousing tid-bits for better living, Tesh isn’t important to this reflection, in other words, I am digressing.  Now, instead of the typically groovy tunes on 98.9, I encountered on the day in question, yes, on the 16th of November, non-stop Christmas Jingles.  I found myself working on the presupposition that 98.9, in their infinite wisdom and/or commercialized foresight, was playing a “Wee Yultide Teaser” for mid-November listeners.
Yesterday (Tuesday), I returned to The 99 and whilst driving I turned to 98.9 only to hear, you may not be surprised at all, Christmas Jingles.  After listening to these “Yule Tunes” for two hours (yes I did) I realized this was not a teaser at all.  Again, perhaps it is no surprise to you, 98.9 is playing, as I craft these words, non-stop Christmas Ditties.
I must say sisters and brothers, I like listening to Bing, Nat and Burl as much as the next person, in fact, possibly more than the next person  The thing is, as much as I am perhaps nostalgically inclined, I simply cannot bring myself to listen (more than I already have) to “songs of the festive season.”  In addition, I am struggling with the fact that we are already inundated by Christmas Decorations and Ads on the tele.  San Joaquin, for your bishop, this is simply too much, too soon.
It is not that I am a proponent of “liturgical” or “seasonal” approaches like absence-makes-the-heart-grow-fonder or the hide-and-seek of the nativity.  In other words, it is not helpful or healthy to pretend that the Incarnation hasn’t occurred.  However, if we begin to observe and celebrate the feast-in-question, a month in advance, we will run the risk of being completely and utterly exhausted by the time 25 December arrives or worse yet, feel “done with it” before it happens.  The other aspect of my meandering reflection involves one of the loveliest not-to-mention poignant Seasons in the Christian Year, namely Advent.  Advent affords us the opportunity of rediscovering important Christian concepts and human responses like anticipating, expecting and “actively waiting.”  Please, please, thricely please, let’s not give that away for the premature “Ho-Ho-Ho’isms” we are already encountering.
For almost twenty years we have lived in a place where Christmas was about anticipating a Bar-B-Que on the beach with family and mates and preparing for the summer holiday.  I write this because the Cappel Rices will observe and celebrate this Northern Hemisphere Christmas in a very big way indeed, however we will not start before Thanksgiving or before Advent.  I look forward to singing O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Come Thou Long Expected Jesus and Lo! How A Rose E’er Blooming with you in the days of anticipation and expectation and waiting before us.
Blessings
+David

 
“Travel Light, leaving baggage behind.”

                                                                             Luke 10:1-12

From the Diocesan Office…

For All Clergy:
HOUSING ALLOWANCE: Dear Clergy, please remember that you need to have a housing allowance resolution passed by your Vestry/Bishop’s committee in December of 2014 for the 2015 tax year. If you have any questions about this process or would like a recommended format, please contact Canon Kate.
 
For  All Clergy and Lay Employee: LAST DAY!

MEDICAL AND DENTAL RENEWALS: Those of you currently covered through the Episcopal Church Medical Trust for your health and/or dental insurance will see a letter coming to your home in the very near future. If you wish to change your plans in any way a response will be required by November 21st. Watch for the notice in the mail.

 

For Clergy, Vestries and Bishop Committees:

The Bronze Disaster Preparedness Plan:  

Is to be completed by all parishes and missions and turned into the Diocesan Office. Many thanks to St. Clare of Assisi- Avery, St Matthew’s- San Andreas, St. James- Sonora, St. John the Baptist- Lodi, St. Raphael’s- Oakhurst, Holy Trinity- Madera, Church of the Saviour- Hanford,  St. Paul’s- Bakersfield, St. Paul’s, Modesto, St. Sherrian’s, Kernville, St Anne’s, Stockton, St. John the Evangelist, Stockton and St. Paul’s, Visalia just completed their report. Thank you!
For those parishes and missions who have not completed this: They need to be turned in ASAP.
For All Clergy and Parishioners:

The Diocesan Staff would appreciate your assistance in getting the contact information for the Provost, Chancellor, Dean, or President of the public and private universities, colleges and junior colleges in our geographical location. If you know who to contact, please call the diocesan office or email [email protected].

ALL MAIL
for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, Bishop, Canon, and Administrator is to be mailed to 1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355.

Thank you,

Ellen Meyer,

Administrator

Sacred Order of Deacons…

Dio seal
By the Grace of God
 
The Right Reverend David C. Rice
Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin
 
will ordain
 
Steven Michael Karcher 
 
to the Sacred Order of Deacons
 
 
Saturday, November 22, 2014, at 4:00 p.m.
 
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
2216 17th Street
Bakersfield, California 93301

 
 
Clergy Vest with Red Stoles
 

From Bishop David and the Deacons of the Diocese of San Joaquin…

 

 “. . . for I was hungry,

 
 

and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?” And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:35-40

What do most people do when they see a homeless person? They look away and pretend they didn’t see the person. Some will give a little money. We, as Christians, are called to do more. Spare change won’t buy the toiletries they need for basic hygiene, and a little food can tide someone over until the next soup kitchen opens.

Bishop David and the Deacons in the Diocese, are coordinating a program to help. Each congregation will soon be receiving a shipment of drawstring backpacks. They need to be filled with some basic items, carried in our cars, and given to those we see in need. It’s simple and can make a world of difference to someone on the streets.

The list below is merely a suggestion. Most of these can be obtained at dollar or 99 cent stores, and WalMart will often have a better price. Be sure to ask the stores for donations of these items – you may just get them for free.

Depending on the needs in your particular area you may wish to change some of the contents. There are many more things which could be added, but these backpacks are meant to be carried around and handed out – weight is an issue. Choose carefully and prayerfully the items you put in your backpacks.

 

Bottled water
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Deodorant
Hand Wipes
Comb
Razor
Soap
Shampoo, Conditioner, Lotion (from motels when you travel)
Tissue
Emergency Blanket
Small Microfiber Towel (Amazon.com)
Hand Sanitizer
Socks
Scarf
Hat
Cookies
Sandwich Crackers (peanut butter or cheese, for example)
Granola Bars
 
Deacon Carolyn Woodall
 
NOTE: Backpacks just arrived and will be distributed to the churches!

Stole Making Workshop Fundraiser for Car-thedra Fund…

Deadline to sign up is NOW!! 

 
Stole-Making Workshop
in Support of the Diocesan Car-thedra Fund
Saturday, 6 December 2014
9am-5pm
Episcopal Church of the Saviour, Hanford
 

Fr. Luis Rodriguez will be leading an all-day practical workshop on traditional stole-making techniques (all by hand). The day’s aim is that each participant will leave with a completed stole, and so reasonable sewing skills are a requirement to help move things along smoothly. This workshop is limited to only 10 participants so that each can get individual attention. It will meet at the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford and the cost is $100, the entirety of which will go the Diocesan Car-thedra Fund. A sack lunch will be provided. The registration fee does not cover materials, but good fabrics for stoles can be easily and relatively inexpensively acquired. To register download, complete and return to the diocesan office the linked registration form (click here) along with a check to cover the cost. Please do so as soon as possible, and Fr Luis will email you with a list of materials. If you have any questions, please contact Fr Luis by email ([email protected]) or phone 559-584-7706.

 

Deacons in Our World Today…

Coming Anon to a Service Near You!
During the upcoming months, and starting on November 9th, Bishop David will be accompanied by a deacon when he visits your congregation. The deacon and Bishop David will be showing the video “Deacons in Our World Today,” and answering questions about the vocational diaconate. You will need to have a DVD player and television, or laptop, speakers and a projector available. Please notify Ellen Meyer ([email protected]) at the Diocesan office if your congregation lacks this equipment so arrangements can be made.
Deacon Carolyn Woodall

Office of Public Affairs…

   

Office of Public Affairs

 

Applications now accepted online for

Episcopal Church Young Adult Service Corps

2015-2016 placements

 

[November 6, 2014] The Episcopal Church offers untold opportunities for young adults to live, work and pray with brothers and sisters around the Anglican Communion through the Young Adult Service Corps. Commonly known as YASC, applications for 2015-16 are now being accepted for the Young Adult Service Corps from young adults between the ages of 21-30.
“YASC provides an opportunity for young adults to explore their faith in a new capacity and to live out the Baptismal Covenant by seeking and serving Christ in all persons,” noted the Rev. David Copley, Mission Personnel Officer. “Applicants must have a high degree of maturity and possess a faith commitment and the willingness to be a humble guest, and the ability to be an authentic companion.”
 
The application is available online here www.episcopalchurch.org/yasc The application deadline is Friday, January 2, 2015.
 
Where are the YASC?
 
Current YASC members can be found throughout the Anglican Communion. They are working in administration, agriculture, development, education, and technology. They are serving Brazil, Burundi, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Haiti, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Kenya, the Philippines, South Africa, Spain and Uruguay.
 
Read their thoughts and reflections on their blogs herehttp://www.episcopalchurch.org/content/blogs/yasc
 
Among the possible placements for 2015-16 are Brazil, Burundi, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Panama, the Philippines, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Uruguay and Zambia.
 
For more information contact Elizabeth Boe, Global Networking Officer, at [email protected].
 
The Episcopal Church: www.episcopalchurch.org
YASC: www.episcopalchurch.org/yasc
Facebook: www.facebook.com/episcopalian
Twitter: twitter.com/iamepiscopalian
 
On the web:
Applications now accepted online for Episcopal Church Young Adult Service Corps
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/notice/applications-now-accepted-online-episcopal-church-young-adult-service-corps-0
 
For more info contact:
Neva Rae Fox
Public Affairs Officer
The Episcopal Church
[email protected]
212-716-6080 Mobile: 917-478-5659

United Thank Offering Grants…


 
2015 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 2015 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, January 15, 2015.

Click here to go to The Episcopal Church website  for application forms OR

here to new United Thank Offering Website.

Godly Play…

 

  

Interested in Godly Play Training?  

 
Holy Family Fresno is considering hosting a Godly Play training possibly Spring 2015. We are trying to gauge the interest of parishes that would like to participate and share the cost of the training. Cost depends on how many parishes attend. We will advise final cost and dates of training after we have an exact count on attendees. If you know of a parish outside our diocese that might be interested in participating, please pass along this information.
 
What is Godly Play? Check out the link below:
http://www.godlyplayfoundation.org/
Here is a sample of a Godly Play lesson:

Contact:
 
Cathie Olivas
559-676-5088
[email protected]

3rd Annual Diocese of San Joaquin Integrity Chapter Retreat..

 

    

  • Friday, January 23rd – We gather in the evening for fellowship, snacks, a movie and discussion as we arrive at ECCO in Oakhurst, south of Yosemite.
  • Saturday, January 24th – Canon Randy Kimmler leads our retreat program throughout the day.
  • Sunday, January 25th – After morning Eucharist with Bishop David and free time, we enjoy lunch together before departure.

