The
Angelus
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral • Kansas City, Missouri •
Vol. 74, No. 4 • April 2005
Contents
From the Dean
Choral music fills the Cathedral in April
Flower memorials and thanksgivings from March
The Cathedral’s Financial Status
ECS’s new name reflects commitment to community of faith and
community at large
Adult Education for April
With sympathy
The Leaders in Children’s Education
Blakeslee Reading Society/Reel People
Spring gathering
Not your typical conference
A glimpse into the history of the Book of Common Prayer
News from Guild
of the Christ Child
Lobster Potluck
Summer camp plans underway
The Grace Choraliers: singing, learning, leading
Weekly Activities
Activities for the Month of April
From the Dean
Alleluia! Christ is risen!
Though I cannot identify the source, I once read that in certain places and in certain Christian traditions, Easter Monday is a day for telling jokes. The reason given was that since God played the ultimate joke on the Devil when His Son died and rose again, Easter Monday was a day for laughing and enjoying God’s gift of humor.
As we continue our celebration of the Great Fifty Days of Easter, I share with you but a few of my favorites. You may have heard some of these in sermons already, or will hear them in the future, but for your enjoyment and edification I offer the following.
This plaque honors the memory
of
Ernest B. Wellington
Vestryman of this parish for 29 years
A man full of the Holy Ghost,
and of
his Wife.
Two young boys saw Granny reading the Bible, and one said to the other, “What on earth is she doing?” The other replied, “Be quiet, don’t disturb her: she’s cramming for her finals.”
A young boy came downstairs and asked his father, who was a priest: “Dad, is it true that from dust we came and to dust we shall return?” His father replied, “Yes, that is quite right.” The boy said, “Well, do you mind coming upstairs and looking under my bed because I am not quite sure whether someone is coming or going.”
From a parish newsletter: “Upon reaching the age of 90, members of St. Mary’s Altar Guild will no longer be asked to pay dues. They will become Life Members.”
Small boy: Grandfather, were you in the Ark?
Grandfather (very grumpy): No, I was not!
Small boy (with relentless logic): Then why didn’t you drown?
Intercessor leading the Prayers of the People: “Now let us pray for those who are sick of this parish.”
Epitaph: Here lies the Reverend Donald MacIntyre, Missionary; Accidentally shot by his gun bearer whilst on a missionary journey in the bush. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Report from the General Convention: “A shiver ran through the meeting of the House of Bishops, looking for a spine to run down.” (Publisher’s note: It goes without saying that the Bishop of West Missouri was clearly absent that day. TW+)
Little Mary told her friend that a person must be brave these days to go to church. “I heard my uncle tell my aunt that last Sunday there was a canon in the pulpit, the choir murdered the anthem, and the organist drowned the congregation!”
A poverty-stricken Vicar wrote to his bishop to complain about the leaky basement at the Vicarage. “Completely flooded,” the Vicar wrote, “and all my poor hens that lived down there drowned.” The Bishop solved the problem: “Keep ducks.”
A cathedral dean owned a stumpy-tailed Fox Terrier, named Mark. Why Mark? The life of Jesus is told in four Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke and John—and the shortest tale is Mark.
A Bishop visited a parochial school. “I’ll give a quarter to the boy or girl who tells me who I am,” said the Bishop. A small boy said, “Please, Sir, you are God.” “No, I’m not,” said the Bishop, “but here’s a dollar.”
The Warden’s five year-old gathered her friends in the backyard to help her bury her goldfish. The service was very Prayer Book, concluding in familiar fashion: “In the Name of the Father, of the Son, and into the hole-he-goes. Amen.”
Some Things You Never Hear in Church:
1. Hey! It’s my turn to sit in the front pew!
2. I was so enthralled, I never noticed that your sermon went 25
minutes over time.
3. Personally I find worshipping much more enjoyable than golf or
sleeping in.
