SUNDAY, FEB 14…

Stations of the Cross in Lent, every Thursday at 7:15pm and every Friday at noon: We will walk the Stations of the Cross together in our nave. You may also walk and pray the Stations on your own at any time the church is open; call 238-2781 to check before you come. Our Stations of the Cross booklet is based on Scripture and readings from Christian tradition.

Lenten Study Group – Growing a Rule of Life, 9am, & every Sunday in Lent: In this series, offered by the Society of St. John the Evangelist, an order of Episcopal monks, we focus on God as the Chief Gardener of our souls, and we seek out ways to grow into the fullness he desires. This series uses a tool from monastic spirituality called a ‘Rule of Life’ to explore and cultivate our relationships with God, Self, Others, and Creation. To participate, sign up at ssje.org/ssje/growrule/ to receive the daily email prompts, and come to the Meeting Room on Sundays at 9am for group discussion about our individual work. You’re also free to participate in this series as an individual, without attending the group gatherings.

Sunday School, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning the Parable of the Great Pearl, while our 7-11 year old class explores our lesson from Deuteronomy, and how God’s people hold our holy history in memory.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, 11:45am: All who seek meaning in the journey of parenthood (at any age or stage) are welcome to come for food and conversation. Child care & a simple meal provided.

Coffee Hosts needed March 27! Please consider being a coffee host to help us celebrate Easter on March 27th.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Making Crosses: A Creative Connection to God, Friday, February 19, or Saturday, February 20. This two-hour event is both a crafting session and retreat for theological reflection on the themes of Lent. We will make crosses out of found objects. All skill levels are heartily welcomed. The event will be offered twice: Friday, February 19, 1 – 3pm, for adults only; and Saturday, February 20, 9 – 11am, all ages welcome. (Children 7 and up may participate. Younger kids will have their own program in another room.)

Seeking Found Objects! Do you have some interesting bits and bobs that have no practical use, and yet you’re somehow reluctant to simply throw them away? Check your junk drawer, your workshop shelf, the dusty corner of your crafting area, and see what’s hiding there. Whether you plan to participate in “Making Crosses” or not, you’re invited to gather and contribute a few items to the found-object crosses that we will create. All items should be clean, safe to handle, and no bigger than a standard desktop stapler; other than that, it’s wide open. Please bring items to the labeled box in the Gathering Area by Friday, February 19.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, February 20, 10am: The book is “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption” by Bryan Stevenson. Stevenson, the visionary founder and executive director of the Montgomery-based Equal Justice Initiative, surely has done as much as any other living American to vindicate the innocent and temper justice with mercy for the guilty. With honorary degrees from Yale, Penn and Georgetown, Stevenson, now 54, has made his latest contribution to criminal justice in the form of this inspiring memoir.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, February 21: 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 21, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning about some of Jesus’ parables of growth. Our 7-11 year olds explore the covenant between God and Abraham.

Christian Formation meeting, Sunday, February 21, 12noon: Our Christian Formation Committee will meet to review and plan programs, especially for Easter and beyond. All interested folks are welcome to attend and participate.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 21, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins.

Younger Adults’ Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, February 21, 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.

Lenten Virtual Book Group Begins Feb. 21: Unapologetic, by Francis Spufford. Rev. Miranda invites members and friends to a “virtual book group” this Lent, beginning the third week in February. We’ll read along together during Lent and share reactions and reflections on a Facebook group. We may also plan one or more in-person book discussion sessions as well, if there is interest. If you’d like to participate, please sign up in the Gathering Area, so we can get an idea of how many books to order. Books will be ordered the week following Sunday, February 7. A $10 donation to defray the cost of the books is welcome, but not required. You can also check the libraries for the book or buy it for your e-reader.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, February 26, 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 Cocina Real at 2518 Allen Blvd. in Middleton.

Our kid-inclusive All-Ages Worship this month will be Sunday, February 28, at the 10am service. 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. NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Help feed the students! St Francis House Dinner, Sunday, February 28: St. Dunstan’s will provide dinner for the St. Francis House community in a few weeks. We are asked to provide food for up to 15 people, and we are invited to attend worship with the students at 5pm.  Vegan and gluten-free options are welcome (that’s easier than you think: a veggie stew over rice, bean chili …). Please sign up in the Gathering Area if you can help with the meal, or contact Rev. Miranda at .

