December 7, 2018
Aloha our beloved parish ‘ohana,
Every year, on the second Sunday of Advent, we hear the story of John the Baptist. The Church has communicated for centuries that if you want to see the newborn babe in the manger, you must first get past John the Baptist, the crazy prophet out in the desert. The tone of his voice is not gentle. John says, “Repent! Turn around and face reality!” And here is the key to his message that disrupts our pre-Christmas festivities: As one commentator puts it: "Facing reality is not the tinsel, the carols, the presents, the holiday meals. It’s not the lawns & houses illuminated with multi-colored lights. It is the reality of the cold and the darkness in our hearts and in our world." John bids us to turn and face the One who God sent to help us. If we truly want “Peace on earth, goodwill towards all” then it must be more than a verse of a hymn we sing. You must first have transformation your own heart and in your own actions.

While John is an essential part of the Christmas story, you would be hard pressed to find a holiday greeting card depicting him! Is it any wonder? “John the Baptist” types are not easy people to have around. They push and prod, pointing out the elephant in the room and asking the hard questions; and when we are unwilling see the truth or unable to think that things can be any different, they follow up with, “Well, why not?!” They have little patience for our excuses.
- -Cartoon by the Rev. Jay Sidebotham
There are many reasons we give up an hour to come to worship. One reason, that may sound a little strange to someone newer to the faith, is that we come to be pushed and prodded a bit. Why? Because down deep we know that sometimes we need someone to love us enough to tell us the truth, especially when it is hard to hear. 

May this be a holy Adventide for you. Hear the voice of the prophets God is sending you.
Peace be with you,

David +

 
Link to the readings for this Sunday:
from Kathy and Michael Kurap

On November 29 last year we arrived in Waimea to spend time with our family. As active members in our Presbyterian church back in Michigan, one of the first things we wanted to do was look for a church. There were many to choose from, but for some reason, the cross on the highway just five minutes from where we were living beckoned to me. So on December 3, 2017, we walked up the sidewalk to meet the St. James community for the first time. David was out front, as he is each Sunday, greeting us with such warmth and kindness that we immediately felt welcome. Once inside, we listened to the choir practicing, touched by the warmth and beauty of this small wooden sanctuary. Marnie noticed our "visitor" leis right away, greeted us with that big smile of hers and has never stopped challenging us to "Stay!" Jane Sherwood, one of the first to introduce herself, invited us to the Community Meal. A sermon that begins with sharks and surfing is not what we salt-free, shark-free Michiganders are used to, but by the time David finished, he had touched our hearts with a message that brought me to tears. On our walk home, we talked about how much the service had meant to us.

Not knowing what "The Community Meal" was actually about, we headed to St. James the morning of Dec. 14th, ready to volunteer to "chop and prep." We were welcomed by one of the biggest smiles on the Island, owned by Sue Dela Cruz, who immediately put us to work among wonderful people too numerous to mention. We cherish our times with them. Thursdays became a special day reserved for St. James' that enriched our spirits in so many ways. 

At the Christmas Eve service, a couple who usually attends the Beach Mass introduced themselves and, thinking we might be alone, invited us to their home because, "No one should be alone on Christmas Eve." We weren't alone but were struck by the kindness of welcoming strangers on that night. What we found at St. James that first Sunday and every week thereafter was Spirit-filled. It was warmth, diversity, acceptance, hospitality and the preaching of God's grace and love straight from the heart.

So we give thanks to the St. James' community for enriching our lives. Thanks to your ministries of love and care, including printed note cards to send to others. Thanks for your leadership in a fabulous Community Meal ministry. Thanks for Godly Play that encourages new children and leaves them wanting to return. Thanks for the "Welcome" magnets that hang on our refrigerator and that of our pastor here at home. Thanks for living the Aloha spirit on that magnet. Thanks be to God for three wonderful pastors/priests to guide your lives, David, Marnie and Linda. We are grateful that God's Providential Spirit, a very special GPS, led us to worship at St. James'. We look forward to coming back to our home church on the Big Island once again.

Kathy and Mickey Kurap (1 Corinthians 1: 4-5)

_____________
 
Do you have a reflection/experience of “Grace at work” in our parish ‘ohana or in the wider community? Don’t keep it to yourself. Share the grace! Please email it to  [email protected] .

