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Sermon, July 23

BunnyWind

LORD, you have searched me out and known me;  you know my sitting down and my rising up; you discern my thoughts from afar.

You trace my journeys and my resting-places and are acquainted with all my ways.

Indeed, there is not a word on my lips, but you, O LORD, know it altogether.

You press upon me behind and before  and lay your hand upon me.

Once there was a little bunny who wanted to run away. So he said to his mother, “I am running away.” “If you run away,” said his mother, “I will run after you. For you are my little bunny.”

Where can I go then from your Spirit? where can I flee from your presence?

“If you run after me,” said the little bunny, “I will become a fish in a trout stream, and I will swim away from you.” “If you become a fish in a trout stream,” said his mother, “I will become a fisherman and I will fish for you.”

If I climb up to heaven, you are there.  If I make the grave my bed, you are there also….

“If you become a fisherman,” said the little bunny, “I will become a rock on the mountain, high above you.” “If you become a rock on the mountain high above me,” said his mother, “I will be a mountain climber, and I will climb to where you are.”

Margaret Wise Brown published The Runaway Bunny in 1942. How many people here heard that book in their childhood, or read it to kids in their family? …  How many of you really love it? …. How many of you find it deeply unsettling? …

I haven’t been able to discover, with some casual poking around, whether Brown was intentionally riffing on Psalm 139 or not.  (If you’d like to look at the Prayer book version of the Psalm, instead of the verse setting we sang, it’s on page 794.)  Regardless of whether Brown intended it or not, the parallel is there.  Not just the superficial similarity of content – but Brown nails the emotional ambivalence of being loved so relentlessly.  There’s just no other word for it. Relentless.

Some people who find the book – and the Psalm – unsettling do so because it’s grounded in parent images, and their experience of parenting has not been so great.  Maybe they were parented by someone whose love was conditional, intermittent, or who didn’t have a lot of capacity for love at all,  in which case these images of relentless love may simply feel unrealistic at a deep level.  Maybe they were parented by someone whose love was controlling or manipulative, in which case these images of relentless love might feel realistic in the worst possible way. People whose experiences of human parenting have been deeply flawed or damaging may find more solace and hope in other ways to imagine God, of which there are many.

But God as the persistent Mama Bunny is emotionally ambivalent even for people like me, who have been loved well by their parents and first family. Accept the premise that the Parent in storybook and psalm is a good parent, who knows and loves the child deeply and desires the child’s wellbeing.  This is still a complicated little story.

The child – the bunny and the Psalmist – wants to run away. Seeks distance, space, freedom, autonomy. And the Parent – God, our Mama Bunny – says, Fine. Run. Go where you need to go, do what you need to do. But I’ll be there when you stop running.

The line between reassurance and threat is – very unclear.  Our prayer book Psalter renders verse 4 of the Psalm this way: “You press upon me behind and before.” That verb in Hebrew is “besiege.”  Like someone surrounding a city to conquer it.  You besiege me on all sides, God. No wonder the Psalmist goes on to say, How can I run away from you? Where can I go to escape this Presence, this scrutiny? …

I know that feeling, the hot prickly tight feeling of the push-pull between attachment and autonomy.  I think everyone who’s been either a child or a parent knows that feeling. The feeling when you run to your room and slam the door, and sit in there alternately hating your parents and hoping they’ll come check on you. The feeling when your child runs to their room and slams the door, and you stand there letting your blood pressure come down, remembering to breathe, remembering that the reason that little monster can make you so angry is because you love them so freaking much. And eventually, once you can trust yourself, once you’ve found one true, kind thing to say, you go knock on their door, and ask if you can come in.

It’s hard to know someone that well, as well as you know your child. Your parent. Your spouse. Your sibling or best friend. It hurts to know and love someone deeply, and see them struggling – dealing with hardship, or making lousy choices.

It hurts to know someone so well that you understand exactly why something is so hard for her, exactly why he’s making that particular lousy choice. And yet your love and your understanding can’t always save or spare them. The poignancy, the pathos of those moments, when we’re swamped with pity and fear and even anger for someone we love so much, and cannot save from themselves – that poignancy and pathos is one of our purest glimpses into the heart of God. Who knows each of us that well. Who loves each of us that much.

Being deeply known and deeply loved is a huge blessing, compared to any alternative.  But it can feel stifling or overwhelming at times. That’s simply a human truth –  and the source of the impulse to escape, in both storybook and psalm. And yet even in the frustration, the door slamming, the running away,  there is deep trust. That’s why we can afford to struggle, to push away, to shout anger and defiance. Because we know that parent, that friend, will still love us afterwards.  We know there is something unbreakable there. Something steadfast. Something, yes, relentless.

Bunny and Psalmist both come to some resolution. The Psalmist lands at awe and gratitude, towards a God who knew him even when he was being formed in the womb, who numbered his days before his life began. The bunny ends at resignation, at acceptance: Aw, shucks. The dialogue between mother and child seems to defuse whatever conflict sparked the child’s initial desire to run away. Mother and child are reconciled, and carrots are shared, because the mother’s love was bigger than the child’s anger.

This morning we will baptize baby B, naming her as a member of God’s one, holy, catholic and apostolic church, and affirming her as a child of God. B is blessed with a human family that loves her deeply, with parents and brothers and a sister who will always have her back, who will honor her growth and need for self-determination, even as they continue hold her in safety and steadfast love. I hope the church will be another such family for her, and for all the children growing up among us.

But human families and human love are finite and imperfect. Sometimes parents aren’t equipped to love the way a child needs. Sometimes children run farther than a parent can reach.  Sometimes a person goes through a season in life in which it feels like there’s no person that can give them that fierce, trustworthy, unbreakable love we all need.

But there is a Love that we will never wear out, never outrun, never outlive. There is a Love that will be the wind that blows us where we need to go, the tree that we fly home to. There’s a Love that is beside us in our darkest nights, that goes before us even into the depths of the grave. That is the Love in whose name we name B today, the Love that will encompass her growing, seeking, and striving, all the days of her life.

Sermons, Stories

Sermon, July 9

Children’s sermon

Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Who knows what a yoke is? … [show pictures] Something an animal wears when it’s working, pulling or carrying a heavy load. It’s not fun. It’s hard and uncomfortable.

So why is Jesus talking about yokes? Well, he’s not talking about yokes LITERALLY, he’s talking about yokes FIGURATIVELY.

Jesus was one of the Jewish people, God’s first people, the people Israel. The Jewish people and their faith had existed for a couple of thousand years already by the time Jesus was born. Their holy book was the first part of our holy book: the Torah, the five books of the Law, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. And in those books there were 613 commandments: Laws or rules God gave God’s people about how they should live. You know some of those laws as the Ten Best Ways. But there were lots of others too!  They covered things like special holy festivals, foods they shouldn’t eat, how they should treat the land, business deals, and keeping the day of rest to honor God.

613 is a lot of laws. And by Jesus’ time, there were many religious teachers who had studied the Torah deeply, and decided which part of the Law was the most important. Those teachers, called rabbis, would tell their followers, THIS is the way to follow our faith, THESE are the most important practices. And it would be different – different rabbis would put importance on different practices, because of how they understood God and the Torah.  And people called that the rabbi’s “yoke.” The rabbi’s teaching about how people should live in God’s ways, which of those 613 laws they should focus on – that was the rabbi’s “yoke,” the burden of faithfulness they put on their followers.

Now, Jesus was God’s Son, but he was also a rabbi – a person who knows the Scriptures deeply and teaches people how to follow them. Once someone came to Jesus to ask him which commandments he thinks are most important. He’s treating Jesus like a rabbi; he’s basically asking him, Rabbi, what is your yoke? And Jesus says, Love God with your whole self, and love your neighbor as much as you love yourself.

