SUNDAY…

The Poetry of Advent, Sunday, December 6, 9am: Bring a favorite Advent poem to share, or simply come to listen and reflect.

Sunday School, Sunday, December 6, 10am: This week, our 3 – 6 year old class will be learning about the story of Advent, while our 7 – 10 year old class will explore the story of the birth of John the Baptist.

Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, December 6, 12noon: The kids and grownups of St. Dunstan’s are invited to help 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 following the 10am service.

MOM Special Offering: This Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated check will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministries’ food pantry. Thanks for all your generous support!

Healing Prayer: One of our ministers will offer Healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others. Also, Birthdays and Anniversaries will be honored. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

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

Put your Sharing Christmas gifts under the Tree by Sunday, December 13! If you took a gift tag, please bring the gift back to church by next Sunday. Attach the ornament to the gift when you return it. You can wrap the gift or we can wrap it for you.

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.

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.

Church, Faith and Life Study Summary: A document summarizing the outcomes of our early summer survey and focus groups, and pointing towards next steps, is available in the Gathering Area. Take and read!

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. Sign-up on the red Christmas Flowers 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…

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

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.

Help Make Christmas Eve Special! If you plan to attend either of our Christmas Eve services (our 3pm family pageant service or our 9pm festive Eucharist), please consider helping with hospitality for the many visitors who will attend. We need Greeters for both services, people to help set up and serve cookies and cocoa after the afternoon service, and, weather permitting, people to help set up our outdoor creche. Contact the office if you’d like to help out (238-2781, ).

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, December 9, 7:15-9pm: All are welcome to join in contemplative prayer and to learn more about St. Julian of Norwich.

Advent Quiet Day, Saturday, December 12, 1 – 4:30pm: Come spend some time in intentional silence. You may color, read, participate in Advent prayer stations, walk the grounds, sit in silence, or converse quietly in a designated area. We’ll begin and end in prayer. You’re welcome to invite a friend.

The Art of Advent, Sunday, December 13, 9am: Bring a favorite Advent image, or simply come to look, reflect, and share.

Service of Lessons and Music, Sunday, December 13, 10am: Our special Lessons & Music service this Advent will focus on the life of John the Baptist. A signup sheet for our festive Coffee Hour is available in the Gathering Area.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, December 18, 6pm: This month we will meet at Oliva at 751 N. High Point Road in Madison.

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.

SUNDAY…

All-Ages Advent Worship, 10am: We will begin the season of Advent with All-Ages Worship, exploring the symbols, stories and songs of this new season together. Before and after the service, craft stations will be available for kids (and non-kids) to make small gifts for their loved ones. In addition, Advent materials, including candles and prayers for at-home use, are available in the Gathering Area.

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.

 Advent Virtual Book Group: Daring Greatly.  You’re invited to join a virtual book group. We will read Brene Brown’s bestselling book Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way we Live, Love, Parent, and Lead, and share reactions and reflections in a Facebook group. We may also plan one or more face-to-face discussions if there is interest in doing so.  Sign up in the Gathering Area and/or join the Facebook group “Advent Reading Group: Daring Greatly.”

 Altar Flowers: December dates are 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).

 THE WEEKS AHEAD…

ECW Women’s Day Away, Tuesday, Dec 1: Come have some fun and share a day in Baraboo with friends, good shopping and lunch. There are a great many shops to choose from within a 2-3 block walk on 3rd and 4th St. including Yarn Arts Cafe and Ardyth’s Sew and Vac (quilting/sewing). the others are Berkah Kate’s cookware and gadgets, Just Imagine Toys (for all ages), Lillian Verrall Accessories and Gifts, Cornerstone Gallery, Countryside refined, Tuff Dog Leather, Amber Moon and Green Vine (a possible lunch location) – sign up on Sunday (on bulletin board). We’ll be leaving from the St. D’s parking lot at 8:30am. Come enjoy a great day!

The Poetry of Advent, Sunday, December 6, 9am: Bring a favorite Advent poem to share, or simply come to listen and reflect together.

Sunday School, Sunday, December 6, 10am: Next week, our 3 – 6 year old class will be learning about the story of Advent, while our 7 – 10 year old class will explore the story of the birth of John the Baptist.

Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, December 6, 12noon: 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.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, December 6: Next Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated check will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministries’ food pantry. Groceries are a welcome gift too. Here are the top 10 most needed items at this time: macaroni and cheese; pasta; 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. The pantry is always in need of quality bedding items such as comforters, sheets, blankets and towels. Thanks for all your generous support!

Healing Prayer, Sunday, December 6: 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, December 6. Come forward after the Announcements to receive a blessing and the community’s prayers.

