News from the Churches of Southern Virginia
Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia                      September 29, 2015

Volunteers from St. Stephen's, Newport News join with other community volunteers to build a Habitat for Humanity home in their neighborhood.
"Blessings to go" for neighborhood pets

On Sunday, Oct. 4 at 11 a.m., Ascension, Norfolk, will hold their annual Blessing of the Animals service under the giant magnolia tree in front of the church. But this year they'll also be giving out "Blessings to Go" for the neighborhood pets from 12:30 to 2 p.m. on the corner of Newport Avenue and Talbot Hall Road. Modeled on "Ashes to Go", they will offer a prayer and blessing for furry family members of folks in the neighborhood. The Blessing of the Animals service will include an EYC service project collecting items for Norfolk Animal Care Center.  
Johns Memorial to welcome time-certain rector

Johns Memorial, Farmville, will welcome the Very Rev. Nancy Meck, as time-certain rector. They invite you to join them for the Renewal of Ministry and Welcoming of Priest service on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 3:30 p.m. Johns Memorial is located at 400 High Street, Farmville. Call 434-392-5695 for more information.
Community Cafe program resumes at St. Martin's, Williamsburg

Are you 60 or better? Get ready for fun and information! Community Cafe is back! The free, monthly program hosted by St. Martin's, Williamsburg gets started Thursday, Oct. 1 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. with "Stay Balanced and Relaxed: A Mind-Body Connection." If you haven't tried Tai Chi before, here's your chance! Dr. Stan Rockwell, will guide us through simple exercises while describing the mind and body benefits of this soothing activity. We will also have a local physical therapist helping us to maintain our balance fitness as a way to avoid falls. Come dressed to move and join in the fun; or just watch and get to know some new folks. For more information contact: Martha@stmartinswmbg.org or 757-229-1111. This event is free and open to Williamsburg community residents 60 or better. Caregivers are welcome. St. Martin's is located at 1333 Jamestown Rd., Williamsburg.
Icon writing workshop Nov. 9-13

Redeemer, Midlothian, will hold a week-long workshop presented by the venerated Prosopon School of Iconography and Iconology, November 9-13.  
 
The Prosopon School of Iconology introduces students to the practice and theory of ancient Christian art of icon-writing in the Byzantine-Russian tradition. The iconographer attempts to produce icons reflecting the same state of inner, contemplative depth evident in the greatest examples of that tradition through refinement of artistic nuance and attention to the iconographic canon and principles. As is fitting to the icon's sacred function, only natural materials are used: wood panels treated with natural ground gesso, genuine gold leaf applied by the bole method, egg tempera using ground pigments, and linseed oil finish. The iconographic method of the Prosopon School is characterized by a multi-step process in which the succession of steps is concrete and definite. Although striving for a high artistic level, the focus of the icon-writer is on personal spiritual discipline and growth within the guidelines of Orthodox Church teachings. In accordance with the Orthodox Church's teaching that Icons are the 'Gospel in light and color', the Prosopon School welcomes inquiring students from all backgrounds, skill level and faiths.
 
Each day of the workshop the students will begin with prayers at 9 a.m. followed by studio time until 5 p.m. with a break for lunch. The instructor for the course will be Rev Igumen Father Mefodii from St Maximos the Confessor Skete in Palmyra, Virginia. As is the tradition at the Prosopon School, all those writing their first icon will write the icon of the Archangel Michael. The cost of the workshop is $675, which includes all materials for producing one icon. For more information on reserving a workshop spot ($100 non-refundable deposit required), please contact Redeemer at 804-379-8899 or  episcopalredeemer@gmail.com.
Traditional Fall Oyster Roast at Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk

Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk, invites you to a traditional fall Oyster Roast, featuring BBQ, fried chicken, chowder, fixings, and, of course, oysters!  On Saturday, October 17 from 5 to 8 p.m., we will gather on the Church lawn for a great evening.  Come early and peruse the wonderful Stockley Gardens Arts Festival across the street, or drop in the church for a tour.  $30 tickets can be purchased from the Church Office or on the day. All proceeds benefit the Choir Tour Fund.
Bus trip to historic Charlottesville on Oct. 3

