Sunday Lectionary Readings
September 13
Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost,
Year B
Proverbs 1:20-33
Psalm 116:1-8
James 3:1-12
Mark 8:27-38
O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
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Clergy Thoughts
By the Rev. Rich Webster
Light as a Feather
In the 1994 Academy award winning film, Forrest Gump, the story begins, and ends, with a feather. There is no dialogue, no action, only a feather-floating and twirling with the wind and following a course as wild and unpredictable as the life of man for whom the film is named. Then, the feather lands at the feet of Forrest Gump, who picks it up and places it inside his copy of the famous children's book Curious George. For the viewer, the feather then becomes an afterthought as Gump recounts a lifetime of adventures, adventures that include meeting the president and inventing rock and roll. There are so many cinematic tricks and pop culture references that the film becomes a scrapbook of modern American history, but the feather does reappear in the last scene of the film, to remind us of a bigger story...
As Forrest Gump waits at the bus stop with his son on the first day of school, this same feather is blown out of the same book, and begins its lilting journey anew, soaring and spinning in the wind, reminding us that, in spite of time and twists and turns and all appearances to the contrary, there is a plan, a promise after all.
I thought of this feather during worship last Wednesday night, a service that promises to become an important service of worship at Saint Luke's. It is a simple Eucharist in our chapel, and features the music of our own Shaun Pezant, one of the most faithful, creative and talented men I've ever had the pleasure to work with.
Holy Eucharist begins at 7:30pm, but all are invited to sit in the darkened chapel for music at 7:15. And it was here last week, sitting in silence and watching candlelight flicker among the arches that I heard Shaun playing the theme song from Forrest Gump. I thought of the feather in my own story, twisting and turning in the most unpredictable ways. I thought of the people in my journey, mentors and heroes who have taught me and supported me and made me into the person I am today. I thought of God, and of his Son Jesus, and of the Holy Spirit who blows and inspires and sets me on the most wondrous of adventures.
Music will inspire all sorts of associations, and these were my thoughts as Shaun played the music behind the feather. Just then, this song gently segued into Amazing Grace, reminding me that we are never left to blow in the wind at random or alone, but guided and protected by God's gentle breeze of grace. There is a plan, a promise after all.
Join us on Wednesdays and see where the Spirit takes us!
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Sunday School
Begins This Sunday
September 13!
We have classes for ALL ages...
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Children's Sunday School
Begins September 13!
9:15 am to 10:15 am
Nursery Care Begins at 7:45 am
Newborn to 12-months Room 130A
12 to 24-months Room 130B
24 to 36-months Room 133
Nursery for Three's Room 125
9:15 am to 10:15 am
Children, 3K, 4K, 5K - Level I Atrium
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Room 220
To be in the Atrium, your child must have turned three by September 1, 2009.
The theme for this level is the Good Shepherd who loves his sheep and gives everything for them. The child comes to discover who the Shepherd is and who the sheep are. The enjoyment of the gift of God's own self to the child is the foundation of further religious insight and moral development. This level could be characterized as a "time of joy and wonder" in the lives of the children.
First, Second, Fourth, and Fifth Grades
Rotation Sunday School
Rotation Sunday School is for first, second, fourth, and fifth grade students. Each year there are six rotations, each consisting of four or five weeks on a given Biblical theme. The children go to a different workshop each Sunday. These workshops present multi-learning-style lessons from God's Word. They include:
Thou Art! Art, Room 111
B.C. to P.C. Computers, Room 211
HolyWood Movies, Room 216
Parable Place Drama, Room 227
Each Sunday, please check the totem or the board, located on the bulletin board outside the Commons, for room assignments.
Third-Grade
Bible 101 - Room 218
At the beginning of the Sunday School year, each third-grader is presented a Bible from the church. The entire Sunday School year is devoted to teaching basic Bible stories and concepts to create a firm foundation for each child. We strongly encourage students to be present every Sunday morning as each lesson builds on the one before.