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

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, December 9, 7:15-9pm: All are welcome to join in contemplative prayer and to learn more about St. Julian of Norwich. For more information, contact Susan Fiore, ObJN at or (608) 845-2413.

Advent Quiet Day, Saturday, December 12, 1 – 4:30pm: Come spend some time in intentional silence. You may color, read, participate in Advent prayer stations, walk the grounds, sit in silence, or converse quietly in a designated area. We’ll begin and end in prayer. You’re welcome to invite a friend. Talk to Sharon Henes if you’d like to help out with snacks, art, music, or other elements of the day.

The Art of Advent, Sunday, December 13, 9am: Bring a favorite Advent image, or simply come to look, reflect, and share.

Service of Lessons and Music, Sunday, December 13, 10am: Our special Lessons & Music service this Advent will focus on the life and preaching of John the Baptist. A signup sheet for our festive Coffee Hour will be available soon.

 Caroling Ministry: Would you like to join a small group of singers, prepare a set of songs and readings, and visit some of our homebound elders to sing for them, one evening near Christmas? Talk with Rev. Miranda or sign up in the Gathering Area to get involved in this new ministry, intended to share the spirit of the holy season and the love of this parish with those who are rarely able to worship with us.

Share your Christmas with our neighbors! St Dunstan’s will sponsor 20 people through MOM’s Sharing Christmas program this year.  Please take one or more gift tags from the display in the Gathering Area and purchase a gift. Wrapped gifts will need to be back at St Dunstan’s on December 13.

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 or with any questions.

SUNDAY and THE WEEK AHEAD…

Piece Be with You! Please join us between services at 9:00am for a festive, all-parish brunch celebrating the ingathering of our prayers, hopes, and financial pledges for our parish life in the coming year. We will enjoy fellowship, delicious pies, quiches and other offerings.

 Anticipating Advent: Advent materials, including candles and prayers for at-home use, will be available starting on Sunday, November 22. Advent is the season of expectation that precedes Christmas, the Feast of the Incarnation; and it is also the beginning of a new church year!

 Advent Virtual Book Group: Daring Greatly.  Starting on November 22, you’re invited to join a virtual book group. We will read Brene Brown’s bestselling book Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way we Live, Love, Parent, and Lead, and share reactions and reflections in a Facebook group. We may also plan one or more face-to-face discussions if there is interest in doing so.  Sign up in the Gathering Area and/or join the Facebook group “Advent Reading Group: Daring Greatly.” Please let Rev. Miranda know if you need help getting a copy of the book. It is readily available at your local library or online, in new, used, Kindle and audio editions.

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.

Thanksgiving Service, Wednesday, November 25, 7pm: There will be a simple Eucharist service on Wednesday evening. All are welcome.

Black Friday Craft-In, Friday, November 27, 1 – 4pm, St. Dunstan’s Church: Tired of the mall? Make stuff. Give it away. This year we’ll host our second annual Black Friday Craft-In, a free public crafting event. If you’ll be in town and would like to volunteer to help out, please sign up in the Gathering Area or email Rev. Miranda. We can use all kinds of volunteers – whether your skill is sewing, woodworking, stamping, paper crafting, smiling at people and saying “Welcome!” setting up tables, or putting cookies on plates.

 Last Call – Donations, Names & Addresses for Military and College Student Care Packages: The Youth Group will be creating and sending out care packages early in December. If you have a college student or service member in your network who would like a care package, please provide name and address to Sharon Henes at .  Thank you for your support!

Altar Flowers: December dates are 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).

ADVENT OFFERINGS…

All-Ages Advent Worship, Sunday, November 29, 10am: We will begin the season of Advent with All-Ages Worship, exploring the symbols, stories and songs of this new season together. Before and after the service, craft stations will be available for kids (and non-kids) to make small gifts for their loved ones.

ECW Women’s Day Away, Tuesday, Dec 1: Take the opportunity to share a day in a small near-by community with good shopping and lunch. This year we will be going to Baraboo, leaving the St. D’s parking lot at 8:30am. We will stop in Sauk City for coffee and sweets at Leistra, a long time restaurant with fantastic cinnamon rolls. Then on to Baraboo with maps, store listings and the highlighted lunch location in hand. After lunch, we’ll head home or do a bit more shopping. Please see sign-up on bulletin board. There will be Baraboo information in weeks to come.

The Poetry of Advent, Sunday, December 6, 9am: Bring a favorite Advent poem to share, or simply come to listen and reflect together.

