THIS WEEKEND…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, February 24, 6pm: Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. We will be meeting at Amber Indian Restaurant at 6913 University Avenue in Middleton.

Musical Engagement with Scripture, Sunday, February 26, 9:40am: Join Rev. Miranda and help compose a simple chant based on the day’s Psalm. All ages welcome. We’ll gather in the Meeting Room.

Last Sunday All-Ages Worship: The Transfiguration of Jesus, Sunday, February 26, 10am: Out last Sunday worship is intended especially to help kids (and grownups who are new to our pattern of worship) to engage and participate fully. NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Middle School Lunch & Learn, Sunday, February 26, 12pm: Rev. Miranda invites the 10-and-up youth of the parish to meet with her for lunch after church once a month. We’ll dig into faith, Scripture, life, and our questions about all three. We’ll wrap up by 1pm, and we can arrange rides home for the kids if that helps the parents’ schedules.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, February 26, 7pm: Every fourth Sunday, a loyal group of St. Dunstan’s folk provides dinner for residents at the Grace Church shelter, and breakfast the next morning. See the signup sheet in the Gather Area to help out.

Sermons: If you find that it helps you to read along as Rev. Miranda preaches, sermons are usually available on the way into church. They’re also available online after church and during the week at www.stdunstans.com.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, March 4, 10am-12pm: We will be reading Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. The book was published in 1962 and documented the detrimental effects on the environment of the indiscriminate use of pesticides. Carson accused the chemical industry of spreading disinformation and public officials of unquestioning acceptance of their claims. The public outcry after the book’s publication forced the banning of DDT and spurred revolutionary changes in the laws affecting our air, land, and water. For more information, contact Jim Hindle.

First Sunday in Lent & Bishop’s Visitation, Sunday, March 5: Our Bishop, Bishop Steven Miller, will be visiting us next Sunday. He will celebrate and preach, and will be available for conversation between services at 9am. Cash placed in the Offering Plate this Sunday will go to Bishop’s Purse, a fund like the Rector’s Discretionary Fund which the Bishop can use to help various causes and needs in the life of the diocese.

Birthdays and Anniversary blessings and Healing Prayers will be given on Sunday, March 5, as is our custom on the first Sunday of the month.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, March 5, 6pm: Join us for a simple service as the week begins. All are welcome.

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, March 8, 1-2:45pm: We welcome everyone who is interested in learning more about contemplative spirituality in the Christian tradition. We meet every month for contemplative prayer and discussing the writings of Julian of Norwich, a 14th century English mystic who has been called “a theologian for our time.” We would love to have you join us.

Your Favorite Lecture: Islam 101, Sunday, March 12, 11:30am: Islam and Muslims are in the news, and many people have questions about the faith and its followers. Phil Hassett will share some basic information about Islam and answer your questions! All are welcome.

APPROACHING LENT…

Have you been baptized? The Prayer Book tells us, “Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body the Church.” From the earliest years of Christianity, the season of Lent (which begins February 10) was when new Christians studied the faith and prepared for baptism at Easter. If you have never been baptized, or aren’t sure, and would like to learn more about this rite, please contact Rev. Miranda at 238-2781.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 28, 5-6:30pm: Great food and fellowship! Join us and bring a friend for a tasty meal. Suggested donation of $5 per adult, $10 per household. Kids eat free. All proceeds go to support the St. Dunstan’s Campership Fund, which helps cover costs for St. Dunstan’s kids to attend Camp Webb, our diocesan summer camp. We’ve got more kids going every year, so please give generously! If you’d like to help out or contribute to the meal, see the signup sheets in the Gathering Area.

Ash Wednesday services will be at noon, 4pm, and 7pm on Wednesday, March 1. The 4pm service is especially intended for kids and families. Rev. Miranda will also offer Ashes-to-Go by the main driveway from 7:30 – 8:30am and 5 – 6pm.

Easter Flower Sign-Up: We will not have altar flowers in Lent, as part of our observance of a season of solemnity. If you would like to sign-up to sponsor and dedicate flowers for the Easter services, please see the yellow sign-up sheet in the Gathering Area.

Gospel of John Study Group, Wednesday nights, March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30pm at the McAlpine’s: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering this seven-session Wednesday night series, hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

Lenten Reading Book: This year St. Dunstan’s Virtual Book Group will be reading Evicted by Mathew Desmond. The book follows 8 families struggling with eviction and poverty in Milwaukee. We will discuss the book on a private Facebook page (to be set up on March 1st). Because the book is very emotionally involving, Evy Gildrie-Voyles will host an in-person discussion group at St. Dunstan’s on Fridays March 10th, March 24th, March 31st and April 7th at 6:00pm. A light soup and salad supper will be provided. If you would like to join please sign up in the Gathering Area. There are many copies of the book available in the Middleton Public Library. If would like to have your own copy, please let me know so we can order you one. Any questions, contact Evy Gildrie-Voyles.

THIS WEEKEND…

Rector’s Discretionary Fund, Sunday, February 19: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Sunday school, Sunday, February 19, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will continue exploring the parables of Jesus, while our Elementary classes will dig into Jesus’ call to generosity, even to the point of loving our enemies.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for March! Please consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee for more information.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, February 19, 11:30am: All who seek meaning in the journey of parenthood (at any age or stage) are welcome to come for food and conversation. Child care and a simple meal provided. The Children’s Choir will rehearse during this time.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 19, 6pm: Join us for a simple service as the week begins. All are welcome.

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, February 19, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney Way. Friends and partners welcome too.

OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE…

Seeking Hosts for Wondering Conversations! Would you like to host a group of 8 – 10 people in your home, to talk about ideas for our capital campaign? You don’t have to lead the conversation, just offer a space (and perhaps tea and cookies, or whatever you please!). These Wondering Conversations will take place in late February and early March. If you’d like to be a host, sign up in the Gathering Area or contact Inquiry & Input Team co-leader Mary Ann Fraley.

Conference on Water & Justice, March 22 – 24: Helpers Needed! St. Dunstan’s will be a “host site” for an upcoming conference on water, justice, and faith, by live-streaming conference presentations. This is an opportunity to learn more about a core Creation Care issue, and to share the learning opportunity with neighbors from other churches and the wider community. We are looking for a few more folks to help with event logistics – publicity, catering or planning meals, and hospitality at the event itself. Contact Kathy Whitt or Rev. Miranda at 238-2781 if you’d like to get involved. Read more here: https://www.trinitywallstreet.org/trinity-institute/2017/home

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, February 24, 6pm: Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. We will be meeting at Amber Indian Restaurant at 6913 University Avenue in Middleton.