Sixth-Grade
Walking the Bible - Room 214
This class is a deeper study of the Bible. On Wednesday nights, sixth-graders are invited to join our fourth and fifth-graders for Bible Games with Mrs. Emily in Room 214. This class is full of fun and games and lots of candy!
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Youth Sunday School
9:15 am to 10:15 am
Begins September 13!
Junior High - 7th and 8th Grade
Lighthouse (3822 South Cove Drive)
The goal of Junior High Sunday school is to look at scripture and its meaning in our lives and to become more involved in the church community. The youth will participate in group discussions, activities, and service in the community. This class meets upstairs in the Lighthouse. Teachers: Susan Logan, Virginia Smith, Rusty Boylan, and Helen Catherine Smith.
Ninth-Grade Confirmation
Room 224
This Confirmation class is required for youth to be confirmed at Saint Luke's and become members of the Episcopal Church. Throughout the year the students will cover topics on Prayer, the Trinity, the Bible, the Book of Common Prayer, Church History, and what it means to live a Christian Life. The confirmation class also includes events and service projects throughout the year. In January the class will have their own retreat. Confirmation Sunday will be on May 2, 2010. Teachers: Leslie Naff and Jeanie Cobb.
Senior High - 10th-12th Grades
Lighthouse (3822 South Cove Drive)
The goal of Senior High Sunday school is for the youth to further develop a personal faith and become aware of one's own Christian journey and recognize the gifts they have to share through reading scripture. Senior High Sunday School meets in the main room of the Lighthouse. Teachers: Ellen Webster, Matt Sheffield, and Lindsay Joe.
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Adult Sunday School
Begins September 13 9:15 to 10:15
For our first three Sundays, all adults will meet in the Nave for a class with the Rector.
Meeting Jesus: Our First Stop on the Continuum of Discipleship
September 13, 20, and 27
We will kick off our Adult fall Sunday School schedule with a three-part series in the nave titled, "Meeting Jesus." In this class the Rector will re-introduce the "Continuum of Discipleship" as a teaching method and road map for Saint Luke's. We'll begin to explore that continuum in depth by focusing of the first leg of the journey and the implications for meeting Jesus in our own lives. The Nave, The Rev. Rich Webster.
Newcomers Class:
October 4 -December 6, 2009
This ongoing class will be taught in a repeating, three part cycle, and will be available to anyone wishing to learn more about Saint Luke's and our various ministries. Classes will focus on the Episcopal Church, Saint Luke's, and finding a ministry. The goal is to help to assimilate and educate newcomers, casual visitors, and those considering a deeper commitment, such as confirmation. The Tilson Room, The Rev. Rich Webster
Studying Our Sunday Scriptures
October 4 -December 6, 2009
Using a lecture/discussion format, Father Steve relates Sunday readings to their place in the themes of the season of the church year and to everyday Christian living. Discover how the Scriptures of the day reflect on each other and explore their historical context. Room 225, The Rev. Stephen DeGweck.
Faithful Parents Raising Faithful Children, II,
October 4 -December 6, 2009
With help from psychologists, Barbara Johnson and Dale Wisely, you will find help and inspiration to strengthen your parenting skills through lectures: Childhood Temperament and Goodness of Fit; Parenting Myths; Parenting Styles and Methods of Discipline; Sibling Issues; Ways to Resolve Conflict; Teen Years-Living with Paradox; Cell Phone Use; Driving Contracts; Developing a Relationship with Your Teen. Experienced parents will share their joys and sorrows with their children and describe how they taught their children about faith. We plan to publish a schedule, so that participants will know when the topic is relevant to their parenting situation. Room 232, The Rev. Christopher Girata.
