All posts by office

Announcements, July 7

SUNDAY, JULY 10…

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, July 10, 10am: We rejoice to celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Schuylar. We join parents Rachel and Dave and big sister Kenley in celebrating this day!

Between Church, Sunday, July 10, 9:15am: Come try out simple outdoor worship between our two regular services. We gather at the stone altar to sing one or two simple songs, listen to the day, and share some brief reflections on spiritual practice in daily life. We will also meet July 17, 24, and 31. Between Church can be an enrichment to one of our regular Sunday services at 8 and 10am, or you can just come for Between Church.

Give it a Try July: Would you like to try doing a reading at church? Or serving as an acolyte, or maybe help clean up after the Eucharist? For the month of July, instead of a set schedule of helpers for our liturgy, we’ll put out a set of cards every Sunday with the name of a role – Acolyte, Reader, Usher, Altar Guild Helper – and a short explanation of what you need to know. The intention is both to allow our regular helpers to serve when they’re available, in a month that’s often hard to schedule due to summer travel, AND to allow curious folk to try out a new role and see what’s involved. If you’d like to try something out, try to arrive ten minutes early to grab a card and read over what’s involved.

Summer Thursday Evening Eucharist and Supper, 5:30-7pm: Got weekend plans? Come to church Thursday evening for an informal Eucharist (outdoors, if weather permits!) and simple meal. Starting June 16, our Thursday evening Sandbox Worship will include an informal Eucharist every week. We also plan to worship outdoors as much as possible. All ages very welcome; dinner provided. If you have special dietary needs, let Rev. Miranda know, and if you like to cook you can sign up to contribute to a meal sometime.

SUMMER STUDY – TOBIT: A TALE OF TWO FAMILIES…

Creating Sets: Illustrating the Book of Tobit Art Workshop with Artist James Bellucci, Friday, July 29, and Saturday, July 30, 2 – 4pm:  James Bellucci is an artist and art educator who works by creating dioramas from two- and three-dimensional objects, then photographing them. Adults and older kids (10 and up) of St. Dunstan’s are invited to work with James to create a diorama based on the Biblical book of Tobit, the same book we are working with in our Evening Bible & Arts Camp for kids. Please sign up in the Gathering Area or by contacting Rev. Miranda.  We can only accommodate 15 people. Participants should be able to attend both sessions. Check out James’s work at http://www.jamesbellucci.com .

Bible Study – Tobit: A Tale of Two Families, Wednesday, July 20, 6:30 – 8pm: The book of Tobit is a little-known, but well worth knowing, book from the part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. It’s a rollicking adventure tale about God’s grace at work in ordinary lives, with some surprising depths in its themes. This gathering is an opportunity for the adults of our parish to study the same story that will be the focus of our kids’ Evening Bible & Arts Camp this summer. Thomas McAlpine, an Old Testament scholar, will guide our conversation. Light dessert will be served. All are welcome! Please read the Book of Tobit before coming – it takes less than an hour. You can find it in some Bibles, or online here (use the link at the bottom of the page to advance chapters): http://bible.oremus.org/?ql=334746665

The Book of Tobit: A Boy Went on a Journey Evening Bible & Arts Camp, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 31 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area and on our website! Help spread the word!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Neighborhood Exploration, July 12 – 17: Rev. Miranda plans to spend this week doing some intentional noticing of the neighborhoods around St. Dunstan’s. Would you like to join her? The goal of this Neighborhood Exploration is not to develop a program or recruit new members. We’re open to both of those possibilities, but that’s not our current focus. Think of this as the kind of exploration you might do when you’re staying in a new city for a few days. Posted in the Gathering Area there is a list of possible things you could do – particular streets to walk, parks to visit, etc. – and tips for noticing and reflecting. Jot down some notes, and send them to Rev. Miranda , and/or meet at 11:30 on Sunday, July 17, to discuss in person. Read more & sign up in the Gathering Area if you’d like to participate!

Gathering for the GLBTQ Folk of St. Dunstan’s, Wednesday, July 13, 6pm: Those identifying as GLBTQ in the St. Dunstan’s community are invited to a low-key dinner gathering at the church on Wednesday, July 13 at 6:00 pm. A light dinner of soup and bread will be provided (vegan-friendly with an omnivore option). Bring a dessert if you can, but please come regardless. Please feel free to bring partners and friends. While allies are always welcome at St. Dunstan’s, this particular gathering is intended for people who personally identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Rev. Miranda.

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, July 13, 7:15 – 9:00pm: What is a Julian Gathering?  A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times.  We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality.  Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease.   We meet at St. Dunstan’s on the second Wednesday of each month from 7:15 to 9 PM.

Charles Rishel’s 90th Birthday Party, Sunday, July 17, 1pm: Everyone is invited to get together for Charles Rishel’s 90th birthday party on July 17th at Badger Prairie Park in Verona. Invites and directions are in the Gathering Area. All are welcome as St Dunstans is part of his extended family.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, July 17: 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, July 17, 6pm: Join us for simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Younger Adults Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, July 17, 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.

Last Sunday Worship Service, Sunday, July 24, 10am: Our Last Sunday worship is intended especially to help kids (and grownups who are new to our pattern of worship) to engage and participate fully. This Sunday our theme is God-in-creation. NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Announcements, June 30

THIS WEEKEND & THE WEEK AHEAD…

Give it a Try July: Would you like to try doing a reading at church? Or serving as an acolyte, or maybe help clean up after the Eucharist? For the month of July, instead of a set schedule of helpers for our liturgy, we’ll put out a set of cards every Sunday with the name of a role – Acolyte, Reader, Usher, Altar Guild Helper – and a short explanation of what you need to know. The intention is both to allow our regular helpers to serve when they’re available, in a month that’s often hard to schedule due to summer travel, AND to allow curious folk to try out a new role and see what’s involved. If you’d like to try something out, try to arrive ten minutes early to grab a card and read over what’s involved.

Summer Choir on First Sundays, this Sunday, July 3: Come at 9am to learn some simple music to share as part of our 10am worship. Young singers and adult singers with no previous choir experience are especially invited! You should be able to read text, and be ready to begin to learn to read music. Talk with our Organist & Choir Director, Martin Ganschow, to learn more. More summer choir on August 7 and September 4.

Healing Prayers: This Sunday, July 3, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored Sunday, July 3, as is our custom on the first Sunday of every month. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, July 3: This Sunday, Half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. There are the current top-ten, most needed items: rice or pasta, spaghetti sauce, canned ravioli/spaghettios, cake or brownie mixes, flour, sugar, cooking oil, canned peaches, trail mixes and dried fruit snacks, 64 oz. beverages, dried beans (black, garbanzo, etc.), and baby wipes. MOM is also in need of paper grocery bags. Thanks for all your support!

