Pray Election Day on Facebook

Join us Election Day, November 6, on the Diocesan Facebook page as we offer simple (non-political, non-partisan) prayers for our nation and for peace each hour on the hour beginning at 7am and concluding at 7pm.

John Meek retires as diocesan treasurer

At the October 18 meeting of the diocesan Program Review & Budget (PB&R) Committee meeting, Bishop Hollerith, members of PB&R, and diocesan staff thanked John Meek as he retired as diocesan treasurer.  

 

John has served the Diocese as volunteer treasurer for eight years. During his tenure, John was instrumental in the effort to increase diocesan giving to the Episcopal Church, enabling Southern Virginia to be able to achieve the required 15% pledge in 2019.  

 

John thanked the Bishop and committee members, saying, "It has been my real honor and pleasure to serve with you all for eight years and I wish the Diocese God's blessing as we proceed from this place into the future."

Ordination at Good Shepherd, Norfolk

Your prayers and presence are invited for the Ordination to the Sacred Order of Priests of Saul Lars Burleson on Monday, November 26 at 7 p.m. at Good Shepherd, Norfolk. Saul is a deacon and chaplain in the U.S. Navy. He will be ordained by The Rt. Rev. Michael B. Hunn, Bishop of the Rio Grande. A reception will follow the service. Clergy: Red stoles. Clergy from other traditions are invited to vest or wear dress uniform and process. Good Shepherd is located at 7400 Hampton Blvd. in Norfolk.

It may be chilly outside, but we are thinking of warm summer camp days!

Don't miss the Do It Now discount!

 

At Chanco, we are already planning furiously for summer camp 2019. We are excited to share a fantastic upgrade of our Camp Brain software and an extension of our Do It Now discount for camp registration! We are very excited about this change and as a result your registration process will be more user-friendly than ever before. Register for Camp Chanco 2019 by November 30th and you will receive $15 off a one-week session and $25 off a two-week session! Chanco has traditional camp sessions for ages 8-18 along with specialty sessions Ropes Camp, Mariner's Camp, and Family Camp! Click here for a flyer with more information and visit www.chanco.org to register today! Remember - refer a new camper who registers and receive $50 off your own tuition - no limit! Questions? Contact us at hospitality@chanco.org or 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626).

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry to release book of sermons, The Power of Love

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry has collected five of his most notable sermons in a book that will be released on Oct. 30. The book will include his royal wedding sermon and three sermons from General Convention: at opening Eucharist on July 5, the revival on July 7 and the prayer service July 8 outside the Hutto Detention Center in Taylor, Texas.  

 

"To be honest, I wasn't thinking about including those sermons in a book, but when the publisher saw them we all realized that they would take the message of the love of Jesus deeper and apply it to life," Curry said. "I hope and pray that this message of the way of love, which is the way of Jesus, can be a message for our world at this time."

Mission Share Resolution the focus of gatherings

Please join members of the Mission Share Task Force for conversation relating to the Mission Share Resolution to be presented at Council in 2019. These meetings are open to anyone who would like to attend.  We encourage attendance from clergy, vestry members, delegates and treasurers.

These conversations will take place in two locations on Saturday, November 17 at 10:00 a.m.

• Manakin Church - 985 Huguenot Trail, Midlothian
• Emmanuel Church - 5181 Singleton Way, Virginia Beach

For more information or questions, please contact The Rev. Gini DiStanislao, gini@manakin.org.

Register now for November Weekend!

This year's November Weekend for grades 6 through 12 will be Friday, November 16 to Sunday, November 18 at Chanco on the James. Teens along with their adult leaders are invited to attend this faith, fun retreat. Click here for details and registration. Registration deadline is Nov. 5.  

 

Happening #69 cancelled - Mark your calendar for Happening #70 in March 2019

After prayerful reflection, the Happening Committee has determined the need to take a temporary sabbatical this fall and continue the Happening program in the spring.  This temporary sabbatical will provide ample time to ensure a sustainable program for the long term. The plan is to hold Happening #70 March 15-17, 2019 with Pre-Happening March 2-3 and deadline for applications February 8. We are very happy to announce that Clarissa Harbin has been called, and accepted, to serve as the Rector for Happening #70.

GraceInside prison ministry offers new resources

GraceInside, Virginia's prison chaplain service, has released a new brochure that more accurately and personally shares the powerful impact you can make behind bars. With "GraceInside Graduates" and more pictures from the inside, you are sure to see more of what you are doing on the inside and its impact on those who get out. GraceInside has also developed seven topical fliers to share on specific topics: When someone you love is incarcerated; When someone you love has been a victim of crime; How can I help?; How do I volunteer? For more information about these resources and how you can support the work of GraceInside call them at 804-358-7650. Click here for many more resources available on their website.