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader and our Advent Journey
Wednesdays, December 12 &19 • 5:30 – 7:30 PM  (note time)  • at St. James’
 
This Advent  as we prepare to celebrate the coming of Christ, let's explore the spiritual dimension of the Christian life, as presented by C. S. Lewis in one of the most beloved of the Chronicles of Narnia! In  The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,  spirituality is presented as an adventurous journey over the sea — seeking the home of Aslan, the Noble Lion (who represents Christ). Joining us via Skype from his home in Atlanta will be Christian author Carl McColman, whose book  The Lion, the Mouse and the Dawn Treader  unpacks how C. S. Lewis wove together Celtic mythology and the teachings of the Christian mystics to compose his charming sea adventure. As we journey through the season of Advent, come join in a lively discussion as we reflect on the wisdom of C. S. Lewis who shows us how faith can be an adventure — pointing us toward deeper union with God.

Because of the time zone difference, there are a few changes to this year’s Advent series offering. We’ll begin with potluck at 5:30 PM. At 6 PM, we’ll welcome our guest speaker, after which we will enjoy discussion over coffee and dessert. We will close with our evening prayers.

For now, you are invited to read C.S. Lewis’ The Voyage of the Dawn Treader . In addition, you are invited to read Carl McColman’s book, The Lion, the Mouse and the Dawn Treader  that he’ll be using for his discussions. Copies will soon be available at the parish office to borrow, and it is also available on Amazon for ebook readers.
A little more about our special guest speaker: 
Carl McColman  is a contemplative writer, speaker, retreat leader, catechist and spiritual companion. He is the author of several books, including  Befriending Silence Answering the Contemplative Call , and  The Big Book of Christian Mysticism . He is a life-professed Lay Cistercian (a layperson under formal spiritual guidance of Cistercian monks) affiliated with the Trappist Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, Georgia. He also received formation in the practice of Christian spirituality and contemplative leadership through the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation. Carl and his wife, Fran, are part of the Adult Faith Formation team at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Decatur GA where they work with adults who are preparing for baptism and confirmation.

Carl regularly leads retreats and speaks on the contemplative life at monasteries and retreat centers, cathedrals, parishes and seminaries. His ministry is ecumenical in scope, and he has also participated in a number of interfaith initiatives. He maintains a blog at Patheos ( www.patheos.com/blogs/carlmccolman ) and is the co-host of a podcast,  Encountering Silence  ( www.encounteringsilence.com ) !
         

The Ordination of Jazzy to the Priesthood and Gift from our Parish 'Ohana

Jasmine "Jazzy" Bostock was raised up for ordination from our parish' ohana. She completed her seminary studies at Yale Divinity school and this past year was ordained to the transitional deaconate. On Saturday, December 22, at 10 AM, at Saint Peter's Church in Honolulu, where she is serving as Curate, she will be ordained to the priesthood. all are invited to attend. But if you are on unable to do so, know that Jazzy will be with us the weekend after Christmas, preaching and presiding at all services.

If you would like to give towards her ordination present, please make a check out to St James' Church and Mark for "Jazzy‘s ordination." Pastors are in need of a library for their sermon preparation. We are seeking to provide Jazzy with a set of commentaries on the Sunday morning scriptures entitled “Feasting on the Word." The total cost is approximately $400 for the 12 volume set. You may also give online via the link in our parish newsletter, HERE . O therwise please notify the office by email or telephone of the purpose of your donation.

Please keep Jazzy in your prayers as she begins this new chapter. The Church is greatly blessed that she has answered the call to serve as a priest.

If you would like to reach out and send her a note of support and congratulations, you may do so by emailing her at  [email protected]  or at her postal mailing address:

The Rev. Jazzy Bostock
St. Peter’s Church
1317 Queen Emma St, 
Honolulu, HI 96813
.

Christmas Poinsettias 
It won’t be long before poinsettias will be beautifying the sanctuaries of St. James’ and St. Columba’s. If you would like to make a donation to the poinsettia fund In Memory of or In Honor of a loved one, there is a donation form in the back of the church. The suggested donation is $12 per person you are remembering or honoring. Please submit your forms by no later than Monday, December 17th.  CLICK HERE to fill out the form online. At the end of the online form it will ask you if you want to pay by check or make your donation online using a credit card.

Greening of the Church - St. James'- Saturday,
December 22nd, 9 AM 

St. Columba's - Saturday, December 15th, 10 AM

The Annual Greening of St. James’ Church will be on Saturday, December 22nd from 9 AM unVolunteers will be needed to help with the decorating - this is always a fun time as we ready the Church for the Christmas services.

