The
LIFT
st thomas episcopal church
WINTER 2014-2015
TAIZÉ SERVICES TO RETURN IN DECEMBER
Georgia Stewart and Maryanne Whitcomb, Co-Chairs of the Taizé Planning Committee,
are pleased to announce the return of a series of Taizé services in early December.
These simple candlelight services are held on Wednesday evenings, at 5:30 p.m. during
the dark winter months, and last about thirty minutes.
The services are patterned on the worship style of Taizé, which is a small religious
community in France. These services were founded in the early 1940’s to promote
ways to heal the divisions between Christians of all faith traditions, and among all
religions in general. Parishioners interested in
further information about the Taizé service are
invited to visit www.taize.org, choose English or
Spanish, and enjoy a stroll through its history
and current activities.
Taizé
There are two distinguishing marks of the
A Service of Silence,
Song and Prayer
Taizé-like worship: repetition and silence.
Wednesdays in Winter
Taizé is a meditative prayer service that incorporates repetitive song and chant, scripture
December 3, 10, 17
readings, and several periods of group silence, in a setting of peace and soft
January 7, 14, 21, 28
light that fosters communion with God. After entering quietly, people are handed
a service booklet and a candle, and are invited into the gently lit worship space.
February 4, 11
At the front there are a few more lighted candles with an icon of Christ in the
center. For the next thirty minutes, there are chanted songs, silence, scripture,
and prayers of the people and prayers for peace among all people. Attendees are able to linger when the service concludes, should they so desire, after which departure is also one of quiet solitude.
We invite you to share in the spirit of Taizé this Winter through prayer together.
If you wish further information, or
have questions about the Taizé service here at St. Thomas, please call Joel Bejot, Music Director, or email him at
[email protected].
SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
4:30 p.m - Après Ski Service (January 10 to March 14)
8:00 a.m.- Holy Eucharist Rite I
9:30 a.m.- Holy Eucharist Rite II with Music
Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - Holy Eucharist with Laying on of Hands and Anointing
for Healing
Wednesday: 5:30 p.m. - Taize (December 3 through February 11,
except December 24 and 31)
Saturday:
Sunday:
NURSERY, CHURCH SCHOOL & ADULT EDUCATION
Nursery Care is provided during the 9:30 a.m. Sunday service.
Christian Education for children and youth is held during the
4:30 p.m. service on Saturday, January 10 through March 14.
Adult Education meets after the 9:30 a.m. service most Sundays.
OFFICE HOURS Monday-Thursday
10:00am—4:00pm
TELEPHONE (208) 726-5349
FAX
(208) 726-7570
MAILING ADDRESS:
PO Box 1070
Sun Valley ID 83353
EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: www.stthomassunvalley.org
www.stthomasplayhouse.org
REFLECTIONS FROM THE RECTOR
Vision.
That is a word that is coming up at St. Thomas Church a lot lately. What is our vision?
Where are we headed? What is God calling us to do next?
I believe there are natural reasons why vision is such an important word right now.
On the world stage, there is a struggle for what our collective vision will be. Will we succumb to
an innate sense of tribalism – looking only to our own group’s self-interest – or will we be able to
transcend the tribe and catch a vision of our mutual interconnectedness as beloved children of
God?
In the Church at large, there are competing visions for what life in Christ will look like.
Pope
Francis is certainly scrambling the categories a bit, shining the light on core gospel values like mercy, compassion, and
simplicity. In the Episcopal Church, we are grappling with how to be Church in a post-Christendom era – how to make
Church more of a verb and less of a noun.
At St. Thomas Church, we have just completed a sabbatical period in which I was able to rest and reflect and you were
able to experience different kinds of leadership in your visiting priests and among yourselves. In the period after sabbatical, it is natural for a parish and rector to reflect on questions of vision, identity, and direction.
The four listening sessions that we conducted this fall were a prelude to a more formal process of visioning that will take
place in the coming year. This process will include a mutual ministry review, in which the rector and vestry will reflect
on patterns of leadership, affirming what is strong and attending to areas that need improvement. This process will also
include a strategic planning component, so that we are not just thinking about the year ahead, but where we want to be in
three, five, and maybe even seven years. Given the health and stability of St. Thomas Church, I believe this is a perfect
time to chart our course for the future.
But I want to remind you of something.
Even before we begin a mutual ministry review …even before we begin a formal
strategic planning process…our vision is crystal clear. Our vision is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ who understood himself as a beloved child of God, who formed deep and lasting friendships, who challenged the status quo when
necessary, who rooted himself in scripture and tradition, and who knew that love would conquer hate. That’s the kind of
Church that God wants us to be and that’s the kind of Church that our world desperately needs.
We’re not alone in this endeavor.
There are myriad people, churches, and organizations that are committed to a similar
kind of vision. As we clarify who we are and what we’re called to be in this time and place, it is imperative that we join
hands with all those who are committed to the way of courageous love. In the end, I believe we will be surprised at how
big God’s tent really is.