Musical Engagement with Scripture, Sunday, February 26, 9:40am: Join Rev. Miranda and help compose a simple chant based on the day’s Psalm. All ages welcome. We’ll gather in the Meeting Room.

Last Sunday All-Ages Worship: The Transfiguration of Jesus, Sunday, February 26, 10am: Out last Sunday worship is intended especially to help kids (and grownups who are new to our pattern of worship) to engage and participate fully. NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Middle School Lunch & Learn, Sunday, February 26, 12pm: Rev. Miranda invites the 10-and-up youth of the parish to meet with her for lunch after church once a month. We’ll dig into faith, Scripture, life, and our questions about all three. We’ll wrap up by 1pm, and we can arrange rides home for the kids if that helps the parents’ schedules.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, February 26, 7pm: Every fourth Sunday, a loyal group of St. Dunstan’s folk provides dinner for residents at the Grace Church shelter, and breakfast the next morning. See the signup sheet in the Gather Area to help out. To learn more, talk with Rose Mueller.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, March 4, 10am-12pm: We will be reading Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. The book was published in 1962 and documented the detrimental effects on the environment of the indiscriminate use of pesticides. Carson accused the chemical industry of spreading disinformation and public officials of unquestioning acceptance of their claims. The public outcry after the book’s publication forced the banning of DDT and spurred revolutionary changes in the laws affecting our air, land, and water. For more information, contact Jim Hindle.

APPROACHING LENT…

Ash Wednesday services will be at noon, 4pm, and 7pm on Wednesday,  March 1. The 4pm service is especially intended for kids and families. Rev. Miranda will also offer Ashes to Go by the main driveway from 7:30 – 8:30am and 5 – 6pm.

Have you been baptized? The Prayer Book tells us, “Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body the Church.” From the earliest years of Christianity, the season of Lent (which begins February 10) was when new Christians studied the faith and prepared for baptism at Easter. If you have never been baptized, or aren’t sure, and would like to learn more about this rite, please contact Rev. Miranda at  238-2781.

Easter Flower Sign-Up: We will not have altar flowers in Lent, as part of our observance of a season of solemnity. If you would like to sign-up to sponsor and dedicate flowers for the Easter services, please see the yellow sign-up sheet in the Gathering Area.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 28, 5-6:30pm: Great food and fellowship! Join us and bring a friend for a tasty meal. Suggested donation of $5 per adult, $10 per household. Kids eat free. All proceeds go to support the St. Dunstan’s Campership Fund, which helps cover costs for St. Dunstan’s kids to attend Camp Webb, our diocesan summer camp. We’ve got more kids going every year, so please give generously!  If you’d like to help out or contribute to the meal, see the signup sheets in the Gathering Area.

Gospel of John Study Group, Wednesday nights, March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30pm at the McAlpine’s: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering this seven-session Wednesday night series, hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

Lenten Reading Book: This year St. Dunstan’s Virtual Book Group will be reading Evicted by Mathew Desmond. The book follows 8 families struggling with eviction and poverty in Milwaukee. We will discuss the book on a private Facebook page (to be set up on March 1st). Because the book is very emotionally involving, Evy Gildrie-Voyles will host an in-person discussion group at St. Dunstan’s on Fridays March 10th, March 24th, March 31st and April 7th at 6:00pm. A light soup and salad supper will be provided. If you would like to join please sign up in the Gathering Area. There are many copies of the book available in the Middleton Public Library. If would like to have your own copy, please let me know so we can order you one. Any questions, contact Evy Gildrie-Voyles.

Tonight…

Prayer Service for Refugees, Tonight, 5:30pm: This week’s Thursday evening Sandbox Worship will be a simple service of Scripture, song, and prayer for refugees. All are welcome, including kids and friends. We worship at 5:30 and share dinner afterwards.

THIS WEEKEND…

Draw Your Dreams; Using Art to Image St. Dunstan’s, Friday, February 10, 5pm: All ages are welcome. You don’t need to be “artsy” to do this! Dinner will be provided.

Nickel Tour #2: Upper Level, Sunday, February 12, 9am: This Sunday morning, we’ll take time to walk around our main building on the upper level and talk about each room and how it’s used, and could be used. Meet in the Gathering Area right after the 8am service.

Sunday school, Sunday, February 12, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will begin to explore the parables of Jesus, while our Elementary classes will explore Jesus’ teaching on integrity.

Having trouble receiving E-news? Please let Pamela in the office know if you are having trouble receiving the Thursday e-news. She can send you tips for fixing the situation.

OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE…

Seeking Hosts for Wondering Conversations! Would you like to host a group of 8 – 10 people in your home, to talk about ideas for our capital campaign? You don’t have to lead the conversation, just offer a space (and perhaps tea and cookies, or whatever you please!). These Wondering Conversations will take place in late February and early March. If you’d like to be a host, sign up in the Gathering Area or contact Inquiry & Input Team co-leader Mary Ann Fraley.

Conference on Water & Justice, March 22 – 24: Helpers Needed! St. Dunstan’s will be a “host site” for an upcoming conference on water, justice, and faith, by live-streaming conference presentations. This is an opportunity to learn more about a core Creation Care issue, and to share the learning opportunity with neighbors from other churches and the wider community. We are looking for a few more folks to help with event logistics – publicity, catering or planning meals, and hospitality at the event itself. Contact Kathy Whitt or Rev. Miranda 238-2781 if you’d like to get involved. Read more here: https://www.trinitywallstreet.org/trinity-institute/2017/home

 THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Rector’s Discretionary Fund, Sunday, February 19: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Sunday school, Sunday, February 19, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will continue exploring the parables of Jesus, while our Elementary classes will dig into Jesus’ call to generosity, even to the point of loving our enemies.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for March! Please consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee for more information.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, February 19, 11:30am: All who seek meaning in the journey of parenthood (at any age or stage) are welcome to come for food and conversation. Child care and a simple meal provided. The Children’s Choir will rehearse during this time.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 19, 6pm: Join us for a simple service as the week begins. All are welcome.

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, February 19, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney Way. Friends and partners welcome too.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, February 24, 6pm: Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. We will be meeting at Amber Indian Restaurant at 6913 University Avenue in Middleton.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, March 4, 10am-12pm: We will be reading Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. The book was published in 1962 and documented the detrimental effects on the environment of the indiscriminate use of pesticides. Carson accused the chemical industry of spreading disinformation and public officials of unquestioning acceptance of their claims. The public outcry after the book’s publication forced the banning of DDT and spurred revolutionary changes in the laws affecting our air, land, and water.

