From the Rector's Study
Good Morning Church!
Happy New Year church! As we move into Advent we must also celebrate the new year of the church. Advent marks the beginning of the church year and we are looking forward to hitting the ground running- or hopefully cross country skiing soon! But, before we charge ahead into the dawn of a new year, it is important for us to acknowledge the road we've traveled and those who have made the journey possible.
As we wait patiently for the coming of Emmanuel of must reflect on the hard year we have had in many of our personal lives. I have found that through my own grief journey this year that I have needed my church community more than ever. As a result of this we, as a church, have discerned the need for outlets to express ourselves during these times of trial. We have also discerned a wonderful gift among us.
We have blessed by the ministry of Deacon Bonnie who has led and coordinated our new Grief Support Group. This group is for anyone who has experienced loss and, God knows, many of us have experienced loss. If you have experienced loss and need help processing, please know your clergy is here for you. Also know that we will begin a new session of the Grief Support Group in the Spring. If you are interested in joining the current group, please see the clergy for more details. Deacon Bonnie also has a wonderful gift for pastoral care as many of you know and brings such strength in that area as many of you well know.
This acknowledgment has led me to think about all the people I am grateful for in our church and I would like to take some space to recognize a few of them.
Looking back at the year past, we have been blessed by the presence of new folks who do wonderful tasks for the church. Angela, our new(ish) parish administrator is growing into the role day by day and doing a great job keeping our parish and community informed as well as keeping me straight! Nora Zoller is our new cantor and is doing an amazing job leading of leading our hymns and liturgical music with her wonderful powerful voice during our 10:15 Sunday service- and it also means I can turn off my microphone while singing during our Facebook live services, much to the delight of our viewers! I am also thankful to Pam who plays our music beautifully and is a highlight of our services making sure that we lift a joyful noise unto all the world! Ava Zoller should also be mentioned as she does an amazing job of providing lessons for the kids on Sunday and making sure that I am kept in line......
It would also be very very remise if I did not mention our Church Mom, Julianne. Our Program Director is responsible for much of the stuff you all participate in outside of worship. Youth groups, The Community Tutoring Program, cookouts, concerts, Advent programming, and of course Bingo. These programs are more important than we might sometimes realize and she brings a Montana sense of can do to make sure these events are pulled off with Grace and love. These events and her work bring us together as a family and proves to us that Church is not only Sunday morning. This Church is blessed to have her. I am also thankful to Pam who plays our music beautifully and is a highlight of our services making sure that we lift a joyful noise throughout the world and coordinates our special music!
I am so thankful to the Vestry who makes sure our resources are used wisely and our property is carefully and methodically cared for so we never move into that dreaded "deferred maintenance" zone. There is also the Trinity Guild who works to provide the women of Church a place to be together and make a difference in our community. We cant forget our Men's Group that is shifting from breakfast to service in the church and fellowship. We have some many wonderful people volunteering, making sure things stay replenished.
We are also incredibly blessed to have Mike Moore as our treasurer. Mike does the work of making sure bills are paid, budgeting, day to day care of the endowment, and making sure the staff gets paid. This is a very intense job, I had no idea how intense until my wife became "Canon Wife" and I saw how involved all of these processes are. God Bless you Mike Moore! And speaking of God Bless you- we must always remember how tirelessly our pledge treasurer Ann Thie works to make sure all of our deposits are kept in order and your gifts to the church are well documented- all while being Junior Warden! Also blessings to our Senior Warden, Rich Mulholland - who has taught me so much about leadership proving that your middle aged priest can learn new tricks.
There are also numerous folks who do the work that we sometimes take for granted. There is the Altar Guild, which for the first time ever is staffed by a majority of men! Times do change! There are the Nicholas' who make sure the Votive Stand is ready for prayer, as well as Nancy Hardin who makes sure the linens are clean and pressed!
So, if you thought you would get an Advent message from me on this day, I went where the Spirit led and it led me to say thank you to the gifts given to this church by the work of many. There are those whom I haven't mentioned, but know of my love and appreciation.
