NEWSLETTER OF THE CHAPEL OF THE CROSS

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning. These words from Lamentations (3:22-23) seem quite appropriate in the context of this issue on new beginnings. They remind us that no matter how many new days we have lived through, no matter how many new starts, God's grace and energy and compassion never wear out. They are new every morning; they are fresh each new season.

Some of us have been at the Chapel of the Cross many years. We have seen the start up of many church school terms. We have welcomed multiple incoming classes of University students. We have witnessed numerous new beginnings for EYC and Bible studies and adult education. This will be my 25th time to return to the fuller liturgical schedule of the fall, and Dr. Quinn will be forming his 38th Junior Choir!

But whether we have just arrived here or whether we are Chapel of the Cross veterans, the new fall beginnings provide us all with wonderful opportunities to receive and to proclaim God's love and forgiveness, which "are new every morning." Through our regular worship, through new educational offerings, through new opportunities for service and fellowship, through new companions who join our staff and our congregation, God's dynamic presence in the world will become more tangible to us. New challenges, some known to us and some still beyond the horizon, will call forth the energy and the wisdom and the commitment God has given us and desires to come to its fullness. Delightful surprises will sustain us and strengthen our faith in God's loving providence. No doubt some storms will test us and form us both personally and communally.

Through it all there is one thing which never changes, which we can always count on: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning." As we begin another year together, I encourage you to embrace these new opportunities and so to allow God's Spirit to work in each of you and in all of us together "that which is well pleasing in His sight." †

Vestry Actions

At its July meeting, the vestry;

Approved the submission of the 2008 Campus Ministry budget request to the diocese
Approved the recommendation of the Finance Committee to authorize the Treasurer and the Finance Committee to pay off the Bank of America line of credit, used to finance the chapel organ
Approved the nomination of Gary Monroe as Treasurer, to serve the unexpired term of Reid Conrad, now co-chair of the Capital Campaign
Approved the recommendation of the Personnel Committee that the name of Christian Education staff positions be changed to "Christian Formation"
Approved the recommendation of the Personnel Committee that the hourly rate for the positions of Christian Formation Assistant and Youth Assistant be increased to $15.
Approved the recommendation of the Social Ministry Committee for allocation of $13,842 from a designated bequest for prison ministry to the Peace Center Orange County Prison Unit
Approved the nomination of Joel Wagoner as member-at-large of the Stewardship Formation Committee
Approved the nomination of Margaret Will to the Global Missions Committee. †

An Update on the Discernment Process

Melody Harrison, Sr. Warden

Through the summer months, the vestry has continued to meet with the rector to discern whether or not the Chapel of the Cross should expand its pastoral care to include the blessing of gay unions. They have agreed to make their final recommendation to him at their October 18 meeting. As part of a wider discernment process, they have solicited and received written responses. Copies of these responses (from those who have given permission) are available for parishioner perusal in a notebook in the parish office. They will also host three facilitated Sunday gatherings in September, open to all parishioners who wish to attend one. On Sunday, Sept. 23, sessions facilitated by the Rev. Susan Sherard will be held at 8:15 am (following the 7:30 service) and at 12:45 pm. The next Sunday, Sept. 30, a session, facilitated by parishioner, Terry Barnett, will begin at 6:15 pm. Each gathering will be in the dining room, starting with pick-up food and last an hour. On Oct. 14, a parent gathering at 10:20 am will be titled, "Talking with Kids about Gay Unions." †

The Legacies of the Chapel of the Cross

By Ted Vaden, Capital Campaign Communication Committee Chair

Throughout the history of the Chapel of the Cross, the parish's reach often has exceeded its grasp as the congregation strived to serve growing missions within limited space. And that often meant that the parish had to stretch beyond its means to do so.

Parishioner Rob Sullivan has recently compiled a summary history of the church's growth over the last century and a half. The struggle against financial limitations began with the first efforts to build a church in the 1840s. William Mercer Green proposed the building of the church in 1842, and the people of Chapel Hill put up about a third of the necessary funds, hoping the Diocese would supply the rest. But it did not.

"The building was soon begun with pledges of $1,200, but for lack of funds it stood for many years in a half-finished condition", according to the history. "It was not completed until 1848, using money donated by Professor Green himself. The final cost was probably around $5,400, twice the original estimate of $2,400."

That was the original chapel, which has been improved upon numerous times since. The parish began to outgrow the chapel at the beginning of the 20th century, and in 1921 the North Carolina Episcopal Convention called for enlargement of the Chapel of the Cross to better serve the University community. In 1921, William Erwin stepped forward with a pledge of $50,000 to build a new church, provided the congregation raised $35,000 for a parish house to link the new structure with the chapel.

Our present church was completed in 1925. The parish took out a mortgage loan, estimated at $10,000, and again turned to other parishes in the diocese to help pay it off. The loan finally was paid off through a Retire the Debt campaign in 1942, the parish's 100th birthday.

The new church project was controversial, and after it was completed, some longtime parishioners, loyal to the traditional chapel, declined to attend services in the new church.

The next big challenges came in the 1950s. The first was a campaign to restore the chapel, which had to be closed because of major structural damage. The loan on that project was not paid off until 1962. In 1958, a new wing was added to the parish house to provide additional classrooms and space for campus ministry. The mortgage loan was paid off, along with the chapel restoration loan, in 1962 through a special fund-raising drive.

In 1980, the church was closed for three months for repairs and installation of an organ. The construction loan of $13,000 was paid off in 1984.

In the early 1990s, a fund-raising campaign was conducted for new flooring, wiring of the church, and renovation and expansion of the parish hall. The parish raised $1.1 million toward the $1.3 million cost of the project. A subsequent retire-the-debt campaign was finished in 1998 when the vestry used parish reserve funds to pay off the mortgage.

Since 1979, there have been various studies and reports documenting the need for a "Great Hall" for fellowship. Today, 28 years later, a fellowship hall is planned as the first priority in the current master planning effort. Other priorities include more space for Christian education and for campus ministry. These will seem like daunting challenges. As we face them, it's useful to remember the legacy of those who came before us at the Chapel of the Cross and to consider what ours will be to future generations. Somehow, it's always worked out! †

In the Beginning . . .

By Syd and Laurie Alexander

Syd:

As children growing up in the 50s at the Chapel of the Cross, we were faced with certain non-negotiable expectations. The Junior Choir was high on the list. At the beginning of the new school year, my best friend, Cranford Stoudemire, and I were instructed that on the next Wednesday afternoon, and on every Wednesday thereafter forever, we were going to choir practice. Even worse, on Sundays, we would be clothed in robes and have to sit in the front of the church where everyone could watch us. There was a new choirmaster named John Schnorrenberg who had plans for us. We had been at the parish longer than he had, so we assumed we could run him off. We actually made a pretty good effort, but John was smart and didn't play fair. He went to our mothers! Thus, my mother and Mary Arthur Stoudemire became the Junior Choir mothers.

Laurie:

When the summer of l985 drew to a close, Sandy, our oldest son, knew the time had come for him to begin serving his Alexander family requirement of two years in the Junior Choir. He understood there would be cookies, other children, and of course Mary Arthur Stoudemire, a dear family friend. But the formidable Dr. Quinn was an unknown. Sandy was unsure. Three years later, and then again five years after that, his two sisters Caroline and Laura (now ages 27 and 25) would follow their anxious brother on that first Wednesday of choir practice. The girls already knew how much fun it would be and couldn't wait for their turns. By the late 1990s when Laura left the choir with many tears, our children (not counting their father) had served close to 20 choir years. This was more than three times their required six years. It was Sandy, the initially reluctant chorister, who encouraged his mother to join the newly formed Parish Choir with him in 2001. "It'll be great, we can sing together!"

In 2007 we brought our 18-month-old granddaughter Lucy to church with us. Her eyes followed the choir, and she opened her mouth wide enough to fit her whole hand in, the way Dr. Quinn demands. Maybe by 3rd grade she will live here and start her obligatory 2 years.