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, July 3, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

The Parish Office will be closed on Monday, July 4, but will be open on Tuesday, July 5.

Wednesday Book Group, July 6, 9:30am: The Wednesday morning book group has chosen The Butterfly Mosque as the next book for reading and discussion. All are welcome to join the discussion for this book or the next. The group meets for about an hour and a half, beginning at 9:30 am. To order a book or for any other questions, please contact Valerie McAuliffe. Hope to see you there!

Diocesan Opportunities to Serve:  If you are interested in having a greater role in the Diocese, there are several positions becoming available. Open nominations are happening from now until August 8, 2016. To learn more about the positions, talk with Rev. Miranda and/or see the information sheets posted under the bulletin board calendar.

Take Out Church: If you haven’t yet picked up a “Take Out Church” box, please do! It’s full of ways to practice and explore your faith over the summer. Take Out Church is for all ages. One box per household; if you need extra coloring pages, ask Rev. Miranda. Take Out church is a gift to you, but if you wish you may make a $3 donation to help cover material costs.

Summer Thursday Evening Eucharist and Supper, 5:30-7pm: Got weekend plans? Come to church Thursday evening for an information Eucharist (outdoors, if weather permits!) and simple meal. Starting June 16, our Thursday evening Sandbox Worship will include an informal Eucharist every week. We also plan to worship outdoors as much as possible. All ages very welcome; dinner provided. If you like to cook you can sign up to contribute to a meal sometime.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, July 10, 10am: We rejoice to celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Schuylar. We join parents Rachel and Dave and big sister Kenley in celebrating this day!

Between Church, Sunday, July 10, 9:15am: Come try out simple outdoor worship between our two regular services. We gather at the stone altar to sing one or two simple songs, listen to the day, and share some brief reflections on spiritual practice in daily life. We will also meet July 17, 24, and 31. Between Church can be an enrichment to one of our regular Sunday services at 8 and 10am, or you can just come for Between Church.

Neighborhood Exploration, July 12 – 17: Rev. Miranda plans to spend this week doing some intentional noticing of the neighborhoods around St. Dunstan’s. Would you like to join her? The goal of this Neighborhood Exploration is not to develop a program or recruit new members. We’re open to both of those possibilities, but that’s not our current focus. Think of this as the kind of exploration you might do when you’re staying in a new city for a few days. Posted in the Gathering Area there is a list of possible things you could do – particular streets to walk, parks to visit, etc. – and tips for noticing and reflecting. Jot down some notes, and send them to Rev. Miranda, and/or meet at 11:30 on Sunday, July 17, to discuss in person. Read more & sign up in the Gathering Area if you’d like to participate!

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, July 13, 7:15 – 9:00pm: What is a Julian Gathering?  A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times.  We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality.  These gatherings are initiated and supported by the Order of Julian of Norwich (www.orderofjulian.org) and have the quintessentially Anglican writings of St. Julian of Norwich at their core.  They are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing.  Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease.   We meet the second Wednesday of each month from 7:15pm to 9pm.

Last Sunday Worship Service, Sunday, July 24, 10am: Our Last Sunday worship is intended especially to help kids (and grownups who are new to our pattern of worship) to engage and participate fully. This Sunday our theme is God-in-creation. NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. For more information, contact Janet Bybee. Thanks!

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Evening Bible & Arts Camp, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

Announcements, June 23

THIS WEEKEND & THE WEEK AHEAD…

Rev. Miranda’s Vacation: Rev. Miranda will be on vacation from June 25 through July 2. Father John Rasmus will preach and celebrate the Eucharist on Sunday, June 26. Father John will be available if anyone urgently needs to speak with a priest during Rev. Miranda’s absence.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, June 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 gathering area to help out. To learn more, talk with Rose Mueller at (608) 836-1028.

Diocesan Opportunities to Serve:  If you are interested in having a greater role in the Diocese, there are several positions becoming available. Open nominations are happening from now until August 8, 2016. To learn more about the positions, talk with Rev. Miranda and/or see the information sheets posted under the bulletin board calendar.

Take Out Church: If you haven’t yet picked up a “Take Out Church” box, please do! It’s full of ways to practice and explore your faith over the summer. Take Out Church is for all ages. One box per household; if you need extra coloring pages, ask Rev. Miranda. Take Out church is a gift to you, but if you wish you may make a $3 donation to help cover material costs.

Summer Thursday Evening Eucharist and Supper, 5:30-7pm: Got weekend plans? Come to church Thursday evening for an information Eucharist (outdoors, if weather permits!) and simple meal. Starting June 16, our Thursday evening Sandbox Worship will include an informal Eucharist every week. We also plan to worship outdoors as much as possible. All ages very welcome; dinner provided. If you have special dietary needs, let Rev. Miranda know and if you like to cook you can sign up to contribute to a meal sometime.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, June 24, 6:30pm: Join our monthly get-together as we dine at area restaurants and enjoy good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. This month we will meet at Los Gemelos at 6713 Odana Road in Madison.

Neighborhood Exploration, July 12 – 17: Rev. Miranda plans to spend this week doing some intentional noticing of the neighborhoods around St. Dunstan’s. Would you like to join her? The goal of this Neighborhood Exploration is not to develop a program or recruit new members. We’re open to both of those possibilities, but that’s not our current focus. Think of this as the kind of exploration you might do when you’re staying in a new city for a few days. Posted in the Gathering Area there is a list of possible things you could do – particular streets to walk, parks to visit, etc. – and tips for noticing and reflecting. Jot down some notes, and send them to Rev. Miranda via email, and/or meet at 11:30 on Sunday, July 17, to discuss in person. Read more & sign up in the Gathering Area if you’d like to participate!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Give it a Try July: Would you like to try doing a reading at church? Or serving as an acolyte, or maybe help clean up after the Eucharist? For the month of July, instead of a set schedule of helpers for our liturgy, we’ll put out a set of cards every Sunday with the name of a role – Acolyte, Reader, Usher, Altar Guild Helper – and a short explanation of what you need to know. The intention is both to allow our regular helpers to serve when they’re available, in a month that’s often hard to schedule due to summer travel, AND to allow curious folk to try out a new role and see what’s involved. If you’d like to try something out, try to arrive ten minutes early to grab a card and read over what’s involved.

