A BEACON OF CHRISTS LOVE, SPIRIT-FED, SERVING OTHERS

M E S SAG ES
FROM ST. MARTINS EPISCOPAL CHURCH DECEMBER 2012

THE ADVENT SEASON: DONT SKIP THE PREPARATIONS

By the Rev. Stephen Bergmann

Inside this issue:

P. 2 Advent Quiet Morning St. Nicholas Gifts Advent Sunday Forums Christmas Flowers Fr. Jon: Lukes Christmas Story Christmas Pageant ECW Cookie Exchange Christmas Dinner Mary & Martha KISS Classes Womens Bible Study Youth Event: Journey to Bethlehem Youth Spotlight Mural Dedication Stewardship Update Legacy Fund Annual Meeting Diocesan Convention Cleaning with a Higher Purpose Book Club Birthdays, Births, Deaths, New Members, Tasting Party December lay ministry schedule December Calendar Bishop Smiths convention address

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The churchs season of Advent begins this year on Sunday, Dec. 2. Advent is the four-week period in which we prepare for the celebration of God having entered our world in the human flesh of Jesus, born of Mary. A new candle in the Advent Wreath is lit each week, reminding us of the approaching celebration of Christmas. From the Hebrew Scriptures we hear the prophetic promises and hopes for a Messiah. On the second and third Sundays of Advent, the Gospels focus on the ministry of John the Baptist as the forerunner who helps prepare us for the coming of Jesus. Then on the fourth Sunday of Advent we hear the story of Marys visitation to her cousin Elizabeth and the beautiful Magnificat, or Song of Mary. The important events in life are best planned and prepared for with attentive detail, I believe. For the most part, our secular culture simply skips the preparation of Advent and has already or will soon begin the celebration of Christmas without reflection. How sad.

No wonder the so-called Christmas or holiday season has such a hollow ring for those of us seeking a deeper meaning of Gods coming and presence among us. Advent, unlike Lent, is not a penitential season but is one of joyful anticipation and attentiveness. We are invited and challenged from being drawn into all the frantic busyness of the world that takes us from what we really need to be about in our preparation for receiving again the gift of God at the manger. In Advent it is important for us to give special attentiveness to worship and in the breaking of the bread. Give attentiveness to the rich and treasured music and beloved hymns of the season. Give attentiveness for hearing Gods word to us through scripture. And attentiveness to our inner self and soul to find space and quiet times for reflection, discernment and listening in order that God may more fully touch our hearts and minds. I wish for each of you a Blessed Advent.

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Special Events at St. Martins for Advent and Christmas

Read more about all these events inside this newsletter:

Advent Quiet Day

Saturday, Dec. 1 at 9 a.m. (at St. Matthews)

Youth Event: Journey to Bethlehem

Sunday, Dec. 9 at 5:30 p.m. (at Harvester Christian Church)

Advent Lessons & Carols

Sunday, Dec. 23 10:15 a.m.

Advent Event
Sunday, Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. in Park Hall

Christmas Pageant
Monday, Dec. 24 during 5:05 worship service

ECW Cookie Exchange

Thursday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. (at Wiles residence)

Advent Forums

Christmas Eve Worship

Monday, Dec. 24 at 5:05 & 10:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 9, 16, 23 at 9 a.m. All-Parish Dinner Allin Park Hall Sunday, Dec. 16 at 11:30 a.m. in Park Hall St. Nicholas presents due

St. Nicholas presents due

Sunday, Dec. 9

Christmas Day Worship

Dec. 25 at 10 a.m.

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ADVENT QUIET MORNING OFFERS REFLECTION ON THE MAGNIFICAT

By the Rev. Emily Hillquist Davis

St. Martins is teaming up with Confluence: A Center for Spirituality and St. Matthews Episcopal Church to offer an opportunity to help you stay spiritually grounded during the hectic season leading up to Christmas. Our Advent Quiet Morning will be Saturday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. till 1 p.m. at St. Matthews Episcopal Church in St. Louis. The Rev. Susan Skinner, musician Lura Koch and I will provide soul-stirring music, encouragement,

self-examination, centering, worship and Holy Communion. Well reflect on the Magnificat, Marys Song in the Gospel of Luke celebrating the transformative power of Gods blessing. The cost of the event is $25 per person, which includes live music, continental breakfast and snacks. Please register with Rev. Emily at edavis@stmartinschurch.org and send your check to St. Martins Episcopal Church (memo: Advent Retreat). This retreat is open to all.