Syd:

One of the ways to avoid Junior Choir duties was to be an acolyte. Not only did you escape the Wednesday afternoon sessions, but you got to sit in a different place in the sanctuary where it was more difficult for the choirmaster or one of the mothers to see what you were doing during the sermon. When the opportunity was offered, Cranford and I eagerly accepted, as did my younger brother when his time came. My sisters were not as fortunate because girls were not allowed to serve as acolytes in those days.

Laurie:

In the late 1980s, Sandy again led the way as an acolyte. The two girls waited their turns. Meanwhile, they continued to set up altars at home and serve communion and preach to their assembled animals and dolls as they had since pre-school. Their gender in no way limited their roles in church hierarchy. Their turns came. Greeting communicants as they came down the back stairs from the altar rail was a favorite aspect of this new role. The major drawback was that acolytes were not encouraged to belt out the descant to a processional hymn. A serious and reverent face was expected, which meant avoiding the eyes of family members standing in the pews who were bent on making you laugh.

Syd:

Youth group also started up in the fall. Our program was a small group run by parent volunteers with help from an occasional college student. The Methodists had the best program in town under the leadership of Mr. and Mrs. Graham so we often met with them at their church. The major exception was during Lent. The rector, David Yates, led mandatory Bible classes every Wednesday afternoon (in addition to the choir practices) in the chapel. We learned the great stories of the Bible as well as the Catechism in the back of the Prayer Book. The forty days of Lent ended in holy week with a written test. Failure meant you might not make it to the Resurrection of Easter Sunday and/or confirmation, which followed Lent.

Laurie:

When our children were in their teens, the arrival of fall meant the start up of EYC with the Lock In not far down the road. The famous Haunted House was in October. Caroline and her husband Jeff Williams felt so at home with EYCers they stayed on to lead the group as a young married couple. Their groups of 50-70 kids filled the parlor or the arboretum with energy and friendship as the new school year was launched.

While our three children were UNC students, the fall meant loading into a car with Bob or Mary Chase and driving down US-70 to Emerald Isle for the ECM Labor Day Beach Trip. Both girls got to know their future best friends and roommates on two such weekends

Our three living generations of Alexanders have celebrated five baptisms, five confirmations,` and five weddings at the Chapel of the Cross so far. Each September brings new possibilities as we continue our long connection with this community of faith. †

Meet the people who keep things running smoothly

By Patty Courtright

Along with the new programs that start and re-start at the Chapel of the Cross this fall, there are three "new" members of our staff. Mary Anne Handy, who has been the administrative assistant, became the parish administrator this summer. Stepping into Mary Anne's former position is parishioner Marsha Pate. Ron McGill began as facilities manager in July. Please welcome these new and not-so-new people to the staff of our parish.

Parishioners might not have occasion to see them in action, but their work is vital. The combined efforts of Mary Anne Handy, Marsha Pate, and Ron McGill keep the Chapel of the Cross running seamlessly so that the clergy and other program staff and many parish leaders can tend to the spiritual and programatic needs of the congregation and the parish's many visitors.

Mary Anne Handy

On a typical day, Mary Anne fields phone calls, assists people who drop by the church, deals with any service or maintenance needs, keeps the church office running smoothly, and makes sure the bulletins, prayer books, and hymnals are in order for the next service.

As parish administrator, she oversees the operation of the many behind-the-scenes functions of the church. A doer by nature, Mary Anne gravitated toward the job because it provided more responsibility than she had the past three years as the parish's administrative assistant.

"After working in supervisory positions in the private sector for 30 years, I thought I would enjoy moving into a job with less stress, so the job as administrative assistant seemed perfect," she says. "But after about a year, I realized I missed the level of responsibility and the chance to be a mover and shaker."

In June she was given that chance as parish administrator. Outside her formal duties, she has also taken on a personal mission: to make the Chapel of the Cross as inviting as possible and to ensure that everyone who walks through the door feels welcome. Mary Anne relishes the diversity of these responsibilities, not only for the challenges they present but also because they utilize her strong interpersonal skills.

Elder care is an issue near and dear to her heart. "I enjoy sending notes and cards to people who can't be here on a regular basis, especially the older members of the church," she says.

An increasing challenge, she adds, is working with the homeless population in the area. Assisting people who stop by the church to ask for financial assistance, food, transportation, or even a place to sleep is a constant balancing act.

"It's a complicated issue because the Chapel of the Cross gives money to the Inter-Faith Council for Social Service; but there are times when the IFC can't help people, so they direct them to the churches," she says. "Whether or not we're able to help, we always treat people who come here with respect – whatever their circumstances. Often, we'll put them in touch with a member of the clergy if they seem especially agitated."

As if her job didn't keep her busy enough, Mary Anne is also taking classes at UNC toward an undergraduate degree in African-American history. "I can now sympathize more with how daunting college can be for freshmen or sophomores, because six credits a semester is all I can handle," she says.

The experience also provides another connection with her sons, one of whom is in law school at Wake Forest, the other a sophomore at UNC-Greensboro.

Much of the summer was spent playing catch-up, Mary Anne says, but that should ease up considerably with Marsha Pate on board as administrative assistant.

Marsha Pate

With 20 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector, Marsha seemed destined for this role.

Soon after the Pate family — Marsha, husband Andy, and children Charlotte, Ellie, and John — moved to Chapel Hill from Nashville, TN, two years ago, Marsha began volunteering in the parish office and, with two children singing in the junior choir, also took on the role of choir mother.

"I was immersed in the whole church community in Nashville. I did some outreach but was primarily involved with volunteer work, with projects like running the child care," she says.

When the job in the parish office here became available, she thought the timing and the fit were perfect.

"I have always worked in a helping role, primarily managing literacy-based programs for schools and libraries, and I think I can pull from those experiences to help people who might be looking for a church family at the Chapel of the Cross," she says.

Her job involves welcoming people to the parish office, providing any necessary administrative support, producing the liturgical calendar, maintaining the parish database, and helping coordinate weddings, funerals, and the many other church events. Although she officially started work this month, Marsha devoted a few hours each week during the summer to help get her feet wet.

Like Mary Anne, Marsha has been surprised by the number of people who find their way to the Chapel of the Cross in need of help. Each encounter with someone who walks through the door underscores the importance of being a good ambassador for the church, she says.

"Easily, we see half a dozen people with basic needs each week," she says. "It is a challenge to figure out the best way, with a kind heart, to help the folks who walk in. I am always impressed with the respectful and loving way the people at our church approach every visitor."

Outside work, Marsha is an avid reader and volunteer in her children's schools and with their Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. She is quick to add, however, that her new job obligations will not prevent her from being choir mother at church.

"I promised Van Quinn that I wouldn't give up that role," she says. "Being able to work at the church and continue to be part of the parish family is very important to me."

Ron McGill

Ron McGill made his way to Chapel of the Cross not as a parishioner, but as someone who long admired the church's structure and history.

When the job as facilities manager became available, Ron decided that it was time to apply his skills in a different setting. He left his seven-year tenure as facilities manager with Durham Exchange Club Industries, Inc., an organization that employs the mentally ill and handicapped, and started work at the Chapel of the Cross in July.

"I have always been attracted to historical places and passed by here many times through the years, especially since my oldest son attends UNC," he says. "And I've wanted to learn as much about religion and different denominations as possible. After all, we all share a common thread with the wisdom of God."

Overseeing the overall internal and external operations of older buildings presents a unique set of challenges, particularly for someone who has managed modern facilities, Ron admits.

"Learning the operations of a whole new facility is always a challenge," he says. "When you add in all the considerations of a historical building — things like matching paint colors and preserving some of the beautiful old wood in the pews rather than replacing it — that can be an even more challenging task."

But he credits the many parishioners who know the facilities inside and out with helping him navigate his new role. "This is such a pleasant work environment, and the people are very helpful. I have many resources," he says.

As a single parent of three boys, Ron is accustomed to sharing his time and talents with others. He has a strong commitment to helping the community and once owned several barber shops in Durham because that gave him a way to attract and talk with some of the troubled young people in the area.