People on a Journey, Meeting Jesus in Prayer,
October 4 -December 6, 2009
Guests will share their stories of experiencing Jesus' presence in prayer. Expect to learn new prayer methods and find inspiration to strengthen your prayer discipline. Room 212, Tina Darnall, Tina Tynes, Rob Waudby, and The Rev. Rebecca DeBow
Living the Questions
October 4 -December 6, 2009
Living the Questions is a video/ discussion series intended as an alternative to studies that supply all the answers; instead it sees faith as a journey. Facilitators, with the help of videos and a directed discussion, will create an environment where participants explore faith as a personal journey relevant to lives in the 21st century. As course materials suggest "it hopes to expose people to the ideas and concepts that have been taught and discussed for generations in our seminaries, but don't usually get discussed in churches." Living the Questions is for those yearning for something more than the shallow platitudes that often pass for theology. It's for those who want a class that encourages questions and dialogue. The class explores the best of modern theological thought in an open, accepting environment that invites people to share their thoughts and experiences safely. Each film segment is self-contained and deals with an important aspect of our faith journey. Theologians such as Borg, Brueggeman, Crossan, Fox, Kung, and others, offer their thoughts on a range of topics from reading the Bible, the life of Jesus, Paul's message, the Rapture, social justice, the reality of evil, prayer, the meaning of kingdom, etc. Founders Room, The Rev. Mark LaGory, Victor Darley-Usmar, Chris Heckemeyer, and Sandra Watson
Inquirers' Class
Begins November 1
Are you interested in being confirmed or received as an Episcopalian? Taught by the Rev. Richmond Webster.
See meeting dates below:
Sundays, November 1 and 8, 9:30 am to 10:15 am; Chapel Wednesdays, November 4 and 11, 6:30 pm; Room 232 Sunday, November 15, Instructed Eucharist and Dinner 6:00 pm. Claypool Commons Confirmation Sunday is December 6.To register, contact Jeanna Speegle (802-6218 or jspeegle@saint-lukes.com).
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EYC Kick-Off Party!
This Sunday, September 13th
All youth (7th-12th grades) are invited to the Watford's Lake House for an afternoon of fun, swimming, boating, and games! Meet in the church parking lot around 1:00 pm, and we will return by 5:00 pm. Don't miss out on all the fun!
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Our Own Chris Girata
Panelist for Alabama Faith Council
The Rev. Christopher Girata will be a guest panelist at the next Alabama Faith Council (AFC) event. The AFC will host this special event on September 13th at 7:00 pm. Titled "Forgiveness and Reconciliation," this event will feature a panel of religious leaders from around the state, discussing current inter-faith issues and will be held at Masjidul Qur'an. If you would like to attend or want more information, please contact Melinda Powers (879-0823) or the Rev. Christopher Girata (cgirata@saint-lukes.com or 802-6204).
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Senior Adults
Visit The Southern Environmental Center
On Tuesday, September 22 (first day of autumn), we will visit Birmingham Southern College's Southern Environmental Center. Learn what our city doing to "go green" through film and lecture, and take a walking tour of the EcoScape.
If you want to go, please contact Jeanna (jspeegle@saint-lukes.com or 802-6218) by Thursday, September 18. Park in the back of the church to load our vans at 8:30 am. Our tour is approximately 1 ½ hours. We will return to the church for an early lunch and be finished around noon! The cost of $5.00 includes a donation to the Environmental Center and lunch.
To learn more about the Southern Environmental Center, go to www.bsc.edu and click on Southern Environmental Center.
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All Women are Invited to
11:30 am Program in the Nave
Luncheon will follow in Graham Hall
(childcare available)
All women of the church are invited to the first fall meeting of ECW. We will begin promptly at 11:30 am in the nave, where we will be treated to a demonstration by two of Saint Luke's most experienced flower arrangers! Come hear about the Altar Guild's flower ministry, and see how the beautiful altar arrangements are created. Following the demonstration, we will gather in
Graham Hall for lunch ($6). Feel free to bring a friend!
Please Begin Saving
Leftover Roll Pans!
We will begin making Advent wreaths later this year and need your disposable roll pans. Please place them in the box behind the receptionist's desk. We want roll pans only; pie tins do not work. Thank you!