That’s Jesus’s yoke. That’s the heart of the law, for Jesus and those who want to follow him. The Sabbath and particular foods and so on aren’t a big deal. This is the heart of it all: Love God, love your neighbor. So this is Jesus’ yoke, his teaching as a rabbi.  When he says, Come to me, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light, THIS is what he means. He means, If you take me as your rabbi and follow me, this is what I ask you to: Love God, and love your neighbor as you love yourself.

Now, is it EASY to love God and love your neighbor, all the time? With your whole heart? (No!….) So why would Jesus say, My yoke is easy and my burden is light? Well, I think one thing he means is, it’s SIMPLE. Jesus’ yoke is not complicated. Other rabbis might have given their followers much more complicated, difficult sets of rules to follow. With Jesus’ yoke, you have to think about it and live it out every day; but it’s not hard to remember that we’re supposed to love God and love other people. So it is simple. 

For another thing, “easy” might not be the right word. Remember Jesus didn’t speak English. He spoke Aramaic, and this part of the Bible was first written down in Greek, and then it was translated into English. So “easy” might really not be the right word. I looked up the Greek word a little bit to see what it means. And it doesn’t mean “easy” like, oh, it’s a snap. Like “Easy as falling of a log.” The Greek word – chrestos – means something more like, appropriate, manageable. Something it’s reasonable to ask you to do. It also means helpful and kind. I like the idea that Jesus is asking us to live in a way that is helpful and kind.

So we could hear Jesus saying, My yoke, my way following God, is manageable, and helpful, and kind. It’s not supposed to be impossible. It’s supposed to be something you can remember easily and carry in your heart, and try to follow, day by day.

Grownups’ Sermon

Now, I’d like to say a few words about our Genesis story.

Our lectionary readings this summer take us through the great stories of Genesis, the beginning of God’s covenant with humanity. Last Sunday, with our 4th of July readings, we skipped an important chapter: the binding of Isaac.

When I said I didn’t want to write a sermon on vacation, I DEFINITELY didn’t want to write a sermon on one of the harder stories in the Old Testament. – at least one of the hardest ones the lectionary gives us! …  But instead of taking opportunity to ignore it, I’m going back to it, a little bit, today.

I know the story of the Binding of Isaac is a least favorite for some of you, and I don’t blame you; it’s an awful story. Why would God promise Abraham and Sarah a son, fulfill their deep and lifelong hopes with a baby, and then order Abraham to kill the child to prove his devotion to God? The fact that God, at the last possible moment, stops Abraham and tells him to sacrifice a ram instead, doesn’t fix the story at all. It just makes God seem manipulative and capricious.

I’ve spent some time digging into how people of faith, both Christians and Jews, have made sense of this difficult story over the ages. And while I don’t think there’s any way to tie a pretty bow on it, I do have a few thoughts.

I think one of the big challenges in our engagement with this text is that there is a huge gulf between our cultural and religious world, and the world of the text’s original audience. I believe that one of the core issues being worked out here is that the religion of Israel, the religion of Yahweh, did NOT demand child-sacrifice.

Some of the religions practiced by neighboring peoples DID sacrifice children, so this was a really important line to draw, early in the story of Yahweh’s covenant relationship with Abraham and his descendants. And as you can imagine, that was a BIG deal for the Israelites. To them, this story said, This God DOES NOT want you to kill your children. To US, this story says, God might play weird head games with you about killing your children! So we are just a long way from the people who needed this story. I don’t know what to do about that, besides remind us about it.

Another thing I think is important to say about this text – and about other stories from Scripture in which awful things happen – is that the text does not think this is OK. That’s why I don’t want to try to talk you out of your revulsion: the AUTHOR of the text wants you to be revolted. I am certain of that. Because the story emphasizes how much Abraham loves his son; and because of the moment in the story when little Isaac looks up at his father and asks, “Father, where is the ram for the sacrifice?” If a modern author wrote that scene, we would understand that they were trying to elicit our gut response to the complete terrible wrongness of what is happening here. So is the author of this text.  I am sure of it. 

And I’d say that the same applies to a lot of the more cruel and horrific stories in the Hebrew Bible. The voice of the author doesn’t think those things are OK. Again, if we read a modern novel about the horrors of World War II, we know that the fact that the author describes those events doesn’t mean they approve of them. But when we read about dismemberments and mass executions in the Bible, we think, Oh, because it’s in the Bible, that must mean it’s OK with God and with the people who wrote about it.

I don’t know how much of that is because the lectionary gives us the Biblical text in little choppy pieces that make it hard to understand what’s really going on, and how much of it is because of our modernist bias that makes it hard for us to recognize that the people who compiled and edited the Hebrew Scriptures were actually pretty damn astute. But next time you read the Binding of Isaac or another awful story from Scripture, try reading it from the assumption that the person who wrote it down also thought it was horrible, and see where that leads you.

Which brings me to the final thing I want to say: The Binding of Isaac is part of a longer arc of story, and much of its meaning is tied up in those longer narrative arcs. There’s a narrative context that sets up this story: Abraham and Sarah are elderly and childless; they long for a son; God promises a son, if they will trust God and enter a new covenant; there’s the whole Hagar and Ishmael story; and so on. And the narrative continues beyond the binding of Isaac. The lesson we have today, about Rebecca, is in many ways the resolution of Isaac’s story.

Isaac walks away from Mount Moriah, from the Binding story, with his relationship with his father broken. The text of Genesis 22 has Abraham leave the mountain alone. It doesn’t say what Isaac did, but he’s not there. And just a couple of verses after the end of the Binding story, Sarah, Isaac’s mother, dies. Jewish interpreters of scripture have long assumed that Sarah died because she heard what her husband, Abraham, had done.

Whether her death was immediate or not, the text DOES imply that Abraham was not living with Sarah when she died. Abraham comes from somewhere else to mourn her, and to negotiate buying a piece of land to bury her. (Read the bargaining scene in chapter 23 sometime, it’s amazing.)

So the Binding of Isaac shattered this family. Abraham’s relationships with both wife and son were broken, because God asked him to do something unthinkable, and he said yes. At the beginning of chapter 24, anticipating death,  Abraham makes one last bid to provide for – or control? – his estranged son. He makes his servant promise to go find Isaac a wife from his homeland, from among his kin. Even in that scene, Isaac isn’t there. Abraham is doing this for him – or to him? – in his absence.  Imagine a father who did something so awful that his son left home! Moved out, cut off communications! And now on his deathbed that father wants to make sure his son marries the right kind of girl? How welcome do you think that would be?

And yet, and yet – God uses it for good. Abraham’s servant takes his task very seriously. Arriving outside the town of Nahor, he makes his camels kneel down near the well.  He knows that women and young girls will come out to get water in the evening, and he prays: Lord God, let the girl who offers to give me water, and to water my camels – let that girl be the girl you have chosen for Isaac.  And it happens – just so.

Rebecca is young, and lovely, and is distant kin to Abraham. She’s the kind of girl who would get water for a stranger’s camels. And she’s kind of girl who would say Yes to a husband, sight unseen, because it seems to be God’s will … or maybe because she’s desperately bored of her hometown and ready for a change. The text implies, I think, that she was not displeased with her husband when she met him – “Who is that man over there?…” And Isaac loves her, and finds comfort in his wife and his marriage. If a friend told you, ‘My new wife really fills the hole in my life that my mother left,’ you might worry about that a little bit – but you’d also understand. Isaac was alone, and grieving. With no one to care for him, or for him to care for. Rebecca does fill that hole. His marriage, his family, comfort him, and give him a fresh start, after the brokenness of his family of origin.

