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

Sermon

Lent 2, Year A 2014

There are so many stories in the news this past week that are continuing sagas.  The Malaysian airliner just disappearing off the radar.  What is happening on the Google barge?  But the one that caught my attention was echoed by an op-ed piece in the paper Friday morning – “Template for how not to raise a child” by Ruben Navarrette.  He referred to the story of Rachel Canning suing her parents for support – as she deems it – not necessarily as we would define it.  I thought about how she is looking for her parents to give so she can receive; how Rachel is not taking responsibility for or paying the price for her own needs and desires. 

Made me think about parents and children.  My dad taught me unconditional love, but that didn’t mean he didn’t let us fail.  It meant that he was there to help us when we asked, to affirm that trying our best was all he needed to be proud of us, and to let us know that he always loved us even when we messed up and had to face the consequences.  I’ve tried to be that kind of parent to my daughters. 

If we take a look at the God of the Old Testament, we get a God who would be obeyed or else.  God’s covenant with the people in the Old Testament was that they would faithfully obey God’s commands and God would deliver the blessing of a land of their own and innumerable offspring.  God would give to the people what they needed to prosper.  It’s no wonder that people today can’t identify with a God to be feared.  If you had a parent like that, you don’t want to have anything to do with God or church.

As Christians we put our faith in the loving God.  The one who’s covenant was to give his son to redeem creation once and for all.  A God who waits patiently for us to turn back when we wander off and forget to stay in touch.  Nicodemus didn’t quite know about that God.  He was familiar with the concrete God of acts and consequence.  He couldn’t understand a God that could love him so completely that God would send the only son to save us and not condemn the world. 

I used these lessons yesterday morning for the baptism of an infant, Malia Villanueva.  I talked to those gathered about the concept of being born again.  Yes, we are born through the Holy Spirit at our baptism, but it struck me that we are born again every time we make a major life change. 

It’s a new life when we get our driver’s license and savor independence, which comes with increased responsibility.  It’s a new life when we first leave home and have to support ourselves.  It’s a new life when we get married or find our life partner.  It’s a new life when we become a parent.  It’s a new life when we become a grandparent.  We are the same person and we are not the same.  Growth should happen at each of these stages.  We learn to be responsible for ourselves, for our relationships, for someone who depends on us.  More maturity is required to successfully fulfill each of these roles.  Knowing that we are loved unconditionally by God, assures us that we can learn from our mistakes without fear of never getting another chance.  That’s how much God loves us.  

          So what does God ask of us?  Simply, to do the work that helps to heal our hurting world.  As a community which stage are we in – teen, just starting to support ourselves, ready to take care of each other, ready to expand the family?  I think we’re getting close.  We need individuals volunteering to participate in at least one ministry and we need to be involved in activities that are taking place (like the First Friday concerts) to build our own sense of community.  Are we ready to go out and do that work? 

Almost.  It will happen because the Holy Spirit is active within this congregation.  We have been born again, through our baptism in the spirit, and anointed as Christ’s own forever.  We know that God promises good things to those who believe, who have faith.  God was willing to give his son for the healing of the creation, so we who believe can receive eternal life.  And the son willing gave his life so that we might receive that promise. 

What are we willing to do?  Can we continue to grow in this faith together until we are able to go out into the community and do God’s work?  This week take time and consider these questions.  We don’t have to make any decisions right away.  We just have to try to be a little better each day.   AMEN.

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.
 

 

 
 



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

 The Friday Reflection Title

 2-28-2014

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

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

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

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

Get your reservation in! 

 

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

 

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

 

                 

For Youth EYE…

Episcopal Youth Event 2014

WHO:

       Anyone in high school during 2013/14 year

WHEN:    

July 9 – July 13, 2014

WHERE:  

Villanova
University, Philadelphia, PA

WHAT?    

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

ADD-ON

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

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

 
 

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

 

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

 

So are YOU ready to go?

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

 

Click here for EYE Flyer
                 Click here for  EYE Registration Form

 

From ECF Fellows…

 

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

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

From the Diocesan Office…

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

 All mail for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin,

Bishop, Canon and Administrator

is to go to the current address:

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

 

Dio seal

If there is anything time sensitive

please email

emeyer@diosanjoaquin

or fax:

209-576-0114

 

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

Holy TrinitySt. RaphaelSt. James
for having all forms completed and turned in!!

