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Bishop Rob Wright talks with students at the Episcopal Center, Wednesday, Jan. 27. The Bishop worshiped, ate, and held a discussion about the scripture, tradition, and reason, that supports the structure of the Episcopal church. Photo: Bill Monk | View more photos here>>. |
Sunday, Feb. 14
+ Bishop Rob Wright -- St. Mary Magdalene, Columbus
+ Assistant Bishop Keith Whitmore -- Transfiguration, Rome
Sunday, Feb. 21
+ Bishop Rob Wright -- St. Anthony's, Winder
Wednesday, Feb. 24
+ Bishop Rob Wright will visit Grace Church and Campus Ministry in Gainesville.
Sunday, Feb. 28+ Bishop Rob Wright -- St. Gregory's, Athens
+ Assistant Bishop Don Wimberly -- Trinity, Columbus
Friday, March 25
+ Bishop Rob Wright will attend the 53rd Annual YMCA Good Friday Breakfast from 7 - 9:30 a.m. on at Conn Galleria Centre in Atlanta.
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The schedule of Bishop Visitations for the first half of 2016 is posted here>>.
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KEEPING THE FAITH.
Bishop Rob Wright and the Rev. Jamie Stutler take a quick pic during the Bishop's visit to St. Clement's in Canton on Sunday, Feb. 7. Photo: Bill Monk | View more photos
here >>.
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Bishop Wright Published in February Vestry Papers
Read Bishop Wright's inspirational article "Fire First!" here>>.
Recalling
something from a recent issue but don't see it here?
Just click for the archive:
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RESOURCES
Deadline for submitting news items for Connecting is noon Fridays before the next week's publication. Send news and photos to:
Please include location and address for all events and a web link to the full story.
This newsletter is published biweekly by the Diocese of Atlanta except for occasions involving Thanksgiving, Christmas and the editor's vacation. It is distributed on alternating Wednesday evenings.
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| | SHARING BREAD. Third and eighth-graders at Holy Innocents' Episcopal School packaged 10,152 meals in one morning on January 27 for children being served by the organization Stop Hunger Now. The project was inspired and mainly organized by Global Service Teacher Sherry Sawicki. |
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Ashes on the Fly
People at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport were able to receive the traditional Ash Wednesday imposition of ashes this morning thanks to the Rev. Donna S. Mote, Episcopal Church chaplain at the airport. Reminders of our need, humility, and healing shouldn't be confined to a church building, she says. God meets us not just in worship but in the midst of life.
#GrowForLent How can you feel closer to God? Your neighbor? How can you love like Jesus? Over the next 40 days, Bishop Rob Wright challenges you to take up a practice to grow your spirituality. Watch for more details in this week's FOR FAITH email from Bishop. And be sure to follow us on Twitter at @episcopalatl and like the Diocese of Atlanta on Facebook. We want to hear from you and learn how you plan to #GrowForLent.
See Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's 2016
Lenten Message "The season of Lent is upon us. It is a season of making a renewed commitment to participate and be a part of the movement of Jesus in this world." See video here>>.
Art by: the Rev. Shawna Bowman
Lenten Quiet Day | This Friday and Saturday Join us at the start of your Lenten Journey. Quiet, prayer, meditative music, art, yoga, stories, poetry, journaling, walking are planned for Friday, February 12, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 13, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration deadline: Today, Ash Wednesday, Feb. 10. Cost is $15. The day includes a light breakfast and boxed lunch. Scholarships are available. Please speak with Mother Julia. St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, 4755 North Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30338. For more information, click here >>. Study "Just Mercy" at Wednesday Night Suppers | Starts February 17 St. James' Episcopal Church in Marietta is offering family suppers, followed by an adult book study starting on February 17. The series will last for five Wednesdays. A light supper will be served at 6 p.m. and the book program will last from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Children's activities and Youth Choir are planned. People from outside of the parish are welcome. Please contact Sharon Whelan at scw8341@aol.com to register or for more information.