These chapters of Genesis show us broken relationships in a family; grief at the loss of a parent;  solace and hope in a new relationship. Father Tom gave us a image last week: God’s story; my story; one story. It puts me in mind of my favorite saying about reading: We read to know that we are not alone. Books can tell us that other people have shared our experiences. And when we find our experiences echoed in Scripture, we know that our experiences aren’t just part of other human stories; they’re part of God’s story. That’s why even in the darkest or saddest stories of Scripture, we may find a glimmer of grace.

Announcements

Announcements, September 14

THIS WEEKEND…

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, September 17: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Sunday School, Sunday, September 17, 10am: This Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will explore the story of the Flood and the Ark, while our Elementary classes will continue exploring God’s grace present in Creation.

Spirituality of Parenting Lunch, Sunday, September 17, 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.

Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee Haiti Project Fundraiser, Verona, Sunday, September 17, 1-4pm: Come to the Wisconsin Brewing Company at 1079 American Way in Verona to enjoy live music, shop for Haitian art and jewelry, and to help support our diocesan partnership with St. Mark’s School in Haiti. Suggested donation of $20 includes one free beverage ticket.  If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, go to https://haitiproject.org/donate/

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

Big Blue Bibles: We are trying out a new way for kids to follow along in worship. Take a Blue Bible from the pile on the way into church. Each Bible has a bookmark that indicates where you can find a storybook version of one of the day’s assigned readings. Kids can read along at their own pace. Rev. Miranda welcomes feedback or further ideas!

This year’s Parish Talent Show will be Sunday, October 22! The Talent Show follows the 10am liturgy; lunch is included. What will you share? A poem, a song, a dramatic monologue, a unique skill, a dance? A sample of art, craft, tinkering, building, study or science? Group acts are encouraged. Start planning now, and look for a signup in late September!

Sanctuary Task Force: Hospitality towards others is one of the clearest mandates in Scripture. Rev. Miranda is gathering a small group to discern together about how that call speaks to us in this time, by learning more about the new Dane Sanctuary network. If you’re interested, contact Rev. Miranda at  238-2781.

Altar Flowers: fall dates available! We are back to our regular Altar Flower process: flowers will be ordered from the church’s florist. Honor a loved one or a special event with altar flowers. Reserve your special date by writing your dedication on the sign-up sheet. Suggested donation is $35. Write “flowers” on the memo line of your check or on envelope containing cash, or donate online at donate.stdunstans.com.

THE WEEK AHEAD & BEYOND…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, September 22, 6pm: Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. This month we will meet at Nani’s, 518 Grand Canyon Drive in Madison. For more information, please contact Kathy Whitt  or Debra Martinez.

Outreach Committee Meeting, Saturday 23, 8-10am: 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.

Last Sunday All-Ages Worship, Sunday, September 24, 10am: Our last Sunday worship is intended especially to help kids (and grownups who are new to our pattern of worship) to engage and participate fully. NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship. 

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, September 24, 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.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, September 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 to help out. To learn more, talk with Rose Mueller.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, September 30, 10am-12pm: Since the election of Scott Walker, Wisconsin has been ground zero for debates about the appropriate role of government in the wake of the Great Recession. With The Politics of Resentment, Katherine J. Cramer uncovers an oft-overlooked piece of the puzzle: rural political consciousness and the resentment of the “liberal elite.” Rural voters are distrustful that politicians will respect the distinct values of the communities and allocate a fair share of resources. What can look like disagreements about basic political principles are therefore actually rooted in something even more fundamental: who we are as people and how closely a candidate’s social identity matches our own. Have a good read.

Blessing of the Animals Service, Sunday, October 1, 3pm: People and creatures are invited to a short service of song, story, and prayer.  Animals should be on a leash or in a carrier. Stuffed animals are welcome as well. Spread the word and invite a friend!

Fall Clean-up Sunday, October 1, 11:30-1pm: Wear your work clothes to church and stay after with 10am service 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 1:30pm, but you can leave any time you’ve completed your tasks.

IN THE COMMUNITY…

PFLAG Madison meeting, Sunday, September 17, 2-4pm at Friends Meeting House at 1704 Roberts Court in Madison: Parents, families, friends and allies with LGBTQ people are welcome to attend the monthly meeting (every 3rd Sunday of the month). This month Andrea Johnson from American Family Insurance will speak to their LGBTQ policies. For more information, go to http://www.pflag-madison.org.

 

Announcements

Announcements, September 7

THIS WEEKEND…

Game Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 8, 6pm: 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!

Wild & Scenic Film Event, September 9, 7-9pm at Mineral Point Opera House, 139 High Street, Mineral Point, Wisconsin: Come and see an evening of films on the environment. Films, ranging from 5-28 minutes, will present a variety of issues facing our world as well as the challenges in responding to them. Advance tickets are $10 online at brownpapertickets.com.  This event is sponsored by Trinity Episcopal Church, Mineral Point.  For more info go to http://www.trinitympt.org/events.html.

Lammastide Festival of Bread, Sunday, September 10: Lammastide is an ancient harvest festival that became a church festival in our mother church, the Church of England. It’s an opportunity to offer the fruits of the growing season thankfully to God. The word means “loaf mass” – it was originally held at the time of year when the first grain ripened enough to be made into fresh loaves of bread. We will celebrate the end of summer together with a Lammastide procession and blessing, and a festive bread-themed Coffee Hour after the 10am service. Bring a loaf of bread – any kind! – or something beautiful from your garden or the farmer’s market: vegetables, fruit, flowers. We will offer our harvest gifts during worship; you can reclaim your produce afterwards.

Big Blue Bibles: Starting this Sunday, we’re trying out a new way for kids to follow along in worship. Take a Blue Bible from the pile on the way into church. Each Bible has a bookmark that indicates where you can find a storybook version of one of the day’s assigned readings. Kids can read along at their own pace. Rev. Miranda welcomes feedback or further ideas!

Sunday School starts again, Sunday, September 10, 10am:  Our Sunday school classes meet on the second and third Sunday of every month, during the first part of the 10am service. We have three classes this year. Our class for 3 year olds through kindergarteners uses the ‘Godly Play’ approach, sharing and reflecting on the central stories of our faith. Our classes for 1st and 2nd graders, and for 3rd through 5th graders, use a curriculum based on the Sunday lectionary, the same Bible lessons we hear in the liturgy that day. They explore those lessons through discussion, art, drama, Lego, and other projects. All kids are welcome to participate!

This year’s Parish Talent Show will be Sunday, October 22! The Talent Show follows the 10am liturgy; lunch is included. What will you share? A poem, a song, a dramatic monologue, a unique skill, a dance? A sample of art, craft, tinkering, building, study or science? Group acts are encouraged. Start planning now, and look for a signup in late September!

Sanctuary Task Force: Hospitality towards others is one of the clearest mandates in Scripture. Rev. Miranda is gathering a small group to discern together about how that call speaks to us in this time, by learning more about the new Dane Sanctuary network. If you’re interested, contact Rev. Miranda at 238-2781.

St. Dunstan’s Care Network Needs List: Sharon Bloodgood is recovering from a traffic accident and is in need of meals, and rides to church and therapy. To see where you can sign up to help, go to our Care Network web page. The easiest way to access it is to go to stdunstans.com and click on the “Fellowship and Learning” tab, and select “Sharing Meals” which will lead you directly to the site. Please contact Shirley Laedlein with any questions.

Helpers Needed – Edgewood in the Community, Wednesday, September 20, 9:30am-2pm: Edgewood High School will be sending 20 students to St. Dunstan’s to do yard work as part of their community service. If you would like to work with a small group of students and help direct them, please email George Ott at . Wheelbarrows and pitchforks are needed too. Thanks!