Whats going on…

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

From Our Parishes and Missions…

   YOU ARE INVITED

on Saturday March 15th to

SAINT PAT’S  AT  SAINT MATT’S

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

to enjoy a traditional Irish Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

The donation is $ 7.00 and the money raised goes to

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

 

ASH WEDNESDAY 

 

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

NOON  —  LOW MASS   (with the imposition of ashes)

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

6 pm  SOLEMN MASS  (with the imposition of ashes)

EVERY FRIDAY IN LENT

PARISH LENTEN DEVOTIONS

6 pm  STATIONS OF THE CROSS
and

BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

(followed in the Parish Hall with a Soup Supper)

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

414 Oak Street,

San Andreas, CA

209-754-3878

 

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

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars… 

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

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

 The Friday Reflection Title

 2-21-2014

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

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

From The Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin …

 

  Madonna and Child

From the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Service of Dedication and Celebration

of the Ministry of

 

David Rice

 

as a Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin

 

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presider

 

Sunday, February 23, 2014

4:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

209-576-0104

Bring your Banner…..

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

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

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

 

Up date to last week’s announcement

 

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

 

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

 

                 

For Youth EYE…

Episcopal Youth Event 2014

WHO:

       Anyone in high school during 2013/14 year

WHEN:    

July 9 – July 13, 2014

WHERE:  

Villanova
University, Philadelphia, PA

WHAT?    

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

ADD-ON

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

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

 
 

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

 

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

 

So are YOU ready to go?

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

 

Click here for EYE Flyer
                 Click here for  EYE Registration Form

 

From ECF Fellows…

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

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

From UTO…

2014 United Thank Offering Grants

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

Click  here for grant application forms

From the Diocesan Office…

 All mail for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin,

Bishop, Canon and Administrator  

is to go to the current address:

 

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

 

Dio seal

If there is anything time sensitive  

please email  

emeyer@diosanjoaquin  

or fax:

209-576-0114    

 

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

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

Whats going on…

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

From Our Parishes and Missions…

 
It’s time again for…
 

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

February 21 & 22, 6:00 -8:30 p.m. 

 
Adults $30.00 and Children under 12 $15.00

 

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

 

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

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Visitations Calendars… 

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

February 23                      St. John the Baptist, Lodi
     

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

 Have you checked it out?

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

          The Friday Reflection Title

 2-7-2014
 
COVENANT COMMITTEE
 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 
These highlights are being shared with Executive Council this week.
 

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

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

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

People News…

 

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

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

For Clergy…

 

The Clergy Spring Retreat: Feb 25-27, 2014

Registration forms due February 14, 2014 

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

From The Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin …

  Madonna and Child

From the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Service of Dedication and Celebration

of the Ministry of

 

David Rice

 

as a Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin

 

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presider

 

Sunday, February 23, 2014

4:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

209-576-0104

Bring your Banner…..

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

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

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

For Northern Deanery

 DON’T MISS THE BUS!

 

Up date to last week’s announcement

 

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

 

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

                 

From the Diocesan Office…

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

From the Diocesan Office…

Upcoming Meetings and Events:

 

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

From Our Parishes and Missions…

Julian of Norwich  

Love Suffering and the Cross:

A Retreat with Julian of Norwich

 

February 12-14, 2014

 

Due to lack of interest this event was cancelled

 

 

It’s time again for…
 

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

February 21 & 22, 6:00 -8:30 p.m. 

 
Adults $30.00 and Children under 12 $15.00

 

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

 

