Grace and peace to you from God. The consensus of the CDC and other health officials is that, along with washing your hands, social distancing is a vitally important part of mitigating the spread and severity of coronavirus (COVID-19) in our community. Social distancing means keeping away from large gatherings and creating a wider “personal bubble” when you are out in public. And most importantly, it means staying home and away from others when you are sick. These steps are essential parts of taking care of ourselves as well as loving our neighbors as ourselves.
However, the danger is that in the process of social distancing we will end up emotionally and spiritually isolating ourselves. In other words, I worry our reactions to the COVID-19 health crisis—especially reactions that are driven by fear—will only add to one of the pandemics that has gripped our society for some time, the virulent and insidious pandemic of loneliness, isolation, and despair.
Emotional and spiritual distancing isn’t going to help anyone. There is, in fact, a direct link between spiritual health and physical and emotional health. This essential connection has not diminished because there is a new and scary public health emergency. We need to maintain our spiritual connection to God and each other. The question is: how do we as a church take prudent precautions against the spread of infectious disease while maintaining a sense of community and spiritual care which imbues life with meaning and makes it worth living in the first place? This is a difficult but not impossible balance. I wrote last week about the precautions we are taking at church including wiping down high-touch surfaces before and after services, exploring alternatives to handshakes and hugs during the Peace, and increasing the amount of hand washing that goes on before Holy Communion. I also wrote about the sufficiency of only taking Communion in one kind, the bread.
At this time I want to reiterate what you have undoubtedly heard from many sources: please stay home if you are sick. Also if you are sick, let me know so that your faith community can provide you with support. This is a time for solidarity not stigma.
If you are a member of a group that is particularly at risk of serious health complications, please consider your options for spiritual and emotional support carefully. If you feel comfortable coming to church, please do so, as long as you are not sick. A second option is that I am more than willing to bring the Holy Sacrament to you in your home. I am currently healthy and will be monitoring my health carefully. With God’s sustaining help, I will be available for eucharistic visitation, pastoral visits, and prayer.
Another option is to participate in our worship services digitally. We are working to make digital options available by this weekend for those who are sick or who want to stay at home. Digital interaction is not the same thing and face-to-face interaction and participation, and it is not sufficient or sustainable in the long-term. But as a short-term stopgap it may be the best option for some to connect. Be on the lookout for links to livestreams of services and other activities.
Unless the bishop tells me otherwise, I will not be cancelling Sunday Eucharist or weekday Morning Prayer. During this difficult time we need more prayer and more sacraments, not less. As one of my friends put it, the prayers of the faithful are the most powerful tool we have in times of crisis. I stand firm in my conviction that the sacrament of the Eucharist is given by God for the healing of the whole world. It is more important than ever to continue to offer our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to God and pray for grace and healing on behalf of a broken and anguished world.
In consultation with the vestry, I will be making decisions about whether to cancel other church activities on a case-to-case basis, including Lenten group activities, Bible Study, and various committee meetings. I spoke with the Rev. Doris Rajagopal today about the Darby Mission Supper next Tuesday night. She has not cancelled the supper at this time. Assuming nothing changes in the next several days, I would like for us to go forward with providing the meal. However, I am strongly discouraging folks who are at high risk of health complications due to coronavirus from attending the meal. When the time comes we will decide with Doris whether to deliver the food and leave, or to stay with a smaller group of volunteers and help serve.
Most importantly, don’t isolate yourself from this lifegiving body, our church. Even if you cannot be physically present please reach out. Call me if you need to talk. Call each other. Let’s check in on each and make sure we’re okay. Above all else, pray for each other and for the safety and well-being of our community.
Know that God is with us in difficult times. God has not abandoned the world. Jesus came into the world as a human to live among us and to demonstrate that God’s love is in solidarity with human suffering. We are Christ’s body. We are called to demonstrate to a suffering and fearful world that God is still present with us now.
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT 10AM Holy Eucharist Limited to 20 in-person attendees Social distancing and masks required – Sign Up Watch the broadcast on our YouTube channel Service Material can be found on our website
The vestry met last Sunday and the property committee had a meeting Wednesday. A number of property related concerns were discussed, from the fact that all this snow is going to mean a big bill from the from company that plows our parking lot to a number of repair and maintenance projects at the church and at the rectory. Of course, I am never content NOT to turn everything into a theological reflection, so this got me thinking about our parish property in relationship to the themes of Lent and especially in relationship to the theme of monastic wisdom for non-monastic people like you and me. The first thing to say is that we can be grateful for our beautiful 70 year old church building. It is a gift from God and, like all such gifts, it requires good stewardship on our part. We have to care for it, or it will fall apart.
One of the marks of Christian monasticism is that monastics take several vows. These vows differ slightly depending on which Order or “flavor” of monasticism is being considered. The Most common in the Western Church is a monastery that follows the Rule of St. Benedict. This flavor of monasticism calls for three vows: fidelity to the monastic way of life, obedience to the rule and to one’s abbot/abbess (the head of the monastery), and stability. It is this last vow that comes to mind in relationship to the maintenance of our property and to our parish in general. Simply put, the vow of stability means that someone promises to stay put. [more]
You can view our live-stream on our YouTube channel. A link to this video will be posted to Facebook. To attend in person, please sign up to reserve your spot.
Sunday, February 28, 2021 – 2nd Sunday of Lent Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Tuesday, February 30, 2021 – The BCP Daily Office Every Tuesday in Lent 8:30 AM – Morning Prayer, BCP p.75 – YouTube 12:00 PM – Noonday Prayer, BCP p.103- Zoom 5:30 PM – Evening Prayer, BPC p.115 – YouTube 7:30 PM – Compline, BCP p.127 – Zoom The Rev. James Stambaugh, officiant
Sunday, March 7, 2021 – 3rd Sunday of Lent Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Zoom Complineis heldevery night at 7:30PM A brief time of prayer and checking in with other members of CHA “Zoom Compline has been really helped me through this difficult time. It’s such a great way to close the day.” – CHA Member Follow this link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/233415613?pwd=dTBDeUhrUUdSak9MS3RUaXdDSDhpUT09 or call into the meeting toll-free 1-888-475-4499 Callers will be promoted to enter this meeting ID: 233 415 613 and passcode: love
Zoom Bible Study is held every Thursday at 11AM We are just starting a combined study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God. Follow this link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/788355291?pwd=R2FQRWltZ01LWG92WGtPSm54cXJSUT09 or call 1-888-475-4499 US Toll-free You will be prompted to enter this meeting ID: 788 355 291 and passcode: love
*note: the passcode for all CHA Zoom meetings is “love”
Outreach – Up Next
Lenten Service Project Objective: To show continued support for helping with food scarcity issues in the community If you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday. Isaiah 58:10 NRSV
Darby Mission
During Lent our goal is to help stock and replenish the Darby mission Food Pantry and School Supplies. Below is a “top ten” list of items that would be required to meet the needs of Rev. Doris’ clients. Other non-perishable items also accepted. Children and Youth could be encouraged to concentrate on school supplies while the Adults of the congregation could take on the food and personal hygiene items.
School Supplies most needed: crayons, glue sticks, composition notebooks, pencils Food and Hygiene items most needed: pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, cereal, tampons
Drop off location: In the room off the church narthex. Items will be picked up on Sundays and Wednesdays. Collection will run from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Connect by Night
The Simple Supper planned for March has been postponed. Some have asked about delivering pizzas or donuts and coffee directly to the mission. You can deliver these items, or have them delivered, to:
Connect By Night 7200 Court Ave Upper Darby PA 19082
THANK YOU for your continued support of those in need in our communities.