4. I love it when we sing hymns I’ve never heard before!
5. Since we’re all here, let’s start the service early.
Billy handed the priest a dollar bill as he was leaving church after a Sunday Eucharist. “What’s this for?” the priest asked. “You said that we should help the poor, right?” The priest was delighted. “Yes! I’m so glad you were listening!” Billy continued, “Well then, this dollar is for you, because my daddy says that you are the poorest preacher we’ve ever had.”
Take that, oh vanquished Devil! All creation is laughing, for the grave is defeated, and death is not the end, but the doorway to eternal life. May your joyous Eastertide be filled with laughter of all sorts.
The Lord is risen indeed! Alleluia!
With affection, yours in the Risen Christ,
Terry+
Choral music fills the Cathedral in April
Two renowned choral groups will visit the Cathedral in April, bringing with them two very different vocal styles.
The Christ Church Cathedral Choir from Oxford England will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6 as part of the Harriman Arts Program of William Jewell College. The Christ Church Cathedral Choir is one of the world’s leading choral ensembles and is always a popular guest any time they perform here.
The Choir has been active since 1526 and is currently made up of 16 boys and 12 men. Some of them are professional singers, but most are students at the Cathedral’s school. Their regular repertoire of performing and recording spans styles from Byrd and Palestrina to Janacek and Tippett.
This will be their third appearance at the Cathedral. They first visited in 1986, when the Nave was closed due to damage and a substitute location had to be found. They also came in 1999, when they sang an Evensong to open the new Founders’ Hall.
By coincidence, our own Trinity Choir will sing at Christ Church Cathedral as part of their tour of England, Ireland and Wales in Summer 2006. They will be in residence there for an entire week, taking over many of the regular musical responsibilities of the Cathedral. The Trinity Choir also visited Christ Church Cathedral in 1991.
Canon Musician John Schaefer says the Christ Church Cathedral Choir always enjoys visiting the heartland. “They like it here; they like the people. They also like the room and the organ. They will like the organ even more this time,” he said, referring to the recent renovation of our organ.
Tickets are $30 for General Admission, $25 for seniors, students and educators. Housing may still be needed for some of their members. Each household hosting a singer will receive two free tickets to the concert.
On Saturday, April 2 at 8:00 p.m., the Cathedral will host a concert by the Harvard Glee Club. This ensemble brings a significantly different style but with a similar devotion to music and professionalism.
The Harvard Glee Club was founded in 1858 and is the oldest college choir in the country. Made up of about 60 singers, they are often considered to be America’s premier college men’s chorus. Their repertoire ranges from Gregorian Chant to folk songs and is sure to be another crowd pleaser. This concert is also part of the Harriman Arts Program series. Tickets for this concert are also $30.
– by Chris Morrison
You can find more information on both concerts and order tickets at the website for the Harriman Arts Program: www.harrimanarts.org.
The Angelus
A laypersons’ newspaper published in the interest of Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral.
THE ANGELUS SMALL GROUP CONTRIBUTORS:
Emily Akins
Mary Byrne
Rachel Chambers
Jan Frizzle
John Hornbeck
Sergio C. Moreno
Chris Morrison
Cynthia Newman
Julie Toma, Editor
Submissions from parishioners and small groups are welcome and encouraged. All entries are requested by the 15th day of the month prior to publication via fax: (816) 474-5856 or e-mail: communications@ghtc-kc.org
Flower memorials and thanksgivings from March
March 6 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Robert Nodler by George, Kay, Scout and Marjorie; and in thanksgiving for the birthdays of Sophia Marrs, Sharon Emery and Deborah Marrs by Miriam Marrs. At the chapel altar, flowers are given in thanksgiving for Bob Ryder by Alan and Phyllis Ryder.
March 13 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of his sister, Mary-Scott Kaiser, by Leo Crabbs, Jr.
