Be the first to have a 2016 Camp Chanco t-shirt!

NEW for 2016 Chanco is offering Winter Camp January 15-17, 2016.  Many of our Camp Chanco counselors will be returning to provide camp programming (minus aquatics, of course!) to our campers for a weekend of fun in God's great outdoors! Archery, low ropes course, zip lines, crafts, fun skits and games are just a few of the fun camp activities that will be provided. This session is for ages 7-12 and offers our youngest campers a chance to return to Chanco during the school year, invite a new friend and/or try Chanco for the first time before attending a full session next summer! Free 2016 summer camp t-shirts for all who attend! The cost is $125 and registration is live at www.chanco.org. Questions? Contact Executive Director Gareth Kalfas at director@chanco.org or 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626).  

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori: I am deeply grateful for what god has been up to in the midst of our journey together

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has issued the following statement:  "The Episcopal Church has come a long way in the last 10 years.  We are no longer consumed by internal conflict over various social issues.  We are clearer about who we are - a multinational church, with congregations in 17 nations, worshipping in countless different languages, thriving in international, immigrant, and multicultural contexts everywhere, and discovering the abundant life that comes in turning outward to love the neighbors nearby and far away.  We are far more conscious about our vocation as partners in the mission of God to reconcile and heal the world, particularly shaped by the Five Anglican Marks of Mission.  We are holding our identity as Episcopal Christians a bit more confidently, even in the midst of our diversity.  We are also more willing to hold that identity lightly and gracefully in engaging other Christians and people of other religious traditions, searching for what we dream of in common - shalom, the Reign of God, a more just and peaceful world, with abundant life for all creation.

I am deeply grateful for what God has been up to in the midst of our journey together, and I look forward to seeing how this church of the middle way will continue to lead and partner as we travel the road home, into God's fullest dream of abundant life for all.  I thank the people of this Church and beyond for your prayers over the last nine years - especially in recognition that we do this work together, never alone.  May God bless the next chapter of The Episcopal Church's engagement in God's mission, as we go together into Galilee!"

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

Emmanuel, Hampton
heavenly Father, we pray for guidance to help us fulfill our baptismal covenant and responsibility as stewards of your gifts and word. help us to attend to the needs of others and focus on the number of lives changed for the better as a result of our inreach, outreach, and all o four ministries. We recognize that we will face challenges and we will rely on your teachings, love and blessings to help us maintain the strength and compassion to serve our community, each other and you as we work through trials and tribulations. Through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

All Saints, Virginia Beach
God of wisdom, God of grace, we give you thanks for the life and witness of All Saints, Virginia Beach. We pray for a continuation of faithful witness to youth, children, and families of all ages so that all may know Christ's love and make Christ known through worship, music, formation and outreach  all to the glory of God and the furtherance of God's Kingdom. All this we pray through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Christ and St. Luke's, Norfolk
Blessed are you, O Lord our God, Sovereign of the Universe. You have created us and sustained us, and allowed us to reach this moment. For this and your many blessings, we are forever grateful. Please guide and bless all those who answer your call in this church, especially as we consider the future of Christ and St. Luke's Church community. Enliven them to openly listen and respond to your indwelling Holy Spirit; in themselves and in other. Strengthen their bonds of communal love and service. When they doubt, tire or disagree in their work, let them be open to discerning your guidance, and be centered in serving you to make plans and decisions in harmony with your reign on earth. Protect us and keep us attentive to the needs of our clergy, our leaders, our staff, our members, our neighbors, and ourselves. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

More than Sad: Suicide Prevention Education

Michelle Peterson, co-founder and president of The Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to preventing suicide, will be our featured speaker at CE-NET on Thursday, November 12, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at the Diocesan Office in Newport News. 

 

Michelle will be sharing a suicide prevention program that has clear relevance for faith communities. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for young people ages 15-24. Michelle's session will educate us about suicide and prompt us to consider how our faith communities can take part in reducing teen suicide. The program has been designed to increase the understanding of the problem of teen suicide, identify risk factors, and highlight warning signs of youth suicide, so that adults who work with youth are better prepared to identify and refer students who may be at risk.

 

Ms. Peterson is committed to increasing the number and quality of suicide prevention programs provided for adolescents in the high school and middle school years and presents depression awareness and suicide prevention programs for teens, families, and those who work with them. Michelle is a survivor of suicide. In 2014, her daughter, Sarah, died by suicide at the age of fifteen. An active participant in her community, Michelle is a member of the Maury High School Booster Board and is the chairman of the Youth Advisory Committee at First Lutheran Church of Norfolk. As a parent of four children, she has volunteered with many school and community groups as a Girl Scout Leader, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School teacher, PTA Board Member, and leader or member of many committees. Michelle earned a B.A. from Michigan State University and is a former school teacher.

 

Join us for this informative and interactive session! Thursday, November 12, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Diocesan Office, 11827 Canon Blvd., Suite 101, Newport News.

Safe Church Training on Nov. 14 in Norfolk

There will be a Safe Church classroom training on Saturday, Nov. 14 at Ascension, Norfolk. Training will be from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and include both Adult and Child modules. Cost is $15 per person. Click here to register.

Live and on-demand video of Presiding Bishop installation service

The Rt. Rev. Michael Bruce Curry, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, becomes Presiding Bishop and Primate on November 1.

The Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) in honor of the 27th Presiding Bishop on Saturday, October 31 at 11 am Eastern at the Armory in Washington, DC. A live webcast of the Vigil Celebration will be available at www.episcopalchurch.org.