APPROACHING LENT…

Have you been baptized? The Prayer Book tells us, “Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body the Church.” From the earliest years of Christianity, the season of Lent (which begins February 10) was when new Christians studied the faith and prepared for baptism at Easter. If you have never been baptized, or aren’t sure, and would like to learn more about this rite, please contact Rev. Miranda at 238-2781.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 28, 5-6:30pm: Great food and fellowship! Join us and bring a friend for a tasty meal. Suggested donation of $5 per adult, $10 per household. Kids eat free. All proceeds go to support the St. Dunstan’s Campership Fund, which helps cover costs for St. Dunstan’s kids to attend Camp Webb, our diocesan summer camp. We’ve got more kids going every year, so please give generously!  If you’d like to help out or contribute to the meal, see the signup sheets in the Gathering Area.

Gospel of John Study Group, Wednesday nights, March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30pm at the McAlpine’s: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering this seven-session Wednesday night series, hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

OPPORTUNITIES FROM THE WIDER CHURCH…

Wisconsin Conference of Churches Winter Forum, March 3-4: “Trouble I’ve Seen:  Changing the Way the Church Views Racism,” Sun Prairie United Methodist Church: Dr. Drew Hart is a professor in theology, an author, and an activist with ten years of pastoral experience. Regularly speaking at churches, conferences, and colleges, Drew brings together his pastoral experience with his academic training to challenge the Church on a variety of topics, including white supremacy and racism and their entanglements with western Christianity, Christian discipleship, liberation and oppression, peacemaking and nonviolent resistance, and more. Sun Prairie UMC is at 702 North Street, Sun Prairie, WI. For more information or to register, go to www.wichurches.org .

If you’d like more news of events and opportunities around our diocese, you can sign up for the Diocesan E-News by emailing .

THIS WEEKEND…

SEEDFOLKS, February 2 – 4 at 7:30pm at the Middleton Performing Arts Center: When a young Vietnamese girl plants beans in a vacant lot to connect with the memory of her father, the diverse group of locals who take notice find a connection of their own in a spirited effort to re-imagine their run-down neighborhood. In this “spoken musical,” adapted from the award-winning novel of the same name, the voices of characters from far-flung backgrounds converge in a rhythmic hymn to community. Many members of St. Dunstan’s read the book Seedfolks together two years ago; this is a wonderful opportunity to revisit the story in another form. Take an evening this weekend to attend! NOTE: A small group will be attending together TONIGHT, Thursday, Feb. 2; feel free to meet us at the PAC.

Nickel Tour #1: The Lower Level, Sunday, February 5, 9am: This Sunday morning, we’ll take time to walk around our main building on the lower level and talk about each room and how it’s used, and could be used. Meet in the Gathering Area right after the 8am service.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored and Healing Prayers will be offered this Sunday, February 5, as is our custom on the first Sunday of the month.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, February 5: This Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Here are the current top-ten, most needed items: canned meat (other than tuna); pork & beans; baked beans, variety pasta; pasta & pizza sauce; shelf stable cheese (ex. parmesan); canned/dried fruit; cooking/olive oil; sugar/honey/syrup; toilet paper. Thanks for all your support!

Falk Food Friends Special Project: Packing Medical Kits, Sunday, February 5, 11:30am: We have learned that some families with kids at Falk Elementary, our partner school, lack basic home first aid supplies. So we’re packing 15 simple medical kits to send home to the households in greatest need. The supplies are all ready, we just have to put them together! Gather in the Meeting Room after church to help out.

Cook & Sing Your Dreams, Sunday, February 5, 5pm: Potluck & Song Fest. Bring a dish that represents something you love about St. Dunstan’s, or something you hope for its future. Then we’ll sing songs that really feel like core songs of our community of faith – bring your suggestions!

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 5, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for February and March! We need a coffee host for February 19 and there are many openings in March. Please consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee at (608) 836-9755 for more information.

Having trouble receiving E-news? Please let Pamela in the office know if you are having trouble receiving the Thursday e-news. She will send you Phil’s tips for fixing the situation.

NEXT WEEK & BEYOND…

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, February 8, 1:00 to 2:45 PM (Note new time): Julian of Norwich was a 15th Century English mystic and anchoress. Nearly forgotten for 600 years, Julian’s insights and gentle wisdom are becoming ever more widely known and appreciated.  The monthly Julian Gatherings, supported by the Order of Julian of Norwich (www.orderofjulian.org), are open to all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer. Each meeting begins with brief instruction in the practice of contemplative prayer, and includes time for contemplative prayer, fellowship, and reading/discussion of Julian’s book. We meet the second Wednesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:45 PM.

Valentine’s Day Crafts and Carving, Wednesday, February 8, 6:30-8pm: Want to make your own card for that special someone in your life? Want to try carving wood and meet some new people or catch up with ones you already know? This evening will feature craft time upstairs, including stamping & paper-crafting, and a carving circle downstairs. All skill levels welcome! For more information, contact Alex Surasky-Ysasi.

Draw Your Dreams; Using Art to Image St. Dunstan’s, Friday, February 10, 5pm: All ages are welcome. You don’t need to be “artsy” to do this! Dinner will be provided.

Nickel Tour #2: Upper Level, Sunday, February 12, 9am: This Sunday morning, we’ll take time to walk around our main building on the upper level and talk about each room and how it’s used, and could be used. Meet in the Gathering Area right after the 8am service.

Sunday school, Sunday, February 12, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will begin to explore the parables of Jesus, while our Elementary classes will explore Jesus’ teaching on integrity.

DISCERNMENT SUNDAY, February 19, 2017: On Sunday, February 19, our Capital Campaign Consultant Crystal Plummer will visit with us. She will speak at both the 8am and 10am services, and will be available between services and over Coffee Hour to answer questions and talk more about our shared work. Crystal will address several topics:

• About Episcopal Church Foundation (ECF), our consultant partners in this work
• What does it mean for a church to have a capital campaign?
• The Discernment Phase & an invitation to take part in Wondering Conversations

This Sunday will also kick off our Wondering Conversations! These Conversations will take place in late February and early March. You’ll be invited to sign up for a time and place to come gather with 8 – 10 other St. Dunstan’s members to talk about possibilities for our parish and our capital campaign.  EVERYONE is encouraged to participate, including kids and people who have joined the church recently.  If you can’t attend on Feb. 19, you will still be able to sign up for a Wondering Conversation.

Gospel of John Study Group, Wednesday nights, March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30pm at the McAlpine’s: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering this seven-session Wednesday night series, hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN DISCERNMENT PROCESS: OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE…

Seeking Hosts for Wondering Conversations! Would you like to host a group of 8 – 10 people in your home, to talk about ideas for our capital campaign? You don’t have to lead the conversation, just offer a space (and perhaps tea and cookies, or whatever you please!). These Wondering Conversations will take place in late February and early March. If you’d like to be a host, sign up in the Gathering Area or contact Inquiry & Input Team co-leader Mary Ann Fraley.