ENROLLING FOR BAPTISM
Holy Baptism will be offered on Sunday,
January 11 at the 9:30 a.m. service. If you
or a loved one would like to be baptized,
please contact Father Ken.
The next regular dates for baptism are:
April 4 Saturday evening, at the Easter Vigil
May 24 Sunday, the Feast of Pentecost.
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GIVING THANKS
by Heather Black, Senior Warden
As we come into this season where we pay particular attention to those things for which we
are most grateful, I thought it might be an appropriate time to share with you what has been
happening in our church so that you may heap a little more onto your plate of gratitude…
calorie free!
The four listening sessions we offered over the months of October and November have
concluded. It was a very meaningful and moving exchange of thoughts, feelings and dreams
both of and for our church and should prove helpful when we move into strategic planning
mode in the not too distant future. There was wonderful discourse at all of the meetings and many different topics
were covered. The floor was yours and for the over 50 attendees (some of whom came more than once), we cannot
express our gratitude enough for sharing what was in your hearts and on your minds. A big thank you to Father Ken,
Marcia Liebich and Maryanne Whitcomb who led the charge on this project.
From November 7-9 a group of nine delegates representing St. Thomas Church shared camaraderie and church business in Boise at the Diocesan Convention. In addition to the delegates, Wayne Schmidt took a weekend from seminary
to join us and we were glad to have him there! One of the feelings with which I walked away from this convention was
just how incredibly lucky we are at St. Thomas. There are many other congregations around our Diocese that do not
share the same advantages we do. While we are slowly growing, others are very small or getting smaller. We are
blessed in that we are able to support not only a rector, but a staff as well. At the same time, I am aware of the
strength and faithfulness exhibited in many of the smaller congregations. The face of church and the way we “do”
church in general is changing and in order to remain relevant St. Thomas must keep doing the good work it does both
inside and outside our doors. We were encouraged by the Bishop to take the Episcopal Church out of our structure and
into our community at large. I think at St. Thomas we do that well. Congratulations to you all for your efforts in ministry and outreach and let’s continue the good work.
We have much work on our plate over the coming year and will be looking to you for your time, talents and resources.
Do not be afraid to say “yes” to lending a hand to the good work St. Thomas does. I can say this with confidence as I
said “no” to being on Vestry the first time I was asked. I had to overcome my temptation to say “no” the second time I
was approached to serve on Vestry as it seemed maybe there was a reason I was being asked more than once! I also
had to make that decision about becoming Senior Warden. Yes, giving of yourself CAN be time consuming, but it IS
always enriching, personally, knowing you are doing something to better your community whether it is through serving
on Sunday, supporting the Playhouse or taking Communion to someone at home (or any of the other myriad of ministries we offer). As for me, at this time of approaching Thanksgiving and Advent, I am feeling gratitude for the many
gifts I enjoy which include, but are not limited to my family and friends, good health, the ability to live where I do, and
for my St. Thomas family and the challenges, joy and pride you bring to me! Thanks be to God!
REFLECTIONS ON CHRIST’S NATIVITY
St. Thomas Church and St. Thomas Playhouse will host the beautiful and inspiring
service, “Reflections on Christ’s Nativity” on Sunday, December 7 at 5:30 p.m. in the
sanctuary.
This service is unique in offering poetry readings as well as Holy Scripture which
reflect the warmth, love and spirituality of the season. Selections of poetry include
works by Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, and Billy Collins (Poet Laureate 2001-2003).
Christmas music will be interspersed throughout the service and between meditative
prayers honoring the gift of Jesus.
Immediately afterward, there will be a reception in the narthex with food, wine and
sparkling cider.
3
High Scores and High Hopes in Mirebalais
by Art Dahl and Helen Morgus
September is back-to-school time for the folks at the Haiti Micah Project. Enrollments
in the various private schools must be completed (especially complex when a child is
changing schools); uniforms and shoes must be provided for constantly growing kids;
new kids must be added to the group; updated contact information is needed: health
needs must be addressed. It's a big job, it all happens at once-- and five dedicated volunteers (including Father Joseph's mother and aunt) have to do it all.
This godly work is truly worthwhile — the evidence
bears this out. The Haiti Micah kids are receiving
Marie Therese Charite (Joseph’s mother)
going over enrollments
scores on the State Exams that are higher than those
October 2014
of their peers. Father Joseph thinks this is partly
because of the education they receive and very importantly because of the sense of
well being they feel as part of the Haiti Micah Project.
This year sees a first group of Haiti Micah children graduate from high school.
HMP
has long planned to build a vocational school for these youth when the time came.
Father Joseph with Micah Children
Sophie and Derek Craighead, friends of HaRT teammate Sandra Willingham, made a
October, 2014
pledge that put wheels on the construction, and have
pledged to ensure that the project rolls through the finish line.