The Holy Eucharist with the Installation of the 27th Presiding Bishop and Primate will occur on Sunday, November 1 at noon at Washington National Cathedral. The service will be reflective of the comprehensiveness of the Episcopal tradition and community. Bishop Curry will preach at the service. 

The Holy Eucharist will be live webcast available here. The live webcast will be closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired. Pre-registration is not required. The webcast will also be available here. On demand video of the Eucharist will be available here. The worship bulletin will be available for downloading beginning October 23 here.

Chanco seeking members for Board of Directors

Artwork of the bluff courtesy of Christine Truxell

Do you have a passion for Chanco's ministry and a desire to see it thrive into the next generation of campers and retreat guests? Then we may have the job for you! Chanco is seeking lay and ordained persons to serve on the Board of Directors beginning service in early 2016. There possibly may be no more exciting time to be a part of Chanco's growth than now. All interested persons must be a member in good standing at an Episcopal church in our diocese. All applications are vetted through the current Chanco Board and Bishop Hollerith. Click here for an application to be sent to Executive Director Gareth Kalfas at director@chanco.org. Questions? Contact Gareth at 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626) or via email. We are grateful for our Chanco Board and the vibrant ministry they support. 

Treasurer & Administrator Lunches expanding to the Richmond area

Upcoming Treasurer and Administrator Lunches will be held:

• Thursday, Oct. 22, 12 to 1:30 p.m., at the Diocesan Office (11827 Canon Blvd., Suite 101, Newport News)
• Thursday, Nov. 5, 12 to 1:30 p.m. at St. John's, Chester (12201 Richmond St., Chester)
• Wednesday, Nov. 18, 12 to 1:30 p.m., at Galilee, Virginia Beach (3928 Pacific Ave., Virginia Beach)

This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other parish administrators and treasurers to talk about common issues - including financial management, administration, communications, and much more. Bring your own lunch; beverages will be provided. There's no agenda for this gathering - just an opportunity to get together, share, encourage, support, and ask questions. RSVP to Nancy James, njames@diosova.org.

NEW! Treasurer & Administrator Lunch expanding to include Richmond area
Comptroller Nancy James and Communications Officer Ann Turner are heading west to expand the Treasurer & Administrator Lunch groups to include the Richmond area. We'll hold our first gathering in that area on Thursday, Nov. 5, 12 to 1:30 p.m. at St. John's, Chester. If you plan to attend, RSVP to Nancy James, njames@diosova.org.

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

Trinity, Gretna and Christ Church, Danville
We pray for the homeless and unemployed in Pittsylvania County and for those elderly who are alone. We pray for the spread of the Gospel in our area and for justice among all peoples. We especially pray for the Holy Spirit to stir up all Christians to live their faith in their daily lie and works. Amen.

St. Stephen's, Norfolk and Mission of the Holy Spirit
God of light and life, break open the good news for us, be with us in our worship , homes and community. Remind us that your light is victorious over darkness. Remind us that we must work to heal pain we face in this world. Strengthen us in our service to you, O Lord, our God. Amen.

2016 Healthcare Open Enrollment is Nov. 4-20

2016 Open Enrollment for clergy and lay employees participating in medical and dental plans is Nov. 4-20, 2015. During the Medical Trust's Open Enrollment period:

• Current plan members may change their plan selections for the following year
• Eligible non-participating employees have the option to join a plan
• Eligible non-participating dependents may be added to a member's plan without the need of a qualifying event

 Click here for complete information, including costs and plan comparisons.

 

If you have questions about Open Enrollment, please contact Canon for Administration the Rev. Canon Ed Tracy, 757-213-3378 or etracy@diosova.org.

Fish tales from Jackson-Feild Homes

Don Lancaster, host of Fishing Tidewater, and a Jackson-Feild resident fishing.

For the boys and girls at Jackson-Feild, an annual rite of fall is a saltwater fishing trip at the Buckroe Beach Fishing Pier in Hampton. Old Point Bank sponsors the event in conjunction with the City of Hampton Roads Parks and Recreation.

 

The young anglers - none of whom had ever been saltwater fishing - arrived bright and early and ready to fish using rods, tackle and bait provided by Old Point Bank. Don Lancaster and Matt Smith (hosts of the Fishing Tidewater radio show), Al Nazaruk, and Dan Minnick volunteered their expertise and served as mentors.   Don provided a brief "Fishing 101" lesson in which he showed the boys and girls how to bait hooks, protect their hands from the fins, and then release the hooked fish.

 

According to one enthusiastic participant, the kids caught "a bazillion fish," releasing most but keeping enough to fill a cooler to bring back to campus for dinner. The new anglers had so much fun that did not want to leave.

When asked why he volunteers each year, Lancaster responded "These youngsters have had so many challenges in their lives. It does your heart good to see them have such a good time enjoying a simple pleasure." 

New online classes from ChurchNext

ChurchNext allows you to learn from expert teachers in Scripture, liturgy, and important Christian topics while interacting in a safe, online environment that's convenient, engaging, and affordable. Check out these new offerings from ChurchNext: 

Approaching Scripture with Vicki Garvey is a terrific introduction to the Scriptures from one of the best Bible teachers in the mainline church. It's available in both For Individuals and For Groups formats.

A Christian Response to Gun Violence is now available in For Individuals and For Groups formats.