St. Paul's, Norfolk, is sponsoring a bus trip to Charlottesville, Virginia on October 3. The cost is $75 which includes a buffet lunch at historic Michie Tavern, a tour of the Barboursville Winery and ruins of Governor Barbour's home, and finally a tour of historic Montpelier, home of President James Madison and his wife Dolly. The bus will leave at 8 a.m. from St. Paul's, 201 St. Paul's Boulevard, Norfolk, and return at 7 p.m. Contact the parish office at 757-627-4353 or aworley@stpaulsnorfolk.org, or Warren Chauncey at 757-287-3750 for registration information.
St. Matthias' Cultural Series kicks off 2015-2016 season with acoustic soloist Timothy Seaman

St. Matthias', Midlothian, kicks off the 2015-2016 Cultural Series with a concert by acoustic soloist Timothy Seaman on Sunday, October 18, 4:00 p.m. Works by potters Carren Clarke-McAdoo and Nga Nguyen-Weaver of Woodland Heights Studio. The concert is open to the public, donations are appreciated. A reception will follow. 
 
Acoustic soloist Timothy Seaman brings together an eclectic blend of music styles unlike any other: sometimes the deep voice of his four-octave extended-range hammered dulcimer takes on the heart of a Chopin ballade, and at other times the festivity of an old-time mountain dance or a glistening contemporary interpretation of a whitewater canoe ride or a highland hike among fir trees. His bamboo or silver flute improvisations and passionate folk renditions leave the air glowing with meaning --- and then the bowed psaltery or the crafted vocal carries one's mood into yet another exploration.
 
A specialist in Virginia themes, nature, parks, Celtic roots and folk hymns, Timothy has since 1978 produced or co-produced nineteen recordings, including the well-received Here on This Ridge, for Shenandoah National Park, Celebration of Centuries, for his home town Williamsburg's tri-centennial, Sycamore Rapids, featuring the hammered dulcimer in "adventures out among the trees of Virginia's Parks and Forests," Virginia Wildlife, for the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Jamestown: On the Edge of a Vast Continent, for the 400th commemoration, Cleansing Fountain, folk hymn interpretations for the Blue Ridge Parkway, a set of lyrical melodies called Celtic Airs, and the recent release for the Civil War Sesquicentennial entitled Tenting on the Old Camp Ground.
 
St. Matthias (Midlothian) is located at 11300 W. Huguenot Road, Midlothian, VA 23113. For more information, you may call John A. Murdock at 804/272-8588, ext. 103, or email: jamurdock@stmatmidlo.com.
 
Future Dates to Remember
November 22 - Bob Hallahan Jazz Quintet (4:00 PM)
December 20 - Festival of Lessons & Carols (10:00 AM)
April 24 - David Fisk, piano, and Anne O'Byrne, soprano (4:00 PM)
May - Richmond Symphony Ensemble (to be announced) (4:00 PM)
Emmanuel, Virginia Beach, remembers the Battle of Kempe's Landing 

Emmanuel, Virginia Beach, will host a memorial reenactment of the first battle of the American Revolutionary war on Virginia soil and where the first Virginians died in the American Revolution. The Battle of Kempe's Landing occurred on November 15, 1775 on the site where Emmanuel is now located. Militia companies from Princess Anne County in the Province of Virginia assembled at Kempe's Landing to counter British troops under the command of Virginia's last colonial governor, John Murray, Lord Dunmore, that had landed at nearby Great Bridge.

The 240th anniversary celebration of the battle will be held on the grounds of Emmanuel on November 14, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a commemoration by the Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution. The Fife and Drums of Yorktown will perform. The battle and Lord Dunmore's speech will be reenacted, and there will be a proclamation by City of Virginia Beach officials.

This free event is open to the public and there will be food and refreshments for sale. Remember to bring a lawn chair as the entire event is outdoors. Contact event co-chairs Martha Womble and James Carver for more information, 757-499-1271 or eec@emmanuelvb.org. Emmanuel Episcopal Church is located at 5181 Singleton Way, Virginia Beach.
How Great Thy Art - an invitation to artists in Southern Virginia  

Labor Day has passed, school has started, and it's time to look forward to Old Donation, Virginia Beach, (ODEC's) next venue to show and sell artwork.  On December 6 from 3 to 5 p.m., the Feast Day of Saint Nicholas, ODEC is hosting a religious themed art show and sale, "How Great Thy Art!",  just in time for the Christmas gift buying season. ODEC is inviting artists in the Diocese of Southern Virginia to join us for this event using whatever medium you choose. 
 
The show will be held in the Parish Hall from 3 to 5 p.m. Punch and cookies and wine and cheese will be served to those attending and there will be door prizes.  Following the art show, an Advent Lessons and Carols service will be held at 5 p.m. in the historic church. 
 