March 20 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in memory of Marie and John Allaman by the Larry L. McMullen Family; and in loving and blessed memory of Lillian and John Cozzi by their granddaughter, Tricia Pellet Lyddon. At the chapel altar, flowers are given in thanksgiving for the anniversary of Bob and Ann Ryder and in thanksgiving for the birthday of Lisa Ryder by Alan and Phyllis Ryder.
March 27 • Easter Flowers will appear in next month’s issue of The Angelus.
The Cathedral’s Financial Status
Pledges for the month of February and for the first two months of 2005 are ahead of budget. This is primarily because certain parishioners have paid their 2005 pledge in advance. While this does not solve our budget deficit for the year, it does help our cash flow position. Our expenditures are in-line with budget. Thank you to all who have pledged this year and a special thank you to the parishioners who have paid their pledges in advance.
– by Doyle White, treasurer
| FEBRUARY MTD | BUDGETED MTD | ACTUAL MTD |
| INCOME | $ 126,232 | $ 134,343 |
| EXPENSES | $ 126,314 | $ 128,801 |
| VARIANCE | $ (82) | $ 5,542 |
| FEBRUARY YTD | BUDGETED YTD | ACTUAL YTD |
| INCOME | $ 214,639 | $ 216,971 |
| EXPENSES | $ 234,585 | $ 232,027 |
| VARIANCE | $ (19,946) | $ (15,056) |
ECS’s new name reflects commitment to community of faith and community at large
KANSAS CITY, Mo.-Meals on Wheels. Operation Backpack. Missionpalooza. Servin’ Up Jazz. The programs are the same, but the group sponsoring them has a new name: Episcopal Community Services.
“This slight change in our name better reflects our mission,” says John A. Kost, chair of the Episcopal Community Services board. “We aren’t a social organization. We’re not social workers. We are engaged in mission and ministry in the local community in the dioceses of Kansas and West Missouri. We are also here to spark the Episcopal community into action and to provide support for them in their own parish-based ministries.”
Christ’s model of compassion, service and healing is at the heart of the Episcopal Community Services mission: to create opportunities to grow in faith through volunteer service and partnerships.
Founded in 1989, Episcopal Community Services is a joint ministry of the Episcopal dioceses of West Missouri and Kansas and a member of Episcopal Community Services in America, an organization that supports health and social ministries in the Episcopal Church. (Episcopal Community Services President Jay Lehnertz sits on that national board.) Other members include similar organizations in San Francisco, Minneapolis, Virginia and Connecticut.
“The name change is a logical result of strategic planning and conversations the board has been having about our vision and role in the community-both in the Episcopal community and the community at large,” says Kost.
Along with the new name, Episcopal Community Services has a new, distinctive logo and will soon unveil an updated website and marketing materials reflecting the name change and vision for the future.
As another result of the board’s strategic planning discussions, Episcopal Community Services has reframed its programs into three major areas of focus:
• Anti-Hunger Network
• Health Ministries
• Restorative Justice
Through a variety of feeding ministries-including Meals on Wheels, Breakfast and St. Paul’s, Kansas City Community Kitchen, and other parish-based pantries and kitchens-the Episcopal Church served more than 255,000 meals in our area last year.
“When we looked at those numbers, we had to conclude that anti-hunger is indeed a major focus of ours,” says Kost.
Health Ministries will be showcased April 8 when Episcopal Community Services and Saint Luke’s Health System present a workshop on Parish Health Ministries for clergy and lay leaders. A parish nursing program is currently in the development phase, and Episcopal Community Services has a long history in the area of health with its Hospital AfterCare Program, Nursing Home Ministry and former affiliation with the Turner House Clinic in Wyandotte County.
Restorative Justice, an ambitious, new initiative born of Episcopal Community Services’ focus on children at risk, is designed to bring healing to victims, offenders and communities. A collaborative effort with St. Francis Academy, the Victim Offender Reconciliation Program provides an alternative to the traditional judicial system for non-violent youth offenders.