 $130 per person/double room

2 nights, 5 meals

 

Registration Deadline – Dec. 20th.

For questions or to register contact:

Integrity Diocesan Organizer,

Jan Dunlap 661.201.2630

Email: [email protected]

 
Meet Canon Randy Kimmler, our 2015 Retreat Leader.  
 
Randy is Missioner for Vocations in the Diocese of Los Angeles, where he supports and oversees clergy development prior to and after ordination. About 8 years ago, he helped plant the Community of the Holy Spirit (CHS) in the Silver Lake district of Los Angeles. Lay-organized and led, the group is an emergent progressive Christian community that is being studied by many Episcopal dioceses. “It’s not a church. It’s not a mission. It’s an
anomaly and dioceses around the country are trying to figure out what to do with groups like us that are springing up all over the place.” Those who attended the 76th General Convention 2009 in Los Angeles experienced wonderful worship services and worship spaces designed by Randy and his team. Randy attends St. John’s ProCathedral in Los Angeles, serves on the Bishop’s Commission on LGBT Ministries and has been recognized by Bishop Jon Bruno for his significant service to the wider church.

For Southern Deanery…

Southern Deanery Meeting
 
11:00 a.m., St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest.
 

Whats going on…

What’s Happening in the DIO  
 
 
Ordination for Deacon -Steven Michael Karcher, Saturday, November 22, 2014, 4:00 p.m., St. Paul’s, Bakersfield.
 
Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony’s, Three Rivers, December 9-11, 2014
 
Diocesan Council and Standing Committee Meeting, Saturday, December 20, 2014,
11:00 a.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
Integrity Retreat, January 23-25, 2015, ECCO, Oakhurst
 
Diocesan Council and Standing Committee Retreat, Friday-Saturday, February 20-21, 2015, ECCO, Oakhurst

   Click on the link below to see more upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

 

From our Parishes and Missions..

                  

Sounds of Expectation

A Community Concert Series

Sunday November 23, 2014

3:00 p.m.

  

Click Here for more information 

 

The Episcopal Church of the Saviour

519 North Douty Street

Hanford, CA

559-584-7706 

 

                                                     

 St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

 Wednesday Educational Events  

  6:30 p.m. -8:00 p.m.

  703 5th Street, Taft, CA

November 26, 2014

Women of the Bible

with Ashley Musick

 
Educ

                                                     

Dear long- time and new friends of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church,

 

We are writing to inform you of a very important gathering which is coming up on the Feast of St. Andrew, November 30, 2014.

 

We are hoping that you will mark your calendar, save the date and plan to attend the celebration here at St. Andrew’s which will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone. The laying of the cornerstone, for the structure of the church building, was November 30, 1934. It was the beginning of a community-wide project. We are told that many people, in Taft, were involved in the making of the adobe bricks. They were formed out of the soil in this place.

 

We request the honor of your presence at the 10:00 AM service on November 30, 2014. The Rt. Rev’d David Rice, The Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, will preside at the worship service.

The service will be followed by a luncheon gathering, and at that luncheon we will have members and previous members reminisce about some of the important events in the history of St Andrew’s.

 

To honor our Scottish connection, we will also share in a wonderful Scottish meal. So far the menu will include…..Cottage Pie, Cock-a-Leaky soup, Scottish eggs, clootie dumplings and Short bread. I hear there may even be haggis???

 

The congregation of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, is looking forward to welcoming everyone who has had and does have, a connection with this beautiful church. Let us gather to celebrate our past and look forward to the future, of this important place of worship in Taft, California!

 

Let us celebrate together, In Christ,

 

The Congregation of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

 
 

Diocesan Website and Facebook…
 Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website www.diosanjoaquin.org  

 

Facebook  
Check out postings from Bishop David and Canon Kate at 
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin 

The Episcopal Church Website

www.episcopalchurch.org
 

For the Bishop and  Canon’s Calendar…

Bishop David’s Calendar –Click Here
 
Canon Kate’s Calendar- Click Here

 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Episcopal ShieldDio seal

 The Friday Reflection Title

9-12-2014

St. Clare of Assisi – The Episcopal Church Mission to Ebbetts Pass
 

Yes, St Clare’s is still a Mission Church. In the Upper Foothills, it’s on Highway 4 leading up to the High Country of the Sierras, the Pass often closed in winter. Except for vacationers heading for their cabins and Lake Alpine and the ski slopes, the resident population is otherwise sparse and the congregation at St Clare’s small but devout and faithful and always welcoming to strangers. We come from as far away as 25 miles, one couple from the East Bay on the last Sunday of the month.

 

We’re mostly retired and living on fixed incomes, but nevertheless support local appeals such as a Woman’s Shelter and Santa’s Express. We’ve also sent occasional collections to the St. Margaret sisters in Haiti to show our appreciation for what the sisters do on our behalf. We cannot match the generous giving of larger congregations nearby but this tiny Episcopal Church, in the view of its priest, ‘Punches above its weight’. We chiefly fulfill our apostolic ministry individually by commitment ‘to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord.’

One member, only occasionally present on Sunday, is engaged caring for the infirm elderly at home. Our Treasurer is often absent, either active as a member of Mountain Rescue (helicopter crew) or on extended training. Another, John, is unable to attend church owing to paralysis. Father Basil brings the church to him after service and reminds him, “We are Church”. His wife, our Senior Warden, has his constant care, though with professional assistance. We have an excellent music tradition with a small pipe organ accompanied by a cellist and a soprano. Our Cellist is part of the annual Bear Valley Music Festival administration. She’s also involved in many other goings on in and about Murphys.

Evangelism engages us all, though not necessarily with new members but every one contributes magnificently to a warm and generous faith community, subject to fears for the future but always being reminded of the wider Diocese, and beyond, of which we are a significant part.

Live in the present. If you live in the past, God cannot be with you: His Name is not, ‘I was’. If you live in the future, God cannot be with you. His name is not, ‘I will be’. But if you live in the present, God says, “I am with you for my Name is I AM”. With that assurance, we look forward with hope.

We see the Old Testament through the lens of the New Testament, but we are the Present Testament.

Fr. Basil Matthews

 

“Travel Light, leaving baggage behind.”

Luke 10:1-12

Car-thedra Fund…

 “car- thedra  filler up”

artist The Rev. Stephen Bentley

We are but a few weeks into the “Car-thedra” Appeal.  Firstly, Episcopalians of San Joaquin, congratulations and exceedingly well done!  Secondly, I wish to offer this brief reflection concerning what I think this “drive to/in our prospective Car-thedra” is all about.  This appeal has far less to do with the ultimate purchase of a new Episcopal Ride than it pertains to the ability of a community to respond together.  In the simplest form, in light of a challenging history (yes, I am learning the extent to which this is an absurd understatement), amid uncertainty, and amongst what must feel like perpetual litigation, and the like, we can do something extraordinary and we can do it together.  So again, well done sisters and brothers.  Let’s make our goal by Diocesan Convention.  Let’s show that we can do wonderful things together.

 

Your Bishop,
+David

Please send your contributions to:
the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin
1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355
 
Please make your check payable to the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin and please note “Bishop’s car” in the memo line.
 
Note: The Car-thedra fund now totals $15,757.00.
 

 Support the Car-thedra Fund…

Stole-Making Workshop
 

in Support of the Bishop’s Car-thedra Fund

Saturday, 6 December 2014
9am-5pm
Episcopal Church of the Saviour, Hanford
 

Fr. Luis Rodriguez will be leading an all-day practical workshop on traditional stole-making techniques (all by hand). The day’s aim is that each participant will leave with a completed stole, and so reasonable sewing skills are a requirement to help move things along smoothly. This workshop is limited to only 10 participants so that each can get individual attention. It will meet at the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford and the cost is $100, the entirety of which will go the Bishop’ Car-thedra Fund. A sack lunch will be provided. The registration fee does not cover materials, but good fabrics for stoles can be easily and relatively inexpensively acquired. An initial short meeting will be held at Diocesan Convention (time to be determined) to talk about materials needed. To register download, complete and return to the diocesan office the linked registration form (click here) along with a check to cover the cost. The deadline for for registration is Thursday, 23 October. If you have any questions, please contact Fr Luis by email ([email protected])  or phone 559-584-7706 559-584-7706.

.

From the Episcopal Church…


 
Office of Public Affairs
 

2014 Jubilee Ministry grant applications now accepted
 

[September 9, 2014] Samuel McDonald, Director of Mission and Deputy Chief Operating Officer, has announced that applications for Episcopal Church 2014 Jubilee Ministry grants are now being accepted in two categories: Program Development Grant and Program Impact Grants.

“Jubilee Centers are a vital and vibrant part of the mission of The Episcopal Church in our walk with those in need,” explained the Rev. Canon E. Mark Stevenson, Domestic Poverty Missioner. “They highlight the numerous, varied, and locally managed ways that we are committed to making a meaningful impact against the cycle of poverty that holds hostage the lives of so many.”

Application forms are available at:  http://www.episcopalchurch.org/page/domestic-poverty-ministries

One Program Development Grant, up to $35,000, will be awarded to a new or existing ministry that can demonstrate a new or re-visioned strategy and methodology to make an impact both locally and beyond itself.

Ten to 20 Program Impact Grants, ranging from $750 to $1,500 each, will be awarded to initiatives of Jubilee Centers that make a positive and measurable impact in the lives of those in need.

Stevenson continued: “While Jubilee Centers with a wide variety of missions and programs dealing with poverty alleviation are encouraged to apply, priority in grant awards will be given to those ministries with a strong educational and/or early childhood development component to their work. For example, a feeding ministry that teaches nutrition skills to care-givers of children would have priority over a program that only provides meals.”

All currently designated Jubilee Centers are eligible for this year’s grants.

Deadline is Tuesday, September 30. Grant recipients will be announced in October.

Information for ministries seeking to become designated as a Jubilee ministry and benefit from the network of support and be eligible for future Jubilee grants, applications and explanation of the process is here http://www.episcopalchurch.org/page/domestic-poverty-ministries

For more information contact Stevenson at [email protected].

 

Call To Annual Convention…

Call to Annual Convention

Dio seal

The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin
55th Annual Convention
October 24-25, 2014
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355

“Travel Light, leaving baggage behind.”
Luke 10:1-12
Renewal of Baptismal Vows with music
Friday 4p.m.
 
Holy Eucharist
Saturday 10a.m.
(Parishes bring banners, singers)
 
Clergy: White Stoles
 
Click below for the following forms/letters to find out more about annual convention and to register.

All members of our diocese are most welcome!

Safe Guarding God’s Children…

SafeGuarding Children On Line   
 
Please do not forget these special treasures.    
 

 

As the new school year begins and Sunday School starting, each diocesan member working with children must complete or have completed the training program developed by Praesidium for the Episcopal Church Pension Group.