Vote Faithfully Toolkit available

The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations has developed the Vote Faithfully Toolkit which you can access here. As Christians, we can play a unique role in this election by empowering every voice in our congregations. The toolkit includes actions steps for your congregation and liturgical resources.

 

"We are blessed as a nation to vote. As citizens of this country this is a right, an obligation, and a duty. Go vote. Vote your conscience. Your conscience informed by what it means to love your neighbor, to participate in the process of seeking the common good, to participate in the process of making this a better world. However you vote, go and vote. And do that as followers of Jesus." -- Presiding Bishop Michael Curry

Young Adult Service Corps applications being accepted for 2019-2020 placements

	Former YASC member Andy Russell, from Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, served in Tanzania.

The Young Adult Service Corps (YASC) offers exciting opportunities to serve, learn, and share while spending a year living and working with communities around the world.

Open to Episcopalians ages 21-30, applications are now available for 2019-2020 placements with the Young Adult Service Corps, the international missionary program of the Episcopal Church. Potential placements for 2019-2020 include (but are not limited to) Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, England, Honduras, Hong Kong, Panama, the Philippines, South Africa, Taiwan, and Tanzania. The application deadline is Friday, January 11, 2019.  Click here for more information and application.

Gulf Coast and Carolinas appeal for support of hurricane relief and recovery efforts

Episcopal churches on the Gulf Coast, including parts of Georgia and North and South Carolina, continue to assess Hurricane Michael's damage, with some in the hardest hit coast areas still in the rescue phase.

In an Oct. 15 interview with Episcopal News Service, Dwight Babcock, diocesan administrator for the Episcopal Church of the Central Gulf Coast said of the recovery efforts, "This is a marathon, not a sprint. We just don't know what we're looking at." Ten of the 11 damaged churches held services "in one form or another," on Oct. 14; some inside the churches, some outdoors in pavilions, he said.

The Episcopal Church of the Central Gulf Coast has created a Hurricane Relief Hub, listing ways to donate to hurricane relief efforts.

Communities in Georgia and the Carolinas affected by Hurricane Michael are still dealing with the effects of Hurricane Florence. The Diocese of East Carolina has also issued an appeal for support.

"The local dioceses are continuing to assess the damage caused by the storm," said Katie Mears, senior director of Episcopal Relief & Development's U.S. Disaster Program, which is supporting these dioceses as they begin relief and recovery efforts.

Cursillo 4th Day Celebration at Chanco

The Cursillo Secretariat joyfully invites all of the Cursillo Community for the 4th Day Celebration on Saturday, October 20, from 12 to 3 p.m. at Chanco on the James. Support our new Cursillistas as we continue to orient and educate those who have just completed a Cursillo Weekend and those who are continuing to live out their Fourth Day.  

 

We will begin with fellowship and singing, and Stew Wolfe will give the Witness Talk. The Rev. Susan Grimm will be our Spiritual Director for the day and will celebrate Holy Eucharist.

Hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share.

Godly Play training in Williamsburg Jan. 11-13

Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, will be hosting a Godly Play training January 11-13. Trainer Laura McGuire will be leading the Core Training weekend and all are welcome to sign-up to learn more about this great program for children's ministry. Register here. Space is limited.

Terron Watkins joins Jackson-Feild

Terron Watkins joined the development staff at Jackson-Feild. Terron is a native of Richmond graduating from Richmond Public Schools. He is a graduate of Longwood University where he studied communications focusing on public relations.

 

After graduation he worked in development for a Grace Place which provided adult day care services until the program closed its doors.

 

His primary responsibilities will be online giving, special events, Christmas program, Young Professionals Society and assisting the VP of Development with fund raising and communication projects.

 

Terron brings passion, commitment to Jackson-Feild's mission and a willingness to learn and grow as a development professional. He is looking forward to helping Jackson-Feild fulfill its mission and help our children.

New Advent curriculum and resources for Way of Love: Practices for Jesus-Centered Living

Recognizing that Episcopalians have been hunting for resources to support our journeys on The Way of Love, the Office of the Presiding Bishop offered an update on what's available and what's coming soon at  www.episcopalchurch.org/wayoflove and around the church.

Formation resources are coming soon:

• Following the Way of Love: 9-session Small Group Guide for groups that seek to reshape their lives around Jesus and his Way of Love. The guide details best practices for organizing small groups and discipleship groups, and then moves participants through reflection, discernment, action and deep commitment around the seven practices. Excellent for small groups, vestries, ministry leadership groups. Available for download on October 12.   
• Journeying the Way of Love: 4-week Advent Curriculum pegged to readings and themes from the Sunday lectionary. Ideal for Christian formation hour offerings at churches and ministries exploring the Way of Love. Available for download on November 2.

Click here for more information on Way of Love resources already available.