Seeking Facilitators for Wondering Conversations! The heart of our work as a parish discerning whether we are called to undertake a capital campaign at this time, and what projects would be the focus of that campaign, will be a series of small group conversations held in late February and early March – our “Wondering Conversations.” The Inquiry & Input Team is seeking a few willing folks to serve as facilitators for these conversations. Facilitators will need to attend a training on Saturday, February 18, and are asked to facilitate at least two gatherings between February 19 and March 7. (Gatherings will be held at many different times, to accommodate everyone’s schedules.) If you’d like to serve as a Facilitator, please sign up in the Gathering Area or speak to Inquiry & Input Co-Chairs Celia Fine & Mary Ann Fraley, or to Rev. Miranda.

OPPORTUNITIES FROM THE WIDER CHURCH…

A Brush With God Art Workshop, February 11, at St. Mary’s Church, Dousman: St. Mary’s, Dousman welcomes members and guests to join us for a discussion and exploration of the creative process, a uniquely human experience that connects us to our Creator.  Using both traditional and non-traditional art materials, retreat participants will create their own artwork(s).  All supplies will be included and no prior art experience is required.  This event will run from 8:45 – 12:00. Childcare will be provided. St. Mary’s is about an hour away, at 36014 Sunset Dr., Dousman, WI. Please RSVP (so that adequate art supplies will be on hand) by contacting the church office at (262) 965-3924.

Wisconsin Conference of Churches Winter Forum, March 3-4: “Trouble I’ve Seen:  Changing the Way the Church Views Racism,” Sun Prairie United Methodist Church: Dr. Drew Hart is a professor in theology, an author, and an activist with ten years of pastoral experience. Regularly speaking at churches, conferences, and colleges, Drew brings together his pastoral experience with his academic training to challenge the Church on a variety of topics, including white supremacy and racism and their entanglements with western Christianity, Christian discipleship, liberation and oppression, peacemaking and nonviolent resistance, and more. Sun Prairie UMC is at 702 North Street, Sun Prairie, WI. For more information or to register, go to www.wichurches.org .

If you’d like more news of events and opportunities around our diocese, you can sign up for the Diocesan E-News by emailing .

SUMMER DATES FOR PLANNING….

Camp Webb 2016 (June 18 – 24) is accepting applications now! Camp Webb is an outdoor ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, for children and youth grades 3 through senior high. It is held at a camp outside Elkhorn, WI. Camp tuition is $375 if you register before January 15, with a deposit of $75 due at the time of registration. St. Dunstan’s offers $150 in aid to all our campers, with additional assistance possible; contact Rev. Miranda for financial assistance.  Visit http://www.diomil.org/forming-disciples/camp-webb/ for registration forms. Camp Webb IS EXPECTED TO FILL this year, so apply soon!

Vacation Bible School 2017, July 30 – August 3: Our Vacation Bible School this summer is planned for Sunday, July 30, through Thursday, August 3. We’ll meet in the evenings – likely 5:30 to 7:30pm, as in previous years. Keep these dates in mind as you make your summer plans! Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; middle school and older kids will be involved as actors and helpers.

Women’s Mini-Week, August 10-13: The mission of Women’s Mini-Week is to provide an annual retreat event for adult women, offering refuge, friendship, relaxation, and fun. Mini-Week combines opportunities to learn with fellowship, spiritual exploration and delicious food as we invite all women to participate as much or as little as they would like and need. Mini-Week is held at a beautiful lakeside camp in northern Wisconsin. Many members of St. Dunstan’s have attended, planned, and led, over the years. Visit womensminiweek.org to learn more and make Mini-Week part of your summer plans.

THIS WEEKEND…

Friday, January 27, 5pm: Build Your Dreams: Using Lego to Build St. Dunstan’s Future.  All ages welcome. Come as you’re able! Lego and dinner provided.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, January 27, 6pm: We will kick off 2017 by meeting up at Oliva, 751 N. High Point Road, Madison (in the same shopping center as Alicia Ashman Library). Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s.

Church Book Club meeting, Saturday, January 28, 10am: The book is La Rose by Louise Erdrich. In this literary masterwork, Louise Erdrich wields her breathtaking narrative magic in an emotionally haunting contemporary tale of a tragic accident, a demand for justice, and a profound act of atonement with ancient roots in Native American culture. For more information, contact Jim Hindle.

Your Favorite Lecture: Dr. Mariana Hewson – Sunday, January 29: “Your Favorite Lecture” is an occasional 9am opportunity for some of our many members who are scholars, educators, and thinkers of deep thoughts to talk about things they love to talk about. Mariana Hewson, a scholar of indigenous healing traditions, will read a story she has written. All are welcome!

Candlemas Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, January 29, 10am: We will celebrate Candlemas with a brief story and candle-lighting prayers at the end of our 10am liturgy. Bring your flashlights and emergency candles from home to be blessed! At 9am there will be candle-making in the downstairs classroom, for kids to make a small set of candles to take home.

Middle School Lunch & Learn, Sunday, January 29, 12-1pm: Rev. Miranda invites the 10-and-up youth of the parish to meet with her for lunch after church once a month. We’ll dig into faith, Scripture, life, and our questions about all three. We’ll wrap up by 1pm, and we can arrange rides home for the kids if that helps the parents’ schedules.

Last Chance: Congregational Survey about Music at St. Dunstan’s. Thanks to all who have shared their thoughts. If you haven’t yet, please do. You should have received links to the survey via our weekly E-news; call the office (238-2781) if you need the links re-sent. The survey will close on January 29.

Survival Backpacks: Thanks to all who have taken slips to buy items for backpacks for homeless teens in Madison! Please return your items by Sunday, January 29. Questions? Contact Bonnie Magnuson.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for 2017! Consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee.

NEXT WEEK & BEYOND…

Nickel Tour #1: The Lower Level, Sunday, February 5, 9am: This Sunday morning, we’ll take time to walk around our main building on the lower level and talk about each room and how it’s used, and could be used. Meet in the Gathering Area right after the 8am service.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored and Healing Prayers will be offered next Sunday, February 5, as is our custom on the first Sunday of the month.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, February 5: Next Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Here are the current top-ten, most needed items: canned meat (other than tuna); pork & beans; baked beans, variety pasta; pasta & pizza sauce; shelf stable cheese (ex. parmesan); canned/dried fruit; cooking/olive oil; sugar/honey/syrup; toilet paper. Thanks for all your support!

Falk Food Friends Special Project: Packing Medical Kits, Sunday, February 5, 11:30am: We have learned that some families with kids at Falk Elementary, our partner school, lack basic home first aid supplies. So we’re packing 15 simple medical kits to send home to the households in greatest need. The supplies are all ready, we just have to put them together! Gather in the Meeting Room after church to help out.