ST. NICHOLAS EVENT HELPS OUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED

St. Martins Outreach Committee is collecting Christmas presents to distribute through Circle of Concern and Episcopal City Mission. Please share your blessings this season and help make it a Merry Christmas for our neighbors in need. Everyone is encouraged to stop by the St. Nicholas SUNDAY FORUMS FOCUS ON ADVENT Everyone is invited to be a part of our Sunday Forums in December, where we will gather in Park Hall from 9 till 10 a.m. to enjoy fellowship and focus our attention on the season of Advent.

display table in Park Hall and pick up a gift tag (for Circle of Concern families) and/or a gift wish list (for ECM). Return all your gifts to St. Martins by December 9. Circle of Concern gifts should be wrapped, with the gift tag attached. Please do not wrap the gifts for ECM. The need is greater than ever this year. Thank

activities for the kids (no regular Sunday School classes today) and a delicious breakfast buffet provided by Catering by Julia.

Sunday, Dec. 9, 16, 23 - Advent Forums Fr. Stephen continues the Advent discussions, focusing on scripture with an opportunity for Q & A (kids will have Sunday, Dec. 2 - Advent Event All ages are invited for an introduction to the season with their regular Sunday School classes). Fr. Jon and Fr. Stephen. There will also be fun Advent CHRISTMAS FLOWERS 2012 COUPON
Donations to the Flower Fund allow the Altar Guild to provide poinsettias and other flowers to decorate the church for Christmas. To participate, please complete and return this coupon with your contribution ($30 or more suggested). Please mark Christmas Flowers on your checks memo line. Drop these in the offering plate during a service or mail to the church office.

Your Name:

Please circle:
Given in Thanksgiving Memory Celebration of / for

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LUKES CHRISTMAS STORY

By the Rev. Jon Hall

This Advent begins a new year of lectionary readings from the book of Luke which heralds Jesus birth to a Gentile population. Lukes introduction to Theophilus Godworshipper, who was probably a highranking Roman citizen and a new Christian believer, sets the stage for Gods gift of Jesus to the entire world.

when he leaped for joy in Elizabeths womb.

It is into this Rome-centered world of status that Luke offers this reversal of power so that the coming of the Christ child would be accepted by everyone. This is why Luke includes the shepherds and a lowly manger scene in chapter 2. Jesus humble status is a grand invitation for all to receive the good Lukes Christmas story is intended for those Contact the Rev. Jon Hall at jhall@stmartinschurch.org. news. What better way to show the power of most marginalized under Roman rule. The God than to bring the Messiah into the world as a annexed territories are to see that they are part of vulnerable baby in contrast to the power of Caesars Gods plan of salvation, too. It was into that world of Rome. This was truly Gods world and Gods people to government dominance and the worship of Caesar that be claimed. Luke tells of a different kind of Messiah who will May this Advent and Christmas remind us that God embody a very different kingdom. chose to enter a world of suffering with the gift of hope For instance - unique to Lukes Christmas story is the in a very surprising way. The words of the prophets were account of the very common Mary saying Yes to now the living word of God meant to shine a light into Gabriels announcement. The common population our everyday experience as well, to cast out fear, and to could identify with someone of Marys status. Also usher in Joy incarnate! unique to Lukes gospel is the meeting between Mary Blessings, Fr. Jon and Elizabeth. Luke uses this meeting to convey Johns important recognition of Jesus as the coming Savior CASTING CALL FOR CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
By Susan Gillies

Attention all youth of St. Martin's: We need your help to make this year's Christmas Pageant as fun and successful as ever! We need older youth for the main speaking roles (no costume needed), other youth who would like some lines, and even more for non-speaking animal, angel, and star roles. This year's pageant has some humor so it will be fun while still telling the traditional Christmas story.