The more help we get the more fun we have! If you have greens, including cypress, magnolia, cedar, pine, holly, mac nut,  eucalyptus or other long lasting foliage to donate please drop them off at the church on the morning of December 22nd.

Please bring your own gloves and clippers. All other supplies will be provided. If you have questions please contact Terri Greenwell at 885-8038. 

St. Columba’s will be greened on Saturday, December 15th, at 10 AM. If you have greens to donate please drop them off at St. Columba’s on Saturday morning.

UNDER THE RAINBOW
Rainbow after the 7:30 AM service this past Sunday.

Pictured above, left to right: Everett Knowles, The Rev. Canon Dave Coon, Joanne Coon, David, our rector, and Herritt Knox. Mahalo Walter Knox for the photo!

Welcome New Members!

The start of the Advent marked a new chapter in 13 people's lives among us, as they were welcomed as official members of our parish 'ohana. Some have been here for several years or months, others much newer, but all honored their baptismal promise to find a place that would nurture, strengthen and challenge them in their Christian walk. We offer them our warmest aloha.
 
Scott, Braylen, and McKenzie Bryon
James & Victoria McKinney
Martha Massey
Barbara May
Elisa Mazkour
Eric, Jeanne, and Genevieve Savage
Michael Thompson
Connie Young

Marnie preached on how our Advent waiting has been answered in their coming forward to be welcomed. Let your new brothers and sisters know how glad we are that they took away our waiting! Seek them out and welcome them individually.
 
The next Welcome Weekend, for those already baptized and who desire to make this their parish home, will be after the first of the year. The next baptisms will be Saturday, December 15th at the 5 PM Beach Mass and on Sunday, January 13, at the 9 AM Eucharist at St. James'. Spread the Word! Speak to any of our clergy about either.
St. Columba's Advent Study Group
THE REAL GOD
How He Longs for You to See Him
by Chip Ingram

There is a deep sense of unease in our rapidly changing world. We all know something has been lost but don’t know why or where it all leads. Popular culture says it’s all about me – that the end justifies the means, that love means self-satisfaction, that status and appearance are what count. And this ultimately self-destructive perspective has thoroughly infiltrated the church as confusion replaces conviction. The way back, the path of hope, starts with knowing God for who He really is. 

In this in-depth study of seven attributes of God – His goodness, sovereignty, holiness, wisdom, justice, love, and faithfulness – you’ll see Him in a whole new light. It will change the way you think about God, yourself, and others. You will pray and live with a deep peace and a renewed purpose as you see Him as He longs to be seen. 
            
Please join us at St. Columba's in Pa'auilo on Wednesday evenings from 5 to 7 PM ending on December 19th . B ring supper along with your desire to learn.  Each session will begin with a DVD lesson, watched while we eat.  Discussion and prayer will follow as we enjoy dessert and decaf coffee! Everyone is welcome and you do not need to be present at each lesson. Come and learn how God wants us to know Him!
Advent began this past Sunday with beautiful music from our talented musicians. Mahalo to Joe Miyazaki and Chris Kirchhoffer!! Our Hope candle was lit by Napo Silva. Mahalo to Napo for always being so eager to give of himself. Our church is truly blessed. 
A Needed Gift At Just The Right Time!

A huge mahalo to Eric Ewing and Bruce Redman for the gift of the washer and dryer to the St. Columba’s Vicarage. Mahalo to Hans L’Orange for his help in picking them up and to Malu Lindsey for taking them over to St. Columba’s and installing them. Their gift came just at the right time, as the vicarage dryer just went on the blink, and the washer had not been working right for several months. 
           
Much of the compensation to our Associate Rector of our St. Columba’s Congregation and Evangelism on the Hamakua Coast, the Rev. Linda Lundgren and her husband, Bob, is providing housing. Our making them comfortable and having all in working order is vital to keeping up our end of our arrangement. On behalf of your parish ‘ohana, mahalo for helping us to do just that!
 
Salvation Army Bell Ringing
 
St. Columba's will be ringing the Salvation Army bells again this year in front of Malama Market in Honoka'a on Tuesday, December 18th from 8am to 6pm. Anyone wanting to take a time slot please call Rev. Linda at 808-323-2627. This is a wonderful ministry and the Salvation Army does amazing work on the island. If you can spare two hours, please come and ring!
Christmas Cookies
 
St. Columba's cookie bakers will be providing Christmas cookie bags for the Community Meal on Thursday, December 20th. Sunday, December 16th after the service, will be our cookie packing day. Anyone who loves to bake cookies, please bring your cookies that Sunday so we can make our Christmas cookie bags for the upcoming Community Meal. All flavors and kinds of cookies are encouraged and so very welcome! Mahalo for your support of the Community Meal Ministry.
Here We Come a Caroling!!!