Advent Quiet Day, Saturday, December 12, 1 – 4:30pm: Come spend some time in intentional silence. You may color, read, participate in Advent prayer stations, walk the grounds, sit in silence, or converse quietly in a designated area. We’ll begin and end in prayer. You’re welcome to invite a friend. Talk to Sharon Henes if you’d like to help out with snacks, art, music, or other elements of the day.

Service of Lessons and Music, Sunday, December 13, 10am: Our special Lessons & Music service this Advent will focus on the life and preaching of John the Baptist. A signup sheet for our festive Coffee Hour will be available soon.

 Caroling Ministry: Would you like to join a small group of singers, prepare a set of songs and readings, and visit some of our homebound elders to sing for them, one evening near Christmas? Talk with Rev. Miranda or sign up in the Gathering Area to get involved in this new ministry, intended to share the spirit of the holy season and the love of this parish with those who are rarely able to worship with us.

Share your Christmas with our neighbors! St Dunstan’s will sponsor 20 people through MOM’s Sharing Christmas program this year. The tree with gift tags will be up by Sunday, Nov. 22nd. Please take one or more tags and purchase a gift. Wrapped gifts will need to be back at St Dunstan’s on December 13.

IN THE WIDER CHURCH & COMMUNITY…

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, NOVEMBER 15….

A Spirituality of Gratitude: Anne Lamott’s “Thanks”, 9am: All are welcome to a conversation about how to cultivate a spirit of gratitude even in hard times.

 Sunday School, Sunday, 10am: This week, our 3-5 year old class will learn about the people of Israel’s journey of Exile and Return, while the 6-10 year old class hears about Jesus’ prediction of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks, will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund today 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.

Christian Formation Meeting, 12pm: We will firm up our Advent Christian Formation plans and begin planning for our special Lent programs. All interested folk are welcome!

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

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 too.

Kids’ Ornament Sale: Christmas ornaments are available in the Gathering Area, for a suggested donation of $1 each. Buy a couple to hang on your tree or tuck into Christmas boxes!

Remembrance Station: Our Remembrance Station hangs in our nave for the month of November. Consider bringing in a copy of a photo, note, or other token of one of those whom you remember with love, as an extension of our All Saints commemorations. On Sunday, November 22, we will commend these faithful departed to Christ our King.

Episcopal Church Year Guide 2016 Calendars: 2016 Church calendars are available in the Gathering Area. If you wish, a $3.00 donation would be appreciated.

THE WEEKS AHEAD….

Needed – Ushers for 5th Sunday in November: If you are able to help out with ushering on November 29, please let Pamela in the office know at (608) 238-2781. We are also looking for help on the 2nd Sundays from December through May (Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, Mar. 13, Apr 10 and May 8). If you can usher one or more of those Sundays, let us know. Thanks!

Vestry Meeting, Wednesday, November 18, 6:45pm: The Vestry is the elected leadership body of our parish. Any members are welcome to attend our meetings, to observe or raise questions or ideas.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, November 20, 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 La Mestiza, 6644 Odana Road, Madison, for Mexican food.

Military and College Student Care Packages: The Youth Group is collecting donations during November to be included in care packages for military personnel and college students. There is a list of suggested items by the donation box. If you have a college student or service member who you would a care package sent to, please provide name and address to the office, email to . The youth will be assembling and mailing the care packages the first week of December. Thank you for your support!

 Piece Be with You! Please join us between services at 9:00am on November 22nd for a festive, all-parish brunch celebrating the ingathering of our prayers, hopes, and financial pledges for our parish life in the coming year. We will enjoy fellowship, delicious pies, quiches and other offerings. Please sign up to bring your favorite pie or quiche. Pre-cut pies with labeled pie servers would be much appreciated. For questions or to help out, contact the office at 238-2781. Thank you!

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, November 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.

Thanksgiving Service, Wednesday, November 25, 7pm: There will be a simple Eucharist service on Wednesday evening. All are welcome.

Black Friday Craft-In, Friday, November 27, 1 – 4pm, St. Dunstan’s Church: Tired of the mall? Make stuff. Give it away. This year we’ll host our second annual Black Friday Craft-In, a free public crafting event. If you’ll be in town and would like to volunteer to help out, please sign up in the Gathering Area or email the office at . We can use all kinds of volunteers – whether your skill is sewing, woodworking, stamping, paper crafting, smiling at people and saying “Welcome!” setting up tables, or putting cookies on plates.

ECW Women’s Day Away, Tuesday, Dec 1: Take the opportunity to share a day in a small near-by community with good shopping and lunch. This year we will be going to Baraboo, leaving the St. D’s parking lot at 8:30am. We will stop in Sauk City for coffee and sweets at Leistra, a long time restaurant with fantastic cinnamon rolls. Then on to Baraboo with maps, store listings and the highlighted lunch location in hand. After lunch, we’ll head home or do a bit more shopping. Please see sign-up on bulletin board. There will be Baraboo information in weeks to come.