"My mom was a single parent of four boys so I understand very well the importance of a father in boys' lives," he says. "I felt very fortunate that my sons turned out to be good people, and I wanted to help make a difference in the lives of boys who don't have dads."

Ron attributes his sense of duty toward other people to his mother. "My mother leads a spiritually based life, and my own boys and I have benefited from that. I want to do what I can to help people who might not have that opportunity."

The roads they followed

Mary Anne's journey to her current job began in 1993 when she, her husband Charlie and their two sons moved to Chapel Hill from New Jersey, and she decided to change career paths. Marsha turned her long-time passion for volunteering at church, both here and in Nashville, into a new vocation. And Ron let his love for, and appreciation of, historical structures guide him to this new phase of his career.

"I don't really like change, but most of my life has been about change," Mary Anne says. "Faith is the key. If you have to deal with change, there is no better place for it than a church, where you have a 24/7 support system."

No doubt, Marsha and Ron agree. †

Martha Brimm, Diocesan Intern

By Bill Stockard

It was the empty-nest syndrome that prompted Martha Brimm to explore her next steps. Her daughter, Elizabeth, had left for college, leaving Martha and her husband, Richard Clark, to consider new options.

"I needed to figure out what I was about."

That exploration led her first to seminary studies at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, and now to a diocesan internship with the Chapel of the Cross, and to discern a call to the priesthood.

Now in her second year of seminary, Martha will spend the next six months working with clergy and parishioners at the Chapel of the Cross, serving the community, and clarifying her own goals. "I want to think intentionally about the call and be in an environment with people who have responded to the call."

Martha's path toward the discernment process has been somewhat untraditional. Although currently residing in Durham as a member of St. Stephens Episcopal Church, she has lived all over the southeastern and northwestern United States. She was a field investigator with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for 11 years, working mostly in the Seattle region. In that role, she inspected everything from salmon canneries to pharmaceutical companies. Since her region included Alaska, she was even snowed-in at a hospital where she had gone to inspect their blood bank.

By the time daughter Elizabeth was leaving for her third year of college and her husband, Richard, a physician, had joined GlaxoSmithKline, Martha began her own new journey and departed for Pendle Hill, a Quaker center for study and contemplation near Philadelphia. For six months, she shared the work of the community and took classes exploring Quaker spirituality, the Gospel of John, and Centering Prayer.

It was there that Martha met a member of the Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT), who described her peacemaking work in Colombia, where CPT accompanies communities threatened by violence. CPT is an active peacemaking program sponsored primarily by traditional peace churches such as the Mennonites and Quakers. Subsequently Martha went on a CPT delegation that joined Team members in accompanying displaced residents of the Opón River communities back to their homes. She was moved by the residents' desires to return in the face of extreme violence. When one resident was assassinated, Martha attended his prayer service and tried to imagine walking in his shoes. "We walked along the path he probably took before he was killed."

By this point, Martha knew that her own path was leading to a higher calling. When she returned to the United States, she entered Candler and began working with inmates at the Metro Atlanta State Women's Prison. As part of one seminary class, she worked with a group of inmates to design a healing service for women who had experienced abuse. The women planned the service, wrote a litany, and chose prayers and hymns. "The Holy Spirit danced amongst us at the weekly Sunday evening services. The choir had an amazing range, from Handel to gospel, and the woman who played the keyboard improvised music during the prayers and sermons."

During her time with the Chapel of the Cross, Martha hopes to continue her outreach with area inmates. She is grateful for the support of her family; and she has even seen her interest in social ministry passed on to her daughter, who is currently in the Peace Corps in Peru.

When it's time to finish seminary and choose a path that could include ordination, Martha says that she wants to take her time and make the right decision.

"I'm ready to discern. But it's not the sort of thing you can rush. You're on God's time. You can make yourself available." †

Reflections on Finding One's Way in a New Parish

By Marty Hunter

Although I belonged to the Chapel of the Cross when I was at UNC, returning after many years in California was like "starting anew". It is never easy to be the "newcomer" in any situation. In a large parish the number of services, many clergy, and plethora of activities make it a challenge to feel that one belongs. However, at the Chapel of the Cross there are numerous opportunities to become involved in parish life. Here's what worked for me. Introduce yourself to the clergy and to the people you sit next to in the pew! Study the pictorial directory to put names with faces. Go to coffee hour, sign a card at the newcomer's table. This will open the door to a gathering of people new to the parish. This first event helped me to meet wonderful parishioners, clergy, and welcoming shepherds. Parish ministries were identified which proved most helpful.

Visit different services. Attend Stephen Elkins-Williams' orientation sessions. He is well informed about the history of this parish. Adult education classes, foyer dinner groups, church picnics, animal blessings, hospitality groups, etc. worked for me. There are many choices, depending upon your interests. Helping at an all-church event, such as the ABC sale, enabled me to feel connected to the broader parish community. In addition, participation in the planning and execution of the events for our visitors from South Africa was a reminder of the role of the Chapel of the Cross and the Episcopal Church beyond our parish.

Joining in will help you find your niche. It may be altar guild, children's activities, choir, or one of the many areas involved in hospitality. The latter has many components including shepherds, bread ministry, greeters, ushers and funeral receptions. So be brave, reach out, and find your ministry. People will respond and the Chapel of the Cross will become "your parish".
WELCOME ! †

New Christian Formation Year Begins

By Gretchen Jordan, Christian Formation Director

September 9 is the beginning date for the 2007-2008 Church School program. All ages are invited to gather in the church immediately following the 9:00 service for a staff skit and singing before children and youth dismiss to their classrooms to meet teachers and enjoy Krispy Kreme doughnuts and juice. Coffee and doughnuts will be available for adults following the opening in the dining room.

The fall offers a wide range of opportunities for all ages to continue to deepen their relationship with God and with one another. Refer to the Adult Education information on pages 21-23 of this issue of Cross Roads to see what awaits adult participation.

Graded children's classes begin with 2 year olds and continue through a combined 10th — 12th grade class. A variety of curricula are used throughout the program. We are introducing a new curriculum with our 6th, 7th-8th and 10th -12th grade classes called Seasons of the Spirit. This is a lectionary based curriculum which we hope will enhance worship participation. In addition, a question for family discussion will be offered each week in the bulletin. Our two Godly Play classrooms, Kindergarten and 1st grade, are well staffed with teams of returning teachers. Kesslyn Tench, one of our certified teachers, attended training in Texas in August and is now a licensed trainer. We hope to schedule a teacher training for Godly Play in the fall with a vision to expand to four classes over the next few years.

Recruitment for Church School teachers has been positive thus far but some positions are still open. A team of four teachers offers teams flexibility in scheduling and actual teaching responsibilities.

In addition to church school, other opportunities are offered to children and youth under the umbrella of formation. Children in 3rd grade and higher are encouraged to serve as Youth Saints (assistants to the leaders) for Children's Chapel. The worship class for 1st and 2nd graders will be offered once a month beginning on September 30. This instructional and worship program is offered during the 9:00 service. Caren Parker will be spearheading some dynamic educational programs, entertainment and service projects for the youth and David Frazelle will coordinate the Youth Inquirers' Class, a year long Church School offering for 9th graders and older high school students which provides the opportunity for youth to consider church membership.

Brochures outlining the many and varied opportunities are available throughout the parish buildings. Look for the Adult Education Fall 2007 brochure, Children's Chapel, Church School and Children Faith Formation. †

Tuesday Morning Bible Study

By Mary Schoenfeld, Convenor

The Mary Harris Bible Study Class is a self-led Bible study group that meets every Tuesday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 am in the parish library. Named in honor of long-time parishioner, Mary Harris, the class presently has 14 participants. The class is continuing its project of reading through the entire Bible and has completed the Old Testament, the Apocrypha, and the New Testament up to I and II Peter. Participants take turns leading the class presenting some historical and cultural background to the passages being read. Other members then contribute their ideas and insights, and all eventually focus on the meaning of the passages being read, and how they relate to us today. Discussions are lively and meaningful with a wonderful spirit of openness and understanding among members. The class has been on summer break and will resume meeting Tuesday, September 4. New members are always welcome. †

Special Worship with People with Developmental Disabilities

By William H. Joyner, Archdeacon

Though our "Third Monday" service has been going on for eight years, it is one of those "things which have grown old" that "are being made new," as the collect for the Easter Vigil says. On the third Monday of each month at 7:00 pm, a group gathers in the church for worship. Though we record this in the register as "Evening Prayer," it is unlike any other service in the parish. We call it "Special Worship" or just the Third Monday service, and we invite to it especially persons with developmental disabilities.

