The Communicant
The E-Newsletter of Christ Church Cranbrook

This Weekend's Readings
The Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Click HERE to view this weekends readings (Track One).
This Weekend's Preacher
The Reverend Canon Dr. William J. Danaher, Jr.
In This Issue
Update on Stewardship
This Week's Intercessions
Rector's Forum
Parish Choir
Youth Mission Trips
Special Coffee Hour
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Sunday School Outreach
Youth Happening
Item of the Month
ECW Program
High School Hang Out
Women's Spirituality Group
Cub Scouts / Boy Scouts / Venturers
Thursday Night Movie
Fact and Fiction Fun
Thanksgiving Eve Service
Advent Lessons and Carols
Salon Concert
Festival of Gifts
Healing Ministry
Understanding Your Grief Support Group
Advent Family Traditions
Advent by Candlelight
St. Francis Choir
Do You Need a Ride?
All Saint's Resale Shop
Interfaith Question of the Week
Live Streaming
Online & Text Giving
CCC on Facebook
11/12 Thursday
8:30 AM - Morning Prayer
5:00 PM - Cranbrook Choristers Rehearsal
6:00 PM - Hospitality Reception Meeting
7:30 PM - Christ Church Choir/Parish Choir Rehearsal
11/13 Friday
11/14 Saturday
11/15 Sunday
8:00 AM - Holy Eucharist: Rite I
9:00 AM - Rector's Forum
9:00 AM - Middle School Sunday School
9:00 AM - Wreath Sales
10:00 AM - Holy Eucharist: Rite II
10:00 AM - Sunday School
11:15 AM - High School "Hang Out"
11:30 AM - Docent Tour
11:30 AM - Healing Ministry (Order of St. Luke)
11:30 AM - Youth Group 
6:00 PM -  Congregatonal Evensong  
11/16 Monday
8:30 AM - Morning Prayer
7:00 PM - Vestry Meeting
7:00 PM - Cranbrook Choristers Rehearsal  
11/17 Tuesday
8:30 AM - Morning Prayer
11:00 AM - ECW Program
4:00 PM - Columbarium Committee Meeting
5:30 PM - Liturgical Drama Rehearsal
7:30 PM - Shiloah Meditation Group 
11/18 Wednesday
7:30 AM - Bible Study
8:30 AM - Holy Eucharist: Rite II
9:30 AM - Adult Children of Alcoholics Meeting
12:00 PM - Stewarship Committee Meeting
1:00 PM - Altar Guild Executive Board Meeting
6:00 PM - Renew
7:00 PM - Cranbrook Ringers Rehearsal
7:00 PM - Understanding Your Grief Support Group
11/19 Thursday
8:30 AM - Morning Prayer
5:00 PM - Cranbrook Choristers Rehearsal
6:30 PM - Thursday Night Movie
7:30 PM - Cranbrook Choir Rehearsal
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Update on Stewardship
Our focus this year has been "Rejoice Always!" Its inspiration is from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (ESV).

At this point in our stewardship campaign, we have much reason to rejoice: To date, 341 people have pledged an average of $2,918 for a current total of $995,112. Many of these pledges (41) are from new members who have joined us in the past year. For all of this generosity, we are grateful to God and to you.

However, we still have a ways to go to cover the cost of our ministries. What is even more important, we need others to step forward to reach the important goal of 500 pledges, which will represent a little over half of the members of our church.

To frame things according to the church calendar, at this point we have covered our costs through August of 2016. To make it through to Christmas and New Years, we need others to step forward and make their pledges. Please prayerfully consider making your pledge today if you haven't.

From the beginning, we have tried to frame this year's campaign as a spiritual decision, because that is what it surely is. When you pledge, you give what you have so that your life goes with the flow of God's generosity. It doesn't matter how much you pledge so much as that you pledge, so long as that pledge represents what you can authentically afford to give.

