"We gather as one humanity at God’s Table. We share a journey of discovery as a welcoming community of ever-deepening faith. We rejoice in serving one another and our neighbors through the love and grace of God in Christ. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are part of the tapestry that makes us one."

Sunday, Dec. 22

Advent IV

The Rev. Amanda McGriff

Celebrant and Preacher

8:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

Nursery, Children's Chapel (livestreamed at 10:30 a.m. also posted later in the day)

11:45 a.m. Coffee Hour

Music for 10:30 service by Dr. Stephen Karr, Director of Music Ministry with Coventry Choir, and assistance of Kane Bradley, Music Assistant

Christmas Eve, Dec. 24

The Rev. Dr. Dorothy White

Celebrant and Preacher

4:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist with Blessing of the Creche, Children's Pageant, Music by Brass Ensemble, Coventry Section Leaders and St. Cecelia (children's) Choir

(livestreamed at 4:00 p.m. also posted later)

7:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist

Music by Sanctifica Wind Ensemble

10:30 p.m. Festival Holy Eucharist

Music by Brass Ensemble and Coventry Choir

(livestreamed at 10:30 p.m. also posted later in the evening)



Music for services by Dr. Stephen Karr, Director of Music Ministry with assistance of Kane Bradley, Music Assistant.

Christmas Day

The Rev. Dr. Dorothy White

Celebrant and Preacher

10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

Music for 10:30 service by Sanctifica and by Dr. Stephen Karr, Director of Music Ministry.

Sunday, Dec. 29

The Rev. Amanda McGriff

Celebrant and Preacher

10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

Christmas Lessons & Carols



Music for all services by Dr. Stephen Karr, Director of Music Ministry with assistance of Kane Bradley, Music Assistant.

The Season of Advent & Christmas

The Advent color of Marian Blue continues until the lighting of the Christ Candle in the Advent wreath on Christmas Eve, the color for Christmas is White and also for the following Sunday.

Worship with us In-Person or Online

We continue to provide a worship service online each Sunday,  livestreamed at 10:30 a.m. on our YouTube Channel and on Facebook then recorded and posted on our YouTube page and our Facebook page for later viewing. You can also access these from the front page of our website at https://stgchurch.org under Worship or Sunday Schedule by clicking wherever our YouTube channel is mentioned.

NOTE: Our previous worship service videos are archived on our YouTube page.

NEW Worship Changes

Eucharist We have returned to the use of the common cup during the Holy Eucharist. We will continue to provide the opportunity for intinction from a separate chalice as well. If you wish to intinct only, receive the bread from the priest or lay eucharistic minister (LEM) and step further to the side to the LEM holding a chalice. Gluten free bread and non-alcoholic wine are available at the side station.

Announcements will be made following the Sharing of the Peace.

Service Time Change: Beginning December 1st, Advent I, our service times will change to 8:30 a.m. for the early service; the second service will remain at 10:30 a.m.

Note: On Christmas Day and the following Sunday, Dec. 29, we will have one service only at 10:30 a.m.

Children are so very welcome at St. George’s!

Families, please know that children’s activity bags can be found in the Narthex! These bags include activities to help your entire family talk about the day’s scripture lessons. Please place bags in the basket under the coat rack after use so that we can refill them with supplies!

Children's Chapel

We offer Worship and Wonder (PK-5th) in Classroom B, and Our Journey with God (6th-12th) in Classroom A during our 10:30 a.m. service. Your children will experience an age-appropriate lesson based on the lectionary shared in the service. Additional teachers are needed, contact Karrie at Karrie@stgeorgesgermantown.org if you would be willing to help as a teacher.

Healing Prayers each Sunday

If you would like to have healing prayers for yourself or through you for a family member or friend, members of the Order of the Daughters of the King or clergy will be available in the chapel in the back of the nave to administer healing prayers with laying on of hands and anointing if desired. Just go back to the chapel after you take communion or at the end of the service where they will meet you for prayer.

Coming Events

Dec. 19 - Room In The Inn Host Night

Dec. 20 - Flying Solo

Dec. 22 - Advent IV

Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Services: Children's Pageant & Blessing of the Creche (4:00 pm), Family Service (7:30 pm); Midnight Service (10:30 pm)

Dec. 25 - Christmas Morning Service (10:30 am), Office Closed

Dec. 26 - Office Closed

Dec. 29 - 1st Sunday after Christmas Day, Lessons & Carols with Holy Eucharist, one service at 10:30 am

Dec. 31 - Office closes at 12 pm

Looking Ahead

Jan 01 - Office Closed

Jan 02 - Room In The Inn Host Night

Jan 05 - Epiphany Sunday, Soup, Salad and S'mores Supper" with evening compline from 5:30 pm to 7 pm. 