We have this service not because we want to keep this rather joyous, noisy, boisterous group out of our more traditional Sunday celebrations — indeed some of the worshippers have come to Sunday morning services. Rather, we do this because it is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate together, with singing, with everyone having an instrument, with lessons in which we all take part. We literally "make a joyful noise unto the Lord," led by our student and other guitarists, with our instruments, with our out of tune voices. Special Worship attracts young and old, children with autism, adults from group homes, parishioners, students. But we don't divide into these categories, for we are all "one in the Spirit" and all come together as children of God. It's both a worship opportunity at the Chapel of the Cross and an outreach into the community to all those whom we might not encounter every day but who are our brothers and sisters in Christ.

All are invited to our Third Monday service, and volunteers, musicians or otherwise, are especially needed — to play an instrument or lead singing, to prepare refreshments, to set up and take down, and just to be with this wonderful group. The only requirements are a willingness to welcome and be welcomed to another part of the worshipping community that is our parish. Bill Joyner (929-7246) can provide more information.

Above right: The Ven. Dr. Bill Joyner greets a young worshiper before the service.

Above: Worshipers praise God with spirited songs.

Episcopal Campus Ministry

By Tammy Lee, Associate for University Ministry

Academic Life always holds the promise of new beginnings. There is always a freshman class. Every semester brings a fresh start. Each class opens a new vista. The Chapel of the Cross has witnessed these promises since its inception and has always held the university in sacred trust. Therefore, we look forward to welcoming new and returning students on August 21 in our Campus Center. They are greeted by the chaplain and our student chaplains, fed a home-cooked meal, and offered an opportunity to connect with a religious community that is challenging and comforting and present as they engage the questions that will form and shape their lives. We meet weekly on Tuesdays during the academic year. Each semester includes retreat and mission opportunities. Students attend worship in all its forms, particularly Compline which has quite a following with many different denominations on campus. They engage in social ministry working for Habitat and in the Orange County prison system as well as with the myriad of opportunities the campus brings to their attention. Of particular note this year are the issues concerning the death penalty. The freshman reading book is devoted to the topic and there are numerous forums and events on campus that will address it.

This is but a glimpse of the fullness of life for students here. If you are wondering how you might participate in this wonderful ministry. Consider the following opportunities:

Volunteer to prepare a "home-cooked" meal for a Tuesday ECM meeting. You can meet the students, hear their appreciation for what you have made, and learn what they are not eating regularly. (You may choose to be reimbursed for your expenses or claim a tax credit.)
Join us for a Parish Night where the students cook for you and hear all about what is going on in the "outside world" as they often refer to it. There is a parish night each semester which is announced in Cross Roads and Sunday Announcements.
Offer to teach a skill or a craft at our weekly gatherings. Bread baking for instance has been hugely popular especially since they consume the fruit of their efforts.
Consider mentoring someone in your vocational area, allowing them to shadow you as they consider making career choices.
When final exams are held…bring a sweet treat to the campus center and say howdy and let them know they are going to survive.
Engage them in conversation on Sunday morning during coffee hour or when you see them in the hall. Ask them what they are thinking about a subject that you, too, are struggling with or ask what they thought of the sermon. You will learn a lot about tolerance and inquiry and what is heard and what is not heard.
Invite them to Adult Education with you or to join a group that you are involved with and that you think might be of interest to them.
Treat them like adults even if you think they aren't yet. Above all don't confuse them with high school students unless they are in grad school - then they will be flattered!
Ask them if they would be interested in ushering or joining the altar guild or serving as lay readers.
Look at the Website www.unc.edu/ecm.

These are but a few ways to be connected with "Episcopal Campus Ministry" which in this place cannot be differentiated from "Chapel of the Cross." It is our greatest strength as a campus ministry and one that hold tremendous opportunity for the life of the world.

For further information about anything relating to our students, please feel free to call me. Tammy Lee, Associate for University Ministry, 929 2193, tlee@thechapelofthecross.org †

EYC's New Beginnings

By Caren Parker,
Youth Ministry Assistant

Kick Off for the 2007-2008 year of Chapel of the Cross Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) will be on September 9. EYC meets most Sunday afternoons from 5:30 to 7:30; we begin in the parish dining room. All youth from sixth through twelfth grades are invited to attend. Every week is an opportunity for food and fellowship! Each year EYC offers a variety of activities intended to help us learn about ourselves and others; these activities include games, trips, community service, and pure silliness. We are making plans for a great year, come see what EYC can offer you! Please contact Caren Parker, cparker@thechapelofthecross.org or 929-2193, with questions and suggestions. †

New Beginnings in 2007-2008 Youth Inquirers' Program

By David Frazelle, Associate for Parish Ministry

The Youth Inquirers' Class is a spiritual formation program focusing on the practices that constitute the Christian life and faith. Particular attention will be given to the practices of prayer, service, sacred reading, stewardship, worship, vocation, and life in community. The year will include a local, overnight retreat and a pilgrimage to Washington, DC. Some participants may choose to make Confirmation — a mature, adult and public affirmation of their faith — a part of this year of formation. The Youth Inquirers' Program is open to all senior high students, although most students choose to participate in their freshman (9th grade) year.

The teachers in this course are always re-evaluating it and seeking improvement. We are currently exploring new ways of scheduling and structuring this year's course. Possibilities include moving from a Sunday morning to a weekday evening time slot, and moving from a year-long series of short sessions to a 10-week series of longer sessions.

We do know that a maximum of two absences throughout the course will be allowed, except for truly exceptional circumstances. Missing one of the trips will count as two absences.

More details will be forthcoming in parish publications. Please contact us with questions or concerns: David Frazelle, dfrazelle@thechapelofthecross.org, 929-2193; or Bill Joyner, william.joyner@src.org. †

Annual Parish Barbecue — September 16

The Chapel of the Cross's Annual Parish BBQ is scheduled for September 16 at 6:30 pm, following the 5:15 service.

Why a barbecue? A "google-search" quickly reveals that we are one of hundreds of parishes worldwide to celebrate an "annual barbecue". (Of course, a parish barbecue in Maine is likely very different from one in North Carolina!) Wherever it is, and whatever is served, a barbecue is a wonderfully festive and casual celebration allowing us an opportunity to enjoy good food and fellowship.

Isn't September 16 later than usual? In past years, the parish barbecue has been held at the end of August to welcome new and returning students and to bring together the parish before we return to the regular church service schedule and fall church school activities. Through the years we have learned that many people are out of town in August — families and students alike. This makes it difficult for people to plan for the BBQ. Scheduling the BBQ later will allow more people to plan and take part. Of course, the possibility of cooler weather in September is an added bonus!

What food will be served? The meal will be catered by Gillis's BBQ and will include traditional eastern North Carolina pork barbecue, as well as barbecued chicken, baked beans, cole slaw, hush puppies, banana pudding, cobbler, brownies, iced tea, and lemonade.

Any entertainment? You can count on it! Music from parishioners and guests is always a highlight of the evening.

How do I sign up? Tickets for the BBQ will be sold after Sunday services starting on August 26 and are priced as follows: Adults: $10, Children under 10: $5, University Students: free (but please sign up so we'll have a better estimate of how many to expect.) No family will be charged more than $40. Please note that on September 9 we must tell the caterer how many people to prepare for; therefore, all tickets must be purchased by September 9.

What should I bring to the BBQ? Because the BBQ will be on the church grounds, most people bring a blanket or lawn chairs.