Summer Choir on First Sundays, next Sunday, July 3: Come at 9am to learn some simple music to share as part of our 10am worship. Young singers and adult singers with no previous choir experience are especially invited! You should be able to read text, and be ready to begin to learn to read music. Talk with our Organist & Choir Director, Martin Ganschow, to learn more. More summer choir on August 7 and September 4.

Healing Prayers: Next Sunday, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored next Sunday, July 3, as is our custom on the first Sunday of every month. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, July 3: Next Sunday, Half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. There are the current top-ten, most needed items: rice or pasta, spaghetti sauce, canned ravioli/spaghettios, cake or brownie mixes, flour, sugar, cooking oil, canned peaches, trail mixes and dried fruit snacks, 64 oz. beverages, dried beans (black, garbanzo, etc.), and baby wipes. MOM is also in need of paper grocery bags. Thanks for all your support!

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, July 10, 10am: We rejoice to celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Schuylar. We join parents Rachel and Dave and big sister Kenley in celebrating this day!

Between Church, Sunday, July 10, 9:15am: Come try out simple outdoor worship between our two regular services. We gather at the stone altar to sing one or two simple songs, listen to the day, and share some brief reflections on spiritual practice in daily life. We will also meet July 17, 24, and 31. Between Church can be an enrichment to one of our regular Sunday services at 8 and 10am, or you can just come for Between Church.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. For more information, contact Janet Bybee.  Thanks!

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Evening Bible & Arts Camp, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

 

 

Announcements, June 16

SUNDAY, JUNE 19…

All Ages Worship, 10am: Our Last Sunday worship will be celebrated a week early this month due to Rev. Miranda’s vacation. We’ll explore the Prophet Elijah and his relationship with King Ahab. This service 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.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund offering: 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, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Younger Adult Meetup at the Vintage, 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.

Take Out Church: Summer means many of our households head out for various adventures and expeditions. When you can’t be here, take church with you! Our Take Out Church boxes contain several ways to practice your faith when you’re not at church, including a “Flat Dunstan” (take a picture of him at the places you visit, and we’ll post it at Church!), meditative coloring pages, and a Christian Practices punch card. Take Out Church is for all ages. One box per household; if you need extra coloring pages, ask Rev. Miranda. Take Out church is a gift to you, but if you wish you may make a $3 donation to help cover material costs.

Summer Thursday Evening Eucharist and Supper, 5:30-7pm: Got weekend plans? Come to church Thursday evening for an information Eucharist (outdoors, if weather permits!) and simple meal. Starting June 16, our Thursday evening Sandbox Worship will include an informal Eucharist every week. We also plan to worship outdoors as much as possible. All ages very welcome; dinner provided. If you like to cook you can sign up to contribute to a meal sometime.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Give it a Try July: Would you like to try doing a reading at church? Or serving as an acolyte, or maybe help clean up after the Eucharist? For the month of July, instead of a set schedule of helpers for our liturgy, we’ll put out a set of cards every Sunday with the name of a role – Acolyte, Reader, Usher, Altar Guild Helper – and a short explanation of what you need to know. The intention is both to allow our regular helpers to serve when they’re available, in a month that’s often hard to schedule due to summer travel, AND to allow curious folk to try out a new role and see what’s involved. If you’d like to try something out, try to arrive ten minutes early to grab a card and read over what’s involved.

Between Church, Sunday, July 10, 9:15am: Come try out simple outdoor worship between our two regular services. We gather at the stone altar to sing one or two simple songs, listen to the day, and share some brief reflections on spiritual practice in daily life. We will also meet July 17, 24, and 31. Between Church can be an enrichment to one of our regular Sunday services at 8 and 10am, or you can just come for Between Church.

Greeters for First and Third Sundays Needed! If you enjoy making people feel welcome and at home, please consider becoming a Sunday greeter. For more information, contact Bernice Mason.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. For more information, contact Janet Bybee. Thanks!

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Vacation Bible & Arts School, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

In the Community…

Free Movie Night at the Madison Public Library with discussion, Thursday, June 30, 6-8:30pm: “Voices of Witness: Out of the Box” is a groundbreaking documentary giving voice to the witness of transgender people of faith. Courageously inviting the viewer into their journey, the film is ultimately a celebration of hope and the power of God’s love to transcend even seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This film features many Episcopalians, including Bishop Gene Robinson. For more information, call (608) 438-9536.

 

 

Announcements, June 2

THIS WEEKEND…

Guest Preacher Jonathan Melton, Sunday, June 5: Father Jonathan, friend of St. Dunstan’s and chaplain at the St. Francis House campus ministry at UW-Madison, will preach and celebrate on Sunday, June 5. His presence is a gift to Rev. Miranda, who can take her time away more fully without having to prepare a sermon. We welcome Father Jonathan and his words!

Summer Choir on First Sundays, Beginning June 5: Come at 9am to learn some simple music to share as part of our 10am worship. Young singers and adult singers with no previous choir experience are especially invited! You should be able to read text, and ready to begin to learn to read music. Talk with our Organist & Choir Director Martin Ganschow to learn more. Dates are June 5, July 3, August 7 and September 4.

Healing Democracy, One Heart at a Time, Sunday, June 5, 9am: We will explore techniques for creating safe spaces in which to talk honestly and reconnect as human beings across our differences. All are welcome!

An Introduction to Charitable Giving, Sunday, June 5, 11:30am: Come for lunch and an introduction to charitable giving and taxes, including an introduction to our church policies on major gifts. Folks of all ages and incomes are encouraged to come; child care will be provided.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored this Sunday, June 5, as is our custom on the first Sunday of every month. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

Healing Prayers: This Sunday, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, June 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: rice or pasta, cake or brownie mixes, cooking oil, size 5 & 6 diapers, spices, honey or syrup, laundry detergent, canned ravioli/spaghettios, ketchup, oats or oatmeal. Thank you for all your support!

Readers Needed for Dramatic Reading, Sunday, June 12: We will share a portion of “The Man Born to be King,” by Dorothy Sayers. This is a dramatic reading, without costume or staging, and we plan to do it at both the 8am and 10am services. A signup sheet will be circulated on Sunday the 29th or you can also contact Rev. Miranda.

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

Greeters for First and Third Sundays Needed! If you enjoy making people feel welcome and at home, please consider becoming a Sunday greeter. For more information, contact Bernice Mason.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. For more information, contact Janet Bybee. Thanks!