And speaking of Advent messages- Rest assured, there will be many messages of expectation and preparation through out Advent. These will of course happen at 8 am on Sunday morning and at 10:15 am in church and on Facebook live!
Hope to see you in church!
Trinity Guild
Trinity Guild will meet the first Tuesday of the Month at 1pm. This month that will be December 5th and will meet for their Christmas luncheon at Perkins, Tuesday, December 19, 2023, 11:30am-1:00pm. All women of the church are welcome; each person pays her own way.
Psalm 24 Entrance into the Temple Of David.
1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
the world, and those who live in it;
2 for he has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob. Selah (pause)
7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah (pause)
Meditation:
I love that old hymn, especially the lines, Who is the King of Glory, how shall we call him? He is Emmanuel, the promised of ages, as well as the lines, Open the gates before him, lift up your voices! But even more, I like that my newest book of Psalms, by Nan C. Merrrill, changes the phrase to Compassionate One. Sure, the rhythm is off for the hymn, but the language fits my heart better.
A couple of things happened this week that reminded me of two important things – the first is that I am thankful that my prayers don’t get answered and the second is to open my heart. One conversation did that, in slightly different words, and a second solidified it.
The first conversation was with a young man at a coffee shop. I’ve never thought of myself as an evangelist, but I embrace the idea of encouraging others. This young man had just finished leading a Bible study with three other men. When the others had left, I approached Cody (I think I’m remembering his name correctly) and asked if I could bless him. He was surprised and pleased, so I laid my hand on his shoulder and asked God to continue to bless the work he was doing. Then I asked Cody to pray for someone who has hurt me who now has cancer. Bless him, Cody prayed for complete spiritual and physical healing, as is right and good.
But I caught myself wondering if I was ready to wish that goodness on this person. I had probably not offered up the best prayers in this regard, so it is good that God listens, but follows a different wisdom than my selfish feelings. It was a timely and difficult reminder that I am human and that I definitely need to open my heart.
I am also reading My Grandfather's Blessings, a book that tells true stories of good events and difficult times and understandings. I highly recommend it. The same author wrote Kitchen Table Wisdom, which is next on my reading list.
So, once again, I give thanks that the earth and all that is in it is the Lord’s, and I trust God with our lives, each and every one of them. I know I’d make a mess of things if I were in charge and I’m glad that God listens to my prayers, listens to my heart, loves me – and doesn’t let me run the universe. I especially thank God that the Holy Spirit continues to find ways to open my heart, wider and wider, and wider still.
In this season of Thanksgiving, let us bless others and may we accept the invitation to continually open the gates of our hearts. Thanks be to God!
I am thankful for each of you! Blessings,
Holly
Altar Guild and Worship participants-
The Church is actively recruiting folks who feel called to help us lead worship as readers and those who are called to help with setting up the altar area for liturgy. This involves maintaining the objects we use during our church services as well as working with the rector and clergy to make sure that everything needed for worship is ready and in place. For some, both roles might seem a little daunting or even scary.
We, as clergy, hope that we can be there to train, help and encourage anyone who feels called to either of these jobs. These jobs are not about perfection. These jobs are about being involved, sharing talents with God, and building the bonds of fellowship. Please let any member of the clergy know if you are interested!
From The Vestry-
The next Vestry meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 19th at 5:30pm our Staff meeting will take place at 4pm immediately preceding the Vestry Meeting. We’re resuming our regular meetings on the third Tuesday of the month, at 5:30pm, in the Parish Hall.
If you have anything you would like brought before the vestry, contact the Rector, Senior Warden, or a member of the vestry and the item will be put on the agenda. Before an item is put on the agenda the vestry asks that one has a conversation with the Rector and/or Wardens before the addition to the agenda is made.
The vestry would also like to remind everyone that the minutes of the vestry are available for viewing in the office from 9 am - 2 pm on Monday through Wednesday and on Thursdays from 9 am - 11 am.
