The Lessons Appointed for use on
The Fourth Sunday in Lent

Year C
RCL 
 
 
The Holy Eucharist: Rite One  
Ten o'clock in the morning 

March 6, 2016  
 
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The Prodigal Son 1622
Artist: Gerrit van HONTHORST
Oil on wood, 130 x 196 cm
Alte Pinakothek, Munich
Source: Web Gallery of Art

THE COLLECT FOR SUNDAY
March 6, 2016

Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: Evermore give us this bread, that he may live in us, and we in him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
WORSHIP NOTES FOR THIS SUNDAY


WORSHIP NOTES FOR THIS SUNDAY


The Very Reverend Beverly Findley Gibson Ph.D.,
Dean and Rector

This fourth Sunday in Lent in the traditional Western Church calendar is referred to as "Laetare Sunday." The English translation of the Latin laetare is "rejoice," and the word comes from the opening words of the introit for the day: "Rejoice, O Jerusalem." On this Mid-Lent Sunday, the joy of the resurrection is in sight, and in our worship we look up from our Lenten work of repentance and fasting to look forward to the dawning of our salvation on Easter morning. Traditionally, this Sunday has been a day when rose-colored vestments could replace the purple, when flowers could be used, and when weddings could take place. In England, this day is known as "Mothering Sunday," when servants were released from duty for a day in order to visit their mothers. We may not observe all of these traditions at Christ Church Cathedral, but this Sunday will be a joyful turning toward Christ's resurrection.

Our journey through the Old Testament has taken us from God's promises to Abram, to His plan of deliverance given to Moses, and now we come to a moment of fulfillment. The Lord speaks to Moses' successor, Joshua, now arrived with the people in the Promised Land, telling him, "Today I have rolled away from you the disgrace of Egypt." The Israelites encamp at Gilgal and keep the Passover for the first time in the new land, celebrating their new life. They no longer eat the manna God has provided in the wilderness, but rather they enjoy the produce of their new home. Their work is not done, but they have reason to rejoice, and they do so.

Likewise, our gospel lesson focuses on rejoicing. The familiar parable of the prodigal son is actually the third in a series of parables that Jesus tells to demonstrate God's joy in finding what has been lost. The preceding parables of the lost sheep found by the faithful shepherd and of the lost coin found by the diligent sweeping woman are told along with this one to the religious leaders, who have been grumbling that Jesus welcomes and eats with sinners. They (and perhaps we, the already "blessed") are compared to the elder son who has been working for his father all along, but who receives nothing like the celebration offered for his returning wastrel brother. They and he and we have already received God's generous love. What God longs for is to share it with those who have been separated from it, for whatever reason.

This Sunday we will look upward and outward and forward, giving thanks for the "new creation" that we have been made through Christ. And we will ask ourselves how we be open to, welcome, and receive those around us whom God wants to embrace. 

Pulpit to Pew


Pulpit to Pew
 is a conversation between priest and parishioner - Dean Beverly Gibson and parishioner podcast host Johnny Gwin
- to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.




Episode 3B
BONUS PODCAST
Sermon - February 28, 2016
3rd Sunday of Lent 


To view Listening & Responding SabbaDoodle (sketch notes):

Giving yourself to engaged listening (and responding) can connect you more to your faith, community and the people closest to you. Plus, it adds fullness and richness to your spiritual and daily life. A church and a community is one of many and communication is a strong tool enriching and improving our relationships and understanding of one another.

The weekly episodes can be found here:
www.pulpittopew.com
MUSIC NOTES FOR THIS SUNDAY



Christopher Powell
Organist and
Choir Master

Sunday's music in observance of the Fourth Sunday of Lent is especially exciting, as it should be when considering the history of this particular Sunday. Historically, this Sunday is known as Laetare Sunday, and some churches use rose colored vestments to highlight the more joyous/less penitential nature of this day. The word, Laetare, is the first Latin word of the introit for the Fourth Sunday of Lent, and it is translates as, "rejoice." Especially in "the old days," it was important to step back and take a break from heavy duty repentance and express joy at the coming of Easter. All this is to say that our music will be focused more on the joy of salvation and praise of God's work than on repentance this Sunday.
 
Sunday's offertory music was composed by our own choir member, Cleamon Downs (b. 1947). A women's trio from the choir will sing his Jesu dulcis memoria. Listen for the ethereal chant-like melody with quiet, lush chords from the organ. Cleamon wrote this piece in memory of his mother, and it is easy to hear the tenderness with which it is composer, but the very text itself also expresses tenderness. Jesu dulcis memoria is an old Latin hymn that is translated below. Cleamon does an excellent job expressing this text in modern music while still respecting its ancient roots.
 