THIS WEEKEND…

Game Night, Friday, February 5, 5:30 – 8:30pm: Join us for an evening of games for all ages. Friends, partners, kids all welcome. Bring a snack to share, or come as you are!

February begins the Season of Stewardship of Spirit and Space: The word “stewardship” reminds us that all we have is entrusted to us by God, to be a blessing to us, our communities, and the world. In 2011, our parish developed a framework for reflecting on stewardship throughout the year. February through May is the Season of Stewardship of Spirit and Space – a time to turn inward, in the cold of winter and the solemnity of Lent, to tend to our spirits and draw closer to God. And though spring seems distant, it’s also time to think about plans and plantings. We begin worship this Sunday with the Collect for this season.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored Sunday, February 7, 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, Sunday, February 7: 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, February 7: 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 top ten items needed at this time: cooking oil, canned soup (no tomato), meals in a can, canned meats (tuna/chicken/turkey/salmon), meals in a box (helpers, etc.), laundry detergent, sugar, toothbrushes/toothpaste, shampoo/conditioner, and Kleenex/facial tissue. Quality bedding items, such as comforters, sheets, blankets and towels are always needed too. Thank you for all your support!

Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, February 7, 12noon: The kids and families of St. Dunstan’s are invited to prepare Backpack Snack Packs, to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks available over the weekend. We’ll work in the Meeting Room at St. Dunstan’s following the 10am service.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 7, 6pm: A simple service before the week begins.

Survival Kits for Homeless Teens: We are stocking three backpacks with essentials for teenagers who are living on the streets. Thanks to all who have already helped out; please return all items by Sunday, February 7. Financial contributions are also welcome.

Do you love getting books into the hands of readers? Our St. Dunstan’s Little Free Library is seeking a new co-Librarian or two. The Library sits on the southeast corner of our property, and can be reached by car or on foot through our woods. The Library needs to be checked and restocked (every few weeks in winter, perhaps weekly in nice weather), and this task can easily be shared by a small team of helpers. Members and friends of St. Dunstan’s donate used books to put in our Library. Please talk to Rev. Miranda to get involved!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 9, 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. If you’d like to help or contribute, see the signup sheets in the Gathering Area.

Ash Wednesday services will be at noon, 4pm, and 7pm on Wednesday, February 10. The 4pm service is especially intended for kids and families.

Ashes To Go, Wednesday, February 10, 8 – 9am and 2 – 3pm: Our drop-in “Ashes To Go” station will be at Old Middleton Road & St Dunstan Drive, besides our signboard and Little Free Library. Pull over on St. Dunstan Drive or park across the street on Stonefield Rd. Imposition of ashes, prayer, and warm beverages will be available.

Lenten Study Group – Growing a Rule of Life, Sunday, February 14, 9am: In this series, offered by the Society of St. John the Evangelist, an order of Episcopal monks, we focus on God as the Chief Gardener of our souls, and we seek out ways to grow into the fullness he desires. This series uses a tool from monastic spirituality called a ‘Rule of Life’ to explore and cultivate our relationships with God, Self, Others, and Creation. To participate, sign up at ssje.org/ssje/growrule/ to receive the daily email prompts, and come to the Meeting Room on Sundays at 9am, starting February 14, for group discussion about our individual work. You’re also free to participate in this series as an individual, without attending the group gatherings.

Sunday School, Sunday, February 14, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning the Parable of the Great Pearl, while our 7-11 year old class explores our lesson from Deuteronomy, and how God’s people hold our holy history in memory.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, February 14, 11:45am: 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.

Making Crosses: A Creative Connection to God, Friday, February 19, or Saturday, February 20. This two-hour event is both a crafting session and retreat for theological reflection on the themes of Lent. We will make crosses out of found objects. All skill levels are heartily welcomed. The event will be offered twice: Friday, February 19, 1 – 3pm, for adults only; and Saturday, February 20, 9 – 11am, all ages welcome. (Children 7 and up may participate. Younger kids will have their own program in another room.)