Altar Flowers: fall dates available! We are back to our regular Altar Flower process: flowers will be ordered from the church’s florist. Honor a loved one or a special event with altar flowers. Reserve your special date by writing your dedication on the sign-up sheet. Suggested donation is $35. Write “flowers” on the memo line of your check or on envelope containing cash, or donate online at donate.stdunstans.com.

THE WEEK AHEAD & BEYOND…

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, September 13, 1:00 – 2:45 PM: A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times.  We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality, and have the quintessentially Anglican writings of Bl. Mother Julian of Norwich at their core.  They are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing.  Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease. We meet the second Wednesday of each month.  For additional information, contact Susan Fiore.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, September 17: Half the cash in our collection plate, and any designated checks will go towards the Rector’s Discretionary Fund this day and on every third Sunday. This fund is a way to quietly help people with direct financial needs, in the parish and the wider community. Please give generously.

Sunday School, Sunday, September 17, 10am: Next Sunday, our 3 year olds to kindergarten class will explore the story of the Flood and the Ark, while our Elementary classes will continue exploring God’s grace present in Creation.

Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee Haiti Project Fundraiser, Verona, Sunday, September 17, 1-4pm: Come to the Wisconsin Brewing Company at 1079 American Way in Verona to enjoy live music by award-winning Haitian musician Mona Augustin, enjoy microbrews, shop for Haitian art and jewelry, and to help support our diocesan partnership with St. Mark’s School in Haiti. Suggested donation of $20 includes one free beverage ticket. We would love a critical mass of supporters to attend and hope you will invite your friends out to enjoy this event!  If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, go to https://haitiproject.org/donate/

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

Young Adult Meetup at the Vintage, Sunday, September 24, 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.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, September 30, 10am-12pm: Since the election of Scott Walker, Wisconsin has been ground zero for debates about the appropriate role of government in the wake of the Great Recession. With The Politics of Resentment, Katherine J. Cramer uncovers an oft-overlooked piece of the puzzle: rural political consciousness and the resentment of the “liberal elite.” Rural voters are distrustful that politicians will respect the distinct values of the communities and allocate a fair share of resources. What can look like disagreements about basic political principles are therefore actually rooted in something even more fundamental: who we are as people and how closely a candidate’s social identity matches our own. Have a good read.

 

Announcements

Announcements, August 31

THIS WEEKEND…

Camp-Out Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 1, 5:30pm: For those who have been meaning to camp out all summer – or want to give it a try in an easy setting (with flush toilets available!) – or who camp all the time and can share tips with the rest of us! We’ll share a simple potluck supper (hot dogs and marshmallows, etc., provided), fellowship around the fire pit, singing, and Compline prayers at dusk. You can spend the night, or just come for the evening and then go home to your nice warm bed. Friends welcome!

Cupcake Decorating Contest! Friday, September 1: Decorate a cupcake with an image or theme from a Bible story! Deborah Sproule invites us into creative and delicious work. All ages are invited to participate and teamwork is encouraged. Bring edible decorations. Frosting, interesting sprinkles or candy shapes, pretzel sticks – there are many possibilities! (Please avoid peanuts – thanks!).Cupcake decorating will take place at the Camp-Out, Friday night. You can bring decorative elements already prepared if you like, but you don’t have to. Cupcakes will be provided and decorating elements will be on hand.

“Good Books” Book Group Meeting for Good Omens, Sunday, September 3, 9am: We’ll have donuts, coffee, juice, and conversation about our final summer read, Good Omens. Bring your book, with favorite or perplexing pages dog-eared!

Anniversary and Birthday blessings and Healing prayers will be given this Sunday, September 3 as is our usual first Sunday custom.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, September 3: This Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Here are the current top-ten most needed items: canned chicken, pork (meat other than fish); shelf-stable dairy/non-dairy beverages; baking supplies/boxed mixes; ketchup, mayonnaise, pancake syrup; meals in a can/soup; heart-healthy cooking oil; whole grains: rice, quinoa, barley; toilet paper/paper towels; nut butters, other than peanut butter (allergies); size 5 or 6 diapers. Thank you for your generous support!

Blessing of the Backpacks, Sunday, September 3: Students (and teachers!) of all ages are invited to bring backpacks, laptops, etc., to be blessed in this service, as we pray for our schools and universities. Come between 9 and 10am to help decorate this year’s backpack tags. Blessed backpack tags will be available on Sunday, Sept. 10, as well.

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

Choir Kick-Off Party, Monday, Sept. 4: Interested in being part of the Music Ministry at St. Dunstan’s? Maybe can’t be in the choir this year but would like to connect with us anyway? Join us for the Choir Kickoff Party! September 4, Labor Day, 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Sauk Creek Condominium’s Club House, several doors down from 7535 Widgeon Way. Bring a dish to pass if you are able. Grilled meat and other protein products and beverages provided. Bring your swim suit if you like. Hosted by Chris and Marian Barnes.

St. Dunstan’s Care Network Needs List: Sharon Bloodgood is recovering from a traffic accident and is in need of meals, and rides to church and therapy. To see where you can sign up to help, go our Care Network web page. The easiest way to access it is to go to stdunstans.com and click on the “Fellowship and Learning” tab, and select “Sharing Meals” which will lead you directly to the site. Please contact Shirley Laedlein with any questions. 

Helpers Needed – Edgewood in the Community, Wednesday, September 20, 9:30am-2pm: Edgewood High School will be sending 20 students to St. Dunstan’s to do yard work as part of their community service. If you would like to work with a small group of students and help direct them, please email George Ott at . Wheelbarrows and pitchforks are needed too. Thanks!

 Sponsor a Bible for our Sunday School Students! This year we’d like to offer our 3rd through 5th grade Sunday school students their own study Bibles to keep in the classroom and use this year and beyond. As the class explores our focus texts from the lectionary, they can look them up in their own Bible, underline or write notes in the margins, and start to feel like the Bible is theirs to study, grapple with, and love. We ask a $25 donation to be a Bible Sponsor. You may write a dedication in the Bible you sponsor, if you wish! We hope to buy 10 Bibles, to be ready for current and future students. You can make your gift online at donate.stdunstans.com or by cash or check with “Student Bible” on the memo line or envelope. Thanks for supporting our young disciples!

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

Parking Lot Reconstruction at Middleton Outreach Facilities: The MOM regular facilities will be closed September 2-22 for parking lot reconstruction. Case managers will see clients at a temporary off-site location, the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District Service Center at 7106 South Ave., Middleton, and Mobile Food Pantries will also be available at this location on specific days. All current MOM clients are welcome to shop for food with no appointments necessary.

THE WEEK AHEAD & BEYOND…

Game Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 8, 6pm: 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!

Wild & Scenic Film Event, September 9, 7-9pm at Mineral Point Opera House, 139 High Street, Mineral Point, Wisconsin: Come and see an evening of films on the environment. Films, ranging from 5-28 minutes, will present a variety of issues facing our world as well as the challenges in responding to them. Advance tickets are $10 online at brownpapertickets.com.  For more info go to http://www.trinitympt.org/events.html.

Lammastide Festival of Bread, Sunday, September 10: Lammastide is an ancient harvest festival that became a church festival in our mother church, the Church of England. It’s an opportunity to offer the fruits of the growing season thankfully to God. The word means “loaf mass” – it was originally held at the time of year when the first grain ripened enough to be made into fresh loaves of bread. We will celebrate the end of summer together with a Lammastide procession and blessing, and a festive bread-themed Coffee Hour after the 10am service. Bring a loaf of bread – any kind! – or something beautiful from your garden or the farmer’s market: vegetables, fruit, flowers. We will offer our harvest gifts during worship; you can reclaim your produce afterwards.