Seeking Open Minds and Warm Hearts to Help with our Sunday School! We seek teachers and helpers for our Sunday school classes for the 2016-17 program year, starting in September. Teachers and helpers generally serve once a month. Because of our growing group of kids, we would like to expand to THREE Sunday school classes for next year – for kids ages 3 – 5, 6 – 8, and 9 – 10. We use great curricula that give teachers good tools and information. If you’ve never done this before, there’s plenty of support, and if you’ve taught somewhere else, we’d love to benefit from your ideas and experience! Sign up in the Gathering Area or talk with Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes to learn more and get involved.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Parish Picnic, Sunday, June 12, 11:30 – 1pm: Come for good food and good conversation at our annual June parish picnic. We’ll have food and fun activities for all ages, including a balloon artist and photo booth! The picnic will happen rain or shine. Mark your calendar and watch for more details!

Funeral Liturgy for the Rev. Dr. Sybil Robison, Sunday, June 12, 4pm: Sybil’s life and ministry will be honored with a service at St. Dunstan’s Church. Bishop Steven Miller will preside, to honor Sybil’s vocation as a deacon. If you would like to help with the reception and/or bring food, please contact Connie Ott.

Musical Test Kitchen & BatWatch, Thursday evening, June 16, 7pm – 9pm: A Musical Test Kitchen is an opportunity to try out some paperless songs, either as a leader or a singer. If you’ve enjoyed some of our “paperless” songs at St. Dunstan’s or are curious to learn more about what we mean by “paperless” music, come along and join the singing!  As twilight falls we’ll move outside for our early summer BatWatch, to count the bats emerging from our local bat residence, a useful measure of the health of the colony. We’ll have a fire & S’mores. All ages welcome; feel free to come when you can & leave when you need to.

The Madison-Area Julian Gathering will not meet in June due to conflicting dates with JulianFest. Our next Gathering will be Wednesday, July 13, 7:15 – 9:00.

SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES…

Find us on Facebook! St. Dunstan’s has two primary Facebook locations. Our “St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church” page is our official Facebook presence. Upcoming events, sermons, and such are posted there by church staff. “Like” that page to get those updates in your Facebook feed. Our “St. Dunstan’s MadCity” group is a more informal place where members can post all sorts of things, like “Can someone lector for me this Sunday?” or “Can somebody use this old stroller?” or “I have a spare concert ticket, would someone like to come with me?” or “Hey, read this article; think we could do something like this?” and so on. Both can be great ways to keep up with the life of the parish while you’re traveling over the summer. So if you’re a Facebook user, look us up!

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Vacation Bible & Arts School, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

Announcements, May 26

THIS WEEKEND…

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, May 29, 10am: We rejoice to celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Nicholas. Nicholas and his parents, John and Christina, are new members of St. Dunstan’s and worship regularly at our 8am service.

Middle School Lunch & Learn, Sunday, May 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 kids if that helps the parents’ schedules.

Memorial Service for Jerry Bever, Sunday, May 29, 3pm:  We will gather to remember and celebrate the life of longtime member Jerry Bever, who died in February. Contributions to a light reception after the service are welcome.

Greeters for First Sundays Needed! If you enjoy making people feel welcome and at home, please consider becoming a Sunday greeter.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. Thanks!

Seeking Open Minds and Warm Hearts to Help with our Sunday School! We seek teachers and helpers for our Sunday school classes for the 2016-17 program year, starting in September. Teachers and helpers generally serve once a month. Because of our growing group of kids, we would like to expand to THREE Sunday school classes for next year – for kids ages 3 – 5, 6 – 8, and 9 – 10. We use great curricula that give teachers good tools and information. If you’ve never done this before, there’s plenty of support, and if you’ve taught somewhere else, we’d love to benefit from your ideas and experience! Sign up in the Gathering Area or talk with Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes to learn more and get involved.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Monday Morning Art Group: Each Monday morning from 9:30 to 11:30 an adult group meets in the chapel meeting room to share their creative arts and crafts projects, which might include drawing and painting to needlework. It’s become a wonderful time to share some of our personal history, or more recent experiences and/or challenges. Feel free to come along and join us! Because of improper ventilation for toxic materials, we ask that no paint solvents or smelly glues be required during this period.

Rev. Miranda’s Upcoming Absences: Rev. Miranda is traveling for some continuing education opportunities in late May and into early June. While she’ll be here on Sundays as usual, she’d like the parish to know that she will largely be away from her email and ongoing projects from May 23 through June 7. Thanks for your understanding and support!

Guest Preacher Jonathan Melton, Sunday, June 5: Father Jonathan, friend of St. Dunstan’s and chaplain at the St. Francis House campus ministry at UW-Madison, will preach and celebrate on Sunday, June 5. His presence is a gift to Rev. Miranda, who can take her time away more fully without having to prepare a sermon. We welcome Father Jonathan and his words!

Summer Choir on First Sundays, Beginning June 5: Come at 9am to learn some simple music to share as part of our 10am worship. Young singers and adult singers with no previous choir experience are especially invited! You should be able to read text, and ready to begin to learn to read music. Talk with our Organist & Choir Director Martin Ganschow to learn more. Dates are June 5, July 3, August 7 and September 4.

Healing Democracy, One Heart at a Time, Sunday, June 5, 9am: We will explore techniques for creating safe spaces in which to talk honestly and reconnect as human beings across our differences. All are welcome!

An Introduction to Charitable Giving, Sunday, June 5, 11:30am (Rescheduled): Come for lunch and an introduction to charitable giving and taxes, including an introduction to our church policies on major gifts. Folks of all ages and incomes are encouraged to come; child care will be provided.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored next Sunday, June 5, as is our custom on the first Sunday of every month. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

Healing Prayers: Next Sunday, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, June 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: rice or pasta, cake or brownie mixes, cooking oil, size 5 & 6 diapers, spices, honey or syrup, laundry detergent, canned ravioli/spaghettios, ketchup, oats or oatmeal. Thank you for all your support!

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

Readers Needed for Dramatic Reading, Sunday, June 12: We will share a portion of “The Man Born to be King,” by Dorothy Sayers. This is a dramatic reading, without costume or staging, and we plan to do it at both the 8am and 10am services. A signup sheet will be circulated on Sunday the 29th. You can also contact Rev. Miranda.

Parish Picnic, Sunday, June 12, 12:00pm: Come for good food and good conversation at our annual June parish picnic. We’ll have food and fun activities for all ages, including a balloon artist and photo booth! The picnic will happen rain or shine. Mark your calendar and watch for more details!

Musical Test Kitchen & BatWatch, Thursday evening, June 16, 7pm – 9pm: A Musical Test Kitchen is an opportunity to try out some paperless songs, either as a leader or a singer. If you’ve enjoyed some of our “paperless” songs at St. Dunstan’s or are curious to learn more about what we mean by “paperless” music, come along and join the singing!  As twilight falls we’ll move outside for our early summer BatWatch, to count the bats emerging from our local bat residence, a useful measure of the health of the colony. We’ll have a fire & S’mores. All ages welcome; feel free to come when you can & leave when you need to.