Seeking Found Objects! Do you have some interesting bits and bobs that have no practical use, and yet you’re somehow reluctant to simply throw them away? Check your junk drawer, your workshop shelf, the dusty corner of your crafting area, and see what’s hiding there. Whether you plan to participate in “Making Crosses” or not, you’re invited to gather and contribute a few items to the found-object crosses that we will create. All items should be clean, safe to handle, and no bigger than a standard desktop stapler; other than that, it’s wide open. Please bring items to the labeled box in the Gathering Area by Friday, February 19.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, February 20, 10am: The book is “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption” by Bryan Stevenson. Stevenson, the visionary founder and executive director of the Montgomery-based Equal Justice Initiative, surely has done as much as any other living American to vindicate the innocent and temper justice with mercy for the guilty. With honorary degrees from Yale, Penn and Georgetown, Stevenson, now 54, has made his latest contribution to criminal justice in the form of this inspiring memoir.

Lenten Virtual Book Group Begins Feb. 22: Unapologetic, by Francis Spufford. Rev. Miranda invites members and friends to a “virtual book group” this Lent, beginning the third week in February. We’ll read along together during Lent and share reactions and reflections on a Facebook group. We may also plan one or more in-person book discussion sessions as well, if there is interest. If you’d like to participate, please sign up in the Gathering Area, so we can get an idea of how many books to order. Books will be ordered the week following Sunday, February 7. A $10 donation to defray the cost of the books is welcome, but not required. You can also check the libraries for the book or buy it for your e-reader.

SUNDAY,  January 31

Taste and See, An Introduction to the Eucharist for Young Children, 9am: This simple little class is geared for kids ages 3 – 7, and your child is welcome, whatever their level of participation or understanding! Parents welcome too. :-)

Candlemas Last Sunday Worship, 10am: We will celebrate Candlemas with a brief story and candle-lighting prayers at the end of our liturgy. Bring your flashlights and emergency candles from home to be blessed!

Poetry at St. Dunstan’s: After the 10am service this Sunday, some members will share poems with themes of Epiphany and winter. If you would like to participate, bring a poem to read aloud – one of your own, or a favorite by somebody else. There is an optional rehearsal on Saturday morning at 10:30am at St. Dunstan’s.

Recovery Eucharist, 6pm: The Recovery Eucharist, celebrated in many churches, is designed for those recovering from any addiction and for those who support them in their recovery. Elements of the service are drawn from the Book of Common Prayer and the 12 Step readings. Our first Recovery Eucharist falls on the feast day of Samuel Shoemaker (1893-1963), who contributed to the growth of the Twelve Step movement. The Eucharist will be celebrated with grape juice instead of wine. All are welcome; feel free to invite a friend.

Survival Kits for Homeless Teens: We are stocking three backpacks with essentials for teenagers who are living on the streets. Thanks to all who have already helped out; please return all items by Sunday, February 7. Financial contributions are also welcome.

Do you love getting books into the hands of readers? Our St. Dunstan’s Little Free Library is seeking a new co-Librarian or two. The Library sits on the southeast corner of our property, and can be reached by car or on foot through our woods. The Library needs to be checked and restocked (every few weeks in winter, perhaps weekly in nice weather), and this task can easily be shared by a small team of helpers. Members and friends of St. Dunstan’s donate used books to put in our Library. Please talk to Rev. Miranda or email at to get involved!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Game Night, Friday, February 5, 5:30 – 8:30pm: Join us for an evening of games for all ages. Friends, partners, kids all welcome. Bring a snack to share, or come as you are!

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored Sunday, February 7, 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, Sunday, February 7: 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, February 7: 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 top ten items needed at this time: cooking oil, canned soup (no tomato), meals in a can, canned meats (tuna/chicken/turkey/salmon), meals in a box (helpers, etc.), laundry detergent, sugar, toothbrushes/toothpaste, shampoo/conditioner, and Kleenex/facial tissue. Quality bedding items, such as comforters, sheets, blankets and towels are always needed too. Thank you for all your support!

Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, February 7, 12noon: The kids and families of St. Dunstan’s are invited to prepare Backpack Snack Packs, to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks for the weekend. Come to the Meeting Room at St. Dunstan’s following the 10am service.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, February 7, 6pm: A simple service before the week begins.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 9, 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. If you’d like to help or contribute, see the signup sheets in the Gathering Area.

LOOKING TOWARDS 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.

Ash Wednesday services will be at noon, 4pm, and 7pm on Wednesday, February 10. The 4pm service is especially intended for kids and families.