One of my favorite pledges this year is from a young man who is ten year's old. His pledge of $12/year throws our average off, to be sure. But his pledge represents a decision to shape his life around God's generosity, and I am proud and grateful for his witness.

Earlier this week, JJ Benkert shared with me another story that we all should ponder prayerfully:
 
A few weeks ago, I sat down for the first time with a darling, seven-year old child at Bound Together, an after-school tutoring and meal program supported by CCC Mission and Outreach. Having just moved into the area, she and her sisters were new to
the program. As we chatted to get to know each other, she smiled in excitement. Her father had bought her a dress just for school. And, even though this soil-spotted dress was far too large for her, she saw no wrinkles. She saw only a "new" dress and loved it!
I told her, "It was beautiful and perfect for school."

Then she surprised me. "Tutor, I have something for you." She reached into her school notebook and pulled out a hand-made envelope.

Upon opening the envelope, out fell a tightly-wrapped dollar bill. As I began to unfold it, she said, "This is for the tutoring."

I smiled and said, "That is so very sweet, but you don't have to pay to be tutored."

"I want to!" she replied.

In that moment, I sensed God smiling on this little child. Tucked together with the dollar bill was a handwritten note addressed to Miss Jane, Director of Bound Together. Looking at this child, I could see the gift of money was something she really wanted to do. "Thank you so very much. I'll be sure to give your note and money to Miss Jane. She'll donate it to Bound Together in your name."

This little child BEAMED! And I was humbled.

The following week I learned that she, her sisters and mother were evicted from their home, becoming homeless and living with one of the children's fathers. I write this story to remind us that if we sometimes wonder why churches ask for our time, money and talent, it's because our Grace-filled giving that supports programs like Bound Together plays a vital role in helping God's children in need. Truly every single dollar given is a blessing.
This Week's Intercessions
The Rector's Forum
Living Religion(s)
Sundays at 9:00 AM in the Hospitality Center

We live, as the saying goes, in interesting times. Religion, once considered a spent force in society, continues to figure in world events as a source of conflict and compassion, of violence and peace, of wounding and healing. Join us for an informative and interesting look at some of the world's religions as we look for the overlaps that exist between them as well as their different claims about God and humanity.

The Rector's forums are recorded and can be viewed by clicking HERE
The Parish Choir
Sunday, November 15 at the 10 AM Service

The Parish Choir is an ensemble for teens and adults that sings alongside the Christ Church Choir several times each year. For these occasions, music selections are intentionally uncomplicated - chosen for singers who are not able to make a weekly commitment to the Christ Church Choir, but would like to be a part of the music program. Singers can join this ensemble whenever they are available.

The rehearsal will be held on Thursday, November 12, from 7:30 until 9:30 PM. On Sunday, November 15, rehearsal will begin at 8:45 AM for the 10:00 AM service. All are welcome to join us!
What? and When? are the Youth Mission Trips?
Find out the details on Sunday, November 15 at 11:30 AM in the Parlor. Pastor Manisha and Jill Bednas will be leading High School Hang Out and talking about the different "Disciple Trips" we have planned for this coming Summer. This is your chance to learn more, ask questions, and/or reserve your spot!

Every CCC Middle and High School youth has an opportunity to go on a mission trip! A mission trip provides an important avenue of spiritual formation for all young people. On mission trips, youth grow in faith through the disciplines of manual labor and simple living in community.  While working for others, youth experience the generosity of those whom they are helping. These week-long trips provide a way to experience God that has lasting impact on a young person's life.
CCC is offering four mission trips for youth:

*    June 27-July 4, 2016: Dominican Republic
*    July 4- 11, 2016: Dominican Republic
*    July 17- 23, 2016: Chicago
*    August 7-12, 2016: Mission: Possible! In Detroit

Current 6th and 7th graders are eligible for the Detroit trip. Current 8th graders through college students may go on any trip.  Trips range in cost from approximately $150 to $2,000, including transportation. Each student can receive help in raising funds. This year, we are delighted to be partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan and local churches to make these trips possible.