SUNDAY….

Budget & Finances Listening Session, 9am: Do you have questions or ideas about our parish’s finances or our Draft 2016 Budget? Come meet with the Rector, Treasurer, and other church leaders between services. All are welcome.

 Sunday School, 10am: Today, our 3-5 year old class will learn about the building of the first Temple in Jerusalem, while the 6-10 year old class will explore the story of the generous widow.

Annual Meeting of the St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church Women, after the 10am Liturgy: St. Dunstan’s has a very loosely organized Episcopal Church Women group (“ECW”) which has an official 20 minute meeting once a year to plan a couple events. The agenda is quite simple: 1. Decide where to go for the annual “Day Away” for the women of the parish, involving lunch and a little shopping at a destination not far from the church. 2. Decide where to have the Epiphany Lunch – usually on a Saturday close to January 6th. 3. Decide whether and how to use the ECW’s funds.

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.

Kids’ Ornament Sale: Christmas ornaments made by the children of St. Dunstan’s are available in the Gathering Area, for a suggested donation of $1 each, as the kids’ contribution to our fundraising this fall. Buy a couple to hang on your tree or tuck into Christmas boxes!

Remembrance Station: Our Remembrance Station hangs in our nave for the month of November. Consider bringing in a copy of a photo, note, or other token of one of those whom you remember with love, as an extension of our All Saints commemorations. On Sunday, November 22, we will commend these faithful departed to Christ our King.

THE WEEKS AHEAD….

Needed – Ushers for the 2nd Sunday and 5th Sunday in November: If you are able to help out with ushering on this Sunday or on November 29, please call the office at (608) 238-2781. We are also looking for help on the 2nd Sundays from December through May (Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, Mar. 13, Apr 10 and May 8). If you can usher one or more of those Sundays, let us know. Thanks!

Military and College Student Care Packages: The Youth Group is collecting donations during November to be included in care packages for military personnel and college students. There is a list of suggested items by the donation box. If you have a college student or service member who you would a care package sent to, please provide name and address to the church office at . The youth will be assembling and mailing the care packages the first week of December. Thank you for your support!

Wednesday morning women’s book group, every Wednesday, 9:30 – 11am: This group always welcomes new members! Starting this Wednesday, October 28, the group is starting a new book, recommended by Father David Couper, called “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates. Come and read along, enjoy snacks and lively conversation, that is sometimes even about the book!

 Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, November 11, 7:15-9pm: You are welcome to attend our November Julian Gathering to learn why Julian is the ‘hottest’ saint of our time. We are living in a crisis-driven era, and it’s not so easy to believe that “all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well,” as Julian wrote. How could she have been so positive? Come and find out.

Liturgy and Music Meeting, Thursday, November 12, 7pm: At this meeting we’ll check in with our core liturgical ministries, discuss our Advent and Christmas liturgies, and reflect together on how to deepen our shared life of prayer as a parish. All interested people are welcome.

 A Spirituality of Gratitude: Anne Lamott’s “Thanks”, Sunday, November 15, 9am: All are welcome to a conversation about how to cultivate a spirit of gratitude even in hard times.

 Sunday School, Sunday, November 15, 10am: Next week, our 3-5 year old class will learn about the people of Israel’s journey of Exile and Return, while the 6-10 year old class hears about Jesus’ prediction of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Christian Formation Meeting, Sunday, November 15, 12pm: We will firm up our Advent Christian Formation plans and begin planning for our special Lent programs. All interested folk are welcome!

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

Younger Adults Meet-up at the Vintage, Sunday, November 15, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney Way. Friends and partners welcome too.

Piece Be with You! Please join us between services at 9:00am on November 22nd for a festive, all-parish brunch celebrating the ingathering of our prayers, hopes, and financial pledges for our parish life in the coming year. We will enjoy fellowship, delicious pies, quiches and other offerings. Please sign up to bring your favorite pie or quiche. Pre-cut pies with labeled pie servers would be much appreciated. Thank you!

Thanksgiving Service, Wednesday, November 25, 7pm: There will be a simple Eucharist service on Wednesday evening. All are welcome.

Black Friday Craft-In, Friday, November 27, 1 – 4pm, St. Dunstan’s Church: Tired of the mall? Make stuff. Give it away. This year we’ll host our second annual Black Friday Craft-In, a free public crafting event. If you’ll be in town and would like to volunteer to help out, please sign up in the Gathering Area or email the office at . We can use all kinds of volunteers – whether your skill is sewing, woodworking, stamping, paper crafting, smiling at people and saying “Welcome!” setting up tables, or putting cookies on plates.