Anything else I should know? A tradition that accompanies our parish BBQ is a food drive to benefit the food pantry of Inter-Faith Council for Social Service. In thanksgiving for our bounty, please bring at least three non-perishable food items. †

Parishioners sit and enjoy the musical offerings of Rector Stephen Elkins-Williams at the 2006 Parish Barbecue.

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori on Climate Change

By Linda B. Rimer, Environmental Stewardship Committee Chair

On June 7, 2007, the Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori testified before the Environment and Public Works Committee of the United States Senate. The subject of her testimony was global climate change, which she described as "one of the great human and spiritual challenges of our time."

She began her testimony this way: "Before my ordination to the priesthood, I was an oceanographer and I learned that no life form can be studied in isolation from its surroundings or from other organisms. All living things are deeply interconnected, and all life depends on the life of others. Study of the Bible, and of the Judeo-Christian religious tradition, made me equally aware that this interconnectedness is one of the central narratives of Scripture. God creates all people and all things to live in relationship with one another and the world around them. At the end of the biblical creation account, the writer of Genesis tells us that "God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good."

"The crisis of climate change presents an unprecedented challenge to the goodness, interconnectedness, and sanctity of the world God created and loves. This challenge is what has called our faith communities to come here today and stand on the side of scientific truth. As a priest, trained as a scientist, I take as a sacred obligation the faith community's responsibility to stand on the side of truth, the truth of science as well as the truth of God's unquenchable love for the world and all its inhabitants."

"As one who has been formed both through a deep faith and as a scientist, I believe science has revealed to us without equivocation that climate change and global warming are real, and caused in significant part by human activities. They are a threat not only to God's good creation but to all of humanity. This acknowledgment of global warming, and the Church's commitment to ameliorating it, is a part of the ongoing discovery of God's revelation to humanity and a call to a fuller understanding of the scriptural imperative of loving our neighbor."

"Each one of us is connected to those who are just now beginning to suffer from the consequences of climate change and to those living generations from now who will either benefit from our efforts to curb carbon emissions or suffer from our failure to address the challenge which climate change presents."

"The scientific community has made clear that we must reduce carbon emissions globally by 15 to 20 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050 in order to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change. On behalf of the Episcopal Church, as a Christian leader representing today not only the concerns of Episcopalians, but the concerns of the many denominations that are part of the National Council of Churches, I implore you to make these goals a national priority. To my colleagues in the faith community who doubt the urgency of addressing global warming, I urge you to re-consider for the sake of God's good earth."

These paragraphs represent less than half of Bishop Schori's comments to the Senate Committee. In subsequent paragraphs, she links climate change with global poverty, describing the Millennium Development Goals, and stating specifically "We cannot triumph over global poverty, however, unless we also address climate change, as the two phenomena are intimately related. Climate change exacerbates global poverty, and global poverty propels climate change."

The Environmental Stewardship Committee invites you to read the entire testimony at http://www.ecusa.anglican.org/78703_86656_ENG_HTM.htm. Alternatively, copies can be made available in the parish office.

Our Presiding Bishop concluded her testimony with this prayer from our Book of Common Prayer:

"O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature; Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen"
(BCP page 239.) †

Reflections on Yokefellows — Prison Ministry at the Orange County Correctional Facility

By Terry Johnston

I have rarely met anyone as grateful for their spiritual awakening as many of the inmates at Orange County Camp. The depth of suffering these men have experienced is incredible — including the unique burden of guilt they feel knowing how many friends and strangers they have hurt deeply with their past actions. To hear them share their vibrant faith is truly moving.

Prison Ministry centers around Tuesday night Yokefellows meetings where about 60-75 inmates and 20-30 volunteers from a large variety of area churches come and talk, snack, pray and care for each other. In addition, many volunteers are community sponsors which means that they take men out to attend church, to eat "real food," and to talk about family or transition to freedom. Some sponsors are intensely useful at finding inmates jobs for work release or their discharge; some take the men to visit sick family members. Many retired folks thrive in this aspect of the ministry, as do small business owners. A special gift from this parish is the weekly dedication of some of our Episcopal Campus Ministry members who give up valued study time and social time to come share evenings with the inmates. There is something especially hopeful to inmates and volunteers alike about spiritual youth.

The cornerstone of the day to day ministry is Chaplain Ken Barker, whose salary and ministry expenses are paid for by donations from many churches and individuals—Chapel of the Cross being a leader in that regard by providing money from social ministry funds. There is no chapel at the prison, only an eating hall with low ceiling, no air conditioning, and poor acoustics. The Alamance Orange Prison Ministry has, over the years, raised more than $100,000 toward construction of a simple "Peace Center." Over the course of the next several months, there is an effort to double that amount and construction will begin. Construction will include a large amount of donated material and labor. Key to the fund-raising effort is the 1,000 bricks campaign. Below we provide an opportunity for parishioners to purchase a brick. Please consider honoring a relative, a friend, or a dedicated church member by purchasing a brick with their name or something inspirational on it. The vestry has already taken a lead by allocating nearly $14,000 from a designated bequest for this project.

There is no doubt in my mind that the only way to "reform" an inmate is to start with the heart. The men tell me it typically takes many years, a slow cycle that starts with anger and ends in a mature religious belief for the lucky ones. The new chapel will allow for a considerable increase in opportunity for worship services, support for community transition programming, onsite AA and NA meetings, and many other activities. Call me, Terry Johnston at 933-0097 if you want to hear a little more about this ministry. I'll gladly take you to Yokefellows for a visit, or sell you a brick! †

Not in Prison Clothes

By William Rasor
(Reprinted with permission from Chaplain Barker of the Orange County Correctional Facility)

I was recently permitted to go on a second "Community Leave Pass" from Orange Correctional Center. I was accompanying Chaplain Barker to a local church in hopes of getting participation for our facility's transitional programs (Yokefellow, Community Sponsor Passes, and support systems for inmates being released). I and several other inmates spoke to the congregation about the challenges of being incarcerated; its effects, the difficulties of being released back into mainstream society, and how volunteers facilitate the transition. It becomes even more challenging the longer one spends in prison. Personal interaction becomes non-existent the longer a person is in prison and affects a person's social skills. I know all too well the importance of having the personal involvement of volunteers, being incarcerated since I was 16 years old. It makes our efforts especially important to me. My involvement with volunteers has had a very positive effect and has helped me make many of the changes I needed to make, especially after my family passed away. Volunteers fill a void and provide a service that is so instrumental in helping people change and staying out of prison.

My first outing was to the church and straight back, as our time didn't allow for anything else. My second trip, however, was followed by a lunch at a local restaurant with some of the church members. Why is this so important, one might ask? For most, my answer can really be unimaginable and staggering. This was my second trip out of prison and my first meal in a restaurant in over 23 years. It was amazing and alarming at the same time. I was thankful that no one laughed at my child-like wonderment. For over 23 years my only mealtime choices were limited to salt and/or pepper and if I was even going to eat what was put on my plate. I perused the menu in awe and quickly opted on spaghetti with meat sauce and a salad with blue cheese dressing. It was an easy choice, it being my favorite and the only thing on the menu familiar to me. I was so stupefied by all the options; it was the next night as I lay in bed replaying the events in my head that I realized I could've had garlic seasoning on my spaghetti. Another day later and it dawned on me that the waitress called me "sir". I am 39 years old and have been called a lot of things, but I do not remember ever being called sir by anyone. I am not even going to try and explain the newness of dressing in clothes that were not the usual prison garb. Don't believe for one minute that prison clothes are the same as the clothes one wears on the outside. The look and feel good clothes lends to a man is incredible. The clothes may not make the man but they can remind him of where he is as much as a fence can.

Maybe I will be brave next time and order something new or at least remember to use the seasonings sitting so freely on the table. And maybe I will not grin so much at how big the glass of tea is, or that it has a wedge of lemon in it, or the thought of eating my food with a metal fork instead of the usual prison issued plastic "spork", or trying to get the spaghetti rolled around the tines of the fork. It was comforting to have been received with heartfelt compassion. It was nice to sit in a social setting and not be shunned or looked upon with disdain. It felt good to be accepted and treated like an individual. I describe these things as nice, good, and comforting but I should not leave out how needed they were. I was allowed to let my protective guard down, relax, and interact in a social manner that showed who I am and not where I am, which becomes forgotten and neglected over an extended period of time.