 

Full listings of completed courses by churches and/or diocesan member are available upon request. Please direct your inquires to the Diocesan Coordinator for Safeguarding God’s Children, Stephanie Gilmer at [email protected].

 

Internet access to Safeguarding God’s Children: www.SafeguardingOnline.org

Thank you,

Peace and Abundance,

Stephanie Gilmer

 

For Northern Deanery…

Northern Deanery Meeting
 

The next Northern Deanery Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2014, 10:00-11:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s, Modesto. 

For Central Deanery…

Central Deanery Meeting
 

The next Central Deanery Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 12, 2014, 3:00 p.m.  at Holy Family, Fresno. 

For Southern Deanery…

Southern Deanery Meeting
The next Southern Deanery meeting is scheduled for

11:00 a.m., St. Sherrian’s, Kernville.

From the Diocesan Office…

For Clergy:
The Clergy and Parish Directory is now being updated for next  year and will be handed out to you at Annual Convention. This year pictures  will be added to the directory. Please send in your portrait picture to the Diocesan Office NOW. All Clergy including deacons and postulants pictures are needed. Many thanks to Justo Andres (first picture in), Gail Bernthal, Heather Mueller, Elaine Breckenridge, Canon Kate, Anne Benvenuti, Stephen Bentley,  John Shumaker, Teri Van Huss, Luis Rodriguez, Steve Karcher, Tim Vivian, Kathleen West,  Carolyn Woodall, Connie Jacobs and Kathie Galicia for getting their pictures in promptly!
For Clergy, Vestries and Bishop Committees:

Important Annual Convention:
Assessment is to be current for each parish and mission to have seat and voice at Annual Convention.
Promote Annual Convention at all services and activities and have registration forms available.
Nomination Forms for Diocesan Council and Standing Committee are due September 10, 2014. Nomination forms can be found in FR section: Call to Convention. 
The Bronze Disaster Preparedness Plan:

Is to be completed by all parishes and missions and turned into the Diocesan Office. Many thanks to St. Clare of Assisi- Avery, St Matthew’s- San Andreas, St. James- Sonora, St. John the Baptist- Lodi, St. Raphael’s- Oakhurst, Holy Trinity- Madera, Church of the Saviour- Hanford, and  St. Paul’s- Bakersfield for completing their plan.

Great news! St. Paul’s, Modesto has joined the ranks of those who have completed their Bronze Disaster Preparedness Plan. Thank you St. Paul’s, Modesto.

For All Clergy and Parishioners:

The Diocesan Staff would appreciate your assistance in getting the contact information for the Provost, Chancellor, Dean, or President of the public and private universities, colleges and junior colleges in our geographical location. If you know who to contact, please call the diocesan office or email [email protected].

ALL MAIL
for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, Bishop, Canon, and Administrator is to be mailed to 1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355.

Thank you,

Ellen Meyer,

Administrator

Whats going on…

What’s Happening in the DIO
 
Commission on Ministry Meeting, September 13, 2014, 10:00 a.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
House of Bishops- Taipei, Taiwan September 15-24, 2014
 
Southern Deanery Meeting, September 20. 2014, 11:00 a.m., St. Sherrian’s,  Kernville
 
Standing Committee Meeting, September 27, 2014, 10.00 a.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Central Deanery Clericus, October 2, 2014, 11:00 a.m., St. Paul’s, Visalia
 
Northern Deanery Meeting, October 11, 2014, 10:00 a.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
Convention Arrangement Committee, October 11, 2014, 11:30 a.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
Central Deanery Meeting, October 12, 2014, 3:00 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto

   Click on the link below to see more upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

 

From our Parishes and Missions..

Tostado Dinner

September 13, 2014,

4-7pm

St Francis Episcopal Church

915 East Main Street

Turlock, CA

Chef John Simkins

$8.00 a plate!

A great dinner for all!!!

Church of the Saviour
Hanford, CA

Book Signing  
at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Bakersfield

Sunday, October 19, at 11:45
in the parish hall. Admission is free.

The Rev. Dr. Anne Benvenuti
 

The Rev. Dr. Anne Benvenuti, Assisting Priest at St. Paul’s Bakersfield, who lives in Kernville, has recently released a new book, Spirit Unleashed: Reimagining Human-Animal Relations. The book has been nominated for the 2015 Pulitzer Prize for non-fiction by her publisher, Wipf and Stock.


 

Dr. Benvenuti is participating in a series of activities related to this book and to the role of religions in eco-spirituality.  She attended the Summer Session at the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics in July.  She is scheduled to speak at the UN NGO Conference at the UN Center in New York City on the topic of The Earth Charter and the Beloved Community on August 27th.  Additionally, Dr. Benvenuti has been invited to the Religions for the Earth Conference at Union Seminary in New York in September. She is one of 200 religious leaders selected by Karenna Gore to develop strategies for religious leadership in preparation for the UN Climate Summit and for embracing ecological ethics more broadly.  Benvenuti will address the spiritual connection of humans and other animals as part of a panel on Spiritual Experience in Nature.

 

Dr. Benvenuti will also be taking part in a series of readings and book signings this fall, including Brown University, University of Chicago, the American Folklore Society meeting in Santa Fe, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bakersfield.

The event at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2216 17th Street, Bakersfield, CA and  will take place on Sunday, October 19, at 11:45 in the parish hall. Admission is free.

                                                     

 St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

 Wednesday Educational Events  

  6:30 p.m. -8:00 p.m.

  703 5th Street, Taft, CA

September 17, 2014

Bible Study on the book of Ecclesiastes with The Rev. Heidi Edson

September 24, 2014

Film featuring the ministries of Fr. Damien and Mother Marianne Cope of Molokai who have been made Saints in the Roman Catholic Church.

October 1, 2014

Film ” Brother Son and Sister Moon ” about St. Francis

October 8, 2014  

Presentation on Hospice

End- of- life – directions will be available

October 15, 2014

Roots and Dreams and Transformations in the Emerging Church

with The Rev. Nancy McMaster

October 22, 2014

The Camino

with Andrew Matthews

Photos and stories of his journey on The Camino which is The Way of St. James, from the Pyrenees in France to Santiago in Spain, that has been walked for over 1000 years

October 29, 2014

Walking the Labyrinth

November 5, 2014

The Evil Associated With Lying

with Mary Vera

November 12, 2014

What Makes the Episcopal Church Unique

with The Rev. Heather Mueller

November 19, 2014

Presentation on Centering Prayer by Thomas Keating

November 26, 2014

Women of the Bible

with Ashley Musick

 
Educ 

                                                     

Dear long- time and new friends of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church,

 

We are writing to inform you of a very important gathering which is coming up on the Feast of St. Andrew, November 30, 2014.

 

We are hoping that you will mark your calendar, save the date and plan to attend the celebration here at St. Andrew’s which will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone. The laying of the cornerstone, for the structure of the church building, was November 30, 1934. It was the beginning of a community-wide project. We are told that many people, in Taft, were involved in the making of the adobe bricks. They were formed out of the soil in this place.

 

We request the honor of your presence at the 10:00 AM service on November 30, 2014. The Rt. Rev’d David Rice, The Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, will preside at the worship service.

The service will be followed by a luncheon gathering, and at that luncheon we will have members and previous members reminisce about some of the important events in the history of St Andrew’s.

 

To honor our Scottish connection, we will also share in a wonderful Scottish meal. So far the menu will include…..Cottage Pie, Cock-a-Leaky soup, Scottish eggs, clootie dumplings and Short bread. I hear there may even be haggis???

 

The congregation of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, is looking forward to welcoming everyone who has had and does have, a connection with this beautiful church. Let us gather to celebrate our past and look forward to the future, of this important place of worship in Taft, California!

 

Let us celebrate together, In Christ,

 

The Congregation of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

 
 

Diocesan Website and Facebook…
 Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website 
www.diosanjoaquin.org  
Facebook  
Check out postings from Bishop David and Canon Kate at 
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin 

For the Bishop and  Canon’s Calendar…

Bishop David’s Calendar –Click Here
 
Canon Kate’s Calendar-Click Here

 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Episcopal ShieldDio seal

 The Friday Reflection Title

 8-8-2014

 St. John the Evangelist, Stockton

 

Shortly after St. John the Evangelist was turned back over to the Episcopal Diocese, we had a deanery meeting in the Guild Hall to consider how the deanery could support the returned buildings and downtown mission of the church in Stockton. There were lots of ideas presented from the 40 plus people attending. A second meeting several weeks later also had more than 40 people. Many of these ideas required human capital that the congregation (what little of it that was there) was unable to currently provide.

 

What we did have was an appointed priest-in-charge, an appointed non-stipendiary deacon and a four member board of directors. Lea Isetti, formerly with the Chamber of Commerce in Stockton, was one of those members. She had contacts in the downtown area with business, civic leaders, and non-profits. Her suggestion (following Bishop David’s emphasis on missional thinking) was to ask those she knew to find out what they were currently doing, what they would do if they had additional resources, and how St. John’s might fit in with these needs.

 
First, we assessed what we had to offer the community:

  • We had expansive space (more than 20,000 square feet) and a parking lot, all centered in downtown.
  • We had endowments and rental income that paid the building expenses and maintenance.
  • We had a 3000 square foot Guild Hall and commercial kitchen, and a 2000 square foot children’s area in the undercroft. A beautiful church with stunning stain glass. A separate office building of 2600 square feet.
  • And, most importantly, a desire to share what we had by engaging in the downtown community.

 

Lea scheduled a series of meetings that included the police, human services, the Stockton Women’s Center, the DA’s office, Child Advocacy, the Downtown Business Alliance, and Head Start. Various members of the board, but always Lea and the Priest-in-Charge, met with all these people and offered our resources. Deacon Steve Bentley also met with the Stockton Bicycle Alliance and the Stockton Pride Center. We were overwhelming met with welcome and appreciation (and a bit of surprise.)

 
From these meetings some clear opportunities arose that include the following:

  • A Family Justice Center, sponsored by the DA’s office with support from multiple non-profit service groups, to support families in crisis and connected with the legal system.       This would be a separate non-profit umbrella organization. We have resources they need, and a location that is conducive to their mission.
  • Head Start evaluated our facilities and would like to use the children’s area for a downtown location.
  • There is no secure bicycle parking in the downtown area, and we could provide that. Lack of security was one of the principal reasons keeping people from commuting on their bicycles to downtown.
  • There is a need for a save place for youth to hang out in the downtown area (and we are across the street from the Cineplex.)
  • There are few neutral musical venues in downtown, especially those that are free. We have a great acoustically pure building with a stunning organ, an especially fine grand piano, and ample seating.

 

We now have some clear guideline from which to formula a missional strategy for St. John’s. It turns out that by filling some of these needs, we will also be generating income to support our facilities. But most importantly, we will be working toward becoming a dynamic downtown presence, engaged in our neighborhood, and meeting people where they are. All of this honors Christ and the Kingdom.