If you are interested in the Dominican Republic trips, speak to Pastor Manisha or visit http://www.edomi.org/yaya/camp-compassion/ to secure a spot and place a deposit.  The trips will fill up fast. 

Questions: contact Pastor Manisha (mdostert@christchurchcranbrook.org) or Jill Bednas (jbednas@christchurchcranbrook.org)
You're Invited ~ Special Coffee Hour
Sunday, November 15 - 11:15 AM

ONE BREAD Ministry is hosting a special coffee hour following the 10 AM church service on Sunday, November 15. Come and fellowship with OB Ambassadors and Newcomers as we gather together to enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of artisan bread from the Give Thanks Bakery. Please join us as we get to know each other better.

"Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body,
for we all partake of the one bread." Corinthians 10:17
Prayer Shawl Ministry
The Prayer Shawl Ministry would like you to mark your calendars for the annual Knit Sale Extravaganza at CCC. We will be in St. Dunstan's Café on two Sundays, November 15 and 22, during Coffee Hours. A variety of hand made items including hats, scarves, mittens,ornaments, baby sweaters booties, and blankets, will be available. Think Christmas, Festival of Gifts, and Outreach Item on the Month. All of the proceeds go to outreach programs supported by Christ Church Cranbrook. Last year the Prayer Shawl Ministry was able to make contributions to Bound Together, Wellspring, The Mayson Scholarship Foundation, and the Boulevard Harambee.

It is never to late to join the Prayer Shawl Ministry. Experienced knitters and those who wish to learn are welcome. Our next meeting is Monday, November 9, from 12:00-2:00 PM. in Rooms 201-202.
What a wonderful God we have-he is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the one who so wonderfully comforts and strengthens us in our hardships and trials. And why does he do this? So that when others are troubled, needing our sympathy and encouragement, we can pass on to them this same help and comfort God has given us. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
Sunday School Outreach
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Pennies for Piggies

In November and December we will collect a special offering during Sunday School for the Episcopal Relief and Development organization to help impoverished families make a living by raising pigs. Go "Hog Wild" and help the Sunday School with your spare change.
 
Youth Happening
Happening #17, November 13-15 at Christ Church, Grosse Pointe

Happening is a retreat weekend "for youth" "by youth" that allows young people (grades 9-12) to explore their relationships with Jesus, each other and the world.

Concentrating closely on the person and teachings of Jesus Christ, Happening gives those who attend the desire to understand and serve the church. Happening begins on a Friday at 6 p.m. and goes until 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Participants are expected to be at Happening the entire time. The Dioceses of Michigan and Eastern Michigan share in this ministry for young people. Christ Church, Grosse Pointe hosts the event. Click HERE for more information, a downloadable flyer and to register.
Item of the Month
Throughout the month of November we will acknowledge and give thanks for our abundance and for our ability to share gifts with all of God's creation. Parishioners are encouraged to bring warm hats, mittens, scarves, gloves and blankets to be distributed to the Baldwin Center to help the needy fend off the cold winter. Donations are needed for adults and children. Please be generous and think of those whom these warm items would be a significant and meaningful gift. Kindly place your donations in the bins located in the Narthex and at the South Entrance. Thank you for supporting this worthy cause.
Episcopal Church Women
Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at 11:00 AM