Lenten Quiet Day, Cathedral of St. Philip | February 27 "God is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear?" (Psalm 27). What can we learn from our fear, and how can we respond to it as people of faith? This Lenten Quiet Day will include praying with stories, scriptures, and spiritual practices, such as Welcoming Prayer, that can help us explore and befriend fear in scary times. The retreat will be facilitated by the the Rev. Lynnsay Buehler, director of the Julian of Norwich Center. For more information, contact Jeanne Mahood at JMahood@stphilipscathedral.org.
Good Friday Stations of the Cross | March 25 Plan to join Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville and five other denominations on Good Friday at 2:00 p.m. for Stations of the Cross "on the street." The Stations will be observed along the main street in Gainesville where various historical events will be highlighted through the placement of the crosses. All are welcome to participate. For more information, contact Rev. Dr. Cynthia Park at 770-536-0126. |
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Absalom Jones Feast Day Service | This Saturday
 The Feast of Absalom Jones service will take place at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Atlanta this Saturday, Feb. 13 at 1 p.m.
Dr. Catherine Meeks, Retired Clara Carter Acree Distinguished Professor of Socio-Cultural Studies at Wesleyan College and chair of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta's Commission for Dismantling Racism, will speak on the topic "What Does Justice Mean in 2016?" The Rt. Rev. Keith B. Whitmore, Assistant Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, will officiate the service.
This service celebrates the life and legacy of the Rev. Absalom Jones, America's first African American priest. The event is sponsored by The Union of Black Episcopalians, and is open to the public. Parishes are asked to bring banners for the processional. All clergy are asked to wear white stoles for the service. For more information, please contact Tiffany King at tifferlk@yahoo.com. |
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Kathryn Folk Is New Ga. Tech Campus Chaplain
The Diocese is pleased to announce that Kathryn Folk has been appointed Campus Missioner to serve Georgia Tech. Folk, a GT alumna, has considered campus ministry since her junior year in college but followed a different path until God placed her right back at Tech 20 years later, in what she says is her dream job.
Folk is a small business owner with over 16 years of business experience, specializing in executive coaching, operations consulting and business strategy. She believes in more than just leaving an organization better than how she found it; she takes pride in equipping people with skill sets to be true difference-makers within organizations and believes campus ministry is no different.
Folk has worked with churches helping conduct mission/vision workshops and more. She continues to teach Rite 13 at her church and is a Verger. Prior to her appointment at Tech, she volunteered with the campus ministry at Kennesaw State. Folk is married to Lance, is the proud mother of Salome Frances, and has two awful cats, Hope and Faith.
New Hispanic Church Mission The first Spanish-speaking Eucharistic service at St. Gabriel's Episcopal Church in Oakwood was celebrated on January 24. The goal is to build the congregation of about 40 people to more than 100 over the next year. The parish, just outside of Gainesville, hopes to provide a place of worship for Spanish speakers in north Georgia. Padre Samuel Porras will conduct services. For more information on Hispanic Missions, click here >>.
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Youth and Young Adult News
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Get the latest news from the Episcopal Youth Community here. |
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Young Adults and the Church: Identifying Gaps and Strengthening Intersections
Real Talk: Join us at St. Luke's on Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at 6 p.m. for an exciting and open conversation facilitated by Bishop Rob Wright. We'll discuss and explore ways in which Church is relevant and meaningful for young adults -- or not. Where are the connections between young adults and the Church being made? Where are they not being made?
We welcome people of all ages, background, and denominations to participate, with a special invitation to folks in their 20s and 30s. Dinner will be served. All are welcome to join. For more information or to RSVP, please contact The Rev. David Wagner at wagner@stlukesatlanta.org, 404-873-7633 or The Rev. Dennis Patterson at dennis@stlukesatlanta.org, 404-873-7609.
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Considering a Call to Ministry? | February 20
Come to the "Here I Am" Retreat Day with your sponsor to learn about the process of discernment and how the Christian community listens for God's call to each baptized person.