The Madison-Area Julian Gathering will not meet in June due to conflicting dates with JulianFest. Our next Gathering will be Wednesday, July 13, 7:15 – 9:00.

SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES…

Find us on Facebook! St. Dunstan’s has two primary Facebook locations. Our “St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church” page is our official Facebook presence. Upcoming events, sermons, and such are posted there by church staff. “Like” that page to get those updates in your Facebook feed. Our “St. Dunstan’s MadCity” group is a more informal place where members can post all sorts of things, like “Can someone lector for me this Sunday?” or “Can somebody use this old stroller?” or “I have a spare concert ticket, would someone like to come with me?” or “Hey, read this article; think we could do something like this?” and so on. Both can be great ways to keep up with the life of the parish while you’re traveling over the summer. So if you’re a Facebook user, look us up!

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Vacation Bible & Arts School, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

Announcements, May 19

SUNDAY, MAY 22…

Healing Democracy, One Heart at a Time, 9am: We will explore techniques for creating safe spaces in which to talk honestly and reconnect as human beings across our differences. All are welcome!

St. Dunstan’s Day All-Ages Worship & Hat and Tie Sunday: Today, we are celebrating the feast day of our saint, Dunstan. You’re invited to mark the occasion by dressing up with a fancy hat and/or tie – wear your own or borrow one from the collection at church. We will formally welcome new members on this festive day. We will also take up a special collection for scholarships for the Diocese of Milwaukee’s camp program, Camp Webb. It’s our custom to take photos of the whole congregation after the 10am service that Sunday; we hope you’ll stay a few moments to participate.

Grace Shelter Dinner, 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.

Greeters for First Sundays Needed! If you enjoy making people feel welcome and at home, please consider becoming a Sunday greeter. For more information, contact Bernice Mason.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. For more information, contact Janet Bybee.

Seeking Open Minds and Warm Hearts to Help with our Sunday School! We seek teachers and helpers for our Sunday school classes for the 2016-17 program year, starting in September. Teachers and helpers generally serve once a month. Because of our growing group of kids, we would like to expand to THREE Sunday school classes for next year – for kids ages 3 – 5, 6 – 8, and 9 – 10. We use great curricula that give teachers good tools and information. If you’ve never done this before, there’s plenty of support, and if you’ve taught somewhere else, we’d love to benefit from your ideas and experience! Sign up in the Gathering Area or talk with Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes to learn more and get involved.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Monday Morning Art Group: Each Monday morning from 9:30 to 11:30 an adult group meets in the chapel meeting room to share their creative arts and crafts projects, which might include drawing and painting to needlework. It’s become a wonderful time to share some of our personal history, or more recent experiences and/or challenges. Feel free to come along and join us! Because of improper ventilation for toxic materials, we ask that no paint solvents or smelly glues be required during this period.

Rev. Miranda’s Upcoming Absences: Rev. Miranda is traveling for some continuing education opportunities in late May and into early June. While she’ll be here on Sundays as usual, she’d like the parish to know that she will largely be away from her email and ongoing projects from May 23 through June 7. Thanks for your understanding and support!

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, May 29, 10am: We rejoice to celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Nicholas. Nicholas and his parents, John and Christina, are new members of St. Dunstan’s and worship regularly at our 8am service.

Middle School Lunch & Learn, Sunday, May 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 kids if that helps the parents’ schedules.

Memorial Service for Jerry Bever, Sunday, May 29, 3pm:  We will gather to remember and celebrate the life of longtime member Jerry Bever, who died in February. Contributions to a light reception after the service are welcome.

Guest Preacher Jonathan Melton, Sunday, June 5: Father Jonathan, friend of St. Dunstan’s and chaplain at the St. Francis House campus ministry at UW-Madison, will preach and celebrate on Sunday, June 5. His presence is a gift to Rev. Miranda, who can take her time away more fully without having to prepare a sermon. We welcome Father Jonathan and his words!

Summer Choir on First Sundays, Beginning June 5: Come at 9am to learn some simple music to share as part of our 10am worship. Young singers and adult singers with no previous choir experience are especially invited! You should be able to read text, and ready to begin to learn to read music. Talk with our Organist & Choir Director Martin Ganschow to learn more. Dates are June 5, July 3, August 7 and September 4.

An Introduction to Charitable Giving, Sunday, June 5, 11:30am (Rescheduled): Come for lunch and an introduction to charitable giving and taxes, including an introduction to our church policies on major gifts. Folks of all ages and incomes are encouraged to come; child care will be provided.

Parish Picnic, Sunday, June 12, 12:00pm: Come for good food and good conversation at our annual June parish picnic. We’ll have food and fun activities for all ages, including a balloon artist and photo booth! The picnic will happen rain or shine. Mark your calendar and watch for more details!

The Madison-Area Julian Gathering will not meet in June due to conflicting dates with JulianFest. Our next Gathering will be Wednesday, July 13, 7:15 – 9:00 at St. Dunstan’s.

SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES…

Find us on Facebook! St. Dunstan’s has two primary Facebook locations. Our “St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church” page is our official Facebook presence. Upcoming events, sermons, and such are posted there by church staff. “Like” that page to get those updates in your Facebook feed. Our “St. Dunstan’s MadCity” group is a more informal place where members can post all sorts of things, like “Can someone lector for me this Sunday?” or “Can somebody use this old stroller?” or “I have a spare concert ticket, would someone like to come with me?” or “Hey, read this article; think we could do something like this?” and so on. Both can be great ways to keep up with the life of the parish while you’re traveling over the summer. So if you’re a Facebook user, look us up!

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Vacation Bible & Arts School, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

Announcements, May 12

Find us on Facebook! St. Dunstan’s has two primary Facebook locations. Our “St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church” page is our official Facebook presence. Upcoming events, sermons, and such are posted there by church staff. “Like” that page to get those updates in your Facebook feed. Our “St. Dunstan’s MadCity” group is a more informal place where members can post all sorts of things, like “Can someone lector for me this Sunday?” or “Can somebody use this old stroller?” or “I have a spare concert ticket, would someone like to come with me?” or “Hey, read this article; think we could do something like this?” and so on. Both of these locations will be more effective, the more people are on them. So if you’re a Facebook user, look us up!