Cook & Sing Your Dreams, Sunday, February 5, 5pm: Potluck & Song Fest. Bring a dish that represents something you love about St. Dunstan’s, or something you hope for its future. Then we’ll sing songs that really feel like core songs of our community of faith – bring your suggestions!

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 5, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, February 8, 1:00 to 2:45 PM (Note new time): Julian of Norwich was a 15th Century English mystic and anchoress. Nearly forgotten for 600 years, Julian’s insights and gentle wisdom are becoming ever more widely known and appreciated.  The monthly Julian Gatherings, supported by the Order of Julian of Norwich (www.orderofjulian.org), are open to all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer. Each meeting begins with brief instruction in the practice of contemplative prayer, and includes time for contemplative prayer, fellowship, and reading/discussion of Julian’s book. We meet the second Wednesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:45 PM. For additional information, contact Susan Fiore.

Draw Your Dreams; Using Art to Image St. Dunstan’s, Friday, February 10, 5pm: All ages are welcome. You don’t need to be “artsy” to do this! Dinner will be provided.

Gospel of John Study Group, Wednesday nights, March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30pm at the McAlpine’s: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering this seven-session Wednesday night series, hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN DISCERNMENT PROCESS: OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE…

Seeking Hosts for Wondering Conversations! Would you like to host a group of 8 – 10 people in your home, to talk about ideas for our capital campaign? You don’t have to lead the conversation, just offer a space (and perhaps tea and cookies, or whatever you please!). These Wondering Conversations will take place in late February and early March. If you’d like to be a host, sign up in the Gathering Area or contact Inquiry & Input Team co-leader Mary Ann Fraley.

Seeking Facilitators for Wondering Conversations! The heart of our work as a parish discerning whether we are called to undertake a capital campaign at this time, and what projects would be the focus of that campaign, will be a series of small group conversations held in late February and early March – our “Wondering Conversations.” The Inquiry & Input Team is seeking a few willing folks to serve as facilitators for these conversations. Facilitators will need to attend a training on Saturday, February 18, and are asked to facilitate at least two gatherings between February 19 and March 7. (Gatherings will be held at many different times, to accommodate everyone’s schedules.) If you’d like to serve as a Facilitator, please sign up in the Gathering Area or speak to Inquiry & Input Co-Chairs Celia Fine & Mary Ann Fraley, or to Rev. Miranda.

SUMMER DATES FOR PLANNING….

Camp Webb 2016 (June 18 – 24) is accepting applications now! Camp Webb is an outdoor ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, for children and youth grades 3 through senior high. It is held at a camp outside Elkhorn, WI. Camp tuition is $375 if you register before January 15, with a deposit of $75 due at the time of registration. St. Dunstan’s offers $150 in aid to all our campers, with additional assistance possible; contact Rev. Miranda for financial assistance.  Visit http://www.diomil.org/forming-disciples/camp-webb/ for registration forms. Camp Webb IS EXPECTED TO FILL this year, so apply soon!

Vacation Bible School 2017, July 30 – August 3: Our Vacation Bible School this summer is planned for Sunday, July 30, through Thursday, August 3. We’ll meet in the evenings – likely 5:30 to 7:30pm, as in previous years. Keep these dates in mind as you make your summer plans! Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; middle school and older kids will be involved as actors and helpers.

Women’s Mini-Week, August 10-13: The mission of Women’s Mini-Week is to provide an annual retreat event for adult women, offering refuge, friendship, relaxation, and fun. Mini-Week combines opportunities to learn with fellowship, spiritual exploration and delicious food as we invite all women to participate as much or as little as they would like and need. Mini-Week is held at a beautiful lakeside camp in northern Wisconsin. Many members of St. Dunstan’s have attended, planned, and led, over the years. Visit womensminiweek.org to learn more and make Mini-Week part of your summer plans.

THIS WEEKEND…

Reminder: Congregational Survey about Music at St. Dunstan’s. Thanks to all who have shared their thoughts. If you haven’t yet, please do. You should have received links to the survey via our weekly E-news. The survey will close on January 29.  If you didn’t get the links, or prefer to share your thoughts on paper or in person, contact the office at 238-2781 or .

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 22, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2016 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

Bake Sale for Haiti! Sunday, January 22: Our Sunday school students are trying to raise money to cover school fees for a child in Jeannette, Haiti. They’d like to hold a bake sale in January. Please consider baking or making a treat with your child (sweet or savory) and bringing it on Sunday morning to contribute to the sale. If you are that parent who would rather just donate $10 than bake something, that’s cool too. :-) Questions, ideas, offers to help? Contact Sarah Errington.

Sunday School, Sunday, January 22, during the 10am liturgy: Our youngest class will explore baptism, while our Elementary classes read about Jesus calling his first followers.

Christian Formation Committee Meeting, Sunday, January 22, 11:45am: Our Christian Formation Committee will meet to review and plan programs, especially for Lent, Easter and beyond. All interested people are welcome to attend and participate.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, January 22, 7pm: Every fourth Sunday, a loyal group of St. Dunstan’s folk provides dinner for residents at the Grace Church shelter, and breakfast the next morning. See the signup sheet in the gathering area to help out. To learn more, talk with Rose Mueller.

Survival Backpacks: Thanks to all who have taken slips to buy items for backpacks for homeless teens in Madison! Please return your items by Sunday, January 29. Questions? Contact Bonnie Magnuson.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for 2017! Consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee  for more information.

NEXT WEEK & BEYOND…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, January 27, 6pm: We will kick off 2017 by meeting up at Oliva, 751 N. High Point Road, Madison (in the same shopping center as Alicia Ashman Library). Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s.

Church Book Club meeting, Saturday, January 28, 10am: The book is La Rose by Louise Erdrich. In this literary masterwork, Louise Erdrich wields her breathtaking narrative magic in an emotionally haunting contemporary tale of a tragic accident, a demand for justice, and a profound act of atonement with ancient roots in Native American culture. For more information, contact Jim Hindle.

Your Favorite Lecture: Dr. Mariana Hewson – Sunday, January 29: “Your Favorite Lecture” is an occasional 9am opportunity for some of our many members who are scholars, educators, and thinkers of deep thoughts to talk about things they love to talk about. Mariana Hewson, a scholar of indigenous healing traditions, will read a story she has written. All are welcome!

Candlemas Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, January 29: We will celebrate Candlemas with a brief story and candle-lighting prayers at the end of our 10am liturgy. Bring your flashlights and emergency candles from home to be blessed! We also plan to have a candle-making station set up for people to make a small set of candles to take home.