Jan 11 & 18 - New Watercolor painting class 

Jan 12 - Sunday, Baptism of Our Lord, Jesus Christ

Jan 14 - Book Club

Weekly Events

Sunday – St. George's Consort and Sanctifica Rehearsals

Monday - EfM meets 6:45 in the Library

Tuesday – Tai Chi, 6:30 pm in the Activity Center

Wednesday – DOK hosts a Bible Study (10 am) / Coventry Choir rehearsal 7pm Thursday - Exultemus rehearsal / Thursday Night Bible Study, 7 - 9 pm Online

A Message From the Treasurer

There are two Sundays remaining, and then the books will close on 2024. In December, we typically receive 10% of our annual pledges and gifts. Because pledge revenue dipped more than usual in November this year, we have even more ground to catch up than usual to close out the year. Please check your records to see if your pledge is up to date.  If you are able to complete your pledge this year, please do so when you can. If you need extra time, please contact the church office. That information will help the Vestry in its financial planning for next year. 

St. George’s enjoys a strong track record of stewardship, and we are indeed thankful for your support.

Thank you, each and all.

 Jim Vogel

Treasurer

Note: Office Schedule for Christmas and New Year's weeks

Office Closed Dec. 25 & 26, Open Dec. 30 and until 12 noon on Dec. 31. All offerings must be received or postmarked by Dec. 31 to count as 2024 gifts.

Special Christmas Offerings

We encourage your special Christmas Offerings for Christmas Flowers and Decor, Musicians who will enhance our Christmas Eve worship, or for Christmas Offerings for the general fund. There are envelopes in the pews of these offerings or you can use the QR code or Giving button listed above.

Greetings once again! I want to start by thanking everyone who has so graciously pledged during our current stewardship campaign. While all gifts to the Church ministries are such a blessing, pledges are a great way to help St. George's budgeting process for the coming year. We have so many ministries doing so much for so many people. It's always a positive to have a good idea going into the new year of what we have available to continue, and hopefully grow, those ministries. 

Additionally, I want to reiterate that giving should come from the heart. We all go through multiple seasons in our lives that put us in positions to help others in more or less ways. Depending on your season, you could be in a position to give generously or not. Under no circumstances should anyone feel shame or pain in your heart if your current season doesn't allow for giving as it might have in the past. We are all here to support each other, the Church, and the community at large as we are able. Please know that we are all so grateful for the pledges of time & talents that our parishioners are able to make in a given season, and we are also anxious to assist if that is not your current season. As a Church family, our support and care for each other should be paramount.

As we wrap up the fall pledge campaign, we will soon turn our attention to the non-monetary part of stewardship. I encourage everyone to take a look at the many great ministries administered by St. George's and determine if you feel called to assist. To be painfully honest, I have often historically been of the mentality that "someone else will handle that". As I mentioned in a previous article for the TIP, my love of St. George's has grown tremendously over the past couple years driven mostly by the incredible positive impact the EYC ministry has had on my children. Karrie and team have created such a loving and friendly environment of which our kids love to be a part. This has impacted mine and Brandi's desire to help more where we can. Even in the midst of our current Rector search, I can feel such a positive energy in my interactions with everyone. I'd be remiss to not give a shout out and some of the credit to our amazing interim Rector, Dorothy, for her awesome contributions to our Church family.

On behalf of the Stewardship committee, I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and happy New Year's. We are all so appreciative of all of you. I can't wait to see what 2025 has in store for for this parish and our community. You are all the best!

Jon Sharp

Stewardship Committee

We are at 95% of our goal. We have about 15 households still to hear from. Please try to submit your pledge by the end of the year. For those who have already pledged, you should have received a thank you letter acknowledging your contribution for 2025. We are truly grateful that you share in our ministry together.  If you have not pledged previously, you can reach out to the church office or use the QR code below, and let us know how you’d like to contribute.  

Giving Online

Just use this QR code or button below, to give or to pledge! It’s that simple! We thank you for your support! 