Sunday School starts again, Sunday, September 10, 10am:  Our Sunday school classes meet on the second and third Sunday of every month, during the first part of the 10am service. We have three classes this year. Our class for 3 year olds through kindergarteners uses the ‘Godly Play’ approach, sharing and reflecting on the central stories of our faith. Our classes for 1st and 2nd graders, and for 3rd through 5th graders, use a curriculum based on the Sunday lectionary, the same Bible lessons we hear in the liturgy that day. They explore those lessons through discussion, art, drama, Lego, and other projects. All kids are welcome to participate!

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, September 13, 1:00 – 2:45 PM: A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times.  We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality, and have the quintessentially Anglican writings of Bl. Mother Julian of Norwich at their core.  They are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing.  Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease. We meet the second Wednesday of each month.  For additional information, contact Susan Fiore.

Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee Haiti Project Fundraiser, Verona, Sunday, September 17, 1-4pm: Come to the Wisconsin Brewing Company at 1079 American Way in Verona to enjoy live music by award-winning Haitian musician Mona Augustin, enjoy microbrews, shop for Haitian art and jewelry, and to help support our diocesan partnership with St. Mark’s School in Haiti. Suggested donation of $20 includes one free beverage ticket. We would love a critical mass of supporters to attend and hope you will invite your friends out to enjoy this event!  If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, go to https://haitiproject.org/donate/

 

 

 

Announcements

Announcements, August 24

The Bishop’s Statement on Charlottesville, Virginia: The bishop of the Diocese of Milwaukee, the Rt. Rev. Steven Miller, has written a letter to the people of the diocese in response to recent events. He writes, “This has been a difficult reflection to write… I know well the beautiful grounds of the University of Virginia, a community dedicated to knowledge and education that became the marching grounds for people spewing hate. I have to admit that I find the whole thing unbelievable and I keep wondering how did it come to this.” Copies of his complete letter are available in the Gathering Area.

THIS WEEKEND…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, August 25, 6pm: Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. This month we’ll meet at Via Dolce, 1828 Parmenter Street, in Middleton.  

Memorial Service for Jim Osen, Saturday, August 26, 3pm: Friends of the Osen family and all members of our parish family are invited to this service to celebrate Jim’s life and commend him to God. A light reception will follow the liturgy.

Outreach Meeting, Saturday, August 26, 8-10am: 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.

 Men’s Book Club, Saturday, August 26, 10am: The book is A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. A grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door. He is a curmudgeon, the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars, caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him the bitter neighbor from hell. A fun read and well written.

Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, August 27, 10am: We’ll dive into the story of Moses together, beginning the story of the great journey of God’s people which we’ll follow in our Sunday readings all the way through October.  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. Come at 9:45 to compose our Psalm response for the 10am service! NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, August 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 to learn more, talk with Rose Mueller.

Cupcake Decorating Contest! Decorate a cupcake with an image or theme from a Bible story! Deborah Sproule invites us into creative and delicious work. All ages are invited to participate and teamwork is encouraged. Here’s how to participate:

  1. Bring edible decorations. Frosting, interesting sprinkles or candy shapes, pretzel sticks – there are many possibilities! (Please avoid peanuts – thanks!) Bring items anytime from this Sunday through Friday, Sept. 1.
  2. Come at 9am on Sunday, August 27 to start brainstorming and designing. We’ll start sketching ideas on paper. (Not required for participation, just a fun opportunity!)
  3. Cupcake decorating and judging will take place at the Camp-Out, Friday evening, September 1. You can bring decorative elements already prepared if you like, but you don’t have to. Cupcakes will be provided and decorating elements will be on hand.

St. Dunstan’s Care Network Needs List: Sharon Bloodgood is recovering from a traffic accident and is in need of meals, and rides to church and therapy. To see where you can sign up to help, go our Care Network web page. The easiest way to access it is to go to stdunstans.com and click on the “Fellowship and Learning” tab, and select “Sharing Meals” which will lead you directly to the site. Please contact Shirley Laedlein with any questions. 

Helpers Needed – Edgewood in the Community, Wednesday, September 20, 9:30am-2pm: Edgewood High School will be sending 20 students to St. Dunstan’s to do yard work as part of their community service. If you would like to work with a small group of students and help direct them, please  talk with George Ott. Wheelbarrows and pitchforks are needed too. Thanks!

Sponsor a Bible for our Sunday School Students! This year we’d like to offer our 3rd through 5th grade Sunday school students their own study Bibles to keep in the classroom and use this year and beyond. As the class explores our focus texts from the lectionary, they can look them up in their own Bible, underline or write notes in the margins, and start to feel like the Bible is theirs to study, grapple with, and love. We ask a $25 donation to be a Bible Sponsor. You may write a dedication in the Bible you sponsor, if you wish! We hope to buy 10 Bibles, to be ready for current and future students. You can make your gift online at donate.stdunstans.com or by cash or check with “Student Bible” on the memo line or envelope. Thanks for supporting our young disciples!

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

Coffee Hosts Needed on September 3: Please consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee for more information.

THE WEEK AHEAD & BEYOND…

Camp-Out Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 1, 5:30pm: For those who have been meaning to camp out all summer – or want to give it a try in an easy setting (with flush toilets available!) – or who camp all the time and can share tips with the rest of us! We’ll share a simple potluck supper (hot dogs and marshmallows, etc., provided), fellowship around the fire pit, singing, and Compline prayers at dusk. You can spend the night, or just come for the evening and then go home to your nice warm bed. Friends welcome!

Anniversary and Birthday blessings and Healing prayers will be given next Sunday, September 3 as is our usual first Sunday custom.

MOM Special Offering, Sunday, September 3: Next Sunday, half the cash in our offering plate and any designated checks will be given to Middleton Outreach Ministry’s food pantry. Here are the current top-ten most needed items: canned chicken, pork (meat other than fish); shelf-stable dairy/non-dairy beverages; baking supplies/boxed mixes; ketchup, mayonnaise, pancake syrup; meals in a can/soup; heart-healthy cooking oil; whole grains: rice, quinoa, barley; toilet paper/paper towels; nut butters, other than peanut butter (allergies); size 5 or 6 diapers. Thank you for your generous support!

Blessing of the Backpacks, Sunday, September 3: Students (and teachers!) of all ages are invited to bring backpacks, laptops, etc., to be blessed in this service, as we pray for our schools and universities. Come between 9 and 10am to help decorate this year’s backpack tags. Blessed backpack tags will be available on Sunday, Sept. 10, as well.

 “Good Books” Book Group Meeting for Good Omens, Sunday, September 3, 9am: We’ll have donuts, coffee, juice, and conversation about our final summer read, Good Omens. Bring your book, with favorite or perplexing pages dog-eared!

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

Game Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 8, 6pm: 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!

Lammastide Festival of Bread, Sunday, September 10: Lammastide is an ancient harvest festival that became a church festival in our mother church, the Church of England. It’s an opportunity to offer the fruits of the growing season thankfully to God. The word means “loaf mass” – it was originally held at the time of year when the first grain ripened enough to be made into fresh loaves of bread. We will celebrate the end of summer together with a Lammastide procession and blessing, and a festive bread-themed Coffee Hour after the 10am service. Bring a loaf of bread – any kind! – or something beautiful from your garden or the farmer’s market: vegetables, fruit, flowers. We will offer our harvest gifts during worship; you can reclaim your produce afterwards.