The highly respected travel couple, Jim and Py Wolfe, returns with commentary on a newsworthy area - TURKEY: CROSSROADS OF THE WORLD.  The slide presentation will include their extensive travels of Greek and  Roman sites in Insatanbul, Antalia, and other areas along the Mediterranean coast, including biblical sites where St. Paul establishd churches. The places are ancient, the talk will be timely.  All are welcome to attend this presentation in the Hospitality Center. If you wish to stay for lunch afterwards, please contact the church office at 248.644.5210 to RSVP.
High School Hang Out
An opportunity for High Schoolers to hang out and connect with their peers and make a connection. If you are in 9th - 12th grade come check it out, come to the parlor immediately following church service. This is a new location. The parlor is the room straight ahead of you, as you exit the church at the end of the hallway, on your way to Guild Hall. Youth Leaders will be there to greet you: Pastor Manisha, Jill Bednas, David & Joan Jensen,or Michael & Maryilyn Roche. This is sort of High School coffee hour with guided conversation.
Women's Spirituality Group
Women's Spirituality Group (WSG) on Fridays from noon to 1 PM.  WSG is a way for women to develop a rhythm to their spiritual life by living in "seasons." We are in the season of the Scriptures. Pastor Manisha is leading a study on Galatians, a book in the Bible with a razor-sharp focus on Christ's work of setting humans free. Come for any or all sessions through December 18. Brown bag lunch and fellowship begins at 11:30 AM in Room 201-202. All are welcome!
Cub Scouts / Boy Scouts / Venturers
A religious education program is being offered at Christ Church Cranbrook to encourage the spiritual growth of youth. This Religious Emblem Program is recognized by the Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the USA. The programs offered are: God & Me (grades 1 - 3), God & Family (grades 4 - 5), God & Church (grades 6 - 8) and God & Life (grades 9 - 12). Upon completing the program, a scout is awarded the religious emblem medal suitable for uniform wear. For registration and additional information, contact Scott Bednas at 313.686.1020, or email: sbednas@umich.edu
Thursday Night Movie
"Atonement" 2007
November 19, 6:30 PM, Hospitality Center

Based on the best-selling British romance novel by Ian McEwan, this drama/mystery portrays a 13 year old who accuses her older sister's lover of a crime he did not commit. Stars include James McAvoy, Keira Knightley and Vanessa Redgrave. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Score, and was nominated for six others, including Best Picture. Mike Frank will lead the discussion of this interesting, thought provoking and fabulous movie.
Fact and Fiction Fun
Fact and Fiction Fun will meet again on Monday, November 30, 2015 from 7:30 pm to 9:00 PM in the Conference Room at Christ Church Cranbrook.  The selection for this  month is Chaucer's Tale: 1386 and the Road to Canterbury by Paul Strohm. In addition to reading the book, we will also read one of the Canterbury Tales: The Wife of Bath, which can be Googled and obtained online. Please come and join in the discussion.
 
At the beginning of 1386, Geoffrey Chaucer-lauded today as the father of English literature-was a middle-aged Londoner with a modest bureaucratic post; his literary successes had been confined to a small audience of intimate friends. But by year's end, he was swept up in a series of disastrous events that would ultimately leave him jobless, homeless, separated from his wife, and exiled in the countryside of Kent. Unbroken by these worldly reversals, Chaucer pursued a new life in art.  In this highly readable social history, Paul Strohm, one of the finest medievalists of our time, vividly recreates the bustle of everyday life in fourteenth-century London while he unveils the fascinating story behind Chaucer's journey from personal crisis to rebirth as the immortal poet of The Canterbury Tales. In addition to reading the book, we will also read one of the Canterbury Tales: The Wife of Bath, which can be Googled and obtained online. 
Thanksgiving Eve Service
Start a new family tradition! Join us Wednesday November 25 at 7 PM for our Thanksgiving service. After the service join us for ice cream and pumpkin pie. Come, let us give Thanks to the Lord our God! Save the Date for our next Children and Youth Liturgical Drama at the Thanksgiving service. We have many silent and speaking roles for children Kindergarten through High School. Middle and High Schoolers are needed for leadership positions. Please RSVP for the casting call to Jessica Neeper at 248.506.1177 or email jneeper@christchurchcranbrook.org

Performance: Thanksgiving Eve, November 25, 7 PM.
Rehearsals: Tuesdays in November 17 and 24 at 5:30-7:30 PM.
Pizza dinner will be served at rehearsals.
Attendance at all rehearsals is encouraged
Advent Lessons and Carols
Sunday, December 6 at 6 PM, Pre-Service music at 5:30 PM