Chanco celebrates groundbreaking

After its board meeting on Tuesday, the Chanco Board walked the "Stations of Construction" where a prayer was said over each site of renovation/construction followed by a champagne toast. The board recognizes that this moment is the result of several years of work and that we couldn't be here if not for you - our donors, parishes, volunteers and friends! THANK YOU! Haven't made your gift to the campaign yet? We are still working to reach beyond our $3 million stretch goal and need you! Contact Development Director Talley Banazek at talley@banazek.com to discuss how you can be a part of this exciting time in Chanco's 50 year history!

Bishop Magness to lead 2019 Holy Land pilgrimage

Bishop Magness invites you to join him in the spring of 2019 for the second diocesan pilgrimage to the Holy Land. This is an incredible opportunity to both renew your faith and expand your knowledge of the land where Jesus lived out his ministry. Walk in the places where Jesus walked, and experience the world that our Lord experienced.

This pilgrimage is limited to just 35 participants. The deadline for registration is November 15, 2018. After that, registration will be open to persons outside of the diocese. Click here for the tour brochure and application form.

Deacons' School grads ordained

Bishop Hollerith and Bishop Shannon Johnston of Diocese of Virginia ordained six new deacons on Saturday, Sept. 29 at Galilee, Virginia Beach - two from Southern Virginia and four from Virginia. They are all graduates of The Deacons' School, a joint project of the three dioceses in Virginia. Southern Virginia's new deacons are the Rev. Deacon Linda Rogers and the Rev. Deacon Carter Sinclair (second and first from right, respectively; photo by the Rev. Julia Messer).

VTS Lifelong Learning free webinars

Lifelong Learning at Virginia Theological Seminary offers free monthly webinars on a variety of topics valuable to parish leaders. All webinars are the middle Wednesday of the month at 3 p.m. If you can't participate live, register anyway so that you can get a recording of the webinar to watch at your convenience.

• Rebooting Advent: Preparing Hearts - October 17
• Beyond Screentime: Connecting with Youth - November 14
• Welcoming the Visitor: Tips for the Holidays - December 12
• How to Be Church Beyond Our Buildings - January 16

Youth events: Register now for November Weekend

Happening #69

The next Happening event will be held November 9-11, 2018 at Chanco on the James. Happening is a weekend retreat for young that may just change your life. Come and see what it's like to be transformed by God's love! Open to all young adults grade 10 and up. More info and registration coming soon!  

November Weekend    

This year's November Weekend for grades 6 through 12 will be Friday, November 16 to Sunday, November 18, 2018 at Chanco on the James. Teens along with their adult leaders are invited to attend this faith, fun retreat. Click here for details and registration.

ECW Annual Fall Meeting Oct. 20

St. Cyprian's, Hampton, will host the ECW Annual Fall Meeting on Saturday, October 20. The Province III President Beblon Parks will be the keynote speaker. Also this will be the last time Bishop Herman Hollerith IV will be with us as Bishop of of Southern Virginia. Come and join us in saying goodbye.

 

Registration and coffee will begin at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will convene at 10 a.m. and will include Eucharist, installation of ECW officers and lunch. To register for the meeting, contact Tia Morings, 757-650-8809 or morings1@gmail.com by October 6. Registration cost is $20 and includes lunch. Please advise Tia of any dietary restrictions. Registration fee will be collected at the door. Registration deadline is October 6. St. Cyprian's is located at 1242 West Queen Street in Hampton.  

CE-Net webinar: Where Faith & Life Meet

The Christian Education Network (CE-Net) invites you to join them online October 17, 6 to 7:30 for the webinar Where Faith & Life Meet. How do we respond when unexpected events occur in the lives of our parish families? Where does our faith intersect with our everyday life? If you are responsible for some aspect of Christian Formation you have likely considered these questions. The program will be led by Vicki M. Lanier, LPC. Vicki is a member of St. Andrew's, Newport News, and holds a Master's Degree in Education. Click here to register.

Save the dates! Upcoming diocesan youth events

Happening #69

The next Happening event will be held November 9-11, 2018 at Chanco on the James. Happening is a weekend retreat for young that may just change your life. Come and see what it's like to be transformed by God's love! Open to all young adults grade 10 and up. More info and registration coming soon!  

 

November Weekend    

This year's November Weekend for grades 6 through 12 will be Friday, November 16 to Sunday, November 18, 2018 at Chanco on the James. Teens along with their adult leaders are invited to attend this faith, fun retreat. More info and registration information.   

 

Happening #70

The spring Happening event will be held March 8-10, 2019 at Chanco on the James. Open to all young adults grade 10 and up. More info and registration coming soon.

Transforming Generosity stewardship series now available

The Episcopal Network for Stewardship's (TENS) 2018 Transforming Generosity stewardship narrative series and annual giving campaign is now available. This year's materials are designed to help stewardship teams lead their congregation step by step through an eight week annual giving campaign. Contributing writers from around the United States reflect on the Sunday lectionary beginning Sunday, October 7 running through Sunday, November 25, with inspiring thoughts about generosity and transformation.