Falk Food Friends Special Project: Packing Medical Kits, Sunday, February 5, 11:30am: We have learned that some families with kids at Falk Elementary, our partner school, lack basic home first aid supplies. So we’re packing 15 simple medical kits to send home to the households in greatest need. The supplies are all ready, we just have to put them together! Gather in the Meeting Room after church to help out.

Gospel of John Study Group: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering a seven-session Wednesday night series (March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30 PM), hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, February 8, 1:00 to 2:45 PM (Note new time): Julian of Norwich was a 15th Century English mystic and anchoress. Nearly forgotten for 600 years, Julian’s insights and gentle wisdom are becoming ever more widely known and appreciated.  The monthly Julian Gatherings, supported by the Order of Julian of Norwich (www.orderofjulian.org), are open to all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer. Each meeting begins with brief instruction in the practice of contemplative prayer, and includes time for contemplative prayer, fellowship, and reading/discussion of Julian’s book. We meet the second Wednesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:45 PM. For additional information, contact Susan Fiore.

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN DISCERNMENT PROCESS: OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE…

Seeking Hosts for Wondering Conversations! Would you like to host a group of 8 – 10 people in your home, to talk about ideas for our capital campaign? You don’t have to lead the conversation, just offer a space (and perhaps tea and cookies, or whatever you please!). These Wondering Conversations will take place in late February and early March. If you’d like to be a host, sign up in the Gathering Area or contact Inquiry & Input Team co-leader Mary Ann Fraley.

Seeking Facilitators for Wondering Conversations! The heart of our work as a parish discerning whether we are called to undertake a capital campaign at this time, and what projects would be the focus of that campaign, will be a series of small group conversations held in late February and early March – our “Wondering Conversations.” The Inquiry & Input Team is seeking a few willing folks to serve as facilitators for these conversations. Facilitators will need to attend a training on Saturday, February 18, and are asked to facilitate at least two gatherings between February 19 and March 7. (Gatherings will be held at many different times, to accommodate everyone’s schedules.) If you’d like to serve as a Facilitator, please sign up in the Gathering Area or speak to Inquiry & Input Co-Chairs Celia Fine & Mary Ann Fraley, or to Rev. Miranda.

SUMMER DATES FOR PLANNING….

Camp Webb 2016 (June 18 – 24) is accepting applications now! Camp Webb is an outdoor ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, for children and youth grades 3 through senior high. It is held at a camp outside Elkhorn, WI. Camp tuition is $375 if you register before January 15, with a deposit of $75 due at the time of registration. St. Dunstan’s offers $150 in aid to all our campers, with additional assistance possible; contact Rev. Miranda for financial assistance.  Visit http://www.diomil.org/forming-disciples/camp-webb/ for registration forms. Camp Webb IS EXPECTED TO FILL this year, so apply soon!

Vacation Bible School 2017, July 30 – August 3: Our Vacation Bible School this summer is planned for Sunday, July 30, through Thursday, August 3. We’ll meet in the evenings – likely 5:30 to 7:30pm, as in previous years. Keep these dates in mind as you make your summer plans! Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; middle school and older kids will be involved as actors and helpers.

Women’s Mini-Week, August 10-13: The mission of Women’s Mini-Week is to provide an annual retreat event for adult women, offering refuge, friendship, relaxation, and fun. Mini-Week combines opportunities to learn with fellowship, spiritual exploration and delicious food as we invite all women to participate as much or as little as they would like and need. Mini-Week is held at a beautiful lakeside camp in northern Wisconsin. Many members of St. Dunstan’s have attended, planned, and led, over the years. Visit womensminiweek.org to learn more and make Mini-Week part of your summer plans.

THIS WEEKEND…

Your Favorite Lecture: Dr. Mariana Hewson – POSTPONED to Sunday, January 29: “Your Favorite Lecture” is an occasional 9am opportunity for some of our many members who are scholars, educators, and thinkers of deep thoughts to talk about things they love to talk about. Mariana Hewson, a scholar of indigenous healing traditions, will read a story she has written. All are welcome!

Epiphany Pageant, Sunday, January 15: The children of St. Dunstan’s will present a pageant telling the story of Jesus’ birth and the visit of the Wise Men on Sunday, January 15. All kids are welcome to participate! All kids with speaking parts: PLEASE BE AT CHURCH by 9:20 to rehearse the pageant once more before we offer it during 10am liturgy.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, January 15, 11:30am: All who seek meaning in the journey of parenthood (at any age or stage) are welcome to come for food and conversation. Child care and a simple meal provided.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, January 15: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks, will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, January 15, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, January 15, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney Way. Friends and partners welcome too.

Music Survey: We are seeking congregational input about our choir and music ministries, as we begin the process of seeking a new Organist & Choir Director in anticipation of Martin’s retirement later this year. If you’re on St. Dunstan’s e-news list, you should have received a message this week inviting you to take a simple survey. If you didn’t get the message, or prefer to share your thoughts on paper or in person, contact the office at 238-2781 or .

Survival Backpacks: We are collecting items to fill backpacks for homeless high school youth in the Madison school system. These are youth who have run away from or been kicked out of their homes and families. They need basic necessities in a simple form that they can carry with them. Please check the window in the Gathering Area for items still needed. Take a slip, buy the items, and bring them back by Sunday, January 29. Thanks for your generosity! Questions? Contact Bonnie Magnuson.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for 2017! Consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee.

2017 Pledge Envelopes: If you would like pledge envelopes and haven’t already ordered them, please contact Val McAuliffe.

NEXT WEEK & BEYOND…

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 22, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2017 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

Bake Sale for Haiti! Sunday, January 22: Our Sunday school students are trying to raise money to cover school fees for a child in Jeannette, Haiti. They’d like to hold a bake sale in January. Please consider baking or making a treat with your child (sweet or savory) and bringing it on Sunday morning to contribute to the sale. If you are that parent who would rather just donate $10 than bake something, that’s cool too. :-) Questions, ideas, offers to help? Contact Sarah Errington.

Sunday School, Sunday, January 22, during the 10am liturgy: Our youngest class will explore baptism, while our Elementary classes read about Jesus calling his first followers.

Christian Formation Committee Meeting, Sunday, January 22, 11:45am: Our Christian Formation Committee will meet to review and plan programs, especially for Lent, Easter and beyond. All interested people are welcome to attend and participate.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, January 27, 6pm: We will kick off 2017 by meeting up at Oliva, 751 N. High Point Road, Madison (in the same shopping center as Alicia Ashman Library). Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s.

Church Book Club meeting, Saturday, January 28, 10am: The book is La Rose by Louise Erdrich. In this literary masterwork, Louise Erdrich wields her breathtaking narrative magic in an emotionally haunting contemporary tale of a tragic accident, a demand for justice, and a profound act of atonement with ancient roots in Native American culture. For more information, contact Jim Hindle.