There are lots of parts for everyone along with songs we'll all sing together. Practices will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 and 15. Dress rehearsal will be Sunday, Dec. 23 at 4:30 p.m. The pageant will take place at the 5:05 family Christmas Eve service. If you are interested in participating, please notify Susan Gillies at 636-778-0016 or susgillies@gmail.com Teresa susgillies@gmail.com, Reeves at 636-394-7085 or treeves1@hotmail.com or treeves1@hotmail.com, sign up in Park Hall before December 5. We will need to know if your child would prefer a speaking or non-speaking role and what practices he/she is able to attend.

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ECW CHRISTMAS COOKIE EXCHANGE

By Ann Kidd

Please join the Episcopal Church Women for our annual cookie exchange Thursday, Dec. 13. This year Stephanie Wiles will host the event at her house at 7 p.m. Please bring three dozen cookies to share plus a container to take cookies home

for yourself. If you would like to participate in a "Rob Your Neighbor" gift exchange, also bring a wrapped gift valued at $10 or less. All women of the church and their friends and family are welcome, but please RSVP to Stephanie Wiles. Join us for a delicious evening!

MARY & MARTHA GUILD CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS

By Ann Gravatte

The Mary and Martha Guild will have our annual Christmas Luncheon and Meeting Wednesday, Dec. 15 at 10 a.m. We will once again gift the women in need through the St. Andrews Organization. The choice is up to you and can be either a personal item or toiletries. Please do not wrap the gifts.

If you did not sign up to join us, please let your caller know no later than December 5. The Mary and Martha Guild is open to all women age 55 and up. Should you have questions about this event, please phone either Phyllis Duff at 636-532-5931 or Anne Gravatte at 636-394-1775.

MENS GROUP HOSTS ALL-PARISH HOLIDAY DINNER

By Bill Gamlin

St. Martins Mens Group invites the entire parish to a delicious, home-cooked (early) Christmas dinner Sunday, Dec. 16 immediately following the 10:15 a.m. worship service.

Well gather in Park Hall to enjoy a menu that includes roast beef and pigs-in-a-blanket for the kids. Donations of $7 per person or $20 max per family will be appreciated to help cover the cost of food. Please help the Mens Group plan by signing up in Park Hall.

KISS CLASSES RESUME IN JANUARY

By Carole Clary

The Adult Christian Formation Sunday morning class, Keeping It Scripture Simple (KISS) takes a break in December and resumes January 6, The Epiphany of our Lord Jesus Christ. Classes will be from 9 till 10 a.m. in the Packwood Library. Carole Clary is the class facilitator. Each class will include prayer and a close reading and discussion of the Gospel passage prescribed in the Lectionary of The Book of Common Prayer. During

discussion, class members attempt to discern what relevance and implications the passage may have both for themselves and for all Christians today. Epiphany looks ahead to the churchs mission to the world in light of the Nativity. It is the climax of the Advent/Christmas Season and The Twelve Days of Christmas which are usually counted from the evening of December 25 until the morning of January 6 when Epiphany begins. It continues until the First Sunday in Lent, February 17.

WOMENS BIBLE STUDY BREAKS FOR HOLIDAYS

By the Rev. Virginia Noel

The last fall meeting of the Tuesday morning Bible Study will be Dec. 4. We will resume meeting on January 8, but at Virginia Noels condo at 312 Clayton

Crossing Drive, #108. Our topic then will be Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) in the Apocrypha. New members are always welcomed.

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YOUTH TAKE A JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM St. Martins youth members are invited to experience a live reenactment of the first Christmas in Journey to Bethlehem. Ralph and Michelle Trieschmann will be leading this journey on Sunday, Dec. 9. The group will meet at St. Martins at 5 p.m. and travel to Harvester Christian Church in St. Charles. guides lead groups in a journey on a trail from Nazareth to Bethlehem. This event is free and open to all youth, families and friends. Everyone should dress appropriately for the evenings weather and a 45-minute walking tour. Free hot cocoa and homemade Christmas cookies will be available at the end of the journey.