Ashes To Go, Wednesday, February 10, 8 – 9am and 2 – 3pm: Our drop-in “Ashes To Go” station will be at Old Middleton Road & St Dunstan Drive, besides our signboard and Little Free Library. Pull over on St. Dunstan Drive or park across the street on Stonefield Rd. Imposition of ashes, prayer, and warm beverages will be available.

Making Crosses: A Creative Connection to God, Friday, February 19, or Saturday, February 20. This two-hour event is both a crafting session and retreat for theological reflection on the themes of Lent. We will make crosses out of found objects. All skill levels are heartily welcomed. The event will be offered twice: Friday, February 19, 1 – 3pm, for adults only; and Saturday, February 20, 9 – 11am, all ages welcome. (Children 7 and up may participate. Younger kids will have their own program in another room.)

Seeking Found Objects! Do you have some interesting bits and bobs that have no practical use, and yet you’re somehow reluctant to simply throw them away? Check your junk drawer, your workshop shelf, the dusty corner of your crafting area, and see what’s hiding there. Whether you plan to participate in “Making Crosses” or not, you’re invited to gather and contribute a few items to the found-object crosses that we will create. All items should be clean, safe to handle, and no bigger than a standard desktop stapler; other than that, it’s wide open. Please bring items to the labeled box in the Gathering Area by Friday, February 19.

Lenten 9am Study Group – Growing a Rule of Life: In this series, offered by the Society of St. John the Evangelist, an order of Episcopal monks, we focus on God as the Chief Gardener of our souls, and we seek out ways to grow into the fullness he desires. This series uses a tool from monastic spirituality called a ‘Rule of Life’ to explore and cultivate our relationships with God, Self, Others, and Creation. To participate, sign up at ssje.org/ssje/growrule/ to receive the daily email prompts, and come to the Meeting Room on Sundays at 9am, starting February 14, for group discussion about our individual work. You’re also free to participate in this series as an individual, without attending the group gatherings.

Lenten Virtual Book Group: Unapologetic, by Francis Spufford. Rev. Miranda invites members and friends to a “virtual book group” this Lent, beginning the third week in February. We’ll read along together during Lent and share reactions and reflections on a Facebook group. We may also plan one or more in-person book discussion sessions as well, if there is interest. If you’d like to participate, please sign up in the Gathering Area, so we can get an idea of how many books to order. Books will be ordered the week following Sunday, February 7. A $10 donation to defray the cost of the books is welcome, but not required. You can also check the libraries for the book or buy it for your e-reader.

SUNDAY,  JANUARY 24

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

Youth Lunch & Learn starts Sunday, 12 noon! 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, 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.

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

Survival Kits for Homeless Teens: We are stocking three backpacks with essentials for teenagers who are living on the streets, to be distributed through the Transition Education Program, a program of the Madison school district to support homeless kids and youth. Check out the display in the Gathering Area and take a tag or two for items you’d like to provide. In addition to the individual items, we are looking for a team to assemble three first-aid kits. We would like to gather all items by Sunday, February 7.

Do you love getting books into the hands of readers? Our St. Dunstan’s Little Free Library is seeking a new co-Librarian, or two. The Library sits on the southeast corner of our property, at Old Middleton Road and St. Dunstan Drive, and can be reached by car or on foot through our woods. The Library needs to be checked and restocked (every few weeks in winter, perhaps weekly in nice weather), and this task can easily be shared by a small team of helpers. Members and friends of St. Dunstan’s donate used books to put in our Library. Please talk to Rev. Miranda or email to get involved!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Listening Group Gathering, Wednesday, January 27:  Are you seeking more clarity, direction, or sense of purpose in your daily life? Would you like a trusted group of spiritual companions to talk and pray with? We are gathering people interested in being part of a regularly-meeting Listening Group. If you’d like to be involved, please attend this meeting, or let Rev. Miranda know about your interest at 608-238-2781.

Taste and See, An Introduction to the Eucharist for Young Children, Sunday, Jan. 31, 9am: This simple little class is geared for kids ages 3 – 7, and your child is welcome, whatever their level of participation or understanding! Parents welcome too. :-)

Candlemas Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, January 31, 10am: We will celebrate Candlemas with a brief story and candle-lighting prayers at the end of our liturgy. Bring your flashlights and emergency candles from home to be blessed!

