In this edition: Convention video from Bishop Brown; the Rev. Charles Cowen commentary; Fun Fact; Check it Out!; Did You Know?; Upcoming events; News in the ECD community, Episcopal Church, and Anglican Communion
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Our Annual Convention
Some history. What is the church about?
What are our priorities?
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Bishop Brown provides some history of our convention and extends an invitation to everyone to attend the upcoming 237th Annual Convention of the Episcopal Church in Delaware.
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Worship at convention
The convention Eucharist is open to everyone and will be offered livestream, and in-person for those who are able to attend. If you would like to join us in person for worship, it will be held at St. David's Church, Wilmington, at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 20.
Livestream links for worship and business sessions can be found here.
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More information about convention
For complete information and details, please visit our convention webpage. |
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The Rev. Charles Lane Cowen
Associate Rector, Trinity Parish
has commentary published
A commentary Cowen wrote for preachers/teachers for the Gospel appointed for November 14 (Proper 28 Year B) was just published in Modern Metanoia. You may read the commentary here
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Fun Fact
Question: Which church in our diocese was the first to install electricity?
Clue: Most Wilmington churches were wired for electricity by the 1890s.
Photograph shows sign with instructions on the use of Edison electric light bulbs
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Pope Urban II orders first Crusade
in November 1095
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Urban made the most influential speech of the Middle Ages, calling Christians to war against Muslims to reclaim the Holy Land with a cry of “Deus vult!” or “God wills it!” Since the 6th century, Christians made pilgrimages there until the Turks took control of Jerusalem and barred Christians. When the Turks threatened to invade the Byzantine Empire, Emperor Alexius I appealed to Urban for help. Between 60,000 and 100,000 people responded to Urban’s speech, not all out of piety. Nobles, tempted by the prospect of increased land and riches, killed many innocents on the way to and in the Holy Land, absorbing the riches and estates of those deemed opponents to their cause. The inexperience and lack of discipline of the Christian peasants against the trained, professional armies of the Muslims led to the Christians initially being beaten back. Only through sheer force of numbers were they eventually able to triumph.
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Diver finds 900-year-old crusader
sword off Israel's coast
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The 3.3 ft blade was discovered by Shlomi Katzin in shallow waters off Haifa. It is thought the sword, heavily encrusted with marine organisms, resurfaced after the shifting of sands. The Israel Antiques Authority said that once cleaned and analyzed it would be put on public display. The Crusades, which lasted for centuries, saw European Christians travel to the Middle East to try and seize control of Jerusalem and other parts of the Holy Land from Muslims. The Carmel coast, where the blade was found, provided shelter for ships during storms throughout centuries of shipping activity along the coast. Those conditions attracted merchant ships down the ages, leaving behind rich archaeological finds. Researchers believe the sword might be linked to the nearby crusaders' citadel at Atlit. The sword is heavy because of it is iron, inlaid with stones, and very big, which means the man who held this sword and fought with it was very strong.
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Cycle of Prayer in the Episcopal Church in Delaware |
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Flags for Heroes: Bishop Brown to be honored with a flag. Rotary Club of Wilmington places flags at the corner of Concord Pike & Mt. Lebanon Road, Wilmington. Brief ceremony on Veterans Day, Thursday, November 11, 8:30am
Each flag is purchased in honor of, or in memory of, a veteran, first responder, nurse, etc., in other words, a hero. 100% of the money raised is given to a veterans’ group and a first responders’ group. This year the two grant recipients will be Stop Soldier Suicide and the Ronnie Williams Foundation. Each flag is marked with the individual’s name and there is a grid that locates where the individual’s flag is located. It is quite a spectacular site, and very dramatic when illuminated at nighttime. In recognition of Bishop Brown's service in the U.S. Air Force, the McCrery and Harra funeral home has purchased a flag to honor Bishop Brown as a veteran, and with appreciation for his service.
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A New Season of Building Opportunity in Delaware
Now available!
Join DCF President & CEO Stuart Comstock-Gay every Monday through November 29 for the third season of
Comstock-Gay talks with Delaware nonprofit leaders about how they’re advancing equity through their organizations to build opportunity for all people and strengthen our communities. You'll hear conversations with:
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Arreon Harley-Emerson, Choir School of Delaware - Listen Now!