Can online learning add to your spiritual growth? Read an answer to that question in this ChurchNext blog post.

Liturgical resource for Day of Repentance & Reconciliation

Annual Council Resolution R-1 (2013) resolved that "November 2, 2014, All Souls Day, will be designated as the 'Day of Repentance and Reconciliation' in the Diocese of Southern Virginia and parishes will annually hold this observance during the octave of All Saints."

We encourage all parishes to live into R-1 and plan a meaningful service during the octave of All Saints. In the diocesan service we used a story format.  "Repentance, Reconciliation and Healing: A liturgical resource for congregations" follows the format of Holy Women, Holy Men. This booklet offers several options for readings and psalms.  

We shared our diocesan reconciliation service with St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Clay City, Kansas, which used the liturgy on Sept. 20 for a service of repentance, healing and reconciliation to acknowledge the mistreatment of the only African-American member in the church's 134-year history, Mai DeKonza, who died in 1959. Read more about this service here.

If you need further assistance or have questions, please contact Canon Caroline Black, cblack@diosova.org, or a member of the Repairers of the Breach Commission.  

Jan Brown named to Episcopal Church Commission on Impairment and Leadership

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has announced the members of the newly-formed Episcopal Church Commission on Impairment and Leadership. They include Jan Brown from the Diocese of Southern Virginia. Brown is a member of the board of Episcopal Recovery Ministries and co-Director of SpiritWorks Foundation, a recovery community organization serving individuals affected by the disease of addiction. The members were appointed by Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori in consultation with President of the House of Deputies the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings.

Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori said, "I pray that this body will help us foster a culture of open awareness and learning about addiction as well as fierce commitment to healing of body, mind, soul, and community."

The enabling resolutions charge the Commission to serve as "an independent commission to explore the canonical, environmental, behavioral and procedural dimensions of matters involving the serious impairment of individuals serving as leaders in the Church, with special attention to issues of addiction and substance abuse." The commission also must prepare a report to "include recommendations for both action and further review, as appropriate, in order to clarify lines of authority, to ensure mutual accountability, and to promote justice, well-being and safety within both the Church and the world."

Click here for more information.

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

Grace, Norfolk
God our Father, we pray for your forgiveness and we pray for hope, courage and strength to stand for social justice. We ask for your blessings for continued growth of our church, we pray for the healing of divided communities that, with your blessings, we may be one. Heavenly Father, to you we submit our prayers. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Galilee, Virginia Beach
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your love and redemption experienced in and through Galilee Church. We ask you, Lord, to lead, shield and anoint us to take joy in every task you set before us and to live more deeply into our mission and renewal. Amen.

ECW Fall Annual Meeting: Focus on Breast Cancer Awareness

Join us Saturday, October 17, for the ECW Fall Annual Meeting at St. Timothy's, Clarksville. Molly Kratt, an advocate for young women with cancer, will speak. Please bring a scarf as a gift for women who battle cancer. Molly will share the latest scarf fashion tips. We will elect and install new board members. And we will have an ingathering of Jackson-Feild Homes and the Boys Home of Virginia wish list items collected for God Bless the Children, the ECW's 2015-2016 Outreach Project. Contact Louise Boss, corresponding secretary, to register for the meeting at 757-678-5331 or louiseboss@exede.net , by October 9. The $10 registration fee includes lunch

 

Follow ECW on Facebook

Thanks to Megan-Drew Tiller, Church Relations at Boys Home of Virginia, the ECW of the Diocese of Southern Virginia joined Facebook on Oct. 5. Find us on Facebook here and like us!

Women-to-Women meeting Oct. 12

Women-to-Women is a ministry with Mothers' Union of the Diocese of Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is responding the gender-based violence in the region through vocational and literacy training, support, love and friendship. Women-to-Women will meet at 7 p.m. on Monday, October 12 at 1323 Lafayette Blvd., Norfolk. Do join us as we plan ways to support our sisters in the Congo Diocese of Bukavu! Call Susan Broaddus at 757-623-0205 for information and directions.

Clergy transitions

The Rev. Mignon (Sarah) Brockenbrough left Bruton Parish, Williamsburg to accept a call in Diocese of Virginia, 9/20/2015

The Rev. Mark Riley began as Assistant Rector at St. John's, Hampton, 9/21/2015

The Rev. Terrence Walker resigned as Long Term Supply Priest at Trinity, South Hill and All Saints, South Hill, 9/26/2015

The Rev. Mary (Mimi) Lacey will begin as Rector of Emmanuel, Virginia Beach, 11/1/2015

National Church Administration Day: Technology Impact workshop

The Church Network is a professional association of churches and individuals throughout the United States that provides resource materials, training , professional certification, and networking opportunities for anyone serving Christ through ministry leadership and administration. We invite leaders from all local churches and church-related bodies to join the Tidewater Chapter on Wednesday October 14, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Calvary Revival Church (5833 Poplar Hall Drive, Norfolk) for National Church Administration Day. The theme is Technology Impact and will include sessions on Technology and Security, Why Go Mobile?, and Media Matters. The event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be served. Registration is required no later than Monday, October 12 by contacting Sha Simmons at ssimmons@calvarynn.com or 757-886-7512. Please indicate name, phone number and email address of each attendee.

Finding Grace in Race, part 2: Cultural Bias

Finding Grace in Race is a public lecture series at Richmond Hill retreat center designed to encourage open and honest dialogue around issues of race and justice.