Recovery Eucharist, Sunday, January 31, 6pm: The Recovery Eucharist, celebrated in many churches, is designed for those recovering from any addiction and for those who support them in their recovery. Elements of the service are drawn from the Book of Common Prayer and the 12 Step readings. Our first Recovery Eucharist falls on the feast day of Samuel Shoemaker (1893-1963), who contributed to the growth of the Twelve Step movement. The Eucharist will be celebrated with grape juice instead of wine. All are welcome; feel free to invite a friend.

Game Night, Friday, February 5, 5:30 – 8:30pm: Join us for an evening of games for all ages. Friends, partners, kids all welcome. Bring a snack to share, or come as you are!

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 9, 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. If you’d like to help or contribute, see the signup sheets in the Gathering Area.

LOOKING TOWARDS 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.

Ash Wednesday services will be at noon, 4pm, and 7pm on Wednesday, February 10. The 4pm service is especially intended for kids and families.

Ashes To Go, Wednesday, February 10, 8 – 9am and 2 – 3pm: Our drop-in “Ashes To Go” station will be at Old Middleton Road & St Dunstan Drive, besides our signboard and Little Free Library. Pull over on St. Dunstan Drive or park across the street on Stonefield Rd. Imposition of ashes, prayer, and warm beverages will be available.

Lenten 9am Study Group – Growing a Rule of Life: In this series, offered by the Society of St. John the Evangelist, an order of Episcopal monks, we focus on God as the Chief Gardener of our souls, and we seek out ways to grow into the fullness he desires. This series uses a tool from monastic spirituality called a ‘Rule of Life’ to explore and cultivate our relationships with God, Self, Others, and Creation. To participate, sign up at ssje.org/ssje/growrule/ to receive the daily email prompts, and come to the Meeting Room on Sundays at 9am, starting February 14, for group discussion about our individual work. You’re also free to participate in this series as an individual, without attending the group gatherings.

Lenten Virtual Book Group: Unapologetic, by Francis Spufford. Rev. Miranda invites members and friends to a “virtual book group” this Lent, beginning the third week in February. We’ll read along together during Lent and share reactions and reflections on a Facebook group. We may also plan one or more in-person book discussion sessions as well, if there is interest. If you’d like to participate, please sign up in the Gathering Area, so we can get an idea of how many books to order. Books will be ordered the week following Sunday, February 7. A $10 donation to defray the cost of the books is welcome, but not required. You can also check the libraries for the book or buy it for your e-reader.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17…

Guest Preacher, 10am: Percy Brown is the Director of Equity and Student Achievement for the Middleton-Cross Plains School District, and serves with Rev. Miranda on a local task force focused on addressing racial disparities in Middleton. We are glad to welcome Percy as our guest speaker this Sunday!

Sunday School, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning about Holy Baptism, while our 7-11 year old class digs into the story of the Wedding at Cana.

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 on 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. Thank you for your generosity.

Christian Formation Meeting, 12 noon: If you would like to help plan our ministries and programs that help people learn, reflect, and grow in faith, come along!

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

Younger Adults 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.

Kids for Kids Success! Through your generous gifts this past Advent, we raised enough to buy four goats through Episcopal Relief and Development’s Gifts for Life program! Thanks so much to all who contributed, and to the kids for their commitment.

Survival Kits for Homeless Teens: We are stocking three backpacks with essentials for teenagers who are living on the streets, to be distributed through the Transition Education Program, a program of the Madison school district to support homeless kids and youth. Check out the display in the Gathering Area and take a tag or two for items you’d like to provide. In addition to the individual items, we are looking for a team to assemble three first-aid kits. We would like to gather all items by Sunday, February 7.

Do you love getting books into the hands of readers? Our St. Dunstan’s Little Free Library is seeking a new co-Librarian, or two. The Library sits on the southeast corner of our property, at Old Middleton Road and St. Dunstan Drive, and can be reached by car or on foot through our woods. The Library needs to be checked and restocked (every few weeks in winter, perhaps weekly in nice weather), and this task can easily be shared by a small team of helpers. Members and friends of St. Dunstan’s donate used books to put in our Library. Please talk to Rev. Miranda To get involved!

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, January 22, 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 Sa-Bai Thong at 6802 Odana Road in Madison.

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 24, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2016 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

Youth Lunch & Learn starts Sunday, January 24! 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 if that helps.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, January 24, 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.