The Journey to Bethlehem experience starts with an Please RSVP to Ralph and Michelle Trieschmann at indoor stage production and then moves outdoors where trieschmann.m@gmail.com. YOUTH SPOTLIGHT: KIKI COGAN St. Martins has a small, but mighty, group of youth members who are active in our church, our schools and our community. This is the first in a series of articles written by the teens to give us a glimpse into their faithful lives.
By Kiki Cogan

My name is Kiki Cogan. Im 13 and in the 8th grade. My favorite youth event that we did so far was when we went to Joplin because we got to work together as a group and got to meet people from other churches. Being a Christian teenager is pretty fun because when we have youth events with other churches, I get to meet more people and make more teenage friends. A lot of my friends are Christians, DEDICATING OUR TREE OF LIFE Fr. Jon Hall dedicated our new Tree of Life mural on November 17. Members Mary Drastal and Ellie Ecker worked together over the summer to create the artwork that adorns the entrance to our Sunday school classrooms.

but they dont go to church a lot. I dont really talk about my faith with my friends, though. My faith means a lot to me, especially when I really need the support of the church, when my day isnt going good or when I lose someone important to me. I really like St. Martins youth group because its fun. Other youth teens should join in it because its exciting and you get to meet new people every time.

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BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING
Portions excerpted from episcopalchurch.org

Stewardship is about being grateful, responsible stewards of the gifts we receive from God. The tradition of giving back to God and to the church comes from the Biblical practice of tithing, which means to give back a tenth of our earnings to God (Numbers 18:26). The Episcopal Church sees stewardship as more than simply contributing money to the church; its also about contributing time and talents, and volunteering for ministry and mission. Its about reaching out to build relationships from a perspective of abundance instead of scarcity. PLANNING FOR ST. MARTINS FUTURE
By Beverly Kinkade, Legacy Endowment Fund Chair

St. Martins Stewardship Committee would like to thank everyone who has turned in a pledge card and made a financial commitment to our church for 2013. To date, 61% of parishioners who received a pledge card have responded, making commitments of $339,000 to our church (last years total was $400,000). If you have not yet made a pledge, please prayerfully consider your blessings and make a commitment for the new year. And dont forget to catch up on your 2012 offerings! Checks must be dated (and postmarked) on or before December 31 to be eligible for a 2012 tax deduction.

Sharing your love for and treasure with St. Martins for future generations is an example of good Christian Stewardship. Planned giving allows us to extend a lasting thanks to God, expressing our gratitude for our lifelong blessings and helping provide a strong foothold for the faithful who will follow us. I was struck by the recent budget presentation made by our treasurer, Larry Cornelius, which envisioned many mission-based initiatives our parish hopes to achieve in the future. Would that our Legacy Endowment Fund was currently generating sufficient interest to substantially assist in the achievement of these dreams!

Dan Smith, the Canon of the Ordinary, has suggested that parishioners consider endowing their pledge. Once you have made your annual pledge to St. Martins for 2013, please give some thought to this worthy concept. In essence, if you normally pledge $3,000 a year, you might consider a $60,000 Legacy Endowment pledge, which would mean you would be continuing to give for twenty years after your death a meaningful and dynamic way of providing for St. Martins in your will. As always, please consult with your attorney and/or professional financial advisor when considering your estate plans.

ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 10 St. Martins Annual Parish Meeting will be held Sunday, Feb. 10 at 10:30 a.m. We will have one combined worship service at 9 a.m., with a brief coffee and fellowship break before the meeting begins. This event is our chance for everyone to catch up with all the business and ministry work happening within our parish. It is also time to elect new lay leadership for our church. The vestry nominating committee is now accepting applications for anyone interested in serving our church in these positions. To serve as a vestry member you must be confirmed or received in the Episcopal Church, attend worship regularly, be an active participant in the life of our church and be at least 18 years old. If you or someone you know would like to be considered for a vestry position, please contact Steve Young at sryoung3@yahoo.com sryoung3@yahoo.com.

DECEMBER 2012

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LIFTING A COLLECTIVE VOICE AT CONVENTION Bishop Wayne Smith called for changes to the look and feel of future diocesan conventions in his speech at the 173rd annual meeting of the Diocese of Missouri. This years event was held in Columbia November 16 and 17. Lincoln Drake, Larry Cornelius and Carolann Sternberg represented St. Martin's at the convention. The Rev. Jon Hall, the Rev. Emily Hillquist-Davis, Jeff Klieve, Rebecca Barger and Colleen and Abbey Hall also attended the event. Below are notes from two of our delegates. Read more about the Bishops address on page 12 of this newsletter or at www.diocesemo.org. Convention Highlights
By Larry Cornelius, Convention Delegate