The second lecture in this series will be "Cultural Bias"  presented by Dr. Allen Lewis  on Monday, October 26 at 7:30 p.m. Lewis will explore the definition of cultural bias, how people interface with difference, and steps to manage bias. Lewis is Head of JMU Department of Health Sciences and author of We Are All Racists: The Truth about Cultural Bias.
The 45 minute lecture will be followed by facilitated conversation and group processing time among the audience. The evening begins with worship at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., lecture at 7:30 p.m. The requested donation of $20 includes both dinner and the lecture. To register, please contact DeBorah Cannady at retreats@richmondhillva.org or by phone at 804-783-7903.  Click here for more information about the series.

Winter Camp at Chanco

Many of our campers grades 6-12 enjoy returning to Chanco during the school year for events such as October Weekend, Happening, November Weekend, and May Weekend. However, until now there has been no opportunity for our youngest campers to return to Chanco during the school year! We are now offering WINTER CAMP for our youngest campers (ages 7-12). Winter Camp will be held January 15-17, 2016, costs $125 and will involve many of the most loved traditional camp activities such as low ropes activities, zip lines, archery, crafts, evening programs etc. Campers will sleep "lock in style" in sleeping bags in conference center meeting rooms and some of your favorite summer staff will be returning to help lead this fantastic camp weekend. Winter Camp is the perfect opportunity to reunite with your old camp friends, enjoy the gorgeous outdoors of Chanco, and/or introduce a younger camper to Chanco before a one-week or two-week session next summer! Come join us for this fantastic new event! Questions? Contact Executive Director Gareth Kalfas at director@chanco.org or 888-7CHANCO (888-724-2626). Registration is live at www.chanco.org. We can't wait to see you back or for the first time!

United Thank Offering

Our God is always more ready to hear than we are to pray and to give more than we either desire or deserve. Give to your United Thank Offering Blue Box this week as God gives to you.

 

The United Thank Offering has been around for 125 years, and sometimes people think of UTO as something only little old ladies still cling to, something out of date and fading from the modern world. But the goal of encouraging daily thankfulness and generosity in our lives is far from outdated, and that IS the main goal of UTO -- not just collecting money, but creating thankful people.

 

Every Sunday in our liturgy we say it is "right, and a good and joyful thing to give God thanks." It is our duty to give thanks, but like so many Christian guidelines, what God asks of us turns out also to be good for us and makes us happy. Quite a lot of research has been done on the effects of thankfulness in our lives, and the list of its effects on the thankful person is impressive. Thankful people have stronger immune systems; fewer aches and pains; lower blood pressure; better sleep; more joy, pleasure, optimism, and happiness; are more forgiving; and feel less lonely. A good and joyful thing, indeed!

 

But like other Christian duties, thankfulness needs to be cultivated until it becomes a habit, and your UTO Blue Box can help you with that. Every day, take just a moment to name something you're thankful for, that day. It can be as big as the love of your family or as small as the beauty of an autumn leaf. Take a few seconds to put some money into your Blue Box to share that blessing with others around the world. The more moments of gratitude we build into our days, the more we are likely to see the benefits of thankfulness - to ourselves and to the world.

 

The United Thank Offering is not out of date -- it's as current as social media. Like us on Facebook!

Educational webinar examines the global refugee crisis

The Episcopal Church will present a 90 minute webinar on October 15 focusing on the global refugee crisis, U.S. resettlement and how Episcopalians can be involved in this ministry of welcome. Presented by Episcopal Migration Ministries and Episcopal Public Policy Network, the live webinar will begin at 8 pm Eastern.

For more than 75 years, The Episcopal Church has welcomed refugees to the United States, helping them find safety, security and new lives as American citizens. Now, with at least 60 million people displaced from their homes and lives, the global community is facing the largest refugee crisis since the end of World War II.

"Episcopalians from across the church have been reaching out to us on a daily basis asking how they can be involved in mission and advocacy that supports refugees," Deborah Stein, Episcopal Migration Ministries Director. "We hope that this webinar will inspire individuals, congregations, and dioceses to engage this life-saving work in new ways."

Pre-registration is required.  Register for the webinar here. The webinar will be available on-demand following the event. Click here for more information.

Episcopal Relief & Development responding to Syrian refugee crisis

Episcopal Relief & Development is engaging the Syrian crisis through support to agencies in Syria, to the Diocese of Jerusalem's Holy Land Institute for the Deaf and in support of large numbers of people traveling out of crisis areas into Europe.  The agency is in contact with Anglican Communion partners through The Episcopal Church's Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe and The Church of England's Diocese in Europe, as well as interfaith partners such as Islamic Relief.

"Our relationships with Anglican Communion and ecumenical organizations enable us to contribute efficiently and effectively to the relief of those fleeing the Syrian conflict," said Abagail Nelson, Episcopal Relief & Development's Senior Vice President for Programs.  "These agencies are leveraging our support to meet critical needs for basic supplies, as well as language and cultural mediation to lower the anxiety of displacement and help people access available services."

In Italy, St. Paul's Within the Walls Episcopal Church in Rome operates the Joel Nafuma Refugee Center as its primary outreach ministry, providing a safe space for 200-250 individuals per day to access legal, vocational, medical and language services.  Episcopal Relief & Development support will enable the Center to expand its ministry to serve the increased number of displaced people seeking safety and assistance.