Sunday School starts again, Sunday, September 10, 10am:  Our Sunday school classes meet on the second and third Sunday of every month, during the first part of the 10am service. We have three classes this year. Our class for 3 year olds through kindergarteners uses the ‘Godly Play’ approach, sharing and reflecting on the central stories of our faith.  Our classes for 1st and 2nd graders, and for 3rd through 5th graders, use a curriculum based on the Sunday lectionary, the same Bible lessons we hear in the liturgy that day. They explore those lessons through discussion, art, drama, Lego, and other projects. All kids are welcome to participate!

 Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, September 13, 1:00 – 2:45 PM: A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times.  We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality, and have the quintessentially Anglican writings of Bl. Mother Julian of Norwich at their core.  They are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing.  Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease. We meet the second Wednesday of each month.  For additional information, contact Susan Fiore.

Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee Haiti Project Fundraiser, Verona, Sunday, September 17, 1-4pm: Come to the Wisconsin Brewing Company at 1079 American Way in Verona to enjoy microbrews and to help support our diocesan partnership with St. Mark’s School in Haiti. We would love a critical mass of supporters to attend and hope you will invite your friends out to enjoy the venue, listen to live music, sample brews and food cart delicacies, and shop Haitian art and jewelry. Tickets are $15 at the door. If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, go to https://haitiproject.org/donate/

 

Announcements

Announcements, August 17

THIS WEEKEND…

Guest Preacher, Sunday, August 20: The Rev. Jonathan Melton: Next Sunday, Rev. Miranda will be on vacation. Father Jonathan Melton will celebrate and preach at both the 8am and 10am services. Jonathan is the chaplain at St. Francis House Episcopal Campus Ministry at UW-Madison, just a couple of miles east on University Avenue, and a friend of the parish and many of its members.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, August 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.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, August 20, 6pm: Join us for a simple service as the week begins. All are welcome. 

Cupcake Decorating Contest! Decorate a cupcake with an image or theme from a Bible story! Deborah Sproule invites us into creative and delicious work. All ages are invited to participate and teamwork is encouraged. Here’s how to participate:

  1. Bring edible decorations. Frosting, interesting sprinkles or candy shapes, pretzel sticks – there are many possibilities! (Please avoid peanuts – thanks!) Bring items anytime from this Sunday through Friday, Sept. 1.
  2. Come at 9am on Sunday, August 27 to start brainstorming and designing. We’ll start sketching ideas on paper. (Not required for participation, just a fun opportunity!)
  3. Cupcake decorating and judging will take place at the Camp-Out, Friday evening, September 1. You can bring decorative elements already prepared if you like, but you don’t have to. Cupcakes will be provided and decorating elements will be on hand.

Youth Group T-Shirts Available: Our Middle School Youth Group is about to start their third season! If you’d like to show your support for the group, we have a limited number of T-shirts available, for a suggested donation of $5. The logo is inspired by the game Betrayal at the House on the Hill, a favorite of the group. Donations can be made by cash, check with “Youth T” on the memo line, or a General Donation with a memo at donate.stdunstans.com.

Sponsor a Bible for our Sunday School Students! This year we’d like to offer our 3rd through 5th grade Sunday school students their own study Bibles to keep in the classroom and use this year and beyond. As the class explores our focus texts from the lectionary, they can look them up in their own Bible, underline or write notes in the margins, and start to feel like the Bible is theirs to study, grapple with, and love. We ask a $25 donation to be a Bible Sponsor. You may write a dedication in the Bible you sponsor, if you wish! We hope to buy 10 Bibles, to be ready for current and future students. You can make your gift online at donate.stdunstans.com or by cash or check with “Student Bible” on the memo line or envelope. Thanks for supporting our young disciples!

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

Coffee Hosts Needed on September 3: Please consider being a coffee host and talk with Janet Bybee for more information.

THE WEEK AHEAD & BEYOND…

Ladies’ Night Out, Friday, August 25, 6pm: Come join us for good food and good conversation among women of all ages from St. Dunstan’s. This month we’ll meet at Via Dolce, 1828 Parmenter Street, in Middleton.  

Memorial Service for Jim Osen, Saturday, August 26, 3pm: Friends of the Osen family and all members of our parish family are invited to this service to celebrate Jim’s life and commend him to God. A light reception will follow the liturgy.

Outreach Meeting, Saturday, August 26, 8-10am: 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.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, August 26, 10am: The book is A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. A grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door. He is a curmudgeon, the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars, caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him the bitter neighbor from hell. A fun read and well written.

Last Sunday Worship, Sunday, August 27, 10am: We’ll dive into the story of Moses together, beginning the story of the great journey of God’s people which we’ll follow in our Sunday readings all the way through October.  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. Come at 9:45 to compose our Psalm response for the 10am service! NOTE: Our 8am service always follows our regular order of worship.

Camp-Out Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 1, 5:30pm: For those who have been meaning to camp out all summer – or want to give it a try in an easy setting (with flush toilets available!) – or who camp all the time and can share tips with the rest of us! We’ll share a simple potluck supper (hot dogs and marshmallows, etc., provided), fellowship around the fire pit, singing, and Compline prayers at dusk. You can spend the night, or just come for the evening and then go home to your nice warm bed. Friends welcome!

Blessing of the Backpacks, Sunday, September 3: Students (and teachers!) of all ages are invited to bring backpacks, laptops, etc., to be blessed in this service, as we pray for our schools and universities. Come between 9 and 10am to help decorate this year’s backpack tags. Blessed backpack tags will be available on Sunday, Sept. 10, as well.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, August 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 to learn more, talk with Rose Mueller.

“Good Books” Book Group Meeting for Good Omens, Sunday, September 3, 9am: We’ll have donuts, coffee, juice, and conversation about our final summer read, Good Omens. Bring your book, with favorite or perplexing pages dog-eared!

Game Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 8, 6pm: 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!

Lammastide Festival of Bread, Sunday, September 10: Lammastide is an ancient harvest festival that became a church festival in our mother church, the Church of England. It’s an opportunity to offer the fruits of the growing season thankfully to God. The word means “loaf mass” – it was originally held at the time of year when the first grain ripened enough to be made into fresh loaves of bread. We will celebrate the end of summer together with a Lammastide procession and blessing, and a festive bread-themed Coffee Hour after the 10am service. Bring a loaf of bread – any kind! – or something beautiful from your garden or the farmer’s market: vegetables, fruit, flowers. We will offer our harvest gifts during worship; you can reclaim your produce afterwards.

Sunday School starts again, Sunday, September 10, 10am:  Our Sunday school classes meet on the second and third Sunday of every month, during the first part of the 10am service. We have three classes this year. Our class for 3 year olds through kindergarteners uses the ‘Godly Play’ approach, sharing and reflecting on the central stories of our faith.  Our classes for 1st and 2nd graders, and for 3rd through 5th graders, use a curriculum based on the Sunday lectionary, the same Bible lessons we hear in the liturgy that day. They explore those lessons through discussion, art, drama, Lego, and other projects. All kids are welcome to participate!

Madison-Area Julian Gathering, Wednesday, September 13, 1:00 – 2:45 PM: A Julian Gathering is open to everyone and you are welcome at all times.  We support each other in the practice of contemplative prayer and contemplative spirituality, and have the quintessentially Anglican writings of Bl. Mother Julian of Norwich at their core.  They are for all who want to deepen their life of faith through the practice of contemplative prayer, for beginners as well as those already practicing.  Each meeting includes time for contemplative prayer and reading/discussion of Bl. Julian’s revelations.  Don’t worry if you’ve never practiced silent prayer before, we can set your mind at ease. We meet the second Wednesday of each month.  For additional information, contact Susan Fiore.