 
The Rev. Cn. Mark H. Hall, priest-in-charge
The Rev. Stephen Bentley, deacon

“Travel Light, leaving baggage behind.”

Luke 10:1-12

Car-thedra Fund…


Dear Friends in the Diocese of San Joaquin
 

As you know we are a diocese in the midst of redevelopment. And this redevelopment is no more evident than the amount of time your bishop and canon spend on the road. Please hear me, this is not a complaint at all, it is simply an observation. Amid this continued redevelopment in a missional context, there is an immediate need for a car. Actually, in due course, we will need two, but one step at-a-time. So we are, as you know, looking for your contributions for an economically efficient, environmentally friendly, reasonably priced, comfortable car.

 

And so, through this continued appeal, we are asking that you give generously.

 

Please help in keeping our “cathedra (seat of the bishop) on the move.” As I said last week in this space, please remember, I hope you give with the knowledge that the Apostolic Ministry we support, the Episcopal Ministry we aid, is non-other than the work which belongs to each of us. I suggest we set as a goal $20,000. I suspect this will not cover the full amount but it certainly gets us much closer.

 

And again, I wish to remind you that these contributions need to be over-and-above that which you gift to our local praying community.

 
Please send your contributions to:
the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin
1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355
 

Please make your check payable to the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin and please note “Bishop’s car” in the memo line.

 
Thank you again.
 
Bishop David
 
 
Bishop in Car-thedra artist Deacon Stephen Bentley 

People News…

The Rev. Kathleen West of St. Paul’s has applied and has been approved by Church Pension Fund for disability retirement. Kathleen’s immediate plans are for her and Ira to stay in the Modesto area, work at healing and getting well, and to come to some diocesan events as well as convention. Please keep Kathleen and St. Paul’s in your prayers during this time of transition.

 

Kathleen’s last day at St. Paul’s will be August 31, 2014  when the congregation will host a thank you celebration. All are welcome to come to the Eucharistic Service at 9:30 a.m. and stay for the thank you celebration at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355.

Call To Annual Convention…

Call to Annual Convention

Dio seal

The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin
55th Annual Convention
October 24-25, 2014
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355

“Travel Light, leaving baggage behind.”
Luke 10:1-12
Annual Convention Notification Packets have been mailed to all Clergy, Parishes
and Missions, Delegates and Alternates.
Click below for the following forms/letters to find out more about
annual convention and to register.

All members of our diocese are most welcome!

EFM Training…

EFM

EFM Mentor Training
We just scheduled the annual EfM Mentor training.  This training is mandatory for all those who want to mentor an EfM class but it’s open to everyone who just wants to learn more about EfM.  It’s particularly good for current EfM students who want a summer EfMexperience.  All are welcome.

 
 
When:  August 13, 14 & 15
Starts:  2pm on Wednesday, 8:30am on Thursday, 8:30am on Friday.
Ends:  3pm on Friday
Where:  Holy Family Episcopal Church – Fresno
Cost:  $195.00 per person
 

Contact Holy Family Episcopal Church at [email protected] with any questions.

From Commission on Ministry…

 

Day of Discovery

A Program for Discerning Ministry in the Episcopal Church

 
September 6, 2014
10:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.
Christ the King Community Episcopal Church
6443 Estella Avenue, Riverbank, CA 95367
 

Day of Discovery is designed to help Episcopalians broaden their understanding and appreciation of the four groups of ministers in the Episcopal Church. Participants will discover new arenas for ministry as well as see and experience the complementary relationship between all ministers of the Church.

 

Some people limit their definition of discernment as primarily an activity to find THEIR ministry, THEIR career, or THEIR place. This program, on the other hand, will define discernment as primarily a lifelong process of perceiving, listening, and responding to the movement of the Holy Spirit.

 

Most of all, Day of Discovery is designed to help people Discover and Appreciate the Mission and Ministry of Christ, how the Episcopal Church expresses that ministry, and how each person fits into that expression.

 

For more information and registration form on Day of Discovery click here.

For Northern Deanery…

Northern Deanery Meeting
 

There will be a Northern Deanery Meeting Friday, August 15, 2014 at  St. John the Evangelist, Stockton.
 
There will be a Holy Eucharist at 3:00 p.m. and the deanery meeting will be at 4:00 p.m.
 
This meeting is our agreed  follow-up meeting to our May meeting regarding the future of St. John’s. At this meeting we will review our progress at St. John’s and further brainstorm ideas about the future of this ministry. Anyone interested in the ministry at St. John’s is welcome to attend.
 

For Southern Deanery…

Southern Deanery Meeting
The next Southern Deanery meeting is currently scheduled for

From the Diocesan Office…

For All Clergy and Parishoners:
The Diocesan Staff would appreciate your assistance in getting the contact information for the Provost, Chancellor, Dean, or President of the public and private universities, colleges and junior colleges in our geographical location. If you know who to contact, please call the diocesan office or email [email protected].

For Clergy:
For a Marriage Consultation and Consent form contact the Diocesan Office and one will be mailed or emailed to you. Thank you.
For Treasurers:

Be sure to use the 2014 Treasurer Monthly form and discard older forms.
Click here for the 2014 form.
For Clergy, Vestries and Bishop Committees:
The Bronze Disaster Preparedness Plan is to be completed by all parishes and missions and turned into the Diocesan Office. Many thanks to St. Clare of Assisi- Avery, St Matthew’s- San Andreas, St. James- Sonora, St. John the Baptist- Lodi, St. Raphael’s- Oakhurst, Holy Trinity- Madera and Church of the Saviour- Hanford,  St. Paul’s- Bakersfieldfor completing their plan.
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].

Thank you,

Ellen Meyer,

Administrator

Whats going on…

What’s Happening in the DIO
 
EfM Training August 13-15, Holy Family, Fresno
 
Northern Deanery Eucharist August 15, 2014  3:00 p.m., St. John’s, Stockton
 
Northern Deanery Meeting August 15, 2014  4:00 p.m., St. John’s, Stockton
 
Day of Discovery, September 6, 2014, 10:00 a.m., Christ the King, Riverbank
 
Southern Deanery Meeting, September 20. 2014, 10:00 a.m. Location TBD
 
Standing Committee Meeting, September 20, 2014, 10.00 a.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Joint Meeting of the Standing Committee and Diocesan Council September 20, 2014, 12 noon, Holy Family, Fresno
 
Diocesan Council Meeting, September 20, 2014, 1:00 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto


   Click on the link below to see more upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

 

From Our Parishes and Missions…

Dining Chairs for sale at St. Paul’s, Modesto
only $10.00 each!
St. Paul’s, Modesto has 207 green upholstered dining chairs for the fantastic price of $10.00 each. Please email Suzie at [email protected] for more information about the chairs and to make arrangements for purchase and pick-up.

In our Community…

Wheelchairs Needed

Trinity United Presbyterian Church, Modesto and
First Presbyterian Church,Turlock
are collecting wheelchairs, walkers and crutches to deliver to those in need in Guatemala. They hope to collect 200 wheelchairs.
If you can help please contact:
Trinity United Presbyterian Church, Modesto 209-529-3228
or First Presbyterian Church, Turlock 209-312-1238

For the Bishop and  Canon’s Calendar…

Bishop David’s Calendar –Click Here
 
Canon Kate’s Calendar-Click Here

 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here
Diocesan Website and Facebook…
 Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org  
Facebook  
Check out postings from Bishop David and Canon Kate at
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Episcopal ShieldDio seal

 The Friday Reflection Title

 7-18-2014

From Bishop David

Healthy, Holy and Happy Relationships…
I was traveling somewhere the other day and I realized that I was without my phone.  And the feelings attached were something like: more-than-slightly discombobulated, at least disconnected, somewhat irresponsible, letting the “side” down, off balanced, naked, to name a very few.  I sleep (perhaps sleep is too generous a word) with the iPhone and iPad by our bed.  When I awake each morning, before my morning prayers, before I make a “comfort stop,” before I do anything else, I reach over, check my emails, the news of this early day, and perhaps Facebook installations.  I want to be clear about this, I have a love-hate relationship with technology, far more accurately, my life is far more dependent on the immediacy technology affords than I could have ever anticipated.
So here’s what I have learned.  And please understand, on most occasions I am able to differentiate between that which has been learned (perhaps a cognitive exercise) and integrating that which has been learned into my experience (more often than not, an exercise of the heart [namely, putting into real practice]).
It is not conducive to a healthy, holy and happy relationship to be so inextricably connected to our technological devices.  So yes David, the worst place to keep your iPhone and iPad is by your bed.  And perhaps it is far better to walk downstairs (Tracy typically begins her day before me) and bid good morning to your wife prior to doing anything else, duh?  Similarly, consider for a moment the number of times you have observed couples in “social situations” with their heads looking down at their phones rather than directed toward one another.  You must know what I’m on about.  Tracy and I recently saw the film “Her” which was about a guy who fell in love with his OS, his Operating System.  Unfortunately this story wasn’t too far from home.  I have also learned that this immediate and expedient culture of which we are a part (technology is the vehicle) doesn’t necessarily ensure healthy, holy and happy relationships.  Sometimes we need to pause and consider and reconsider our responses before we make them.  Sometimes we discover that delaying a far more substantive chat when a phone conversation or better yet, a face-to-face opportunity is possible, is a much better approach in ensuring the aforementioned 3H relationship.
San Joaquin, what has truly prompted my meandering is this.  I ask that we rely less on our email conversations particularly when they involve personal or delicate issues, and rely far more on the courtesy that each of us yearn and desire.  If we want to be involved in healthy, holy and happy relationships then let’s consider traveling without our phones once-in-a-while.  Let’s contemplate having our bedrooms as technological-free-zones.  Let’s assume an approach of “prayerful pause” next time we get an email which prompts us to consider firing back an immediate response which if truly considered, would simply complicate an already complicated situation.  Let’s honor, respect and care for one another by taking the time to have the sometimes “difficult conversations” or even the “not so difficult conversations” in a way that lead to healthier, holier and happier relationships.
So, when you receive a response from me which says, “Let’s hold this conversation until the can see one another and discuss it prayerfully and properly.”  Please don’t think for a moment that I am endeavoring to “put you off,” I am simply endeavoring to live in that 3H space with you.
+David

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

“Missional ” Day with the Bishop…

To all Clergy and Parishioners of the Diocese of San Joaquin,
In earlier Friday Reflections, Bishop David announced that he is looking for stories of mission and stories about the people involved in the “missional” experience of how you are joining God working in your neighborhoods. Bishop David wants to visit  you in your parishes and missions so to participate with you and capture and post on our website the good work that you are doing in your communities.  A few parishes and missions have already set up midweek “Missional “Days. 
 Thank you, Thank you, and again Thank you

For those who have yet to schedule a midweek “Missional” Day please do so. Please click    here for a “Missional” Day request form that will assist in the scheduling process. Please note that we are now scheduling dates for Bishop David September 2014 and beyond. If you have any questions, please contact Ellen Meyer at the Diocesan Office at209-576-0104 209-576-0104 or [email protected].