The information available not only includes the minutes, but also includes the financial statements and all correspondence to the vestry. All members of the church are welcome to view these public records during the times listed above.
Blue Christmas Service-
We are honored to be able to provide a new Advent worship service. This is a special service, held on the day of the longest night of the year. The liturgy for this powerful service helps us to acknowledge the loss, troubles, or sorrow that many of us feel during the Advent season and give them to God. This service will take place on December 22, at 1pm in the sanctuary.
Schedule of events for December
First Sunday Homecoming will take place on December 3rd after the 10:15 service- Please bring a side, if you are able, to share a meal and reconnect!
Trinity Guild meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 5th at 1pm in the Parish Hall- We’re resuming our regular meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, at 1 pm, in the Parish Hall.
Advent Card and Ornament workshop will happen on Wednesday, December 6th at 5pm Join us for a wonderful evening of food and creativity led by our artist in residence, Julianne!
Our Traditional Advent Cookie Decorating and Delivery to our neighbors will happen on Wednesday, December 13th at 5pm (please deliver baked cookies tot he parish hall before or on December 12th)
Advent Soup and Supper and Pageant play practice will happen on Wednesday, December 20th at 5pm - bring some soup to share and enjoy a visit from Saint Nicholas!
Blue Christmas Service will take place on Friday, December 22 at 1pm- This service marks the longest night of the year. On this day, many churches in Western Christian denominations hold a church service that honors people that have lost loved ones and are experiencing grief or trouble. (This is a service usually held in the evening, but we wanted to make it available to those who are unable to drive at night)
Reminders of Regularly Scheduled Programs
Our School Tutoring Program continues through the month of December at 3:30pm. We will
host the tutoring program each Monday after school, in the Parish Hall. This program will take a break in concert with the school system.
Men’s Saturday Breakfast will held every Saturday, during October at 7am Perkin’s. Join us each
Saturday morning at 7am for fellowship at Perkin’s.
Good Morning Church!
Happy New Year church! As we move into Advent we must also celebrate the new year of the church. Advent marks the beginning of the church year and we are looking forward to hitting the ground running- or hopefully cross country skiing soon! But, before we charge ahead into the dawn of a new year, it is important for us to acknowledge the road we've traveled and those who have made the journey possible.
As we wait patiently for the coming of Emmanuel of must reflect on the hard year we have had in many of our personal lives. I have found that through my own grief journey this year that I have needed my church community more than ever. As a result of this we, as a church, have discerned the need for outlets to express ourselves during these times of trial. We have also discerned a wonderful gift among us.
We have blessed by the ministry of Deacon Bonnie who has led and coordinated our new Grief Support Group. This group is for anyone who has experienced loss and, God knows, many of us have experienced loss. If you have experienced loss and need help processing, please know your clergy is here for you. Also know that we will begin a new session of the Grief Support Group in the Spring. If you are interested in joining the current group, please see the clergy for more details. Deacon Bonnie also has a wonderful gift for pastoral care as many of you know and brings such strength in that area as many of you well know.
This acknowledgment has led me to think about all the people I am grateful for in our church and I would like to take some space to recognize a few of them.
Looking back at the year past, we have been blessed by the presence of new folks who do wonderful tasks for the church. Angela, our new(ish) parish administrator is growing into the role day by day and doing a great job keeping our parish and community informed as well as keeping me straight! Nora Zoller is our new cantor and is doing an amazing job leading of leading our hymns and liturgical music with her wonderful powerful voice during our 10:15 Sunday service- and it also means I can turn off my microphone while singing during our Facebook live services, much to the delight of our viewers! I am also thankful to Pam who plays our music beautifully and is a highlight of our services making sure that we lift a joyful noise unto all the world! Ava Zoller should also be mentioned as she does an amazing job of providing lessons for the kids on Sunday and making sure that I am kept in line......