 

The Transforming Generosity series (both in English and Spanish) includes:

• Eight Bulletin Inserts to include in Worship Bulletins, E-Newsletters, and E-Blasts beginning October 7 through November 25 (Christ the King). Each reflection includes discussion questions that can be used for adult formation gatherings.
• Pledge card and proportional giving chart.
• Prayers of the People to be used in worship.
• Stewardship letters from the Rector, the Stewardship Chair, and the Senior Warden.
• Logos in PNG, PDF, and EPS formats.

Transforming Generosity is free for congregations in Southern Virginia thanks to the diocesan-level TENS membership, through which TENS membership benefits extend to every parish in the Diocese. If you would like to access the TENS resources, please contact Ann Turner 

for the password, aturner@diosova.org or 757-213-3388.

Applications accepted for Episcopal delegates to 2019 United Nations Commission on the Status of Women

Applications are being accepted for Episcopal delegates to represent the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church at the 63rd Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) in New York City, March 11 - 22, 2019. The priority theme for this meeting is: "Social protection systems, access to public services and sustainable infrastructure for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls."

The Episcopal delegation will consist of one delegate from each province of the Episcopal Church as well as a delegate from the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe. The intent is to have the delegation as a whole reflect the diversity of the Episcopal Church, with priority given to those whose life experiences and advocacy speak most directly to the theme.

Delegates may be of any gender and at least 19 years old. Youth (ages 15-18) may also apply. Each youth must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, preferably a parent or legal guardian. Delegates are responsible for their own travel, housing, program expenses and fundraising. A limited amount of scholarship funding may be available. Following a review of the applications, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will choose the delegates. All applicants will be notified by the end of November.

Complete information and application is available in English here and in Spanish here. Deadline is October 26. For more information contact Lynnaia Main, Episcopal Church Representative to the United Nations, lmain@episcopalchurch.org. 

Does your church have a disaster management plan?

A diocesan disaster management program is available to help congregations plan for potential incidents, provide direction during times of crises, and foster cooperation in recovery efforts.  The central focus of the disaster management program is assisting congregations to develop and maintain an All-Hazard Disaster Management Plan that will enable congregations to evaluate their infrastructure, identify threats, and assess specific vulnerabilities, and develop a plan to address them.

 

For more information and to schedule your training, please contact Dr. Bill King at 757-572-3853 (cell) or 804-479-3301 (home), or ddc@diosova.org. For documentation and training materials contact Diocesan Communications Officer Ann Turner at 757-213-3388 or aturner@diosova.org.

Trail Ride and Poker Run at Boys Home

Join Boys Home of Virginia for their inaugural weekend trail ride and poker run! The weekend will take place on our beautiful 1000+ acre campus, and will feature creek-side camping, self-guided trail rides on Lick Mountain, a poker run, and live music by the campfire, featuring the Garnet Ridge Ramblers. Proceeds will go toward the Boys Home Sturdy Stirrups equine program, where boys learn respect, responsibility, and honesty through caring for and interacting with horses.

 

Boys Home houses and educates nearly 60 at-risk young men whose lives have been impacted by poverty or family instability. Working together, we believe all boys have the potential to become successful men, and that each day is a step toward that success.

 

The trail ride and poker run will take place on the weekend of October 13-14 and is $75 per rider. Registration will start at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, followed by the poker run at 10:00 a.m. All participants are asked to check out no later than 2:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. The event will provide snacks, a boxed lunch, dinner and music by the campfire on Saturday, and a continental breakfast on Sunday. Overnight accommodations include primitive creek-side camping, with restrooms and showers available in the gym.

 

Please note, this is a challenging ride, and horses should have horseshoes. An up-to-date Coggins is required for all horses. Out-of-state riders must present a copy of a 30-day health certificate from a veterinarian before unloading horses.

 

For questions, please contact Bonnie Wheatley at 540-965-7720. To sign up or for more information, visit boyshometrailride.eventbrite.com.

Charlottesville to Jamestown Pilgrimage

Charlottesville to Jamestown: A Journey of Transformation will occur in early October 2018. It will begin in Charlottesville, the site of the most violent attack by white supremacists in modern US history, and it will end at the landing point of the first enslaved Africans on this continent, Jamestown and Fort Monroe, Virginia. Offering a history of race and occupation, this pilgrimage will share religious perspectives from scholars, journalists, and clergy members.

 

Participants on this pilgrimage will hear stories and untold histories, build relationships and identify what needs to be transformed in order to bring about racial equity. Sponsored by the Charlottesville Clergy Collective, the events will provide an opportunity to acknowledge the sin of enslavement and its legacy of inequity. It will invite participants to take the next step to build a more just community.

 

The pilgrimage commences on Saturday, October 6, with a four-mile walk from Charlottesville to Monticello. At Monticello, we will hear stories about the lives of the enslaved from their descendants, and read the names of almost 360 people who wereenslaved there.