Religious themes include more than crosses and angels. Themes can include fish, birds, water, shells, stars, light, saints (i.e. St. Nicholas, NOT Santa Claus), flowers, fruits, trees, animals, rainbows, butterflies, eggs, bread and wine/Eucharist, chalices, calligraphy, Christmas and other cards, vestments, scriptures, bible stories, and more.
 
There will be limited space for 20 tables (4' - 6' tables only), which ODEC will provide on a first come, first serve basis. We are not charging artists for the tables/space, but, we are asking all artists to make a tax deductible donation to the ODEC Rector's Discretionary Fund of 25% of their sales. Also, we welcome a piece of your art for a door prize donation. If you are interested in participating as an artist, please contact Chris Randall, 757-499-7184 or randallbobchris@verizon.net or Boo Burroughs at 757-431-9566 or 2goofy2@cox.net.
 
Everyone in the diocese is invited to come and purchase unique Christmas gifts from our talented artists and then join us for Advent Lessons and Carols at 5 p.m. Admission to the show will be one canned good to support the Feed My Lambs food pantry at the Mission of the Holy Spirit. For each canned good you bring, and for each purchase you make from the artists, you will receive one raffle ticket for a door prize drawing.
 
Upcoming Events   

Bible Study: Development of the Four Gospels - Sept. 30 & Oct. 7, 7:00 p.m., St. Barnabas', Richmond. Please bring a dessert to share. For more information call the church at 804-275-1648
5155 Iron Bridge Road, North Chesterfield. 

First Friday Film Forum - Oct. 2, 7:00 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk.  On the First Friday of the month we will gather at Christ and St. Luke's to watch a movie, eat popcorn, and have a free-flowing discussion of the Christian, spiritual, and theological themes of the film, and how they may inform or challenge our own faith. The October film is Babette's Feast.  Free and all are welcome.

2nd Annual Pansy and Pumpkin Sale - Oct. 3 & 4, Eastern Shore Chapel, Virginia Beach. This is a major fundraiser for the Pantry food budget and will also include a Canned Food Labyrinth to supply the pantry with non-perishable food.
Beautiful pansies, pumpkins and mums from local growers will be available for sale on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, October 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The spectacular canned food labyrinth will again be displayed in the center grassy island at the church. This full-sized labyrinth, outlined in chalk, awaits your donations of canned food to fill in the chalk lines. Meditation and prayer stations line the labyrinth pathways. We encourage you to read about hunger and poverty in our community at each station, and then to pray for our neighbors in need. Please bring canned food to line the labyrinth. Encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same. Last year we collected more than 500 food items. Let's double that this year! Eastern Shore Chapel is located at 2020 Laskin Road in Virginia Beach. Click here for a brochure. Please contact Kay O'Reilly at 757-428-6763 or koreilly@easternshorechapel.org for more information.

Simply Worship music service - Oct. 3, 7 p.m., Our Saviour, Midlothian. The purpose of the service is to provide an evening to "come as we are" and allow God to touch our hearts, minds and souls through music. All are welcome to attend - including children. Bring your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors! Following the service, there will be refreshments and good conversation. Simply Worship also includes "Giving Back" - this month's service will benefit Feed 23112, a food pantry for residents of the 23112 zip code. Items sought for donation include canned meats and protein (such as canned tuna or chicken); canned fruit; grains, boxed pasta and sauces (including boxed cereals, oatmeal, boxed rice, spaghetti and sauce); and miscellaneous items (including peanut butter and jelly, paper goods and personal grooming items).
Follow Our Saviour on Facebook for dates of upcoming Simply Worship services.  

Blessing of the Animals - Oct. 4, 3:00 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's Norfolk.  Join us for this special service where each animal will receive an individual blessing. The Blessing will begin outside in the Lychgate Garden and then move inside the Church for the blessing. All species are welcome, but we do ask that they be either on a leash or in a carrier for safety's sake. For those animals unable to travel, or for companions who have died, we are happy to say a symbolic blessing over a photo or other remembrance. For more information, please contact the Church office at 757-627-5665.

Blessing of the Pets - Oct. 4, 4 p.m., St. Matthias', Midlothian. In celebration of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi St. Matthias, Midlothian will have a pet parade and blessing of the animals on Sunday, October 4.  Our celebration of St. Francis will begin in the Barking Lot.