Jesus, how sweet the very thought,
Giving true joy to the heart,
But sweeter than honey and all else
Is His presence.
 From:  Translations and Annotations of Choral Repertoire, Volume I:  Sacred Latin Texts
Compiled and Annotated by Ron Jeffers:  1988 Earthsongs
 
During Communion, the choir will sing God So Loved the World by John Stainer (1840-1901). Certainly, this is the best known movement from his large work, The Crucifixion. This piece has enjoyed enormous popularity even bordering on overuse in the opinion of some. Personally, I view this movement as an old favorite worthy of repeating due its simple text and music that, together, create a memorable piece that "brings home" its message. Of course, this work sets the text of John 3:16, a verse beloved by Christians everywhere.
 
So it is with these works, coupled with familiar hymns, that we observe Laetare Sunday. It is our hope that the music will underscore the message of salvation and that it will help to lift our spirits during Lent. On Laetare Sunday, we anticipate Easter joy, and music new and old will aid us in doing just that.
 
MINISTERS OF THE LITURGY

Celebrant and Preacher
Dean Gibson

Assisting
Canon Wagner

First Reading
Alison Mitchell

Psalmist
David Ross

Second Reading
Lucy Moore

Intercessor
Judy Henson

Chalice Bearers
Leland Moore, Ginny Behlen

Oblationers 
Barbara Archer, Harriet Jean Boughton

Crucifers 
Charlie Ramo, Annabelle Ramo

Acolytes 
Julianna Ramo, William Russell, Blake Ferguson,
Lawson Hamil, Elinor Gibson

Children's Chapel
Skip Archer, Tré Mitchell

Altar Guild 
Barbara Archer, Jennifer Grehan,
Donna Moreé, M. J. Ramo, Martha Ann Stafford

Flower Guild
Homer McClure

Ushers 
Chuck McKay, Tony Brown,
Burnley Davis, Jordan Ellis, Thad Hendrix, David Ross

Hospitality Team
 Kathy Thurber, Mary Esther Elliott, Liz Ferguson,
Natalie Coale, Gretchen Cooper, Susan Garth

CATHEDRAL NOTES

LENTEN MUSIC AT NOON
Lenten noon-day concerts are 30 minutes, 
followed by a luncheon in the Chapter House.
  • 11:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II in the Chapel
  • 12:00 p.m. Meditation and Music in the Church
  • 12:30 p.m. Luncheon in Chapter House

Wednesday, March 9 
Bella Voce Women's Chorus 
Again this season, we welcome Bella Voce, the ever-popular "premier" women's chorus of Mobile. Engaging innovative, this group of ladies is sure to delight and inspire.

Wednesday, March 16 
A Classic Combination 
This program features beautiful compositions for violin and piano. Hear violinist, Gosia Leska, and pianist, Christopher W. Powell.

______________

SUNDAY AFTERNOON EUCHARIST IN LENT
Today & March 13 at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel
Come experience a quiet afternoon liturgy at the Cathedral.


ADULT INQUIRERS CLASS
Tuesday, March 8 & Tuesday, March 15
At 5:15 p.m., in the library.
This class is for those interested in joining the Episcopal Church. Please contact Dean
Gibson or Canon Wagner if you would like to attend.


CATHEDRAL PARKING
The parking lot across Church Street from the church has again changed management. New management has installed a machine to take the place of the parking lot attendant. A vestry committee is working with the parking company to see how we can work together. For now, they do not charge for Sunday morning parking, and for the foreseeable future, there will be an attendant at the lot on Wednesdays. For now, tell the attendant you would like to have your ticket validated and bring the ticket to the office to be stamped. As always, the charges for parking will be billed monthly to the Cathedral office.


EYC
Sunday, March 13, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Our youth will attend a progressive fast/dinner in several parishioners' homes in Ashland Place. There is no cost. Please see Canon Wagner or Sarah Bolt if you would like to assist or have questions.


FUN CLUB
Next Sunday, March 13
The Fun Club will head over to Eastern Shore to go bowling and play laser tag. The approximate cost is $30. Please see Banks Ladd or Canon Wagner if you can assist.

_______________

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE

Palm Sunday, March 20
10:00 a.m.
Liturgy of the Palms begins in the garden.
Stripping of the Altar will conclude the service.
Annual Parish Photo will follow in the garden.


Monday, March 21; Tuesday, March 22 & Thursday, March 24
Noon in the Chapel
Holy Eucharist


Wednesday, March 23
11:00 am
Clergy Service for Renewal of Ordination Vows followed by 
lunch at Noon.


Wednesday, March 23
5:30 p.m. in the Chancel
Tenebrae
The name Tenebrae (the Latin word for "darkness" or "shadows" has for centuries been applied to the ancient monastic night and early monring services (Matins and Lauds) of the last three days of Holy Week.  The Service is known for its extinguishing of candles while Scripture is read or sung. 