St. Columba's first annual Christmas Caroling will begin after the service and light lunch on Sunday December 23rd!!  Come join us as we bring the Spirit of Christmas to the homes of Pa'auilo. . Song sheets will be provided so no need to stay away if you don't remember the words. And all voices are welcome!! High voices, low voices, young voices and not so young voices. All of God's children singing to the Glory of God! What could be better!!

ADVENT BY THE SEA.
KAWAIHAE HARBOR, SATURDAY 5 PM


Volunteer Opportunity to help support the Canoe Club that provides space for our Beach Mass

The Canoe Club is having a Work Day this coming Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM. You can help and still get back to Beach Mass!
Details Below:

"Aloha Kākou!
As you may well know, Makali`i is in dry dock at Māhukona. We will have a work day this Saturday, December 8, 2018 at Māhukona from 8a to 4p. Please join us if you can!
We will provide water and light snacks. Please bring your lunch, dress comfortably, but also bring long pants and shoes as there will be a lot of sanding etc. going on.
Let us know if you have any questions! Hope to see you there.
Mahalo,
Nā Kālai Wa`a “
Upcoming at Beach Mass - baptism, December 15, 5:00 PM
Peggy Rein, Patricia Eckstrom, Sarah, Gloria Seiden, Narcisa Yagin, Menelio Balmilero, Nicole Anderson, Marlene Thees, Trevor, Carl Stanforth, Alan Ackerman, Brad Young, Monica Parker, Gladys Takeya, Gerry Goodenough, Monique Abbasi, Jack A, IsaacDeRego, James Knox Everett,  Riley Furlong, Jerry Reyla, Debbie Gaines, Israel Kahoopii, Pedro Ka'awaloa, Eleanor, Nathan Lee, Ted Lindsey, Jane Cook & Family, Eleanor Mendias, Mark & Kay Segal, Maurice Cecil &  Pukaua Summer Sommers, Betty Santorio, Cheyanna Lahnum, Jesse Osmun, Art-Andre (Petit) Dieme, Patrick OʻBrien, Pegi Young,  Helen Cronk, Shin Runkel, Mary Avery, Alex Ka'aua, the Reyes family, Paterno Balmilero, Jeff Morrell, Vicky Tagaca, Victor Wusstig, Maelle Wolf, Steven, Kaipo Young, Coe Atherton, Annette LaBonte, Pat Holiday, Nancy Davidson, Dr. Jill Fishback Chambers, Karen Sanchez, The Rev. Katherine Cunningham, Tony Abbott, Verna Chartrand, Elizabeth Babin McCarthy, Guy Piltz, Pricilla Bertleman, AnneMarie Kennedy, Bobbi Stewart , Greg Sliva, Katy Grainger, Eli Ching, Shawn & Stephanie, Michael Mangarin, Heidi Barnett, Rik Mangarin, Theresa Ka'aekuahiwi, Diane Feeney, Gael Burke, Leta Shattuck, Colin Tiplady, Jennifer Olsen, Marguerite Zeman-Wilson ++
If you would like to be added to the Prayer List or would like to add someone else (please get their permission first), call the parish office at 808-885-4923 or email at  [email protected]  by the Tuesday before you would like the name to appear in the bulletin. Please mention 'Prayer List' in the Subject line of the email to Jacque so that she knows it's not a spam email from someone she doesn't know personally.
  
Names will remain on the list for 4 weeks. You must then request to have the name added again.  
In the back of the church are note cards. Please take 5 to 10 cards and envelopes home with you. Use them to reach out to one another and those in the wider community.  
Please keep in your thoughts and prayers parishioners who are unable to be with us in worship. Please reach out to them and let them know they are missed. 
Gerry Goodenough          
PO Box 988                
Kamuela, HI 96743         

Tepa Farias 
PO Box 1152 
Kamuela, HI 96743 
 
Alexandra "Alex" Ka'au'a
67-5165 Kamamalu St Apt 19B
Kamuela, HI 96743

Coe Atherton
c/o Tripper Atherton
144 Stone Pointe Trail
Castle Rock, CO 80109

Rev. Guy Piltz
Hale Ho'ola Hamakua
Attn: Guy Piltz, Room 111
45-547 Plumeria St, Honokaa, HI 96727