In late September, members of HaRT met Sophie and Derek for the first time. We had
a wonderful conversation about what inspired each of us to be involved with HMP. We
thanked them for their generosity and presented them with a piece of Haitian folk art
that Sandra commissioned.
Sophie and Derek, like most of St. Thomas’ HMP sponsors, have never been to Haiti,
and yet they have a huge heart for our neighbors there. As Jesus said to St. Thomas,
“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
In October, Father Joseph traveled to Mirebalais
Sandra Willingham, Sophie & Derek
Craighead, Idaho
and gave the green light to start construction of
September 2014
the vocational school. He met with the construction supervisor, the accountant and the engineer who will all be on hand through the
building process. God willing, this new branch of HMP will be up and bearing fruit
in 2015. As the walls are raised, so will be the hopes of the youth of the Haiti
Micah Project.
Father Joseph with construction team
Haiti, October 2014
Thanks be to God for the dedicated souls in Haiti who work
to give the Micah Children life and hope. And thanks to you,
the St. Thomas family who shares in that work through your
prayers and your financial support.
What you do is changing lives.
Jessicat as a child and now, in 7th grade uniform
4
Stewardship
by Marcia Liebich
This has been an amazing week of “serendipity.” Two trips to Boise gave me time for reading, as
Don was driving.
The first example is a book I finished for my book club, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by
Rachel Joyce. This is not a title I would have chosen in a book store, but I loved it. It reflects
‘Walking the Way.’ Harold, the protagonist, believes he might save the life of a person he is indebted
to in his past by walking 600 miles from the south to the north of England. As long as he walks, she
will live. In the process, he discovers and saves himself.
Then, preparing for Thanksgiving, I read Real Simple Magazine. The article is entitled, “Why Gratitude is Great.” Robert Emmons, a professor of psychology at the University of California (Davis), writes about gratitude,
“It speaks to a need that is deeply entrenched. It is as if we need to give thanks and be
thanked, just as it is important to feel respected and connected socially. From an evolutionary
perspective, feelings of gratitude probably helped bind communities together. When people
appreciate the goodness they have received, they feel compelled to give back. This interdependence allows not only an individual to survive and prosper, but also society as a whole.
It’s easy in these modern times, to forget this, however. We’re too busy or distracted, or we’ve
unwittingly become a tad too self-entitled. We disconnect from others and suffer the consequences,
such as loneliness, anger, or even a less robust immune system.”
I
am very grateful to the members of our congregation who have pledged so generously for the work of St. Thomas and
to my committee: Maryanne Whitcomb, Sara Pettit, Sandra Maier, John Ashton, Heather Black, Nancy Cord and Reuben
Perin. It is too early to report our results as of this writing, but I am confident we will reach our goal.
Serendipity? I think not. Perhaps, it is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Advent Services
November 30 Sunday - 8:00 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.
First Sunday of Advent
Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candles
December 3 Wednesday - 5:30 p.m.
Taizé Service
December 7 Sunday - 8:00 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.
Second Sunday of Advent
Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candles,
St. Nicholas and the Giving Tree.
Sunday - 5:30 p.m.
Reflections on Christ’s Nativity: an Advent
service of lessons, carols and poetry
December 10 Wednesday - 5:30 p.m.
Taizé Service
December 14 Sunday - 8:00 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.
Third Sunday of Advent
Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candles
December 17 Wednesday - 5:30 p.m.
Taizé Service
December 21 Sunday - 8:00 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Lighting of the Advent Wreath Candles
Sunday - 4:00 p.m.
Evensong Service
Christmas Services
December 24 Wednesday - 2:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve Services with Children’s
Nativity
Wednesday - 8:00 & 11:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve Services with Choir
(music begins 30 minutes prior to the service)
December 25 Thursday - Christmas Day
Church office closed
December 28 Sunday - 8:00 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.
The First Sunday after Christmas Day
December 31 New Year’s Eve Day
Church office closes at 1 p.m.
January 1
Thursday - New Year’s Day
Church office closed
January 4
Sunday - 8:00 & 9:30 a.m.
The Second Sunday after Christmas Day
Epiphany Services
January 6
Tuesday - 5:30 p.m.
The Feast of the Epiphany
January 7 Wednesday - 5:30 p.m. Taizé Service
January 10 Saturday - 4:30 p.m.
Après Ski Service begins (ends March 14)
January 11 Sunday - 8:00 & 9:30 a.m.
The First Sunday after the Epiphany.
The season of Epiphany continues through February 17.
5
Youth Ministries
by Sara Gorby
We celebrate all the new families who have started to attend St. Thomas and the steadfast families who continue to
wonder and explore what is possible at St. Thomas! As we share our time together over the Advent Season, it is
amazing to reflect on the last year and the last 10 years as St. Thomas has grown and changed. The challenge this
Advent Season is to reflect on the positive and negative experiences that shape us. How can we be a positive force in
this world on a small and grand scale? Let’s share what we have going at St. Thomas. We are not a private club. All are
welcome, right? Invite your friends and neighbors to share in your experience of St. Thomas.