SUNDAY….

All Saints’ Day, 10am: We celebrate this holy day by remembering the faithful departed; renewing of our baptismal vows; and, at our 10am All-Ages Worship, with kids dressed as famous saints.

 “Holy Dying: Advance Planning from a Christian Perspective,” 9am: All are welcome to a conversation about end-of-life preparation from a spiritual and practical perspective.

Remembrance Station: Our Remembrance Station hangs in our nave for the month of November. Consider bringing in a copy of a photo, note, or other token of one of those whom you remember with love, as an extension of our All Saints commemorations. On Sunday, November 22, we will commend these faithful departed to Christ our King.

 Kids’ Pledge Drive: This Sunday, the kids of St. Dunstan’s are asked to make their pledges to the church – a pledge to participate, learn, wonder, make friends, help out, and grow as God’s people. We will also have Christmas ornaments made by the children of St. Dunstan’s available, for a suggested donation of $1 each, as the kids’ contribution to our fundraising this fall.

Healing Prayer, Birthday and Anniversary Blessings: As is our custom on the first Sunday of the month, one of our ministers will offer healing prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others. Also, birthdays and anniversaries will be honored. 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. Groceries are welcome gifts too. MOM is always in need of quality used bedding items and towels. Thank you for all your support!

Backpack Snack Prep, 11:30am: The people of St. Dunstan’s are invited to help prepare “Backpack Snack Packs” to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks available over the weekend, following the 10am service.

Webcast of the Installation of the Rt. Rev. Michael B. Curry as the 27th Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, Sunday, Nov. 1, following the 10am service: We plan to turn on the livestream of the service in our Meeting Room, as soon as our own liturgy concludes.

The Rev. Sybil Robinson is a much-beloved elder of our parish, an Episcopal deacon, and a retired professor of theater and drama. Sybil has proclaimed the Gospel faithfully for us for many years, even at the age of ninety. However, shortness of breath and other difficulties sometimes make the longer Gospel passages a challenge for Sybil. Starting this month, Sybil will proclaim the Gospel when the text is relatively short, and Rev. Miranda will fill in on other occasions. Please thank Sybil for the blessing of her beautiful and well-trained voice, all these years!

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

HELP WANTED…

Help Feed the Students, Sunday, November 8: St. Dunstan’s is providing dinner for the St. Francis House community, our Episcopal chaplaincy, on Sunday the 8th. Sign up in the Gathering Area to help out! We are asked to provide food for up to 15 people, and we’re invited to attend worship with the students at 5pm. Rev. Miranda will be in touch to work out whether you want to drop off your food Sunday morning, or deliver it yourself. The students thank you!

Needed – Ushers for the 2^nd Sunday and 5^th Sunday in November: If you are able to help out with ushering on the 2^nd or 5^th Sunday this month, please let Pamela in the office know at (608) 238-2781. We are also looking for help on the 2^nd Sundays from December through May (Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, Mar. 13, Apr 10 and May 8). If you can usher one or more of those Sundays, let us know. Thanks!

Black Friday Craft-In, Friday, November 28, 1 – 4pm, St. Dunstan’s Church: This year we’ll host our second annual Black Friday Craft-In, a free public crafting event. If you’ll be in town and would like to volunteer to help out, please sign up in the Gathering Area or email Rev. Miranda at . We can use all kinds of volunteers – whether your skill is sewing, stamping, paper crafting, saying “Welcome!”, setting up tables, or putting cookies on plates.

THE WEEKS AHEAD….

Budget & Finances Listening Session, Sunday, November 8, 9am: Do you have questions or ideas about our parish’s finances or our Draft 2016 Budget? Come meet with the Rector, Treasurer, and other church leaders between services. All are welcome.

 Sunday School, Sunday, November 8, 10am: Next week, our 3-5 year old class will learn about the building of the first Temple, while the older class will explore the story of the generous widow.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, November 8, 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.

Wednesday morning women’s book group, every Wednesday, 9:30 – 11am: Starting this Wednesday, October 28^th, the group is starting a new book, recommended by Father David Couper, called “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates. If you need a book, please contact the office at (608) 238-2781. Come and read along, enjoy snacks and lively conversation, that is sometimes even about the book!