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Monday, September 14
10:30 am * Room 214
After a brief meeting, we will join the ECW in Graham Hall for program and lunch.
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Wednesday Night Programs
Begin September 16!
Supper: 5:30 to 6:30 - Graham Hall
Programs: 6:30 to 7:15, unless otherwise noted
Supper for the whole family begins at 5:30 pm in Graham Hall, followed by programs adults, youth, and children. Feel free to come for supper only if your schedule does not permit you to stay for the programs.
Nursery
Infants through Three-Year-Olds
Newborn to 12-months Room 130A
12 to 24-months Room 130B
24 to 36-months Room 133
Nursery for Three's Room 125
CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS
4K and 5K - Level I Atrium
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd - Room 220
6:30 pm to 7:15 pm
The theme for this level is the Good Shepherd who loves his sheep and gives everything for them. The child comes to discover who the Shepherd is and who the sheep are. The enjoyment of the gift of God's own self to the child is the foundation of further religious insight and moral development. This level could be characterized as a "time of joy and wonder" in the lives of the children.
1st, 2nd, & 3rd Graders - Level II Atrium
Catechesis of the True Vine - Room 110
6:30 pm to 7:15 pm
The overall theme for these years is the image of Christ as the True Vine, focusing on both relationship and responsibility. The History of the Kingdom of God is an important tool in introducing and illustrating God's work and planning on behalf of humanity. As the children begin to discover the vast cosmic history of God's plan and salvation, they begin to realize that they have something to contribute to it. Moral sensitivity and awareness begins here and grows as the work is presented.
4th, 5th, and 6th-Graders
Bible Games - Room 214
6:30 pm to 7:15 pm
Upper elementary students are invited to join Mrs. Emily for an upbeat and energetic lesson time. In Bible Games children will learn Bible stories while having a blast! Don't miss the fun!
Cherub Choir - Room 111
Five-Years through Second-Grade
Wednesdays - 5:45 pm to 6:25 pm
The Cherub Choir, for boys and girls, sings about once each month at the 10:30 am service and performs during the 3:00 pm Christmas Eve service. Natalie Fortson is the director.
Carolers Choirs - Children's Chapel
Third-Grade through Seventh Grade
Wednesdays - 5:45 pm to 6:25 pm
The Carolers Choir, for girls and boys, is directed by Sara Hagood. They sing about once a month for the 10:30 am service and for the 3:00 pm Christmas Eve service. They also provide music for the annual Christmas Pageant in December.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
The EYC program on Wednesday nights consists of dinner, fellowship, and Bible study. Both Junior and Senior EYC meet at 5:30 pm in Graham Hall for dinner with the parish. We have our very own EYC tables in Graham Hall! After dinner, all youth will head to the Lighthouse (3822 South Cove Drive) for Bible study and fellowship.
ADULT PROGRAMS
Dinner and the Movies with Your Saint Luke's Family
6:30 pm - Graham Hall
Rather than "gather and scatter," we're asking Saint Lukers to eat supper and watch a movie together. Rob Bell's short films teach lessons and raise questions about faith with entertaining and stimulating images. Rich Webster and guests will respond to the film with a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the audience.
Financial Peace University
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Room 232
Please not time is different than other programs
In this video-based small group study, Dave Ramsey teaches families how to beat debt, build wealth, and give like never before. Learn how to save money, live on a budget, communicate about money, find bargains, and experience the joy giving out of abundance. Dave is funny as well as insightful, explaining sound personal financial principles with an entertaining style that is never dull. The cost for the course and materials is $99.51 per family. For scholarships, contact Rebecca DeBow (802-6202 or rdebow@saint-lukes.com). If you need childcare, please contact Barbara Vandergriff (802-6207 or bvandergriff@saint-lukes.com).