Youth will be sharing their stories in many different ways over the next several months. We are choosing a FOCUS for
each month. We will connect this theme to our practical and spiritual lives. We spent time in October and November
discussing Leadership and Prayer.
December Focus: Service & Giving
January Focus: Epiphany ~ Goals & Challenges
February Focus: Lent ~ Sacrifice
December
December
December
December
December
December
7
21
21
23
24
28
January 4
January 10
January 10
January 31
February 17
February 18
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Sunday
Sunday
Saturday
Saturday
Saturday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Mark Your Calendar
Youth take lead roles in the service as Greeters, Lectors & Intercessors
Middle School Youth sort and wrap gifts for the Giving Tree
11:00 a.m.
High School Youth Deliver Gifts to Families
2:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Narrator Rehearsal Christmas Eve Services
2:00 & 4:00 p.m.
Eucharist with Music & Nativity Pageant
All youth remain in the service
11:00 a.m.
High School Youth Pilgrimage Meeting
Saturday Après Ski Service begins 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays!
Middle School Lock In (Sleepover) after the service
High School Ice Skate/Sledding at Sun Valley after the service
5:00-7:30 p.m.
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper & Talent Show
12:00 noon
Ash Wednesday Service
5:30 p.m.
Ash Wednesday Service
FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
5:30 p.m.
The festival of Christmas concludes with the Feast of the
Epiphany on Tuesday, January 6 at 5:30 p.m. We will hear the
story of the Magi, sing “We Three Kings,” and reflect on how
the light of Christ illuminates even the darkest places in our
hearts. To symbolize the end of the Christmas season and the
importance of God’s holy light, we invite you to bring a branch
of your Christmas tree to burn in an outdoor fire. If you don’t
have a branch to burn, the church will provide extras.
6
Christmas Eve Nativity Pageant Time to Sign up!
All children and youth are invited to participate in the 2:00 and 4:00
Christmas Eve Services on Wednesday, December 24th. Children will
serve as characters in the Nativity Pageant and youth will serve as
Narrators. This is a wonderful opportunity to retell the story of Jesus
Christ’s birth and celebrate together. Please sign up with Sara Gorby.
There is also a sign up on the bulletin board at the church.
Nativity Pageant rehearsals:
Tuesday, December 23rd 2:00-3:30 for the 2:00 service
Tuesday, December 23rd 4:00-5:30 for the 4:00 service
The Giving Tree: A St. Thomas Tradition
On Sunday, December 7th the Giving Tree will be up with gift tag/ornaments with wishes
for 7 families in our valley who need a little help this Christmas. We have adopted seven
families for Thanksgiving and Christmas. These families have been selected by the
social worker at Hemingway Elementary. We ask families for 2 needs and 1 wish per
person. Then we put the items on tags/ornaments and hang them on a tree in the
Narthex. The idea is, you take the tag and sign it out on the clipboard next to the tag
you took. Then you buy the gift and return it, wrapped or not, with the tag attached.
All gifts are due back by Wednesday, December 17th. Youth will be sorting, wrapping
and delivering on Sunday, December 23rd. Thank you for sharing in this St. Thomas
tradition.
Saturday Services Begin on January 10, 2015
Saturday Après Ski Services will be held from January 10-March 14 at 4:30. All youth will be trained and serve in
different roles during the service (example: Greeters, Lectors, Intercessors, Oblation Bearers and Acolytes). High
School youth will meet for a check in at 3:45-4:15 prior to the Saturday service.
Soul Cakes for All Saints Sunday
Many of you requested the recipe for the Soul Cakes that Middle School youth made for All Saints Sunday coffee hour.
Youth looked at the service for All Hallows Eve and All Saints Service in the Book of Occasion Services. It was so cool
to look at the readings! We talked about an early trick-or-treat tradition in the English Catholic church where children
would beg door to door for Soul Cakes saying, “A soul cake, a soul cake, have mercy on all Christian souls for a soul
cake.” Or “Soul, soul, an apple or two, if you haven’t an apple a pear will do. One for Peter, two for Paul, three for the
Man who made us all.” Each soul cake that was given represented the soul of a beloved family member or friend.
These cakes are delicious and easy!
1 cup butter, two sticks American
3 3/4 cups sifted flour
1 cup fine sugar
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
1 teaspoon allspice
2 eggs
2 teaspoons cider vinegar
4 -6 tablespoons milk
Powdered sugar, to sprinkle on top
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut the butter into the flour with a pastry blender or a large fork. Blend in the sugar, nutmeg,
ginger, cinnamon and allspice; beat eggs, vinegar, and milk together. Mix with the flour mixture until a stiff dough is
formed. Knead thoroughly and roll out 1/4-inch thick. Cut into 3-inch rounds and place on greased baking sheets. Prick
several times with a fork and bake for 20-25 minutes. Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar while still warm.