   

People News…

Reverend Anne Benvenuti St. Paul’s, Bakersfield new book Spirit Unleashed has been recently published.

-from the cover
“In Spirit Unleashed, Anne Benvenuti uses analysis of real encounters with wild animals to take us on an intellectual tour of our thinking about animals by way of biological sciences, scientific psychology, philosophy, and theology to show that we have been wrong in our understanding of ourselves amongst other animals. The good news is that we can happily correct course. Drawing us into encounters with a desert rattlesnake, an offended bonobo, an injured fawn, a curious whale, a determined woodpecker, and others, she gives us a glimpse of their souls. Anne Benvenuti strongly makes the case that to change the way that we think about animals-and our way of relating to them-holds the possibility of changing all life on Earth for the better.”
“We Franciscans always believed that nature was God’s first revelation, and if we did not read and respect creation, elements, and animals, we would probably not know how to read the written Bible either. That might just be what happened. But in this beautiful book you now have a way through-and beyond-that will satisfy your searching intelligence and your seeking heart at the same time. You will surely enjoy this writing in both style and substance! I did.”

-Fr. Richard Rohr, O.F.M., Center for Action and Contemplation, Albuquerque, NM
Spirit Unleashed: Reimagining Human-Animal Relations has been published by
Wipf & Stock! You can also order it from Amazon!

For more information about Anne’s book click here.

Congratulations Anne!

From the Episcopal Churh Development Office…

The Episcopal Church’s Development Office is sponsoring a


Pilgrimage to Navajoland
October 20-26, 2014
This pilgrimage is designed to raise awareness of the region and to showcase the mission and ministry of The Episcopal Church in Navajoland and return to their dioceses and parishes to encourage support for Navajoland.  Participants will have the opportunity  learn the history of the Navajo and how they have embraced The Episcopal Church for over 100 years, visit historical sites and meet Navajo elders and clergy.
For more information please contact the diocesan office at 209-576-0104 or email

TENS …

tens logo

TENS ranks a TEN from parishes that have tried the TENS program

 

During these summer doldrums of stewardship, it is time to plan for the fall giving campaign. Last year, Holy Family Episcopal ChurchFresno used the program from The Episcopal Network for Stewardship, (TENS) with some success. The Dioceses of San Joaquin has joined TENS this year, so their material is available to each parish and mission to use. This year’s campaign, Walking the Way, looks very exciting. TENS provides everything a congregation needs for a campaign, except the people. They have document templates for pledge cards, bulletin inserts and even models of letters to various levels of givers. All a congregation needs is for a parishioner to step forward and coordinate the program. If you feel called to help your church, visit www.tens.org and talk to your priest about this opportunity.

 
Don Austin
Holy Family, Fresno
 

TENS was utilized by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Modesto as one of the tools that was part of our Tapping our Talents- Sharing our Gifts- Stewardship is Spiritual Healing Campaign last fall. St. Paul’s found that TENS had a positive impact on the success of their campaign and we plan to use it again in 2014.

 
Stephanie Gilmer
St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
 

Access to the membership only portion of the TENS website is available by calling the diocesan office to get the diocesan code for 2014.

EFM Training…

EFM

EFM Mentor Training
We just scheduled the annual EfM Mentor training.  This training is mandatory for all those who want to mentor an EfM class but it’s open to everyone who just wants to learn more about EfM.  It’s particularly good for current EfM students who want a summer EfMexperience.  All are welcome.

 
 
When:  August 13, 14 & 15
Starts:  2pm on Wednesday, 8:30am on Thursday, 8:30am on Friday.
Ends:  3pm on Friday
Where:  Holy Family Episcopal Church – Fresno
Cost:  $195.00 per person
 

Contact Holy Family Episcopal Church at [email protected] with any questions.

From Commission on Ministry…

 

Day of Discovery

A Program for Discerning Ministry in the Episcopal Church

 
September 6, 2014
10:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.
Christ the King Community Episcopal Church
6443 Estella Avenue, Riverbank, CA 95367
 

Day of Discovery is designed to help Episcopalians broaden their understanding and appreciation of the four groups of ministers in the Episcopal Church. Participants will discover new arenas for ministry as well as see and experience the complementary relationship between all ministers of the Church.

 

Some people limit their definition of discernment as primarily an activity to find THEIR ministry, THEIR career, or THEIR place. This program, on the other hand, will define discernment as primarily a lifelong process of perceiving, listening, and responding to the movement of the Holy Spirit.

 

Most of all, Day of Discovery is designed to help people Discover and Appreciate the Mission and Ministry of Christ, how the Episcopal Church expresses that ministry, and how each person fits into that expression.

 

For more information and registration form on Day of Discovery click here

For Northern Deanery…

Northern Deanery Meeting
 

There will be a Northern Deanery Meeting Friday, August 15, 2014 at  St. John the Evangelist, Stockton.
 
There will be a Holy Eucharist at 3:00 p.m. and the deanery meeting will be at 4:00 p.m.
 
This meeting is our agreed  follow-up meeting to our May meeting regarding the future of St. John’s. At this meeting we will review our progress at St. John’s and further brainstorm ideas about the future of this ministry. Anyone interested in the ministry at St. John’s is welcome to attend.
 

For Southern Deanery…

Southern Deanery Meeting
The next Southern Deanery meeting is currently scheduled for

From the Diocesan Office…

For All Clergy and Parishoners:

The Diocesan Staff would appreciate your assistance in getting the contact information for the Provast, Chancellor, Dean, or President of the public and private universities, colleges and junior colleges in our geographical location. If you know who to contact, please call the diocesan office or email [email protected].
For Clergy and Delegates to Annual Convention:

The 2015 Annual Convention notification packets will be mailed at the end of July. Please inform the Diocesan Office if you do not receive your packet.
For Treasurers:
Be sure to use the 2014 Treasurer Monthly form and discard older forms.
Click here for the 2014 form.
Reminder:


The Bronze Disaster Preparedness Plan… 

 is to be completed by all parishes and missions and turned into the Diocesan Office. Many thanks to St. Clare of Assisi- Avery, St Matthew’s- San Andreas, St. James- Sonora, St. John the Baptist- Lodi, St. Raphael’s- Oakhurst, Holy Trinity- Madera and Church of the Saviour- Hanford, St. Paul’s- Bakersfield for completing their plan.

If your parish or mission has yet to complete the plan get ‘er done. 
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].

Thank you,

Ellen Meyer,

Administrator

Whats going on…

What’s Happening in the DIO
 
Diocesan Council Teleconference Meeting, Thursday, July 24, 2014, 5:30 p.m.
 
EfM Training August 13-15, Holy Family, Fresno
 
Northern Deanery Eucharist August 15, 2014  3:00 p.m., St. John’s, Stockton
 
Northern Deanery Meeting August 15, 2014  4:00 p.m., St. John’s, Stockton
 
Day of Discovery, September 6, 2014, 10:00 a.m., Christ the King, Riverbank
 
Southern Deanery Meeting, September 20. 2014, 10:00 a.m. Location TBD
 
Standing Committee Meeting, September 20, 2014, 10.00 a.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Joint Meeting of the Standing Committee and Diocesan Council September 20, 2014, 12 noon, Holy Family, Fresno
 
Diocesan Council Meeting, September 20, 2014, 1:00 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto


   Click on the link below to see more upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

 

From Our Parishes and Missions…

The Bluegrass Festival planned for
Saturday July 12, 2014 at Christ the King, Riverbank has been postponed. 
Watch this space for a later date.
+++

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church is happy to announce that….

This past Lord’s Day at Saint Matthew’s Church in San Andreas, two new Mosaics (fashioned in Beirut, Lebanon) were Blessed during the Sunday Mass.  The Mosaic of Jesus Christ our High Priest was placed about the entrance doors going into the church, and the Mosaic of The Blessed Mother:  Our Lady of Guadalupe was placed in the Narthex stairway going into the Choir Loft.

 
 

For the Bishop and  Canon’s Calendar…

Bishop David’s Calendar –Click Here
 
Canon Kate’s Calendar-Click Here

 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here
Diocesan Website and Facebook…
 Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org  
Facebook  
Check out postings from Bishop David and Canon Kate at
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

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Join Our Mailing List

 The Friday Reflection Title

5-29-2014

What exactly does it mean to be missional?
 
As most of you know Karen and I are Huskers.  Go into any part of our house and you will undoubtedly find some memorabilia relating to the Nebraska Cornhusker football team. Although Karen and I have lived much of our adult lives in Japan, Missouri, Nevada and now California, we will always be Nebraskans at heart.  And, we are not shy about letting others know that we consider Nebraska the closest thing to heaven here on earth.
 
What does being a Nebraskan have to do with being missional?  To me they are closely linked.  In rural Nebraska neighbors looked out for neighbors.   Being a Christian is how I identify who I am and what I am called to do.  As a Christian being missional is not being shy about being a follower of Christ.  It is taking His message to the people, not waiting for them to come to me.  It is action not theological discussions.  It is saying to my neighbor, “Let me help you with that.”
 
God sent Jesus, Jesus sent the disciples, and now we are sent – missio Dei.  In several sermons I have reminded our congregation that while St. James is a beautiful building, and we are happy to be there.  It is JUST a building.  It was made by human hands and will not endure.  What we have as Christians will endure.  It is eternal.  We are the church.   I know that missional includes such things as working for social justice, helping the oppressed, and providing for the homeless, but I urge those who worship at St. James that to be missionaries for Christ does not necessarily mean doing the spectacular.  While newspapers and TV news shows depend on those who perform wondrous acts of heroism, it is as Canon Kate once told us; God is present in the ordinary.  It is the simple, ordinary things that we can all do on a daily basis.  The little acts of kindness that others notice.  It is being involved in the culture that surrounds us and meeting people where they live.  Being missional may be nothing more than helping someone unload packages from his or her car or offering to provide transportation to an appointment.  Don’t let these missional moments pass you by while waiting for your spectacular event to come along.
 
Fr. Andy Anderson
 

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

Requiestcat…

 Lewis J. “Scoop” Beardsley passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2014 in Newport News, VA after a brief illness. Scoop was born and raised in Watkins Glen, NY, where he held multiple jobs in the Salt Co. and Episcopal and Presbyterian churches. He and Rhoda worked full-time for the Episcopal Church and Conference Center in Oakhurst, CA, before retiring to Virginia in 1992.

 
For those who remember Scoop and Rhoda, Scoop’s son Chris says his mother Rhoda is doing well.  If you wish to send Rhoda a card call the Diocesan Office or email
[email protected].

