Abundant Lite

Janet Heller 11-23-08

Witness of 42 Years of Blessings at St. Paul in the Desert. (There is a brief announcement at the beginning of the audio.)

November 26, 2008

The Abundant Lite THANKSGIVING/ADVENT I November 26, 2008 For Sunday November 30th From the Rector Advent is Here Advent begins this Sunday with Mark's admonition that when the Son of Man comes it will be without warning. On Advent II & III we read about John the Baptist who will prepare the way. On Advent IV we read about God's angel inviting Mary to be a partner in salvation. This week the Gospel is intense to say the least. There is no way around it. Mark was looking to some very hard times as preliminary to the coming of the Son of Man. If you can look past the details and the drama, there is a clear message - Stay Awake. Be Alert. I don't see this as a push to the end, I see it as an exhortation to stay in shape. Because there are many things, including the day and the hour of the end, that we cannot know, faithfulness and prudence invite us to prepare for every minute as if it would be the last. In The Fire of Divine Love: Readings from Jean Pierre de Causade, the writer invites us to embrace the "Sacrament of the Present Moment." If we took every opportunity to live each moment in the present, conscious of God's presence, we would have no worries about the end or judgment. We would be people would lived our lives awake and open to God. Join us this Sunday as we joyfully navigate the preparation for Jesus to be in and among us that is Advent. Fr. Andrew If you have a brief story of unexpected blessing, share it with me. Give your name, email, and add your story in the comments section. Featured Scripture Mark 13:24-37 (NRSV) Jesus said to his disciples, "In those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened,and the moon will not give its light,and the stars will be falling from heaven,and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see `the Son of Man coming in clouds' with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. "From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. "But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake-- for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake." Thanksgiving Day Worship November 27 at 10:30 a.m. Tomorrow! We will give thanks to God in worship and song on Thanksgiving Day. You will be out in time to help with one of the meals around the valley or to attend to your own gathering of family and friends. New Director of Programs Associate Rector Adds Title Introducing our new Director of Programs!  Well, sort of...We are very excited to add the title of Director of Programs to Mother Stephanie's job title.  It is actually the recognition of the work she has already been performing for us for some time now and we are excited to celebrate this recognition as a community of faith.  Congratulations Mother Stephanie--keep up the good work! Financial Forums

December 7, 2008
after each service

There will be Financial Forums on Sunday December 7 after each service. Members of the Vestry and Staff will present information about how the current global economic crisis has affected St. Paul in the Desert, what is being done about it, and how you can help.

Upcoming Events Mark Your Calendar November 27 Thanksgiving Service 10:30 a.m. November 28 Office Closed November 30 Outreach Ministries Commissioned December 7 Lesson and Carols 10:30 a.m. Financial Forums after each service December 14 Fr. Andrew & Susan Green Celebrate 20 years of ministry here. Christmas Eve - December 24 Carols 15 min. before each service. Children and Family Service 6 p.m. Midnight Mass (w/incense) 11 p.m. Christmas Day - December 25 10:30 a.m. December 26 Office Closed January 1 - New Years Day Office Closed January 18, 2009 Annual Meeting at 9:15 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at St. Paul's 2:00 p.m. January 25 St. Paul in the Desert 70th Anniversary Celebration

Links Anglican Communion The Episcopal Church Diocese of San Diego Episcopal Community Services Epis. Public Policy Network Global Reconciliation Daily Prayer The Episcopal Cafe Thinking Anglicans Theolog The Painted Prayerbook Register for Shake-Out Secure Giving and Statement Listen to Sermons Changes

Worship Schedule All Services include Holy Communion Commissioning of Outreach Ministries (Well in the Desert, SOS, Desert Blind and Handicapped) Saturday Evening 4:00 p.m. Sunday Morning 8 a.m. Sunday Morning 10:30 a.m. Children Welcome in Worship Godly Play 10:30 a.m. Childcare also available on Sunday Morning Wednesday Evening 6:00 p.m. Quiet Conversational Communion in the Library  With Occasional Cello

Celebration Weekend! Let the Abundant Life Keep Flowing! As a witness to God's Abundant Life for ALL, especially in these difficult economic times, the people of St. Paul in the Desert are invited to fill up the baskets for  Well in the Desert every Sunday! Bring some dry and canned goods with you each Sunday and let's offer them at the table and then send them back out into the world God has given us to serve! You are encouraged to bring your pledge of financial support for the next year and your tangible support of the children, women, and men who are served by the Well in the Desert and S.O.S. . It will be abundant and it will be marvelous! Items needed: rice, beans, canned goods, jams, jellies, soups, pastas, noodles, canned tuna, peanut butter, cereals, hot and cold. socks, toiletries, tee shirts, etc.