7
December
1
3
3
3
Matt Gorby
Red Bloedel
Heidi Truax
Carol Stevens
January
3
3
4
5
5
5
Randi Filoon
Jane Beattie
Abigail McPherson
Jack Williams
Margaret Gering
Dick Shelton
February
1
2
3
3
4
4
10
Hap Crusel
Ed Karner
Tyler Ferris
Renee Tatterson
Janet DeBard
Rebecca Waycott
Christine Kraatz
3
4
5
5
6
7
7
Lilia Ward
Addalee Hall
Rochelle Sisilli
Kim Verde
Richard Smooke
Randy Hall
Candy Walton
8
8
11
14
15
16
16
Amanda Alexander
Marshall Pettygrove
Kris Webster
Frank Shrontz
Ed Siegel
Judith Smooke
Josie Bunce
16
18
19
21
21
24
Mary Clare Griffin
Cherice Tatterson
Myrle Bradshaw
Hank Minor
Lindsey Armeen
Grace Daniher
5
6
6
8
8
9
9
9
10
Duncan Morton
Heather Black
Suzanne Buchanan
Mark Baumgardner
Ranney Draper
Mia-faye Jefferson
LaRee Morgan
Cathy Spiller
Deborah Berner
14
14
15
15
15
16
16
18
18
David Sturdevant
Georgia Stewart
Timothy Peters
Josh Pate
Neil Henderson
Michael Cord
Mardi Shepard
Richard Van Duzer
Gene Lombardo
23
23
24
26
26
28
30
31
Steve Malkmus
Bob Rice
Lucy Carter
Flynn Stewart
Samantha Brown
Kohler Wood
Ben Morgan
Laura Morawitz
11
12
13
13
14
15
15
15
17
17
Lisa McElhinny
William Buchanan
Patti Williams
Lauren Cord
Ida Belle Gorby
Billie Smardon
John Ashton
Rebecca Pettygrove
Charles Mercer
Sam Robideaux
18
20
21
21
21
21
22
23
23
23
Wyatt Minor
Terry Palmer
Katherine Dembergh
Phebe Thorne
Brita Gaeddert
Roger Gould
Tim Eagan
Maddie Miller
Sidney Brooks
Paul Hansen
25
26
26
28
28
28
28
Tony Jefferson
Jody Olson
Fred Wagner
Loren Kahle
Betty Kahle
Bob Dittmer
Heather Minor
LABYRINTH
by Judith Smooke
As you can see, the beautiful labyrinth is holding its place in the
entry court at St Thomas. We put a sealer on it each spring to
maintain it and to repair any cracks that might have appeared. At
some point in the future we will need to redo it in a major way.
We will need funds for this but will cross that bridge when we get
to it. In the meantime, it would be a great tribute to Lowie
Graves, who was very involved in the creation of the labyrinth
and the spreading of information, if we would see everyone using
it at some point.
I want to acknowledge Marcia Liebich and Jeanne Pudoff-Oyen,
who were instrumental in the initial fund raising and creation of
the labyrinth. Please use it and if you have any questions about
it, ask one of us. There are brochures about it and its use.
8
MUSIC AT ST. THOMAS
by Joel Bejot
This newsletter’s release marks my first anniversary of employment at St. Thomas. It really has been an incredible
year. Further, when I step back from my continuously long to-do list, I find myself often filled with gratitude: Gratitude
to St. Thomas for bringing my family and me here, and for sustaining us in many ways; gratitude to my family, and to
Jessica’s family, for enabling and encouraging the many processes that led us here; and gratitude to God, for being the
ultimate Author of all.
I pray that this winter and the coming year will be a fruitful one for St. Thomas and for you. I hope we all can carry
gratitude with us wherever God takes us. As always, I’m available to chat about music, faith, volunteering, or anything.
Winter is so much fun at St. Thomas – I hope you can find where you fit.
Ways to get involved in music
Adult Choir
The Adult Choir meets weekly on Tuesdays, 5:00-6:30. We sing beautiful yet accessible
music. We have a wide variety of skill levels in the choir, and all talents are welcome.
Evensong Choir The Evensong Choir meets seasonally on Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30. We lead music for our monthly
services of Choral Evensong, except in the winter. There is no audition, but it is invitationonly. Please speak with me about singing with this group – I’m especially looking for tenors
and basses.
Children’s Choir The Children’s Choir is a wonderful and lively group that meets weekly on Thursdays from
3:30-4:30. Currently we have age 5-grade 5. We sing for church about once a month and
special services. The choir follows a great open-ended church choir curriculum.
Taizé Ensemble If you sing or play an instrument, I am looking to enrich the musical support for this seasonal
service. If you would like to help, please speak with me.