It would also be very very remise if I did not mention our Church Mom, Julianne. Our Program Director is responsible for much of the stuff you all participate in outside of worship. Youth groups, The Community Tutoring Program, cookouts, concerts, Advent programming, and of course Bingo. These programs are more important than we might sometimes realize and she brings a Montana sense of can do to make sure these events are pulled off with Grace and love. These events and her work bring us together as a family and proves to us that Church is not only Sunday morning. This Church is blessed to have her. I am also thankful to Pam who plays our music beautifully and is a highlight of our services making sure that we lift a joyful noise throughout the world and coordinates our special music!
I am so thankful to the Vestry who makes sure our resources are used wisely and our property is carefully and methodically cared for so we never move into that dreaded "deferred maintenance" zone. There is also the Trinity Guild who works to provide the women of Church a place to be together and make a difference in our community. We cant forget our Men's Group that is shifting from breakfast to service in the church and fellowship. We have some many wonderful people volunteering, making sure things stay replenished.
We are also incredibly blessed to have Mike Moore as our treasurer. Mike does the work of making sure bills are paid, budgeting, day to day care of the endowment, and making sure the staff gets paid. This is a very intense job, I had no idea how intense until my wife became "Canon Wife" and I saw how involved all of these processes are. God Bless you Mike Moore! And speaking of God Bless you- we must always remember how tirelessly our pledge treasurer Ann Thie works to make sure all of our deposits are kept in order and your gifts to the church are well documented- all while being Junior Warden! Also blessings to our Senior Warden, Rich Mulholland - who has taught me so much about leadership proving that your middle aged priest can learn new tricks.
There are also numerous folks who do the work that we sometimes take for granted. There is the Altar Guild, which for the first time ever is staffed by a majority of men! Times do change! There are the Nicholas' who make sure the Votive Stand is ready for prayer, as well as Nancy Hardin who makes sure the linens are clean and pressed!
So, if you thought you would get an Advent message from me on this day, I went where the Spirit led and it led me to say thank you to the gifts given to this church by the work of many. There are those whom I haven't mentioned, but know of my love and appreciation.
And speaking of Advent messages- Rest assured, there will be many messages of expectation and preparation through out Advent. These will of course happen at 8 am on Sunday morning and at 10:15 am in church and on Facebook live!
Hope to see you in church!
Trinity Guild
Trinity Guild will meet the first Tuesday of the Month at 1pm. This month that will be December 5th and will meet for their Christmas luncheon at Perkins, Tuesday, December 19, 2023, 11:30am-1:00pm. All women of the church are welcome; each person pays her own way.
Psalm 24 Entrance into the Temple Of David.
1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
the world, and those who live in it;
2 for he has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob. Selah (pause)
7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah (pause)
Meditation:
I love that old hymn, especially the lines, Who is the King of Glory, how shall we call him? He is Emmanuel, the promised of ages, as well as the lines, Open the gates before him, lift up your voices! But even more, I like that my newest book of Psalms, by Nan C. Merrrill, changes the phrase to Compassionate One. Sure, the rhythm is off for the hymn, but the language fits my heart better.
A couple of things happened this week that reminded me of two important things – the first is that I am thankful that my prayers don’t get answered and the second is to open my heart. One conversation did that, in slightly different words, and a second solidified it.
The first conversation was with a young man at a coffee shop. I’ve never thought of myself as an evangelist, but I embrace the idea of encouraging others. This young man had just finished leading a Bible study with three other men. When the others had left, I approached Cody (I think I’m remembering his name correctly) and asked if I could bless him. He was surprised and pleased, so I laid my hand on his shoulder and asked God to continue to bless the work he was doing. Then I asked Cody to pray for someone who has hurt me who now has cancer. Bless him, Cody prayed for complete spiritual and physical healing, as is right and good.
But I caught myself wondering if I was ready to wish that goodness on this person. I had probably not offered up the best prayers in this regard, so it is good that God listens, but follows a different wisdom than my selfish feelings. It was a timely and difficult reminder that I am human and that I definitely need to open my heart.