I am very thankful for the experience and proud to have shared it with those who were there. I'm also grateful for a Chaplain who recognizes the need for such programs and tries to meet these needs. My experience makes the need for the programs we are promoting that much more relative and I'm only one man among many who need them. I am sure there will be many more first timesfor me and even though they are somewhat embarrassing, I look forward to the opportunity to make such new discoveries. I am keeping an open mind and will face them with humor and much appreciation. †

Yes, I would like to contribute to Chapel of the Cross' "Buy a Brick Campaign" to support the
Alamance Orange Prison Ministry's Peace Center!!

$100 buys 1 (4 x 8) brick.

I would like to buy ______ brick(s). Amount: $_______

I would like to contribute $_________ to the parish's Buy a Brick Campaign.

Name: _______________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________

Telephone:_____________________________________________

Contributions are tax deductible. Make checks out to Chapel of the Cross and put Peace Center in the memo line. Contributions may also be sent directly to the Orange-Alamance Prison Ministry. Individual contributors may have an inscription engraved on their brick. Brochures are available on the Social Ministry Committee Bulletin Board in the parish dining room.

Vacation Church School

The Rev. Vicky Jamieson-Drake takes part in the daily storytelling skit.

The Rev. Tammy Lee shares creative time with the children

Rector Stephen Elkins-Williams revs participants up with a morning song

The children learn new songs of worship in the music room

The crafts room, led by Peg Pratt, was always full of activity

Photos by Ted Pratt.

We've made a Splash!: Re-Launching the Gift Ark

After two hugely successful years of Gift Ark "launchings," Sunday, August 26 marks the start of the 2007 Heifer Gift Ark campaign!

Under the direction of the Social Ministry and Children and Family Ministry Committees, the parish once again embarks on this partnership with Heifer International, an organization that supplies farm animals to struggling families around the world. Our goal is to try to raise funds for an entire ark, or two each of: cows, oxen, beehives, sheep, water buffalos, goats, camels, llamas, donkeys, trios of ducks, trios of guinea pigs, pigs, trios of rabbits, flocks of geese, flocks of chicks. Each family who receives livestock from the Gift Ark will pass on one or more of the animal's offspring to other families in need in their community. The Gift Ark can be filled, two by two (or puzzle piece by puzzle piece!), for $5,000.

As in past years, look for a colorful 200-piece puzzle of Noah's Ark to be assembled in the parish dining room. You'll have the opportunity to "purchase" as many pieces as you like to fill in the puzzle. Our goal is a finished puzzle and a full Gift Ark for Heifer International—by the evening of the Blessing of the Animals service on October 2.

This year's puzzle pieces "cost" $25 each, giving everyone — young and less young, individuals and families/organizations — a chance to contribute to this effort. As each piece is "sold," the donor may affix it into its place in the puzzle. When the full image appears, we'll have completed the puzzle and our goal all together — since an effort this large requires all hands on deck!

The Micah Group reminds us that Heifer Project efforts address many of the Millennium Development Goals, and our gifts to Heifer help us reach individual targets of 0.7 of 1% giving toward the MDGs, as encouraged by the diocese and denomination.

You are invited to visit the Heifer International website at http://catalog.heifer.org/giftark.cfm for more details about the Gift Ark. Be on the lookout for an Ark display in the dining room to include information on the Heifer Gift Ark; new and improved ark-shaped collection boxes for youths; colorful cards for gift giving in honor or memory of others; and the puzzle itself!

How to get our youngest involved? One idea is to honor a good deed each day with coins for children's ark boxes until a family piece(s) can be purchased! (Please feel free to share any other enrichment ideas with Gretchen Jordan.) Happy Ark embarkment! †

Habitat Golf Tournament

By Brian McRae

Play for Pars is the annual charity golf tournament sponsored by the parish's UNC Student - Chapel of the Cross Habitat for Humanity Partnership. This event is one of the partnership's largest fundraising efforts each year. The goal of the tournament is to raise $25,000 to finance the building of a Habitat for Humanity house in Orange County. The diligence of previous chairpersons, including Blanche and Henry Clark, Cathy Fields, Lucinda Thompson, and Sandy Worth, has helped make the golf tournament a success since 2000. The participation of clergy, Stephen Elkins-Williams and Vicky Jamieson-Drake, and their generous sponsorship by parishioners and friends have also made past tournaments successful, not only in funds raised but also in enjoyment of all the participants.

This year's tournament will be held at 1:00 pm, Monday, September 17, at the Preserve at Jordan Lake Golf Club. Participants in the tournament will enjoy free range balls, a pre-play lunch, and a post-play reception. During the reception, awards will be given for the various skill competitions and for lowest gross score, lowest net score, and second lowest net score. Prizes in the past have included rounds of golf at the Governors Club, Chapel Hill Country Club, and the Preserve Golf Club as well as gift certificates to the Carolina Club, Outback Steakhouse, and Best Buy.

A raffle and silent auction will also be conducted during the reception. The raffle will include donated goods and gift certificates from local restaurants and business, including the following: Squids, 411 West, Maggiano's, JuJuBe, Rockfish Seafood Grill, Golf Galaxy, Home Depot, and Lowe's Home Improvement. The silent auction is a new twist this year, and the big item up for bid is golf lessons from former professional golf instructor Craig Sullivan. Craig was tutored by renowned golf instructor David Leadbetter and has worked with many PGA Tour professionals including Greg Norman, Curtis Strange, and Ernie Els.

A new approach has been initiated for the 2007 tournament in an effort to increase revenue and player participation. The registration fee has been lowered to $125 per person. However, as in the past, participants can seek individual sponsors to further their overall contribution to the tournament. A grand prize will be awarded to the individual who is responsible for bringing in the largest amount of money. Last year, the grand prize was a $100 gift certificate to B. Christopher's.

Another change for 2007 to offset the lower entry fee is that the steering committee is actively soliciting contributions from local businesses to help sponsor various aspects of the tournament. For instance, a business can sponsor a team, the longest drive contest, the putting contest, or the post-play reception.

We are looking forward to another great tournament. Participation and assistance are always welcome. You can help by playing golf with us and by informing others about our tournament. You can also sponsor an individual golfer, sponsor a team, or involve your business and sponsor a team or part of the tournament.

For more information please contact Brian McRae at 732-9421 or mcraebj@gmail.com. †

Fall Adult Education Programs

Educational offerings of the Chapel of the Cross are intended to reflect the parish mission statement and to give parishioners a variety of opportunities to discern their walk with God through Christ as a part of our faith community. The Adult Education Committee is Paul Carew, Ian Dunn, Al Guckes, Gretchen Jordan, Mary Ann Morris, Lila Wolff and Nancy Tunnessen, chair.

Please contact anyone on the committee with your questions or suggestions.

SUNDAY MORNING PROGRAMS

10:20 to 11:05 AM

September 9

Gala Celebration

For the 3rd year in a row and by popular demand, the staff will present an interesting take on some of the biblical stories in skit form! Don't miss the celebration of a new Christian Education year. Join the rector and a company of guitar players for some animated singing prior to the skit and enjoy Krispy Kreme donuts and coffee after. It all begins immediately following the 9:00 am service in the church.

September 16

The Death of Innocents

Chancellor James Moesser

Sister Helen Prejean's book The Death of Innocents is this year's UNC incoming student discussion book. Addressing the legal and religious arguments that have been used to justify the death penalty, the book explores the possibility that innocent people are being executed. The Chapel of the Cross has supported research into the use of the death penalty in North Carolina and this issue is certainly a concern of many in the parish. Chancellor Moeser will discuss the book and student response to the reading.

September 16 & 23

Approaching Adolescence Part I & Part II

Understanding our Children and Ourselves

Dr. John Tisdale

Pastoral psychologist, Dr. John Tisdale, will engage with parents in a presentation and discussion on adolescence.