+ Casting call for the reading of the Passion Children and adults alike are invited to participate in a pre-recorded video reading of the Passion According to St. Mark for our Palm Sunday service. We have small and large parts available, as well as several small groups (disciples, accusers, crowd, etc.) which are great opportunities for families to participate together. Please email Judi or Joe Zorc at kraft@chop.edu or zorc@chop.edu, and we will assign you a role according to your preference. You can record in your own home and submit your video to Joe by Friday, March 19th.
+ Lenten Reading – There is still time to prepare for this year’s All Parish Book Reading and Discussion. We will read a short, intriguing, and enjoyable book by Esther De Waal entitled Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict (Liturgical Press, 1984, updated 2001) There will be two opportunities to discuss this book together via Zoom on Sunday March 7th and Sunday March 21st, after the morning service. You are also welcome just to read the book on your own! You can find the book on Amazon or at an independent bookstore such as Eighth Day Books or Hearts and Minds Books.
+ Church Service Attendance – Based on guidelines from Bishop Daniel and a corresponding vote by your Vestry, beginning February 7 the maximum number of attendees will be raised to 20 persons. Masks and appropriate distancing will continue to be observed. We look forward to seeing you back at church if you feel comfortable there. Services will also continue to be livestreamed. Please note that you must pre-register to attend service to allow us to continue keeping with our safe practices. If you are serving (organist, reader, cantor, tech, usher, etc.) please remember to sign up as well.
+ Hidden in Plain Sight: The History of Slavery in Haverford Township on Wednesday, March 3 at 7 pm on Zoom. Join the Haverford Township Free Library for a presentation on the public history project Colin McCrossan, a recent graduate of McGill University, Haverford High School graduate, and township resident will present his new research about the history of slavery in Haverford Township. Come learn about this history through the eyes of: a young Black woman and girl who escaped from their slave owner in the dead of winter; a Quaker farmer who enslaved a Black man and only freed him to avoid excommunication; a Black man who freed himself from enslavement and the Irish tavern keeper who spent over two years trying to recapture him. The Haverford Township Free Library is hosting this program and welcomes all to attend, but asks that you register in advance.
+ Sunday School: Sunday School will be held online via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month for preschool (5 years old) through 8th grade. You can join Sunday School using this link (all ages welcome): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89142013163?pwd=WFpJVDlZVFJhOUVVa1gxQ2k0djVndz09 We’re looking for more teachers! If you would like to be involved in this exciting ministry, contact Peter Patton: pmpatton307@gmail.com
+ Bible Study: Every Thursday at 11AM (currently on Zoom). We are just starting a combined study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God. . Join us anytime using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/788355291?pwd=R2FQRWltZ01LWG92WGtPSm54cXJSUT09
+ One Love: Our diocese has created an online platform where you can find inspirational videos, sermons by the bishop and other clergy, and online services. Visit DioPA One Love Online: https://episcopalpa.online.church
+Eucharistic Visits: During this time, the rector and trained Eucharistic ministers may visit others to bring them the Eucharist. Meeting in outdoor spaces of homes will be preferred. Contact the rector if you would like to schedule a visit.
+Giving: You can still mail pledge contributions to the church at this time. The mail is checked regularly. You can also securely give online. Go to holyapostlespa.org and click on the “Give” button on the top right hand corner of the webpage.
+ Online Worship: Online worship continues! We will be live-streaming each Sunday at 10AM. We will be calling on our virtual choir to provide music for us, and there will be occasional readings from members at home. It’s all happening on our YouTube Channel. Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button!
+ Happy Birthday! The following folks have birthdays in the month of March. 1st Isabel Brown Aquino 2nd Nancy Haas Matt Hillis 5th Preslee Gallagher 6th Christina King Smith Mackey Vroome 26th Edmund Stambaugh 28th Jennie Mustered Christine Vroome 31st Alex Dupre
If your birthday, or the birthday of another parishioner in your family is missing, please notify the Parish Office at holyapostlespa@gmail.com
Our mailing address is: 1020 Remington Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096
The vestry met last Sunday and the property committee had a meeting Wednesday. A number of property related concerns were discussed, from the fact that all this snow is going to mean a big bill from the from company that plows our parking lot to a number of repair and maintenance projects at the church and at the rectory. Of course, I am never content NOT to turn everything into a theological reflection, so this got me thinking about our parish property in relationship to the themes of Lent and especially in relationship to the theme of monastic wisdom for non-monastic people like you and me. The first thing to say is that we can be grateful for our beautiful 70 year old church building. It is a gift from God and, like all such gifts, it requires good stewardship on our part. We have to care for it, or it will fall apart.
One of the marks of Christian monasticism is that monastics take several vows. These vows differ slightly depending on which Order or “flavor” of monasticism is being considered. The Most common in the Western Church is a monastery that follows the Rule of St. Benedict. This flavor of monasticism calls for three vows: fidelity to the monastic way of life, obedience to the rule and to one’s abbot/abbess (the head of the monastery), and stability. It is this last vow that comes to mind in relationship to the maintenance of our property and to our parish in general. Simply put, the vow of stability means that someone promises to stay put. Benedictine monks or nuns do not move around much. Most commit to staying in the same monastery for their entire life as a monastic. This is because they recognize that there is spiritual value in staying in one place. It is good for one’s soul to be content with the circumstances at hand, and to commit to cultivating a place for the long haul. There is a certain humility involved. Also, it gives one the opportunity to really pay attention to your surroundings, to your soul, and finally to God. This is counter-cultural in a society, like ours, that is extremely mobile. I mean, here I am writing 1500 miles away from the place where I was born! But, the whole notion of a parish is founded on the principle of stability—on a commitment to a singular place, a singular, bounded area, a neighborhood.
I love the way that Eugene Peterson paraphrased the beginning of the Gospel of John in The Message: “The Word became flesh and moved into the neighborhood” (John 1:14). Jesus became human and lived in a specific, bounded place and time; he moved into the neighborhood! We too find ourselves in a particular context, and our call is to be disciples of Jesus where we are at. We are called to move into the neighborhood and incarnate the Body of Christ right there in the place we find ourselves. We are called to cultivate our place to make it a place to belong. Our parish is a particular outpost of God’s kingdom that is located here, in Penn Wynne, straddling two counties and two townships, situated near a park, with a small wood behind it. A stream flows under our parking lot and right across the front of our church building (buried underground). Our buildings matter in the grand scheme of things because of the incarnation. Our buildings represent the (literal) concrete embodiment of God’s grace. They are a vow of stability that our church has made to the neighborhood. They say, “we are here for you, and we’re sticking around.” As the context for countless church services and life events, our building has a special place in our hearts and imaginations. This is good.
—
The pandemic has, of course, forced us to see our church building much less. I spend less time there than I did before the pandemic, and I know there are some of you haven’t set foot inside the building in almost a year. With travel restrictions and increased danger, most of us have not move around as much as we are accustomed to. Even so, our call is the same—to be disciples of Jesus where we are at. To cultivate our limited circumstances as an outpost of the Kingdom of God. Right now we have the opportunity to be more attentive. To humbly accept our circumstances and limitations and to really pay attention to where we find ourselves physically and spiritually.
We take awe-filled and wonder-full things for granted all around us every day. The monastic wisdom of stability—of staying put, invites us to be present in a grace-filled, incarnational way to the place where we are at; to see how God’s kingdom is moving into the neighborhood, our backyard, our living room. Let it also inspire us to make our neighborhoods and homes better. Let it inspire us to pray—“In Penn Wynne or Havertown as it is heaven.”
So, here’s a strange sounding, but truly profound spiritual practice for you: Have you ever stopped and paid absolute, total attention to just 1 square foot of your backyard? Try it! Find a patch of grass and spend a very intentional 30 minutes, focusing all your senses on nothing else. Listen to the sounds of your backyard. Look at the muddy, messy, wonder that is all around you. Leave your phone inside. You are guaranteed to be astonished at the near infinite amount of fascinating, incredible, mind-blowing details packed into such a small, ordinary place. You will come away more grateful to your Creator and more at peace with yourself.