For more information on these programs, for volunteer opportunities, or to make a donation to Episcopal Community Services, please call 816.561.8920.
Adult Education
All classes begin at 9:15 a.m.
Adult Forum • Founders’ Hall
April 3 • The Dean’s Forum, led by The Very Rev. Terry White
April 10 • Cathedrals of Ireland, led by John Hornbeck. View these beautiful cathedrals and the distinctive, notable architecture of these historical, spiritual places in Ireland. Also, we will discuss these cathedrals setting them within the framework of the history of Ireland.
April 17 • A Cathedral Building Explained, led by Ellen Goheen, Former Director of Collections and Exhibitions, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Explore the function and design of the architectural parts of Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral and of other great cathedrals such as Chartres, Notre Dame, Bourges, Salisbury, Wells and Durham. Learn the meaning of chancel, apse, clerestory, cloister, garth, and ambulatory and whether or not GHTC possesses any of these items.
April 24 • Cathedral Banners, led by Dick Fanolio, Designer and creator of our Cathedral banners, Dick Fanolio, will familiarize us with their meaning, which includes the Four Gospels and the Seasons of the Church Year. These banners replaced threadbare flags from World War 1 and the Second World War. They were designed in the mid sixties to be carried in the procession during services and to add color to the stone walls of the Cathedral. We will be talking about the fine points that went into the creation of the banners, selections of the colors, and selection of the symbols for these designs.
Religious Book Discussion • Common Room
The group will be discussing Christ on Trial: How the Gospel Unsettles our Judgment by Archbishop Rowan Williams. Bringing the biblical accounts of Jesus’ trial vividly to life, Archbishop Williams highlights what can be learned from each of the four Gospel portraits. Watch the Sunday announcements and the Bulletin Board for the group’s next reading selection. The books for this group are available at the Cathedral Bookstore.
Sunday Scripture Study • Youth Room
A Bible study centering on the scripture readings of the day will be held in Haden Hall’s Youth Room. Everyone is welcome to come and explore the Bible in a deeper way.
With sympathy
We ask that you remember the following parishioners and their families in your prayers this month:
• Kathy and Jim Jennings, on the death of Jim’s brother, Bill
• Bryan and Linda England, on the death of Linda’s father, Harold Dealey
• David Pierson, on the death of his father, David Wayne Pierson
The Leaders in Children’s Education
Part one in an ongoing series which introduces persons who work with the Cathedral’s Children’s Education ministry.
 |
|
| photo donated |
J. Gregory Morgan
When he moved to the Kansas City area in September 2001 , Greg came to the Cathedral because a member of the vestry told him that he “simply had to come here.” He became involved with children’s ministries in December 2004 after being asked to be a homily leader for the senior chapel (children in kindergarten through second grades).
Being a member of the Cathedral is important to Greg. “GHTC has been my spiritual home for nearly four years now. It’s a very special place,” he said. “Before I came here, I wanted to be anonymous when I attended church. Here I want to be involved and get to know people as well as participate in the liturgy and enjoy the music and all of that. It draws you in. The activities for adults are excellent. The parishioners are remarkable. I can’t imagine being anywhere else on Sunday mornings.”
Being involved with the Children’s Chapel “gives me a much better understanding of the readings for the week,” said Greg. “If you’re going to teach it to children, you have to have a pretty good idea what you’re going to say about it.”
“The best part for me is when I’m halfway through or I’ve finished the homily, and then you get the children’s comments or questions. Sometimes they’re pretty wide of the mark, and yet if you listen carefully you can understand what they’re saying from their point of view. Valuable. I really like the fact that the kids are participating in a junior version of the adult liturgy. Great training.”
For the children, Greg sees one benefit of the Children’s Chapel program is that the children have the opportunity to relate to adults from different parts of the parish community.
He feels the curriculum used in the chapels is excellent. “I like the children’s version of the Bible and the instructional materials. Very well done. It makes one proud of the way the Episcopal Church approaches children’s religious education,” he said.