September 23

Our Common Good

Senator Ellie Kinnaird

Parishioner and North Carolina Senator Ellie Kinnaird will speak about this past legislative session's accomplishments and issues she anticipates will come before the state legislature this year of which we, as people of faith, will want to be aware as we seek to advocate for justice, community cohesiveness and the common good. She will also touch on how her personal faith guides her work as a legislator.

September 23 and 30

Newcomers Gathering

The Rector and Friends

Newcomers, self defined, are invited to an introduction to the Chapel of the Cross: its mission, programs and people.

September 30

Parent Gathering

Looking Forward: Opportunities for Children and Families This Year

Join our educators and Children and Family Ministry Committee representatives to hear about children's faith formation opportunities and engage in discussion with other parents

September 30, October 7, 14, 21

Trying to Stand in a Fallen World: How a Christian Makes
Choices That Matter

The Rev. Tambria Lee & The Rev. David Frazelle

The clergy will offer four sessions which will begin with a look at the history of Christian ethics and be followed by ethical decision making from an Anglican perspective. The third session will cover the nature of tragic choice. The series will conclude with making choices in your own life structured around actual ethical dilemmas.

October 7

Parent Gathering

Introduction to the New Youth Curriculum with Gretchen Jordan

The 6th — 12th grade Church School classes Season of the Spirit curriculum is new this year. Come experience a session and learn what your kids are doing while you are in adult education!

October 14

Parent Gathering

Talking with Kids about Gay Unions

Join a panel for a round table discussion.

October 28

If I Had A Million Dollars

In the days of lotteries, Las Vegas, Power of Ten and unexpected inheritance, have you ever dreamed about what you would do if you had new found wealth? This provocative presentation might help you consider some options for your fantasies and your realities.

November 4 and 11

The Gospel of Matthew: The History and Theology of Lectionary Cycle A

Dr. Joel Marcus

Advent marks a change in the source of service readings. We begin Lectionary Cycle A whose New Testament readings are largely drawn from the Gospel of Matthew. Dr. Joel Marcus, Professor of New Testament and Christian Origins at Duke Divinity School, will help prepare us to hear those readings with more attentive ears.

November 18

What's Happening?

The Rev. Stephen Elkins-Williams

Do you ever wonder why folks line up at the Baptismal Font during the Eucharist, why some people cross themselves and others stand instead of kneeling when praying? Is it OK to sit instead of kneeling? Who determines whether we use Rite I or Rite II and why? What do we mean by high church, low church, Anglo Catholic? Here's your chance to ask your "Why do we do that?" question.

November 25

Creating Your Own Sacred Space

Spiritual practices in religions around the world include some form of focused prayer or mindfulness. Whether it is meditation, centering prayer or simple awareness, spiritual depth occurs when there is focus and singularity. Many of us, consciously or not, create a place of peace or a spot where we feel close to God. Parishioners and staff will describe their sacred space and share hints to help you create your own.

December 2

Advent Intergenerational Event

This annual event brings us all together to prepare for Christmas by creating Advent wreaths, Jesse tree ornaments, and selecting personal devotional materials.

December 9

Advent, Christmas, Epiphany Poetry Reading

For the tenth year, Michael McFee again hosts this sharing of seasonal poetry. Parishioners are invited to bring their favorite Advent/Christmas/Epiphany poems to share with others. These can be cherished verses from childhood, recent discoveries, or any poem at all that we can read aloud in the spirit of the season. Poet Michael McFee is a parishioner and teaches poetry at UNC.

December 16, 23

No Adult Education programming

December 30

Carol Sing-along with parish musicians

Bring an hors d'oeuvres to share for this intergenerational event of singing favorite carols, hearing a story or two of their origin and enjoy hearing the talent of many youth and adult musicians of the parish.

DAYTIME PROGRAMS

Tuesday Mornings

September 4 through May, 8:30 to 9:30, Library

Mary Harris Bible Study

New members are welcome! The group began years ago reading and discussing the Bible. In September, we will continue a study of Paul's letters. Group members share in facilitating the weekly study. Contact: Mary Schoenfeld, 967-7774

Friday Mornings

Beginning September 28, 10:00 AM, Library

Servant Leadership 1: Foundations for Growth & Transformation

The Johnson Intern Program is sponsoring a ten session introductory course starting on Friday, September 28th. The first and last session run from 10-3 PM and the other six run from 10-Noon. Servant Leadership is a paradoxical term which illuminates the true nature of genuine leadership at every level of life and also brings us to the very heart of Christian discipleship, the way of Jesus. Servant leadership, as a radical redefinition of power and the nature of leadership, offers a compelling model for contemporary Christian living and a spiritual path that connects faith with daily life. In this course, we explore central themes of servant leadership---communion, community, compassion, call, money and power---and their interrelatedness. This course comes from the Servant Leadership School of Greensboro. Attendance is limited to 18 individuals. For more information or to register, contact Susan Gladin through the parish office.

Saturday, October 6, 9:30am to 4:00 pm

St. Matthews, Hillsborough

Centering Prayer Workshop

The Rev. Thomas Ward

The Rev. Thomas R. Ward, Jr., retired Chaplain of the University of the South in Sewanee, TN, will lead the Saturday workshop and preach at the Chapel of the Cross on Sunday, October 7 at the 9:00 am and 11:15 am services. He is a leader in Contemplative Outreach, a network of individuals and faith-based communities committed to living the contemplative dimension of the Gospel in everyday life through the practice of Centering Prayer. Exploring and expanding one's prayer life under the guidance of Mr. Ward, an Episcopal priest and well-known leader of Centering Prayer workshops and retreats, is a rare spiritual opportunity. Centering Prayer is a contemporary method of consenting to God's presence within us. Its practice provides access to an ancient, silent, contemplative prayer in which an openness to God and a willingness to change can be achieved. The benefits of this form of prayer occur over time in the way we live out lives. In opening ourselves to God's will for us, transformation can happen. An increased awareness of joy, peace, compassion, and faithfulness are only some of the benefits of this practice. "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile" is Jesus saying "Come away and be with me. Be alone with me. Let me refresh you. Let me balance you. I am your center. Come to your center." The Spiritual Life Committee is providing us with an opportunity to explore this reading for ourselves and participate together in a prayer enrichment weekend.

Saturday, November 3, 12:30 — 2:00 PM

Parish Library

Reading With A View Toward Spirituality

November 3, 12:30 — 2:00 PM

Join other parishioners for a discussion of Thomas Merton's book, Thoughts in Solitude. Bring a bag lunch if you like and meet together in the parish library. Raquel Goldberg, convener, 929-3332.

EVENING PROGRAMS

Tuesday evenings, September 11, 18, 25, October 2

8 PM in the Library

DO IT YOURSELF THEOLOGY?

The Rev. Dr. Richard Pfaff

An attempt to "do" some theology ourselves, guided by an approach that tries to balance simultaneously, along with technical theology, scriptural exegesis, history, experience, and feeling. Other elements, such as linguistics or physiology, may be introduced as participants are able and willing to contribute them. The four sessions will be open-ended and experimental; participants will be expected to avail themselves of, and bring to each session, a) a Bible, b) the paperback Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (available for purchase through the parish office; or of course the full version), and c) thinking caps. Our starting point will be baptism, especially infant baptism: may, should, and/or must infants be baptized?

This class will be limited to 20. Sign up on the adult education bulletin board in the dining room.

3rd Thursdays

Short Story Reading Group

7:30 to 9:30 in the Parlor

Faith: Stories, edited by C. Michael Curtis, will be our source of short stories to contemplate and discuss, looking for good literature and an enjoyable read, but also for the insight of others in what it means to live a faithful life. New readers are welcome!

September 20: "Voyage Four" James A. Michener

October 18: "The Priest and His Love" Yukio Mishima

November 15: "At the Seminary" Joyce Carol Oates

December 20: "Sister Imelda" Edna O'Brien

QUIET DAY

Saturday, December 1

Advent Quiet Day

Camp New Hope

Mark this date on your December 2007 calendar and watch for details in the November Cross Roads and bulletin announcements.