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday this week (see the Ash Wednesday plan here). I’ve chosen to center our Lenten offerings this year around a theme: “Monastic Wisdom for Non-Monastics in an Anxious World.” Ok, it’s a long-winded theme, but stick with me.
I am aware that our perceptions and notions of monks and nuns are going to vary widely. Some of us were educated in Roman Catholic schools where you had monastics teachers. I know that some of you had excellent experiences, and some not so much. Others of you will know that there is a long tradition of monasticism in Anglicanism, and might be curious about that or other traditions. Others may not have any reference point or knowledge of monasticism outside of bits and pieces picked up at church or from popular culture. Monasticism is a pretty wild idea, actually. The idea that there are people who feel called to make some kind of commitment to live a different kind of life, “in the world, but not of the world,” together in a community (or as a hermit), following a rule of life that includes enormous amounts of prayer and study, holding personal possessions in common, and agreeing to be celibate—all of this is very counter-cultural. Monasticism may seem like a rarified pursuit, far removed from the experiences and concerns of us, and our parish. In reality, I believe the opposite is true. [more]
You can view our live-stream on our YouTube channel. A link to this video will be posted to Facebook. To attend in person, please sign up to reserve your spot.
Sunday, February 14, 2021 – Last Sunday after the Epiphany, Celebrating the Feast of Absalom Jones Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – Ash Wednesday Ashes to Go 8:00-9:15AM In the church parking lot. Please see last week’s “A Note from the Rector” for details on the safe practices that will be in place.
Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 12:15PM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 6:30PM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Sunday, February 21, 2021 – 1st Sunday of Lent Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
The BCP Daily Office Tuesdays in Lent – Feb 23, Mar 2, Mar 9, Mar 16, Mar 23, Mar 30 8:30 AM – Morning Prayer – YouTube 12:00 PM – Noonday Prayer – Zoom 5:30 PM – Evening Prayer – YouTube 7:30 PM – Compline – Zoom
Zoom Compline is held every night at 7:30PM A brief time of prayer and checking in with other members of CHA “Zoom Compline has been really helped me through this difficult time. It’s such a great way to close the day.” – CHA Member Follow this link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/233415613?pwd=dTBDeUhrUUdSak9MS3RUaXdDSDhpUT09 or call into the meeting toll-free 1-888-475-4499 Callers will be promoted to enter this meeting ID: 233 415 613 and passcode: love
Zoom Bible Studyis held every Thursday at 11AM We are just starting a combined study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God. Follow this link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/788355291?pwd=R2FQRWltZ01LWG92WGtPSm54cXJSUT09 or call 1-888-475-4499 US Toll-free You will be prompted to enter this meeting ID: 788 355 291 and passcode: love *note: the passcode for all CHA Zoom meetings is “love”
Outreach – Up Next
Lenten Service Projects Objective: To show continued support for helping with food scarcity issues in the community
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16 NRSV
Connect by Night We would like to provide some simple suppers, reminiscent of our own Soup Group Nights at CHA. What: Simple Suppers – 2 events When: Wednesday, February 17 and Wednesday, March 10 Menu: Multiple crocks of soup for 10-12, Crusty bread, Cheese plate, Fresh Fruit
Still needed for THIS WEDNESDAY, February 17: 2 more crocks of soup Fresh Fruit – preferably whole oranges, apples, grapes
Please contact Cassie to volunteer to provide for one or both of these dinners!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Darby Mission During Lent our goal is to help stock and replenish the Darby mission Food Pantry and School Supplies. Below is a “top ten” list of items that would be required to meet the needs of Rev. Doris’ clients. Other non-perishable items also accepted. Children and Youth could be encouraged to concentrate on school supplies while the Adults of the congregation could take on the food and personal hygiene items. School Supplies most needed: crayons, glue sticks, composition notebooks, pencils Food and Hygiene items most needed: pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, cereal, tampons
Drop off locations: In or near the designated box in the church narthex 27 Kathmere Rd, Havertown Ship directly to CHA when ordering on line
Collection will run from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday. If you can offer to be an additional collection location, please contact Cassie.
THANK YOU for your continued support of those in need in our communities. Cassie Woestman, Outreach Chairperson, contact info: Email: grammysqrd@gmail.com Phone/Text: 610-608-5440
Announcements
+ Lenten Services – Follow the [more] link on the Note from the Rector to get all the information on services being offered from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday.
+ Lenten Reading – Lent starts this week! This year you are invited to participate in an All Parish Book Reading and Discussion. We will read a short, intriguing, and enjoyable book by Esther De Waal entitled Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict (Liturgical Press, 1984, updated 2001) There will be two opportunities to discuss this book together via Zoom on Sunday March 7th and Sunday March 21st, after the morning service. You are also welcome just to read the book on your own! You can find the book on Amazon or at an independent bookstore such as Eighth Day Books or Hearts and Minds Books.
+ Church Service Attendance – Based on guidelines from Bishop Daniel and a corresponding vote by your Vestry, beginning February 7 the maximum number of attendees will be raised to 20 persons. Masks and appropriate distancing will continue to be observed. We look forward to seeing you back at church if you feel comfortable there. Services will also continue to be livestreamed. Please note that you must pre-register to attend service to allow us to continue keeping with our safe practices. If you are serving (organist, reader, cantor, tech, usher, etc.) please remember to sign up as well.
+ Sunday School: Sunday School will be held online via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month for preschool (5 years old) through 8th grade. You can join Sunday School using this link (all ages welcome): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89142013163?pwd=WFpJVDlZVFJhOUVVa1gxQ2k0djVndz09 We’re looking for more teachers! If you would like to be involved in this exciting ministry, contact Peter Patton: pmpatton307@gmail.com
+ Bible Study: Every Thursday at 11AM (currently on Zoom). We are just starting a combined study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God. . Join us anytime using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/788355291?pwd=R2FQRWltZ01LWG92WGtPSm54cXJSUT09
+ Girl Scout Cookies are here! Click here to place an online order or go to: https://app.abcsmartcookies.com/#/social-link-landing/d209b161-8f30-4958-aa36-8807e0d457b1 You can choose shipping, or girl delivery with a credit card. You can also contact Michelle Gallagher directly and use cash, check, Venmo, PayPal, etc. Emma can deliver or set up a time to meet (socially distanced) in the church parking lot. Emma Gallagher says “thank you for your support of our troop!” Cookie sales run from January 21- March 14.
+ One Love: Our diocese has created an online platform where you can find inspirational videos, sermons by the bishop and other clergy, and online services. Visit DioPA One Love Online: https://episcopalpa.online.church
+Eucharistic Visits: During this time, the rector and trained Eucharistic ministers may visit others to bring them the Eucharist. Meeting in outdoor spaces of homes will be preferred. Contact the rector if you would like to schedule a visit.
+Giving: You can still mail pledge contributions to the church at this time. The mail is checked regularly. You can also securely give online. Go to holyapostlespa.org and click on the “Give” button on the top right hand corner of the webpage.
+ Online Worship: Online worship continues! We will be live-streaming each Sunday at 10AM. We will be calling on our virtual choir to provide music for us, and there will be occasional readings from members at home. It’s all happening on our YouTube Channel. Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button!
+ Happy Birthday! The following folks have birthdays in the month of February. 6th Carter Grant 12th Jamieson Henderson 17th Mike Johnson 19th Annie Neff Jamison Grant 23rd Lyn DeSilets Lucas Johnson 24th Jeremiah Mustered 27th Meg Delevan Alice Vroome 28th Braeden Wherry Colin Vroome If your birthday, or the birthday of another parishioner in your family is missing, please notify the Parish Office at holyapostlespa@gmail.com
Our mailing address is: 1020 Remington Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday this week (see the Ash Wednesday plan here). I’ve chosen to center our Lenten offerings this year around a theme: “Monastic Wisdom for Non-Monastics in an Anxious World.” Ok, it’s a long-winded theme, but stick with me.