 

From Monday, October 8 through Thursday, October 11, there will be educational and cultural events that address the history of American Indian presence in what we now call Virginia, and the connections between Christianity and systemic racism.

 

On Friday, October 12, participants will travel to Richmond to walk the Richmond's Slave Trail. On Saturday, October 13, participants will visit Jamestown for a First Africans tour, and then move on to Fort Monroe, where the first ship brought enslaved Africans to this shore almost 400 years ago.

 

The Pilgrimage is sponsored by Charlottesville Clergy Collective, a nonprofit, interfaith organization of fifty members representing over twelve Christian denominations and five faith traditions committed to addressing racism. The Pilgrimage has been funded by the generous support of BAMA Works Fund of Dave Matthews Band at the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, the Virginia United Methodist Foundation, twelve different local faith congregations, and several individual donors. The Baptist Center for Ethics and the Thomas Jefferson Foundation have provided in-kind services.

 

Go to www.cville2jtown.com for further information

 

For further information contact: Rabia Povich at deborahpovich@gmail.com; Michael Cheuk at email@cvilleclergycollective.org; Robert Lewis at rdlewis75@gmail.com. 

The Rev. James Carey retires from Jackson-Feild

The Rev. James Carey retired from the Gwaltney School and Jackson-Feild Behavioral Health Service after teaching history and government for thirteen years. His passion for history was infectious and helped countless students achieve their educational goals. The Rev. Carey served as a mentor and strong role model for his students. He demonstrated why history is important and is a key component in becoming an informed citizen.

 

He served in the United States Army and in Vietnam for a year. He and his wife are active in the community. The Rev. Carey pastors a local church and served as our unofficial school chaplain pronouncing the benediction for countless school activities and ceremonies.

 

The Rev. Carey was honored at a special ceremony to thank him for his service and to recognize him for efforts to educate children with mental health disorders which requires inordinate patience and understanding. He was given a gift and a clock to commemorate his service to Jackson-Feild.

Diocesan Connection and ECW Grapevine newsletters available

The July-September 2018 issue of the Diocesan Connection newsletter, which includes the Fall issue of the ECW Grapevine, is now available. The newsletter offers a digest of stories from our weekly Parish News and Diocesan eNews. Please print and share a copy with church members who do not have email, and post a copy on a bulletin board or in your narthex.  

 

You can also find the Diocesan Connection on the News & Publications page of our website.   

CE-Net gathering on Sept. 19

Join the Christian Education Network (CE-Net) for an informal roundtable conversation on Wednesday, September 19, 10:00 to 11:30 at the Diocesan Office in Newport News. Come ready to share one thing from your ministry that is going well AND one thing that is a growth opportunity in your ministry. If you are available, please join us for a Dutch treat lunch at a nearby restaurant afterward. Hope to see you there!

Administrators & Treasurers Lunch Group to meet Sept. 20 at Diocesan Office

The Administrators & Treasurers Lunch Group will meet on Thursday, September 20, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Diocesan Office in Newport News. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other parish administrators and treasurers to talk about common issues. There's no agenda for this gathering - just an opportunity to get together, share, encourage, support, and ask questions. Bring your own lunch; beverages will be provided. RSVP to Diocesan Comptroller Judy Dobson, jdobson@diosova.org or 757-213-3386. 

Historic St. Luke's to hold Cemetery Preservation Workshop Sept. 29

Historic St. Luke's in Smithfield will offer a Cemetery Preservation Workshop Saturday, September 29, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Space is limited to the first 25 registrants. St. Lukes' Education Coordinator Rachel Popp will lead participants through a three-hour journey of learning about and applying authorized headstone and monument cleaning techniques in Virginia's oldest open cemetery. For more information and to RSVP, email Rachel Popp at  rpopp@historicstlukes.org.  

ODU students - connect with the Canterbury Center

The Canterbury Center at Old Dominion University in Norfolk is a place for ODU students to come for Noonday Prayer and lunch at 12:30 p.m. on Thursdays, and Eucharist at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner on Sunday evenings. Students can always find a food and a place to study, relax, engage in Bible study (usually on Tuesday afternoons) with other students. Therapy dogs Kuma & Kimba are there to relieve stress. The chaplain, the Rev Wendy Wilkinson, is there Tuesday, Thursdays and Sunday evening and is always ready to listen and engage students as they seek a deeper relationship with Jesus or just need a compassionate listener. If you are at ODU this semester, stop by for lunch and meet us! We will be joining with William & Mary, Longwood University, and Hampden-Sydney for a retreat at Chanco the first weekend of November. The Canterbury Center is at 1526 W. 49th St across from ODU. For more information contact the Rev Wendy Wilkinson at chaplain@oducanterbury.org.

