The Draft

Our Weekly E-Newsletter

September 26, 2024

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Bulletin for Sunday - September 29, 2024

Our Mission: Making a difference for others, because God is making a difference for us.

Our Vision: To create a safe, loving, and accepting place for all people to grow in their faith and spread love out into the beloved community.

(Note: The following message is repeated information from the Special Draft message sent on Sept. 20)

ST. THOMAS’ PIPE ORGAN

Our Organ Today

Our organ began its life in 1920 as a custom-built E.M. Skinner organ for a congregation in Ohio. Every aspect of the instrument was built specifically for the space and the requirements of the Ohio sanctuary and congregation.  In 1964, St Thomas' acquired and installed the instrument as-is. In 1978, we made extensive alterations: adding, removing, and changing the sounds of the pipes and we rebuilt some of the organ components. Then in 1980, we added the antiphonal division (the pipes mounted above the west door) to support congregational singing.  Finally, in 2021 we replaced the organ’s failing electronic control system.



Organs are comprised of thousands of components. Our organ has 3100 pipes, with supporting wind chests, bellows, blowers, wires, and electrical components. Some parts are even made of leather! Although St. Thomas’ has invested in the maintenance of our complex instrument, we have known since the early 2000’s that most of the organ’s components are on borrowed time. Multiple music directors and organists for St. Thomas’ have been asked to obtain proposals to rebuild the organ. The cost of rebuilding the organ has always been the sticking point in moving forward with an organ rebuild. Because there has been no plan to raise the money, the organ has continued to deteriorate.  

We are now at the point where the organ is in imminent danger of failing. Although the pipes sound the same until the supporting components fail, if we are to continue to enjoy the majestic sounds of the organ in our worship, it must be completely rebuilt or replaced.

Stewardship: The Festive Meal

Please join us on Saturday, Sept 28, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the parish hall for the return of The Festive Meal. Table hosts are ready to greet you with a fun theme and decorations at each table. Over 80 folk have signed up to attend and we look forward to greeting each of you at this fun event.

October 6:

St. Francis' Day Celebration:

Blessing of the Pets and Animal Fair

On Sunday October 6 at the 10:00 am service we will celebrate the life of St. Francis of Assisi and all invited to bring your pets to church for a special blessing. Yes, there will be ooops stations conveniently located around the church (just in case) and after the service there will be an animal fair in the Canterbury school courtyard. (No pets at the 8:00 am service, please).

Please join us for a truly special evening at St. Thomas' as we celebrate our Art Project's next gallery opening on October 11! This is not just an event; it’s a vibrant cultural experience that we hope you will share with friends and loved ones. Immerse yourself in the stunning photography of Jim Swallow and the evocative poetry of Miriam Sauve, all while being serenaded by the delightful music of Don and Wendy Morris. This gathering promises to be a wonderful opportunity to connect with our community, appreciate local talent, and foster a spirit of creativity and togetherness. Let’s come together in faith and the arts, enriching our spiritual lives and supporting one another in this joyous celebration!

There will be live music, refreshments and a opportunity drawing for 2 tickets to the Dali Museum & gift card to Fresco's.

Mark your Calendar: October 19

Get ready to raise your steins and join in the festive fun at St. Thomas' Men's Club Oktoberfest celebration in the Parish Hall! Keep your eyes peeled for more details to come, and let’s have a great time together at Oktoberfest!

Music for Sunday,

September 29, 2024

Voluntary: "Prelude on Slane" by Franklin D. Ashdown (1942-2023)

Hymn #408 Sing praise to God who reigns above, Mit Freuden zart

Psalm 19: 7-14 Caeli enarrant    tune by S.S. Wesley (1810-1876)

Gradual #429 I'll praise my Maker while I've breath, Old 113th

Offertory Anthem: "There Is a Balm in Gilead" arr. Robert Lau (b.1943)

Communion Anthem: "Your Hands, O Lord, in Days of Old" by Carson P. Cooman (b. 1982)

(remove the word hymn, and replace with anthem for communion)

Hymn #488 Be thou my vision, Slane

Voluntary: "Prelude and Fugue in B-flat Major" by J.S. Bach (1685-1750)

Animal Fair - Pet Collection

We are excited to announce our community initiative to collect pet supplies for the Animal Fair, running now through Sunday, October 6! At the back of the church, you’ll find an easel adorned with helpful suggestions on post-it notes—feel free to take one and let it guide your contributions. Your donations can be placed in the blue bins conveniently located nearby, making it easy for everyone to participate. This is a wonderful opportunity for both long-time parishioners and newcomers to come together and show our love for our furry friends in need. Every item counts! We warmly invite you and your family to join in this fulfilling cause, helping to create a nurturing environment that reflects the heart of St. Thomas. Together, we can make a difference!