The Plenary was in three parts on Friday afternoon and Saturday Morning. There were elections of lay and clergy representation to Cathedral Chapter, Diocesan Council, Disciplinary Board and Standing Committee. There were four substantive resolutions passed and one deferred to committee, though there were no major controversial issues in the overall scheme of things. There were three workshops on Resolutions and the Budget, a summary of the recent General Convention in Indianapolis and a primer on the Liturgical Resources for Blessing Same-Gender Relationships which Bishop Wayne Smith indicated he supports, with the appropriate preparation and planning. The high points for me were as follows: 1.) The presentation and video related to the Deaconess Anne House project in Old North St. Louis by the Rev. Jonathan Stratton. This project will kick off in 2013 with the purchase of the house and the installation of seven initial young adult members of the Episcopal Service Corps in St. Louis to live and work in North St. Louis for a year. 2.) The speech and sparring with Bishop Smith by the new bishop of West Missouri, Bishop Martin Field, who encouraged our diocese to work with the Western Missouri body after 123 years of separation. More to come when the Bishops get together to see what this might look like. 3.) Passage of a balanced budget that allows for appropriate conservation and allocation of resources and sets an example to the parishes. 4.) Video about the Rockwell House (at Washington University) and the diocesan college ministry that focused on three students and was so named. 5.) The Bishop's address that sets the stage for what will be the focus of 2013.

St. Martins members enjoy time together at Diocesan Convention: (from left to right) Jeff Klieve, Carolann Sternberg, the Rev. Emily Hillquist Davis, Larry Cornelius, Lincoln Drake, Abbey Hall and the Rev. Jon Hall.

First Impressions of Convention

By Carolann Sternberg, Convention Delegate

As a first-time delegate to Convention, I was a bit overwhelmed with the exposure to the process, but also intrigued and I feel I have learned a great deal. At the very beginning, the bishop welcomed everyone in attendance, stood up and instructed all to stand and sing. We were given copies of hymns; he began and we joined in, giving praise to our Lord. This then was followed with a short prayer. For me, this informal action brought spirituality into the otherwise formal proceedings. I was told this was the first time this had taken place and as one voice, I was very grateful. (Bishop Smith wrote a hymn for the occasion you can find the words and music on our website at stmartinschurch.org stmartinschurch.org.) I enjoyed this entire experience and would recommend others to take part in future conventions when the opportunity arises.

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CLEANING WITH A HIGHER PURPOSE

By Janis Greenbaum, Communications Coordinator

So far, Jason has four service contracts (including St. Martins) and is employing two Parish Administrator Janet Theiss people. The pastor says his church interviewed several local contractors could use additional financial and considered Corvus Janitorial support to help pay down the Services the most viable candidate franchise fee and to pay for because they offered the best price. insurance to also hire people with They also showed a willingness and criminal backgrounds. Its hard for flexibility I hadnt seen in any other those people to find jobs because of company, Janet said. their past. We want to help them get Pastor Jason Barney helps with cleaning duties at Perhaps that good impression comes St. Martins with Corvus Janitorial Service. past their past, said Jason. from a higher place: the franchise for Along with offering employment opportunities, Jason this cleaning service is owned by the Unfailing Love hopes the janitorial business will eventually bring Christian Church in North Saint Louis and is run by enough money back to his church to do more outreach Pastor Jason Barney. The janitorial service allows Jason in the community. ULCC is currently working to provide to employ members of his church and his community, safe, high quality transitional housing in the Greaterville with proceeds coming back to the Greaterville neighborhood. neighborhood. Jason Barney grew up in St. Louis and earned a Its a messed up neighborhood, Jason explained. Bachelors of Science degree in Industrial Technology Were in the middle of the city. Theres a lot of drugs, a from Southeast Missouri State University in 2003. He lot of unemployment. This is our way to help people who went on to earn a Master of Arts in Theological Studies are trying to do better. from Covenant Theological Seminary in 2006. The Unfailing Love Christian Church has been in North You can read more about Pastor Jason Barney and the St. Louis for about two years and now has more than 50 Unfailing Love Christian Church at ulccstl.org ulccstl.org. members. The church took out a loan to buy the Thanks be to God. BOOK CLUB PLANS FOR 2013
By Ruby Downs

Our new cleaning service at St. Martins is doing much more than sweeping floors and emptying trash cans its transforming lives.

