We are thrilled to announce that St. Philip's will begin our own Cherub Choir program. It is open to ages 4-8 (kids outside that range can be considered,  so do not hesitate to ask!). This choir will primarily involve early music education--learning the basics of music, learning the sense of rhythm and pitch in fun classes with our new Director, Natalie Hall. Ms. Hall studies Music Education at U of A with an emphasis on voice. She also works as the Assistant for young voices of Tucson Girls Chorus, and she will also be helping as the Instructor for the After-School Music Program. We are excited to have her on board! It is always a challenge to spread the word around when you begin a program. We would appreciate it immensely if you can let your friends know that we will begin this wonderful program. If you have any questions, or would like more details, please contact our Director of Music, Woosug Kang, at woosug.kang@stphilipstucson.org or 299-6421 ext 19.


The After School Music Program will begin next week -- on September 9. We still need a violin teacher and 20 more volunteers to be ready. Won't you consider giving 2 to 3 hours one afternoon a week (Monday through Thursday) to help these wonderful children. You will work with others and make new friends. You will enrich your life and the lives of the children. There are many jobs; help with homework, ride in a van to pick up children at school, teach piano or be with a child while they practice, teach violin or help children as they practice. You can also be a snack person or (simple short job) a substitute. Share your gifts. You will be so happy you did. WE NEED YOU! Visit our table during Coffee Hour to get more information from a volunteer or director Barby Goldschmid, or come to an orientation this Thursday, September 5, in the music center at 2 p.m. to learn more. Any questions call Barby 237-8881.

The After-School Music Program Choir with the St. Nicholas Choir and leaders at recent Choir Camp

On the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., the Sarum Compline Service is prayed in the Baptistry. Compline is the last monastic prayer service of the day before the monks retire. The service is sung in Gregorian chants, but knowledge of how to chant and how to read Gregorian chant notations is not necessary. Everyone is invited to join us to pray and reclaim this wonderful Anglican liturgical tradition. The next service will be on Tuesday, September 10.

What is a LEM? A LEM (Lay Eucharistic Minister) is a member of St. Philip's who takes communion to members who are not able to attend church. We visit twice a month at homes or assisted living facilities. This enables members of the Body of Christ who have been unable to attend church services to join in partaking of our common meal. We LEMs often say that being a LEM enriches our lives, as it opens us up to the suffering, pain, and acute needs of others. This ministry to others is an expression of Christ's ministry to us; it is, in fact, one of the ways God touches others. Do you seek a deeper relationship with God? Are you being called by God to this ministry? The next LEM training will be held on Sunday, September 15, at 10:15 a.m. or 12:15 p.m. To enroll in the training or learn more about this ministry, please contact Kathy Zwald or call 203-1234.

St. Philip's Mental Illness Ministry is offering a Mental Health First Aid course, presented by Community Partnership of Southern Arizona (CPSA).  This 8-hour program teaches family members, friends, teachers, co-workers, and neighbors how to recognize and help someone who may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis.  Participants learn the signs and symptoms of the most common mental health problems, where and when to get help, and what type of help has been shown to be effective. Depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and self-injury; suicidal behaviors, acute stress reaction after trauma, panic attack, acute psychotic behavior, and drug overdose. Thursdays, September 19 and 26, from 12:30 to 5 p.m.  There is no charge, but registration is requested. To register, contact Sharon Nielsen or call 299-0682.



Great plans are underway for our Open House on Sunday, September 29, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Lots of activities and a tour will give guests an opportunity to meet us and learn about our various ministries. If we want to have guests present, we all need to practice "invitational hospitality." Think about the people you know -- at work, school, children's play groups, or other activities, neighbors, or even family members -- who might find meaning and joy in Christ's beloved community, specifically St. Philip's. Invite them to come with you. Send them to the web site or to our "Good News" publication to begin learning about who we are and the ways we serve each other and the community around us.