The Church of England's Diocese in Europe plans to distribute emergency funds to churches in Greece, Italy, France and Hungary that are responding to the needs of displaced people for food, clothing, shelter materials and medical supplies.  The Diocese is reportedly working with Orthodox churches in these areas as well, which expands the capacity to ensure needs are met.

Islamic Relief is active on the island of Lesvos, Greece, where Syrians fleeing the conflict arrive at the northern town of Molyvos, closest to Turkey, and travel to the southeastern town of Mitilini in order to take the ferry to the mainland.  Arabic-speaking Islamic Relief staff, working with other organizations and local volunteers, are offering food and guidance to those arriving, including information about transportation options such as buses to save the 40-mile journey on foot.

Please continue to pray for all those fleeing violence and unrest. Contributions to the Syria Response Fund will help Syrians fleeing violence as the country's civil war enters its fifth year.

Click here for resources to help congregations and individuals respond to the crisis, including:

• Prayer for Syria
• Episcopal Migration Ministries
• Episcopal Public Policy Network
• UNHCR toolkit for teaching young people about migration and refugees

Karibu sana! (You are very welcome!)

By Andy Russell; Bruton Parish, Williamsburg; YASC Missionary   

Andy Russell, a member of Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, is serving as missionary with the Young Adult Service Corps in Dodoma, Tanzania. You can follow him on his blog, Looking Out, Looking In.

Singing and dancing in the church at Mwitikira.

So far I have visited three villages during my time here in Tanzania: Nzali, Chilonwa, and Mwitikira...
While I can hardly claim to be an expert, each village visit followed a similar trajectory. To start, we were welcomed by dozens of people, shaking hands, exchanging profuse greetings the moment we hopped out of the land rover. The rector of the parish then received us at his home for conversation and food. Samosas and these lightly fried doughnut things for breakfast, Chicken in a sort of broth and rice for lunch. Afterwards, we typically went down to the church where we were formally welcomed by the rector.  An opportunity for us to introduce ourselves, who we are and what we do, to the parishioners followed. Gift-giving and performances of song and dance from various church groups rounded out the visits.

These parishes are models of incredible Christian hospitality.  Not going to lie, I felt pretty uncomfortable at first. The overwhelming welcome of a large group of people, getting dance-dragged through the crowd by an older gentleman trumpeting what looked like an antelope horn, being served first before elders of consequence in the life of the parish, receiving simple and elegant cloth as a gift-me, some young adult from the US! At the risk of sounding sacrilegious, this hospitality seems a bit like God's grace: a free gift, in many ways undeserved but completely accessible. Click here to read more. 

United Thank Offering

"Our change, changes lives"

 

United Thank Offering (UTO) is a ministry of the Episcopal Church for the mission of the whole church. Through United Thank Offering, men, women, and children nurture the habit of giving daily thanks to God. These prayers of thanksgiving start when we recognize and name our many daily blessings. Those who participate in UTO discover that thankfulness leads to generosity. United Thank Offering is entrusted to promote thank offerings, to receive the offerings, and to distribute the UTO monies to support mission and ministry throughout the Episcopal Church and in invited Provinces of the Anglican Communion in the developing world. "Our change, changes lives."

 

At the beginning of each month, we will feature an article about United Thank Offering, and each week we will include a statement of gratitude and thanksgiving meant to give you a reason to drop a coin or two into your UTO Blue Box. If you need a Blue Box, please contact Joyce Douglas, Province III UTO Representative, amielonie@aol.com.  

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

Grace, Yorktown
Lord God, maker of heaven and earth, we pray that you would make us a brightly shining beacon of your love and care. Guide and direct both our hearts and hands to celebrate what is whole and heal what remains broken, through Jesus Christ who with you and the Holy spirit lives and reigns, now and for ever. Amen.

Ascension, Norfolk
Heavenly Father, we give thanks and praise for your presence in our lives at Ascension. May you continue to guide and bless us. We ask these things in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Treasurer & Administrator Lunch on Oct. 22

The next Treasurer and Administrator Lunch will be held at the Diocesan Office, 11827 Canon Blvd., Suite 101, Newport News, on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other parish administrators and treasurers to talk about common issues. Bring your own lunch; beverages will be provided. There's no agenda for this gathering - just an opportunity to get together, share, encourage, support, and ask questions. RSVP to Nancy James, njames@diosova.org.

Registration open for November Weekend and Happening #63

Happening #63 - Nov. 6-8
Happening is an experiential weekend retreat developed by teens for teens. Come to Chanco on the James Nov. 6-8 and see what it's like to be transformed by God's love! Open to all youth in grades 10-12 and adult advisors who have never attended a Happening program. Click here for more information and registration.

November Weekend - Nov. 13-15

Make new friends at this Fall retreat at Chanco! November Weekend includes music, games, activities, socials, small group discussions and amazing worship! Open to all youth in grades 6-9 and their adult advisors. November 13-15 at Chanco on the James. Click here for more information and registration.  

RVA Talks @ St. Marks - a series on race, reconciliation and healing

October 18 at 6 p.m., St. Mark's, Richmond

As we mark the one-year anniversary of Michael Brown's death it seems the country has lapsed into a tragic cycle of violence - questionable police action resulting in the death of black men, women, and children in Cleveland, New York, Baltimore, Cincinnati, and other cities and towns across the nation. What can we do to break this cycle? What can we as members of a faith community do to help promote justice, healing, and reconciliation?