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Wednesday Evening Eucharist
Imagine the chapel of Saint Luke's in the early evening; chairs are in a circle, and all is dark except for the candles on a small table, located in the center of the room. Our own Shaun Pezant softly plays the piano, drifting from tunes that are sweetly familiar to new arrangements that send your soul flying. Shadows dance among the arches while the priest offers bread and wine...
This is a new experience of worship at Saint Luke's, and we are offering this service in response to the success of our Lenten worship last winter. We call it, "Saint Luke's at Night" and it all takes place on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 pm. Please join us and please bring a friend!
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It's Time To Sign-Up For
Foyer Groups!
Saint Luke's membership is over 3,000, so how can we become acquainted with one another?
Consider a Foyer Group!
A group is composed of eight to ten people who meet monthly, from October through May. It is composed of singles, couples, young, and young-at-heart who share an evening in a home setting with supper and fellowship. Each group establishes its own format at the first meeting. Not all can host, but can help co-host with one who can lend a home.
To join, complete the form found in your Sunday bulletin or on the table in the Commons. For more information, please call Mary Britton (802-6217).
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Pastoral Care Notes
"Six Simple Weeks"
Grief Support Begins Thursday, September 24
For many years grief support groups were a regular feature of life at Saint Luke's, but finally died off due to a perceived lack of interest and participation. This fall we are "raising the flag" again, offering a six-week group experience for interested adults who may be struggling with an experience of loss. The group will be facilitated by the Rev. Steve DeGweck and will meet for six consecutive Thursday evenings beginning September 24th at 7:00 pm in the Tilson Room.
The group will focus on a different theme or aspect of the grief experience each week and will be built upon group members sharing their experiences and struggles within a safe, supportive, and prayerful fellowship. Once again, this is a SUPPORT GROUP, not a lecture course on grief. We will require a minimum of five participants in order to offer the group, and registration will be capped at twelve persons. The burden of coping with grief and loss can at times be overwhelming and debilitating. Healing can begin within a caring and supportive group where each participant is encouraged to share his/her journey with others. To register, or simply to know more about the group, call Steve (802-6203) or send him an e-mail at sdegweck@saint-lukes.com.
Loved Ones Hospitalized?
Once again, please be reminded that your clergy make daily visits to most of the major medical centers in Birmingham. If you or a loved one is hospitalized for any reason, especially overnight, please call the Clergy Secretary Barbara Vandergriff (802-6207) so we can make a pastoral visit. Given modern "privacy" regulations, it is virtually impossible for us to find out about your hospitalization unless you let us know. Hospitals will not call us, even if you register as a Saint Luke's member. Visiting our sick in hospitals is never an "inconvenience" to your priests; it is the reason we're here! Please help us to better serve all God's people at Saint Luke's by keeping us informed of illnesses or crises that may be affecting you or those you love.
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Mark Your Calendar For Lessons and Carols at Sewanee
The Service of Christmas Lessons and Carols in the beautiful candle-lit chapel of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee is an experience to remember! Once again, Saint Luke's will provide an organized bus trip for those who wish to attend the service as a group. This year's service takes place on Saturday, December 5th. The cost is $85 per person and includes tickets for reserved seating by church group, motor coach transportation to the campus, all pick-ups and drop-offs, and a catered dinner at the Sewanee Inn. We will depart around 8:30 am that morning and plan to return same day by midnight. Due to prohibitive cost increases, it was decided that staying over Saturday night was not feasible this time.
We have been guaranteed thirty-five tickets, available to Saint Luke's members on a first-come, first-served basis. Your check for full payment must accompany your reservation in order for the reservation to be considered final. Tickets will be made available to church members only until October 1. If we have tickets left over at that point, they will be made available to friends and family of parishioners. The group will be hosted by Mark and Mary Sue LaGory and Steve and Dawn DeGweck. Checks should be payable to Saint Luke's with Lessons and Carols noted in the memo section of you check. You may give your check to Mark, Steve, or clergy secretary Barbara Vandergriff in the Church Office. Don't delay! Make your reservations today for one of our region's most memorable holiday experiences.