The Kindergarten Kackle - Oct. 6. 5:30 p.m., St. Andrew's School, Newport News. How does pre-kindergarten affect my child's kindergarten experience? What will my child learn in pre-k and kindergarten? How will the information be taught? How does this build a foundation for my child's future? St. Andrew's School invites you to join them for The Kindergarten Kackle to learn the answers to these questions and many more. Call 757-596-6261 or to to
www.standrewsepiscopalschool.com for more information.   

Annual Fall Yard Sale - Oct. 10, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Epiphany, Norfolk.
Church of the Epiphany, 1530 Lafayette Blvd, Norfolk, will hold its annual Fall Yard Sale on Saturday, Oct. 10th. As always there will be books, plants, baked goods, holiday decor, small appliances, tools, jewelry, linens, clothing and miscellaneous items. Breakfast and lunch can be purchased. Rain or shine. Come browse, relax and shop. 

9th Annual Oktoberfestival - Oct. 10, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., St. Stephen's, Newport News. The Festival includes BBQ and fixings, adult beverages (beer and wine), antique car show, yard sale, book sale, bake sale, live bands, kids' activities (petting zoo, pony rides, bounce house, and magic show), and a silent auction. Admission is free, however, tickets are necessary for the food and beverages. Tickets: Adults, $10, Students, $8, and kids under 12, $5. The church is located at 372 Hiden Boulevard, Newport News. Proceeds will go to Thrive Peninsula and the CNU Canterbury Club.

Anglicanism 101 (Or How to be a Good Episcopalian and a Christian at the same time) - Oct. 11 through Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m., Christ the King, Tabb. The Rev. Jack Lynch will teach a series of classes for those who wish to learn more about Christianity in the Anglican tradition. The course will be especially helpful for Inquirers  and  Adults who wish to be Baptized, Confirmed, or Received into the Episcopal Church. Classes will be held at Christ the King on Sunday evenings at 5:30 p.m. beginning on October 11 and will run through November 15. Holy Baptism will be administered on Christ the King Sunday (Nov.22) with Confirmation in late January. Please RSVP to ctkrector@aol.com or by leaving a message at  757-865-7227.

Dinner & Movie Night - Oct. 13, 6:00 p.m., St. Barnabas', Richmond. Dinner prepared by the St. Barnabas' Choir. (Suggested donation for the dinner $12) The movie, Where Hope Grows, was directed by Chris Dowling and is a tale of a friendship between a washed up baseball player and a grocery worker with Down syndrome. It is rated PG-13. Please contact David Sachs 804-222-2494 or email: Psalm100Pesach@comcast.net to RSVP or for additional information. St. Barnabas' is located at 5155 Iron Bridge Road, North Chesterfield.

Your Spiritual Journey and the Ox-Herding Pictures - Oct. 15, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Holy Apostles, Virginia Beach. Learn more about the stages of the spiritual journey and how to grow closer to our loving God. Fr. William Meninger, OCSO, explains how the spiritual journey can be seen symbolically through the "The Ten Ox Herding Pictures," a collection of stories and pictures originating in 12th century China. The series illustrate the stages of a practitioner's progress toward enlightenment, revealing a remarkable likeness to the Christian journey.
Fr. William Meninger, OCSO, is a Trappist monk, ecumenist, author, retreat director and master teacher. In 1974 he originated the workshop on Contemplative Meditation (later known as Centering Prayer) which he now teaches worldwide along with programs on Forgiveness, the Enneagram, Sacred Scriptures, Julian of Norwich and Prayer. For more information contact the church office, 757-427-0963 or admin@holyapostlesvb.org. Registration fee is $10. Holy Apostles is located at 1593 Lynnhaven Parkway, Virginia Beach.

Pumpkin Palooza - Oct. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Andrew's School, Newport News. Bring the whole family - it's perfect for all ages! the day includes games and fun, balloon artist, face painting, market and food vendors, cupcake walk and petting zoo. Get $1 off one admission with a canned food donation. St. Andrew's is located at 45 Main Street, Newport News. Call 757-596-6261 or go to www.standrewsepiscopalschool.com/pumpkin-palooza for more information. 

Oyster Roast - Oct. 17, 5 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. Come and enjoy a traditional Oyster Roast on the Church lawn, featuring oysters, traditional BBQ, fried chicken, and more!  Arrive early to peruse the Stockley Gardens Arts Festival happening across the street.  All proceeds benefit the 2016 Choir Tour to England.  For ticket information, please call 757-627-5665. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org.