THIS WEEKEND…

Fellowship Group Gathering, Friday, May 13, 1pm: Would you like to be part of a smaller group that meets regularly for friendship, mutual support, and shared Bible study? We will have an exploratory gathering on Friday, May 13, at 1pm at VIP Asian Cuisine on Odana Road. Join us if you can,

Pre-Clean-Up Day, Saturday, May 14, from 9am to noon (drop-in):  B&G members & friends will gather to do some prep work for the parish work day and some of the more skilled work needed on our grounds. Volunteers welcome!

Men’s Book Group, Saturday, May 14, 10am: The book is English Creek by Ivan Doig. Jack McCaskill accompanies his father on a horseback journey to count sheep onto mountain rangeland allotted by the national forest—a routine yearly duty that leads to the revelation of a long-kept family secret. Events develop over the course of the summer and end in a forest fire that brings the book, as well as the Catskill family’s struggle within itself, to a stunning climax.

 Pentecost Sunday Worship with Holy Baptism, May 15: On this feast day we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church, and celebrate the Spirit’s continued action among us. Red is the church’s color for this holy day; consider wearing something red for church! At 10am we will celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Mathias LaBonte. We welcome the LaBonte family as they celebrate this holy occasion among us!

Spring Clean-up Day, Sunday, May 15, 12-2pm: Join us after the 10 am service to put some “sweat equity” into tending our beautiful buildings and grounds. Wear or bring your scruffy clothes and work gloves. Lunch will be provided!

Sunday School, Sunday, May 15, 10am: This week both our 3-5 year old class and our 6 – 10 year old class will explore the story of Pentecost. We will also meet June 12 before taking a hiatus for the summer.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, May 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, May 15, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All welcome.

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, May 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 & partners welcome too.

Updates on the Military Personnel whom we keep in prayer: We pray weekly for daughters and sons, granddaughters and grandsons, nieces, nephews, and friends of our members, who are serving our country in the armed services.  If you have updates about one of these people to share (including photos, which we love!), or new names for our list, please send them to . Thanks!

Altar Flowers: May dates available! Honor a loved one or a special event with altar flowers. Reserve your special date by writing your dedication on the sign-up sheet. Suggested donation is $35. Write “flowers” on the memo line of your check or on envelope containing cash, or donate online at donate.stdunstans.com.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. Thanks!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Monday Morning Art Group: Each Monday morning from 9:30 to 11:30 an adult group meets in the chapel area to share their creative arts and crafts projects, which might include drawing and painting to needlework.  It’s become a wonderful time to share some of our personal history, or more recent experiences and/or challenges.  Feel free to come along and join us! Because of improper ventilation for toxic materials, we ask that no paint solvents or smelly glues be required during this period.

“Toxic Charity” Book Discussion, Wednesday, May 18, 6:30-8pm:  Veteran urban activist Robert Lupton reveals the shockingly toxic effects that modern charity has upon the very people meant to benefit from it. Toxic Charity provides proven new models for charitable groups who want to help—not sabotage—those whom they desire to serve.  Please join Diocese of Milwaukee Haiti Project Coordinator, Heidi Ropa, to reflect on how this book may inform the way our Diocese interacts with our partners in Haiti or in other settings where we serve to support those in need. Go to . The book can be found online if you wish to order it.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, May 20 (due to Memorial Day holiday), 6pm: Join our monthly get-together as we dine at area restaurants and enjoy good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. This month we will meet at Amber Indian Restaurant at 6913 University Avenue in Madison.

Rev. Miranda’s Upcoming Absences: Rev. Miranda is traveling for some continuing education opportunities in late May and into early June. While she’ll be here on Sundays as usual, she’d like the parish to know that she will largely be away from her email and ongoing projects from May 23 through June 7. Thanks for your understanding and support!

St. Dunstan’s Day All-Ages Worship & Hat and Tie Sunday, May 22: We will celebrate the feast day of our saint, Dunstan, on Sunday, May 22. You’re invited to mark the occasion by dressing up with a fancy hat and/or tie – wear your own or borrow one from the collection at church. We will formally welcome new members on this festive day. We will also take up a special collection for scholarships for the Diocese of Milwaukee’s camp program, Camp Webb. It’s our custom to take photos of the whole congregation after the 10am service that Sunday; we hope you’ll stay a few moments to participate.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, May 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.

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, May 29, 8am: We will celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Nicholas Outrakis.  We welcome the Outrakis family as they celebrate this holy occasion among us!

Middle School Lunch & Learn, Sunday, May 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 gig into faith, Scripture, life, and our questions about all three. We’ll wrap up by 1pm, and we can arrange rides home for kids if that helps the parents’ schedules.

Memorial Service for Jerry Bever, Sunday, May 29, 3pm:  We will gather to remember and celebrate the life of longtime member Jerry Bever, who died in February. Contributions to a light reception after the service are welcome.

Summer Choir on First Sundays, Beginning June 5: Come at 9am to learn some simple music to share as part of our 10am worship. Young singers and adult singers with no previous choir experience are especially invited! You should be able to read text, and ready to begin to learn to read music. Talk with our Organist & Choir Director Martin Ganschow to learn more. Dates are June 5, July 3, and August 7.

An Introduction to Charitable Giving, Sunday, June 5, 11:30am (Rescheduled): Come for lunch and an introduction to charitable giving and taxes, including an introduction to our church policies on major gifts. Folks of all ages and incomes are encouraged to come; child care will be provided.

Parish Picnic, Sunday, June 12, 12:00pm: Come for good food and good conversation at our annual June parish picnic. We’ll have good food and fun activities for all ages, including a balloon artist and photo booth! The picnic will happen rain or shine. Mark your calendar and watch for more details!

HELP WANTED…

Seeking Open Minds and Warm Hearts to Help with our Sunday School! We seek teachers and helpers for our Sunday school classes for the 2016-17 program year, starting in September. Teachers and helpers generally serve once a month. Because of our growing group of kids, we would like to expand to THREE Sunday school classes for next year – for kids ages 3 – 5, 6 – 8, and 9 – 10. We use great curricula that give teachers good tools and information. If you’ve never done this before, there’s plenty of support, and if you’ve taught somewhere else, we’d love to benefit from your ideas and experience! Sign up in the Gathering Area or talk with Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes to learn more and get involved.

SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES…

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Vacation Bible & Arts School, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

Announcements, May 5

TONIGHT…

Ascension Eucharist, Thursday, May 5, 5:30pm: Celebrate a festive service on the Feast of the Ascension, with our Thursday evening “Sandbox Worship” community. A simple meal will follow.

