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Dear Friends,
The subject of same-gendered marriage has been very much in the news lately, particularly with President Obama's announcement of his support coming just after the passage of "Amendment 1" in North Carolina.
In the midst of the often heated discussions we hear people talk about what "the Bible says". As a long-time student of the Bible I think it is extremely important to understand the historical setting and the context of each mention of homosexuality in the Bible:
* First and foremost, Jesus never once mentioned the subject
* The remaining passages in Genesis 19, Leviticus 18 and 20, Romans 1, I Corinthians 6, I Timothy 1, and Jude 1 do not describe loving, committed, long-term relationships in the way we understand them today. Instead they deal with rape, ritual sex in Pagan temples, orgies, child molesters, and people who have sex with other species.
From a sociological/historical perspective it is sad to note that the same kind of "the Bible says" language was used to support laws against interracial marriage. These weren't overturned until 1967 by the Supreme Court in the case of Loving vs Virginia.
From a scientific perspective, evidence continues to grow that homosexuality is not a "life style choice" (who would choose to be bullied, vilified, attacked...?), but rather an orientation, just as heterosexuality is an orientation.
At the Episcopal Church's 2009 General Convention, a resolution was passed leaving the decision to bless same-gendered unions/marriages up to each individual diocese. Our bishop, +Leo Frade, has approved the blessing of unions/marriages which have taken place in states or countries where they are legal. The 2009 General Convention also called upon the Standing Committee for Liturgy and Music to develop a liturgy for the blessing of same-gendered marriages/unions to be brought to the General Convention which will take place this summer in Indianapolis.
Personally, I am proud to belong to a church in which our 5th baptismal vow promises that we will "strive for justice and peace, respecting the dignity of all persons." The dignity of ALL persons. Amen.
In Christ's love,
Pastor Willie
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We Are Proud to Announce
Our School Has a New Chaplain!
 As you know, Chaplain Vanessa Stone will not be returning next school year because of health issues. Please continue to keep her and her family in your prayers. Beginning July 1 our new chaplain will be SSEC's own Deacon-soon-to-be-Father Michael Picou. Michael is known and loved by all in the parish community; he will soon be sharing his gifts for teaching, pastoral care, liturgy, and much more with the wider St. Stephen's community. Welcome aboard, Michael! |
Book Sale This Sunday
Buy a Book and Support Our Youth
 This Sunday after church our Youth Groups will be selling books in the back of the church for one dollar for hardbacks and fifty cents for paperbacks. Please take this opportunity to add to your library and support our youth at the same time. Proceeds will go towards their 2013 Urban Adventure.
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Getting Involved, Staying Connected
Four Sundays to Learn How
 If you are new to St. Stephen's and would like to find out how to get more involved, here is your chance. Our Fellowship Committee has been highlighting a different area of ministry each week. Previously we've highlighted Learning, Justice/Service and Worship. As you arrive at church this Sunday you will be invited to fill out a name tag listing either the ministries with which you are currently involved in the highlighted area, or those in which you'd like to be involved so we can connect you to people with similar interests. This Sunday we are highlighting Mercy, the ways we take care of each other and our parish.
The activities within each ministry area are described in our brochure Getting Involved, Staying Connected. These areas come directly from the St. Stephen's mission statement:
We celebrate in our community a real and present God, who affirms the precious value of every person in the life and example of Jesus.
We seek out, invite, and welcome all people and encourage them to join us in a life of worship, mercy, justice, learning, and service.
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Panel to Discuss GLBT Family Issues
Mental Health Professionals at St. Stephen's
All are invited to participate in a panel discussion about issues facing LGBT families and their children from 2 to 4 pm on Saturday, May 19, in St. Stephen's Great Hall. After the panel, stay for a social event hosted by Shining Families at 4:30 pm.
If you would like child care for the afternoon, please register online at sobelaw.com/panelreg.html.
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This is T.R.U.E. Fund Sunday
For The Relief of Urgent Emergencies
 On one Sunday each month we dedicate part of our plate collection that is designated for the T.R.U.E. fund. This fund is administered by Ann Strickland and serves, among others, the Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, a social services agency in Coconut Grove that serves senior citizens, at-risk adolescents, and others. This particular fund is set aside for those who would otherwise not be eligible for assistance - people who for whatever reason find themselves in need of one-time assistance.
This Sunday you will find yellow envelopes in the pews or in the back of the church. Please give generously to this worthy cause.
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Youth Group Miami Zoo Trip
Up For A "Wild Night" on June 1
 The St. Stephen's Intermediate / Middle School Youth Group will have a "Wild Night" at the Miami Zoo on Friday, June 1, from 5 to 10 pm. Fourth through 8th graders are invited (including rising 4th graders). The evening will include a pizza dinner and a behind-the-scenes walking tour of animals who usually are most active at night. This will be the last Youth Group event of the 2011-2012 academic year. There is no charge for St. Stephen's Youth Group members. Please let Rev'd Jo-Ann ( jmurphy@sseds.org or 305-537-1297) know as soon as possible if you can attend. |
May 27th is Pentecost
Wear Red and Celebrate the Church's Birthday
 On Sunday, May 27th, we commemorate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles of Christ. It is for this reason that we know Pentecost as "The Birthday of The Church." We fly banners with representing the Holy Spirit, and many of us wear red to church to symbolize the energy of the Holy Spirit or the flames that appeared over the apostles' heads at Pentecost (the Spirit is incendiary within us).
Plan on coming to church on the 27th, wearing something red, and enjoying the special celebration. |
Upcoming Events
Don't Forget These Dates
May 19 - Conference on GLBT Family Issues, 2 to 4 pm
May 27 - Pentecost - wear red!
June 1 - Youth Group's "Wild Night at the Zoo" from 5 to 10 pm
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At St. Stephen's All Are Welcome
Sundays
Said Mass at 8 am
Sung Mass with choir at 10:30 am,
with child care for children under 3
and Children's Chapel for children 7 and under
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 to 5
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