 

Finances

Midyear financial report

St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church Mid-Year Financial Report

Based on January through June finances 

Overview

The parish’s finances are healthy and most lines in our budget are on target for this point in the year, with only minor exceptions.

Income 

Income is up and ahead of budget by about $9,000. The areas reflecting this increase are Feast Day Income (offerings given at Easter and Christmas, which are over budget by $1,235) and Rent Income from groups and events that use our main buildings occasionally. That budget line is currently $375 over the anticipated annual budget. The Pledge Income is ahead of budget, reflecting strong giving into the summer. This line usually ends the year close to budget, which means people tend to give what they said they would give; thank you!

Expenses

Overall, most expense lines are on target or only slightly above or below their midyear budgeted amount.

Many costs can be managed to be with budget at year end but are not distributed evenly during the year. Some budget lines that reflect this are Formation, Other Ministries, Building Repairs and Maintenance, the Rector’s expenses lines, and Administration. All seem to be on track or manageable to end the year close to budget. Fellowship/Kitchen may exceed its budget as we continue to do more, particularly extending our formation programs. Office Supplies may end the year over budget.  The Rector’s Continuing Education line is also over budget for the year, but no additional expenditures are anticipated.

Some overages, such as Outreach giving, the Rector’s Health & Disability premiums, and lay staff salaries, are simply an artifact of when payments or grants are made relative to the calendar, and will resolve by the end of the year.

Altar and worship expenses are under budget. This may be partially due to the investment in communion wine that we made last year, which means we will not have to re-order this year. The Event Fund, a new line last year, is below budget, but is used more heavily in the second half of the year for Evening Bible Camp and the Craft-In in November.

Any expense lines which do end the year in deficit (i.e. over the annual budget amount) will likely be covered by enough other accounts finishing under budget. In addition, the Balance Sheet shows that there are funds (Retained Earnings) from previous years’ budgets that can be used to cover small deficits in current Net Income.

In summary, if our giving and spending continue on track, we expect to end this fiscal year on a sound footing, thanks to your generosity and faithfulness.

Designated Funds

St. Dunstan’s maintains many “Designated Funds” which do not show on an income and expense report. These are investments and gifts given for specific purposes.

We have investments with the Diocesan Trustees of Funds and Endowments. The current balance there is $196,693, divided into two designated funds. One of these is the fund that generates the income for our outreach grant program. The other is an unrestricted investment. We have used these funds to make outreach grants and to fund the preparations for a capital campaign. In practice, we have often used our cash flow to temporarily cover these expenditures without having to withdraw funds from these investments, leaving as much there as possible earning dividends.

These funds represent money that St. Dunstan’s uses in its various ministries beyond the day to day operating of the parish. Some of the funds you may be familiar with which are outside our operating budget are the Middleton Outreach Ministry, the Middleton Outreach Pantry, memorial funds for individuals and general memorials, the Discretionary Fund, and part of our rent income is designated for capital expenses for our facilities. There are others: the organ fund, music contributions, birthday offerings, the Haiti project, the United Thank Offering and most recently our very successful Diaper Drive. So far this year $26,402 in contributions have been made to all our assorted designated funds. All of these funds are listed on our balance sheet and a full report is given to the vestry at least every quarter.

Copies of our detailed finances are available for review by members of the parish at any time. Ask one of our Co-Treasurers, Val McAuliffe and Sue Lloyd; Rev. Miranda; or contact the church office.

Announcements

Announcements, August 10

THIS WEEKEND…

The Book of Jonah, Sunday August 13, 9 am: Jonah: three parts burlesque, one part parable-with-teeth. Many approaches to the book that are productive; we’ll watch how God-talk and Divine patience/humility intersect. Read the book ahead of time; it’s only four chapters long, and will take you twenty minutes. Fr. Tom McAlpine will facilitate.

School Supplies for Middleton Outreach Ministry: Deadline, Sunday, August 13! Although we still have plenty of summer left to enjoy, the ads are encouraging us to think about “Back to School!” And, that means it is time to think about school supply donations for the MOM Backpack program. You are always so generous with your contributions, giving students the chance to have the needed items to succeed in school! Please check the Gathering Space for the collection box and lists of most needed items. THANK YOU!!!

Youth Group T-Shirts Available: Our Middle School Youth Group is about to start their third season! If you’d like to show your support for the group, we have a limited number of T-shirts available, for a suggested donation of $5. The logo is inspired by the game Betrayal at the House on the Hill, a favorite of the group. Donations can be made by cash, check with “Youth T” on the memo line, or a General Donation with a memo at donate.stdunstans.com.

Sponsor a Bible for our Sunday School Students! This year we’d like to offer our 3rd through 5th grade Sunday school students their own study Bibles to keep in the classroom and use this year and beyond. As the class explores our focus texts from the lectionary, they can look them up in their own Bible, underline or write notes in the margins, and start to feel like the Bible is theirs to study, grapple with, and love. We ask a $25 donation to be a Bible Sponsor. You may write a dedication in the Bible you sponsor, if you wish! We hope to buy 10 Bibles, to be ready for current and future students. You can make your gift online at donate.stdunstans.com or by cash or check with “Student Bible” on the memo line or envelope. Thanks for supporting our young disciples!

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

THE WEEK AHEAD & BEYOND…

Vestry Meeting, Wednesday, August 16, 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.

Guest Preacher, Sunday, August 20: The Rev. Jonathan Melton: Next Sunday, Father Jonathan Melton will celebrate and preach at both the 8am and 10am services. Jonathan is the chaplain at St. Francis House Episcopal Campus Ministry at UW-Madison, just a couple of miles east on University Avenue, and a friend of the parish and many of its members.

Rector’s Discretionary Fund Offering, Sunday, August 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.

Evening Eucharist, Sunday, August 20, 6pm: Join us for a simple service as the week begins. All are welcome.

Outreach Meeting, Saturday, August 26, 8-10am: 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.

Men’s Book Club, Saturday, August 26, 10am: The book is A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. A grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door. He is a curmudgeon, the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars, caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him the bitter neighbor from hell. A fun read and well written.

Grace Shelter Dinner, Sunday, August 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.

Camp-Out Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 1, 5:30pm: For those who have been meaning to camp out all summer – or want to give it a try in an easy setting (with flush toilets available!) – or who camp all the time and can share tips with the rest of us! We’ll share a simple potluck supper (hot dogs and marshmallows, etc., provided), fellowship around the fire pit, singing, and Compline prayers at dusk. You can spend the night, or just come for the evening and then go home to your nice warm bed. Friends welcome!

Game Night at St. Dunstan’s, Friday, September 8, 6pm: 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!

Sunday School starts again, Sunday, September 10, 10am:  Our Sunday school classes meet on the second and third Sunday of every month, during the first part of the 10am service. We have three classes this year. Our class for 3 year olds through kindergarteners uses the ‘Godly Play’ approach, sharing and reflecting on the central stories of our faith.  Our classes for 1st through 2rd graders, and for 3rd through 5th graders, use a curriculum based on the Sunday lectionary, the same Bible lessons we hear in the liturgy that day. They explore those lessons through discussion, art, drama, Lego, and other projects. All kids are welcome to participate!

Lammastide Festival of Bread, Sunday, September 10: Lammastide is an ancient harvest festival that became a church festival in our mother church, the Church of England. It’s an opportunity to offer the fruits of the growing season thankfully to God. The word means “loaf mass” – it was originally held at the time of year when the first grain ripened enough to be made into fresh loaves of bread. We will celebrate the end of summer together with a Lammastide procession and blessing, and a festive bread-themed Coffee Hour after the 10am service. Bring a loaf of bread – any kind! – or something beautiful from your garden or the farmer’s market: vegetables, fruit, flowers. We will offer our harvest gifts during worship; you can reclaim your produce afterwards.