I am aware that our perceptions and notions of monks and nuns are going to vary widely. Some of us were educated in Roman Catholic schools where you had monastics teachers. I know that some of you had excellent experiences, and some not so much. Others of you will know that there is a long tradition of monasticism in Anglicanism, and might be curious about that or other traditions. Others may not have any reference point or knowledge of monasticism outside of bits and pieces picked up at church or from popular culture. Monasticism is a pretty wild idea, actually. The idea that there are people who feel called to make some kind of commitment to live a different kind of life, “in the world, but not of the world,” together in a community (or as a hermit), following a rule of life that includes enormous amounts of prayer and study, holding personal possessions in common, and agreeing to be celibate—all of this is very counter-cultural. Monasticism may seem like a rarified pursuit, far removed from the experiences and concerns of us, and our parish. In reality, I believe the opposite is true. There is much profound wisdom in the Christian monastic tradition that has a great deal to do with us in our current situation. This can offer us a lot of wisdom, solace, and strength during this extended period of pandemic related crisis. So, I am not asking anyone to become a monk or nun for Lent. Instead, I am inviting us all to explore how monastic wisdom can enrich our own lives as we live them in our present circumstances.
The core commitment and center piece of monasticism is also the inspiration and centerpiece of the Book of Common Prayer: daily prayer. The Book of Common Prayer was designed to take the monastic cycle of daily prayer and put it within the reach of non-monastic Christians like you and me. This cycle of prayer is called the Daily Office. During the pandemic, many of us have rediscovered the power and joy of one of these monastic prayer offices called Compline. During Lent, I am inviting everyone to explore the Daily Office as it is given to us in the Book of Common Prayer. This Office includes Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer (said around dusk), and Compline (said at bedtime or roundabouts). For some, this daily prayer practice will be new. I would suggest trying out each of these services in turn. The easiest way to start might be joining us for nightly Compline. There are also many apps, websites, podcasts, and books that can help you understand how to use the Book of Common Prayer on your own, and I will be posting links to these resources here: www.holyapostlespa.org/lent. Some might want to try to pray more than one Office every day during Lent. Some might want to try praying them all, at least once in a while. To facilitate this, I will be leading the entire Daily Office on Tuesdays during Lent starting February 23rd. Morning and Evening Prayer will be livestreamed to our YouTube channel. Noonday Prayer and Compline (both quite short) will be prayed on Zoom using the same link that we use for Compline now. The schedule can be found below. There are also many other online opportunities to join other communities in daily prayer, including Holy Apostles and the Mediator, the Diocesan staff, and many parishes in this diocese, and indeed, around the world. As we go along, I will be finding and sharing some of these opportunities (feel free to send me ones that you have found). I encourage you to pray these services with me, and/or explore the riches of this essentially monastic tradition on your own.
We are also reading a book together this Lent. The book is called Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict by Esther DeWaal. This book, which is written for non-monastics and for non-specialists, will help us explore one of the many monastic traditions and bodies of wisdom, Benedictine Monasticism, from the perspective of what it has to say to us in our context. There will be two opportunities to discuss this book together via Zoom on Sunday March 7th and Sunday March 21st, after the morning service.
One piece of Benedictine monastic wisdom is that spirituality must be balanced. It must fit holistically and realistically into one’s life. This year, with online school and childcare shaping and limiting my schedule, leading a weeknight class during Lent isn’t going to work for me and my family. My dance card is full, as my grandmother used to say. But, I hope that reading this short, insightful book will be a rewarding experience instead of our normal “Soup Group” class and discussion.
I will use my weekly Notes from the Rector to highlight some other aspects of the broader monastic tradition and look for other resources to share with you. For instance, there are a number of fascinating documentaries and fictional movies about monasticism that you might find interesting. I’ll share some of them with you as we go along.
God willing, during Holy Week (schedule below) we will be able to continue to have limited in-person gatherings. The exact details of our services will need to be flexible and take into account what is happening in our world and community. One way or the other, we will hold our Holy Week services as well as other Lenten devotions such as the Stations of the Cross, the Rosary (perhaps), and the all-night prayer vigil starting on the night of Maundy Thursday.
I look forward to this journey of preparation for Easter with all of you. Lent is a time of introspection and self-reflection. It is a time of study and fasting. It is a time of taking up things that are valuable and real, and letting go of illusions and other things that hinder us on our journey toward God. I am always available to listen to your spiritual concerns, hear your confession, and offer God’s absolution. I can also easily arrange for another priest to hear confession if that is preferable. Lent is a particularly good time for this sort of internal spiritual work. I’m here if you need me.
Palm Sunday – March 28 Holy Eucharist with Blessing of the Palms, Procession, and Passion Reading – 10AM
Tuesday – March 30 Stations of the Cross – TBD Chrism Mass (Philadelphia Cathedral, virtual) – TBD
Wednesday – March 31 Stations of the Cross – TBD Tenebrae – 6:30PM
Maundy Thursday – April 1 Stations of the Cross – TBD Agape Meal, Holy Eucharist & the Stripping of the Altar – 6:30PM The Altar of Repose & All Night Vigil (virtual and in-person)
Good Friday – April 2 Stations of the Cross – TBD Service of Readings and Meditations – 12PM Good Friday Liturgy with Music and Veneration of the Cross – 6:30PM
10AM Holy Eucharist Limited to 10 in-person attendees – Social distancing and masks required – Sign Up Watch the broadcast on our YouTube channel Service Material can be found on our website
2021 is slipping away so quickly, it seems. It’s almost time for Lent. Ash Wednesday is February 17th. Following diocesan guidelines, the vestry and I have decided to move forward with the distribution of ashes in a way that mitigates the risk of potential coronavirus transmission. There will be three opportunities to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday. The first will be “Ashes to Go” in the morning. Between 8am and 9:15am, you will have the opportunity to drive or walk to church, where you will find me standing near the parking lot. To avoid contact, I will use a Q-tip to impose ashes on your forehead, and will say the familiar words from the prayer book. We’ll all be wearing masks (maybe even two masks) the whole time, and my ashen Q tips will be single use.
There will also be two more traditional Ash Wednesday services at 12:15 and 6:30PM. These services of Eucharist will also include the imposition of ashes by Q-tip in the same manner. Services will limited to 20 people, and you will need to sign up in order to come.
Anglicans have often been a little skeptical of ashes anyway. The 1979 Book of Common Prayer is the first to include the option to impose Ashes on Ash Wednesday, and including this option was very controversial at the time. Many Episcopalians at the time felt like the idea of Ash Wednesday violated Jesus’ commandment in Matthew 6: “Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them… whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting” (in order to build in some intentional irony and self-reflection, Matthew 6 is the Gospel reading for the Ash Wednesday service). On the other hand, many others have felt that the visceral, fragile, and potent reminder that ashes provide us is important, nonetheless. This strange ritual reminds us of our own mortality, of the mortality of our loved ones, and even the mortality of the people that we see walking around us. It is physical reminder of the fragility and preciousness of life; the need to trust in God; the need to care for and cherish others; the need to live life now, with what we’ve got, while we’ve got it; to not take tomorrow for granted—ashes on the forehead really do it for some folks. It can be a powerful and holy way to begin Lent, that season of preparation before the glory of Easter.
So, I am offering this weird symbol to those for whom it is important. I do believe that physical things, like ashes, like candles, can communicate important things and can ultimately help us receive God grace in our lives. When it comes to the sacraments—the waters of baptism, the bread and wine of Eucharist—my confidence and commitment are magnified significantly. Ultimately, this is because I believe that God became human in Jesus Christ and made material things, matter, matter. They matter in such a way that transcends our fragility and mortality and touches upon the divine. I’m staking my life on that. I believe in all of this so much that I’m willing to hang out outside in the cold and put ashes on your forehead with a Q-tip. That being said, the safest thing is to watch the service online, especially for those of us who are might be particularly vulnerable to serious illness because of coronavirus. We’ll take every precaution, but there’s always risk. So, I’ll be here if you need me. But ashes or not, regardless of me or you or what we do, God’s love for us is always nearby. God is always very near.