20th Anniversary of Ministry at St. Paul's Fr. Andrew and Susan Green Save the Date: Sunday, December 14th. We will be celebrating Father Andrew and Susan's 20th anniversary at St. Paul in the Desert. Fr. Andrew's first service was December 15, 1988. Join us for a special luncheon in the Parish Hall after the 10:30 a.m. service. Tickets are available today. Suggested donation is $5.00.

Christmas Decorators Needed Several Ways to Help Outside Lights Team: Between 11/30 and 12/5 we need to raise the lights. Parish Hall Team: Between 11/30 and 12/6 we need to raise the tree and decorate Hogarth Hall. Church Sanctuary Team: After worship on 12/21, we need to decorate the inside of the church with our wreaths, the large ribbons, and the preparation for poinsettias. Please contact Mike Carson today if you are able to help.

Newsletter Team   The Team is Building! Several responses have been received and will help renew this ministry to lead communication for our parish. This team would publish the Abundant Life Monthly/Quarterly. Contact Fr. Andrew to apply.

SUNDAYS@9:15 Episcopal 101 Adult Education Forum in the lounge in the Parish Hall Brother Michael-Gregory facilitates a teaching series on Episcopal 101. Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church, or perhaps a "cradle Episcopalian" who would like a "brush-up," this interactive course is designed for all who wish to learn more about their faith. The series begins November 30.

Thanks ALAT Wonderful Celebration Sunday Thanks to the Abundant Living Action Team, led by Gene Walker for leading us through our Fall Pledge Campaign. Thanks to the Team members, the witnesses, the Hosts, the administrative volunteers, the staff and clergy. The next month will be devoted to following through and gettting ready for the Time and Talent Campaign.

Thanks! AUGUST - OCTOBER GIFTS The Parish is grateful to all of its regular pledgers for their steadfast generosity. We also acknowledge the special gifts listed below: ALTAR GUILD Mark and Sally Calkins Michael Funke and Rick Roberts Ernest Steen BISHOP'S FUND Suzanne Petersen BUILDING FUND Michael Funke and Rick Roberts DESERT AIDS WALK     Betty Rosine Anonymous Dianne Boger Gale Burghardt Hannah Cahn Elliot Carrion Thomas Clarke R.L. Coburn Roy Cody Allan Coe Carol Cunningham Nathan Ensign Michael Funke and Rick Roberts Stephen Geist Bishop Wendel Gibbs Sarah Green The Rev. Cn. Victoria Hatch George Holliday Bill Jones Ellen Katz Francis Kelly Robert King Oz and Ruth Kraus Linda Krengel The Lamon Family Phyllis Larsen Thomas Lutgen Gerald Lynch Frank Martino Ray and Blanche Mickelson Tim and Judy O'Connell David Olsen The Rev. Stephanie Parker Mel and Beryl Parsons Betty Rosine Sandy Rotstein Anna Secrist Gregory Seller Frank Stahl Diane Stielstra and Donn Fry Bonnie and Fred Stroock Joy and Frank Tappin Bill and Carole Tripp The Rev. Vern and Bonnie Suter Beverly Zwach DISCRETIONARY FUND:    BENEVOLENCE Judy Baumstark    PARISH SPECIAL EXPENSE Judy Baumstark Nick Bonnell John Bret-Harte and Tony Galindo Benjamin Carrillo Emile and Ruth Duvernay Bob Edgerly and Bob Warburton Fred Friedman, Jr. Ronald Hull Bob Johnston Ray and Cheryl Kelley Oz and Ruth Kraus Thomas Lutgen Curtis Ringness Arthur Rivera and Gregory Schroeder Ernest Steen Matthew Wolfe EPISCOPAL COMMUNITY SERVICES Phillip Large and Kevin Keating Chuck Marx Ernest Steen GIFTS Nancy Banks, Blessing of the Animals Sheila Brubaker Jacquelin Gorman, in honor of Patrick Jarvis Ana Pickren MUSIC FUND Carol Cunningham, Music Scholarship Hal Groat and Bernard Rosenstine Chuck Marx BARBARA LUNDBLAD SERMON Michael Carson and Ron Steigerwalt WELL IN THE DESERT Bob Edgerly and Bob Warburton Oz and Ruth Kraus Phillip Large and Kevin Keating   If we have omitted acknowledging your donation, please advise us and the omission will be corrected at the next opportunity.

Mission Statement God has invited us to share the Abundant Life of Jesus Christ, through the Church of St. Paul in the Desert, by serving Christ in others and by gathering to praise and thank God in worship. We are a Welcoming, Empowering, Supportive Community.