From the Bishop…

Looking for Stories…
 
I am looking for stories, stories of mission, stories about people involved in the missional experience, stories about the ways in which we are joining with what God is already doing in streets, lanes and cul de sacs near us.  And so, I will be coming to you with I Pad or I Phone or Go Pro (a wee camera I can mount anywhere including on my mitre) or all the above, to capture your story, our story, the story of the People of God engaging, serving, living.  I hope to post these stories on our Website, perhaps on Face book.  I hope to ensure that our stories are told.  I hope to ensure that San Joaquin is known as a place where faithful Episcopalians are involved in the lives of the people in our communities.
 
Bishop with camera will see you soon.
 
Blessings
+David

For Northern Deanery…

Northern Deanery Meeting – Saturday, 10 am June 14 @ Christ the King, Riverbank
 
There will be a Northern Deanery Meeting a June 14, 2014,10:00 a.m. at Christ the King, Riverbank. At this meeting we will elect officers for the coming year, conduct regular deanery business and also hear a report regarding the returning properties of the diocese with an emphasis on the properties anticipated to be returned in the Northern Deanery (St. Matthias, Oakdale; St. Mary’s, Manteca, St. Mark’s, Tracy as well as St. John’s, Stockton).Anyone who is interested in the ministry in the Northern Deanery is welcome and encouraged to attend.
 

For Central Deanery…

Fresno Town Hall Meeting – Wednesday, 6 pm June 4 @ Holy Family, Fresno
 
There will be a town hall meeting with Bishop David and Canon Kate on Wednesday, June 4, 6:00 p.m. at Holy Family in Fresno. It appears that the Episcopal Church may soon be in possession of St. James’ Cathedral, St. Mary’s, St. Martin’s as well as Holy Family, Fresno with a court decision about St. Columba’s yet to come.  We are calling a meeting to brainstorm and plan for the return of all of these properties. Please come and share your ideas and concerns. This meeting is for ANYONE who is interested to what might happen with these properties.  Certainly if you have been a member or are presently a member of any of these parishes, you are especially welcome.
 

A meeting of the Central Deanery has been called to discuss properties in those areas of the diocese.The Central Deanery Meeting is currently scheduled for July 13, 2013, 3:00 p.m. at Holy Family, Fresno.

 

For Southern Deanery…

Bakersfield Town Hall Meeting – Wednesday, 7 pm June 11 @ St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 

There will be a town hall meeting with Bishop David and Canon Kate on Wednesday, June 11, 2014, 7:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s in Bakersfield. It appears that the Episcopal Church may soon be in possession of All Saints, St. Luke’s, as well as the already returned St. Paul’s, Bakersfield.  We are calling a meeting to brainstorm and plan for the return of all of these properties. Please come and share your ideas and concerns. This meeting is for ANYONE who is interested to what might happen with these properties.  Certainly if you have been a member or are presently a member of any of these parishes, you are especially welcome.
A meeting of the  Southern Deanery has been called to discuss properties in those areas of the diocese. The Southern Deanery meeting is currently scheduled for 10:00 a.m., July 12, 2014 at St. Andrew’s in Taft.

Did you know..

Did you know that the following writers were Episcopalian?

  • C.S. Lewis, Chronicles of Narnia
  • Madeleine L’Engle, A wrinkle in Time
  • William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet
  • Dorothy Sayers, Lord Peter Wimsey
  • Alexandra Stoddard, Daring to be Yourself
  • Cordwainer Smith, The Rediscovery of Man
  • T. S. Elliot, lyrics to the musical “CATS” (talk about trivia! He’s written much more.)
  • Susan Howatch, Mystical Paths
  • Hillaire Belloc, The Four Men, Vile Bodies
  • Jan Karon, The Mitford Series
  • Mortimer J. Adler
  • Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carrol
  • Dr. Samuel Johnson, author of the first dictionary
  • Richard Brinsley Sheridan
  • Joseph Addison (writer and editor)
  • William Congreve
  • Diane Mott Davidson, mystery writer, Dying for Chocolate Edith Pargeter aka Ellis Peters, The Brother Cadfael Mysteries (shown on PBS)
  • Father Jonathan Swift, Gulliver’s Travels
  • William Wordsworth
  • Jane Austen

Education on Ministry…

 EFM
Calling all peoples who are interested in deepening the Christian Faith, studying the Bible, Church History and theological ideas and reflect on connecting faith with life experiences.

10:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m.

We are all called to ministry and  the Education for Ministry (EfM) program provides people with the education to carry out that ministry. EfM offers an opportunity to discover how to respond to the call to Christian service.
Please let us know if you would be interested in joining a monthly seminar in the fall.
Thank you.
Peace, Joy and Abundance,
Stephanie Gilmer, EfM Mentor

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Modesto
[email protected]

From the Diocesan Office…

Picture of Bishop David 

At the Diocesan Office- Modesto there are pictures of Bishop Jerry and Bishop Chet. It has been asked many times when Bishop David’s picture will be hung beside them. A shout out to St. Paul’s, Modesto:  The picture is coming!

An 8×11 of Bishop David is going to be printed soon and if any other parish would like to have a picture please email [email protected] by June 15, 2015. I will mail the picture (frame and matting not included) once printed.

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].

Thank you,

Ellen Meyer,

Administrator

Whats going on…

What’s Happening in the DIO
Convention Arrangement Committee Meeting, May 31, 2014, 10:30 a.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
Fresno Town Hall Meeting, June 4, 2014, 6:00 p.m.,  Holy Family, Fresno
 
Northern Deanery Clericus, June 10, 2014, 11:00 a.m., St. John the Evangelist, Stockton
 

Bakersfield Town Hall Meeting, June 11, 2014, 7:00 p.m., St. Paul’s, Bakersfield

Northern Deanery Meeting June 14, 2014, 10:00 a.m., Christ the King, Riverbank
 
Southern  Deanery Meeting July 12, 2014, 10:00 a.m., St. Andrew’s, Taft
 
Central Deanery Meeting July 13, 2014, 3:00 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
 
Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto

   Click on the link below to see more upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.

 

From Our Parishes and Missions…

Portals to Prayer with Poets and Mystics

Deep Listening:  Heart to Heart

 

Thursday, June 5th 7:00-8:30pm,

The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist

1055 S. Lower Sacramento Rd, Lodi

 

Carol Bower Foote is offering a quiet evening designed for deep listening, by speaking selected sets of poems and writings around themes for contemplation. Time for silent prayer and reflection will be offered after each set of readings. Participants are invited to be present, silently receive the spoken offerings, then listen deeply for their own soul’s experience and message.   Conversation and discussion is not part of this experience.

Works shared will include Rumi, Rilke, Hafiz, Meister Eckhart, St John of the Cross, St. Symeon,  Marie Howe, Mary Oliver, David Whyte, Wendell Berry, Pablo Neruda, Li-Young Lee, e.e. Cummings, Willliam Stafford, Naomi Shibah Nye, and others.

 

Drop ins and guests are welcome from all parishes.
Questions?  Call Carol at 707-374-2124707-374-2124

Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars… 

Bishop David’s Calendar –Click Here
 

Canon Kate’s Calendar- Click Here
 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here
Diocesan Website and Facebook…
 Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org

Facebook  
Check out postings from Bishop David and Canon Kate at
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