You can view our live-stream on our YouTube channel. A link to this video will be posted to Facebook. To attend in person, please sign up to reserve your spot.
Sunday, February 7, 2021 – 5th Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Sunday, February 14, 2021 – Last Sunday after the Epiphany, Feast of Absalom Jones Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – Ash Wednesday Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 12:15PM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – Ash Wednesday Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 6:30PM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Zoom Compline is held every night at 7:30PM A brief time of prayer and checking in with other members of CHA
“Zoom Compline has been really helped me through this difficult time. It’s such a great way to close the day.” – CHA Member
Zoom Bible Studyis held every Thursday at 11AM We are just starting a study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God.
*note: the passcode for all CHA Zoom meetings is “love”
Outreach – Up Next
Lenten Service Projects Objective: To show continued support for helping with food scarcity issues in the community Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16 NRSV
Darby Mission During Lent our goal is to help stock and replenish the Darby mission Food Pantry and School Supplies. Below is a “top ten” list of items that would be required to meet the needs of Rev. Doris’ clients. Other non-perishable items also accepted. Children and Youth could be encouraged to concentrate on school supplies while the Adults of the congregation could take on the food and personal hygiene items. School Supplies most needed: crayons, glue sticks, composition notebooks, pencils Food and Hygiene items most needed: pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, cereal, tampons
Drop off locations: In or near the designated box in the church narthex 27 Kathmere Rd, Havertown Ship directly to CHA when ordering on line
Collection will run from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday. If you can offer to be an additional collection location, please contact Cassie.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Connect by Night We would like to provide some simple suppers, reminiscent of our own Soup Group Nights at CHA.
What: Simple Suppers – 2 events When: Wednesday, February 17 and Wednesday, March 10 Menu: Multiple crocks of soup for 10-12, Crusty bread, Cheese plate, Fresh Fruit
Please contact Cassie to volunteer to provide for one or both of these dinners! THANK YOU for your continued support of those in need in our communities.
+ Ash Wednesday Services – February 17 – See “A Note from the Rector,” above, for more details. 8 – 9:15 am “Ashes to Go” in the church parking lot – distancing and safe practices (James will be using gloves and single-use cotton swabs) during administration of ashes. 12:15 pm Ash Wednesday Liturgy and Eucharist – Watch the livestream or re-watch the service at any time on our YouTube channel 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday Liturgy and Eucharist with Music Watch the livestream or re-watch the service at any time on our YouTube channel + Lenten Reading – Lent is just a week and a half away! This year you are invited to participate in an All Parish Book Reading and Discussion. We will read a short, intriguing, and enjoyable book by Esther De Waal entitled Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict (Liturgical Press, 1984, updated 2001) There will be opportunities during Lent to discuss the book together. You are also welcome just to read the book on your own! You can find the book on Amazon or, you might consider supporting an independent bookstore such as Eighth Day Books or Hearts and Minds Books. You’ll want to order soon in order to ensure that it gets to you in time!
+ Church Service Attendance – Based on guidelines from Bishop Daniel and a corresponding vote by your Vestry, beginning February 7 the maximum number of attendees will be raised to 20 persons. Masks and appropriate distancing will continue to be observed. We look forward to seeing you back at church if you feel comfortable there. Services will also continue to be livestreamed. Please note that you must pre-register to attend service to allow us to continue keeping with our safe practices. If you are serving (organist, reader, cantor, tech, usher, etc.) please remember to sign up as well.
+ Girl Scout Cookies are here! For 6 years now Emma Gallagher has set up in the parish hall during coffee hour, but thanks to COVID, she is all online! Emma is in Penn Valley/Welsh Valley Cadette Troop 7031. Our cookie sales fund the troop for the year – the girls have been meeting virtually and are really looking forward to seeing each other in person hopefully soon!
Flavors ($4 per box): Toast-Yay (new this year – which is a French toast flavor), Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Coconut Delights, Shortbreads, Lemonades and S’mores.
Click here to place an online order or go to: https://app.abcsmartcookies.com/#/social-link-landing/d209b161-8f30-4958-aa36-8807e0d457b1 You can choose shipping, or girl delivery with a credit card. You can also contact Michelle directly and use cash, check, Venmo, PayPal, etc. Emma can deliver or set up a time to meet (socially distanced) in the church parking lot. Emma says “thank you for your support of our troop!” Cookie sales run from January 21- March 14.
+ Sunday School: Sunday School will be held online via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month for preschool (5 years old) through 8th grade. You can join Sunday School using this link (all ages welcome): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89142013163?pwd=WFpJVDlZVFJhOUVVa1gxQ2k0djVndz09 We’re looking for more teachers! If you would like to be involved in this exciting ministry, contact Peter Patton: pmpatton307@gmail.com
+ One Love: Our diocese has created an online platform where you can find inspirational videos, sermons by the bishop and other clergy, and online services. Visit DioPA One Love Online: https://episcopalpa.online.church
+Eucharistic Visits: During this time, the rector and trained Eucharistic ministers may visit others to bring them the Eucharist. Meeting in outdoor spaces of homes will be preferred. Contact the rector if you would like to schedule a visit.
+Giving: You can still mail pledge contributions to the church at this time. The mail is checked regularly. You can also securely give online. Go to holyapostlespa.org and click on the “Give” button on the top right hand corner of the webpage.
+ Online Worship: Online worship continues! We will be live-streaming each Sunday at 10AM. We will be calling on our virtual choir to provide music for us, and there will be occasional readings from members at home. It’s all happening on our YouTube Channel. Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button!
+ Happy Birthday! The following folks have birthdays in the month of February. 6th Carter Grant 12th Jamieson Henderson 17th Mike Johnson 19th Annie Neff Jamison Grant 23rd Lyn DeSilets Lucas Johnson 24th Jeremiah Mustered 27th Meg Delevan Alice Vroome 28th Braeden Wherry Colin Vroome If your birthday, or the birthday of another parishioner in your family is missing, please notify the Parish Office at holyapostlespa@gmail.com
2021 is slipping away so quickly, it seems. It’s almost time for Lent. Ash Wednesday is February 17th. Following diocesan guidelines, the vestry and I have decided to move forward with the distribution of ashes in a way that mitigates the risk of potential coronavirus transmission. There will be three opportunities to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday. The first will be “Ashes to Go” in the morning. Between 8am and 9:15am, you will have the opportunity to drive or walk to church, where you will find me standing near the parking lot. To avoid contact, I will use a Q-tip to impose ashes on your forehead, and will say the familiar words from the prayer book. We’ll all be wearing masks (maybe even two masks) the whole time, and my ashen Q tips will be single use.
There will also be two more traditional Ash Wednesday services at 12:15 and 6:30PM. These services of Eucharist will also include the imposition of ashes by Q-tip in the same manner. Services will limited to 20 people, and you will need to sign up in order to come.
Anglicans have often been a little skeptical of ashes anyway. The 1979 Book of Common Prayer is the first to include the option to impose Ashes on Ash Wednesday, and including this option was very controversial at the time. Many Episcopalians at the time felt like the idea of Ash Wednesday violated Jesus’ commandment in Matthew 6: “Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them… whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting” (in order to build in some intentional irony and self-reflection, Matthew 6 is the Gospel reading for the Ash Wednesday service). On the other hand, many others have felt that the visceral, fragile, and potent reminder that ashes provide us is important, nonetheless. This strange ritual reminds us of our own mortality, of the mortality of our loved ones, and even the mortality of the people that we see walking around us. It is physical reminder of the fragility and preciousness of life; the need to trust in God; the need to care for and cherish others; the need to live life now, with what we’ve got, while we’ve got it; to not take tomorrow for granted—ashes on the forehead really do it for some folks. It can be a powerful and holy way to begin Lent, that season of preparation before the glory of Easter.