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Lay Aside Items For 55th Place
Ingathering, Friday, October 2
As you sort through your closets this summer, please keep in mind that we will have a Fall Ingathering for 55th Place the first Friday in October (October 2). All you need to do is gather your items and drive to the church! Volunteers will be stationed at the porte-cochere to help remove donations from your car between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. We will accept used household items, linens, small appliances, small furniture, kitchen items, clothing, and more. 55th Place is one of our Saint Luke's outreach ministries, and proceeds go to help the needy in Birmingham.
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Menders Needed for
Saint Martin's
Do you have two hours every month or so to help re-stitch hems, sew buttons, and do general mending for the residents of Saint Martin's? A group meets the first Tuesday of each month, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at Saint Martin's. You do not need to be an experienced seamstress. If your fingers can sew on a button, we are happy to have you! For more information, please call Claudia Reach (960-6329).
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For Flu Shots!
Wednesday, October 7
2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Founders Room
Once again, we will offer flu shots for those eighteen years of age and older. The cost is $30. If you have Medicare, you will not be charged, but you must bring your card, so we can bill Medicare.
Please note: These shots are for the seasonal flu only; we do not have a vaccine for the H1N1 virus at this time. For more information, please contact Carol Pearce (802-6209).
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Stewardship Of Creation
Be A Part of the Shades Creek Clean-up!
The Stewardship of Creation Committee at Saint Luke's is taking part in the Shades Creek Clean-Up on Saturday, September 26 beginning at 8:30 am. Please mark your calendars, and watch for more information in upcoming Dialogues. For more information, contact Dianne Mize (969-2252 or mize2664@bellsouth.net).
We Need Kitchen Volunteers
The Stewardship of Creation committee is taking on a new project in Saint Luke's kitchen. During the preparation for Wednesday night suppers all committee members are asked to take a turn and rinse cans and put them in the recycling container. This takes approximately five to fifteen minutes, depending on what is planned for the evening meal. We are also asking for volunteers from the parish to take a turn once in the fall and once in the spring. Please contact Dianne Mize ( mize2664@bellsouth.net or 969-2252) or to sign up for a date.
Father Steve was our first volunteer to sign up and happily rinsed cans August 26th. Thanks Steve! The cans will now be recycled and spared from the land-fill.
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Adult Christian Education
Mid-Week Offerings
MONDAY
Level I Catechesis Training
This is the second semester of the training course that began last January. It includes ninety hours of instruction and prepares adults to serve as catechists in the Atrium of the Good Shepherd. This class is open only to those who began the training last January. To learn more about our Catechesis program for children, contact Ashley Monachelli (amonachelli@hotmail.com or 802-6221) Room 225
Beth Moore Bible Study
Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, and Kay Arthur explore their lives and the life of David in a DVD series, called, Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David. You'll laugh with them, cry with them, and learn to love God with them. These authors' messages are divided into three segments, two lessons each. Each segment focuses on the life of David at a different stage of his life: as a young man (by Priscilla Shirer), as a middle-aged man (by Beth Moore), and as a man facing the final third of his life (by Kay Arthur). Contact Barbara (802-6207 or bvandergriff@saint-lukes.com) to reserve a book. Monday mornings from 9:30 - 11:00 and Monday evening from 5:30 - 7:00, Room 224.
Seasons
This study and support group is open to all mothers with young children (through preschool age). For information contact Lisa Beck (lisaandcary@msn.com or 879-6818). Childcare is available. 10:30 am to 11:45 am, Tilson Room. This class does NOT meet the first Monday of each month.
Becoming a Disciple through Bible Study
Begins September 14
DISCIPLE is a program of disciplined Bible study aimed at developing strong Christian leaders. This thirty-four week overview gives the Old and New Testaments equal time, emphasizing the wholeness of the Bible as a revelation of God. The study draws upon the work of scholars, the personal Bible reading and study of the participant, and dynamic group discussion to aid understanding of the Bible. For more information, please contact the Rev. Rebecca DeBow (802-6202 or rdebow@saint-lukes.com). 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm, Small Dining Room, Led by Hans Watford.