The retreat will be Saturday, Feb. 20 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Philip. Bishop Rob Wright will be there, along with representatives of the diocesan Commission on Ministry. Additional leaders with skills for guiding a discernment process will also be there to help.
Rectors and/or sponsoring priests with potential candidates are required to register and attend. Spouses/partners are encouraged to register and attend as well. This is an important step for continuing this year's provisional process for the priesthood and the diaconate. Attendees will be given a set of questions to discuss with sponsoring clergy following the retreat.
Cost is $20 per person. Early morning refreshments and lunch are included. Register by Monday, Feb. 15. Register here>>.
Church Pension Group's Planning For Tomorrow | Lay February 25 and Clergy February 26-27
The Planning For Tomorrow Conference for lay employees in the Diocese of Atlanta will be on Thursday, Feb. 25. The clergy session will be held Feb. 26-27. For more information, lay employees click here>> and clergy click here>>.
Retreat to "Rediscover the Lost Body Connection within Christian Spirituality" | February 26 - 27
Learn how to use the "BioSpiritual Focusing" spiritual practice to develop new ways to listen to your body to facilitate spiritual growth, creativity, healthcare, decision making and stress reduction.
The Rev. Elizabeth Rechter, formerly of the Cathedral of St. Philip and current executive director of Stillpoint: the Center for Christian Spirituality in Southern California, will facilitate. The retreat will take place on Friday, Feb. 26 7 - 9 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 1790 LaVista Road, Atlanta. Cost is $60. To register, email amersonhouse@gmail.com.
Becoming Benedictine: A Radical Call Toward Spiritual Community | February 27 Come worship and commune at St. Aidan's Episcopal Church in Milton, Ga. and learn more about the Community of Hope International (CoHI). The Keynote speaker will be the Rev. Stuart HIgginbotham, Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville, Ga. The day will last from 9:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an optional dinner to follow. The mission of CoHi is to create and sustain Christian communities of lay pastoral caregivers united in prayer, shaped by Benedictine spirituality, and equipped for and serving in pastoral care ministries. Cost is $25 for the workshop and lunch and an additional $10 for dinner. To register, contact Harmony Kiser (770) 667-75494 or harmony.kiser@comcast.net.
English Tea at Holy Trinity | February 28 Bring your friends and come enjoy English tea and treats at this event benefiting Community Outreach programs. There will be two seatings: one at 2 p.m. and one at 4 p.m. Cost is $15 in advance and $20 at the door (if available). Call 404-377-2622 for tickets.
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Called to Lead | March 5
On Saturday, March 5, 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church, Atlanta, wardens, vestries and treasurers are invited to Called to Lead, a one-day training with Bishop Rob Wright and his staff designed to support and enhance lay leadership. Clergy are invited to attend as well. For details and registration, click here>>.
Hunger Walk | March 13
Sunday, March 13, 12 - 4 p.m., Turner Field, Atlanta
Support Episcopal Charities Foundation and participate in this year's Hunger Walk/Run along with the people and parishes of the Diocese of Atlanta. This 5K event raises funds and awareness for hunger relief every spring. Whether you choose to walk or run, you'll join thousands coming together to support our neighbors in need and celebrate the work that's being done. For more details and to register, click here 2016 Hunger Walk>>.
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Atlanta Organist Shannon Gallier Cathedral of St. Philip Performance | February 21
Gallier will give a recital at the Cathedral of St. Philip on Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016, at 3:15 p.m. A graduate of Centenary College of Louisiana and Indiana University, Shannon currently serves as Organist and Choirmaster at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in Atlanta. Following the recital, at 4:00 p.m. the Cathedral will offer the weekly service of Choral Evensong sung by the Cathedral Schola. The recital and Choral Evensong are both free admission, and the general public is cordially invited to attend. For more information, see www.stphilipscathedral.org/music.