So, I am offering this weird symbol to those for whom it is important. I do believe that physical things, like ashes, like candles, can communicate important things and can ultimately help us receive God grace in our lives. When it comes to the sacraments—the waters of baptism, the bread and wine of Eucharist—my confidence and commitment are magnified significantly. Ultimately, this is because I believe that God became human in Jesus Christ and made material things, matter, matter. They matter in such a way that transcends our fragility and mortality and touches upon the divine. I’m staking my life on that. I believe in all of this so much that I’m willing to hang out outside in the cold and put ashes on your forehead with a Q tip. That being said, the safest thing is to watch the service online, especially for those of us who are might be particularly vulnerable to serious illness because of coronavirus. We’ll take every precaution, but there’s always risk. So, I’ll be here if you need me. But ashes or not, regardless of me or you or what we do, God’s love for us is always nearby. God is always very near.
Our all-parish annual meeting will take place virtually THIS SUNDAY, January 31, after the 10am service. We will meet on Zoom to vote to pass a budget and to elect new members of the vestry. We will be using same link we use for nightly Compline. Please plan to join us for this important business meeting.
This Sunday
10AM Holy Eucharist Limited to 10 in-person attendees – Social distancing and masks required – Sign Up Watch the broadcast on our YouTube channel Service Material can be found on our website
I am looking forward to our annual meeting Sunday after the 10AM service (about 11:15AM). Our Constitution and By-Laws stipulate that the annual meeting must be held in the church, so in at least the spirit of adherence, I will be “broadcasting” from the church building. Our digital presentation will be streamlined. I’ve asked committee chairs to limit their remarks to about two minutes each with the exception of the Budget presentation (I want to give plenty of time for both explanation and potential questions).
However, for this to work well I am asking each member of Holy Apostles to take some time to read the excellent committee reports. They can be found on our website holyapostlespa.org/annual-meeting. John Day, who has done an outstanding job as senior warden, wrote an excellent report summarizing much of what has happened this year from the perspective of the vestry. Tom Forker and Matt Dupre put together a thorough summary of the state of our finances, as well as an excellent proposed budget for 2021 which is also available for your review. Their financial leadership during this pandemic has been exemplary. The pandemic has not put an end to our ministry, and if you read the committee reports you will begin to get a sense of just how much we were able to accomplish in 2020 with God’s help and with the tenacity and perseverance of our congregation and leadership. I am especially thankful for the outstanding continued Outreach work of our parish. Despite challenging circumstances, Holy Apostles helped to feed a lot of people, provide many other resources and comfort to a lot of people. We maintained our important relationships with the Darby Mission, Connect by Night, and the Ardmore Food Pantry at St. Mary’s. I couldn’t be more grateful to all of you for this outstanding work.
Please do spend some time reading the reports, and then please join us after service on Sunday on our Compline Zoom link for our annual meeting.
You can view our live-stream on our YouTube channel. A link to this video will be posted to Facebook.
Sunday, January 31, 2021 – 4th Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher All-Parish Annual Meeting to follow this service on Zoom
Tuesday, February 2, 2021 – Candlemas, Feast of the Presentation of Christ to the Temple Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion and Blessing of Candles 6:30 PM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Sunday, February 7, 2021 – 5th Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 20 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Zoom Compline is held every night at 7:30PM A brief time of prayer and checking in with other members of CHA
“Zoom Compline has been really helped me through this difficult time. It’s such a great way to close the day.” – CHA Member
Zoom Bible Studyis held every Thursday at 11AM We will be starting a study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God.
*note: the passcode for all CHA Zoom meetings is “love”
Announcements
+ Lenten Reading – Lent is just around the corner! This year you are invited to participate in an All Parish Book Reading and Discussion. We will read a short, intriguing, and enjoyable book by Esther De Waal entitled Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict (Liturgical Press, 1984, updated 2001) There will be opportunities during Lent to discuss the book together. You are also welcome just to read the book on your own! You can find the book on Amazon or, you might consider supporting an independent bookstore such as Eighth Day Books or Hearts and Minds Books. You’ll want to order soon in order to ensure that it gets to you in time!
+ Church Service Attendance – Based on guidelines from Bishop Daniel and a corresponding vote by your Vestry, beginning February 7 the maximum number of attendees will be raised to 20 persons. Masks and appropriate distancing will continue to be observed. We look forward to seeing you back at church if you feel comfortable there. Services will also continue to be livestreamed. Please note that you must pre-register to attend service to allow us to continue keeping with our safe practices. If you are serving (organist, reader, cantor, tech, usher, etc.) please remember to sign up as well.
+ Outreach Opportunity for Lent – During Lent our goal is to help stock and replenish the Darby mission Food Pantry and School Supplies. Below is a “top ten” list of items that would be required to meet the needs of Rev. Doris’ clients. Other items also accepted. Children and Youth could be encouraged to concentrate on school supplies while the Adults of the congregation could take on the food and personal hygiene items. Collection will run from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday. Drop off locations will be established and noted in upcoming Acts of the Apostles emails and in Sunday announcements during the 10 am service. School Supplies most needed: crayons, glue sticks, composition notebooks, pencils Food and Hygiene items most needed: pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, cereal, tampons THANK YOU for your continued support of those in need in our communities. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16 NRSV
+ Girl Scout Cookies are here! For 6 years now Emma Gallagher has set up in the parish hall during coffee hour, but thanks to COVID, she is all online! Emma is in Penn Valley/Welsh Valley Cadette Troop 7031. Our cookie sales fund the troop for the year – the girls have been meeting virtually and are really looking forward to seeing each other in person hopefully soon!
Flavors ($4 per box): Toast-Yay (new this year – which is a French toast flavor), Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Coconut Delights, Shortbreads, Lemonades and S’mores.
Click here to place an online order or go to: https://app.abcsmartcookies.com/#/social-link-landing/d209b161-8f30-4958-aa36-8807e0d457b1 You can choose shipping, or girl delivery with a credit card. You can also contact Michelle directly and use cash, check, Venmo, PayPal, etc. Emma can deliver or set up a time to meet (socially distanced) in the church parking lot. Emma says “thank you for your support of our troop!” Cookie sales run from January 21- March 14.
+ Sunday School: Sunday School will be held online via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month for preschool (5 years old) through 8th grade. You can join Sunday School using this link (all ages welcome): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89142013163?pwd=WFpJVDlZVFJhOUVVa1gxQ2k0djVndz09 We’re looking for more teachers! If you would like to be involved in this exciting ministry, contact Peter Patton: pmpatton307@gmail.com
+ One Love: Our diocese has created an online platform where you can find inspirational videos, sermons by the bishop and other clergy, and online services. Visit DioPA One Love Online: https://episcopalpa.online.church
+Eucharistic Visits: During this time, the rector and trained Eucharistic ministers may visit others to bring them the Eucharist. Meeting in outdoor spaces of homes will be preferred. Contact the rector if you would like to schedule a visit.
+Giving: You can still mail pledge contributions to the church at this time. The mail is checked regularly. You can also securely give online. Go to holyapostlespa.org and click on the “Give” button on the top right hand corner of the webpage.
+ Online Worship: Online worship continues! We will be live-streaming each Sunday at 10AM. We will be calling on our virtual choir to provide music for us, and there will be occasional readings from members at home. It’s all happening on our YouTube Channel. Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button!