Anyone considering being a part of the ministry should “consider whether you can make the time commitment. If you make it, it’s important to keep at it. People depend upon you,” according to Greg.
In addition to working with the Children’s Chapels, Greg is a part of the Men’s Bible Study, Small Dinner Group, Education for Ministry (EFM) and serves as a lay reader.
In his spare time, he likes to “read, read, read” but wishes he had more time to read, cook and write.
 |
|
| photo by Chris Morrison |
DeAnn Pasley McTavish
DeAnn McTavish, a Cathedral member, for more than 13 years, is a Church School teacher. Currently, she is in a team rotation, teaching children from third grade through fifth grade children. Children’s education has been DeAnn’s primary ministry at Grace and Holy Trinity for the last six years. Her initial involvement came because of the spiritual desire to support her son Graham’s formation and “I enjoyed it so much,” she said. Graham is now 12 years old and very active in the church.
DeAnn says, “Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral has been so great for Graham and me. I found the church when I was pregnant with Graham and the love and nurturing that was here convinced me that this was the place for us.”
“Meeting Dean Cavanaugh and finding him so kind and welcoming helped me to quickly feel part of the Cathedral,” she says. When Graham was born, he and DeAnn were baptized together on October 18, 1992.
About teaching Church School, DeAnn says, “Teaching has been a real blessing for me. I’ve had the opportunity to help and watch many children grow in height and in faith. I’ve been blessed to pray with them in joy and sadness. They help me to keep in touch with my own childlike awe of God’s love.”
DeAnn says the All Things New curriculum for her class “is great and I like it very much. It so neatly lays out the lessons plans from start to finish. The lessons are meaningful and they teach Episcopal faith basics. They provide unified message. Through words, age appropriate activities, and music, the children respond to the lessons. This curriculum addresses the learning styles of children. Through my reading and preparation I have grown tremendously in my faith too. The experience is quite fulfilling for me.”
 |
|
| photo by Chris Morrison |
Amy Cornwell
Amy came to the Cathedral in 1986 because of the choir and Dean Earl Cavanaugh. She and her husband Fred have a four-year-old son, Alexander.
As part of the Church School program, Amy has been teaching the preschool class (ages 3-5) for the last year. She became involved in the program last Easter.
“It was God. Last Easter, we attended the 10:15 service (we usually attended the 8:00 service) and June McDonald asked me to help with the children,” Amy said. “And she recruited me to help the following Sundays ... she was a great teacher for me to learn from.”
For her, the greatest benefit she’s received from being a Church School teacher is seeing how much the children learn, how much they want to learn and how much they remember. “Oh, and getting to know Angela Michka a lot better (she’s my co-teacher and we make a great team),” she added.
To those considering helping with the children’s ministry she suggests, “be happy the children can sense it and it becomes contagious.”
Her most memorable moments in teaching came last Christmas: the first was after telling the story of Jesus’ birth when two children debated if it was a “cow” or “oxen” in the stable. The second was following “the announcement by one 5-year-old of how Mary carried Jesus in her placenta. It created a lot of confused looks from other children.”
Amy’s class uses the Godly Play curriculum, which she says is excellent for the children: “they love it.”
In Amy’s spare time, she likes to read and spend time with her family. She wishes she had more time to adopt 25 more children.
– by Jackye Finnie,
Acting Children’s Education Director,
and Julie Toma, Communications Coordinator
photo by Chris Morrison
photo by Chris Morrison
photo donated
Blakeslee Reading Society
Come ready to discuss whatever book or books you are reading!
April 19 • 7:00 p.m.
Common Room
For further information,
please call
816.741.0992.
Reel People
A RUMOR OF ANGELS
April 27 • 6:30 p.m.
Common Room
For further information,
please call 816.741.0992.
Spring gathering
The Cathedral’s Eucharistic Visitors are hosting a Spring Gathering for those to whom they take communion.