September 9 is UBE Sunday: Honoring the Rev. Alexander Crummell

On Sunday September 9, we celebrate the life and legacy of our notable saint, the Rev. Alexander Crummell. It is also designated as Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) Sunday to commemorate the racial justice ministry of this organization which was an outgrowth of the Rev. Crummell's advocacy. The UBE invites you to use this in your bulletin on Sunday, September 9 or on any other Sunday that you are reflecting on racial reconciliation.

 

Collect 

Almighty and everlasting God, we thank you for your servant Alexander Crummell, whom you called to preach the Gospel to those who were far off and to those who were near. We thank you for his faithfulness though gravely oppressed by racism. We also thank you for empowering his courageous and prophetic witness for racial justice; and against spiritual wickedness in high places within the Church and the world. Raise up, O Lord, in this and every land, evangelists and heralds of your kingdom. May the Union of Black Episcopalians and the larger Church proclaim justice and all the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

 

About The Rev. Alexander Crummell 

Born March 3, 1819 in New York City, Alexander Crummell struggled against racism all his life. As a young man he was driven out of an academy in New Hampshire, dismissed as a candidate for Holy Orders in New York and rejected for admittance to General Seminary. Ordained in 1844 as a priest in the Diocese of Massachusetts, he left for England after being excluded from participating in diocesan convention. After receiving a degree from Cambridge he went to Liberia as a missionary. A model Christian republic seemed possible in Liberia. He traveled extensively in the United States urging blacks to immigrate to Liberia and support the work of the Church there. On returning to Liberia he worked to establish a national Episcopal Church. Political opposition and a lack of funding finally forced him to return to the United States. He concentrated his efforts on establishing a strong urban presence of independent black congregations that would be centers of worship, education and social service. When southern bishops proposed that a separate missionary district be created for black congregations, Crummell created a national convocation to fight the proposal. The Union of Black Episcopalians is an outgrowth of that organization. His faith in God, his perseverance in spite of repeated discouragement, his perception that the Church transcended the racism and limited vision of its rulers, and his unfailing belief in the goodness and greatness of black people are the legacy of the Afro-American pioneer.

Historic St. Luke's hosts Living History event

On Saturday, Sept. 8, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Virginia's oldest church building, Historic St. Luke's in Smithfield, will host a living history event, 17th Century Isle of Wight County. Event activities include a presentation on early 17th-century clothing and adornment, period vendors selling their wares, reenactors/living historians demonstrating sword play and more, a concert by the Locrian Consort introducing instruments such as the sackbut, and much more. Click here for complete details and to purchase tickets.  

 

VTS offers online course: Digital Literacies for Ministry

The Center for the Ministry of Teaching at Virginia Theological Seminary is offering an eight-week online course, Digital Literacies for Ministry. This course is for all faith leaders - Christian formation leaders, church communicators, and others. The Digital Literacies class will begin on September 25 and go for eight weeks. There will only be two times when the class will meet synchronously for bible study. That time and day will be determined after the class begins. All the work will be done online in the VTS learning management system, Brightspace, and Zoom. Cost is $150. Click here to register.  

Data from 2017 Parochial Reports available

The Rev. Canon Dr. Michael Barlowe, Executive Officer of the General Convention, has announced that data from the 2017 Parochial Reports of the Episcopal Church is now available in English and Spanish here. Canon Barlowe observed that the 2017 data "continues recent trends, with decline in key membership and attendance figures," although "congregational income through pledges and other offerings has increased," even as overall numbers of congregants have decreased.

 

The Parochial Report is the oldest, continuous gathering of data by the Episcopal Church. By tradition and canon, the reporting requirements are developed by the House of Deputies' Committee on the State of the Church, using a form approved by the church's Executive Council. Overseen by the Executive Officer of General Convention, the Parochial Report touches every congregation of the church. Together with other data, including that of the Recorder of Ordinations and the Registrar of General Convention, the Parochial Report provides an insight to the state of the church.

Save the date: Fall youth events

November Weekend    

This year's November Weekend for grades 6 through 12 will be Friday, November 16 to Sunday, November 18, 2018 at Chanco on the James. Teens along with their adult leaders are invited to attend this faith, fun retreat.  Stay tuned for our theme and registration information. 

 

2018 National Acolyte Festival

 

This year's festival is Saturday, October 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Washington National Cathedral. Parishes, this is fantastic opportunity to take your acolytes to a morning service of re-dedication and Holy Eucharist and workshops are offered in the afternoon for enrichment.  Click here for more details and to register.

New program available to assist congregations with disaster planning and preparedness

A new disaster management program is now available to help congregations plan for potential incidents, provide direction during times of crises, and foster cooperation in recovery efforts.

 

Heading this program for the Diocese is Dr. Bill King, diocesan volunteer disaster management coordinator, and the Rev. Willis Foster, rector of St. Stephen's, Petersburg. Both have extensive experience in planning, training, and operations associated with disaster preparedness and incident management.