In St. Louis the community of Christ Church Cathedral asked itself and stepped out to help answer this question. Under the leadership of the Very Rev. Mike Kinman, members of the Cathedral community joined with members of other area congregations to press for justice, to work for peace and to begin the long hard job of racial understanding and reconciliation. They continue as a community to work today to promote justice, healing, understanding, and peace.

Rev. Mike Kinman will be at St. Mark's Episcopal Church on October 18 to share with us and those who gather in this place his experience of Ferguson, his lessons learned and his observations on what we as members of a faith community can do to end the cycle of violence, death and destruction. We invite you to join us at 6 p.m. on October 18 for his presentation.

St. Mark's Episcopal Church is located at 520 N. Boulevard, Richmond, VA. There is ample free surface parking behind the church. For more information visit our website: www.stmarksrva.org, or call the church, 804-358-4771.

Finding Grace in Race, part 2: Cultural Bias

Finding Grace in Race is a public lecture series at Richmond Hill retreat center designed to encourage open and honest dialogue around issues of race and justice.

The second lecture in this series will be "Cultural Bias"  presented by Dr. Allen Lewis  on Monday, October 26 at 7:30 p.m. Lewis will explore the definition of cultural bias, how people interface with difference, and steps to manage bias. Lewis is Head of JMU Department of Health Sciences and author of We Are All Racists: The Truth about Cultural Bias.
The 45 minute lecture will be followed by facilitated conversation and group processing time among the audience. The evening begins with worship at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., lecture at 7:30 p.m. The requested donation of $20 includes both dinner and the lecture. To register, please contact DeBorah Cannady at retreats@richmondhillva.org or by phone at 804-783-7903. Click here for more information about the series.

Chanco is not just for kids - Cursillo

Cursillo is a movement within the Episcopal Church and is a method to grow closer to Jesus Christ, build community among the faithful, and strengthen leaders within the church. Cursillo weekends occur three times annually in the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia.  There is a fall Co-ed weekend (men and women attend, but small groups are single gender); and a Women's weekend and Men's weekend both held in the spring.  All weekends are held at Chanco on the James and are developed by a team of leaders who have experienced the weekend themselves and are excited to share that experience with others. The upcoming Co-Ed weekend is October 15-18 and the time is closing on registering for this amazing retreat.  If meeting new friends, learning more about the Episcopal Church, and sharing worship, fellowship, faith and fun with others from throughout our diocese sounds like it might be for you, visit www.cursillodsv.org for more information or contact the Rector for the October weekend, Richard Toll, at ritoll@cox.net.  The Men's weekend will be April 14-17, 2016 with Rector Joe Jerauld leading team and the Women's weekend will be April 28-May 1, 2016 with Rector Debbie Hazzard. We hope to see you at one of these fantastic adult retreats at Chanco!

Day of Repentance & Reconciliation is fast approaching

 Annual Council Resolution R-1 (2013) resolved that "November 2, 2014, All Souls Day, will be designated as the 'Day of Repentance and Reconciliation' in the Diocese of Southern Virginia and parishes will annually hold this observance during the octave of All Saints."

We have just shared our diocesan reconciliation service with a parish in Clay City, Kansas, as they begin a process of reconciliation. We encourage all parishes to live into R-1 and plan a meaningful service during the octave of All Saints. In the diocesan service we used a story format.  "Repentance, Reconciliation and Healing: A liturgical resource for congregations" follows the format of Holy Women, Holy Men. This booklet offers several options for readings and psalms.  

If you need further assistance or have questions, please contact Canon Caroline Black, cblack@diosova.org, or a member of the Repairers of the Breach Commission.   

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

St. James, Warfield
Heavenly Father, bless your children as they continue this path of life. Bless their feet, their hearts, and their souls. Bless all they come in contact with so they can come to know you. So, Heavenly Father, continue to grace us with your love that sustains us day to day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Emmanuel, Franklin
Lord of all mercy and giver of good gifts, we offer up to you the concerns and needs of our church and community. We are beset by poverty, dwindling economic resources, and educational decline. Our hope is in you, Lord! Lead us into wholeness, prosperity, and renewed health. Enlarge our congregation to the glory of your name. Amen.

Lecture series: Finding Grace in Race

Finding Grace in Race is a public lecture series at Richmond Hill retreat center designed to encourage open and honest dialogue around issues of race and justice. The series begins with "Theology of Race"  with the Rev. Ben Campbell on Monday, September 28 at 7:30 p.m. This lecture will explore the theological underpinnings of race in our culture. The Rev. Ben Campbell is an Adjunct Pastor at Richmond Hill and author of Richmond's Unhealed History. The 45 minute lecture will be followed by facilitated conversation and group processing time among the audience. The evening begins with worship at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., lecture at 7:30 p.m. The requested donation of $20 includes both dinner and the lecture. To register, please contact DeBorah Cannady at retreats@richmondhillva.org or by phone at 804-783-7903. Click here for more information about the series.

Virginia Feeds Kids: Addressing childhood hunger

The Virginia Lutheran Synod is hosting an interfaith initiative to address childhood hunger in Virginia. Virginia Feeds Kids is an ecumenical and interagency initiative. Diocesan Canon for Formation Caroline Black attended the meeting in July and the next gathering is scheduled for November 18. Click here for more information and contact Caroline at cblack@diosova.org if you and/or your parish would like to participate. 