 Annual Meeting of the St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church Women, Sunday, November 8: St. Dunstan’s has a very loosely organized Episcopal Church Women group (“ECW”) which has an official 20 minute meeting once a year to plan a couple events. The agenda is quite simple – 1. Decide where to go for the annual “Day Away” for the women of the parish, involving lunch and a little shopping at a destination not far from the church. 2. Decide where to have the Epiphany Lunch, usually is on a Saturday close to January 6th. 3. Decide whether and how to use the ECW’s funds. Join us in the chapel after the service on Nov. 8th.

Piece Be with You! Please join us between services at 9:00am on November 22nd for a festive, all-parish brunch celebrating the ingathering of our prayers, hopes, and financial pledges for our parish life in the coming year. We will enjoy fellowship, delicious pies, quiches and other offerings. Please sign up to bring your favorite pie or quiche. Pre-cut pies with labeled pie servers would be much appreciated.  Thank you!

SUNDAY….

Giving Campaign Kickoff & Fall Talent Show, October 25, 11:30 – 1pm: Our fall Giving Campaign starts with a Talent Show, at which members of St. Dunstan’s will have the opportunity to share their skills. A light lunch will be served. Come see the accomplishments of fellow parishioners and enjoy the show!

Nursery Care Available This Sunday: We will have child care available in our downstairs nursery this day, as well as in the “play corner.” In future we will plan to have nursery coverage on Sundays when there is neither Sunday school nor all-ages worship.

Bread for the World Blessing of Letters: Sunday we will bless the letters (emails, calls, and Tweets) our members have sent to our elected officials in the past two weeks, urging them to remember the hungry, and specifically, to continue supporting the WIC program. Bring your letter, or fill out a slip that indicates the contacts you have made, and put that in the Offering Plate to be blessed.

 Honoring Our Saints: Please fill out a Saint Form, in preparation for All Saints’ Day, which we will honor on Sunday, Nov. 1. Saint Forms are in the Gathering Area, with a collection box. You can also email Rev. Miranda at with the name of the person you want to remember in love, and a few words about why he or she is so important to you. We will also be hanging a Remembrance Station in our nave for the month of November. Consider bringing in a copy of a photo, note, or other token of one of those whom you remember with love.

St. Dunstan’s Finances-At-a-Glance: As we approach our fall Giving Campaign, our church finances should be clear to all members. Take a look at our display in the Gathering Area. More detailed financial reports are available on request; speak with Rev. Miranda or a vestry member, or call the church office (238-2781).

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, October 25, 7pm: Every fourth Sunday, a loyal group of St. Dunstan’s folk provides dinner for residents at the Grace Church shelter, and breakfast the next morning. See the signup sheet in the Gathering Area. 

Help Feed the Students, Sunday, November 8: St. Dunstan’s is providing dinner for the St. Francis House community, our Episcopal chaplaincy, on Sunday November 8th. Sign up in the Gathering Area to help out! We are asked to provide food for up to 15 people, and we’re invited to attend worship with the students at 5pm. Rev. Miranda will be in touch to work out whether you want to drop off your food Sunday morning, or deliver it yourself. The students thank you!

 THE WEEK AHEAD…

Needed – Ushers for the 2^nd Sunday of the Month: If you are able to help out with ushering on the 2^nd Sunday of the month, or even just occasionally, please let Pamela in the office know. Thanks!

 Left Unsaid: Remembering our Beloved Dead at Sandbox Worship, Thursday, October 29, 5:30pm: Maybe there’s something you didn’t have a chance to say. Maybe you thought you’d said it all, but as the years pass, you’ve discovered more. Come for an evening framed in prayer, a space to speak the words you want to say to one of your loved ones who has gone on before, as we anticipate honoring our beloved dead on All Saints Day (Nov. 1). After worship, we’ll share a simple meal. All are welcome. Questions? Talk with Rev. Miranda.

Makers’ Guild, FRIDAY, Oct. 30, 1 – 3pm: Everyone who enjoys working with their hands is invited. We will get acquainted with our church’s new-to-us digital cutter, and start preparing some craft materials for our Black Friday Craft-In event (Nov. 27). You can also bring your own holiday crafting projects to show off and work on – or bring your holiday crafting dilemmas and we can brainstorm together! Friends are welcome too.

All Saints’ Day, Sunday, Nov. 1, 10am: We will celebrate this holy day with an opportunity to remember the faithful departed; renew our baptismal vows; and, enjoy kids dressed as famous saints at our 10am All-Ages Worship.

“Holy Dying: Advance Planning from a Christian Perspective,” Sunday, Nov. 1, 9am: All are welcome to a conversation about end-of-life issues from a spiritual and practical perspective.

Backpack Snack Prep, Sunday, November 1, 11:30am: The people of St. Dunstan’s are invited to help prepare “Backpack Snack Packs” to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks available over the weekend, following the 10am service.