Men's Bible Study:
Dreams and visions, handwriting on the wall and a fiery furnace-explore the strange, apocalyptic world of Daniel. Newcomers are welcome to join us at any time. Call Al Smith for more information (967-0593). 6:30 am, Tilson Room.
Short Term Disciple Bible Study:
Invitation to John
Begins September 8
The invitation from Christ is: "Come and see, Follow me." Experience the magnificent passages in John including the I AM statements (I am the truth, the life and the way, I am the living water and more). Re-visit stories only told in John's gospel, including Nicodemus, Mary Magdalene, and the raising of Lazarus. During the weekly video segments, travel into the scripture as you hear the Word, experience the grand artwork connected with each story, and interview the scholar. Each week wraps up with a small group discussion on video to spark your own conversation. Participants for this Invitation to John do not have to have an in-depth knowledge of the Bible to enjoy and benefit from participation. Reading just two chapters of John a week, they will discover the life altering stories that will invite them to follow Christ as true disciples. Contact Barbara (802-6207 or bvandergriff@saint-lukes.com) to reserve a book. Led by Joe Palmer and Betsy Smith, Tuesday mornings 9:00-10:30 am.
Second Seasons
Begins September 8!
A Bible study and support group for mothers of elementary age school children. Everyone is welcome to bring a lunch. For more information, please contact Livy Abele (586-6069 or livyabele@yahoo.com). Noon, Room 214.
Women's Bible Study
Spend some quality time with Sunday's Scripture. Women of all ages and stages enjoy studying the lectionary. 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Tilson Room.
Men's Bible Study and Breakfast
Led by the Rev. Richmond Webster, this group will study The Book of Acts. Breakfast is served, and the Bible study will conclude by 8:00 sharp. 7:00 am, Graham Hall.
Listening Hearts, Book Study and Breakfast.
Begins September 23
Drawing on centuries of Christian literature and "the silence of prayerful listening," this book shows how to recognize and define God's call. It explains how to eliminate barriers and prepare one's heart to receive that call while remaining faithful and attentive to God's voice. It also tells how a faith community can be a source of support to those who are discerning what God is saying to them. Class size is limited. Led by John Douglas and Rebecca DeBow. Contact Rebecca (802-6202 or rdebow@saint-lukes.com) to express your interest.
Wednesday Night Supper & Programs
Supper for the whole family begins at 5:30 pm in Graham Hall, followed by programs adults, youth, and children. Feel free to come for supper only if your schedule does not permit you to stay for the programs.
Dinner and the Movies with Your Saint Luke's Family, 6:30 pm - Graham Hall
Rather than "gather and scatter," we're asking Saint Lukers to eat supper and watch a movie together. Rob Bell's short films teach lessons and raise questions about faith with entertaining and stimulating images. Rich Webster and guests will respond to the film with a panel discussion followed by comments and questions from the audience.
Financial Peace University
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Room 232
In this video-based small group study, Dave Ramsey teaches families how to beat debt, build wealth, and give like never before. Learn how to save money, live on a budget, communicate about money, find bargains, and experience the joy giving out of abundance. Dave is funny as well as insightful, explaining sound personal financial principles with an entertaining style that is never dull. The cost for the course and materials is $99.51 per family. For scholarships, contact Rebecca DeBow (802-6202 or rdebow@saint-lukes.com). If you need childcare, please contact Barbara Vandergriff (802-6207 or bvandergriff@saint-lukes.com).
THURSDAY
Bishop's Bible Study
Named in honor of the late Bishop Furman Stough, this class is led by the Rev. Richmond Webster. Our study is The Book of Acts. The same study is also offered during the Men's Wednesday morning Bible Study. All women are welcome. 10:30 am, Room 232.
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Stephen Ministers
The "After" People
Stephen ministers are there...