St. Paul in the Desert | 125 W El Alameda | Palm Springs | CA | 92262

November 20, 2008

The Abundant Lite November 20, 2008 For Sunday November 23rd From the Rector How are the Eyes of Your Imagination? As we prepare for worship on this weekend of celebration I want to invite you into prayer. The Gospel Reading on the sheep and the goats will be the focus of my sermon, but today I want to reflect on Paul's prayer for the church in Ephesus. I try not to tune in to too much news. There is important news out there, but spending too much time on it tends to make my mind look like the news. I imagine the character in Li'l Abner who always brought his dark cloud with him. Without giving you all the details, I want to assure you that the Christians in Ephesus had some rough times, as did Paul. However, Paul does not dwell on that. In this passage he prays for them, asking God to enlighten the eyes of their hearts so that they could know hope. A single reference I found uses imagination for heart, while most use mind. My prayer is that we who prepare to worship God would have the eyes of our imagination opened so that we could be filled with hope. Perhaps the clouds might not be so thick or dark if we began to imagine a very specific hope. In this reading the hope is focused on God's power working mightily in raising Jesus from death. Our hope is directly connected to the faithfulness of God, who did not allow death to have the last word, but opened a new chapter of life in the resurrection of Jesus. Standing under that mighty power and abundant life, how could our imagination be opened to see a grace-filled trajectory for our hope? I believe that it would be like our resurrection hope, where we believe that Christ has overcome, not avoided death. Our hope would trust God to support us in overcoming what we experience as obstacles. Our joy would come from finding the support of sisters and brothers whose imaginations have been opened to see overcoming as the path to God's abundant life. We affirm this faith and we practice imagining a courageous hope each week. Join us. Fr. Andrew If you have a brief story of unexpected blessing, share it with me. Give your name, email, and add your story in the comments section. Featured Scripture Ephesians 1:15-23 (NRSV) I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. Thanksgiving Day Worship November 27 at 10:30 a.m. We will give thanks to God in worship and song on Thanksgiving Day. You will be out in time to help with one of the meals around the valley or to attend to your own gathering of family and friends. Water is ON! New pumps are working. Until the landscaping is replanted and grows in, this is the view you will see as you enter the parking lot. Valley Plumbing replaced our sewer ejector pump station on Monday and Tuesday. The water was shut off for about 48 hours. For the tech minded, the capacity is about 3x the old system and each of the 2 pumps are 2hp grinder-pumps. Financial Forums

December 7, 2008
after each service

There will be Financial Forums on Sunday December 7 after each service. Members of the Vestry and Staff will present information about how the current global economic crisis has affected St. Paul in the Desert, what is being done about it, and how you can help.

Upcoming Events Mark Your Calendar November 27 Thanksgiving Service 10:30 a.m. November 28 Office Closed November 30 S.O.S. Commissioned December 7 Lesson and Carols 10:30 a.m. Christmas Eve - December 24 Carols 15 min. before each service. Children and Family Service 6 p.m. Midnight Mass (w/incense) 11 p.m. Christmas Day - December 25 10:30 a.m. December 26 Office Closed January 1 - New Years Day Office Closed January 18, 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at St. Paul's 2:00 p.m.

Links Anglican Communion The Episcopal Church Diocese of San Diego Episcopal Community Services Epis. Public Policy Network Global Reconciliation Daily Prayer The Episcopal Cafe Thinking Anglicans Theolog The Painted Prayerbook Register for Shake-Out Secure Giving and Statement Listen to Sermons Changes

Worship Schedule All Services include Holy Communion Celebration Weekend The Feast of Christ the King Commissioning of Choirs Sunday at 10:30 Saturday Evening 4:00 p.m. Sunday Morning 8 a.m. Sunday Morning 10:30 a.m. Children Welcome in Worship Godly Play 10:30 a.m. Childcare also available on Sunday Morning Wednesday Evening 6:00 p.m. Quiet Conversational Communion in the Library  With Occasional Cello

Celebration Weekend! By Faith, With Thanksgiving - We Offer Our Gifts We started theses notices with: Pssst. It was as if the Abundant Living Action Team (ALAT) was a secret. More and more of the ALAT activities have been publicized and no one should be in the dark. This weekend is the big event! It is the Feast of the Reign of Christ. It is the end of the Church year. It is the time when we celebrate everything that we return to God by faith, with thanksgiving. You are encouraged to bring your pledge of financial support for the next year and your tangible support of the children, women, and men who are served by the Well in the Desert and S.O.S. . It will be abundant and it will be marvelous! Items needed: rice, beans, canned goods, jams, jellies, soups, pastas, noodles, canned tuna, peanut butter, cereals, hot and cold. socks, toiletries, tee shirts, etc.