Webcast of the Installation of the Rt. Rev. Michael B. Curry as the 27th Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, Sunday, Nov. 1, following the 10am service: We plan to turn on the livestream of the service in our Meeting Room, as soon as our own liturgy concludes. Bishop Curry, currently Bishop of the Diocese of North Carolina, is the first African-American to be elected Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church. On-demand video after the event will be available at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5YZtmFkNyU

SUNDAY….

The Rev. John Rasmus is our preacher on Sunday, October 18. Father John is a priest associate of this parish, having retired to Madison after serving in the Diocese of Eau Claire.

Words in Season Poetry Performance: Over coffee hour on Sunday, we’ll hear some poems performed by members of the parish. Watch for the next Words in Season event if you’d like to get involved next time!

THE HUNGER WEEKS: October 18^th is Bread for the World Sunday! This year the focus is on federal support of Child Nutrition, especially the WIC program. At 9:00 am, between services, further information about these nutritional programs will be presented in the Chapel, and there will also be a chance to discuss church groups’ work to influence public policy. Following the 10:00 am service, those wanting to write their Congressional representatives will meet in the Chapel to write their letters. Further information, writing materials and sample letters will be provided.

THE HUNGER WEEKS: CROP Walk for Hunger, Sunday, October 18: We have a great team gathered for this year’s CROP Walk! All money raised is used to fight hunger and a percentage of the money stays right here in Dane County being distributed to the food pantries. You can write a check to support our walkers, with CROP on the memo line, and put it in the offering plate. Thanks for all your support!

Sunday School, Sunday, October 18, 10am: Our 3-5 year old class will be learning about the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, while our 6 – 10 year old class will talk about finding greatness in serving others.

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

Evening Eucharist (BCP), Sunday, October 18, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. We use the Book of Common Prayer for this liturgy. Our seasonal worship books are based on the prayerbook, but if you miss holding the little red book, you may enjoy attending these bimonthly services.

Younger Adults Meet-up at the Vintage, Sunday, October 18, 7pm: The younger adults of St. Dunstan’s are invited to join us for conversation and the beverage of your choice, at the Vintage Brewpub on South Whitney Way. Friends and partners welcome too.

 St. Dunstan’s Finances At a Glance: As we approach our fall Giving Campaign, our church finances should be clear to all members. Take a look at our display in the Gathering Area. More detailed financial reports are available on request; speak with Rev. Miranda or a vestry member, or call the church office (238-2781).

THE WEEK AHEAD…

Vestry meeting, Wednesday, October 21, 6:45pm. Any members are welcome to attend.

Giving Campaign Kickoff & Fall Talent Show, Sunday, Oct. 25, 11:30 – 1pm: Our fall Giving Campaign starts with a Talent Show, at which members of St. Dunstan’s will share their skills. A light lunch will be served. If you’d like to contribute to the performances or gallery, sign up by Sunday, October 18!

Left Unsaid: Remembering our Beloved Dead at Sandbox Worship, Thursday, October 29, 5:30pm: Maybe there’s something you didn’t have a chance to say. Maybe you thought you’d said it all, but as the years pass, you’ve discovered more. Come for an evening framed in prayer, a space to speak the words you want to say to one of your loved ones who has gone on before, as we anticipate honoring our beloved dead on All Saints Day (Nov. 1). After worship, we’ll share a simple meal. All are welcome.

Makers’ Guild, FRIDAY, Oct. 30, 1 – 3pm: Everyone who enjoys working with their hands is invited. We will get acquainted with our church’s new-to-us digital cutter, and start preparing craft materials for our Black Friday Craft-In event (Nov. 27). You can also bring your own holiday crafting projects to show off and work on – or bring your holiday crafting dilemmas and we can brainstorm together! Friends are welcome too.

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, October 30, 6pm: Join our monthly get-together as we dine at area restaurant and enjoy good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. This month we will meet at the Freehouse Pub, 1902 Parmenter in Middleton.

All Saints’ Day, Sunday, Nov. 1, 10am: We will celebrate this holy day with an opportunity to remember the faithful departed; renewal of our baptismal vows; and, at our10am All-Ages Worship, with kids dressed as famous saints. Come at 9am for our Christian Formation hour: “Holy Dying: Advance Planning from a Christian Perspective,” a conversation about end-of-life issues from a spiritual and practical perspective.

Fall Clean-Up,  Sunday, October 4, 11:30 – 2:00pm: After the 10am service, please stay for a simple lunch (with an overview of tasks to complete while we’re eating), followed by time to work on our grounds. We’ll wrap up by 2pm, but you can leave anytime you’ve completed your tasks.