Living Waters: An interfaith summit

Living Waters: Wading in is an interfaith day of prayers, music, inspiring speakers, and lively collaborative workshops. it will be held at the Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach on October 7, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Regardless of where your house of worship is in its "greening" journey, you'll leave prepared to lead your congregation to the next level of stewardship. Learn how other houses of worship across all faiths have grown in their care of creation. Meet others who share your interest in working together to protect and heal our waters. Get more information and register at www.cbf.org/LivingWaters. 

Keeping in Tune with God: Ecumenical clergy retreat

Keeping in Tune with God: Listening Hearts Discernment for Clergy is an ecumenical retreat for clergy based on the Listening Hearts book. The retreat will be held November 16-18 at the Bishop Claggett Center in Adamstown, MD. The retreat will be led by the Rt. Rev. Robert W. Ihloff.

Silence, song, imaginative engagement with scripture, and contemplative sharing in small groups weave together to help participants see how professional commitments can become more harmonious with their personal life and their relationship with God. Click here for more information and registration.

Call to Action: Healthcare as a Moral Imperative

Today, nearly 400,000 Virginians all across the across the Commonwealth are unable to access affordable health insurance, while their neighbors across the border in Kentucky, Maryland, West Virginia and Washington, DC can.

Virginia Wesleyan College invites you to join them for A Call to Action: Healthcare as Moral Imperative on October 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Blocker Hall auditorium on the VWC campus. The event include screening of a film about the work of Remote Area Medical, an organization that provides medical and dental care in Appalachia and other underserved communities, followed by stories from local residents impacted by the health insurance coverage gap. A panel discussion with representatives from the Catholic, Jewish, Muslim & Protestant faith traditions, and an opportunity for questions and a call to action, will conclude the evening. Our panel will articulate how each faith tradition makes healthcare access a moral imperative. We will end with a Call to Action, inviting you to act on behalf of your neighbors throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia who are currently unable to access adequate healthcare.

This event is free. Click here to register.  

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

Trinity, Gretna
Lord, raise up in your church more leaders after your own heart to guide us with courage and wisdom. Give your church joy in spirit, and guide us in your ministry. Grant us your peace. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Emmanuel, Jenkins Bridge
O Lord, the giver of all good things. We give you thanks for your many blessings you have showered upon Emmanuel Church. That we, in turn, have been able to be a blessing to our parish and its community. We ask that you bless us with your continuous grace in this coming year. May prosperity of faith and spirit enrich our church members and leadership. That we may be a blessing to others this coming year. This we ask in Christ's name. Amen.

Ticket information for Nov. 1 Presiding Bishop installation service at National Cathedral

Two events will highlight the Installation of the next Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church, Bishop Michael Bruce Curry. The Rt. Rev. Michael Bruce Curry, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, was elected and confirmed to be the next Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church at the 78th General Convention on June 27. According to the Canons of The Episcopal Church, he becomes Presiding Bishop and Primate on November 1. Bishop Curry is the first African-American to be elected Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church.  Bishop Curry will be the 27th Presiding Bishop.

Saturday, October 31
All are invited to join a Vigil Celebration and Eucharist, sponsored by the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) in honor of the 27th Presiding Bishop on Saturday, October 31 at 11 am Eastern at the Armory, 2001 E. Capital St. SE in Washington, DC. The Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society will sponsor a live webcast of the Vigil Celebration at www.episcopalchurch.org.

Additional information is available here. Ticket applications for the October 31 event are available here.

Sunday, November 1
The Holy Eucharist with the Installation of the 27th Presiding Bishop will occur on Sunday, November 1 at noon Eastern at Washington National Cathedral. The Holy Eucharist with the Installation of the 27th Presiding Bishop will be live webcast available here.

Applications for tickets for available seating for the November 1 event at Washington National Cathedral will be distributed by lottery. "This selection process was adopted as the fairest way to distribute tickets to the general public, noted the Rev. Canon Michael Barlowe, chair of the Transition Committee. "Demand for tickets far exceeds the capacity of Washington National Cathedral."

Please note:
* Only one ticket per person, and each person must fill out a form here.
* There is no charge for a ticket.
* Applications will be accepted until 5 pm Eastern on Monday, September 21.
* Selections will be conducted by random drawing.
* Those allocated tickets will be notified on September 22, with further information.

Presiding Bishop's statement on refugees; ways congregations and individuals can respond to the crisis

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has issued this statement on the current worldwide refugee crisis:

"The children of Abraham have ever been reminded to care for the widow and orphan and the sojourner in their midst, who were the refugees and homeless of the time. Jesus charged his followers to care for the least of these and proclaim the near presence of the Reign of God - in other words, feed the hungry, water the thirsty, house the homeless, heal the sick, and liberate the captives. We cannot ignore the massive human suffering in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, nor in Asia and the Americas. We are our brothers' and sisters' keepers, and our lives are bound up with theirs. The churchwide ministry of Episcopalians has included refugee resettlement since the refugee crisis of World War II.  It continues today through the leadership of Episcopal Migration Ministries, and I urge your involvement, action, and support. Read about their work below, and share these opportunities with friends and co-workers. You will discover anew the power of good news in the face of the world's tragedies."

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Presiding Bishop and Primate, The Episcopal Church

Responding to the crisis

The Syrian Civil War, now in its fourth year, has unleashed a humanitarian emergency in which severe war crimes - including indiscriminate massacres, persecution of religious and ethnic minorities, sexual and gender-based violence, and other humanitarian abuses - have become widespread. According to a recent UN report, more than 4 million people (through the end of 2014) have fled their homes to escape the war in Syria, adding to a worldwide total of nearly 20 million refugees, half of whom are children. This is the largest and most widespread refugee crisis the world has known since World War II. While record numbers of people are being forced to flee, powerful images of refugees fleeing Syria are compelling the world to action.