Advent Begins Next Sunday November 30th Advent begins the Sunday on or following St. Andrew's Day (Nov. 30th). You will notice the vestments change from green to blue. One Advent Candle is lit each week as we prepare for Christ's Coming. The liturgy will change as will the music we sing. We will be emphasizing preparation -- for all the ways in which Christ comes to us. We will begin Year B of the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). This year most of our Gospel Readings will come from Mark.

Christmas Decorators Needed Several Ways to Help Outside Lights Team: Between 11/30 and 12/5 we need to raise the lights. Parish Hall Team: Between 11/30 and 12/6 we need to raise the tree and decorate Hogarth Hall. Church Sanctuary Team: After worship on 12/21, we need to decorate the inside of the church with our wreaths, the large ribbons, and the preparation for poinsettias. Please contact Mike Carson today if you are able to help.

Newsletter Team Augmentation Needed  Be on  a Team that Communicates! There are a very talented group of people who have made the Abundant Life a more vital publication for the Parish. Due to a variety of circumstances, they are in need of a leader and other members as they select themes and gather/write delightful articles. This team would publish the Abundant Life Monthly/Quarterly. Contact Fr. Andrew to apply.

SUNDAYS@9:15 Episcopal 101 Adult Education Forum in the lounge in the Parish Hall Brother Michael-Gregory facilitates a teaching series on Episcopal 101. Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church, or perhaps a "cradle Episcopalian" who would like a "brush-up," this interactive course is designed for all who wish to learn more about their faith. The series begins November 30.

Mission Statement God has invited us to share the Abundant Life of Jesus Christ, through the Church of St. Paul in the Desert, by serving Christ in others and by gathering to praise and thank God in worship. We are a Welcoming, Empowering, Supportive Community.

St. Paul in the Desert | 125 W El Alameda | Palm Springs | CA | 92262

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November 13, 2008

The Abundant Lite November 13, 2008 For Sunday November 16th From the Rector Tired of All That Gnashing? The translation used this week does not employ the word gnashing in the final line. It says, "grit their teeth in pain." Whatever word that is used, it is often the only one remembered when reading difficult passages like this. If we concentrate on the gnashing, I think we miss the point about a characteristic of God's abundance. God's abundance is risk-intensive. The landowner turns over his holdings to his servants and goes away, we know not where. Perhaps to attend to other business. The servants are apportioned resources according to their ability and evidently given no instructions. At the heart of the matter, two servants believe their vocation is to improve their master's holdings and put their resources to work. Evidently they are successful and they are invited to a mutuality of mission and accomplishment. They are invited to put other and greater resources to work and they are invited to be partners in the master's happiness. The third servant operates out of a scarcity model. It assumes the bad will and harmful intentions of the master and seeks not mission but maintenance. His portfolio becomes, not a resource to risk for the master's mission, but a hoard to protect his position. If we were unclear before reading this parable, we should be very clear now. The mission that Jesus preached put everything at risk to welcome an abundant return. The risk of persecution, loss of religious, civic, and family status was all in the service of a wider communion with God, a new and just citizenship in the community of believers, and a birthright that linked absolutely every person with God's life-giving presence. Take a risk and join us in worship this weekend for minimal gnashing, maximum welcome and abundant love.. Fr. Andrew If you have a brief story of unexpected blessing, share it with me. Give your name, email, and add your story in the comments section. Featured Scripture Matthew 25:14-30 (Contemporary English Version) The kingdom is also like what happened when a man went away and put his three servants in charge of all he owned. The man knew what each servant could do. So he handed five thousand coins to the first servant, two thousand to the second, and one thousand to the third. Then he left the country. As soon as the man had gone, the servant with the five thousand coins used them to earn five thousand more. The servant who had two thousand coins did the same with his money and earned two thousand more. But the servant with one thousand coins dug a hole and hid his master's money in the ground. Some time later the master of those servants returned. He called them in and asked what they had done with his money. The servant who had been given five thousand coins brought them in with the five thousand that he had earned. He said, "Sir, you gave me five thousand coins, and I have earned five thousand more." "Wonderful!" his master replied. "You are a good and faithful servant. I left you in charge of only a little, but now I will put you in charge of much more. Come and share in my happiness!" Next, the servant who had been given two thousand coins came in and said, "Sir, you gave me two thousand coins, and I have earned two thousand more." "Wonderful!" his master replied. "You are a good and faithful servant. I left you in charge of only a little, but now I will put you in charge of much more. Come and share in my happiness!" The servant who had been given one thousand coins then came in and said, "Sir, I know that you are hard to get along with. You harvest what you don't plant and gather crops where you haven't scattered seed. I was frightened and went out and hid your money in the ground. Here is every single coin!" The master of the servant told him, "You are lazy and good-for-nothing! You know that I harvest what I don't plant and gather crops where I haven't scattered seed. You could have at least put my money in the bank, so that I could have earned interest on it." Then the master said, "Now your money will be taken away and given to the servant with ten thousand coins! Everyone who has something will be given more, and they will have more than enough. But everything will be taken from those who don't have anything. You are a worthless servant, and you will be thrown out into the dark where people will cry and grit their teeth in pain." The Rev. Barry Woods Funeral November 15 at 1 p.m. The Rev. Barry Woods  will be buried at St. Paul in the Desert on Saturday, November 15, at 1:00 p.m.. Water Will Be Off At Least 11/17-18/08 Maybe until the 20th In order to replace the sewer ejection pumps, the water will be off in the Church, Parish Hall, and Offices beginning Monday, 11/17. These pumps take our waste water that is below grade and transfer it to the city sewer. There will be no bathrooms or sinks operating during the replacement. There will be a portable toilet on site for this period. Upcoming Events Mark Your Calendar November 15 Diocesan Council Meets Here 9-12 in the Parish Hall Fr. Barry Woods Funeral 1:00 p.m. November 15-16 Commissioning of Acolytes November 22-23 Celebration Weekend Choirs Commissioned November 27 Thanksgiving Service 10:30 a.m. November 30 S.O.S. Commissioned January 18, 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at St. Paul's 2:00 p.m. Links Anglican Communion The Episcopal Church Diocese of San Diego Episcopal Community Services Epis. Public Policy Network Global Reconciliation Daily Prayer The Episcopal Cafe Thinking Anglicans Theolog The Painted Prayerbook Register for Shake-Out Secure Giving and Statement Listen to Sermons Changes   Worship Schedule All Services include Holy Communion Commissioning of Acolytes at all services. Saturday Evening 4:00 p.m. Sunday Morning 8 a.m. Sunday Morning 10:30 a.m. Children Welcome in Worship Godly Play 10:30 a.m. Childcare also available on Sunday Morning Wednesday Evening 6:00 p.m. Quiet Conversational Communion in the Library  With Occasional Cello Celebrate Thanks!