HUNGER WEEKS: Backpack Snack Pack Prep, Sunday, October 4, 11:30am: The kids and families of St. Dunstan’s are invited to prepare our “Backpack Snack Packs,” to help local school children from low-income households to have nutritious snacks available over the weekend. We’ll meet in the Gathering Area as we kick off the program.

Blessing of the Animals, Sunday, October 4,  4pm: Bring friends of any species to our Blessing of the Animals service!

First Sunday: Birthdays & Anniversaries are honored on the first Sunday of every month. In addition, one of our ministers will offer Healing Prayers for those who wish to receive prayers for themselves or on behalf of others. Finally, every first Sunday, we designate a portion of the cash in our offering plate (and any checks with MOM on the memo line) to Middleton Outreach Ministry, to support their food pantry and its good work fighting hunger in our community.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, October 4, 6pm: Join us for a simple service before the week begins. All are welcome.

Edgewood in the Community, Wednesday, October 7, 10am-1:30pm: Edgewood High School will be sending 20 students to St. Dunstan’s this day to do yard work as part of their community service. If you would like to work with the students and help direct them, please contact the office at (608) 238-2781.

Diocese of Milwaukee Pre-Convention Gathering, Wednesday, October 7, 7:00pm, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on the east side: Anyone who would like to learn more about the life of our Diocese and the larger church is welcome to attend. To read about Convention and the resolutions to be considered, use this link: http://www.diomil.org/about-us/diocesan-convention/

Outreach Committee meeting, Saturday, October 10, 8-10:30am: All are welcome to join our conversations about how St. Dunstan’s can best serve the world with our resources and our hands. We begin with an optional potluck breakfast at 8am.

Sign up for this year’s Parish Talent Show, Sunday, October 25! What will you share? A poem, a song, a dramatic monologue, a dance? A sample of art, craft, tinkering, building, study or science? Group acts are encouraged.

THE HUNGER WEEKS, OCTOBER 4 – 18, 2015  In the first weeks of October we are invited to respond to the needs of our neighbors, locally and globally: by packing snacks for hungry kids (Backpack Snack Pack kickoff, October 4); learning more about poverty in Middleton (Outreach Hour, Sunday, October 11); writing letters to our legislators to urge budgeting and policies that address hunger and poverty (Bread for the World Sunday, October 18); and walking to raise money for food programs (CROP Walk, October 18). Participate and support these efforts as you feel moved, as we together strive to follow Jesus who promised to be bread for the world and urged us to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Outreach Hour, Sunday, October 11, 9am: Percy Brown of the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District will talk with us about the face of poverty and hunger in Middleton, and how we might help Middleton to be more fully the “Good Neighbor City.”

Bread for the World Sunday, October 18: We are invited to participate in Bread for the Word’s annual Offering of Letters, to advocate to our politicians for programs that will reduce hunger in the United States and around the world. This year’s legislative focus is child hunger, and especially ongoing funding of the WIC program. Letters will be gathered in next Sunday, October 25. Letters, emails and phone calls are all encouraged, so that a strong Christian voice for the hungry is heard in Washington! Come at 9am for a presentation on Bread’s work and a discussion of Christian advocacy in the public square.

Walkers & Pledges Wanted for CROP Walk for Hunger, Sunday, October 18: This year’s CROP Walk starts at 12:45 at the First Congregational Church downtown. There are 2 routes – one fairly lengthy that goes over to Lake Mendota and one about a mile that goes around Camp Randall. All money raised is used to fight hunger and a percentage of the money stays right here in Dane County being distributed to the food pantries. Would you like to join our team of walkers and raise money to fight hunger? Sign up in the Gathering Area (remember to give us your T-shirt size!) and take a pledge envelope so you can gather pledges in the weeks ahead.

Helping Francine & Family: Thanks to everyone who’s expressed concern and support for Francine and her family, who were the subject of my sermon on September 20. I am very happy to report that Francine and the family are FINALLY in housing! They are optimistic and looking forward to getting settled. If you’d like to help out, you could pick up a Walmart gift card (Francine’s older daughter works there, so it’s convenient for them to shop there) so they can get some furnishings and household goods, and start making their new home feel like home. You can also make a donation to my Rector’s Discretionary Fund for me to use to help Francine as needed – or to help others who may come along down the road. And please, keep your ears open to the issue of affordable housing in Dane County – we need a LOT more of it. Thanks, everyone! – Rev. Miranda

Purple Ribbons for Domestic Abuse Awareness: The purple ribbons on our altar this month remind us to hold in prayer victims, survivors, and perpetrators of domestic abuse. To learn more, explore the website of our local agency, DAIS: abuseintervention.org