To pledge time and offerings, you can use the link below, click on the QR code or contact the church office. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Jim Vogel, Treasurer

On Sunday December 15, the Vestry awarded the contract for the last piece of our 2023 Capital Campaign. Early next year, we will be getting a new lighting system with updated electronic controls in the sanctuary. Once completed, that will conclude the $410,000 improvement program thanks to hard work of the church staff and officers plus very generous giving from dozens of contributors at St. George's. Last year the Vestry asked for total congregational gifts of at least $200,000. Versus the pledged amount of $250,000 we have received slightly in excess of that amount. The balance of the money came from reserves that had been set aside for major improvements. We were able to pay for every part of the master plan, plus several add-ons prompted by the uplifting spirit of renewal that accompanied a new roof and other necessities. 

The 2023 Capital Campaign was the third in the last five years. St. George’s vitality and commitment to its work is evident from the $600,000 in congregational gifts that funded those three major fund raising efforts. 

For those who would like a more detailed accounting of each project and each funding source, please contact Jim Vogel jmvogel@comcast.net for more information.

Jim Vogel, Treasurer

We Host Room in the Inn at the Cottage Tonight, Dec. 19

If you'd like to come by to help set up, or to meet our guests and chat with them at dinner time, join us at 5:30 p.m. at The Cottage (across from Germantown United Methodist Church and just down a few doors from The Commissary.

We Filled our Full Quota of Coats and Christmas Food Boxes for the Emmanuel Center

Thanks to everyone who shared in our opportunity to share with the families served by Emmanuel Center! Last Sunday the Narthex was filled with 51 festively wrapped Christmas boxes and 43 coats for the kids at Emmanuel Center. Thanks again for your support of these annual projects in support of the Emmanuel Center and their families.

Epiphany Supper and Compline, Sunday, January 5

We hope everyone will make plans to join us for a special Epiphany "Soup, Salad and S'mores Supper" with Evening Compline on Sunday, January 5th from 5:30pm to 7 pm. We will begin with food and fellowship in the Parish Hall, have s'mores over the firepit and then proceed to the Nave for Compline led by the youth. There will be Epiphany activities for children. Youth will meet at 4:30 pm in Classroom A to prepare for the compline service. Please RSVP to Karrie by January 1st if you plan to attend. If you are able to bring a crock pot of soup, donate an item for the event or assist with setup/clean up, please contact Karrie LaCroix. Director of Children/Family/Youth Ministry

Annual Meeting Coming in January,

Annual Reports Due, Nominations for Vestry Members and Diocesan Convention Delegates Needed

Eileen needs Ministry Head reports as soon as possible (December 18) for inclusion in the Church Annual Report to be sent out prior to the Annual Meeting.

First, January 26, 2025 following the 10:30 am service, we will have our Parish Annual Meeting and lunch at which we will elect five new members of the Vestry. If you would like to be a part of seeing our congregation’s dreams and visions come to fruition, serving on the Vestry is a great way to do it. You will meet those serving in various ministries of the church, work with others to provide oversight of church operations, and lead the way in growing St. George’s.

Second, we are looking for three delegates from St. George’s to attend the Diocesan Convention next year. This is a perfect way to connect with others from around the Diocese and learn about the Diocese of West Tennessee.

Please prayerfully consider these church leadership roles. If you would like to serve in either of these ways, please contact me, Molly Prewitt, or Rev. Dorothy.

Perry Pennington, Senior Warden

Perry.pennington@memphistr.org

Molly Prewitt

mollymoore816@hotmail.com

Rev. Dorothy White

dwhite@stgeorgesgermantown.org

Join the Journey Update

Have you seen the YouTube videos? If not, check out St. George’s YouTube channel by clicking here. There you will see several videos that provide an overview of the results of the congregational survey we took this year. Video #2 of the overview describes St. George’s as a Paraclete church. According to Holy Cow! Consulting, a paraclete church culture is warm and inviting. It develops a community that is intellectually open-minded and reflective but pays close attention to the structure and ritual that bind the community together.

From Holy Cow!:

At their best, this is accomplished through openness to those with different theological and spiritual perspectives combined with structures and practices that provide the external stability necessary for those seeking to develop and grow. A warm and hospitable community can make the church a potential haven for those in need of healing or recovery. It is common in paraclete cultures to hear folks talk about hospitality, inclusiveness, and spiritual practice. While many members are clearly grounded in their own theological perspectives, Paraclete cultures tend to be less demanding of a particular understanding of the faith, but more clear about the benefits of a particular liturgical tradition. --- Source, p. 4

Along with showing that St. George’s is a paraclete church, the survey showed that our church has a strong vision to reach out to others and incorporate them into the life of the church. We also learned that we have a high energy level and high level of satisfaction.