We are also collecting items for

Seaside Seabird Sanctuary

and need the following items:

Laundry detergent & Bleach

Bleach alternative: hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, vinegar

Paper towels & steel scrub pads

Permanent markers, pens & sticky notes

Freezer bags (Qt. & Gal.) & 30 gal. trash bags

Tape: duct, electrical, scotch & painters

Dawn dish soap & hand soap

Bird toys: Rubber Kong toys & Black/Brown or dark colored Yarn

Printer paper

Adams flea & tick spray

Dried mealworms

Gently used towels

Brooms & spoolies (small brush)

Pick up your reminder sticky note on the white board in the back of the church and then bring your pet donation with you the next Sunday and place it in the collection bin for our feather and fur friends.

In addition:



We can use all types of pet food, puppy pads, kitty litter, all sizes of collars, leashes, cat and dog toys, as well.

Youth Ministry

Feasting on the Word Sunday School curriculum is designed for grades 1-5. Grounded in the Common Lectionary, this engaging program allows children to explore the same scriptures their parents hear during Sunday services, fostering rich and meaningful conversations at home. With classes beginning at 10 am, the transition into the service for Communion is seamless, creating a shared moment of worship where families can come together in faith. We warmly invite all families to join this nurturing environment, where children not only deepen their understanding of scripture but also strengthen their bonds with one another. Embrace this opportunity to grow in faith together, as we all feast on the Word!

Feasting of the Word meets in the Library at 10am.

Truthseekers for grades 6-12, is designed to engage and inspire, ensuring that spiritual growth and learning are offered.

Truthseekers meets in the Guild Room at 9:00 am on Sunday. This is an engaging class taught by Mike and Gina White.

DONUTS!

Diocesan Youth Lock-In - October 11

Calling all youth adventurers aged 8 to 18! Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey at the Diocesan Lock-In on Friday, October 11, at 7 pm at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Punta Gorda, Florida! Prepare yourselves for an evening packed with laughter-inducing movies, mind-blowing games, and uplifting worship that will truly nourish your spirit. And let’s not forget the snacks that will keep you energized throughout the night! But the adventure doesn’t stop there—on Saturday, we dive into Convention time! Join us as we come together to play, worship, and learn in a vibrant community where every youth is valued and welcomed. This is more than just an event; it's a chance to forge connections, deepen your faith, and grow personally within a nurturing environment. So mark your calendars and get ready for a night of fun, fellowship, and spiritual growth that you won’t want to miss!

Trunk or Treat - October 30

Make plans to join us on Wednesday, October 30 at 5:00 pm for a fun alternative to trick or treat. Folks are invited to decorate their cars for the event and join in the fun passing out candy to St. Thomas', Canterbury, and community children dress in costume. Afterward, pizza will be served in the Parish Hall. This will be a fun family event.

Adult Learning Opportunities

Adult Formation Class

Wednesdays 7:00 pm

All adults are invited to join us in the Guild Room immediately following Supper, Song & Prayer and Compline for an enriching and engaging class centered on the captivating stories of G.K. Chesterton. Chesterton, who proudly identified as an orthodox Christian and embraced Catholicism, offers a profound exploration of faith and moral questions through his beloved character, Fr. Brown, a Roman priest and amateur detective. This class promises to be a delightful experience, filled with thought-provoking discussions and a chance to deepen your understanding of Chesterton's insights. Come and connect with fellow seekers in a supportive and inclusive environment, as we embark on this journey of spiritual growth and community bonding together.

Story Reading Assignment for Wednesday, October 2:

"The Paradise of Thieves" and "The Purple Wig"

Women of the Word

Thursdays 9:15 am

Women of the Word (WOW) will resume weekly sessions October 3. This year we will study the book of beginnings, Genesis. This is the story of God’s purpose and plan for His creation, and it sets the stage for the entire Bible. Our guide will be A Journey through Genesis, edited by Marek P. Zabriskie and published by Forward Movement (2023). To kick off our season of study and Genesis journey, we will participate in the St. Thomas Prayer Labyrinth in the Parish Hall on Thursday, October 3, beginning at 9:15 am. For more information, please call Joan Barns, (757) 567-5488 or email joanmbarns@gmail.com.

Men's Bible Study

Wednesdays 7:30 am

We are in the midst of studying Exodus.

Come join us.

Please contact Fr. Ryan for information,

727-896-9641

LARGE PRINT editions of the Forward Day by Day are now available in the back o the church at the usher's station.

Forward Movement has also published a short four-page document that can be used for anyone who would like to pray for our upcoming elections.

News from the Farm

Fall Open House

We warmly invite you to join us for Benison Farm's Fall Open House on Saturday, October 12, from 9:00 am to 12 noon! This is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to explore the beautiful progress we've made at the Farm over the summer. Take a leisurely tour, immerse yourself in the vibrant community atmosphere, and discover the exciting array of plants and other items available for purchase. Your participation not only supports our initiatives but also fosters connections with fellow community members who share a passion for sustainability and growth. We can't wait to celebrate this journey with you, so mark your calendars and come be a part of our nurturing community!