Fall Pancake Supper & Bazaar - Oct. 18, 4 to 7 p.m., Emmanuel, Jenkins Bridge. Adults $8, children $4 (ages 6-12). Eat-in or carry out. Call 757-824-5043 for info & tickets. Emmanuel is located at 27405 Horsey Rd., Jenkins Bridge.   

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Choral Matins and Eucharist for St. Luke's Day - Oct. 18, 10:15  a.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. We celebrate our Patronal Feast with a special service of Choral Matins (Morning Prayer) and Eucharist.  The ancient hymn of praise Te Deum will be sung, as well as Benjamin Britten's joyful Jubilate Deo. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org.  

The Faux Fashion Show - Oct. 24, 12 to 2 p.m., St. Francis', Virginia Beach. The Faux Fashion Show at St. Francis should provide lots of laughs, delicious food and fellowship for all in attendance. Ladies, leave hubby at home since this is a ladies only event. Advance ticket tickets: $15.00. At the door: $17.50. Tickets may be mailed out by sending a check payable to St. Francis with memo "ECW" before October 16 to St. Francis Episcopal Church, 509 S. Rosemont Rd., Virginia Beach, 23452. Tickets are also available at the church office: Mon-Fri, 9 am to PM. Please call ahead. 757-340-6884.
Proceeds benefit ECW outreach.

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Norfolk Chamber Consort - Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. The Norfolk Chamber Consort under the direction of Andrey Kasparov and Oksana Lutsyshyn present "The Apocryphal J.S.", featuring cantatas formerly attributed to J.S. Bach but now discovered to be written by other old masters. Guest artists include tenor Brian Nedvin and flautist Bokyung Kim.  Keyboard works performed by Oksana Lutsyshyn and Kevin Kwan round out the program.  A pre-concert talk by Andrey Kasparov will begin at 7:15pm.  Tickets at the door $25, Students $10. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org. 

Ecumenical Retreat - Oct. 31, 9 a.m., Holy Apostles, Virginia Beach. Dr. Mitzi Budde will be the speaker at the Church of the Holy  Apostles retreat. Dr. Budde is Professor and Chief Librarian at Virginia Theological Seminary. She completed her Doctor of Ministry in Ecumenism and Reconciliation at Wesley Theological Seminary where she focused on ecumenical formation in denominational theological
seminaries. Dr. Budde also earned a M.A. in Religion from Lutheran Theological Southern
Seminary in Columbia, South Carolina. The retreat is open to all. There is a $10.00 fee for
non-members. Morning refreshments will begin at 9:00 a.m. and lunch is provided. On Sunday, November 1, Dr. Budde will be present for the 38th Anniversary of this community of
Episcopalians and Roman Catholics. The church is located at 1593 Lynnhaven Parkway in the
Green Run section of Virginia Beach.

Silent Suffering: Living with Depression and Living with Those Living with Depression - Nov. 7, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., St. John's, Chester. Dr. Douglas Thorpe, Executive Director of The Virginia Institute for Pastoral Care, will facilitate a presentation and discussion on depression. For more information, contact the Rev. Dale Custer, rdalecuster@gmail.com.

St. George's Annual Bazaar - Nov. 7, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., St. George's, Newport News. Arts and Crafts, Bake Sale, Jewelry, Used Books, White Elephant and much more. Lunch is available to purchase. St. George's is located at 15446 Warwick Blvd., Newport News. Call 757-877-0088 for more information.

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Remembrance Sunday - Nov. 8, 10:15 a.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. As part of our Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, portions of Maurice Duruflé's sublime Requiem will be sung, as well as a gorgeous setting of Amazing Grace by contemporary British composer Will Todd. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org.  

Fall Marketplace & Estate Sale - Nov. 11, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Barnabas', Richmond. Handmade crafts, jewelry, bake sale, books, estate items, college wreaths, raffles. Continental Breakfast until 11:00 a.m. Hot dogs on the grill & chips at 11:00 a.m. Vendor tables are available for rent at $25 each. Call Linda Ambler 804-745-5998. St. Barnabas' is located at 5155 Iron Bridge Road, North Chesterfield.