Corvus franchise and began the cleaning service in August of 2012.

St. Martins Book Club has a special schedule for the holidays: Instead of meeting late in the month, we will meet Tuesday, Dec. 4 to discuss Saving CeeCee Honeycutt: A Novel, by Beth Hoffman. All are welcome to be a part of our discussion. We also have selected books to feature as we move in to the New Year. You are welcome to select one or all of these books and join us for friendly and faithful discussions:

January 22: Conversion, Take this Bread: A Radical Conversion by Sara Miles February 26: Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President, by Candice Millard March 26: State of Wonder: A Novel, by Ann Patchett April 23: Defending Jacob: A Novel, by William Landay

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DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS Dec. 2 Dec. 3 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 9 Dec. 10 Dec. 11 Dec. 12 Dec. 14 Dec. 15 Bob Huheey Grace Phillips, Jane Lee Jane Klieve Micki Quinn, Vikram Khanna, Angela Cadena Nan Johnson, Stewart Wiles Jim Pendleton, Karen West Judi Moon, Dana Kelly-Manternach Ellie Ecker, Cameron Cadena Kay Anstine, Andrew Wiles Adele Niblack, Jim Cash Lin Edwards Landon Dieck Jack Steele, Carol Johnson, Sean Parker, Eric Johnson Brian Calhoun Rich Brown Evie LaRock, Joe Fletcher, Dan Ford, Adam DuPont Heather Vogt, Katie Montgomery Jeffrey Moore Rebecca Barger, Reid Johnson Mary Nell Brooke, Stephanie Wiles, Lucas Fortune Louis Fricke Ruth Minster, Carol Sanders, Landon Fortune Bob Pomeroy Anita Bucher, Paige Bostic David Gatto Mary Ann Tasch, Mark Warren, Molly Clince

TASTE-TESTING THE NEW ECW COOKBOOK

St. Martins Episcopal Church Women hosted a tasting party on Nov. 11 with the distribution of their new parish cookbook. Several members brought in samples of recipes they contributed to the cookbook for everyone to sample. It was a delicious way to celebrate St. Martins Day!

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

St. Martins officially welcomes the Esper family: Allen, Ana, Rachel and Tanner.

Dec. 16 Dec. 17 Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 21

WITH BLESSINGS
The following births were reported in the St. Martins family in the past month: Erik Robert Nord, September 25 Parents: Katie Gamlin Nord & Jeff Nord Grandparents: Ann &Bill Gamlin Great-grandmother: Etta Peters Helen Elizabeth Hall, November 14 Parents: Robert & Matt Hall Grandparents: Rich & Theresa Luebcke

Dec. 22 Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Dec. 26 Dec. 30 Dec. 31

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/ stmartinschurch See more pictures on Flickr.com: flickr.com/ stmartinschurch

WITH SYMPATHY
The following deaths were reported in the St. Martins family in the past month: Lynn Naber, October 28 Mother of Rich Naber Edith Biederman, October 29 Mother of Steve Biederman

St. Martins Messages Newsletter is published monthly. If you have news or information to be included in our church communications, please submit it to jgreenbaum@stmartinschurch.org.

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DECEMBER LAY MINISTRY SCHEDULE Sunday, December 2

Altar Guild: Sherrie Algren, Mary K Heyde, Bette Crabtree 8:00 a.m. Greeter: Elin Cogan-Adewunmi Lessons & Prayers: Daryl Norman Chalice: Daryl Norman, DArcy Elsperman Crucifer: Tom Soule Ushers: Bette & Jim Crabtree 10:15 a.m. Greeters: Vikki & Jeff Nordeen OT Lesson: Susanne Kress NT Lesson: Michael Kress Prayer Leader: Jack Hauser Chalice: Michael Kress, Jack Hauser Ushers: Bob & Linda Huheey, Larry Cornelius, Bob Pomeroy Healing Ministers: Diana Hauser, Mary Pomeroy Acolytes: Abby Trieschmann, Clare Wilkins, Shannon Gould Childrens Worship: Teresa Reeves, Hope Cupini Eucharistic Visitors: Leanne Lyle, Mary K Heyde