Candlemas Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, January 29: We will celebrate Candlemas with a brief story and candle-lighting prayers at the end of our 10am liturgy. Bring your flashlights and emergency candles from home to be blessed! We also plan to have a candle-making station set up for people to make a small set of candles to take home.

Gospel of John Study Group: Nicodemus, the Samaritan Woman, the man born blind, Martha & Mary of Bethany: just some of the witnesses the Gospel according to John assembles to enrich our own encounter with Jesus. This year the Daily Office Lectionary has us reading that Gospel from the last week of Epiphany through the second week of Easter. If you’d like to read it and reflect on it with others, St. Dunstan’s is offering a seven-session Wednesday night series (March 8 – April 26, omitting Holy Week, 6:30-8:30 PM), hosted by the McAlpines in Fitchburg. There’s a sign-up for the study so we know how many manuscripts to prepare and how much coffee to brew.

SUMMER DATES FOR PLANNING….

Camp Webb 2016 (June 18 – 24) is accepting applications now! Camp Webb is an outdoor ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, for children and youth grades 3 through senior high. It is held at a camp outside Elkhorn, WI. Camp tuition is $375 if you register before January 15, with a deposit of $75 due at the time of registration. St. Dunstan’s offers $150 in aid to all our campers, with additional assistance possible; contact Rev. Miranda for financial assistance.  Visit http://www.diomil.org/forming-disciples/camp-webb/ for registration forms. Camp Webb IS EXPECTED TO FILL this year, so apply soon!

Vacation Bible School 2017, July 30 – August 3: Our Vacation Bible School this summer is planned for Sunday, July 30, through Thursday, August 3. We’ll meet in the evenings – likely 5:30 to 7:30pm, as in previous years. Keep these dates in mind as you make your summer plans! Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; middle school and older kids will be involved as actors and helpers.

Women’s Mini-Week, August 10-13: The mission of Women’s Mini-Week is to provide an annual retreat event for adult women, offering refuge, friendship, relaxation, and fun. Mini-Week combines opportunities to learn with fellowship, spiritual exploration and delicious food as we invite all women to participate as much or as little as they would like and need. Mini-Week is held at a beautiful lakeside camp in northern Wisconsin. Many members of St. Dunstan’s have attended, planned, and led, over the years. Visit womensminiweek.org to learn more and make Mini-Week part of your summer plans.

THIS WEEKEND…

Epiphany Service of Light, Friday, January 6, 5:30pm: Join us as we share the story of the Wise Men who came to honor the infant Jesus, and of how the light of Christ has spread through time and space all the way to here & now! A simple meal will follow the service; feel free to bring something to share. All are welcome. Talk to Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes if you’d like to be a reader for this service.

Sunday School, Sunday, January 8, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will learn about Epiphany, while our Elementary classes will reflect together on the baptism of Jesus.

Epiphany Pageant Practice: There will be a rehearsal after church at 11:30am this Sunday the 8th.  All kids are welcome to participate!

Looking for Coffee Hosts for January 2017 and Beyond! Consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee for more information.

Vestry nominations are open! Would you be interested in serving on our vestry, our church’s governing body? Is there someone else you think would be a great candidate? Job descriptions and a box for nominations are in the Gathering Area. Open nominations will run throughout December.  We will be electing two new vestry members in January 2017. Wardens and Diocesan Convention deputies must be elected every year, so candidates for Junior and Senior Warden may also be nominated.

Call for Annual Report Submissions: Every year in December/January, we invite our ministry leaders to submit a paragraph or two about what their ministry is and what they’ve done in the past year, and compile those reports into an Annual Report, shared with the congregation in advance of our parish Annual Meeting (9am on Sunday, January 22). This year we thought we’d cast the net more widely. If you have something you’d like to share, as a special moment, thanksgiving, or success to share, whether from a particular ministry or just something from the life of this household of faith, you’re welcome to submit it to . The deadline for all Annual Report materials is Friday, January 13.

NEXT WEEK & BEYOND…

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, January 11, 1:00-3:00pm (NOTE time change): St. Julian of Norwich: 14th Century psychologist? Sort of . . . she understood the human heart and, through her sixteen revelations of Jesus, she understood the heart of God. Come to one of our monthly meetings and learn about St. Julian and contemplative prayer. We meet the second Wednesday of each month. We’d love to see you.

Your Favorite Lecture: Dr. Mariana Hewson, 9am, Sunday, January 15: “Your Favorite Lecture” is an occasional 9am opportunity for some of our many members who are scholars, educators, and thinkers of deep thoughts to talk about things they love to talk about. Mariana Hewson, a scholar of indigenous healing traditions, will read a story she has written. All are welcome!

Epiphany Pageant, Sunday, January 15: The children of St. Dunstan’s will present a pageant telling the story of Jesus’ birth and the visit of the Wise Men on Sunday, January 15. All kids are welcome to participate!

Spirituality of Parent Lunch, Sunday, January 15, 11:30am: All who seek meaning in the journey of parenthood (at any age or stage) are welcome to come for food and conversation. Child care and a simple meal provided.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, January 15: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks, will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, January 15, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, January 15, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney way. Friends and partners welcome too.

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 22, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2017 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

Christian Formation Committee Meeting, Sunday, January 22, 11:45am: Our Christian Formation Committee will meet to review and plan programs, especially for Lent, Easter and beyond. All interested people are welcome to attend and participate.

Church Book Club meeting, Saturday, January 28, 10am: The book is La Rose by Louise Erdrich. In this literary masterwork, Louise Erdrich wields her breathtaking narrative magic in an emotionally haunting contemporary tale of a tragic accident, a demand for justice, and a profound act of atonement with ancient roots in Native American culture. For more information, contact Jim Hindle.

Candlemas Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, January 29: We will celebrate Candlemas with a brief story and candle-lighting prayers at the end of our 10am liturgy. Bring your flashlights and emergency candles from home to be blessed! We also plan to have a candle-making station set up for people to make a small set of candles to take home.

TONIGHT AND THIS WEEK…

The Longest Night: A Liturgy of Light in Darkness, Thursday, December 22, 6:30pm (dinner at 5:30pm): On December 22th, we will gather together out of the darkness of the season for a quiet, meditative worship service. Feel free to invite friends who might appreciate this time set apart to name the darkness in the world and in our lives, and prepare our hearts for the coming of the light of Christ. Contact Rev. Miranda at 238-2781 with any questions.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services:

Family Service with Pageant, Saturday, December 24, 3pm

Festal Eucharist, Saturday, December 24, 9pm

Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, 10am (NO 8am service!)