Theresa Kaaekuahiwi
PO Box 673
Kamuela, HI 96743

Rehab Hospital of the Pacific
Attn: Diane Feeney, Room 409
226 N Kuakini St, 
Honolulu, HI 96817
 
Leta Shattuck
65-1272 Ki Road
Kamuela, HI 96743

Do you know of someone else to whom we could reach out?
Please get their permission first, then contact the parish office to have them added to the list. email here or telephone at 808-885-4923
Birthdays:  Landy Luther, Jeanne Abe, Bob Masuda, Britt Bailey, Jerry Kubo, Joyce Horie, Kehaulani Prieto
Remembrances:  Sam Kimura




This ministry is an outreach of love and prayer through the knitting and crocheting of shawls for individuals who are ill, in mourning or in need of comfort. Prayers are offered at the beginning and during the creation of the shawls and lap blankets. When they are completed they are blessed at one of our worship services and sent to those in need.
Sharing love around the world with Prayer Shawls
This prayer shawl, blessed at Beach Mass, was delivered by parishioners Lorrie Dillion and Paul Willard, to Colin, pictured with wife Lynne, on the South Island, New Zealand.
Parishioner, Dallas Burr, has oversight of this important pastoral ministry. If you know of anyone who is in need or if you wish to be part of this ministry of blessing, talk with Dallas after worship (an usher will be glad to make an introduction) or contact her through the parish office.
from Susan Acacio, Parish Youth Ministries Coordinator
Godly Play Blocks
Debi Brun did an amazing job of sharing the Advent Story with the keiki. They are very excited to hear the rest of the story over the next several weeks. They know that something amazing is about to happen. This is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Last weeks story was all about the Holy Family.
 

Below right - Susan displays keiki Advent Artwork!
 
A few pictures from this week's class. Amongst the songs we are learning, we started practicing the 'ole' Gospel song, "I love to tell the story." We are aiming to sing it in worship in January. We meet every Wednesday in the church from 3 - 4 PM. Come join us!
 

After School Tutoring and Ukulele resumed on Wednesday, November 28 th  in the church. Tutoring begins at 1:30 and Ukulele begins at 3:00. All ages welcome for both programs. You don’t need to be a teacher to help with tutoring. Our younger keiki love reading stories, and love being read to.
 
Mahalo to all who supported our Sum er Church Camp Fundraiser buy purchasing See’s Candy at the Christmas Bazaar. We apologize if your candy was melted. Please know that we are working with See’s Candy on this. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Susan Acacio.
 
Our Annual Christmas Pageant will be performed on Christmas Eve at our 5PM service. There are many opportunities for our youth and keiki to participate in “Let’s Keep God’s Love in Christmas”. 

And don’t forget about our Nursery At Small World Preschool during our 9AM service. Mahalo to our Nursery providers Suzette, Hanah and Henia.
 
For questions or further information on any of our programs, please contact Susan Acacio at  [email protected]  or call 808-895-2086.
 
Upcoming Youth Events
 
Keiki Ukulele group began Wednesday, November 7 in the Church from 3PM-4PM and will continue on Wednesdays after the After School Tutoring Program. We are looking for keiki ages 8 to 18 to learn Ukulele from the Aunties. Please register early. Space is limited to 20 keiki. Adults who want to learn to play or volunteer are always welcome.
 
Sundays: Godly Play in the Spencer Building 8:55AM. Nursery in Small World Pre-School 8:30AM-10:30AM.

Teen Tech Tutors - Next Date to be determined: Kupuna  (Seniors):  Bring your iPhone, iPad, Android Phone or Tablet, e-Reader (Kindle or Nook), or laptop, Our Teen Tech Tutors will be available to assist you with your technology and Internet questions



Save the date: January 4, 2019 from 5-7PM. We will host “One Starry Night” in the pavilion as part of our 12 Days of Christmas. We encourage families to attend. Dinner will be served. Contact Susan Acacio to register.
 