Taken together, all of these facts point to St. George’s being poised for growth and health as we travel our Journey through Rector Transition. It is up to each of us to step forward in faithful action to make that health and growth a reality. Here are some things you can do to help cultivate new growth:

1. I encourage everyone to participate in the upcoming training events the church will offer on strategies for effective outreach. Be on the lookout for details as these events come together.

2. When you are at church and notice someone that you don’t know yet, introduce yourself to them with a handshake and a smile, saying “I don’t think I’ve met you yet, my name is…”

3. Consider being confirmed. If you are not yet a confirmed Episcopalian, consider receiving the blessing of Confirmation in 2025.

4. “Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8b) 2025 will bring a new

emphasis on year-round stewardship (stewardship that focuses not only on

financial donations, but also on stewarding our time and talents well for the Lord). Please look for your opportunity to get involved.

Advent blessings,

Perry Pennington, Senior Warden

St. George's Has an Online Pictorial Directory

Click on this St. George's Church Directory landing page below to read about how you can be added to it or add your photo.

Need help or have questions? Please email: directory@stgeorgesgermantown.org

The Pem Field Library has been updated and brought online!

Virginia Baird has reorganized our Library to catalog recent gifts and make it even more user-friendly by including a listing of its contents online (https://www.librarycat.org/lib/stgeorgelibrary). The Library employs the Dewey Decimal classification system with the OOO’s starting to your left as you enter the library and continuing clockwise around the room, culminating in the Children’s collection on the far right. The Gibson and Marquis collections have been integrated into the main collection and designated with the initial call letters GIB and MAR respectively. For instructions on how to use the Library in-person or online

Looking for an Exercise Class? Tai Chi, Tuesdays, at 6:30 p.m.

Sandra Keller is teaching Tai Chi for Healthy Living on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Center.; (901) 486-0036 or mizfrog@comcast.net.

Adult Beginner Watercolor Class: 

2-Days, Saturday, January 11 and 18 from 10a-12p, $125 + supplies (kit rent or purchase options available)

Learn something new in 2025! Have you always wanted to try Watercolor? In this adult beginner class Stacey Meredith will introduce you to the wonderful world of watercolor through techniques, supplies, and a variety of projects. Projects include a landscape, floral, and an abstract. No experience is necessary. Details at the link: https://www.meredithdesignco.com/adult-watercolor-class or feel free to reach out to Stacey Meredith at 901.488.1785 or slmeredith@me.com.

Notes on the Notes

by Stephen Karr

This week we mourn the passing of Billie Moore, founder and longtime director of St. George's resident wind ensemble Sanctifica. Billie and his wife Karen have for a long time been key members of the music ministry at St. George's. Even despite health setbacks in recent years, Billie continued to lead Sanctifica with great dedication and purpose. Much of my own understanding of the ensemble's history and Billie's biography comes from Virginia Baird, who joined the group as the first non-brass player in 2009 at Billie's urging. By her own reckoning, she had not picked up a clarinet for some two decades, but upon hearing that she had played in the past he brought one to church for her to play, leading to a renewed interest in performing instrumental music. I cede the remainder of my column this week to share an excerpt of Billie's obituary written by Virginia.

Billie Donald Moore, 80, died peacefully at home in Memphis, Tennessee, on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Born in Los Angeles, California, August 16, 1944, Billie grew up in the Klondike neighborhood in North Memphis. A consummate musician, as a youth Billie attended the Friendship Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir. Urged by his friends to join the school band, Billie used earnings from his paper route to buy his first trombone for a down payment of $5.00 at Stoltz Music Store. That purchase launched a lifelong love of that instrument, of band music, and of jazz. 

Upon graduation from high school, Billie attended the University of Arkansas in Pine Bluff, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Instrumental Music Education. Subsequently Billie earned a Master of Arts in School Administration from Michigan State University. His career as a music educator began in Wynne, Arkansas, where for eight years he directed both the choir and band at Childress High School. From Wynne, Billie moved north to Albion, Michigan, where he again directed both the high school choir and band and created a new jazz ensemble. It was here that he met Karen, his wife of forty-five years. 