A Preface to this week’s Friday Reflection
As most of you are aware from the most recent Chancellor’s update; the Schofield case (28 properties, ECCO, and the endowment funds) has tentatively been decided in favor of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin. This is the wonderful news that we have been hoping and praying for, and it is also quite profound for us and for our brothers and sisters of the Anglican Diocese.
We invite all of us as a community of faith into a “holy pause” as we reflect on the implications of this decision for all of us. We trust the Sprit to lead us into our next steps and next phase as we move forward.
The decision is tentative and we await further news from the court. Please look for further details from the Chancellor in upcoming Chancellor Updates.
Faithfully,
Bishop David Canon Kate
The Friday Reflection Title
5-9-2014
ECW is Alive and Well in Hanford
Although at the diocesan level the ECW (Episcopal Church Women) may not have as visible a profile as in years past, it is alive and functioning with great success at the Church of the Saviour in Hanford.
In the past three years we have raised over $12,000 to benefit our church’s ministry and community outreach. These include our Soup Kitchen, organ restoration, decoration and staffing of our nursery, Remembrance Wall in our Columbarium and the G.I.F.T.S. (Gifts Intended For The Spirit) Program. The latter is our church’s newest outreach program, and seeks to build on our Soup Kitchen’s work of providing nourishment for the body. Its purpose is to offer variety of activates for families, couples and individuals which feed the spirits of fellowship, curiosity, joy and recreation. They could include a night at the movies or at a local restaurant; it could include a day at an adventure park or zoo. We know these may be ordinary pastimes for us, but for many in our area they are unusual luxuries. Through the work of Teri Van Huss, our seminarian, and members of the ECW, this project is already underway, serving people and building links with our local community.
We also sponsor events of “in-reach”, special fun parish events such as a tour of Harris Horse Division and lunch at Harris Ranch, “Bring Your Favorite Wine” tasting evening, a trip to the Chaffee Zoo, and a parish pot luck to welcome Teri Van Huss when she first joined us. Moreover, when requested, we host receptions for weddings, funerals, and many community events.
Ladies, don’t you miss the fellowship that only women can bring to a ministry? ECW is a perfect venue to enjoy one another while doing the Lord’s work! Please, keep the ECW in your prayers!
ECW, Church of the Saviour, Hanford
“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”
About St. Mark’s ,Tracy…
Members of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and other interested Episcopalians….
There is a special meeting with Bishop David Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be at the home of Tom and Cathy Dugan, 49 Wisteria Lane, Tracy. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome to come.
People News…
Congratulations go to…
Teri Van Huss
who will be graduating from The School for Deacons May 18, 2014.
Administrator Ellen Meyer
was re-elected as the B+E+S+T (Bishop’s Exectutive Secretaries Together Province VIII Representative for 2014. B+E+S+T has been around since 1986 and is an organization for Bishop Executive Secretaries and Administrators. The mission of B+E+S+T (is to empower our members through networking and education to value our ministry and to support the ministry of our bishops and the wider Church
Facebook…
New Facebook Page!
Check out postings from Bishop David and Canon Kate at
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin
Did You Know….
History of the English Church
SPREAD OF THE CHURCH
From the time of the Reformation, the Church of England followed explorers, traders, colonists, and missionaries into the far reaches of the known world. The colonial churches generally exercised administrative autonomy within the historical and creedal context of the mother church.
As the successor of the Anglo-Saxon and medieval English Church, it has valued and preserved much of the traditional framework of medieval Catholicism in church government, liturgy, and customs, while it also has usually held the fundamentals of Reformation faith.
The conversion of the Anglo-Saxons, who began invading Britain after Rome stopped governing the country in the 5th century, was undertaken by St. Augustine, a monk in Rome chosen by Pope Gregory I to lead a mission to the Anglo-Saxons. He arrived in 597, and within 90 years, all the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England had gradually accepted Christianity.
In the 11th century, the Norman conquest of England (1066) united England more closely with the culture of Latin Europe. The English Church was reformed according to Roman ideas: local synods were revived, celibacy of the clergy was required, and the canon law of Western Europe was introduced into England.
The English Church shared in the religious unrest characteristic of the latter Middle Ages. John Wycliffe, the 14th century reformer and theologian, became a revolutionary critic of the papacy and is considered a major influence on the 16th century Protestant Reformation.
The break with the Roman papacy and the establishment of an independent Church of England came during the reign of Henry VIII of England (1509-47). When Pope Clement VIII refused to approve the annulment of Henry’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon, the English Parliament, at Henry’s insistence, passed a series of acts that separated the English Church from the Roman hierarchy, and, in 1534, made the English monarch the head of the English Church. The monasteries were suppressed, but few other changes were immediately made, since Henry intended that the English Church would remain Catholic, though separated from Rome.
After Henry’s death, Protestant reforms of the Church were introduced during the six-year reign of Edward VI. In 1553, however, when Edward’s half-sister, Mary, a Roman Catholic, succeeded to the throne, her repression and persecution of Protestants created sympathy for their cause.
When Elizabeth I, Henry’s daughter, became queen in 1558, an independent Church of England was reestablished. The Book of Common Prayer (1549, final revision 1662) and the Thirty-Nine Articles (1571) became the standard for liturgy and doctrine.
MOVEMENTS WITHIN THE CHURCH
The Evangelical Movement in the 18th century tended to emphasize the Protestant heritage of the Church, while the Oxford Movement in the 19th century emphasized the Catholic heritage. These two attitudes have persisted in the Church, and are sometimes characterized as “Low Church” and “High Church.” Since the 19th century, the Church has been active in the Ecumenical Movement.
POLITY OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND
The Church of England has maintained the episcopal form of government. It is divided into two provinces, Canterbury and York, each headed by an Archbishop, with Canterbury taking precedence over York. Provinces are divided into dioceses, each headed by a bishop and made up of several parishes.
The Church of England is identified by adherence to the threefold ministry of bishops, priests, and deacons, and by a common form of worship found in the Book of Common Prayer. The Church also is characterized by a common loyalty to Christian tradition, while seeking to accommodate a wide range of people and views. It holds in tension the authorities of tradition, reason, and the Bible, but asserts the primacy of the Bible. It thus seeks to combine Catholic, humanist, and reformed elements, historically represented by Anglo-Catholics (high church), Liberals (broad church), and Evangelicals (low church).
WORLDWIDE CHURCH POLITY
It was probably not until the first meeting of the Lambeth Conference in 1867 that there emerged among the various churches and councils a mutual consciousness of Anglicanism. Although its decisions do not bind the autonomous churches of the Anglican Communion, the Lambeth Conference has constituted the principal cohesive factor in Anglicanism. While population differences and other factors account for some variation in the basic structure among the churches, several elements do predominate. The diocese, under the leadership of a bishop, is the basic administrative unit throughout the communion. The diocese is a group of church communities (parishes) under the care of a pastor. In many of the national churches, several dioceses will be grouped together into provinces. In some, parishes may be grouped within a diocese into deaneries (rural) and archdeaneries (urban).
(Copyright 1999, Diocese of Oregon. All rights reserved.)
From The EPISCOPAL CHURCH website www.episcopalchurch.org
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
Time sensitive material can be emailed to: [email protected].
Whats going on…
What’s Happening in the DIO
Meeting with St. Mark’s, Tracy, May 13, 2014, 4:30 p.m.
Diocesan Council Teleconference Meeting, May 15, 2014, 5:30 p.m.
Standing Committee Teleconference Meeting, May 15, 2014, 7:00 p.m.
Communication Committee Meeting, May 24, 2014 TBD
Convention Arrangement Committee Meeting, May 31, 2014, 10:30 a.m.
St. Paul’s, Modesto,
Annual Convention, October 24-25, 2014, St. Paul’s, Modesto
Click on the link below to see more upcoming events and meetings around the diocese.
Meetings and Events
From Our Parishes and Missions…
May 16-17, 2014
Friday and Saturday
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield
Join Bishop David Rice
for a Weekend with an Internationally Known Visionary,
Author, Lecturer, & Entrepreneur
Fr. Eric Law, Episcopal Priest
Friday, May 16
Check-in 4pm
Honor Bar w/donation
(wine and beer)
Dinner 5pm
Session I 9-11:30am
Program 6-8pm
Saturday, May 17th, 2014
Breakfast 8-9am
Session I 9-11:30am
Lunch 11:30-12:30
Session II 12:30-2:30
Break 2:30-2:45
Session III 3-5pm
Dinner 5-6pm
Session IV 6-7:30pm
Wine, Coffee, Dessert 7:45pm
Registration form online at www.stpaulsepiscopalbakersfield.org
Click here for flyer to post.
From St. Andrew’s, Taft
The Rev. Heather Mueller is planning to walk the laps for the Relay for Life, May 17-18, 2014 at Taft High School. Her walking of laps will be the first survivor’s lap and then she will walk for several hours in the evening until the lighting of the luminaria. If any of
you would like to have a luminaria dedicated to someone please email her at [email protected].
The Rev. Heather Mueller is a member of the Soroptimist Club who has organized a team of walkers. The money from their walk will be donated to the American Cancer Society.
If you would like to donate please make checks out to The American Cancer Society. Thank you.
From St. Anne’s, Stockton
The Daughters of the King at St. Anne’s Stockton will be holding a quiet day on May 17, 2014 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Leslie Sanchez will host the day at her home, 3441 Windham Circle, Stockton.
Sylvia Dobrow will guide our prayer and reflection. Sylvia has requested that we each bring a notebook and pen so we can use some of the quiet time for journaling, Bring a Bible and a candle. Also bring a small treasured object such as a rock from a special place, a picture or an icon, a special piece of jewelry, a favorite book, or whatever…. We invite Daughters from other churches and any women who may be interested. We do need to know if you are coming so Leslie and Sylvia know how many to expect.
Please RSVP to Juanita Weber at
[email protected]
For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here
Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars…
Bishop Rice’s Calendar – Click Here
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar- Click Here

Have you checked it out?
Keep up to date on news and events with our
Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org

 The Friday Reflection Title

3-28-2014

Dear Friends,
 
On March 5, 2011 I was elected and then Seated as the Bishop Provisional of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin.  On Saturday, March 29, 2014, I will cease to be the Bishop of this Diocese with the election of the next Bishop. I most sincerely thank you all, lay and clergy of the Diocese, for your love and support and for the privilege of engaging in ministry with all of you.
 
I have come to know this as a Diocese of courageous and committed people who are dedicated to serving Christ as members of the Episcopal Church.
 
April and I will return permanently to Southern California and to “retirement” on March 29.
 
The Diocese of San Joaquin, its life and ministry, clergy and people, will always now be in our thoughts and prayers.
 
With gratitude, and appreciation, and thanksgiving I am,
 
Faithfully yours,
 
+Chet Talton
 

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

Friday Reflection is taking a break next week.
The next edition will be April 11, 2014

Call to Special Convention…

TOMORROW!

 

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

 

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.
Please contact Fr. Vern at
[email protected] for an email advance copy of the music.

For Northern Deanery

CONVENTION BUS INFORMATION

The Northern Deanery bus to the Special Convention in Bakersfield will depart the Modesto Vintage Faire Mall Park and Ride promptly at 5:30 AM on Saturday.  The Park and Ride can be reached from southbound 99 by exiting on Pelendale.  Turn south on Sisk Road.  The Park and Ride will be on the left connected to the mall parking area near Penny’s.  The Park and Ride can be reached from northbound 99 by exiting at Standiford and then north on Sisk Road.  The Park and Ride will be on the right.  For the return trip the bus will depart St. Paul’s Bakersfield no later than one half hour after the close of the last Convention activity.  On the 29th the following numbers can be used as contacts for the bus:(209) 765-392(209) 765-3928 or 765-3246.

                 

For Clergy…

Attention Clergy! 
The liturgical color for the Celebration and Seating of Bishop Rice  following the Special Meeting of Convention on March 29  is red.
AND
This week you should have been contacted by regular mail by the Church Pension Group. Church Pension is sending you a NEW CONTACT NUMBER.
This new number will enable you to log on to www.cpg.org and see all of your benefit information on one page. This means that you will be able to see your own individual Pension, Medical, Disability and Life Insurance information that you currently have through Church Pension all on one integrated page.

 

Please pay attention to your mail from Church Pension and do try to log-on to see how the new system operates. If you need help, or have not received a new number, please contact Canon Cullinane at   209-222-7124  or [email protected]

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
 

From the Office of Public Affairs…

 

Justice and Advocacy Fellowships

applications accepted 

for poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship

 
[March 18, 2014] Applications are now accepted for one-year and two-year Justice and Advocacy Fellowships for social justice and advocacy work for The Episcopal Church.
 

The Justice and Advocacy Fellowships for Domestic Poverty and Environmental Stewardship, new initiatives of The Episcopal Church, will provide financial support for service, professional development and education to those who are engaged in poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship. Hands-on experience, professional training and leadership development are intrinsic in the Fellowships.

 

Focusing on the Anglican Marks of Mission Mark 4 and Mark 5, the 2014 Justice and Advocacy Fellowships are sponsored by the Episcopal Church Office of Justice and Advocacy Ministries.

 

The Domestic Poverty Fellowships are one-year each and call for addressing domestic poverty in communities. The Environmental Stewardship Fellowship are two-years each and will provide leadership on key environmental issues in affected domestic communities.

 
Fellowships range from $24,000 over one year to $48,000 over two years.
 
Details, requirements, special data and instructions on applying are located herehttp://www.episcopalchurch.org/form/justice-and-advocacy-fellowships
 

“The Justice and Advocacy Fellowships for Domestic Poverty and Environmental Stewardship are ideal opportunities to focus on a myriad of possibilities, such as engaging in work with the poor, prisons, poverty, healthcare, climate change, water conservation, and other important issues of our society,” explained The Rev. Canon E. Mark Stevenson, Domestic Poverty Missioner. “The Justice and Advocacy Fellowships are available to candidates from any ethnic background or geographical location.”

 
Deadline for applications is May 9.
 

For more information contact Stevenson at [email protected] or Jayce Hafner, Episcopal Church Domestic Policy Analyst, at [email protected].

 
The Episcopal Church: www.episcopalchurch.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/episcopalian
Twitter: www.twitter.com/iamepiscopalian
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/EpiscopalChurchYT
 
On the web:
Justice and Advocacy Fellowships applications accepted for poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/notice/justice-and-advocacy-fellowships-applications-accepted-poverty-alleviation-and-environmental-
 

Women’s Retreat…


Dying and Living into Resurrection…Now.