Ordinary People
Extraordinary Grace

We give thanks to the following parishioners
who by faith, with thanksgiving, offer their gifts of hospitality and witness to this year's season of celebration.

 

Witnesses: Cheryl Kelley, Jan Heller, Roger Allen, and Chuck Marx

Hosts: Mike Carson and Ron Stiegerwalt; Vern and Bonnie Suter; Craig Ewing; Bonnie and Fred Stroock; Doug Stenzel and Michael Galanis; Roger Allen and Taylor Baird; Mari Covell and Dorothy Kelly, Ray and Cheryl Kelley, and Joanne Penner.

The Rev. David Norgard Guest Preacher November 16th, 8 & 10:30 a.m. This past year, David has supported the work of the Abundant Living Action Team here at St. Paul in the Desert. He operates an independent management consulting practice named OD180. David has preached here before and it is always good to have him with us.

Christmas Decorators Needed Several Ways to Help Outside Lights Team: Between 11/30 and 12/5 we need to raise the lights. Parish Hall Team: Between 11/30 and 12/6 we need to raise the tree and decorate Hogarth Hall. Church Sanctuary Team: After worship on 12/21, we need to decorate the inside of the church with our wreaths, the large ribbons, and the preparation for poinsettias. Please contact Mike Carson today if you are able to help.

Newsletter Editor Needed  Lead a Team that Communicates! There are a very talented group of people who have made the Abundant Life a more vital publication for the Parish. Due to a variety of circumstances, they are in need of a leader to organize their efforts and lead them in selecting themes and gathering more delightful articles. This team would publish the Abundant Life Monthly/Quarterly. This person needs to have experience working with a group, good writing skills, and basic word processing ability. Contact Fr. Andrew to apply.

SUNDAYS@9:15 Episcopal 101 Adult Education Forum in the lounge in the Parish Hall Brother Michael-Gregory facilitates a teaching series on Episcopal 101. Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church, or perhaps a "cradle Episcopalian" who would like a "brush-up," this interactive course is designed for all who wish to learn more about their faith. The series begins November 30.

Choirs Commissioned November 23, 2008 Our Adult and Children Choirs are wonderful assets in leading the worshiping community in the praise of God. Join us on Celebration Sunday as we commission these praiseful ministries. S.O.S Commissioned November 29-30, 2008 Services and Overnight Shelter is a ministry to the homeless of our community. Every Friday we host between 6 and 25 guests in our Parish Hall to dinner and a safe evening's lodging.