After their wedding, the Moores returned to Memphis where Billie continued to teach music in a variety of schools while for his own enjoyment he played his trombone in the Sanctuary Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Johnny Yancey. Billie was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Memphis, for twenty-two years. In 2004 he transferred his membership to St. George’s Episcopal Church, Germantown, where he served as a choir member, a vestry member, a Lay Eucharistic Minister, a lector, and a member of the men’s group. Billie’s biggest contribution to the life of St. George’s was his foundation of the Sanctifica Wind Ensemble which he organized as a four-member brass ensemble whose goal was to play for the groundbreaking of the new St. George’s Episcopal Church campus on South Germantown Road in April 2006. From that small beginning, Sanctifica has grown into a wind ensemble with seventeen members and frequent guest players. The group plays for an average of eight services each church year as well as occasional special events including an annual concert. When rehearsing, if the group was having difficulty with a particular passage, Billie frequently advised, “just feel it,” and he certainly did; he loved directing Sanctifica and selecting new music for the group to play.

Stephen Karr

Director of Music Ministry

Wednesday Morning Bible Study is

Open to All

St. George's Chapter of the Order of the Daughters of the King hosts a Wednesday morning Bible study from 10 - 11 a.m. that is open to all interested persons. This month they finish up their survey of women in the Bible.

Beginning Wednesday, November 13th the Bible Study group will read and study the Book of Revelation using Engaging God’s Word: Revelation by Community Bible Study. It is available at Amazon for $15.43. All are welcome!

St. George's Book Club Meets Tuesday, January 14

Our January book is The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay. Love, friendship, and family fid a home at the Printed Letter Bookshop. When Madeline inherits the bookshop her own bitter losses have hardened her heart toward her once-treasured aunt and the now struggling bookshop left in her care. This is a captivating story of good books, a testament to the beauty of new beginnings, and a sweet reminder of the power of friendship

We will meet in the Church Library at 7 pm, bring a drink or munchies to share. If you are on the Book Club email list, you will receive a reminder and login information for joining via the online (Zoom) option. If you would like to join the group, contact Kit Decker at kit.decker@earthlink.net to be put on the email group list for the Book Club to receive announcements and meeting information.

The Book Club Schedule for reading year 2024-25 has been posted to the church website. You can access it here. A new trifold brochure for the Reading Year 2024-25 with a description of Book Club, scheduled dates and a brief synopsis of each book is available for pickup in the Bookshoppe or at the meetings.

Thursday Night Bible Study Studies The Psalms

You are welcome to join St. George’s Episcopal Church’s Thursday Evening Bible Study online at 7:00 P.M. each week, for an amazing, in-depth study of the Book of Psalms that you have never experienced and will probably never again experience. Contact the class’s facilitator, Dr. Jimmy Elam at jimmyelam@hotmail.com, for further information, handouts and weekly Zoom link. No classes Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.

Forward Day by Day Available

Forward Movement offers beautiful books, apps, mobile-friendly websites, and podcasts to support a roving life of prayer.

Visit prayer.forwardmovement.org to find morning and evening prayer, the daily scripture readings, Forward Day by Day meditations, special seasonal meditations and more. Or visit forwardmovement.org/podcasts to discover their various podcasts.

The Nov - Jan issue is now available for pick up in the Narthex. You can also subscribe to an emailed daily version of the publication here.

Please click here for a Google calendar with more detailed information. Please email Karrie for any questions or to RSVP for an event.

December Activities for Families and Youth

Our "Worship and Wonder" class for children ages 3 years old through 5th grade meets Sundays in Classroom B during a portion of our 10:30am service. "Our Journey with God" class for 6th-12th grade meets at the same time in Classroom A. Children will be dismissed from church after the reading of the first lesson and return to church at the Peace. Older students will be asked to be good stewards and help assist the younger children in the classroom.

Children's Chapel Teachers are needed to assist the children of St. George's learn about God through play and creativity to experience an age appropriate lesson based on the lectionary shared in the service during our 10:30 am worship service. Contact Kerry at karrie@stgeorgesgermantown.org.

Calling all angels, shepherds, sheep and more! Please make plans to join us for our Children's Christmas pageant during the 4pm service on Christmas Eve! Please email Karrie to let her know if your child is interested in participating or if your youth is interested in being a narrator. We will meet in the library on December 24th, 2024 at 3pm for costuming. All children are welcome to participate even if it's last minute decision!