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Annie Norman, Delaware State Libraries - Listen Now!
- Faye Blake, Pathways to Success
- Chazz Rezwinicki, Dover Federal Credit Union
- Lossie Freeman, ZipCode Wilmington
- Cynthia Primo Martin, Author, Handbook for Nonprofit Leadership: Recruiting, Training, and Engaging Trustees of Color
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MLK Voice 4 Youth Contest, Registration now open!
First Prize $2000, Second Prize $1000, Third Prize $500
Presented by the YWCA and Christ Church Christiana Hundred, MLK Voice 4 Youth is a statewide, spoken word contest for high school students, grades 9–12. The contest challenges students to reflect on Dr. King’s work in the 1960s and creatively share how his legacy guides their response to today’s challenges. In addition to the cash prizes for winners, thanks to New Castle County Executive, Matt Meyer, all finalists will again receive a $50 Amazon gift card, and $500 will be awarded to the School of the Student taking the first prize. More information and registration
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Wonderful Opportunity to Join Choral Pilgrimage to UK!
Choir Residency and Choral Pilgrimage, St. Paul's Cathedral, London
Christ Church Christiana Hundred, Wilmington, is pleased to announce the Christ Church Choir will be in residence at St. Paul’s Cathedral. The pilgrimage welcomes all, members and non-members.
Choir Residency at St. Paul's Cathedral, July 25-31, 2022
The choir sing daily evensong and the Eucharist on Sunday, led by choir director, Bruce Barber.
Choral Pilgrimage to East Anglian Cathedrals and Historic Sites,
July 20-August 1, 2022
Our rector, Ruth Beresford, will lead up to 30 pilgrims to explore sacred sites and share in worship and fellowship as companions of the choir. Our pilgrimage begins in Norwich, visiting cathedrals and other sites of historic and cultural interest in East Anglia. The pilgrims join the choir in London, each day visiting some of the world’s great museums, churches, cathedrals, and attending Evensong at St. Paul’s Cathedral. Each night will provide free time for all to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. With a maximum of 30 pilgrims accompanying the choir, we invite you to register as soon as possible. This pilgrimage welcomes all, members and non-members of Christ Church. A $500 reservation deposit is fully refundable until December 1, 2021. See full itinerary, pilgrim registration, and chorister registration here.
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Upcoming Events in Our Community |
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First Friday Walk for Justice and Peace, Friday, November 5, 5:30pm, in front of First & Central Presbyterian Church (10th and Market in Wilmington)
After a time of reflection and prayer, participants are invited to walk silently to the Church of Sts. Andrew & Matthew parking lot for concluding remarks and prayer. After the walk, you are invited to walk a few more steps to the reception for artist Chloe McEldowney, 6-9pm at the Chris White Art Gallery, 701 N. Shipley Street. The non-profit Chris White Art Gallery is supported, in part, by the Church of Sts, Andrew & Matthew. More information about the monthly walks here. More information about the Chris White Gallery here
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St. James' Mill Creek, Wilmington, Annual Bazaar, Friday, November 5
and Saturday, November 6, 10am-3pm
The St. James' Bazaar is back! It's a little different this year. Items won't be displayed in several shops. All the shops will be set up in the parish hall. There will be many of your favorite hand crafted items as well as many new ones.
Crafts!
Snacks!
Raffles
We hope you will join us — we've missed you!
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Fire and Formation Introduction: An offering by the Commission on Ministry
Saturday, November 6, 10am-12noon, via Zoom
The Commission on Ministry (COM) is offering the Episcopal Church in Delaware the opportunity of the Fire & Formation initiative. The mission of Fire & Formation is to aid and encourage people to discover their passion for Christ, deepen their spirituality, and fully live out their baptismal covenant. The intention is to provide support to the already good work being done in congregations. Fire & Formation’s introduction on November 6 also includes sharing more about the mission, forming small groups, available resources, and opportunity to enter into conversation and reflection on baptismal living. Be sure to see the Fire & Formation webpage (https://delaware.church/fire-formation/) on our diocesan website. Resources are designed for groups and individuals. Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Organ Dedication and Concert, Friday, November 12, 7pm
St. Barnabas, Wilmington
You are invited to St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church which will dedicate its new organ. Organist, Dr. Will Thomas, will perform an organ recital featuring works of Jehan Alain, J.S. Bach, César Franck, and Felix Mendelssohn. The program will also include a commissioned work by Robert J. Powell to mark the beginning of Dr. Thomas’s tenure as Director of Music.