For more information on our Programs, to register, or to volunteer, please contact Susan Acacio 895-2086,  [email protected]
 
I always welcome any suggestions, comments, ideas or prayers. Please feel free to contact me at any time with any questions, or to volunteer.
Susan Acacio, 
Youth Ministry Coordinator  
(808) 895-2086
Thrift Store Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon is this Sunday, December 9 , at Anna’s Ranch, Noon – 2 PM

A Huge Mahalo to all our our faithful volunteers!! We can't do it without each and every one of YOU!
Thrift Shop Cashiers
Nina Disbro


Nina Disbro, 
Thrift Store Ministry Coordinator
from Steve Kittell, photos by Jeanne Savage and Tim Bostock
BIG BROCCOLI NIGHT!
Thanks to a donation of 2 pallets of broccoli from Costco, we had a lot of broccoli. Our main entree was Broccoli Beef but we also had veggie Broccoli Soup, 2 types of broccoli salad, rice, roasted potatoes, baked tomatoes, bread, green salad, potato salad and baked desserts. It was a hearty meal on a blustery winter night.

We served 254 meals in the Pavilion (including 42 keiki) plus 82 deliveries for a grand total of 336 meals. Head Wok Chef Mel Pobre and his excellent wok crew of John, Henry, Stanley & Sean worked hard to make the hearty and plentiful beef broccoli.

Our own Dagan Bernstein provided rousing music accompanied by Brad & Jeff.

A HUGE MAHALO NUI LOA TO OUR SPONSORS OF THE DINNER, BIG ISLAND GIVING TREE AND PAU PIZZA. Big Island Giving Tree, led by Rhonda Bell filled the serving line from start to finish with smiles and great energy. We also had students from HPA, Parker and Waimea Middle School so we had a wealth of volunteers. 

And of course, we could not have done it without our wonderful volunteers for prep, cooking, set up, deliveries and clean up.

Another great night at Community Meal.
Parker School girls helping to pack meals in the kitchen for delivery to beaches and to senior centers. From right: Eloize, Zoe, Anna, Debbie, Stanley and Kiku. Meal coordinator Sue is in the back!
Mahalo to this week's meal sponsors, Big Island Giving Tree and Pau Pizza. They brought staff, family and friends to assist with serving. HPA, Parker and Waimea also had servers.


We are being Blessed!
Can you help?

We have built a relationship with Costco to donate fresh produce and other goodies to our community meal.

Every Wednesday morning (6:30 a.m.) we go to Costco to pick up a truck bed full of fresh produce.

I am looking for someone with a truck or cargo van that can help with this morning run.

If you are able to help, please contact me ASAP.

Smiles, Sue

[email protected]  or 498-7383.  








Sue dela Cruz
Community Meal Ministry Coordinator
Paper bark trees at St. James’

Your vestry has sought to care for the beloved trees on our property. We have been catching up on needed maintenance of both building and grounds. A year or so ago, after much rainfall saturating the soil, one of the tall and heavy paper bark trees by the pavilion fell uprooted due to the ground being soaked and the weight and height of the tree. Fortunately, no one was hurt and the tree fell away from Everett's home. A few weeks ago a good size branch fell. Again, fortunately, no one was hurt. The branch also missed the car it fell near.
 
The vestry recently had an arborist examine the trees. It was recommended to take 20% of the top of all trees. This is something that would need to be done every 3 - 5 years. The cost of continued maintenance was weighed. While none likes the idea of removing the trees, it was deemed the right decision based on the facts presented.
 
Again, this was not a decision made lightly. Our participation in the care of the ‘aina is a fundamental part of our stewardship of God's creation on our island home.
 
Always, please let any of your vestry know if you have thoughts, concerns, hopes regarding our mission and stewardship of out sacred spaces and grounds. The Parish Office can put you in touch with them. 
 
Please pray and think also about serving in the ministry of a vestry person. We will soon be taking nominations; and, at our annual parish meeting, on Sunday, January 27, we will elect new members.
 
Also, all are invited to attend vestry meetings. The next scheduled meeting is Monday, December 17, at 10 AM, in the parish office.

In Christ's Service,
 
Your Vestry
A gentle reminder, please do not turn in at the exit onto the church property. We had a close call the other day and want to make sure that everybody is safe, especially our keiki who have a tendency to run a little faster than we adults.
Volunteer Opportunities and Community Needs
Painter Still Needed

Our sign needs a fresh coat of paint. Especially the green background and the white letters. Who would be willing to take on this project?

Our sign is on the front line of our reaching out to passersby. Please help make it shine again!