THIS WEEKEND…

Guest Preacher Fred-Allen Self, Sunday, May 8: Fred-Allen is a friend of St. Dunstan’s and a Progressive Christian Alliance Pastor. We welcome Fred-Allen and his words for us! Fred-Allen will preach at both services.

Sunday School, Sunday, May 8, 10am: This week, our 3-5 year old class will be learning about the Mystery of Pentecost, while our 6 -10 year old class will hear about the early church community in Acts.

Words in Season: Mothers – All Kinds, Sunday, May 8, 11am: Dear performance and poetry loving members of St. Dunstan’s, join us for a seasonal celebration of words and the spirit. Daniel Hanson and Evy Gildrie-Voyles invite you to bring a poem to share, loosely connected to our theme of Mothers – all kinds: good and bad, yours or somebody else’s, real or metaphorical. If your chosen poem is long, please consider reading a selected portion, to allow time for all to share. We will share our poems in the Nave after folks have had a chance to get a bite to eat at Coffee Hour. All ages are welcome to participate. No memorizing is necessary.

Spirituality and Parenting Lunch, Sunday, May 8, 11:45 – 1pm: Parents of every age and stage are welcome. We’ll read the Parable of the Sower together, then talk about voice and parenting. What are the voices ((both metaphorical and literal) that we use with our kids, as parents? What voices do we want to use? Food and child care are provided.

Kids in Song Gathering, Sunday, May 8, 11:45 – 12:15: Kids old enough to read are invited to come up to the choir loft to do some simple singing with our Choir Director Martin Ganschow. This is an opportunity to try out our voices together, and help Martin plan future musical work with the children of our parish. Grab some snacks at coffee hour, then come sing!

Lost & Found:  Please take a moment to look in the lost and found box and reclaim your items. There are many items including several hats and gloves, a knit scarf, a stuffed animal, a couple of umbrellas and a carry-all. Unclaimed items will be given away after May 8th.

Altar Flowers: April and May dates available! Honor a loved one or a special event with altar flowers. Reserve your special date by writing your dedication on the sign-up sheet. Suggested donation is $35. Write “flowers” on the memo line of your check or on envelope containing cash, or donate online at donate.stdunstans.com.

Coffee Hosts Needed! Please consider being a coffee host. Sign-up sheets for upcoming Sundays can be found in the Gathering Area. Thanks!

St. Dunstan’s Diaper Drive Ingathering: Today we will pray over the diapers and financial gifts presented as part of our Diaper Drive. While we don’t have totals ready yet, our response has been incredibly generous! The diapers are being donated to pantries around the area, including Allied Drive Food Pantry, Kennedy Heights, and MOM. Thanks for your support for this project and for families all over Dane County!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Julian Gathering, Wednesday, May 11, 7:15-9pm: What is a Julian Gathering?  A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times. We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality.  These gatherings are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing. Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease.

Fellowship Group Gathering, Friday, May 13, 1pm: Would you like to be part of a smaller group that meets regularly for friendship, mutual support, and shared Bible study? We will have an exploratory gathering on Friday, May 13, at 1pm at VIP Asian Cuisine on Odana Road. Join us if you can, or if you’re interested but can’t attend, talk to Rev. Miranda.

Men’s Book Group, Saturday, May 14, 10am: The book is English Creek by Ivan Doig. Jack McCaskill accompanies his father on a horseback journey to count sheep onto mountain rangeland allotted by the national forest—a routine yearly duty that leads to the revelation of a long-kept family secret. Events develop over the course of the summer and end in a forest fire that brings the book, as well as the Catskill family’s struggle within itself, to a stunning climax.

Pentecost Sunday, May 15:  We have the story of the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church, and celebrate the Spirit’s continued action among us. Red is the church’s color for this holy day; consider wearing something red for church!

Eucharist with Holy Baptism, Sunday, May 15, 10am:  We will celebrate the baptism of a new member of Christ’s Kingdom, Mathias LaBonte. Rev. Miranda had the joy of officiating at the wedding of Mathias’ parents several years ago. We welcome the LaBonte family as they celebrate this holy occasion among us!

Spring Clean-up Day, Sunday, May 15, 12-2pm: Join us after the 10 am service to put some “sweat equity” into tending our beautiful buildings and grounds. Wear or bring your scruffy clothes and work gloves. Lunch will be provided! A list of tasks will be posted in the Gathering Area by Sunday the 1st. We will also have a Pre-Clean-Up Day on Saturday, May 14, from 9am to noon, to do some prep work for the parish work day and some of the more skilled work needed on our grounds.

Sunday School, Sunday, May 15, 10am: Our Sunday school classes will meet next Sunday. We will also meet June 12 before taking a hiatus for the summer.

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

St. Dunstan’s Day All-Ages Worship & Hat and Tie Sunday, May 22: We will celebrate the feast day of our saint, Dunstan, on Sunday, May 22. You’re invited to mark the occasion by dressing up with a fancy hat and/or tie – wear your own or borrow one from the collection at church. We will formally welcome new members on this festive day. We will also take up a special collection for scholarships for the Diocese of Milwaukee’s camp program, Camp Webb. It’s our custom to take photos of the whole congregation after the 10am service that Sunday; we hope you’ll stay a few moments to participate.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, May 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.

Rev. Miranda’s Upcoming Absences: Rev. Miranda is traveling for some continuing education opportunities in late May and into early June. While she’ll be here on Sundays as usual, she’d like the parish to know that she will largely be away from her email and ongoing projects from May 23 through June 7. Thanks for your understanding and support!

Parish Picnic, Sunday, June 12, 12:00pm: Come for good food and good conversation at our annual June parish picnic. We’ll have good food and fun activities for all ages, including a balloon artist! The picnic will happen rain or shine. Mark your calendar and watch for more details!

HELP WANTED…

Seeking Open Minds and Warm Hearts to Help with our Sunday School! We seek teachers and helpers for our Sunday school classes for the 2016-17 program year, starting in September. Teachers and helpers generally serve once a month. Because of our growing group of kids, we would like to expand to THREE Sunday school classes for next year – for kids ages 3 – 5, 6 – 8, and 9 – 10. We use great curricula that give teachers good tools and information. If you’ve never done this before, there’s plenty of support, and if you’ve taught somewhere else, we’d love to benefit from your ideas and experience! Sign up in the Gathering Area or talk with Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes to learn more and get involved.

SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES…

The Thrilling Adventures of Tobias and Sarah! Vacation Bible & Arts School, 5:30 – 7:30pm, July 30 – August 4. We are designing our own VBS this year, focusing on the book of Tobit, a rousing story of faith, adventure, risk, romance, and mystery, from a part of the Bible known as the Apocrypha. Drama, art, and outreach will be integrated into our curriculum. Kids ages 3 to 10 are welcome to participate; need not be members of St. Dunstan’s. Registration forms will be available soon. We will also be inviting the adults of the parish into study and artistic engagement with the book of Tobit this summer; watch for more information!