September Programs and Meetings

Tuesday, September 4

3:00 pm Girl Scout Troop 378

5:30 pm Personnel Committee

Wednesday, September 5

5:00 pm Centering Prayer

5:30 pm Building & Grounds
Committee

Saturday, September 8

9:00 am Awakening Heart

†

Sunday, September 9

5:00 pm Episcopal Youth Community

Monday, September 10

6:30 pm Global Missions Committee

Tuesday, September 11

3:00 pm Girl Scout Troop 378

7:00 pm Environmental Stewardship Committee

7:30 pm Finance Committee

Wednesday, September 12

5:00 pm Centering Prayer

Thursday, September 13

5:00 pm Capital Campaign Committee

†

Sunday, September 16

5:00 pm Episcopal Youth Community

Monday, September 17

5:00 pm Adult Education Meeting

7:00 pm Special Worship with People with Developmental
Disabilities

Tuesday, September 18

3:00 pm Girl Scout Troop 378

Wednesday, September 19

11:30 am Prayer Chain

5:00 pm Centering Prayer

Thursday, September 20

6:00 pm Vestry Meeting

7:30 pm Adult Book Group

†

Sunday, September 23

5:00 pm Episcopal Youth Community

Tuesday, September 25

3:00 pm Girl Scout Troop 378

Wednesday, September 26

5:00 pm Centering Prayer

†

Sunday, September 30

5:00 pm Episcopal Youth Community

September Service Schedule

† Sunday, September 2 (Green), The Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 17), BCP p. 920

7:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Chapel Mr. Elkins-Williams

9:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite II Church Ms. Jamieson-Drake

10:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Carolina Meadows The Rev. Ralph Smith

11:15 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Church Ms. Jamieson-Drake

5:15 pm Holy Eucharist Rite II Chapel Ms. Jamieson-Drake

9:30 pm Compline Church

† Sunday, September 9 (Red), Holy Cross Day, BCP p. 924

7:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Chapel Ms. Lee

9:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite II Church Mr. Frazelle

11:15 am Morning Prayer and Holy Eucharist Rite I Church Mr. Frazelle

4:00 pm Holy Eucharist Rite I Carol Woods Ms. Jamieson-Drake

5:15 pm Holy Eucharist Rite II Chapel Mr. Frazelle

9:30 pm Compline Church

† Sunday, September 16 (Green), The Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19), BCP p. 920

7:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Chapel Mr. Frazelle

9:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Church Mr. Elkins-Williams

11:15 am Holy Eucharist Rite II Church Mr. Elkins-Williams

5:15 pm Holy Eucharist Rite II Chapel Mr. Elkins-Williams

9:30 pm Compline Church

† Sunday, September 23 (Green), The Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20), BCP p. 920

7:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Chapel Mr. Elkins-Williams

9:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite II Church Dr. Joyner

11:15 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Church Dr. Joyner

4:00 pm Holy Eucharist Rite I Carol Woods Mr. Elkins-Williams

5:15 pm Holy Eucharist Rite II Chapel Mr. Elkins-Williams

9:30 pm Compline Church

† Sunday, September 30 (Green), The Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21), BCP p. 920

7:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite I Chapel Ms. Jamieson-Drake

9:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite II Church Ms. Lee

11:15 am Morning Prayer and Holy Eucharist Rite I Church Ms. Lee

5:15 pm Holy Eucharist Rite II Chapel Ms. Lee

9:30 pm Compline Church

Centering Prayer and the Treadmill

By David Frazelle,
Associate for Parish Ministry

A close friend of mine, who has been practicing Centering Prayer twice a day for about 20 years, gave me an image. I found it powerful and incisive, and I offer it now to you.

"The image," he said, "is of a treadmill. The treadmill is hooked up to a light bulb, and the light bulb represents the light of my mother's smile. As long as I stay on that treadmill, my mother's smile will keep shining on me. But the fear is that as soon as I step off that treadmill, I will be cast into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Centering Prayer teaches me that I can step off that treadmill, and that if I do, there is another light that sustains me, a light that shines always, brighter than the sun — and that light is the light of Christ."

I was asked to write about what Centering Prayer has meant to me. The above image conveys that meaning as well as anything for me. Centering Prayer is a way that I can step off the treadmill and experience the transformative light, life and love of Christ. Then, when I start running again, I have a litttle better chance of bringing that light with me, and of running the right person. †

"… tradition tells us that we need a spiritual practice that will open us to the transforming power of God." Thomas R. Ward, Jr., in "Introduction:
Contemplation and Transformation,"
Sewanee Theological Review 50:3 (Pentecost 2007)

On Saturday, October 6, 2007, the Spiritual Life Committee will present a Centering Prayer Workshop at Saint Matthew's Episcopal Church, Hayden Building-Fellowship Hall, in Hillsborough, NC. The workshop will begin at 9:30 am and conclude at 4:00 pm. The Rev. Thomas R. Ward, Jr., retired Chaplain of the University of the South in Sewanee, TN, will lead the Saturday workshop and preach at the Chapel of the Cross on Sunday, October 7 at the 9:00 am and 11:15 am services. He is a leader in Contemplative Outreach, a network of individuals and faith-based communities committed to living the contemplative dimension of the Gospel in everyday life through the practice of Centering Prayer. Exploring and expanding one's prayer life under the guidance of Mr. Ward, an Episcopal priest and well-known leader of Centering Prayer workshops and retreats, is a rare spiritual opportunity. Centering Prayer is a contemporary method of consenting to God's presence within us. Its practice provides access to an ancient, silent, contemplative prayer in which an openness to God and a willingness to change can be achieved. The benefits of this form of prayer occur over time in the way we live out lives. In opening ourselves to God's will for us, transformation can happen. An increased awareness of joy, peace, compassion, and faithfulness are only some of the benefits of this practice.

"Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile" is Jesus saying "Come away and be with me. Be alone with me. Let me refresh you. Let me balance you. I am your center. Come to your center." The Spiritual Life Committee is providing us with an opportunity to explore this reading for ourselves and participate together in a prayer enrichment weekend. A registration form is on the next page. †

Centering Prayer Workshop

Saturday, October 6, 2007

The Spiritual Life Committee of the Chapel of the Cross

presents

Centering Prayer Workshop

The Rev. Thomas R. Ward Jr.

October 6, 2007

9:30 am — 4:00 pm

Hayden Building - Fellowship Hall

St. Matthew's Episcopal Church,

210 Saint Mary's Rd., Hillsborough, NC

Tom Ward has been an Episcopal priest for over thirty years, serving parishes in Mississippi and Tennessee. From 1994 through 2005, he was University Chaplain at Sewanee, the University of the South (the one university owned and operated by the Episcopal Church in this country). Tom now focuses on the contemplative dimension of the gospel, teaching centering prayer and leading retreats that deepen one's relationship to the Trinity that dwells in our hearts as well as in the world around us. He has a special interest in fostering this practice in local congregations in general and in Episcopal parishes in particular. For the past 15 years, Tom has worked closely with Thomas Keating and Contemplative Outreach Ltd, a network that seeks to foster contemplation wherever hungry souls respond to this deep call of the Spirit.

Mail or return to the Chapel of the Cross attaching a check for $25.00 payable to the Chapel of the Cross with Centering Prayer Workshop on the memo line. Partial scholarships are available; if needed, please submit registration form with appropriate line marked below.

Name ______________________________________________________

Mailing Address _______________________________________________

Phone __________________

Email _______________________________________________________

Please contact me about assistance with workshop fee: _______

Chapel of the Cross member: ________ (yes/no)

St. Matthew's member: ________ (yes/no)

Registration is limited to members of the Chapel of the Cross and St. Matthew's until September 10, 2007.
Non-parishioners may send a registration and fee before this date, and you will be notified if spaces are available.

Lunch choices: check one ____ Vegetarian ____ Deli/Meat

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions.

Cross Roads is a monthly newsletter of the Chapel of the Cross. Please email information to

submissions@thechapelofthecross.org or submit written information to the parish office. Email is preferred.

The deadline for the October edition is Thursday, September 6, 2007.

Last updated: August 1, 2007