+ Happy Birthday! The following folks have birthdays in the month of February. 6th Carter Grant 12th Jamieson Henderson 17th Mike Johnson 19th Annie Neff Jamison Grant 23rd Lyn DeSilets Lucas Johnson 24th Jeremiah Mustered 27th Meg Delevan Alice Vroome 28th Braeden Wherry Colin Vroome If your birthday, or the birthday of another parishioner in your family is missing, please notify the Parish Office at holyapostlespa@gmail.com
Our all-parish annual meeting will take place virtually NEXT SUNDAY, January 31, after the 10am service.
We will meet on Zoom to vote to pass a budget and to elect new members of the vestry. Next week this space will include the Zoom link and call-in number option. We will be using same link we use for nightly Compline. Please plan to join us for this important business meeting.
Dear CHA parishioners,
Our annual meeting has always included a delicious soup and sandwich lunch. For obvious reasons, we will be postponing that meal until we can gather and share together again. However, we do want to be able to virtually share a bite to eat as we review 2020 and look forward to 2021. To that end, on Saturday 1/30 we will be delivering a bag of breakfast goodies to be enjoyed during our annual meeting being held Sunday, 1/31, following the 10 AM service.
Bon Appetit!
Suzanne Lees Fellowship Committee Chairperson
THIS SUNDAY
10AM Holy Eucharist Limited to 10 in-person attendees – Social distancing and masks required – Sign Up Watch the broadcast on ourYouTube channel Service Material can be foundon our website
We are preparing to elect two new members to our vestry next Sunday at our annual parish meeting. This slate of candidates includes:
Linda Day Linda and her husband John have been members of CHA since 2016. Linda is the Pre-K Assistant Teacher at Plymouth Meeting Friends School. She has been an integral volunteer for so many things at CHA, from gardening projects to pancakes with Santa. She also serves on the Altar Guild. Linda is a member of the Daughters of the King and is interested, with several others, in starting a chapter of DOK here at CHA. John and Linda live in Wynnewood.
Jean Gentile Jean and his wife, Katie, joined CHA in 2019 after moving back to the area from Florida. Jean and Katie have deep roots in this community. Since the pandemic prevented us from meeting normally, Jean has been instrumental in building and facilitating the technology we’ve needed in order to conduct our services virtually. A talented musician, Jean has used his talents combined with his technical skill to help create our virtual choir offerings. Jean works for Electronic Arts. Jean and Katie live in Havertown.
We will also vote on a motion to allow Suzanne Lees to continue serving on the vestry for two more years. At last year’s annual meeting, Suzanne was elected to complete the last year of Kevin Cavanaugh’s vestry term. Given the challenges we have faced together in 2020, Suzanne has graciously volunteered to stay on the vestry and complete a typical three-year term. I hope very much that we will vote to keep Suzanne. She is a gift to this parish, and I am grateful for her willingness to continue to serve. Her continued vestry term will provide much needed stability and continuity as we face 2021 and, with God’s help, emerge on the other side of the coronavirus pandemic.
Thank you to all three vestry candidates. I hope that all members of the parish will be able to join us online next Sunday, January 31, for our annual parish meeting.
A Note on Vestries
The vestry and rector serve as the leadership of this parish together. The vestry system is unique to the American branch of the Anglican Communion (The Episcopal Church). During our colonial period, the Church of England operated in the American colonies under the direct authority of the Bishop of London. [more]
You can view our live-stream on our YouTube channel. A link to this video will be posted to Facebook.
Sunday, January 24, 2021 – 3rd Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Sunday, January 31, 2021 – 4th Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher All-Parish Annual Meeting to follow this service on Zoom
Tuesday, February 2, 2021 – Candlemas, Feast of the Presentation of Christ to the Temple Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion and Blessing of Candles 6:30 PM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Zoom Compline is held every night at 7:30PM A brief time of prayer and checking in with other members of CHA
“Zoom Compline has been really helped me through this difficult time. It’s such a great way to close the day.” – CHA Member
Zoom Bible Studyis held every Thursday at 11AM We will be starting a study of the Books of Daniel and Revelation. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God.
*note: the passcode for all CHA Zoom meetings is “love”
Announcements
+ Lenten Reading – Lent is just around the corner! This year you are invited to participate in an All Parish Book Reading and Discussion. We will read a short, intriguing, and enjoyable book by Esther De Waal entitled Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict (Liturgical Press, 1984, updated 2001) There will be opportunities during Lent to discuss the book together. You are also welcome just to read the book on your own! You can find the book on Amazon or, you might consider supporting an independent bookstore such as Eighth Day Books or Hearts and Minds Books. You’ll want to order soon in order to ensure that it gets to you in time!
+ Girl Scout Cookies are here! For 6 years now Emma Gallagher has set up in the parish hall during coffee hour, but thanks to COVID, she is all online! Emma is in Penn Valley/Welsh Valley Cadette Troop 7031. Our cookie sales fund the troop for the year – the girls have been meeting virtually and are really looking forward to seeing each other in person hopefully soon!
Flavors ($4 per box): Toast-Yay (new this year – which is a French toast flavor), Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Coconut Delights, Shortbreads, Lemonades and S’mores.
Click here to place an online order or go to: https://app.abcsmartcookies.com/#/social-link-landing/d209b161-8f30-4958-aa36-8807e0d457b1 You can choose shipping, or girl delivery with a credit card. You can also contact Michelle directly and use cash, check, Venmo, PayPal, etc. Emma can deliver or set up a time to meet (socially distanced) in the church parking lot. Emma says “thank you for your support of our troop!” Cookie sales run from January 21- March 14.
+ Sunday School: Sunday School will be held online via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month for preschool (5 years old) through 8th grade. You can join Sunday School using this link (all ages welcome): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89142013163?pwd=WFpJVDlZVFJhOUVVa1gxQ2k0djVndz09 We’re looking for more teachers! If you would like to be involved in this exciting ministry, contact Peter Patton: pmpatton307@gmail.com
+ One Love: Our diocese has created an online platform where you can find inspirational videos, sermons by the bishop and other clergy, and online services. Visit DioPA One Love Online: https://episcopalpa.online.church
+Eucharistic Visits: During this time, the rector and trained Eucharistic ministers may visit others to bring them the Eucharist. Meeting in outdoor spaces of homes will be preferred. Contact the rector if you would like to schedule a visit.
+Giving: You can still mail pledge contributions to the church at this time. The mail is checked regularly. You can also securely give online. Go to holyapostlespa.org and click on the “Give” button on the top right hand corner of the webpage.
+ Online Worship: Online worship continues! We will be live-streaming each Sunday at 10AM. We will be calling on our virtual choir to provide music for us, and there will be occasional readings from members at home. It’s all happening on our YouTube Channel. Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button!
+ Happy Birthday! The following folks have birthdays in the month of January. 2nd Paul March 4th Jamie Grant 5th Bradford Smith 7th Katie Gentile 8th Kalli Miller 20th Deborah Stambaugh 21st Maddie Johnson Paige Johnson 25th Christine Costello If your birthday, or the birthday of another parishioner in your family is missing, please notify the Parish Office at holyapostlespa@gmail.com
We are preparing to elect two new members to our vestry next Sunday at our annual parish meeting. This slate of candidates includes:
Linda Day
Linda and her husband John have been members of CHA since 2016. Linda is the Pre-K Assistant Teacher at Plymouth Meeting Friends School. She has been an integral volunteer for so many things at CHA, from gardening projects to pancakes with Santa. She also serves on the Altar Guild. Linda is a member of the Daughters of the King and is interested, with several others, in starting a chapter of DOK here at CHA. John and Linda live in Wynnewood.
Jean Gentile
Jean and his wife, Katie, joined CHA in 2019 after moving back to the area from Florida. Jean and Katie have deep roots in this community. Since the pandemic prevented us from meeting normally, Jean has been instrumental in building and facilitating the technology we’ve needed in order to conduct our services virtually. A talented musician, Jean has used his talents combined with his technical skill to help create our virtual choir offerings. Jean works for Electronic Arts. Jean and Katie live in Havertown.