Recovery Eucharist, Sunday, January 31, 6pm: The Recovery Eucharist, celebrated in many churches, is designed for those recovering from any addiction and for those who support them in their recovery. Elements of the service are drawn from the Book of Common Prayer and the 12 Step readings. Our first Recovery Eucharist falls on the feast day of Samuel Shoemaker (1893-1963), who contributed to the growth of the Twelve Step movement. The Eucharist will be celebrated with grape juice instead of wine. All are welcome; feel free to invite a friend.

Understanding Racial Disparities in Dane County, Thursday, Feb. 25, 11am, St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, Middleton: Ken Taylor of the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families, which produced the Race to Equity report, and Percy Brown, who works with equity issues in the Middleton school district, will offer a presentation for all those interested in learning more about the barriers to racial equity in our local communities. A $5 donation is requested. Please RSVP to Rev. Miranda at or 238-2781 so that we can let St. Luke’s know how many we are bringing and make provisions for lunch!

SUNDAY…

Thorny Theology – Eucharist 101, Sunday, January 10, 9am: This is the first in a series of occasional 9am gatherings to bounce around some of the big difficult ideas and questions of church and faith. This week we’ll focus on the Eucharist. What is it, where does it come from, and what do Episcopalians believe about it? All are welcome!

Sunday School, Sunday, January 10, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning about the story of the Epiphany, while our 7-11 year old class will hear about the baptism of Jesus.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, January 10, 11:45am: 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 WEEKS AHEAD…

Sunday School, Sunday, January 17, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning about Holy Baptism, while our 7-11 year old class digs into the story of the Wedding at Cana.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, January 17: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks, will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day on 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. Thank you for your generosity.

Christian Formation Meeting, Sunday, January 17, 12 noon: If you would like to help plan our ministries and programs that help people learn, reflect, and grow in faith, come along!

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, January 17, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Younger Adults Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, January 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.

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 24, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2016 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

Youth Lunch & Learn starts Sunday, January 24! 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.

Epiphany House Blessings: In the season of Epiphany, which this year lasts from January 6 to February 9, there is a long tradition of blessing the homes in which God’s people live, work, and play. In honor of the journey of the Magi to find the Christ Child, we bless each home in the name of those wise and holy men. Would you like your home blessed this Epiphany? Call the church office at 238-2781, and we will work together to schedule times when we can visit to share this lovely traditional rite, honoring the holiness of your homes and inviting God’s continuing presence there.

SUNDAY…

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored this Sunday, January 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.

Healing Prayer, Sunday, January 3: One of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of other.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, January 3: This Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Groceries are welcome gifts too. Here are the top ten items needed at this time: macaroni and cheese, pater, canned meat (tuna/turkey/chicken), meals in a box, canned soup (no tomato, healthier varieties), mandarin oranges, canned pineapple, sugar, flour, diapers (sizes 4,5 and 6). There is always a need for quality bedding items such as comforters, sheets, blankets and towels too. Thank you for all your support!

Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, January 3, 12 noon: The kids and families of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join our Foundry 414 church neighbors in preparing Backpack Snack Packs, to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks available over the weekend. We’ll work in the Chapel Meeting Room following the 10am service.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, January 3, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Epiphany Service of Light, Thursday, January 7, 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! All are welcome. Talk to Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes if you’d like to be a reader for this service.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, January 9, 10am: “Crossing to Safety” by Wallace Stegner is the book this month. Tracing the lives, loves and aspiration of two couples who move between Vermont and Wisconsin, it is a work of quiet majesty, deep compassion, and powerful insights into the alchemy of friendship and marriage. If you have questions, contact Jim Hindle.

End of the Holidays Lunch, Saturday, January 9, at Sprecher’s: After Advent, Christmas and then Epiphany, it’s a good time to gather for conversation, relaxation, good food and laughter as we celebrate the end of the Holiday season. We will meet at Sprecher’s – across from the Marriot West at 12:30pm. Men and women are invited. We will be ordering from the menu. This event is sponsored by the St. Dunstan’s ECW (Episcopal Church Women). Sign up on the bulletin board in the Gathering Space. Please join us! Questions, contact either Connie Ott or Rose Mueller.

Due to the fact that the 2nd Wednesday in February will fall on Ash Wednesday, the Madison Area Julian Gathering will not meet in January or February. We will resume on March 9, 2016, at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, 6205 University Ave., Madison, WI, beginning at 7:15 P.M. All are welcome to join us for Still Prayer and conversation about Julian of Norwich, her life and writings.