Big Questions, Current Events, Hospitality, Spiritual Practices

Our Immigrant Stories

As immigration has become a major topic in our national conversation, we as Christians are mindful that our holy book commands us to be kind to the stranger residing among us. You shall love the stranger living among you, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt, says Leviticus 19 – one of many places where mercy towards the outsider is mentioned.  Our Scriptures and our God call us to treat immigrants with kindness and respect – remembering that we or our ancestors were once immigrants seeking a new home. To help us understand the lives, needs, and fears of our immigrant neighbors, some members of St. Dunstan’s have been sharing their own “how I got here” stories.

Julie

My immigrant story really is my grandmother’s story. I never knew her, because she died in the mid-1930s, when my father was a teenager. But I spent most Wednesday afternoons after school with my great-aunt Frances, her sister, and she loved to talk about my grandmother to me.

My paternal grandparents emigrated from one of many German enclaves in Romania in the first decade of the 20th century, before World War I. Their entire village and the extended families of both my grandmother and grandfather immigrated to the United States together. My grandfather was possessed of a simple ambition: to own his own land, for back in Romania he never would have been allowed to do so, as he was only a peasant.

After a few years of working hard in America, he achieved his dream and bought his own dairy farm. Many members of their families and fellow villagers settled in the same area, about 60 miles north of Detroit, Michigan. My grandparents had four children, two born in Romania and two, including my dad, born in this country. They were contented on the farm. My grandfather planted roses around the house and by the barnyard fence for my grandmother, roses that still bloom by our horse paddock gate here in Wisconsin. He made the old farmhouse as pretty as possible for her, too, with wallpaper and paint and a marble-topped table in the parlor. He was one of the first farmers in the area to install an indoor bathroom in their house. All this and more to make my grandmother happy.

And she was, I think, mostly contented. But she dreaded going into town. Back then, people disliked and looked down on immigrants from southern and eastern Europe, especially if they were Catholic. When she went into town with her children, people were unfriendly, some even going so far as to cross the street to avoid the newcomers. “Why do they hate us so?” she used to ask her sister, my great-aunt Frances, tears pouring down her face. All the older German women who knew her used to tell me after mass each Sunday that she was the sweetest, gentlest soul they ever knew, and perhaps this is the reason she never grew accustomed to the prejudice she faced. One day, she laid her head down on the table at breakfast and said, “I’m so tired,” and died.

My great-aunt Frances always maintained to me that my grandma died of a broken heart, that she wore herself out pining for something that would never be given to her, no matter how spruce her home and farm, no matter how white and starched the immaculate lace dresses she put on her three young girls for town visits. She craved respect and friendship from the people among whom she settled, and she never got that. Of course, who knows whether that unrequited dream contributed to her death? But I’m certain that she felt the sadness my great aunt told me about, for they were very close.

This seems a sad story, doesn’t it? But its ending is not sad, I hope. Before I share the end of the story, though, let me first share a few facts. My German grandparents came here during a period when this country, according to the Pew Research Center, had a very high percentage of foreign-born residents. And it’s predicted that we may break the record for that percentage within the next few years. Many things about immigration have changed since my grandparents came over from eastern Europe. Here are just a few: there are now more immigrants who are Hispanic, though that also will change in the future, Pew Research analysts predict; there are more refugees in the world than at any other time in the last seventy years except right at the end of World War II; and there are many foreign-born residents here without legal authorization who have not been able to, and will not be able to, secure that authorization. One can gain legal permission to remain here through work, family ties, or for humanitarian reasons, but those exceptions don’t apply to many of the undocumented immigrants in our country. There is, at this point, no line for a large percentage of the undocumented immigrants in this country to go stand at the end of, so that they can secure permission to stay here.

It’s true that as a society today, we don’t always agree about how to address the challenges of today’s undocumented immigrants and others who arrive in our country. But I think some things about immigrants, authorized or otherwise, remain the same as when my family emigrated here. People still want to feel welcomed to our country, and accepted. And other people still feel threatened by people with a different culture and a different language, perhaps fearful that the way of life that is theirs will change.

As for my grandmother, I believe she would be happy to see that her family has thrived in America, that all her grandchildren have college degrees while many have obtained advanced professional degrees. My grandparents valued education, as well as hard work, music, and beauty. Naturally, my grandfather, being German, also valued a bottle of good beer! We feel part of the life of this country. It took about two generations for the German Catholic community from Romania to fully integrate into the small town where I grew up, but it did. Even though we are no longer strangers to this country, however, I don’t forget my grandmother’s pain. I remember Barbara Loeffler’s story.

I think about her path as a stranger to this country, and I think about my path to this church of St. Dunstan’s. My journey, nowhere near as difficult as hers, was made easy by so many people here. And I thank you all for that, and for listening to my grandmother’s story.

Nana

We were born in South Africa. At the time we emigrated in 1985 we had lived most of our lives there. This was where we grew up, were educated, had our family and worked for more than a decade. Peter grew up Methodist, I was Anglican and after our marriage, we worshipped in both communions. South Africa was also where our parents and siblings lived. Why, then, did we leave?

South Africa was an apartheid society, with power and wealth in the hands of whites (who were less than 20% of the population). As we grew up, resistance to the status quo by the subservient black population led to draconian laws that limited where black people could live, who they could marry, what jobs they could hold, and what consequences they faced if they transgressed. To manage this, the apartheid government ramped up security forces – both police and the military. After high school, all white males were conscripted for at least two years: their primary purpose was to maintain the status quo. States of emergency that suspended normal civil liberties were imposed. The polarization between white and black increased to the point that mediation efforts appeared to be withering, and outright civil war seemed a distinct possibility. Small wonder, then, that in spite of our deep roots, we decided South Africa was not a country where we wanted to spend the rest of our lives.

The next question was: Where should we go? Since both of our ancestral families were from the UK, and that is where we both went for postgraduate study and where we met, this might have seemed an obvious choice.  But 2½ years in Vancouver, Canada where Peter had a post-doctoral fellowship and I did my master’s, changed our minds: we’d have happily stayed. There were personal reasons – we look back on that time as an extended honeymoon, we made life-long friends and Fraser, our son, was born there, I completed my master’s and Peter found new professional directions. But there were no jobs. After 6 years back in South Africa, a sabbatical gave us the opportunity to spend more than a year in Ithaca, NY. This was highly influential for both of us in our professional development. Once again, we’d have happily stayed. Two in-depth, decidedly positive North American experiences convinced us that this is where we could happily live. It took, however, another 5 years back in South Africa before contacts initiated in Ithaca bore fruit with a faculty position at the UW-Madison.

We are conscious that we have been extraordinarily privileged in our lives. Our decision to leave was not forced on us by deprivation, persecution, or civil war. As white English-speaking South Africans, we had access to excellent schools that opened doors to university education in South Africa and to study-abroad opportunities after graduation. These gave us a perspective on other parts of the world beyond the borders of South Africa. Our decision to come here was also a choice that we could pursue on our terms, and do so in an orderly manner: we received a job offer at the UW-Madison where they held the position open for more than a year until our green cards were issued. To get established here we were indebted with the support we received from many quarters: professional, social and spiritual.

These two questions – Why leave? and Where to go? – faced many of our own ancestors, as they do for the vast number of migrants and refugees we see in the world today. Shortly after we were married we met an Indian physicist in Canada. He told us he was a citizen of the world, and he had a newsletter to promote this concept. We signed on, and that is what we are today: citizens of the world.

6205 University Ave., Madison WI

St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church