Click here for resources and suggestions on how congregations and individuals can respond to the crisis, including:

• Prayer for Syria
• Episcopal Migration Ministries
• Episcopal Public Policy Network
• UNHCR toolkit for teaching young people about migration and refugees

Treasurer & Administrator Lunches in Virginia Beach and Newport News

The next Treasurer and Administrator Lunch will be held at Old Donation, 4449 N. Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach on Thursday, September 24 from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m.After a break for the summer, our monthly lunch gatherings are back! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other parish administrators and treasurers to talk about common issues. Bring your own lunch; beverages will be provided. There's no agenda for this gathering - just an opportunity to get together, share, encourage, support, and ask questions. RSVP to Nancy James,  njames@diosova.org. 

The next Treasurer and Administrator Lunch will be held at the Diocesan Office, 11827 Canon Blvd., Suite 101, Newport News, on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. RSVP to Nancy James, njames@diosova.org.

New issue of Diocesan Connection newsletter available online

The July-September issue of the Diocesan Connection newsletter 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, post a copy on a bulletin board or in your narthex.  

 

This issue includes:

• Bishop Hollerith's report on the 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church
• Dos Santos ministry on the Eastern Shore
• Seeds of Hope Grants help churches develop and expand social justice ministries
• Jonathan Daniels Pilgrimage
• United Thank Offering distributes over $1 million in grants

You can also download the Diocesan Connection from the News & Publications page of our website.

Learn more about how Women to Women is serving the Congo and how you can help

Women to Women serves the women in the Congo Church who are making a huge difference caring for their victimized sisters. Known as the 'worst place on earth to be a woman,' D. R. Congo has known war brought on by 20-30 militias, especially in the east where the Province has 5 of its 9 dioceses. The decimation of families and villages has been a weapon of war for close to 20 years.

Women to Women raises money to help the Mothers' Union teach catering, tailoring, literacy, and support small enterprises through micro-loans. Our group (not limited to women) will kick off the year on Monday, September 14 at 7:00 p.m. at 1323 Lafayette Blvd., #1. Please join us! Call Susan Broaddus at 757-623-0205 for directions or more information.

Praying for the churches of Southern Virginia

As part of our liturgy at Annual Council 2015, each delegation wrote a prayer for their parish. We are sharing these prayers each week in the eNews so that we all can support one another in the upcoming year.

Trinity, South Boston 

Lord God, be with your people in this parish as we seek your guidance in doing your will in our lives, in worship, outreach in our community, in our Diocese, and in our world. Guide us always in your ways. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.  

Christ Church, Smithfield  

O God, we ask your guidance as we seek to find a new priest. Show us how to work in unity with each other as we walk with Christ in our spiritual journey together. We ask your guidance, O God, as we work in our community of Smithfield to spread Christ's love to those hurting in our area. We ask your guidance, O God, as we work in our community to bring others to Christ and become disciples with us. We ask your guidance, O God, to encourage us in our stewardship of time, talent and treasure. Amen.  

Register now for Fall Camp at Shrine Mont!

Fall Camp is an annual event hosted by the Tri-Diocesan Council on Aging. This year's camp will be Oct. 26-29 at Shrine Mont, Orkney Springs, VA. Fall Camp is an opportunity to spend time in the mountains of Virginia with other seniors (but we don't have an age limit) from across the Commonwealth and from other states. The Camp takes seriously the spiritual needs and journeys of primarily retired people, and challenges participants through keynote speakers, workshops, worship and interaction with one another. Click here for this year's Fall Camp brochure and workshop listing.

Only one Safe Church classroom training remaining this year

Are you a new vestry member? Then be sure to enroll in Safe Church Training, if you haven't already done so. Our final Safe Church classroom training will be held Sept. 19 at St. Cyprian's, Hampton. Click here for more information and registration. Registration deadline is Sept. 11.

All recommended Safe Church courses can be taken online as well. Click here to learn more. Current policy requires re-certification every three years.

YASC Missionary Andy Russell blogging from Tanzania

Twenty-seven young adults representing 21 Episcopal Church dioceses are serving as missionaries in the Young Adult Service Corps (YASC) for the 2015-2016 term in locales throughout the Anglican Communion. Andy Russell, from Bruton Parish, Williamsburg, is serving in the Diocese of Central Tanganyika, Tanzania. Andy is in Dodoma, Tanzania with The Carpenter's Kids program, which provides education to children who have lost one or both parents to HIV/AIDS. There are an estimated 40,000 of these orphans within the diocese. He's sharing his experiences via his blog, Looking Out, Looking In. You can read his latest post, a visit to the diocesan vocational school, here.

News from the Diocesan ECW

The quarterly ECW Grapevine is here! If you have news you would like included in the next issue, or would like to be added to the email list, contact Nancy Smith, nsmithwtr@aol.com. Deadline for the next issue is Oct. 31 for distribution in November. This issue includes:

• President's Letter from Nancy Sands, Diocesan ECW President
• October is UTO Ingathering Month
• October 17: Diocesan ECW Fall Annual Meeting
• God Bless the Children wish list ingathering
• Program: American Cancer Society - Bring a scarf as a gift for a cancer survivor.
• Rt. Rev. Michael Curry Says "Love Wins"
• Women-to-Women Update