Mission Statement God has invited us to share the Abundant Life of Jesus Christ, through the Church of St. Paul in the Desert, by serving Christ in others and by gathering to praise and thank God in worship. We are a Welcoming, Empowering, Supportive Community.

St. Paul in the Desert | 125 W El Alameda | Palm Springs | CA | 92262

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Abundant Living Action Team - Special Bulletin

A. L. A. T. We are excited to tell you more about this wonderful ministry. It is the goal of the Abundant Living Action Team to celebrate and acknowledge the amazing gift of God at work in our very midst.   Several years ago your clergy and vestry recognized that "old fashioned" stewardship methods failed to capture the fullness of the vitality and joy we at St. Paul's bring to our worship and common life.  It was routine for the whole staff and congregation to groan when we contemplated the fall pledge campaign.  The Pledge Campaign represented that "begging season" in which we are all reminded that it is our duty to financially support the work of the Church!    What would it mean, we wondered, to throw out that old language of obligation and instead begin to truly celebrate and embrace the Abundant Life that was already before us?  We wanted to rescue the word "Stewardship" from the tarnished reputation it has received through no fault of its own and return it to the fullness of purpose that God intends.   True stewardship brings purpose to the totality of our lives with God.  Stewardship encompasses celebrating the gifts of Creation, rejoicing in offering our time and talent to God's purposes, and the returning to God a portion of our livelihoods in joyful thanksgiving for all that God has done for us.  And even more than that, stewardship stands outside of time we can measure on a calendar, it is the full participation in opening ourselves to the extraordinary presence of God in our everyday, ordinary lives.   Breaking News on the Abundant Living Action Team Gene Walker, Chair Mother Stephanie Parker, Clergy Coordinator God has invited us to share the Abundant Life of Jesus Christ through the Church of St. Paul in the Desert by serving Christ in others and gathering to praise and thank God in worship.  We are a welcoming, empowering, supportive community. I came that they might have life, and have it more abundantly. John 10:10     We at the Church of St. Paul in the Desert are abundantly blessed by God's gifts and grace.  This does not mean that our lives are free of pain or hardship, but that we understand that God in Christ is able to bring grace and abundance to the totality of our lives.  This is the Abundant Life of Christ and this is what the Abundant Living Action Team (ALAT) accomplishes through its various ministry teams.    This kind of participation in God's amazing world cannot be held to a few mere weeks in the fall!  We rejoice and offer thanksgiving 365 days a year.  In the fall we focus on joyful financial giving through the ministry of the Pledge Campaign Group.  In the spring we celebrate the abundance of time and talent that we are blessed to offer to God's mission through the Time and Talent Group, and throughout the year we look for opportunities to rejoice in God's created order.   We do this by looking at ways we can protect the environment and care for the creatures God has given into our care.  To date we have moved to stop using Styrofoam cups and we supported the work of Animal Samaritans, as well as focusing on the Stewardship of Creation in our Vacation Bible School.  We continue to look for new ways to rejoice in and protect this beautiful world that God has made.   You Too Are An ALAT Member! We are all part of celebrating the Abundant Life of Christ at St. Paul in the Desert.  It is you, the rest of our parish family that completes the ALAT circle.  It is your participation and celebration in the various ALAT events that brings THE ABUNDANT LIFE to fullness.  We give thanks for the exciting energy and life each member of this Parish contributes to our Mission.  We hope you find joy and delight in being a part of this ministry as we celebrate the blessings of God in our midst!  We also hope you will enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie that we share as we participate in our common mission.  Welcome to the team! Celebration Weekend November 22-23, 2008 Bring Your Gifts and Offer Them By Faith, With Thanksgiving All members are invited to return your pledge of financial support, and you are invited to bring offerings of clothing, food and sundries for Well in the Desert and SOS, so that we may witness to God's love and abundant life for all of God's people. If you have not received a pledge card, some will be available in the pews. There will be a basket for pledge cards and numerous baskets for offerings for Well and SOS. Our Sr. Warden, Jan Heller, will share her experience of God's Abundant Love in 42 years at St. Paul in the Desert. Here are suggestions for the gifts for the Well in the Desert: rice, beans, canned goods, jams, jellies, soups, pastas, noodles, canned tuna, peanut butter, cereals (hot and cold), socks, toiletries, etc. For S.O.S.: socks, tee shirts and toiletries.   The Abundant Life A Statement of Comprehensive Stewardship Full participation in the Abundant Life of Jesus Christ is grateful and responsible use of God's universe in the light of God's purpose as revealed in Jesus Christ.  The people of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, commit themselves to conscious, purposeful decisions. Stewardship is lived out in: living and telling the Good News; sharing with God in seeking justice, peace, and the integrity of creation in an interdependent universe; wisely employing God-given human resources, abilities, and relationships; sharing the material resources we hold and giving them in service, justice, and compassion; providing for future generations; sharing in the life, worship, and responsible stewardship of the Church and of its mission. Both for the individual and for the community, stewardship is a joyful act for the sake of God's world.  Adapted from the Ecumenical Stewardship Center.