I am also reading My Grandfather's Blessings, a book that tells true stories of good events and difficult times and understandings. I highly recommend it. The same author wrote Kitchen Table Wisdom, which is next on my reading list.
So, once again, I give thanks that the earth and all that is in it is the Lord’s, and I trust God with our lives, each and every one of them. I know I’d make a mess of things if I were in charge and I’m glad that God listens to my prayers, listens to my heart, loves me – and doesn’t let me run the universe. I especially thank God that the Holy Spirit continues to find ways to open my heart, wider and wider, and wider still.
In this season of Thanksgiving, let us bless others and may we accept the invitation to continually open the gates of our hearts. Thanks be to God!
I am thankful for each of you! Blessings,
Holly
Altar Guild and Worship participants-
The Church is actively recruiting folks who feel called to help us lead worship as readers and those who are called to help with setting up the altar area for liturgy. This involves maintaining the objects we use during our church services as well as working with the rector and clergy to make sure that everything needed for worship is ready and in place. For some, both roles might seem a little daunting or even scary.
We, as clergy, hope that we can be there to train, help and encourage anyone who feels called to either of these jobs. These jobs are not about perfection. These jobs are about being involved, sharing talents with God, and building the bonds of fellowship. Please let any member of the clergy know if you are interested!
From The Vestry-
The next Vestry meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 19th at 5:30pm our Staff meeting will take place at 4pm immediately preceding the Vestry Meeting. We’re resuming our regular meetings on the third Tuesday of the month, at 5:30pm, in the Parish Hall.
If you have anything you would like brought before the vestry, contact the Rector, Senior Warden, or a member of the vestry and the item will be put on the agenda. Before an item is put on the agenda the vestry asks that one has a conversation with the Rector and/or Wardens before the addition to the agenda is made.
The vestry would also like to remind everyone that the minutes of the vestry are available for viewing in the office from 9 am - 2 pm on Monday through Wednesday and on Thursdays from 9 am - 11 am.
The information available not only includes the minutes, but also includes the financial statements and all correspondence to the vestry. All members of the church are welcome to view these public records during the times listed above.
Blue Christmas Service-
We are honored to be able to provide a new Advent worship service. This is a special service, held on the day of the longest night of the year. The liturgy for this powerful service helps us to acknowledge the loss, troubles, or sorrow that many of us feel during the Advent season and give them to God. This service will take place on December 22, at 1pm in the sanctuary.
Schedule of events for December
First Sunday Homecoming will take place on December 3rd after the 10:15 service- Please bring a side, if you are able, to share a meal and reconnect!
Trinity Guild meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 5th at 1pm in the Parish Hall- We’re resuming our regular meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, at 1 pm, in the Parish Hall.
Advent Card and Ornament workshop will happen on Wednesday, December 6th at 5pm Join us for a wonderful evening of food and creativity led by our artist in residence, Julianne!
Our Traditional Advent Cookie Decorating and Delivery to our neighbors will happen on Wednesday, December 13th at 5pm (please deliver baked cookies tot he parish hall before or on December 12th)
Advent Soup and Supper and Pageant play practice will happen on Wednesday, December 20th at 5pm - bring some soup to share and enjoy a visit from Saint Nicholas!
Blue Christmas Service will take place on Friday, December 22 at 1pm- This service marks the longest night of the year. On this day, many churches in Western Christian denominations hold a church service that honors people that have lost loved ones and are experiencing grief or trouble. (This is a service usually held in the evening, but we wanted to make it available to those who are unable to drive at night)
Reminders of Regularly Scheduled Programs
Our School Tutoring Program continues through the month of December at 3:30pm. We will
host the tutoring program each Monday after school, in the Parish Hall. This program will take a break in concert with the school system.
Men’s Saturday Breakfast will held every Saturday, during October at 7am Perkin’s. Join us each
Saturday morning at 7am for fellowship at Perkin’s.