Sunday School, Sunday, January 10, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning about the story of the Epiphany, while our 7-11 year old class will hear about the baptism of Jesus.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, January 10, 11:45am: 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.

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 24, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2016 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services:

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

Festal Eucharist, Thursday, December 24, 9pm

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 10am

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27…

First Sunday of Christmas and Hymn Sing, Sunday, December 27, 10am: Father John Rasmus will preside. All are welcome!

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, December 27, 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.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, January 3, 12 noon: The kids and families of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join our Foundry 414 church neighbors in preparing Backpack Snack Packs, to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks available over the weekend. We’ll work in the Chapel Meeting Room following the 10am service.

Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored next Sunday, January 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.

Healing Prayer, Sunday, January 3: Next Sunday, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of other.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, January 3: Next Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Groceries are welcome gifts too. Here are the top ten items needed at this time: macaroni and cheese, pater, canned meat (tuna/turkey/chicken), meals in a box, canned soup (no tomato, healthier varieties), mandarin oranges, canned pineapple, sugar, flour, diapers (sizes 4,5 and 6). There is always a need for quality bedding items such as comforters, sheets, blankets and towels too. Thank you for all your support!

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, January 3, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins.

Epiphany Service of Light, Thursday, January 7, 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! All are welcome. Talk to Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes if you’d like to be a reader for this service.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, January 9, 10am: “Crossing to Safety” by Wallace Stegner is the book this month. Tracing the lives, loves and aspiration of two couples who move between Vermont and Wisconsin, it is a work of quiet majesty, deep compassion, and powerful insights into the alchemy of friendship and marriage.

Due to the fact that the 2nd Wednesday in February will fall on Ash Wednesday, the Madison Area Julian Gathering will not meet in January or February. We will resume on March 9, 2016, at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, 6205 University Ave., Madison, WI, beginning at 7:15 P.M. All are welcome to join us for Still Prayer and conversation about Julian of Norwich, her life and writings.

Sunday School, Sunday, January 10, 10am: This week, our 3-6 year old class will be learning about the story of the Epiphany, while our 7-11 year old class will hear about the baptism of Jesus.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, January 10, 11:45am: 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.

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 24, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2016 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

IN THE WIDER CHURCH & COMMUNITY…

Madison-Area Confirmation Class, Winter/Spring 2016: Confirmation is a rite of the church by which a young person (ages 12 and up) affirms their commitment to the vows made for them in baptism, or in which an adult who has joined the Episcopal Church formally affirms their belonging. The Madison-area Episcopal parishes will host a six-week Confirmation preparation, starting February 6, for a Confirmation service to be held on April 30. The class will meet first and third Saturdays at 10am, rotating among the area churches. Talk to Rev. Miranda if you’d like to learn more or get involved!

Camp Webb 2016 (June 19 – 25) is accepting applications now! Camp Webb is an outdoor ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, for children and youth grades 2 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. Visit http://www.diomil.org/ministries/christian-formation/camp-webb/ for registration forms. Camp Webb IS EXPECTED TO FILL this year, so apply soon!

SUNDAY…

Rector’s Discretionary Fund, Sunday, December 20: 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.

Christmas Pageant Practice, Sunday, Dec. 20, 11:30am: All Actors, Readers & Wranglers are invited to a practice session for our Christmas Eve pageant. We will order pizza to sustain our team, and will go no later than 12:30pm.

Come and help with the Greening of the Church! Sunday, December 20, after the 10am service: We will have fresh greenery, gifted by Jack and Ginny Dennis, and lovely poinsettias to place.

The Longest Night: A Liturgy of Light in the Midst of Darkness, Sunday, Dec. 20, 6pm. On December 20th, 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.

 OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE…

Kids for Kids: The children of St. Dunstan’s would like to raise enough money to buy a pair of goats for people in need around the world – a total of $160. Put your donation in the bank in the Gathering Area, or give online at donate.stdunstans.com!

Bring Christmas Cheer to St. Dunstan’s! 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.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

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 2015. Wardens and Diocesan Convention deputies must be elected every year, so candidates for Junior and Senior Warden may also be nominated.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services:

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

Festal Eucharist, Thursday, December 24, 9pm

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 10am

Calendar Notes:

• Miranda will be taking some time off after Christmas. Father John Rasmus will be available if anyone urgently needs to speak with a priest during Rev. Miranda’s absence.
• No Book Group on the 23^rd. We’ll meet again on December 30^th.
• No Watch Night service on December 31. Enjoy your New Year’s Eve!
• The church office will be closed December 24, 25 and December 31 and January 1^st. Happy New Year to all!