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Calendars… 

Bishop Talton’s Calendar 

February 20                   Diocesan Council Meeting

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

February 23                      St. John the Baptist, Lodi
     

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

From the Editor: ECF Vital Practices Newsletter

February 5, 2014
This month brings the beginning of one of my favorite things: the winter Olympics.  The dates are in my calendar; I plan to spend as much time as I can watching the skating, skiing, sledding, and other events, grateful that people across the globe willingly set aside their differences and come together to play games.
In our congregations and faith communities, February often means the coming together of new leadership teams. As annual meetings are held, new vestry members are elected or selected, and appointments are made to committees and task forces. It is a time of change, a time to welcome new faces and new approaches, and a time to reflect on what’s past and consider the way forward – keeping the things that are good and finding the courage to change the things that haven’t been working too well.
Our February Vestry Papers articles share experiences of things that are working well for congregations. From the very practical – Bob Schorr’s recommendation for more productive meetings to the way the Episcopal Church in Vermont is stirring the spirit…
This month in Vestry Papers:
How might a congregation ‘refresh’ it’s spiritual identity, keeping it front and center in all that they do? “Ongoing Discernment: The Way of Jesus” by Blair Pogue shares how St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church keeps Christ at the center of all they do through their practices Dwelling in the Word and The Way of Jesus.
You’ve been elected or selected senior warden for your congregation. You’re eager to take on this challenge and, truth be told, a bit anxious. Demi Prentiss’ “Roadmap for Senior Wardens,” weaves the collective experience of senior wardens into a practical orientation tool to help you get started.
Can the Episcopal Church learn something from Tevye of “Fiddler on the Roof?” In “Stirrings of the Spirit” Tom Ely and Susan Ohlindal use Tevye’s struggle to adapt to the changes he faces to introduce the ways the Episcopal Church in Vermont is “open [ing] ourselves to new understandings and expressions of what it means to be spiritual beings.”
Could the way you run your meetings be keeping people away from leadership positions? Many of us have sat through meetings that drone on and on, spending valuable time dealing with routine reports or rehashing business from earlier meetings. To help congregational leaders break that cycle, Bob Schorr offers “The Consent Agenda: More Efficient Meetings.”
In addition to these new Vestry Papers articles, ECF Vital Practices offers many other resources for congregational leaders. Recently, Linda Grenz, canon to the ordinary in the Diocese of Rhode Island and founder of LeaderResources shared a piece on vestry orientation. You’ll find her piece, The Vestry Hand-Off: Orientation for new members in Your Turn.  Do you have a resource you’d like to share with other congregations? Consider posting it on Your Turn: If you’ve a subscriber, click on the Make a Submissionbutton. Not a subscriber? It’s easy – and free – just click here.
If you are interested in seeing our Spanish language content, please visit our new, searchable index for our Spanish content here; then click on the “ECFVP en Español” button on the right side of the page.
And, please remember to share this issue of Vestry Papers with others in your congregation, along with an invitation to subscribe to ECF Vital Practices. Subscriptions are free; visit ECFVP.org and click on the Subscribe tab on the upper right hand corner of this page. New subscribers are asked to fill out a short registration form to have Vestry Papers and ECF Vital Practices content delivered twice a month to your email inbox.
Faithfully,
Nancy
Nancy Davidge
Editor, ECF Vital Practices

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Tools & Resources

Great Vestry Retreats: Check out some great resources for orientations, retreats, and running meetings to kick-start your new leadership team.
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Vestry Resource Guide: Get your copy of the award-wining guide for being on the vestry.

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          The Friday Reflection Title

 
1-17-2014       
 

The Book of Common Prayer and the Constitution of the Episcopal Church require that each person ordained as deacon, priest and bishop make a Declaration of Conformity. The Declaration reads:

 

     In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,

I, (name), chosen Bishop (or Priest or Deacon)

of the Church in the Diocese of San Joaquin,

solemnly declare that I do believe that the

 Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be

the word of God, and to contain all things necessary to salvation;

and I solemnly engage to conform to the doctrine, discipline and

worship of the Episcopal Church.

 

Because, Bishop David Rice was ordained as bishop in the Anglican Church of New Zealand he has not made the Declaration of Conformity. He must make this declaration as a bishop in the Episcopal Church.

 

Bishop Rice will make the Declaration of Conformity within a Celebration of the Holy Eucharist and in the presence of The Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts-Schori. The service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. 1528 Oakdale Road, Modesto, Sunday, February 23, 2014 at 4:00 p.m.

 

Bishop Jerry Lamb, Bishop Barry Beisner and other bishops will also be present. It is most important for the clergy, vested in white, to be present for this service and it is important that lay members of the Diocese be present to witness as Bishop Rice makes the Declaration and to celebrate the occasion.

 

I look forward to being with all of you and Bishop Rice and our Presiding Bishop for this important time in the life of the Diocese.

Faithfully,
 
+Chet Talton

“Participating in God’s Reconciling Love”

IF You Borrowed…..