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Safe Church Training Day | February 27
For those who work with children:
Saturday, Feb. 27 | Atlanta
9 a.m. to noon, The Cathedral of St. Philip
Diocesan Trainer: The Rev. Dr. Deborah Silver
Saturday, Feb. 27 | Cartersville
9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., The Church of the Ascension
Diocesan Trainer: The Rev. Mary Erickson
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For those who work with adults:
DETAILS CAN BE FOUND HERE >>.
Saturday, Feb. 27 | Atlanta
1 - 4 p.m. , The Cathedral of St. Philip
Diocesan Trainer: The Rev. Dr. Deborah Silver
Saturday, Feb. 27 | Cartersville
1:30 - 4:30 p.m., The Church of the Ascension
Diocesan Trainer: The Rev. Mary Erickson
If you have questions about our Safe Church programs and policies, visit the website here or contact the Rev. Deborah Silver. |
CDF Freedom School Internship Opportunities | Deadline: February 15
The Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools program at
Emmaus House is looking for 12 servant leader interns for this summer. They will serve as facilitators in the classroom and act as leaders of parent workshops and community outreach activities. The deadline to apply is Feb. 15. More information can be found by clicking
here>>. |
Church of the Common Ground Part-Time Administration Position
Approximately 8 hours per week. Tasks include but are not limited to: create monthly newsletter, maintain website, create and maintain database, general correspondence, inventory and purchase
supplies, confirm volunteers and visiting church groups. For more information contact the Rev. Mary Wetzel, Vicar at
mary@churchofthecommonground.org.
The Friendship Center at Holy Comforter Part-Time Fundraising Coordinator
This part-time position is being created to support the fundraising initiatives of the Friendship Center, an inclusive community that provides anchoring services and relationships for adults who live in financial poverty and who live with chronic mental health challenges. For more information, contact the Rev. Alexis Chase at vicar@holycomforter.org.
Covenant House Job Fair Seeks Employers
Looking to hire? Sign up to meet pre-screened young adults looking for job opportunities in Atlanta on March 1 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Covenant House Georgia is one of the few organizations in the state that provides shelter and education and vocational services for homeless youth between ages 18 and 21 so they can build a plan for their future. We're especially looking for positions accessible by public transportation. Our residents are excited for job opportunities and eager to develop new skills. Please contact Michael Swahn at mswahn@sebench.com to register or for more information. St. Martin's Episcopal School Seeks Religious Studies Teacher
For more information, click here >>.
St. Patrick's Episcopal Church Seeks Director of Children's Ministries
For more information, click here >>.
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Diocesan Resource Center to Close | March 1
After many years of declining use, the Diocesan Resource Center will close March 1. Parishes are invited to visit the Resource Center at the Diocese Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. until February 29 to select books, curricula materials and videos the parish may want to have. Please bring boxes to take the selected materials away. All books and materials remaining as of March 1 will be donated to the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. Its purpose is to enable Christians in their indigenous churches to grow in faith and knowledge. Do you have questions or is someone from your parish planning a visit? Please contact Mary Job at 404-601-5320 mjob@episcopalatlanta.org.
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Updated Vestry Resource Guide
Whether you're a new vestry member or a seasoned veteran, the Episcopal Church Foundation's newly revised Vestry Resource Guide is essential reading. With a deliberate focus on the importance of lay and clergy leadership teams, you'll find comprehensive information and advice about the ministry of the vestry, leading faith communities, stewardship, the vestry's canonical responsibilities for finance and administration, and navigating clergy transitions.
This new edition of the Vestry Resource Guide also reflects the concept of shared ministry and emphasizes the role of the governing body in strengthening the leadership capacity of congregations. Chapters on vision and planning as well as building strong leadership teams reflect our work with congregations across the United States. Each chapter ends with a list of resources. It is available in both print and e-book formats.
Vestry Resource Guide is available in both English and Spanish. Visit Forward Movement for more information and pricing.
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For updates from the Episcopal News Service, click here>>.
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