Maundy Thursday, March 24
5:30 p.m. in the Chapel
Holy Eucharist with Foot Washing


Friday, March 25
Noon in the Church
Good Friday Liturgy


Easter Sunday, March 27
10:00 a.m. Festival Eucharist
11:30 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt in the garden

___________________________

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THE CATHEDRAL CELEBRATES
  COOKBOOK
CATHEDRAL PRAYERS

O God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers: Mercifully accept our prayers, and grant to your servants the help of your power, that their sickness may be turned into health, and our sorrow into joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


WE PRAY FOR:
  
Members:
Brink Brinkley, Sonny Burchfield, Alice Carwie, Katherine Deaton, Hank Cobb, Gary Kohler, Martha Middleton, Jordan Moore

Friends & Family:
Peggy Naughton, Gary Davis, Harrison Leff, Michael Cameron, Nancy & Don Cameron, Rob & Amy Archer Ellis, Joyce Lee, Davis Nelson, Michael Sumrall, Gwen Cook, Alfred Showers, Jim Elia, Anne Brown, Mark Brown, Harriett Lillich, Dave Carlyn Block, Rachel McClanahan, Tom Cunningham, Norma Beazley, Curtis Bullock, Valerie Boatman, Ann Jones, Hank Wozniek, Lisa Thompson, Stella Phillips, James Thomas, Ted Fraiche, Mark Miles, Tot Swanson, Art Swanson, Hayden Jenkins, Maggie Jenkins, Carolyn Pryor, Merle Findley, Louise Douglas, Shirley & Dunlap Peeples, Steve Harris, Marian Macpherson Currie, Kit & Roger Geil, Angel & Larry Torres, Kathy Boucvalt, Bill Stevens, Ginger Simpson, Karen Sentilles, Lila Fisk, Tracey Johnson, Joe Lowrey, Temple Webber, Betty Browder, Allan Tucker, Kathy Sanders, Clarise Waters, Glenn Hill, Leslie Ellis Sharbel, Marian Hall, Homer Kemp, Jane Behlen, Dan Jones, Carolyn Graham, Ralph Neal, Mark Mason, Anita Stead, Tim Fulton, Bennett Stenger, Gladys Crowson, Billy Yost, Noel Fell, Sybil Willis Rodgers, Hap Myers, Jr., Paul Vickers, Sr., George Robison, Georgia Dominick, Robin Wade, Randy Moore, Rick Nichols, Kate Heddrich, Julie Brinson, Ceaser Bryant, Moana Karstater, Icy Lee Neel, Frances Robison, Emily Hubbard, Mike Dowers, Jason Lockwood, Pat Fisher, Bubba Murray, Bernice Vickers, Jerry Collins, Grady McMillan, Bobby Moss, Kerry Goode, The Rev. John Rees, Chris Schnieder, Liz Charbonnet Talmadge, John Day Peake, Jr., A. J. Villars, Kaye Koffler, Tay Morrissette, Robert L. Hatcher, Bob Williams, Mary Katzman, Jennifer Strong, David Keniston, Zaidee Galloney, Maggie Behlen, Evelyn and Bill McGeHee, Chrissie Irby, Adele Stuardi Gwatkin, Lydia Moore, Bill Betbeze, B. F. Paty Daves, Ralph Boudreaux, Tommy Roberson, Billy Bailey, Henry Trice, Pete and B.J. Cobb, Carolyn Shores Wright, Cathlene Quizon, Rip Nance, Shelley Carr Nightingale, Charlie Mae Moreé, Fred Bennett, John Houston Tatum, Jr., Mary Christine Wilson,  Wayne Boudreaux, E. J. Boudreaux

For Those Serving in the Military:
Brian Caselton, Louis Coggin, Jonathan Duralde, Tyler Gamble, Sam Garcia, Darrien Gibson, Parker Hollinghead, Kelley Hood, Brian Hudson, Abby Hutchins, Randy Johnson, Ron Lansong, Jean-Michael Lemieux, Chris Marslender, Zack Miller, Todd & Jordana Mouthaan, Keith Moss, Michael Nassar, Jerry Olin, Brian Pennell, Josh Power, Daniel White-Spunner Reed, Susan Reniewicz, Evan Sizemore, John Snyder, Conner Thigpen, Ryan Anthony Thomas, Ryan Walker, The Rev. Bowen Woodruff, Tom Pearce, Colton Ulmer, Margie Hall Malloy

Anglican Cycle of Prayer: 
The Church of England

Cathedral Cycle of Prayer: 
St. Agatha's, DeFuniak Springs, Florida; Sara Phillips, Pastoral Leader, St. Mary's, Coden

Ecumenical Cycle of Prayer: 
The Church in Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino, & New Life Ministries, Mobile

Prison Ministry Cycle of Prayer: 
Calhoun Correctional Institution, Blountstown, Florida
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