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St. Thomas’s Parish, Newark, Annual Bazaar
Friday, November 12 and Saturday, November 13, 9am–4pm
You will find unique holiday crafts, fresh baked goods, cookie walk (build your own cookie tray), quarts of homemade soups, second-hand Christmas decorations, resale shop/white elephant sale, and exclusive new items. Join us for lunch, which may be purchased between 11:30am–1pm. All proceeds from the Annual Bazaar go to Outreach Ministries. More information
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Annual Holly Fair Craft Show and Holiday Shopping Event, Christ Church, Dover,
Saturday, November 13, 9am-3pm
The Holly Fair, a long-standing tradition encompasses two floors of the Parish House located on the church property. There is plenty of off-street parking and the building is fully handicapped accessible. Featured at the fair are area craft vendors, items new and old, a women's boutique, a bake sale run by the youth group of the parish, holiday decorations, gourmet soup, nuts and candies, a chicken salad and chili luncheon will be served as well. All are welcome to attend, there is no charge. Proceeds go to off-set the cost of the recent restoration and renovation of the historic church sanctuary. For more information contact; Mariann Marston at Christ Church [email protected] or call 302.734.5731
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St. David's, Wilmington, Annual Craft Fair
Saturday, November 13, 9am-3pm
There is no admission fee and parking is free. For over 50 years St. David’s has been able to fund community outreach and ministry needs from monies raised at our annual Craft Fair. This year our fair has been scaled down to keep everyone safe. However, we still have so much to offer! 25 crafters will arrive from around the tri-state area to sell unique, high quality, handmade goods at this popular show. In addition to the talented crafters, we also offer the following:
Attic Treasures - a place for yard sale bargains, sports equipment, and gently used children’s toys and accessories.
$5 will get you priority admission at 8:30am before the 9:00am general sale starts!
Book Sale - gently used books for sale.
Silent Auction - includes beautiful gift baskets and more!
Bake Sale – homemade baked goodies and breads.
Beef Barley Soup! Our very own Jeff Cook from Two Fat Guys Restaurant and Catering will be selling his famous Beef Barley soup for take-out. More information
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Choral Evensong, Immanuel Church, New Castle, Sunday, November 14, 4pm
Jack Warren Burnam, Choirmaster & Organist, The Rev. Christopher P. Keene, rector, officiating. Music by John West, Hide me under the shadow of thy wings; Richard Ayleward, Responses; Orlando Gibbons, Short Evening Service; Gibbons, Almighty and everlasting God; with organ music by George Dyson. A reception follows the service. Please join us! For more information please contact the church office at 302.328.2413 or by email at [email protected].
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An Evening of Poetry with Steve Garnaas-Holmes, Trinity Cathedral, Easton and on Zoom
Thursday, November 18, 7pm
This offering is both a fundraiser to support the Retreat House, Hillsboro, MD, and a wonderful opportunity for spiritual nourishment experienced in community. We hope you'll join us, either in person or via Zoom!
More information and registration here
The poet's work is steeped in his own faith, life journey as a pastor, and his welcome to those looking to grow their rootedness in God. Why poetry and spirituality? And why come to a poetry reading when I can open a book? Here is a reminder of how listening to poetry can create a nourishing, listening space for faith deepening. Read article here.