 

The central focus of the disaster management program is assisting congregations to develop and maintain an All-Hazard Disaster Management Plan (AHDMP). This AHDMP will enable congregations to evaluate their infrastructure, identify threats, and assess specific vulnerabilities, and develop a plan to address them.

 

Plan development training for your disaster management team is now available. You should anticipate an eight-hour training session. For additional information and scheduling, please contact Dr. Bill King at 757-572-3853 (cell) or 804-479-3301 (home), or  ddc@diosova.org. For documentation and training materials contact Diocesan Communications Officer Ann Turner at 757-213-3388 or aturner@diosova.org.

Recovery Month services

Friday, August 31, is International Overdose Awareness Day

In honor of the day SpiritWorks Foundation, Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, and the diocesan Addictions and Recovery Commission are hosting a Service of Remembrance at 7 p.m. at Bruton Parish.  Please join us as we remember those who have lost their lives to addiction and support their families and friends who mourn. There will be a short prayer service and an opportunity to light a candle of remembrance. Refreshments and fellowship will follow in the Custis House across the street from the church. Parking is available on Duke of Gloucester Street during the service. Click here for a flyer you can post and share.  

 

September is Recovery Month

SpiritWorks Foundation is hosting the First Fridays Recovery Eucharist on September 7, at 5:30 p.m. at Bruton Parish, Williamsburg. The service is designed with prayers and readings that focus on helping people find ways to live faithfully in the midst of any kind of suffering, especially individuals and their loved ones who are living with addiction, co-dependence, mental illness, and trauma. We pray for those who are continuing to struggle, mourn those who have died, and celebrate with those who are experiencing the joy of recovery. Parking is available on Duke of Gloucester Street during the service.

 

For more information contact 757-903-0000 or lauren@spiritworksfoundation.org.

Boys Home second annual 5K to include costume contest, games and prizes

On October 20, Boys Home of Virginia is hosting the Howl-O-Ween Hustle 5K and Kids Fun Run, at the Intervale Trailhead of the Jackson River Scenic Trail, in Covington, VA. This outdoor event is focused on bringing runners, families, and pets together for some fall-themed fun! Besides the Fun Run and the 5K, participants can enjoy costume contests, face painting, games, and sweet treats provided by Amy's Cups and Cones.

 

All runners will receive a Boys Home Howl-O-Ween Hustle 5K and Kids Fun Run T-shirt, and pets will receive a special pet bandana. Top finishers will be given a Howl-O-Ween Hustle commemorative pint glass, and all children will be awarded a participation medal.

 

Through August 31, individual tickets are $25, and family tickets (2 adults plus children) are $40. September 1 - October 20, individual tickets are $30, and family tickets are $50. Runners may also choose to bring a pet, sponsor a Boys Home runner, or participate in our Virtual 5K!

 

The Virtual 5K is a new option this year. The Virtual 5K is intended for Boys Home supporters who can't be in Covington for the race, who may be physically unable to run or walk, and all who want to support Boys Home in spirit! Those participating in the Virtual 5K can choose to run, walk, hike, or complete the run "virtually" - from the comfort of their living room! Once we receive your registration, you'll receive your event T-shirt in the mail to display proudly on October 20.

  

To register, fill out a registration form and send to Boys Home of Virginia, 414 Boys Home Rd., Covington, VA, 24426. Or, visit www.runforboyshome.com, or call Colleen at 540-965-7703.

The Rev. Jan Brown, co-chair of Southern VA's Addictions & Recovery Commission, to speak at national Recovery Ministries Gathering

You are invited to the 35th annual Gathering  of The Recovery Ministries of the Episcopal Church at Cathedral of All Souls in Asheville, North Carolina, September 26-29. The program begins Wednesday evening with Compline and a 12-step meeting. This gathering will include noted speakers - including the Rev. Jan Brown of Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, who co-chairs our diocesan Addictions & Recovery Commission. There will also be recovery workshops, bluegrass music, a tour of the Biltmore Estate. Registration for the Gathering is $250; scholarships are available. Click here for more information and registration.

ChurchNext to offer live, online Bible studies

Starting in September ChurchNext will launch three new, 'live' Bible classes that you can take by computer anywhere in the world. They're taught on the ChurchNext platform, incorporating zoom meeting technology. You can take a class individually or with your group.

There will be three six-week courses:

• Heretics in Good Company, led by Scott Gunn and Melody Shobe
• The Bible and Racial Justice, led by Kelly Brown Douglas
• The Bible and Evangelism, led by Marcus Halley

These classes are taught live - they begin September 12, from 8 to 9 p.m. Eastern Time. You can sign up now and you'll get an email shortly before the class begins with instructions on how to participate. These courses are free to subscribing ChurchNext congregations, dioceses, and individuals who purchase a $9/mo ChurchNext subscription.

Boys Home students participate in Uganda mission trip with Galilee, Virginia Beach

By The Rev. Anne Grizzle, Chaplain, Boys Home of Virginia

 

Boys Home is in fact a mission, but part of what we do on "the hill" is to encourage our students to spread their kindness and caring beyond the boundaries of our community. 