January Epiphany Event for Families and All Members of the Parish

We hope everyone will make plans to join us for a special Epiphany "Soup, Salad and S'mores Supper" with evening compline on Sunday, January 5th from 5:30pm to 7 pm. We will begin with food and fellowship in the Parish Hall, have s'mores over the firepit and then proceed to the Nave for Compline led by the youth. There will be Epiphany activities for children. Youth will meet at 4:30 pm in Classroom A to prepare for the compline service. Please RSVP to Karrie by January 1st if you plan to attend. If you are able to bring a crock pot of soup, donate an item for the event or assist with setup/celan up, please contact Karrie

Feast of Lights celebration at St. Mary's for our families with youth,  Saturday, January 4th. Karrie is not going to be able to attend but the event is designed to have a place for the youth to participate and a place for parents to spend time in fellowship:

Here’s a quick look at the evening:

· 4:00 p.m.: A youth gathering in Martyrs Hall with snacks, activities, and time to connect(St. Mary's will host a hospitality room in the Diocesan House starting at 4 p.m. for adults and families during the youth gathering)

· 5:00 p.m.: Feast of Lights service, which will include a blessing for the Diocesan Youth Council (DYC) and its new members.

· 6:00 p.m.: Bonfire and cocoa  

EYC (6th-12th grade) and Holy Spirit Squad (3rd-5th grade) for December:

NO EYC OR HOLY SPIRIT SQUAD MEETINGS ON DECEMBER 22nd or DECEMBER 29TH

The Holy Spirit Squad (our newly formed group of 3rd through 5th graders) has taken on a service project to assemble a box of goodies and decorate goodie bags for our Room in the Inn guests. If you are interested in helping to support their project and would like to donate an item, the SignUp Genius link can be found here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E48AFAD28A5FDC16-52369185-items#/

Exciting Winter Offerings at St. Columba

Sweet ReTreat - December 21st and 22nd, discover the magic of St. Columba during winter break at Sweet ReTreat! From 9am-3pm each day, campers (Kindergarten through 6th grade) will embark on a holiday adventure with baking classes, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventure time at our climbing tower and zip-lines. Overnight option available for students 3rd through 6th grade.

Jr. and Sr. High Ski Trips - 3 day, two night ski adventure. Senior High Ski Trip will be January 17th-19th. Junior High Ski Trip will be February 14th-16th. (Details of location and lodging are still being decided so I will email again once registration opens and with flyers)

Participants can register using the link below.

https://saintcolumba.campbrainregistration.com

Room in the Inn Host Nights

On November 7 one of the most important ministries we do at Saint George’s began its ninth season of serving at the Methodist Church Cottage a block south of The Commissary. On the first and third Thursdays of each month, November through March, we provide a delicious dinner, breakfast, a comfortable bed, showers, clothes washing, and a selection of needed items to those who are homeless. 

Most importantly over the time we have served we have provided listening ears and comfort to literally hundreds of individuals. When our volunteers are “being in the moment” with our guests it is truly the best possible gift one can offer a “houseless” person in need.

While most of our volunteer opportunities have now filled there are few openings remaining to help. Just contact me at the email below if you have an interest.

John Remsen

RITI Coordinator, St. George’s 

jremsenjr@yahoo.com 

Serving More Than a Meal, on Sunday, January 19

We serve More Than a Meal on the 3rd Sunday of each month at Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church from 3 - 5 p.m. Join your St. George’s friends (and make new ones, too), when we next serve More Than a Meal and help make this season a hospitality-filled one for our neighbors. There are a number of roles for Sunday afternoons, from making nametags for guests, to plating food in the kitchen, to serving guests. We’ll start setting up at 3 p.m., and the meal will be served at 4 p.m. with cleanup usually finished by 5 p.m.



Cooking for More Than a Meal

It is St. George’s delight and honor to lead the 3rd Sunday cooking team. If you enjoy making your way around a kitchen, and would love to have a hungry crowd to appreciate your cooking, here's your opportunity! Many thanks to PZ and Selby Horton for leading the cooking team. Please contact PZ Horton at hortonpz@gmail.com for more information about joining the cooking team.