Join us for a service of Advent Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 6 at 6:00 PM. A pre-service recital of music with baroque strings will begin at 5:30 PM. Our God in the City preacher will be Mary McLaren Honsel, the Executive Director of Crossroads of Michigan. All are welcome!
Salon Concert and High Tea
Wednesday, December 9 at 4 PM

A beloved tradition at Christ Church Cranbrook, these jazz flavored musical presentations are offered with Tea and Hors d'oeuvres in the Guild Hall. Join us for what has become an annual holiday tradition by welcoming back harp trio, Christa Grix Trio - Chrisa Grix, harp, Kurt Krahnke, bass, and Pete Siers, percussion. Free-will offering. All are welcome!
Festival of Gifts
A long-standing Christ Church Cranbrook tradition continues.

On Saturday, December 5 (5:00 PM) and Sunday, December 6 (10:00 AM), the Acolyte Corps of Christ Church Cranbrook will present a long-standing parish tradition - the Festival of Gifts - telling and acting out the Christmas story. The highlight of this special event is the live nativity - complete with real animals - in St. Paul's Chapel. Parishioners are invited/encouraged to bring unwrapped gifts, which will be collected by various service agencies in southeast Michigan. They are:
  • Baldwin Center
  • Bound Together
  • Butzel Family Center
  • Children's Aid Society of Detroit
  • Crossroads for Youth
  • Crossroads of Michigan
  • Easter Seals
  • Federation of Youth Services
  • Lutheran Social Services of Michigan
  • Matrix Human Services
  • Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
  • Oakland County Children's Village
  • Oakland Family Services
These agencies will "shop" on Monday, December 7 for those in need - at-risk, low-income youth and young adults, ages newborn to 21. Items requested include, but are not limited to cold weather gear, college-themed hoodies (teen/adult sizes), infant/toddler clothing, toys, board games, card games, arts and crafts, age appropriate books, puzzles, action figures, dolls and sporting good items.
Healing Ministry
Are you interested in joining our Healing Ministry?  Members of Christ Church Cranbrook Healing Ministry are embarking on a new study for induction into the Order of St. Luke. The International Order of St. Luke the Physician is made up of clergy, health professionals, and lay people who feel called to make Jesus' ministry of healing a ministry they will engage in at their respective churches. Our brown bag studies will take place on Sunday from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM on November 15, November 22, December 6, January 11, January 24, and February 7.  We welcome those from other Christian churches who want to discern their call to healing ministry. Please contact the Reverend Joyce Matthews if you are interested at jmatthews@christchurchcranbrook.org or 248.644.5210, Ext. 15.
Understanding  Your Grief Support Group
Experiencing the death of someone you love may be one of the most difficult things you have ever done. Understanding your grief describes ten touchstones that are essential physical, emotional, cognitive, social and spiritual actions for you to take to help yourself heal. The group will meet at 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM on: November 18 (Conference Room) and December 2 (Room 201-202). To register please contact the Reverend Joyce Matthews at jmatthews@christchurchcranbrook.org or 248.644.5120, Ext. 15.
Advent Family Fair
CCC will host the author and illustrators of The Advent Book, an heirloom keepsake book by Jack and Kathryn Stockman, during the Advent Family Fair on November 29 at 11:30 AM in the Hospitality Center. Jack and Kathryn will visit with parents and discuss Advent and other family traditions. This special coffee hour will include advent activities for the children while the parents visit with the author.