Contact the parish office if you can help. [email protected]
The holidays are here! Can you help by donating your Foodland coupons for the Community Meal?
Needed: Help bringing donated items inside off the Thrift Store Lanai


Does your schedule bring you by St. James’ in the later evening? Would you be willing to stop by the Thrift Store and bring items donated after hours inside? We are trying to reduce the amount of donations left out overnight. We often come into to find things scattered and gone through. If you can help, even one day a week, contact Nina at the Thrift Store by Email or phone, at  [email protected]  or 885-4923.
Bookworm? Bibliophile? Library Lover?
We have a place for you!
 



 Library substitutes are needed for Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9:00AM to 1:00PM. Check in with Nina, at the Thrift Store, if you can help

Monthly Women's Bible Study
SPECIAL NOTICE - Women's Bible Study postponed to December 14
The Women’s Bible Study meets next on Friday, December 14 in the Church from 10-12. We are making an in depth study of Mary, the mother of Jesus. All women are welcome. Bring your friends! 

Noon Bible Study   at the Piltz's Home in Kanehoa subdivision
Bible study will be on hiatus for the immediate future. We are all praying for our study leader, Guy's, speedy and complete recovery.

Scripture Readings for this Weekend
Presiding Bishop Curry's On-line Bible Study
Bishop's Bible Study

The Most Reverend Michael Curry, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, will be with us in the Diocese of Hawaiʻi on March 22-24, 2019. Please mark your calendars particularly for Friday...

Read more
www.episcopalhawaii.org
Education for Ministry - EfM
Recruiting for the next program year has begun. New program participants can sign up beginning in November for the study year beginning in January. Contact Mentors John Sucke or Elsbeth McKeen through the church office at [email protected] . For additional information about the program see the brief video HERE
Wisdom Corner
"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."
~ C.S. Lewis
FORGIVENESS

We can compare God’s forgiveness with the shade of a tree. If I were to walk up to a tree one very hot and sunny day, and, standing just out of its shade, ask “tree, please shade me,” the tree might reply that the shade has been here all along, and all I have to do is let myself be with it.
-Br. Nicholas Bartoli , SSJE




An Episcopal Monastery in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
   
A Prayer for the End of Day
"Grant, O God that we lie down in peace , and rise up to life renewed. Spread over us the shelter of Your peace."

Vestry, Junior Warden, & Parish Delegates to the Diocesan Convention

In the back of the church, and via a link in the newsletter, HERE, are nomination forms for three ministry positions - Vestry, Junior Warden and Parish Delegate to the Diocesan Convention.

We will vote at our Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 27th. You are welcome to nominate yourself or someone else. Please obtain the person’s permission first before nominating someone.

Please prayerfully consider these ministry positions. A description of each ministry position and qualifications are listed on the forms. Deadline for nominations is December 30th.
 
VESTRY MINUTES
CLICK HERE to read the approved minutes from the November vestry meeting.

The next vestry meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 17 at 10 AM in the Parish Office. All are welcome to attend.

We will elect new vestry members at our Annual Parish Meeting in January. Please prayerfully consider serving in this ministry.
Midweek Worship
Every Wednesday 
Morning Prayer, 9 AM 

Every Wednesday, at 9 AM in St. James' church, we offer the service of Morning Prayer. This is a beautiful way to begin one's day. The service of Morning Prayer, also known as Matins, is one of the two main Daily Offices in the Episcopal church. One of the beautiful aspects of Morning and Evening Prayer is that as you pray the office you are praying it with thousands of people around the world who are also engaged in these same or similar prayers. In addition, during the service, we will be incorporating the reading of the names on our parish prayer list. Please come and join us in prayer. 
"Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." 
Romans 15:7 
E Komo Mai!



If you are already baptized, and desire to make this parish 'ohana your parish 'ohana, then do not hesitate to contact David+, our rector, or any of our clergy, if you have questions about becoming a member of our parish.

If you are not baptized, the next scheduled baptism will be December 15 at Beach Mass.



Up-coming Parish Events at a Glance

Thrift Store Christmas Store Opens
Saturdays, through December 22

Teen Tech
Next date to be determined. Teens assist Seniors with electronics and social media - Kupuna bring your smart phones, I-pads, e-readers and other tech. Sundays ,  from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm in the Spencer Building. Check with Susan Acacio for next date.