Welcome Home Initiative: Retreat for War Zone Veterans - Nov. 12-14, Galilee, Virginia Beach. The Rev. Nigel Mumford of By His Wounds, Inc., will be hosting the Welcome Home Initiative retreat program for war-zone veterans who suffer from post traumatic stress or moral injury. This program offers a safe-haven for veterans to tell their story and receive inner healing. Rev. Mumford and the Welcome Home Initiative team, are all veterans who have served. Thanks to the people, who support this 501c3 non-profit organization, the program is offered free of charge for a veteran and spouse to attend. Hotel accommodations and meals are provided. On Sat. Nov. 14 at 10:30 a.m., the public is invited to come to the closing ceremony to show appreciation to these veterans who risked their lives for us. An opportunity to say "thank you" "welcome home!"  Please join us! Galilee is located at 3928 Pacific Ave. Virginia Beach. To learn more about this ministry, visit the By His Wounds, Inc. website,
www.byhiswoundsministry.org. 

Old Donation 81st Annual Oyster Roast & Fall Festival - Nov. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Old Donation, Virginia Beach. The 81st Annual Oyster Roast and Fall Festival is capitalizing on the interest in pairing oysters with wine by adding Chardonnay from Chatham Vineyards on the Eastern Shore and Foggy Ridge Cider from near the Blue Ridge Mountains to its Oyster Pairing sessions. Guided by Chuck Macin, of Uncle Chuck's Seafood, guests will feast on thirteen local oysters including oysters from the Eastern Shore. Tickets are $40, and also include a commemorative glass and oyster ornament. Additionally the traditional lunch fare including Brunswick stew, barbecue, raw and roasted oysters will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. In the Bake Room, attendee's appetite for DIY creations will be satisfied by the addition of seasonal preserves including the famous Old Donation pickles, watermelon rind, dilly beans, salsa and corn relish. This year's silent auction will be enhanced by the opportunity for someone to purchase a wine tasting and picnic lunch at Chatham Vineyards for up to 12 people including transportation to and from winery on the new Old Donation bus. Tours of the Church, on the National Register of Historic Places, will be conducted by interpreters in historic garb. Other offerings at the event include the Old Book Sale, White Elephant Sale and, for children, photos with Santa, games and face painting. For more information and to purchase Oyster Pairing tickets, email oysterroast@olddonation.org or call 757-497-0563.

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Women, War, and Worship - Nov. 22, 7 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. Performed by the combined vocal forces of the ODU Concert Choir and Schola Cantorum, composer Richard Moriarty's ADSUM! Celebrating Women in the Church will receive its world premiere.  Soloists Robynne Redmon and Christopher Mooney, and organist Dr. James Kosnik, will be conducted by Dr. Nancy Klein and Agnes Mobley Wynne.  Moriarty's new Civil War song cycle We that wait, based on poetry written by women during the War will have its local premiere by Mezzo Soprano Robynne Redmon and pianist Stephen Coxe.  Free-will offering. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org. 

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Advent Lessons & Carols - Nov. 29, 5:30 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. The Parish Choir will lead a candle-lit service of Lessons and Carols, in the tradition of King's College, Cambridge.  Enter the season of Advent with this beautiful and meditative service. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org.       

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Sing we Nowell
- Dec. 6, 4 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. Join the Virginia Chorale in welcoming the holidays with seasonal music from the British Isles.  Music of Herbert Howells, James MacMillan, and Ben Parry's sizzling arrangement of Jingle Bells are just a few of the selections in this popular concert.  Tickets $25, Students $10. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org. 
 
Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Stephen Coxe & Friends - Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. Virtuoso pianist Stephen Coxe gathers his friends to perform chamber music by Saint-Saens, Debussy, Roussel, Coxe, and Carter.  Performers include soprano Suzanne Oberdorfer, flautist Patti Watters, tenor Brian Nedvin, cellist Jeffrey Phelps, and organist Kevin Kwan.  Tickets $15, Students $5. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org. 

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Holiday Brass with the U.S. Army TRADOC Band - Dec. 13, 4 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. The U.S. Army TRADOC Band from Fort Eustis presents a festive holiday brass concert at Christ and St. Luke's. Free. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org. 

Sacred Music in a Sacred Space: Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols - Dec. 24, 9:30 p.m., Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk. As the Christmas Eve Carol Prelude, the women of the Parish Choir present Britten's beloved work with gifted harpist Barbara Chapman. Christ and St. Luke's is located at 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk, www.christandstlukes.org.   
 

2016 Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, Spain - Oct. 5-16, 2016, hosted by St. John's, Chester. If you are interested in participating, contact the Rev. Dale Custer, rdalecuster@gmail.com, or Doris Custer, custerdd@gmail.com.