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News from the Episcopal Church and beyond |
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Participate in Episcopal Church Climate Advocacy at the COP26 Conference
Sign up to receive a daily digest of updates, resources, events, here
Join Liturgy for Planetary Crisis: Episcopal Church Worship Service
Saturday, November 6, 11am Please join in prayer and worship here
Report Back from Presiding Bishop's Delegation, Friday, November 12, 2pm
Gather with Episcopal Church advocates and ecumenical partners for this closing event, culminating in a faith-led vision for ongoing Episcopal Church advocacy around climate change here
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The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations and Episcopal Migration Ministries offers Webinar: From Newcomers to Neighbors: Messaging and Best Practices for Building Welcoming Communities for Afghan Arrivals, Thursday, November 4, 3-4:15pm
As communities across the United States begin to receive Afghan allies, advocates and their local elected officials and faith leaders face the challenge of building support for welcoming these newcomers. While agencies such as Episcopal Migration Ministries have resources to assist with the resettlement process, local leaders may need ideas for programs and initiatives to support the integration of these newcomers. The webinar will discuss how church leaders and community members can best talk about and adopt programs to welcome Afghan arrivals and other newcomers and support their integration. The panel will include:
- Theresa Brown, managing director of immigration and cross-border policy, Bipartisan Policy Center
- Jordyne Krumroy, senior regional manager, Welcoming America
- Chris McNabb, Neighbor to Neighbor missioner, Episcopal Migration Ministries
- Salome Mwangi, Refugee Speakers Bureau & social integration coordinator, Idaho Office for Refugees, Boise
The event includes a moderated panel discussion followed by a Q&A session with the audience. A recording will be made available post-event. Registration is free but required. Register here.
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The National Cathedral will host the funeral of Colin Powell, the former U.S. general and secretary of state, who was a lifelong Episcopalian. Powell, 84, died on October 18 of complications from COVID-19.
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The Executive Council 0f The Episcopal Church met virtually October 25-28
Read full transcript of Presiding Bishop's opening remarks here
Read transcript of President of the House of Deputies opening remarks here
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Toward GC80: Worship Committee provides planning update on convention liturgies
After a year and a half of thoughtful, inclusive discernment, the General Convention Worship Committee has announced the outline for multiple liturgical services that will “highlight a broad cross-section of embodied expressions of worship from around the church” at the eight-day churchwide gathering in Baltimore in July 2022. “An Overview of Worship for The 80th General Convention of The Episcopal Church” details the first phase of the worship committee’s mandate to creatively develop and implement eight liturgical services during General Convention, the triennial gathering of the church’s governing body. More information
A Spanish version of the report can be found here
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Registration open for United Thank Offering’s 2022 Great EpisGOpal Virtual Race
On the heels of a highly successful inaugural year, the United Thank Offering’s Great EpisGOpal Virtual Race returns November 5-14, with multiple ways to participate and raise funds to support special ministries and missions. Last year’s race raised more than $21,500, which funded COVID-19 relief grants and supported an Episcopal camp in South Dakota. This year’s proceeds will help fund creation care grants and support Sawyerville, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama that provides free programs, mentoring and scholarships for children and youth in Hale County. More information
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Episcopal Service Corps seeks applicants for 2022-23 service year: Virtual open house to answer questions and explain more about the process, Saturday, November 13, 3pm Register here
The Episcopal Church invites young leaders ages 21 to 32 interested in a transformative outreach and discernment experience to consider applying to the Episcopal Service Corps for its 2022-23 service year.
The virtual Open House will include a chance to hear from current and former Corps members. Potential applicants can also take an online discernment quiz.
Every year, 80-100 young leaders serve more than 120,000 hours in local and community-based nonprofits and churches through the Episcopal Service Corps, helping in rural ministries, homelessness support, healthcare, immigration and refugee resettlement, housing justice, education for at-risk youth, and much more. Corps members receive housing, health coverage, and small stipends to cover living expenses, transportation, and food. Questions? Please contact Wendy Johnson.
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Washington National Cathedral dedicates carving to Elie Wiesel, the first modern Jew memorialized in the building
Washington National Cathedral has dedicated the fourth of the planned quartet of human rights carvings in the building’s vestibule, honoring the late Elie Wiesel with prayer and discussion of the Holocaust survivor’s legacy of pursuing justice, hope and faith in the face of humanity’s darkest crimes. More information
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News from the Anglican Communion |
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Indigenous peoples and youth, as well as climate resilience and just financing, are priorities for the Anglican Communion at COP26. More information
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