If you borrowed the white vinyl banner that has the Episcopal shield and the words  The Episcopal Church Welcomes You please call the Diocesan Office at 209-576-0104 immediately. We need it back! Thank you.

From Integrity of Diocese of San Joaquin…


 

  It’s Not Too Late to Register! 

 

Join the Integrity LGBT and Allies Winter

 Retreat at ECCO!!

The 2nd Annual Winter Retreat for the San Joaquin Chapter of Integrity will be held at ECCO in Oakhurst on January 24 – 26, 2014.  We are thrilled to have the Rev. Dr. Caroline ‘Caro’ Hall, President of Integrity USA, as our 2014 Retreat Leader.  The retreat beginsFriday evening, January 24th as we arrive at ECCO and gather for fellowship, snacks and a movie.

On Saturday, the Rev. Dr. Caro Hall, Integrity President, leads our retreat program throughout the day. On Sunday, after morning Eucharist (joined by our friends from St. Raphael’s, Oakhurst) and free time, we enjoy lunch together before departure.

Accommodations at ECCO are $119 per person/double room and include 2 nights lodging and 5 meals. Registration deadline is January 6th. For questions or to register contact the Integrity – San Joaquin Diocesan Organizer, Jan Dunlap at 661.201.2630 or[email protected]. Click here to get registration form.
About our Retreat Leader: One of Caro’s passions is helping people who feel excluded from a Christian faith community because their beliefs don’t fit the mold, to realize that Christianity is a lot bigger and broader than they thought and that God’s abundant love is available to everyone. Her background is in social work and non-profit management. Caro is English but has lived in the U.S. for more than 20 years – most of them in Los Osos, where she is now priest-in-charge of St. Benedict’s. She met her spouse at the Findhorn Foundation in Scotland where she lived for several years in the 1980s.  Caro is the author of the just-published “A Thorn in the Flesh: How Gay Sexuality is Changing the Episcopal Church”.  She also serves on the board of People of Faith for Justice, and is a founder of the Coalition of Welcoming Congregations.

From The Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin …

 

  Madonna and Child

From the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin

Service of Dedication and Celebration

of the Ministry of

 

David Rice

 

as a Bishop of the Diocese of San Joaquin

 

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presider

 

Sunday, February 23, 2014

4:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1528 Oakdale Road

Modesto, CA 95355

209-576-0104

For Clergy…

 

The Clergy Spring Retreat: Feb 25-27, 2014
 
Can you believe it? The President of the House of Deputies has agreed to be our retreat leader! The Rev. Gay Jennings has agreed to be our retreat leader. Gay is not only the President of the House of Deputies, she was also a former faculty and administrator for CREDO before her retirement. She is an experienced retreat leader and she welcomes this opportunity to come and be with the clergy of the diocese of San Joaquin. This retreat will be a Pre-Lenten opportunity for the clergy of our diocese to get into a spiritual and reflective place in their own lives in order to lead members of our congregations into a reflective Lenten mode.
 
Can you believe it? That the President of the House of Deputies has agreed to be our retreat leader?
 
Can you believe it? That this will be the first opportunity for most of our clergy to actually meet Bishop Rice?
 
Can you believe it? That we will once again be at St. Anthony’s Retreat Center which has the space for us all to meet at the lowest cost per person that we have ever been able to acquire?
 
There are times when everything does come together. Can you believe it? This is one of those times. Dear clergy, please do sign up now by using the retreat registration form found here.
 
I wish us all blessings on our retreat together.
 
Canon Kate+
 

Call to Special Convention…

 

Dio seal

The Recognition and Seating

of the

 Provisional Bishop

The Right Rev. David Rice

 

March 29, 2014

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Bakersfield

 

2216 17th Street

Bakersfield, CA 93301

Click here for Special Convention Schedule 

Check here for Special Convention Registration Form

 

Registration is due February 27, 2014

Postulant/Candidate Book Grant Fund Director…

 
                      Postulant/Candidate Dio seal Book Grant Fund
 

Many of you will have visited the book sale at our last Diocesan Convention. Over $200.00 was raised to help establish a new diocesan initiative – The Postulant/Candidate Book Grant Fund. Spearheaded by the Commission on Ministry, the purpose of the fund is to provide annual book grants to all postulants and candidates in training. It is humbling to bear in mind the amount of time and energy many of them contribute so that they might better serve our diocese, the Church and world; not to mention, the financial costs entailed which are extensive and in most cases come entirely from their own resources.