St. Paul in the Desert | 125 W El Alameda | Palm Springs | CA | 92262

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November 6, 2008

Email Confirmation

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Subject: News from St. Paul in the Desert The Abundant Lite November 6, 2008 For Sunday November 9th From the Rector Is Hope THAT New? As the political season winds down, I am reflecting on a word that appeared in many contexts and in many campaigns over the last year: hope. It is in the nature of candidates to try and inspire hope. We have experienced ballot propositions that inspire or impair, and not just a single proposition. One reality for the political process at all levels is that not everyone experiences hope at the same time and in the same way. When I was running for office, I was hopeful that I could make a difference. On election night I saw that my joy in being selected to serve was experience as sadness and a loss of hope for a friend who was not selected. The New Testament Lesson we are reading this week serves as an inspiration for deep hope and as a corrective for the trials we face on the journey hope leads. The new Christians in Thessalonika were concerned that their hope of being loved by God eternally was compromised by death. I think this qualifies a a core hope. Does God's embrace extend beyond our mortal life? Like today, Christians then came from all types of people. However, there was probably a significant majority who were poor or lacked status. They lacked some of the tools that stand for hope in the world. The promise of God's love for them in Jesus Christ went beyond a hope of personal achievement or improving their families status. In fact, being a Christian usually hindered the ladder of worldly success. Let's face it, those Christians hang out with all the wrong people. Christian hope resides in Jesus promise that he will be with us, that there will be a place in God's presence for us, and that we will be part of God's mission of reconciliation. Paul assures his friends that all of them will be with Christ, neither first, last, nor left behind. Instead all would be caught up with Christ together, both the living, the departed, and those to come. Our deepest hope rests in being rooted in the heart of God. All our other real hopes grow from this important promise. Join us in worship this weekend as we joyfully practice hope. Fr. Andrew If you have a brief story of unexpected blessing, share it with me. Give your name, email, and add your story in the comments section. Featured Scripture 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who have died, so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have died. For this we declare to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will by no means precede those who have died. For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel's call and with the sound of God's trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up in the clouds together with them to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words. Joan Henry Twohey Funeral Friday, November 7 at 4:00 p.m. Joan Twohey was a long time member of St. Paul's. She had been visiting the desert with her family since the 1920's. She became a full-time resident when she moved from Michigan in retirement. She served as a part of the Altar Guild. Joan died on July 10, 2008. There will be a reception following the service at Joan's home in the Tennis Club Neighborhood. The Rev. Barry Woods Died October 27th Funeral November 15 at 1 p.m. The Rev. Barry Woods died at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage. His beloved wife, Bonnie, was with him in the hours leading to his death. He had been suffering from COPD and had entered the hospital about 2 weeks ago with a collapsed lung. Despite many efforts, his condition did not improve. Barry was a valuable part of our clergy team at St. Paul in the Desert and was loved as a part of our congregation. He will be buried at St. Paul in the Desert on Saturday, November 15, at 1:00 p.m.. Cards and notes may be sent to the church. _____________________ Rest eternal grant to them O Lord, and may light perpetual shine upon them. Our Team WALKed Strong! 21st Desert AIDS Walk A wonderful success   Thanks to everyone who walked, who raised money, and who invited their friends to walk. The St. Paul in the Desert Team raised about $5000.00  to support the work of the Desert AIDS Project. We had nearly 50 people walking from our Parish. Upcoming Events Mark Your Calendar November 7 Joan Twohey Funeral 4 p.m. November 8-9 United Thank Offering Continues November 9 Spirit of the Desert (ECS) November 15 Fr. Barry Woods Funeral 1:00 p.m. November 15-16 Commissioning of Acolytes January 18, 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at St. Paul's 2:00 p.m. Links Anglican Communion The Episcopal Church Diocese of San Diego Episcopal Community Services Epis. Public Policy Network Global Reconciliation Daily Prayer The Episcopal Cafe Thinking Anglicans Theolog The Painted Prayerbook Register for Shake-Out Secure Giving and Statement Listen to Sermons Changes   SUNDAYS@9:15 Episcopal 101 Adult Education Forum in the lounge in the Parish Hall Brother Michael-Gregory facilitates a teaching series on Episcopal 101. Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church, or perhaps a "cradle Episcopalian" who would like a "brush-up," this interactive course is designed for all who wish to learn more about their faith. The series begins November 30.   