Cleaning Out Your Closets? Donate Seasonal Clothing to the Calvary Closet

Even though Calvary's building is under renovation, the Clothes Closet remains open for neighbors experiencing homelessness. We will be thankful to receive your donations at the Welcome Inn next door, 82 N. 2nd Street. Men's jackets and winter outerwear, pants, belts, and shoes are a huge need. Women's clothes (appropriate streetwear) are also accepted. Please call 901-525-6602 for questions. Thank you for helping our neighbors!

Calvary Closet needs gently-used seasonal clothing, especially for men, in large and extra large sizes, shoes, and blankets/ throws/ sleeping bags are especially needed for those sleeping outside. Also desired are duffle bags and wheeled suitcases. See the list of items needed and place your bags in the donation tubs in the Narthex. You can also order from the Amazon wish list (search for "Calvary Memphis Outreach"), and they will be sent straight to Calvary! Other needed items include

Be a Part of Our Worship Team

Crucifers and Torch Bearers Needed

Thank You to all of our children and youth who will serve as acolytes! It's never too late to join in so please contact Mary Margaret Freeman (marymargaretfree@gmail.com, or 901-336-1790) for more information.

Welcoming Teams, LEMs, & Acolytes Needed

We continuingly need a few more ushers/greeters to greet and help our worshippers find seats, and LEMs for 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services.

For more information about serving, please contact or respond to:

Andrew Proctor (LEMs, lectors, at proctorandrew@hotmail.com)

Stan Walker (ushers, stanlwalker64@gmail.com)

Mary Margaret Freeman (Acolytes, marymargaretfree@gmail.com) 

Join a Music Ministry

St. George's music ensembles have resumed regular rehearsals. Contact the persons named for additional information about St. George's music ensembles:

Children’s choir will resume soon. Please contact Stephen Karr at music@stgeorgersgermantown.org.

Coventry Choir, Wednesday evenings 7-9 pm. - Please contact Stephen Karr at music@stgeorgersgermantown.org.

Exultemus!, our folk guitar and vocal ensemble -  Please contact Tom Fields (901-674-0652).

St. George’s Recorder Consort – Please contact Angela Saunders (901-438-9975).

Sanctifica Wind & Brass Ensemble – Please contact Karen Moore (901-486-0417).

Learn and Be A Part of Our Livestream Team

Do you have an interest in learning how to stream live video to the internet? Become part of our livestream team on Sunday mornings at 10:30am, no experience necessary. We have a new system in place that we are all learning how to use. Community service hours signoff available for students. Please contact Joe Austin at josephgaustin16@gmail.com if you are interested.

Holiday Meal Delivery

Since 1984, MIFA Meals on Wheels volunteers have been spreading warmth and cheer by delivering special holiday meals—and gifts—to 1,200 seniors across our community. 

Join us on Saturday, December 21, to deliver hot meals and gifts to our senior clients as we continue this beloved MIFA tradition. 

For more details, reach out to Marcie Lynne Williams at mwilliams@mifa.​org or (901) 529-4521 or click here to sign up online.

Episcopal Relief & Development Provides Relief and Support for neighbors suffering following international conflicts, natural disasters, and refugee needs

Shine your light 2x as bright

This holiday season, may we spread light and hope for our neighbors near and far. Until 12/31, your donation to Episcopal Relief & Development will go twice as far — every gift up to $750,000 will be doubled, dollar for dollar, to support our locally-led, evidence-based relief and development work worldwide.

^{MGAL Juried Winter Show open Dec. 5 - Jan. 14}

The Memphis/Germantown Art League (MGAL) of Memphis, TN, first organized in 1976, is a nonprofit organization of visual artists and associates supporting the work of its member artists. The League’s purpose is to aid its member artists in their professional growth and in the development of their artistic skills by providing exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, and other continuing education opportunities.

The exhibit includes a variety of paintings in oil, acrylic, watercolor, oil on silk, and mixed media.

A portion of the proceeds from sales in The Gallery supports the work of Carpenter Art Garden, which brings the arts to the underserved Binghampton community. St. George’s Art Gallery is located within St. George’s Episcopal Church and is accessed through the front doors. The Gallery is open M – F from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

St. George's Preschool 

For information about the program, contact the Preschool Director, Sarah Bettendorf at: 901-757-2675

 sarah@stgeorgesgermantown.org



Easy Ways to Support Our Church

Kroger Community Rewards continues to support St. George's. If you shop at Kroger for your groceries and sundries, please register with Kroger so that your purchases earn contributions to St. George's.