The Advent Book has sold over 65,000 copies worldwide. There will be a personalized book signing afterwards for those who wish to purchase it as part of a new family tradition or as a gift to loved ones.
Advent by Candlelight
Advent by Candlelight is a moment of quiet in the chaos that Christmas can so easily become. Many women describe it as the one thing they do for themselves during the holiday season - an evening of delicious food, warm fellowship, and thoughtful worship. It's a special holiday gift to our sisters, our mothers, our friends and ourselves and believe it or not, it's right around the corner. Mark your calendar for Monday, December 7th. All women are welcome! If you would like to hostess a table this year or if you would like to be our guest, just let us know! You may sign up to hostess a table or attend at the Advent by Candlelight by clicking HERE.  

No special invitation is required. We hope you'll add this special evening to your holiday calendar. Reserve your spot by signing up at SignUpGenius site or with Mandy Andrews (mandycheesecake@yahoo.com) or Hillary Orlowski (hillaryjane@hotmail.com) by November 27.
As part of this event, we are collecting feminine supplies for Crossroads of Michigan.  Please consider making a donation to support this outreach ministry.

Saint Francis Children's Choir
St. Francis Choir meets on Sundays following the 10 AM Service! All children, 4 years old to second grade, are welcome and encouraged to join the St. Francis Choir and experience the joy of choral singing. Kate Bublitz will direct the choir again this year. Rehearsals are held in the Choir Room immediately following Sunday's 10:00 AM service. For more information contact Kate at kate.bublitz@hotmail.com.
Do You Need a Ride to Church?
Do you or someone you know need a ride to the 10:00 AM service on Sundays? We now have a shuttle running from Fox Run retirement community in Novi to CCC every Sunday for the 10:00 AM service.  The shuttle leaves Fox Run at 9:15 AM and will make stops between there and Christ Church Cranbrook. If you or someone you know lives in Farmington Hills, W. Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, Beverly Hills or Birmingham and would like a ride to church, please contact Mr. Don Canavesio at 586.747.6587.

If a ride is needed, you need to contact Don by Saturday at Noon for a ride for the next day. Seating is limited so rides are on a first come-first served basis. There is no charge for this service.
Old Rectory Resale Shop at All Saints', Pontiac
The Old Rectory Resale Shop at All Saints' Pontiac has new hours and all new stock.  Fridays & Saturdays 10-2. All new, but gently used, fall and winter clothes, kitchen and decorating items, plus a huge stock of Christmas decorating items, at fabulous prices. The Produce Market is right next door, open Saturdays 10-2, with fresh fruits and vegetables at near wholesale prices. Our Book Nook has thousands of gently read titles for adults and children, Saturdays 10-12. Come by to shop or to volunteer. New help is always welcome for these major ministries of All Saints'. Pike & Exchange Sts., west of Woodward, between Orchard Lake and M-59.  Check out our new website  www.allsaintspontiac.org  or Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/oldrectoryresaleshop.
Interfaith Question of the Week
As a way of learning about our neighbors of different faith traditions, we will be providing a link to the Question of the Week on the InterFaith Leadership Council (IFLC) of Metro Detroit's website. Please feel free to submit our own questions to IFLC for consideration to be featured.
 
              
The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit is a faith-based civic organization made up of visionary religious and lay leaders of many faiths whose shared values compel them to work toward a community that lives together in harmony.
 
Our Goals:

BRING TOGETHER, encourage and nurture interfaith groups and networks

SUPPORT CONCILIATION between and among religious groups as well as the community at large through active conflict resolution

PROMOTE INTERFAITH EDUCATION so that the metropolitan Detroit community can benefit from the synergies and creative benefits that knowledge and understanding can provide.
CCC Services Live Streamed
Christ Church Cranbrook is now live streaming our 10:00 AM Sunday service!  No matter where you are you don't have to miss a service. To view services, please click HERE. Videos of previous services are archived on this page as well.
Online and Text Giving - It's Easy!

Contributions can now be made online and by text messaging.  Please click HERE and see how quick and easy it is. 

We invite you to consider our new electronic "Online Giving" program as a way to automate your donations to Christ Church Cranbrook. Read more  

 

We encourage you to consider these new giving opportunities.

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