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE NOTES…

The Parish Office will be closed on Friday, December 23 and will reopen on Monday, January 2nd.

Youth Group will NOT meet on December 23 or 30.

Sandbox Worship will NOT meet on December 29 or January 5th.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, December 25, 7pm: Every fourth Sunday, a loyal group of St. Dunstan’s folk provides dinner for residents at the Grace Church shelter, and breakfast the next morning. See the signup sheet in the Gathering Area to help out. To learn more, talk with Rose Mueller.

Diaper Drive Update: Many families in our area are struggling financially, and they have to make tough decisions about whether to buy much-needed diapers or groceries or pay their rent. The FoodShare program (food stamps) does not cover diapers, other personal care items, or household cleaners. Imagine needing to change your baby’s diaper, but only having a couple left and no money for more.
Pantries are always looking for large-sized diapers. We held a diaper drive this year and raised $2100!  We have donated over 13,200 diapers—enough to diaper two children from birth to potty training—to pantries all over Madison and beyond.
Thank you all for your incredible generosity!

Vestry nominations are open! Would you be interested in serving on our vestry, our church’s governing body? Is there someone else you think would be a great candidate? Job descriptions and a box for nominations are in the Gathering Area. Open nominations will run throughout December.  We will be electing two new vestry members in January 2017. Wardens and Diocesan Convention deputies must be elected every year, so candidates for Junior and Senior Warden may also be nominated. 

NEXT WEEKEND & BEYOND…

Birthday and Anniversary blessings and Healing Prayers will be given next Sunday, January 1, as is our custom on the first Sunday of the month.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, January 1, 6pm: Join us for a simple service as the week (and the New Year) begins. All are welcome.

 MOM Special Offering, Sunday, January 1: Next Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Here are the current to-ten, most needed items: canned chicken, shelf-stable milk, whole grains; salt, pepper, spices; laundry detergent; vanilla or other extracts; low sugar dried/canned fruits; cooking oil; honey; nuts. Thank you for your generous support!

Epiphany Service of Light, Friday, January 6, 5:30pm: Join us as we share the story of the Wise Men who came to honor the infant Jesus, and of how the light of Christ has spread through time and space all the way to here and now! All are welcome. We’ll share a light dinner after the service; feel free to bring something to share. Talk to Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes if you’d like to be a reader for this service.

Epiphany Pageant, Sunday, January 15: The children of St. Dunstan’s will present a pageant telling the story of Jesus’ birth and the visit of the Wise Men on Sunday, January 15. There will be a rehearsal after church on Sunday the 8th.  All kids are welcome to participate!

Call for Annual Report Submissions: Every year in December/January, we invite our ministry leaders to submit a paragraph or two about what their ministry is and what they’ve done in the past year, and compile those reports into an Annual Report, shared with the congregation in advance of our parish Annual Meeting (9am on Sunday, January 22). This year we thought we’d cast the net more widely. If you have something you’d like to share, as a special moment, thanksgiving, or success to share, whether from a particular ministry or just something from the life of this household of faith, you’re welcome to submit it to . The deadline for all Annual Report materials is Friday, January 13.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for January 2017! Consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee  for more information.

THIS WEEK…

Jesus’ Grandmothers – Ruth: In this Advent season, each week we’re hearing from one of the women in Jesus’ lineage – named in Matthew 1:1-17. Matthew names three surprising women in that genealogy – Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth. This week we will hear from Ruth, whose story is found in the book that bears her name.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, December 18: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks, will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Caroling, 2 – 4:30pm, Sunday, December 18: If you know some familiar carols and have a warm heart, please come! We will meet at the church to warm up and share directions, then visit and sing for several members who live near the church, but aren’t always able to attend due to illness or mobility challenges. We also plan a second caroling expedition at 2pm on Friday, December 23rd; talk with Rev. Miranda for details.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, December 18, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, December 18, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney Way. Friends and partners welcome too.

It costs about $370 to send an elementary-school aged child to school for a year in Jeannette, Haiti. Our elementary Sunday school students would like to raise funds to send at least one child in Jeannette to school next year. You can support the kids’ mission by buying chocolates (suggested donation $4 apiece) or just making a donation. If you donate $25 or more, you may take a Haiti Christmas card for someone on your list who’d appreciate a donation made in their honor. You can give by cash or check in the basket in the Gathering Area, or by making an Outreach donation at donate.stdunstans.com, with a note that says “Haiti” in the comment box on the final screen when you are checking out.

Christmas Flowers: Celebrate what’s important to you with a gift that helps us decorate for Christmas and honors a loved one or a special event. Please see the red Christmas Flowers sign-up sheet in the Gathering Area. Write “Christmas Flowers” on the memo line of your check or on the envelope containing cash. Suggested donation is $25.

Christmas Service Helpers Needed! If you would like to be a part of the Christmas services, we need greeters, ushers and refreshments for each of the three services. Please see the sign-up sheet in the Gathering Area or contact Pamela at .

Vestry nominations are open! Would you be interested in serving on our vestry, our church’s governing body? Is there someone else you think would be a great candidate? Job descriptions and a box for nominations are in the Gathering Area. Open nominations will run throughout December.  We will be electing two new vestry members in January 2017. Wardens and Diocesan Convention deputies must be elected every year, so candidates for Junior and Senior Warden may also be nominated.

NEXT WEEKEND & BEYOND…

The Longest Night: A Liturgy of Light in Darkness, Thursday, December 22, 6:30pm (dinner at 5:30pm): On December 22th, we will gather together out of the darkness of the season for a quiet, meditative worship service. Feel free to invite friends who might appreciate this time set apart to name the darkness in the world and in our lives, and prepare our hearts for the coming of the light of Christ. Contact Rev. Miranda with any questions.

Call for Annual Report Submissions: Every year in December/January, we invite our ministry leaders to submit a paragraph or two about what their ministry is and what they’ve done in the past year, and compile those reports into an Annual Report, shared with the congregation in advance of our parish Annual Meeting (9am on Sunday, January 22). This year we thought we’d cast the net more widely. If you have something you’d like to share, as a special moment, thanksgiving, or success to share, whether from a particular ministry or just something from the life of this household of faith, you’re welcome to submit it to . The deadline for all Annual Report materials is Friday, January 13.

Looking for Coffee Hosts for January 2017! Consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee for more information.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services:

Family Service with Pageant, Saturday, December 24, 3pm

Festal Eucharist, Saturday, December 24, 9pm

Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, 10am (NO 8am service!)

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE NOTES…

The Parish Office will be closed on Friday, December 23 and will reopen on Monday, January 2nd.

Youth Group will NOT meet on December 23 or 30.

Sandbox Worship will NOT meet on December 29.