Outreach

Sandwich Sunday (slight change for October)

Come join us on the first Sunday of every month when we make 200 ham, turkey, and cheese sandwiches for those needing food in our community. Sandwich Sunday is normally held on the first Sunday of the month but due to October 6being our Blessing of the Pets and Animal Fair day, our next Sandwich Sunday will be October 13 following the 8:00 am service, in the Parish Hall.

Giving Plate

Our next Giving Plate Sunday is October 20 and the outreach ministry will will be supporting is Seaside Seabird Sanctuary.

Pack-a-Snack

Pack-a-Snack Volunteers Weekly Schedule:

Pack-a-Snack Volunteers for the Week of September 22nd:

Delivery: Bill Thomas, Thursday, 09/26/2024

Pack-a-Snack Volunteers for the Week of September 29th:

Purchasing: Laura & Bill Vrooman

Staging: Linda and Mike Davis

Packing: Toni and Pete Calabrese, Wednesday, 10/02/2024

Delivery: Toni and Pete Calabrese, Thursday, 10/03/2024

Pack-a-Snack Volunteers for the Week of October 6th:

Delivery: Mary Jane Cartier, Thursday, 10/10/2024

Pack-a-Snack Volunteers for the Week of October 13th:

Purchasing: Laura & Bill Vrooman

Staging: Linda and Mike Davis

Packing: Jordan Markham and the Chancel Choir of St. Thomas', Wednesday, 10/16/2024

Delivery: Cathy Ball, Thursday, 10/17/2024

Thanks to all for your help with Pack-a-Snack at 

St. Thomas' Episcopal Church

"Every time I take a step in the direction of generosity, I know I am moving from fear to love."

Henri Nouwen

The Gospel invites us to Walk in Love with our neighbor in their footsteps, with the outcast and the marginalized, with those who need us. As we spread the Good News in our world, we carry the love and support of our congregation and our prayers into our communities. When you share your many gifts with your neighbors, every step is walking in love.

Your 2025 Pledge Packet, including your commitment letter, will be mailed to you the second week of October. Please return the pledge letter on or before Sunday, October 27 - Consecration Sunday. All pledges received by mail will be placed in the alms basin on Consecration Sunday to be blessed as will those brought to church that day and turned in.

Fr. Ryan will once again present dramatic readings of two classic ghost stories. And this year, Organist and Choirmaster Jordan Markham will present several spooky organ works to accompany the ghost stories! This is an event for mature audiences, ages 14+.

News from the Diocese

The diocesan annual convention Walking Together as ONE will take place October 11 and 12 and will be live streamed. For more information on agendas, workshops, etc. please click on the button below.

Please keep St. Thomas' delegation in your prayers: Fr. Ryan, Deacon Martha, Mary Jane Park, Jack Day, Mary Clark, and Jonathan Mitchell.

Cursillo is Celebrating 150 Weekends!

The 150th weekend in the diocese will be celebrated on Saturday, September 28, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Christ Episcopal Church 4030 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Food and fun will be provided. For more information call Candy Newman, 941-704-6867.

News from the Episcopal Church

Save the Date - November 2

Our Presiding Bishop-elect Sean Rowe will have his investiture on November 2, 11:00 am  in the Chapel of Christ the Lord in The Episcopal Church Center in New York City, with a prelude beginning one hour earlier. There will be an extensive livestream production to support churchwide access and participation Stay tuned for more details.

Pastoral Care

Healing prayer with the imposition of holy oil is offered at the 10am Sunday service, and occasionally at 8am. After communion you are invited to come to the back of the church and receive a confidential healing prayer from a trained parishioner. Prayer ministers share the heart of Jesus' love and care, and are guided by the Holy Spirit to listen, love, and pray into your prayer requests for physical, emotional, and/or spiritual needs. Intercessory prayers for others can also be given. If you have any questions about the healing prayer ministry or feel called to serve, please call Joan Barns, 757-567-5488 or email joanmbarns@gmail.com.

St. Michael and All Angels

Michaelmas, or The Feast of St. Michael and All Angels, signifies the end of the harvest, the start of autumn and the beginning of the shorter days. An annual feast day, and 'quarter day' in the calendar, of the Western Christian Church, Michaelmas is traditionally celebrated on September 29. Michael was both saint and archangel. He is listed in the Book of Enoch as one of the seven archangels. In the fourth century, Saint Basil the Great's homily (De Angelis) placed Saint Michael over all the angels. He was called "Archangel" because he heralds other angels, the title Ἀρχαγγέλος (archangelos) being used of him in Jude 1:9. Saint Michael had several roles, chief among them was as the leader of the army of God.

Prayer:

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan,

and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.

[Feast Day: September 29]