Psalm-Singing
Singing the Psalm is an elegant way to enrich our worship experience. If you would like to
sing the Psalm, please let me know, and I’ll work you into the rotation.
Financial Support Please fulfill your pledge. If you haven’t made a pledge, we will always accept a new one.
We do many things with our budget, and fulfilling your pledge is a great way to help. Also,
the Barry Keller Fund is a way to bring special musicians to our worship services, and it
underwrites our concert series.
Sing!
Whether you sit upstairs, on the chancel, in the pews, in a chair, or anywhere else, lifting your
voice in song is a wonderful way to express your thoughts to God.
Prayer
Join the church throughout the ages as we pray for the church and the world.
Calendar of Events
December 3
5:30 p.m.
December 7
9:30 a.m.
December 21
December 24
4:00 p.m.
January 4
4:00 p.m.
January 6
January 10
5:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
February 17
5:30 p.m.
February 18
1:00 p.m.
Taizé services begin, and continue weekly until Ash Wednesday, with two
weeks off for Christmas.
“Kids Up Front” day. The Children’s Choir will buddy-up with the Adult Choir
again, and the music will have an appropriately fun feel to it.
Choral Evensong on St. Thomas will be offered. Please note the time change.
For the many Christmas Eve services at St. Thomas, please see the Calendar
on page 3.
Delilah Thompson, on break from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester,
NY, will offer an organ recital. Funds raised will benefit her education.
Epiphany worship service. Afterward we’ll head out for dinner. Please join us!
Family Après-ski services begin. Please check out the informal, welcoming
style.
Shrove Tuesday Dinner and Talent Show. It’s never too early to think about
YOUR act!
Ash Wednesday service. Lent begins.
9
GREEN TEAM NEWS
Education being a main component of our work, we offered Hailey’s “Climate Challenge” video report to the congregation and came away with some more ideas for our next summer’s projects. The point-to-point bike rental system that
Hailey has developed may be brought to Ketchum and we plan to investigate sponsoring a bike or a rack at St. Thomas.
More information will come from the city as their plans proceed.
Every winter evening we get lost in the dark parking lot
when looking for our cars. The longer days make us
wonder if we need more light and where to put it. We will
be working with the vestry to purchase and install a solar
pole light to shine down on the darkest corners.
Emmanuel and St. Thomas came together again to clean
up the section of the highway. It’s always a surprise to
see what is found.
BOOK CLUB
ANNUAL COOKIE EXCHANGE
by Gini Baumgardner
On Monday, December 8, at 1:30 p.m. Laurie Ahern
will speak to us about “The Folklore and Traditions
of the Plants We Use at Christmastime,” which will
explore the incorporation of the ancient world’s
holidays and traditions into the coming of Christ and
Christianity. We will plan the books for early 2015.
Bring your suggestions!
February 11, 2015
The annual cookie exchange will also take place
following the meeting. If you would like to participate, please bring 3 1/2 dozen cookies and an extra
container or plate. Everyone is welcome!
For more info call Gini at 622-7936.
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ADULT EDUCATION
by Don Liebich
The fall Adult Education schedule featured an eclectic mix if topics and discussions. In
September we held a three session program examining End of Life Planning. The presentations covered the topics of financial, funeral and healthcare planning. The sessions were
well attended and we are considering making this an annual offering. We would welcome
your input. The session on “A Jewish Perspective on Israel, Covenant and the Land” was
well attended and provided a perspective that was new to many of the attendees. We were
fortunate to have several members of the Wood River Jewish Community attend and provide
their perspective. We are planning several joint programs with WRJC during the winter.
The Advent program for the fall is “Accounts of Jesus’ Birth.”
Modern Christian Christmas observance conflates the
separate and differing narratives of the Gospel writers into one story. We examine how the gospel birth narratives differ
and how these differences relate to the story that each writer is trying to tell.
This is the winter 2015 schedule:
January 4
January 11
January 18
January 25
February 1
February 8
February 15
February 22
March 1
March 8
March 15
March 22
March 29
Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth
Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth
Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth
St. Thomas Annual Meeting
Jewish/Christian Education
Jewish/Christian Education
Jewish/Christian Education
Christian Fasting
Father Ken’s Lenten Series
Father Ken’s Lenten Series
Father Ken’s Lenten Series
Open
Palm Sunday – 4 Accounts of Jesus’ Resurrection
The January session on Reza Aslan’s book “Zealot” will assume that people have read the book or at least the Reader’s
Guide. The book is available at Iconoclast, Chapter One or Amazon. The Reader’s Guide is available on Amazon.
Please contact me at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for future programs or are willing to lead a
program.
HELP WANTED
FA-LA-LA-LA-LA
by Mary Malkmus
Altar Guild
Please put on your calendar:
Monday, December 22 at 9:00 a.m.