Women's Bible Study
Rescheduled - December 14, 10 AM to 12 Noon, St. James'

Advent Evensong & Study at St. James', Waimea
Voyage of the Dawn Treader and our Advent Journey, Wednesdays, December 12 & 19
5:30 - 7:30 PM (Potluck Soup & Salad dinner)

Advent Study at St. Columba's, Pa'auilo
Continuing with The Real God study series, Wednesdays, December 12 & 19
5 - 7 PM (Bring your supper with you)

Thrift Store Ministry Volunteer Party at Anna's Ranch
Sunday, December 9
Noon - 2 PM

Ordination of Jazzy Bostock to the Priesthood
December 22, 10 AM at St. Peter’s Church, Honolulu.
NOTE: If you cannot attend, Jazzy will be with us at the Beach Mass and St. James' on the weekend after Christmas. She will be preaching and officiating at all three services.

Greening of the Churches
December 22, in the morning at St. James’ and at 10:00 AM December 15 and 16 at St. Columba’s.

Thrift Store Closed
December 24, 2018 to January 5, 2019

Christmas Eve, December 24,
At St. James':
5 PM Christmas Pageant & Carols 5 PM
7:30 PM Christ-Mass by Candlelight with choir, carols, hula, and Christmas message.

At St. Columba's:
5:30 PM Christ-Mass by Candlelight with carols and Christmas message.

Christmas Day, December 25
At St. James':
9 AM December 25 A Blessed Christmas Morn Holy Eucharist with favorite carols, accompanied by trumpet and soloist 9 AM

New Year’s Day – Office Closed
Tuesday, January 1

One Starry Night Children's Program
January 4, 5 to 7 PM

Epiphany
January 6

Martin Luther King Day – Office Closed
Monday, January 21

President’s Day – Office Closed
Monday, February 18




For Full Parish Calendar,  CLICK HERE
Presiding Bishop offers tribute to Former President...

December 1, 2018] The following statement from Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry is in tribute to Former President George Herbert Walker Bush. With a grateful nation, and many around the world, we of the Episcopal Church give thanks ...

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mailchi.mp
Advent Resources
Journeying the Way of Love

For the season of Advent, Journeying the Way of Love offers four sessions to be explored as we await the coming of Christ by moving through the first two chapters of the Gospel of Luke. Luke's gospel provides a pattern for understanding how we...

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www.episcopalchurch.org
Advent 2018 - Forma

In 2017, Forma, the network for Christian Formation and The Diocese of Virginia began a partnership to provide support and resources to the wider church. ...

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www.forma.church
Advent Observances: Sarum Blue

Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical new year and is a time when we ponder the coming of Christ in time, as the Babe of Bethlehem, and at the end of time as our Judge and Redeemer. The word advent comes to us from the Latin meaning to come.

As way to mark this season of expectation and hope, we wear blue vestments. This is a recovery of an ancient English tradition stemming from Salisbury Cathedral, and so it is referred to as sarum blue. (Sarum being the ancient Latin name for Salisbury.) While the deep blue conveys a feeling of solemnity, because of its association with the Blessed Virgin Mary, it also conveys the Advent themes of hope and expectation. On the Third Sunday of Advent, we light the pink/rose candle, marking that Sunday as Gaudete Sunday, reflecting the opening words of the ancient introit appointed for the day: Rejoice in the Lord, always!

-- From the Episcopal monastery Society of Saint John the Evangelist) ( ssje.org )
This year's Christmas catalog is here, and we're excited for you to see all of the life-changing gifts!

Each item has something very special to offer–different ways you can  light a path to prosperity for people worldwide.

For example, when you give  Care for Moms & Newborns , you're helping a mother and her child stay healthy. When you give a  Goat , you're illuminating a path to sustainable nourishment. And when you introduce someone to the power of  Savings and Loan Groups , you're helping them achieve financial security.
Quick Links to Diocese Information
In the Wider Community
What's going on in the Neighborhood?


The Waimea Community Association maintains a comprehensive calendar of civic and social events in Waimea.  CLICK HERE  to check out what is happening, where and when in our area. 

Tutu's House offers many free or low cost activities. Their calendar is  HERE

What's on at the Kahilu? Check  HERE
 
The Waikoloa Village Association publishes a monthly newsletter covering events in Waikoloa.   CLICK HERE for the current issue of The Breeze. 

Waikoloa Beach Resort has a monthly calendar of free and for fee events.   CLICK HERE for the current issue. 

The Shops at Mauna Lani Resort’s Calendar of Events is HERE  

And Konaweb publishes an Islandwide calendar HERE
Last Laughs
Quick Links
St. James' Episcopal Church, 65-1237 Kawaihae Road, Kamuela (Waimea), HI 96743|
P.O. Box 278
Kamuela, HI 96743-0278
 
Office: 808-885-4923