Other Parish News



Need to sign someone up for the parish Prayer List or the DOK confidential prayer list? Contact Eileen at office@stgeorgesgermantown.org for Parish List;

Contact Kit Decker at kit.decker@earthlink.net or leave prayer request in the Prayer Box in the Narthex for DOK confidential prayer list.

Diocesan and Community Events Coming Up

The Diocesan Communicator

The Diocesan Communicator of the Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee is full of news and events. For more information click on the Diocesan Communicator link above and click on the current issue.

Subscribe to Diocesan News....

Subscribe to the Diocesan Communicator! Each Wednesday, the Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee sends an email containing updates, inspiration, and events going on in our Episcopal community. To subscribe to the Communicator and find out more on what is going on in this Diocese, go to: edwtn.org

2024 Diocesan Cycle of Prayer

Make praying for the ministries and churches of the Diocese of West Tennessee a part of your prayer practice in 2024. The Diocesan Cycle of Prayer for 2024 is now on our website. Access it at http://tinyurl.com/WTNDCOP24 

Musical Offerings Around the Diocese:

• Evensong, First Sundays through May at 5 p.m. at Calvary Episcopal Church
• Diocesan Feast of Lights Celebration, Saturday, Jan. 4, 4 p.m. at St. Mary's Cathedral

Other Events:

• Saint Clare Women's Half-Day Silent Retreat, Jan. 3, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at St. Columba; to register go to https://saintcolumbamemphis.org/stclare

• New Year's Eve Service with Labyrinth, Tues., Dec. 31, Labyrith walk at 4 p.m., Worship in the Round in the Parish Hall at 5:30 p.m. Church of the Holy Communion.

• Wednesday Eucharist now offered at St. Mary's Cathedral

Information details and registration for all events are in The Diocesan Communicator

A Message from Samaritan Counseling Centers

Mental Health Matters This Holiday Season

The holidays can be a joyful time, but for many, they also bring challenges—stress, loneliness, or grief. At Samaritan Counseling Centers, we’re here to support individuals and families on their mental health journey. And we're here to encourage everyone to take time to tend to your mental health this holiday season.

5 Tips to Stay Mentally Healthy This Holiday Season

1. Set Realistic Expectations: Don’t aim for a “perfect” holiday—embrace imperfections and focus on what truly matters.

2. Prioritize Self-Care: Take breaks, get enough sleep, and say “no” to events or obligations that drain you.

3. Manage Family Dynamics: Plan ahead for potential conflicts, set boundaries, and focus on positive interactions.

4. Reach Out for Support: If you’re feeling isolated, connect with a trusted friend, join a community event, or consider therapy.

5. Practice Gratitude: Reflect on the good things in your life and share your gratitude with others.

Source: APA

We are Here for You

The past several years has affected all of us in unforeseen ways. Do you need help? St. George's is YOUR community.. If you need help--be it spiritual, mental, financial, physical, or emotional--the wisest action for you to take would be to reach out to a discreet resource that cares about you. There is no shame in saying, "I need help." It is a courageous act of self-care.

We have confidential prayer warriors wanting to add you to their list. Let us know of any burden or joy you'd like to share.

Contact Rev. Dorothy White or Eileen in the church office (901) 754-7282 for clergy assistance for your special needs.

Church Phone number (901)754-7282

Staff Phone Extensions and Email Addresses:

Contact office@stgeorgesgermantown.org for pastoral concerns

Interim Rector: The Rev. Dorothy White: ext. 105

dwhite@stgeorgesgermantown.org

Parish Administrator: Eileen Fields: ext. 101, eileen@stgeorgesgermantown.org 

or office@stgeorgesgermantown.org

Director of Music Ministry: Stephen Karr ext. 102 music@stgeorgesgermantown.org

Coordinator of Children's/Family/Youth Ministry: Karrie LaCroix: ext. 109

Karrie@stgeorgesgermantown.org 

Finance Office Assistant: Whitney Boyd, ext. 103

whitney@stgeorgesgermantown.org

Preschool Director: Sarah Bettendorf: ext. 106 or direct 901-757-2675 sarah@stgeorgesgermantown.org

Website Admin: Joe Austin

Newsletter Editor: Kit Decker, kit.decker@earthlink.net

The Tip of the Lance

Editor: Kit Decker,. Content is due on the Monday preceding the next publishing date to kit.decker@earthlink.net. Next TIP is Dec. 19, Happenings (Sunday bulletin) send content to office@stgeorgesgermantown.org.