40th Annual Women’s Mini Week – Surprised by Joy! – August 11 – 14, 2016, Camp Lakotah, Wautoma, Wisconsin: This is your time to retreat from your everyday routines, to allow discoveries and friendships to refresh you, to find comfortable activity or blissful quiet. Registration forms are in the Gathering Area. For more information, see the website at www.womensminisweek.org.

 

Announcements, April 28

SUNDAY, MAY 1…

Healing Democracy, One Heart at a Time, 9am: We will explore techniques for creating safe spaces in which to talk honestly and reconnect as human beings across our differences. All are welcome!

Healing Prayers: Today, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others.

Birthdays and anniversaries will be honored today, as is our custom on the first Sunday of every month. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

MOM Special Offering: 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: pouch/canned meat, sugar, size 6 diapers, meals in a can, ketchup/mayonnaise, canned potatoes (any variety), laundry detergent, non-perishable lactose free milk, plastic grocery bags, paper grocery bags. Thank you for all your support!

An Introduction to Charitable Giving, 11:30am: Come for lunch with several of the folk of St. Dunstan’s who have expertise in the areas of financial management, charitable giving, and taxes. They’ll outline the logistics of different ways of giving to your favorite organizations or causes, different kinds of gifts, and tax implications of giving. Questions welcome too! Folks of all ages and incomes are encouraged to come; child care is provided.

Backpack Snack Pack, Sunday, 12pm: Every month St. Dunstanites of all ages help pack Backpack Snack Packs for local school children from low-income households, so that they have nutritious snacks available over the weekend. We’ll work in the Meeting Room following the 10am service.

Evening Eucharist, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins.

Ascension Eucharist, Thursday, May 5, 5:30pm: Celebrate a festive service on the Feast of the Ascension, with our Thursday evening “Sandbox Worship” community. A simple meal will follow.

Lost & Found:  Please take a moment to look in the lost and found box and reclaim your items. There are many items including several hats and gloves, a knit scarf, a stuffed animal, a couple of umbrellas and a carry-all. Unclaimed items will be given away after May 8th.

Altar Flowers: April and May dates available! Honor a loved one or a special event with altar flowers. Reserve your special date by writing your dedication on the sign-up sheet. Suggested donation is $35. Write “flowers” on the memo line of your check or on envelope containing cash, or donate online at donate.stdunstans.com.

St. Dunstan’s Diaper Drive, April 17 – May 8: Imagine having to choose whether to pay rent, pay utilities, buy food, or buy diapers for your baby or toddler. Nearly 1 in 3 American families struggle to afford enough diapers, which cannot be purchased with food stamps. Learn more by reading today’s bulletin insert. We are having a diaper drive for sizes 4, 5, and 6 from April 17 until Mother’s Day, May 8. We will donate the diapers to pantries around the area, including Allied Drive Food Pantry, Kennedy Heights, and MOM (if needed). You can shop around for a great deal ($.20 or less per diaper) or make a check or online donation to St. Dunstan’s designated for the Diaper Drive and let our skilled diaper shoppers do the shopping! We’ll dedicate all our gifts on Mother’s Day. Thanks for your support!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Proclaiming Love in a Polarized World: An Open Meeting with the Bishop, Wednesday, May 4, St. Dunstan’s Church, 6:30 – 8:00pm: Our bishop Steven Miller will be making his annual visit to St. Dunstan’s next month. All members of St. Dunstan’s are invited to an open conversation, over tea and cookies, about how to be witnesses for a loving God in a time of so much polarization and division in our public life.

Guest Preacher Fred-Allen Self, Sunday, May 8: Fred-Allen is a friend of St. Dunstan’s and is a Progressive Christian Alliance Pastor. We welcome Fred-Allen and his words for us! Fred-Allen will preach at both services.

Healing Democracy, One Heart at a Time, Sunday, May 8, 9am: We will explore techniques for creating safe spaces in which to talk honestly and reconnect as human beings across our differences. All welcome!

Sunday School, Sunday, May 8, 10am: Next week, our 3-5 year old class will be learning about the Mystery of Pentecost, while our 6 – 10 year old class will hear about the early church community in Acts.

Words in Season: Mothers – All Kinds, Sunday, May 8, 11am: Dear performance and poetry loving members of St. Dunstan’s, join us for a seasonal celebration of words and the spirit. Daniel Hanson and Evy Gildrie-Voyles invite you to bring a poem to share, loosely connected to our theme of Mothers – all kinds: good and bad, yours or somebody else’s, real or metaphorical. If your chosen poem is long, please consider reading a selected portion, to allow time for all to share. We will share our poems in the Nave after folks have had a chance to get a bite to eat at Coffee Hour. All ages are welcome to participate. No memorizing is necessary.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, May 8, 12 noon: 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.

Julian Gathering, Wednesday, May 11, 7:15-9pm: What is a Julian Gathering?  They are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing. Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease.

Men’s Book Group, ANOTHER DATE CHANGE Saturday, May 14, 10am: The book is English Creek by Ivan Doig. A long-kept family secret leads to events that end in a forest fire and a stunning climax.

Spring Clean-up Day, Sunday, May 15, 12-2pm: Join us after the 10 am service to put some “sweat equity” into tending our beautiful buildings and grounds. Wear or bring your scruffy clothes and work gloves. Lunch will be provided! A list of tasks will be posted in the Gathering Area by Sunday the 1st. We will also have a Pre-Clean-Up Day on Saturday, May 14, from 9am to noon, to do some prep work for the parish work day and some of the more skilled work needed on our grounds.

St. Dunstan’s Day All-Ages Worship & Hat and Tie Sunday, May 22:  We will celebrate the feast day of our saint, Dunstan, on Sunday, May 22. You’re invited to mark the occasion by dressing up with a fancy hat and/or tie – wear your own or borrow one from the collection at church. We will formally welcome new members on this festive day. We will also take up a special collection for scholarships for the Diocese of Milwaukee’s camp program, Camp Webb. It’s our custom to take photos of the whole congregation after the 10am service that Sunday; we hope you’ll stay a few moments to participate.

Parish Picnic, Sunday, June 12, 12:00pm: Come for good food and good conversation at our annual June parish picnic.  We’ll have good food and fun activities for all ages, including a balloon artist! The picnic will happen rain or shine. Mark your calendar and watch for more details!