 
As we celebrate Easter, we can find ourselves wondering – “What are we doing?”  Are we celebrating a past or historical event – the resurrection of Jesus?  Or are we praying into a future hope for ourselves?  Either way, is there anything the resurrection can say to us right now?  Is resurrection a “present moment” event?  This year the Diocesan Women’s Retreat will focus around these questions.  We will gather in the beautiful surroundings of ECCO, and through scripture, addresses, music, silence and meditation seek to encounter resurrection not as a past event or a future promise, but a present reality.  Once again this year, the Rev’d Luis Rodriguez will be our retreat leader.  Fr Luis is the rector of the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford and has a background in theology,counseling and spiritual direction.
 

Women’s Retreat

May 2-4, 2014

ECCO

Be on the look out for Registration Form  

in an upcoming email. 

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].

Whats going on…

Want to know what is happening in the Diocese of San Joaquin?
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.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

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

April 4, 2014

LENTEN FISH FRY

 

The Episcopal Church of the Saviour, Hanford

 

In keeping with the Church’s ancient Lenten tradition, the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford (519 N. Douty St.) will be hosting its annual Fish Fry on Friday, 4 April 2014, from 5:00pm-7:30pm.  Come along for a wonderful fish supper and fellowship, or take your meal “to go”.  Tickets are $15.00 and can be purchased at the church office or at the door the night of the event.  Please contact the Church of the Saviour with any questions at [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you there.

 

May 3, 2014

THE SPRING TEA

Christ The King will host their annual Spring Tea on Saturday, May 3 beginning at 11:00 am. Reservations and tickets are available by calling the church office or from a church member. Click here for for flyer for details and to post in your church.

 May 16-17, 2014
Friday and Saturday
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield
Join Bishop David Rice
for a Weekend with an Internationally Known Visionary,
Author, Lecturer, & Entrepreneur
Fr. Eric Law, Episcopal Priest
 

Friday, March 16
Check-in 4pm Breakfast 8-9am
Dinner 5pm Session I 9-11:30am
Program 6-8pm
 

Saturday, May 17th, 2014
Check-in 4pm Breakfast 8-9am
Dinner 5pm Session I 9-11:30am
Program 6-8pm Lunch 11:30-12:30
Session II 12:30-2:30
Break 2:30-2:45
Session III 3-5pm
Dinner 5-6pm
Session IV 6-7:30pm

 

Registration form online at www.stpaulsepiscopalbakersfield.org

 
 Click here for flyer to post.

 

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 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
April 6                                St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
April 13                              St. Andrew’s, Taft
 
April 19                              St. Francis, Turlock
 
April 30                              Church of the Saviour, Hanford
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Andrew’s, Taft
 
April 13                              St. Raphael’s, Oackhurst
 
April 20th                           Holy Trinity, Madera
 
 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 Tuesdaybefore 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

 The Friday Reflection Title

3-21-2014

I have often heard it suggested that Leslie Newbigin remains one of the most significant influences in the theology of mission (missiology).  This suggestion, I hasten to add, appears to be easily substantiated by the fact that many “missiological thinkers” like Tickle, Roxburgh, Law and the like, refer to and credit Newbigin for giving language and action to missiology.  In this Reflection, I wish to give thanks for the life and work of Leslie Newbigin.  And in doing so, I would commend to you his tome The Gospel in a Pluralistic Society which is a marvelous read.  In addition, The Open Secret and Foolishness to the Greeks are equally readable moreover memorable.  I will leave this recommendation to read Newbigin with you and I will await with interest your impressions and responses.

During the recent Clergy Retreat at St. Anthony’s in Three Rivers, I suggested to our clergy that they read the book, Missional, Joining God in the Neighborhood by Alan J. Roxburgh.  I want to seize the opportunity in this space to make the same recommendation to you.  I have already alluded to the fact that for Roxburgh and others, Newbigin sets a foundation for missiological thought and practice.  This is certainly evident in the manner in which Roxburgh begins Missional.
Roxburgh writes:”As a missiologist, Newbigin’s consistent focus in his writing over thirty years involved a continual wrestling with the question of how the gospel engages the culture of the modern west.  He was in a constant dialogue with the culture, in which he lived, and the gospel, which he loved.  It was a back-and-forth dialogue, not one-way.  Reading these books is to know one is listening in on someone who has spent time immersed in, listening to, and loving this culture in which he is embedded. (Newbigin lived in India for thirty years).  It’s striking how Newbigin doesn’t use this culture to get somewhere else – he indwells it and through that indwelling reads again the biblical narratives to ask how the gospel could reengage his culture in his time.” Missional, pg 42.

And so, Episcopalians in and of San Joaquin, I hope to introduce you to Leslie Newbigin if you have not already met.  I encourage to read Alan Roxburgh, Phylis Tickle and Eric Law and anyone else influenced by Leslie Newbigin.  And most importantly, I hope and pray that we, too, “will be in constant dialogue with the culture, in which we live, and the gospel, which we love.”  And that we will ever-increasingly join God in our own neighborhoods, walking with Jesus, and guided by the Holy Spirit.

Continued Blessings through Lent

+ David

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

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

 

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.
Please contact Fr. Vern at
[email protected] for an email advance copy of the music.

For Northern Deanery

 BUS TO CONVENTION UPDATE!

In an attempt to keep California Green, and help people offset the nearly $4.00 a gallon gas price, a few remaining seats on the Convention Coach to Bakersfield will remain at the $50 rate.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.

For more information and reservations please call Christ the King at
209-869-1075

                 

For Clergy…

Attention Clergy! 
 The liturgical color for the Celebration and Seating of Bishop Rice
following the Special Meeting of Convention on March 29

is red.

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
 

From the Office of Public Affairs…

 

Justice and Advocacy Fellowships

applications accepted 

for poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship

 
[March 18, 2014] Applications are now accepted for one-year and two-year Justice and Advocacy Fellowships for social justice and advocacy work for The Episcopal Church.
 

The Justice and Advocacy Fellowships for Domestic Poverty and Environmental Stewardship, new initiatives of The Episcopal Church, will provide financial support for service, professional development and education to those who are engaged in poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship. Hands-on experience, professional training and leadership development are intrinsic in the Fellowships.

 

Focusing on the Anglican Marks of Mission Mark 4 and Mark 5, the 2014 Justice and Advocacy Fellowships are sponsored by the Episcopal Church Office of Justice and Advocacy Ministries.

 

The Domestic Poverty Fellowships are one-year each and call for addressing domestic poverty in communities. The Environmental Stewardship Fellowship are two-years each and will provide leadership on key environmental issues in affected domestic communities.

 
Fellowships range from $24,000 over one year to $48,000 over two years.
 
Details, requirements, special data and instructions on applying are located herehttp://www.episcopalchurch.org/form/justice-and-advocacy-fellowships
 

“The Justice and Advocacy Fellowships for Domestic Poverty and Environmental Stewardship are ideal opportunities to focus on a myriad of possibilities, such as engaging in work with the poor, prisons, poverty, healthcare, climate change, water conservation, and other important issues of our society,” explained The Rev. Canon E. Mark Stevenson, Domestic Poverty Missioner. “The Justice and Advocacy Fellowships are available to candidates from any ethnic background or geographical location.”

 
Deadline for applications is May 9.
 

For more information contact Stevenson at [email protected] or Jayce Hafner, Episcopal Church Domestic Policy Analyst, at [email protected].

 
The Episcopal Church: www.episcopalchurch.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/episcopalian
Twitter: www.twitter.com/iamepiscopalian
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/EpiscopalChurchYT
 
On the web:
Justice and Advocacy Fellowships applications accepted for poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/notice/justice-and-advocacy-fellowships-applications-accepted-poverty-alleviation-and-environmental-
 

Women’s Retreat…


Dying and Living into Resurrection…Now.

 
As we celebrate Easter, we can find ourselves wondering – “What are we doing?”  Are we celebrating a past or historical event – the resurrection of Jesus?  Or are we praying into a future hope for ourselves?  Either way, is there anything the resurrection can say to us right now?  Is resurrection a “present moment” event?  This year the Diocesan Women’s Retreat will focus around these questions.  We will gather in the beautiful surroundings of ECCO, and through scripture, addresses, music, silence and meditation seek to encounter resurrection not as a past event or a future promise, but a present reality.  Once again this year, the Rev’d Luis Rodriguez will be our retreat leader.  Fr Luis is the rector of the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford and has a background in theology,counseling and spiritual direction.
 

Women’s Retreat

May 2-4, 2014

ECCO

Be on the look out for Registration Form and Retreat Schedule  

in the upcoming Friday Reflections. 

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].

Whats going on…

Want to know what is happening in the Diocese of San Joaquin?
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.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

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

April 4, 2014

LENTEN FISH FRY

 

The Episcopal Church of the Saviour, Hanford

 

In keeping with the Church’s ancient Lenten tradition, the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford (519 N. Douty St.) will be hosting its annual Fish Fry on Friday, 4 April 2014, from 5:00pm-7:30pm.  Come along for a wonderful fish supper and fellowship, or take your meal “to go”.  Tickets are $15.00 and can be purchased at the church office or at the door the night of the event.  Please contact the Church of the Saviour with any questions at [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you there.

 

May 3, 2014

THE SPRING TEA

Christ The King will host their annual Spring Tea on Saturday, May 3 beginning at 11:00 am. Reservations and tickets are available by calling the church office or from a church member. Click here for for flyer for details and to post in your church.

 May 15-16, 2014
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield
Join Bishop David Rice
for a Weekend with an Internationally Known Visionary,
Author, Lecturer, & Entrepreneur
Fr. Eric Law, Episcopal Priest
 

Friday, March 15
Check-in 4pm Breakfast 8-9am
Dinner 5pm Session I 9-11:30am
Program 6-8pm
 

Saturday, May 17th, 2014
Check-in 4pm Breakfast 8-9am
Dinner 5pm Session I 9-11:30am
Program 6-8pm Lunch 11:30-12:30
Session II 12:30-2:30
Break 2:30-2:45
Session III 3-5pm
Dinner 5-6pm
Session IV 6-7:30pm

 

Registration form online at www.stpaulsepiscopalbakersfield.org

 
 Click here for flyer to post.

 

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 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
April 6                                St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
April 13                              St. Andrew’s, Taft
 
April 19                              St. Francis, Turlock
 
April 30                              Church of the Saviour, Hanford
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Andrew’s, Taft
 
April 16                              St. Raphael’s, Oackhurst
 
April 20th                           Holy Trinity, Madera
 
 Have you checked it out?

Keep up to date on news and events with our
NEW Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin websitewww.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

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]

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.