The hope is that each parish or mission in the diocese would be willing to contribute $100.00 annually to enable the new fund. Such a contribution would not only send a wonderful message to those who are committing themselves to Christ’s work in this particular way, but will ultimately benefit our Church as they continue to exercise their ministry among us.

Please speak to your Vestry or Bishop’s Committee members and encourage them to make this part of your community’s regular planned giving. Of course, individuals may also contribute to the fund and are encouraged to do so. Checks can be made out to the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin with a note in the memo – P/C Book Grant Fund. These can be sent directly to the diocesan office.

The Rev. Luis Rodriquez

From the Diocesan Office…

Upcoming Meetings:

 

  • Diocesan Council TELECONFERENCE Meeting, 10:00 a.m.
  • Standing Committee Meeting, 12:00 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
  • Integrity Retreat, January 24-26, 2014, ECCO, Oakhurst
  • Celebration of Ministry for Bishop Rice, Sunday,  February 23, 2014, 4 p.m., St. Paul’s, Modesto with The Most Rev. Bishop Katharine Jefforts Schori presiding
  • Clergy Retreat, February 25-27, 2014, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers, CA
  • Southern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 1, 2014, 11:00 a.m., St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
  • Northern Deanery Meeting, Saturday, March 8, 2014, 10:00 a.m., St. Anne’s,     Stockton
  • Central Deanery Meeting, Sunday, March 16, 2014, 3 p.m., Holy Family, Fresno
  • Special Convention, Saturday, March 29, 2014, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
Do you wish to see what else the Diocese is up to? Click here for The Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin calendar.

From Our Parishes and Missions…

Julian of Norwich  

Love Suffering and the Cross:

A Retreat with Julian of Norwich

 

February 12-14, 2014

 

Fr. Luis Rodriguez, the Rector of the Episcopal Church of the Saviour in Hanford, is leading this special retreat at St Anthony Retreat House in Three Rivers.
 
In large part it is the one he led for the diocesan women’s retreat last year; but, of course, this is open to both women and men.  While Julian of Norwich lived almost 700 years ago, her writing still seems fresh and profoundly resonant.  Her visions of Christ’s suffering reveal the depths of love, and surprisingly convey a sense of peace and joy.

As we look to begin Lent, come to St.  Anthony Retreat House to learn about and pray with this extraordinary woman.  Fr.  Luis, is a Friend of the Julian Centre in England, has visited there many times and led a number of pilgrimages to this holy place.

Please  feel free to arrive between 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. and to settle and enjoy the quite beauty of St.  Anthony’s.  The retreat begins with dinner on Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m. and ends with lunch on Friday.  For a registration form  and further information, follow this link:
http://www.stanthonyretreat.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Julian_of_Norwich-retreat-2014.pdf.

Alternatively, you can contact Fr. Luis directly via email at [email protected].

For our Diocesan Prayer Calendar….click here

Bishop’s and Canon’s Calendars… 

Bishop Talton’s Calendar
 
January 18                       Diocesan Council Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
Standing Committee Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
February 23                      Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
March 29                          Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Bishop Rice’s Calendar
 

February 23                      St. John the Baptist, Lodi
     

February 23                      Service of Dedication and Celebration of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
February 25-27                 Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 2                             St. Michael’s, Ridgecrest
 
March 5                             Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 9                             St. James, Sonora
 
March 16                           St. Paul’s, Visalia
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 30                           St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
Canon Cullinane’s Calendar
 
 
January 18                        Diocesan Council Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
Standing Committee Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
January 19                        St. John’s, Tulare
 
January 24-26                   Integrity Retreat, ECCO
 
February 23                       Service of Dedication and Celebration  of
the Ministry of Bishop Rice, St. Paul’s, Modesto
 
February 25-27                 Clergy Retreat, St. Anthony Retreat, Three Rivers
 
March 1                             Southern Deanery Meeting, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
March 8                             Northern Deanery Meeting, St. Anne’s, Stockton
 
March 16                           Central Deanery Meeting, Holy Family, Fresno
 
March 29                           Special Convention, St. Paul’s, Bakersfield
 
 
 

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NEW Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin website
www.diosanjoaquin.org
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Contact Information: Ellen Meyer