“Decorating the church for Christmas”
The Altar Guild is looking for new members. If you
like to work behind the scenes, serve guests at a
clean and tidy table, and share the labor (once every
month and a half), THIS IS THE JOB FOR YOU!
Come and help the elves transform the
sanctuary and entry for the Christmas season.
The pay may not be up to standard, but your reward
will be in heaven.
Those interest please talk to Mary Malkmus (6223949), Fr. Ken, or Judi Fuller in the office.
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ST. THOMAS PLAYHOUSE UPDATES
by Brett Moellenberg
COMPANY B - WINTERIZED
Now in it’s fifth year, Co. B Winterized offers children ages 4-13 a more intimate performance opportunity than it’s much
larger sister program in the summer. With a script written by Sara Gorby, and a fantastic team of instructors, campers
will take a trip through the 90s, featuring fun music by Madonna, Alanis Morresette, and other pre-millennial artists.
Registration is now open! Contact Sara Gorby at 726-5349 ext. 16 for more information.
GIRLFRIEND LUNCHEON
Playhouse’s Girlfriend Luncheon is just around the corner. Save the date for Wednesday, February 11, when, from
11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m., ladies will be wined, dined and entertained. With our signature “hot” waiters and gourmet cuisine,
this fundraising event is not to be missed. The lunch also features a raffle with outstanding prize packages and performances from past Playhouse shows, as well as a preview of the upcoming Children of Eden. For more information or to
buy tickets, call Brett Moellenberg at 726-5349 ext. 13.
PLAYHOUSE TOUR
Bringing joy to thousands of children from the Wood River Valley and neighboring communities, STP’s Children’s Tour is
back! This year’s show is an original musical for children, A Little Bit of Magic, and it deals with the theme of “being
unique.” A free production will be presented at St. Thomas at a date to be determined. The tour will travel to schools and
libraries around the valley beginning in late February and will last two weeks. Playhouse is currently searching for individuals to help underwrite the tour. For those interested in helping to fund this ambitious outreach, please contact Brett
Moellenberg at 726-5349 ext. 13. STP is grateful to the Papoose Club for its generous support every year.
ADVENT OPEN
HOUSE AT
THE DIOCESAN
CENTER
Please join Bishop Brian,
Canon Lucinda, and the staff
of the Diocesan Center for
the Advent Open House on Thursday, December 11th,
from 5-7 p.m. at the Diocesan Center.
Hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served. Please
call the Diocesan Center at 345-4440 if you have any
questions.
Directions from I-84
Take the Broadway exit.
Go north (right) on Broadway.
Take the exit for Federal Way, which is a right-hand
exit off Broadway.
At the light, go left onto Federal Way.
Go through the light at Overland.
Take the first left past Overland (W. Judith Lane).
There is a large sign that says "View Pointe Business
Park/Center". This is where we are located.
When you turn into the complex, we are the building
on the right, bordering Federal Way.
CHANGES AFOOT
Under the steady and competent leadership of our Junior
Warden, Carolyn Wicklund, several projects have been proposed
and some completed.
Newly installed is our automatic front door opener.
This is especially good news for those who are
wheelchair-bound. This easy open system has a
push button both outside and inside the front door.
Yes, you get to push the button, too—but just once!
The vestry has approved the installation of a solar parking lot
light. This double-lamped unit will be mounted atop a 25’ pole
in the middle of our parking lot and should shed ample light
throughout the majority of the parking space. Unfortunately,
with a 10 week delivery estimate, we have missed the opportunity to install it this winter. Watch for it first thing next
summer.
No detail is too small to be overlooked!
In this vein, we are
re-arranging the entry and narthex area to make it more attractive (we hope!) and to relieve front-door traffic congestion.
There are even plans for a more comfortable seating space in
the narthex to accommodate restless children and their parents.
This multi-purpose space is used in many ways, and we are
striving to meet the needs of many groups. Hope you will like
the results!
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COULD YOU BE THE NEXT MEMBER OF VESTRY?
The vestry’s work is to support the mission and ministry of St Thomas Church. Together with Father Ken and the staff,
you share responsibility for the facilities, finances, and health of the parish. The job is challenging, rewarding and transforming as you grow closer to God and to one another. Meetings are normally the third Tuesday of each month, although
that can be reviewed once a new vestry is elected; a vestry retreat is held in the spring. There are also occasional committee assignments. The term is three years. There are three seats open.
Is it your turn to vote at Diocesan Convention?
As a delegate to
diocesan convention you attend the annual convention of the
Episcopal Diocese of Idaho to be held in 2015 on November 6-8
in the Central or Eastern Deanery. There are preparation meetings that are held at both the parish and deanery levels. As a
delegate you forge relationships with delegates from across the
diocese, vote on the diocesan budget and on proposed resolutions and canonical changes, and elect representatives for positions at the deanery, diocesan and national levels. A term is one
year. There are six seats open for delegate and four seats open
for alternate delegate. The Rector, Senior Warden, and Junior
Warden always attend as appointed delegates.