Sunday, December 16
Altar Guild: Nancy Young, Vikki Nordeen 8:00 a.m. Greeter: Elin Cogan-Adewunmi Lessons & Prayers: Jim Crabtree Chalice: Jim Crabtree, Heidi Gioia Crucifer: Tom Soule Ushers: Ginny & Bob Marchetto Eucharistic Visitors: Rebecca Barger, Mary Richardson 10:30 a.m. Greeters: Carole Gerretsen OT Lesson: Rina Chittooran NT Lesson: John Lange Prayer Leader: Tom Allen Chalice: Kurt Greenbaum, Tom Allen Ushers: Jeff Nordeen, Rich Brown, Sherrie Algren, Mary Jane Drake Healing Ministers: Leanne Lyle, Barb McCann Acolytes: Lindsey Peters, Shannon Gould, Ellie Ecker Childrens Worship: Laurie Ann Flory, Clare Wilkins

Monday, Dec. 24: Christmas Eve

5:05 & 10:30 p.m. Lay ministers should check their personal e-mails for Christmas Eve schedules.

Sunday, December 30
Altar Guild: Ruth Minster, Sarah Aleman, Mary Nell Brooke 8:00 a.m. Greeter: Elin Cogan-Adewunmi Lessons & Prayer: Loretta Go Chalice: Loretta Go, Daryl Norman Ushers: Honor & Rich Hebenstreit 10:15 a.m. Greeters: Mopsi & Jack Hanley OT Lesson: Andrew Wiles NT Lesson: Judi Batch Prayer Leader: Chuck Batch Chalice: Judi & Chuck Batch Ushers: Tom Baranowski, Rich Eidson, Renee & Tim Jerry Healing Ministers: Open Acolytes: Childrens Worship: no CW today Eucharistic Visitor: Open

Sunday, December 9
Altar Guild: DArcy Elsperman, Diane Metzger, Helen Turner Murphy 8:00 a.m. Lessons & Prayer: Heidi Gioia Chalice: Heidi Gioia, Loretta Go Crucifer: Tom Soule Ushers: Maggi & Steve Brunkhorst 10:15 a.m. Greeters: Nancy & Steve Young OT Lesson: Michael Wiles NT Lesson: Ray Harbert Prayer Leader: Ralph Trieschmann Chalice: Ray Harbert, Ralph Trieschmann Ushers: Sarah Aleman, Chuck Batch, Lana & Joe Biondo Healing Ministers: Judi Batch, Bev Weaver Acolytes: Evan Fencl, Abby Trieschmann, Walker Trieschmann Childrens Worship: Kathy Willis, Clare Wilkins Eucharistic Visitors: Leslie Pattengill, Bev Weaver

Sunday, December 23
Altar Guild: Mary Nell Brooke 8:00 a.m. Lessons & Prayers: Jeanne King Chalice: Lou Voit, Sr., Rebecca Barger Crucifer: Tom Soule Ushers: Jan & Bob Waters 10:15 a.m. Greeter: Renee & Tim Jerry OT Lesson: Maxine Heller NT Lesson: Jeff Klieve Prayer Leader: Jane Klieve Chalice: Jane & Jeff Klieve Ushers: Wayne Peters, Mark Edwards, Bob McElroy, Steve Gillies Healing Ministers: Open Acolyte: Ellie Ecker Childrens Worship: Julie & Jack Clark Eucharistic Visitors: Ray Harbert, Jennifer Neckermann

If you cannot serve on an assigned date, please get a substitute and notify the church of the change. If you have any special scheduling needs, please contact: Readers, Chalice Bearers, Ushers, Greeters: Rebecca Barger 636-778-0799 / rsbarger@charter.net Acolytes: Bob Ecker 636-230-7302 / bobecker@kw.com Childrens Worship: Julie Clark 636-458-2584 / julieclarkot@yahoo.com

December 2012
Tue
1
9am - Advent Quiet Morning 2pm - Peace Meal 5:05pm - Alternative Worship

DECEMBER 2012

Sun

Mon

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

2
10am - Womens Bible Study Noon - Dio. Standing Cmte. Noon - Holy Eucharist 7pm - Choir Rehearsal 6:30am - Mens Bible Study 9am - Clergy Day 9:30am - Thursdays w/ECW