 

	Boys Home student Christian and   his new Ugandan friend.

This summer, three of our students practiced their missionary spirit on a trip to Uganda. Evans, Nikki, and Christian, along with two houseparents, Deborah Darcus and Milliyon Fesseha, joined Galilee, Virginia Beach, and made the trek to Uganda! 

 

The group served at the Otino Waa Children's Village for the first four days. As part of Solar Light for Africa, the group helped install solar lights in the village. As a way to bring fun to the children of the orphanage, the group spent one day offering a field day filled with soccer, face painting, and many games. The following evening was movie night, and the final evening was a dance night. The students learned that dance is a way of saying goodbye in Africa. Boys Home student Evans won the dance contest!

 

Next, they had the privilege of spending two days at the Chobe Safari Lodge, within Murchison Falls National Park. There, they were able to experience the amazing wildlife of sub-Saharan Africa! The group was very excited to see elephants, giraffes, water buffalo, hippos, and monkeys! 

 

	Boys Home student Evans joins the dancing.

Next on their agenda was to visit two other children's schools, where they installed and checked on lights. One of the schools was a school for the deaf. The Boys Home students learned how important light is at night because this is how the students could see in order to communicate using sign language.

 

When asked about the highlights of the trip, Evans responded with "I was in Africa!" Houseparent Debbie Darcus said she found the trip inspirational as they bonded with the children in Uganda and witnessed the great faith of each of them! She also said how helpful, kind, respectful, and hardworking the students from Boys Home were.

 

Judging by the smiles on all of their faces when they talked about their time together, it is clear that this was a trip where they not only gave, but they also received. 

Jackson-Feild Behavioral Health Services elects new officers and trustees

At its annual meeting, Jackson-Feild Board of Trustees elected new officers: T. Darley Adamson, III of Richmond - President; William H. Poarch of Emporia - Vice-President; Anne G. Greever of Richmond - Secretary; and Robert B. Wynne of Richmond and Blacksburg - Treasurer.

 

Five new trustees were also elected to serve on the board.

• Beverley Coleman of Petersburg has extensive experience in state and local government working in business development. A graduate of Virginia State University, Coleman has worked for Chesterfield County, Historic Jackson Ward Association, and the Department of Housing and Community Development helping residents as well as businesses. With her talents and background, Coleman will serve on JFBHS' development committee.
• Dr. Muriel A. Hawkins brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to JFBHS. Currently an Associate Provost and Professor of Educational Leadership at Virginia State University, Hawkins has more than 40 years' experience in higher education as an administrator, faculty member and allied health practitioner. She has served on numerous civic boards and professional educational organizations.
• Dr. Leslie W. Rose, III, a specialist in internal medicine, treated the children at Richmond's Virginia Home for Boys and Girls for over 25 years. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond, his MD from the Medical College of Virginia, and his MBA from the University of Richmond. Rose has devoted his life to taking care of others and particularly enjoys helping children.
• Anne W. Hill currently manages professional malpractice claims for the Virginia office of Minnesota Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company. Prior to her insurance career, Hill was a Trust and Estate/Tax attorney for McGuire Woods in Richmond. She received her undergraduate degree from James Madison University, and her MBA and JD from the University of Richmond. Hill lives in Goochland and is active at Gayton Baptist Church where she serves on the Finance Committee and is Vice-President of the  Missions Counsel.
• The Rev. James W. Browder, III currently lives in Courtland where he serves as Vicar at St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Browder is also a social worker at East Pavilion Nursing Home located at Southampton Memorial Hospital in Franklin VA. Browder earned his undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University, MEd at the University of Virginia, and his MDiv at Virginia Theological Seminary. In addition to a number of memberships, Browder is a trustee of the Ridley Foundation, and a member of the Ethics Committee of Southampton Memorial Hospital.

Upcoming session trains advocates, allies, ambassadors for refugee resettlement ministry

Registration is now open for "Love God, Love Neighbor," a three-day training course for clergy and laity that is designed to equip Episcopalians to be advocates, allies, and ambassadors for refugees and the ministry of refugee resettlement.  

 

Sponsored by Episcopal Migration Ministries, "Love God, Love Neighbor" will be held Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 11-13, at Christ Church Cathedral in Louisville, KY. Information and registration are here. Registration fee of $150 does not include housing or transportation to conference.  

 

The training provides an in-depth exploration of the global displacement crisis, the United States refugee policy, how refugee resettlement works, faith-based advocacy for refugees, and organizing to welcome and support refugees in your home community. The gathering brings together people not only from across The Episcopal Church, but also from ecumenical and lay partners to learn from one another as we explore different local contexts as they relate to refugee resettlement. The result is an invaluable opportunity to build community and relationships that continue on after the training ends.