The nominating committee invites you to raise up new leadership for the church, which may be yourself or someone you
know. Vestry members and delegates must be confirmed communicants in good standing * at St. Thomas Church. As a
proposed vestry member, you may be asked to answer a questionnaire that will help us to know you.
11/30-12/21/2014
12/21/2014
12/22/14-1/4/2015
1/5/2015
1/11/2015
1/25/2015
Nominations open. The committee welcomes your suggestions. Forms are available.
Nominations close.
Nominating committee discernment period.
Father Ken and vestry receive nominating committee’s recommendations.
Slates of nominees are announced to parish (3 persons for vestry, 6 persons for delegates to
diocesan convention, 4 persons for alternate delegates to diocesan convention).
Annual Parish Meeting. Nominations may be made from the floor. Elections are held.
PLEASE BRING YOUR SUGGESTIONS TO ANY MEMBER OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
BY DECEMBER 21, 2014.
YOU MAY WRITE YOUR SUGGESTIONS OR CONTACT ONE OF US BY EMAIL OR PHONE. In order to be considered for
vestry, a nominee must consent to be nominated.
CAROLYN WICKLUND – [email protected] or 726-5448
DOUG CLEVEN – [email protected] or 720-8219
SARA PETTIT – [email protected] or 788-4870
MARY MALKMUS – [email protected] or 721-0244
JESSICA BEJOT – [email protected] or 726-5349 ext. 21
*
A confirmed communicant in good standing is one whose baptism and confirmation/reception are recorded at St. Thomas Church, “attends worship regularly, unless for good cause prevented, and works, prays, and give for the spread of the Kingdom of God.” (Constitution and Canons,
2012) Although baptism is essential, the Nominating Committee will consider candidates who are not yet confirmed as long as they express a
willingness to do so at the next opportunity.
The ANNUAL MEETING with business and brunch will be held on Sunday,
January 25, after the 9:30 a.m. service. All members are encouraged to attend.
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Hello, Dolly!
With tremendous support and a dedicated cast & crew, Hello, Dolly!
was a great success at the nexStage Theatre. The production
featured an inter-generational cast and was accompanied by an
orchestra from Wood River High School. Hello, Dolly! was directed
by R.L. Rowsey with musical direction by Dorinda Rendahl and choreography by Sara Gorby. Dolly was played by Karen Nelsen, with
featured roles by Tim Eagan, Sara Gorby, Peter Burke, Annabel
Webster, Sam Brown, Ruby Payette, and Lemuel Reagan.
The Friday performance featured the H. Edward Bilkey Memorial
Scholarship Fund Gala, complete with delicious, New York themed
fare and champagne. The Gala benefits STP’s scholarship fund,
which allows several children an opportunity to attend Playhouse’s
summer programming at no cost.
Playhouse extends a thank you to
the St. Thomas Vestry, Father Ken,
Judi Fuller, STP Staff, Rebecca
Waycott, Heather Black, Paul Hansen and the entire Playhouse Charter Committee and volunteers.
Photos courtesy of Heather Black
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3rd ANNUAL WOMEN’S RETREAT
by Pat Jorgensen
Mark your calendars for:
Saturday, February 21, 2015
9:00 a.m.—3:30 p.m.
Fr. Jesse Vaughan will lead our annual women’s retreat at St. Thomas. The focus
this year will be “Forgiveness.” The cost to register is $15 per person, which
includes coffee, lunch and materials.
You may sign up and pay at the church or online at www.stthomassunvally.org.
Please contact Pat Jorgensen at 726-8302 or [email protected] or the church office for more information.
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st. thomas episcopal church
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Ketchum, Idaho
Permit No. 77
201 Sun Valley Road
PO Box 1070
Sun Valley, ID 83353
Address Service Requested
Bishop
The Right Reverend Brian J. Thom
Rector
The Reverend Kenneth H. Brannon
Vestry Officers
Heather Black, Senior Warden
Carolyn Wicklund, Junior Warden
Doug Cleven, Treasurer
Judi Fuller, Clerk
Vestry Members
Ragna Caron, David Harrison, Page Klune, Wally
Morgus, Sara Pettit, Ann Scales, Mardi Shepard
Administration
Jessica Bejot, Children and Families Ministries Director
Joel Bejot, Organist and Music Director
Judi Fuller, Parish Administrator
Sara Gorby, Youth Director and Playhouse Education Director
Brett Moellenberg, Playhouse Managing Director
Vicki Riedel, Pastoral Care Coordinator
The deadline for the next issue of The Lift is 4 p.m., Tuesday, February 11th.
Please submit information and story ideas to the church office or email to Judi Fuller at [email protected]
Should you have any comments or suggestions that will help us improve our newsletter, we will be pleased to receive them.
Should you wish to discontinue your subscription to The Lift please let us know via email.
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