Worship Schedule All Services include Holy Communion Commissioning of Ushers at all services. Saturday Evening 4:00 p.m. Sunday Morning 8 a.m. Sunday Morning 10:30 a.m. Children Welcome in Worship Godly Play 10:30 a.m. Childcare also available on Sunday Morning Wednesday Evening 6:00 p.m. Quiet Conversational Communion in the Library  With Occasional Cello TREASURE FOUND IN THE DESERT! ALAT REPORTS EXCITING FIND Details are flooding in of a feast of hospitality and sharing breaking out across the Coachella Valley. The Abundant Living Action Team reports being utterly blessed by a treasure trove of parishioners who are opening their homes to our parish family for House Gatherings throughout the Valley.  Added to this treasure is the gift of sharing and witness through those who gather to share their stories of God in our midst at St. Paul in the Desert.   When asked if there was really enough abundance to be shared by all, the team replied that there was more treasure than we could have ever asked or imagined.  They invite all to come and claim their portion.  RSVP now to redeem the riches of Christ's Abundant Life. If you have not received your invitation, call the Parish Office at 320-7488 x221. Today. Look for a special ALAT Communication Friday, 11/7. United Thank Offering Fall In Gathering Expand the Circle of Thankful People On November 8th and 9th, we will continue to gather grateful gifts for the United Thank Offering of the Episcopal Church Women. The United Thank Offering is a program of The Episcopal Church for the mission of the whole Church, founded by and administered by women since 1889. The United Thank Offering Committee is a spiritual and financial partner in the mission work of The Episcopal Church, through every person in every pew. UTO is entrusted to promote thank offerings, to receive the offerings, and to distribute the United Thank Offering monies through grants. If you would like to read about a recent UTO Grant and its impact on real people. Click Here. If you have a Blue Box, bring it. You may place your offering in a Blue Envelope, or simply write UTO in the memo space. Spirit of the Desert   November 9, 2008 -- 12 Noon Each year Episcopal Community Services honors outstanding citizens who have contributed to improving the quality of life for the most vulnerable and needy in the Coachella Valley. This year's award is dedicated to Betty and Gerald Ford in recognition of their tireless work to improve the living conditions of troubled people in the area and to support the Episcopal Church. These efforts have endeared the Ford family to the people in the Coachella Valley and impacted the lives of so many families and individuals. Spirit of the Desert will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2008 at Thunderbird Country Club beginning at 12:00pm. The Club is located at 70-612 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270. Valet parking is provided. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Alyssa at (619) 228-2800 x187 or email rsvp@ecscalifornia.org. The Rev. David Norgard Guest Preacher November 16th, 8 & 10:30 a.m. Over the course of his ministry, David has worked with a variety of church-related groups, including a soup kitchen, a social service agency, and a gay community outreach ministry. This past year, he supported the work of the Abundant Living Action Team here at St. Paul in the Desert. Presently, he operates an independent management consulting practice named OD180. David has preached here before and it is always good to have him with us. Acolytes Commissioned November 15-16, 2008 Acolytes serve in the sanctuary during worship. They light candles, carry the Cross, banners, torches. They serve the Assisting Priest in preparing for Holy Communion. This is an important ministry. Join us as we commission the Acolytes at all services, November 8-9. You Might Have Noticed Did you get a Card? Some members of the Caring Ministry are pictured at a recent meeting. They are the ministry that send out cards, make phone calls, visit shut-ins and practice caring. New Coffee Hour Sign-Ups This is the New and Improved COFFEE HOUR SIGN-UP! You are invited to sign-up for hosting at the 8 or the 10:30 or both! In addition the Parish Party Czar has offered a set of expectations and hints for a successful Coffee Hour Hosting. It should be fun and fairly simple. You or your group or clique or constituency or posse can sign-up this Sunday. From the Sublime to the Interesting, to the Very Mundane Our sewer system is having trouble. The pipes drain to a sump and we pump it to the sewer. One pump is broken, as are the automatic switches. If you see someone in the middle of this planting, don't run away, they are pumping the sump. Our Jr. Warden is in the final stages of a plan to replace the pumps. When it happens, it will require that no water be used in sink or toilet for about 3 days. He will try to make sure this does not happen on a Sunday. !!!Project to begin November 17th!!! Mission Statement God has invited us to share the Abundant Life of Jesus Christ, through the Church of St. Paul in the Desert, by serving Christ in others and by gathering to praise and thank God in worship. We are a Welcoming, Empowering, Supportive Community. St. Paul in the Desert | 125 W El Alameda | Palm Springs | CA | 92262