Epiphany Service of Light, Thursday, January 7, 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! All are welcome. Talk to Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes if you’d like to be a reader for this service.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, January 9, 10am: “Crossing to Safety” by Wallace Stegner is the book this month. Tracing the lives, loves and aspiration of two couples who move between Vermont and Wisconsin, it is a work of quiet majesty, deep compassion, and powerful insights into the alchemy of friendship and marriage.

Due to the fact that the 2nd Wednesday in February will fall on Ash Wednesday, the Madison Area Julian Gathering will not meet in January or February. We will resume on March 9, 2016, at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, 6205 University Ave., Madison, WI, beginning at 7:15 P.M. All are welcome to join us for Still Prayer and conversation about Julian of Norwich, her life and writings.

Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 24, 9am: Come to hear parish updates, including the 2016 budget, and help elect our parish leaders. All are welcome to attend!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13…

Advent Art Reflection, 9am: We will have several reflective art stations set up in the Meeting Room. Come color, collage, or sketch your way into the expectant heart of Advent.

Sunday School, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 – 6 year old class will continue exploring the season of Advent, while our 7 – 11 year old class will dig into John the Baptist’s proclamation of good (?) news.

Service of Lessons and Music, Sunday, 10am: Our special Lessons & Music service this Advent will focus on the life and preaching of John the Baptist.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, 11:45am: 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.

Younger Adults Meet-up 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.

 Put your Sharing Christmas gifts under the Tree today! If you took a gift tag, please bring the gift back to church by today. 

OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE…

Kids for Kids: The children of St. Dunstan’s would like to raise enough money to buy a pair of goats for people in need around the world – a total of $160. Put your donation in the bank in the Gathering Area to support their endeavor! Read more about Episcopal Relief & Development’s Gifts for Life program here: http://www.episcopalrelief.org/what-you-can-do/gifts-for-life.

Bring Christmas Cheer to St. Dunstan’s! 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.

MOM Tribute Cards: Would someone on your gift list prefer a gift to charity? This season we are offering Tribute Cards. Make a donation of $10 or more, and take a card to give to someone you care about. All proceeds will go to MOM (Middleton Outreach Ministry) to support their work preventing homelessness and feeding the hungry. Make checks out to St. Dunstan’s, with “MOM Card” on the memo line.

THE WEEKS AHEAD…

Vestry Meeting, Wednesday, December 16, 6:45pm: The Vestry is the elected leadership body of our parish. Any members are welcome to attend Vestry meetings, to observe or raise questions or ideas.

Caroling Ministry, Thursday/Friday/Saturday, Dec. 17 – 19: Everyone who would like to visit and sing for some of our elders and homebound members is invited to participate. We will meet to practice our short list of carols at 7pm on Thursday, December 17. On Friday, Dec. 18, we will meet at the church at 5:30pm to warm up and head out to make four visits. On Saturday, Dec. 19, a second group may make another 2 – 3 visits, depending on availability. All are welcome!

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, December 18, 6pm: Come 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 Oliva at 751 N. High Point Road in Madison.

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 2015. Wardens and Diocesan Convention deputies must be elected every year, so candidates for Junior and Senior Warden may also be nominated.

Christmas Pageant Practice, Sunday, Dec. 20, 11:30am: All Actors, Readers & Wranglers are invited to a practice session for our Christmas Eve pageant. We will order pizza to sustain our team, and will go no later than 12:30pm.

Come and help with the Greening of the Church! Sunday, December 20, after the 10am service: We will have fresh greenery, gifted by Jack and Ginny Dennis, and lovely poinsettias to place. Sign-up sheet to help is in the Gathering Area.

The Longest Night: A Liturgy of Light in the Midst of Darkness, Sunday, Dec. 20, 6pm. On December 20th, 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, Thursday, December 24, 3pm

Festal Eucharist, Thursday, December 24, 9pm

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 10am

Calendar Note – No Watch Night service on December 31. Enjoy your New Year’s Eve!

Epiphany Service of Light, Thursday, January 7, 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! All are welcome. Talk to Rev. Miranda or Sharon Henes if you’d like to be a reader for this service