- after the divorce papers have been served and the bottom falls out of your life.
- after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away-and the house seems incredibly empty.
- after you arrive home following the funeral service and the emotions you've held at bay come crashing in on you.
- after the relationship has ended but the wounds are still bleeding and painful.
- after the doctors have said, "There's nothing more we can do."
- after the door has slammed shut-for the very last time.
- after you've washed and returned the last casserole dish.
- after the phone call you'd always hoped you'd never get.
- after the nursing home director shakes your hand and says "Welcome to your new home."
- after the baby has arrived, putting more demands on you than you ever dreamed possible.
- after you find the pink slip inserted with what is now your final paycheck.
- after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out. Stephen Ministers are the "After" people. We are ready to walk alongside you (or your loved ones) and provide listening, prayer, and support for as long "after" as we're needed. If you or someone you care about might benefit from an on-going relationship with a Stephen minister, call or e-mail the Rev. Stephen DeGweck (802-6203 or sdegweck@saint-lukes.com).
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Helping PreSchool Partners!
Coupon Books
Once again, PreSchool Partners will sell the popular "Enjoy the City" coupon books, starting September 18. The books cost $20 and are full of wonderful budget saving coupons! You can pre-order your copy by calling Lella Carl (951-5151). Once the books arrive on September 18th, you may pick them up at PreSchool Partners (4565 Montevallo Road) any Tuesday-Friday, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, or in Johnailla Wright's office on second floor of Saint Luke's. The books are only available for a limited time (usually 3 weeks), so don't forget to order while they're hot! These coupon books make great gifts!
Christmas Tree Sale
PreSchool Partners' annual Faith Christmas Tree Sale will begin in October, and it's going to be bigger and better than ever - featuring "recession" pricing! We are significantly reducing the prices of our trees so that more people will be able to participate and hopefully raise more money to benefit our wonderful families of PreSchool Partners!
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Friday, September 11th
EYC Tailgating
Look for the church van in the Mountain Brook High School Parking lot around 5:30 pm before the game, and come join us for hot dogs, hamburgers, and all sorts of tailgating fun!
Sunday, September 13th
EYC Kick-Off Party!
Come help us kick-off another great year! We will be going to the Watford's Lake House for an afternoon of fun, swimming, boating, and games! Meet in the church parking lot around 1:00 pm and we will return by 5:00 pm. You don't want to miss out on all the fun!
Wednesday, September 16th
EYC Wednesday Night Programs resume! Dinner will be in Graham Hall from 5:30-6:15 pm (don't forget your $4). After dinner, Junior and Senior EYC will head over to the lighthouse from some fun and program time until 7:30 pm.
Be sure to check the Saint Luke's website for all updated information!
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Morning Enrichment Activities
For an additional fee, we have some great enrichment activities for your child! This year, we will offer gymnastics on Tuesday; taekwondo, ballet/jazz, and Abrakoodle art on Wednesday; Young Rembrandts Art, Music Together, and Abrakoodle art on Thursday; and CompuQuest on Friday. You will have an opportunity to register for these classes at Parent Orientation. Click HERE to print registration forms, or contact TaraKy (871-3453 or tbarnes@saint-lukes.com). Fall MUM Fundraiser
The Saint Luke's Day School will be selling Mums this fall. Please look for opportunities on Sundays and Wednesdays to place an order for these fall flowers beginning in September. All money raised from this will help go towards a second Day School security door key pad.
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Do You Have Your Blue Book?
The Blue Book is our Saint Luke's Parish Handbook for 2009 - 2010. It is full of information such as Christian education offerings, volunteer opportunities, important calendar information, staff contact numbers, and more! Your may pick up your copy in Claypool Commons.
Please take one copy per family,
so there will be enough for all to enjoy! |
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New Email Address?
So you won't miss any of the Saint Luke's digital newsletters, be sure to let Nancy Cain in the office know if your email address changes. Contact her at (ncain@saint-lukes.com or 802-6200).
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