We will also vote on a motion to allow Suzanne Lees to continue serving on the vestry for two more years. At last year’s annual meeting, Suzanne was elected to complete the last year of Kevin Cavanaugh’s vestry term. Given the challenges we have faced together in 2020, Suzanne has graciously volunteered to stay on the vestry and complete a typical three-year term. I hope very much that we will vote to keep Suzanne. She is a gift to this parish, and I am grateful for her willingness to continue to serve. Her continued vestry term will provide much needed stability and continuity as we face 2021 and, with God’s help, emerge on the other side of the coronavirus pandemic.
Thank you to all three vestry candidates. I hope that all members of the parish will be able to join us online next Sunday, January 31, for our annual parish meeting.
A Note on Vestries
The vestry and rector serve as the leadership of this parish together. The vestry system is unique to the American branch of the Anglican Communion (The Episcopal Church). During our colonial period, the Church of England operated in the American colonies under the direct authority of the Bishop of London. There were no bishops on American soil until after the American Revolution. There were also no seminaries, and colonies eventually experienced a dire clergy shortage. The vestry system developed out of this necessity. In order for parishes to survive, they needed to have strong lay leadership. Especially in colonies like Virginia where the Church of England was the Established Church, parishes were not just church communities they functioned as geographical entities (similar to the old system of counties and parishes in England). The parish vestries that developed, then, did not just administer the temporal affairs of the parish church, but also, in many cases, served as civil administrators of the entire geographical parish. From this history, our contemporary vestry system has developed. Unique to Anglicanism, (and also to Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and many “Mainline” denominations), a vestry in the Episcopal church is tasked with hiring a rector in consultation with the bishop.
Vestries are a testament to a fact just as true today as it was in colonial America, and indeed everywhere at every time: the church’s backbone is strong lay leadership. The New Testament puts this in theological terms. All baptized Christians are called to be in the “priesthood of all believers” (1 Peter 2:5). We are all ministers of the Gospel, and essential parts of the Body of Christ, the Church. Our role as priests, under Jesus the Great High Priest (Hebrews 7), is to pray for and bless this world, and by our lives, to bring this world closer to God’s Kingdom. That’s the cosmic picture. The local picture seems more mundane. During the pandemic the vestry met monthly on Zoom and passed numerous emails back and forth, conducting the business of the church. Don’t be fooled. The work of the vestry is profound, essential, and beautiful. It is nothing short of committed, loving members of this local congregation quietly doing God’s work day in and day out. I am so grateful.
Our all-parish annual meeting will take place virtually on Sunday, January 31, after the 10am service. We will meet on Zoom, vote to pass a budget and elect new members of the vestry. Watch this space for details and plan to join us for this important business meeting.
This Sunday
10AM Holy Eucharist Limited to 10 in-person attendees – Social distancing and masks required – Sign Up Watch the broadcast on our YouTube channel Service Material can be found on our website
In my sermon last Sunday I said that partisan politics is not the business of the Church. Instead, I posited, the Church is a politics all of its own. I want to use a few of these Rector’s Notes to act as footnotes to back that statement up, and to elaborate on it especially from Scripture. Mostly, I want to meditate on some passages of Scripture that are undeniably political and yet point to what I would call God’s politics, or, in the language of Scripture: the Kingdom of God. God’s reign is in direct contrast to many of the political machinations that we humans have come up with over the millennia. In these explorations, I am taking the long view. Yes, I think Scripture speaks to our pressing current situations, but it does so “sidelong.” It is with an understanding that God’s timing is not humanity’s and that political brokenness is not something that is new (even if it is urgent). So, without naming names, or drawing conclusions that each of you can draw on your own, I want to begin in the first book of the Bible, Genesis.
The Tower of Babel
Genesis 11:1-12 relates the well-known, but not well understood, story of the Tower of Babel. It’s worth reading again since it may have been awhile (the last time it came up in the Sunday lectionary was Pentecost, June 9, 2019).
The story is set in the distant past when humans were first gathering together and building cities. It relates how a group of humans migrated to the plains of Shinar (also known as Mesopotamia, modern day Iraq and Iran). [more]
You can view our live-stream on our YouTube channel. A link to this video will be posted to Facebook.
Sunday January 17, 2021 – 2nd Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Sunday January 24, 2021 – 3rd Sunday after the Epiphany Holy Eucharist, Rite II with Prayers of Spiritual Communion 10AM Live-streamed, In-person attendance limited to 10 The Rev. James Stambaugh, celebrant & preacher
Zoom Compline is held every night at 7:30PM A brief time of prayer and checking in with other members of CHA
“Zoom Compline has been really helped me through this difficult time. It’s such a great way to close the day.” – CHA Member
Zoom Bible Studyis held every Thursday at 11AM We will be starting a new book of the Bible in the next few weeks. Now is a great time to join us as we get ready to discover a new view on the never-changing promises of God.
*note: the password for all Zoom meetings is “love”
Announcements
+ Pledge Update: Hold Fast With 34 pledges received our current pledge number is $119,094. We are still expecting several more pledges and are on track to meet last year’s pledge amount and meet our budget needs for 2021. If you have been meaning to pledge, there’s still time! Send in your pledge card, or request a new one from James or JT. Thank you so much to everyone who gives of their time, talent, and treasure so that Holy Apostles can remain a faithful, hopeful, and generous community of faith that spreads the love of Jesus in our neighborhoods and world.
+ Outreach Opportunity – MLK Day Food & Supply Drive: On Monday, January 18, Haverford Township will hold a food & supply drive from 10am-2pm at the Haverford Community Recreation & Environmental Center, 9000 Parkview Drive, Haverford. Items to be collected: non-perishable food, paper products, cleaning supplies, baby care items including diapers, wipes and bottles, children’s clothes, pots & pans, books and school supplies. See Haverford Township website for more details.
+ “Bread for the Journey” – a virtual Epiphany pilgrimage! The season of Epiphany marks a time of journey, illumination, and the manifestation of God as a child of refugees. As a diocese in 2021, we will be walking a different kind of pilgrimage this year: a journey of inner illumination to discover where God is manifest among us today. This year-long journey begins with our first virtual pilgrimage in Epiphany. Recalling the holy family’s flight to Egypt, we will enter the sacred story of scripture and our own lives to share stories of migration, immigration, hope, fear, and flight. We hope that you’re able to join us for this special time together next Thursday, 1/21, at 6:30pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bread-for-the-journey-epiphany-refugee-pilgrimage-tickets-136346093837 The pilgrimage is free and open to all in the diocese – please feel free to share this invitation with others.
+ One Love: Our diocese has created an online platform where you can find inspirational videos, sermons by the bishop and other clergy, and online services. Visit DioPA One Love Online: https://episcopalpa.online.church
+Eucharistic Visits: During this time, the rector and trained Eucharistic ministers may visit others to bring them the Eucharist. Meeting in outdoor spaces of homes will be preferred. Contact the rector if you would like to schedule a visit.
+Giving: You can still mail pledge contributions to the church at this time. The mail is checked regularly. You can also securely give online. Go to holyapostlespa.org and click on the “Give” button on the top right hand corner of the webpage.
+ Online Worship: Online worship continues! We will be live-streaming each Sunday at 10AM. We will be calling on our virtual choir to provide music for us, and there will be occasional readings from members at home. It’s all happening on our YouTube Channel. Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button!
+ Happy Birthday! The following folks have birthdays in the month of January.2nd Paul March 4th Jamie Grant 5th Bradford Smith 7th Katie Gentile 8th Kalli Miller 20th Deborah Stambaugh 21st Maddie Johnson Paige Johnson 25th Christine Costello If your birthday, or the birthday of another parishioner in your family is missing, please notify the Parish Office at holyapostlespa@gmail.com