Advent 1

7
Office Closed

8
9am - Mens Group Breakfast 10am - Pageant Rehearsal 5:05pm - Alternative Worship

8am - Holy Eucharist 9am - Advent Event (all ages) 10:15am - Holy Eucharist

1:15pm - Staff meeting 6:30pm - Handbell Choir 7pm - Outreach Committee

9
7:15pm - Legacy Fund Cmte. 10am - Mary & Martha Guild Noon - Holy Eucharist 7pm - Choir Rehearsal

Advent 2

10

11

12

13
6:30am - Mens Bible Study 9:30am - Thursdays w/ECW 5pm - Executive Committee 7pm - ECW Cookie Exchange

14
Office Closed

15
10am - Pageant Rehearsal 5:05pm - Alternative Worship

8am - Holy Eucharist 9am - Christian Formation 10:15am - Holy Eucharist

1:15pm - Staff meeting 6:30pm - Handbell Choir ** Newsletter Deadline **

16

Advent 3

17

18

19
Noon - Holy Eucharist 6pm - Facilities Committee 7pm - Choir Rehearsal

20
6:30am - Mens Bible Study 9:30am - Thursdays w/ECW

21
Office Closed

22
5:05pm - Alternative Worship

8am - Holy Eucharist 9am - Christian Formation 10:15am - Holy Eucharist 11:30am - All Parish Dinner

1:15pm - Staff meeting 6pm - Vestry meeting 6:30pm - Handbell Choir

23
Office Closed 10am - Holy Eucharist

Advent 4

24

Office closes at noon

25 Merry Christmas! 26
(No Midday Holy Eucharist) (No choir rehearsal)

27
Park Hall closed for floor waxing

28
Office Closed

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5:05pm - Alternative Worship

8am - Holy Eucharist 9am - Christian Formation 10:15am - Advent Lessons & Carols 4:30pm - Pageant Rehearsal

5:30pm - Youth Choir Rehearsal

5:05pm - Christmas Pageant and Holy Eucharist 10:30pm - Christmas Carols and Holy Eucharist

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Office closes at noon

Happy New Year!

8am - Holy Eucharist 10:15am - Holy Eucharist

(No handbell choir rehearsal)

Visit us on the web at: www.stmartinschurch.org www.diocesemo.org www.episcopalchurch.org

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ST. MARTINS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 15764 Clayton Road Ellisville, Mo., 63011-2330 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Phone: 636-227-1484 E-mail: stmartin@stmartinschurch.org BALLWIN, MO. PERMIT NO. 57

Worship with us:

Sundays at 8 a.m. & 10:15 a.m. Christian Formation for all ages at 9 a.m. Wednesdays at Noon Saturdays at 5:05 p.m.

BISHOP SMITH CALLS FOR MORE SINGING IN THE DIOCESE

Excerpted from iSeek, Nov. 21

There is not enough singing in our lives, said the Rt. Rev. George Wayne Smith during his address at the diocesan convention in Columbia November 17. There is not
nearly enough of so many of the simple but necessary things. There is not enough crusty bread and good drink and garlic in our lives. There is not enough time simply be with one another. So heres to more singing. More good food and drink. More time together.

Bishop Smith celebrates Holy Eucharist during this years Diocesan Convention.

Bishop Smith also spoke about our relationship with the Diocese of Lui, South Sudan, the new Deaconess Anne House initiative in Old North St. Louis, The Bishop will appoint a task-force to and creating a position for a half-time study the possibilities of using music and youth missioner to begin January 2013. other elements to re-shape the look and He talked about the reality of hard feel of future conventions. That task decisions and responsible budgeting in force will issue a report no later than July the past five years that has allowed 1, 2013. "I am planning for a different funding these new initiatives. kind of convention," he said. "There is no way in the world that we

could have undertaken the initiative in Old North Saint Louis, apart from the practices of responsible budgeting. We have money available for mission that we would not have had otherwise. And these practices have also made it possible to fund a half-time youth missioner beginning in 2013. He or she will coordinate and plan Diocesan events, develop good communications for parishes and youth, strengthen networks of youth ministries in our Diocese. We need this position. We could not have afforded it under previous financial practices. These are some of the payoffs for the hard work that we have undertaken." Read the full text of Bishop Smiths address at www.diocesemo.org. www.diocesemo.org