The idea for this gathering was born out of the Eucharistic Visitors’ (EV) experience with those unable to attend. These Cathedral members have the opportunity to hear about the service and the sermon from the EVs who bring them communion. But they still long to attend services in person and they still miss being at the church.
The Eucharistic Visitors wanted to give them an opportunity to worship comfortably and easily, a chance to enjoy being part of the church community, even though they are not physically able to attend services regularly. These members are also encouraged to invite their family and friends to worship with them.
A committee including Peg Brown, Jan Frizzle, Lenette Johnson, Paula Connors, and Deacon Linda Yeager have planned a brief afternoon service that is designed to accommodate the many needs that make it difficult for these members to come on a regular basis.
The Spring Gathering will be held in the Nave on Saturday, April 23, at 1:30 p.m.: all the clergy will be in attendance and the service will include music, a brief homily, and Eucharist. There will also be a reception afterwards in Founders’ Hall.
– by Emily Akins
Not your typical conference
Most of us have attended conferences. You know how they can be: First, pick up your large registration packet at the table complete with coupons, advertising and a sprawling schedule of times and locations throughout a chlorine-scented (or musty) hotel. Second, don your nametag (which also serves as your ‘pass’ to every activity over the next three days). Third, proceed to the opening keynote address, open your pad of paper, and pour a glass of ice water to STAY AWAKE! Repeat Step 3 MANY times over the next 3 days.
Hopefully you have packed clothing that will take you through any season regardless of the calendar, because some days you will want the wool sweater and other days you’ll wish you were in cotton. Let’s face it, the classes in the “Ballroom” are going to be chilly and the workshops held in the smaller rooms will be warm. Real conference-goers dress in layers. By the time the three days are over, you have collected enough literature and gadgets to warrant an additional carry on bag to have screened at the airport!
Most, if not all, conferences I have attended were similar to the above description complete with a worn out self upon returning home and an overwhelmed brain. Well, the conference I had the privilege recently to attend was not like this at all! The conference to which I am referring was the “Today’s Disciples in Today’s World” held at the Embassy Suites near the KCI airport (or MCI for those who identify with the baggage claim tags). This was a national conference sponsored by Provinces VI and VII of the Episcopal Church on February 24-26-that’s three days.
This conference was all about doing things differently and, as my home group leader described it, “these conference planners stepped outside of the box and blew it up!” I like that. In the recent publication of the West Missouri Spirit, (Vol. 20. No. 2) The Rev. John Spicer, vicar, Good Shepherd, Springfield, Missouri, describes the conference and some wonderful quotes from our leaders and attendees. Please view his article for more details. However, I’d like to share a bit about the format that was especially user friendly and inspiring, in my opinion.
First, we all had a ‘home’ within the larger conference. Home groups provided an opportunity to become more acquainted within a smaller community and sort of ‘debrief ’ from each keynote and other experiences. Keynote addresses were artfully built upon the previous ones and were all less than one hour. We did not simply listen, take notes and tuck our notes inside the packet. We had the opportunity to take our notes to our home group and discuss. (Of course, this led to more note taking!)
When not in a home group or at a keynote address, there were learning opportunities to explore. They really were called “learning opportunities”! Rather than putting us in a room to hear about what is included in a particular curriculum and the pros and cons of its use, we actually were taken through a sample session. For example, those interested in “Via Media” were able to experience session 4 of a multiple session program. We had the opportunity to not only participate, but also express our opinions about how this may work best in different parishes. The feedback from the learners was valuable and insightful. Not only did we get to ‘test drive’ the program, we were suggesting ways to ‘customize’ the model for various uses! I loved the exchange of creative ideas!
At a recent Adult Forum, Whitney Rice echoed what we were hearing at this conference. That is, many people coming in to the church want to know more about the Bible and discover ways to find meaning in their lives while trying to raise families and preserve values in an ever changing world. Although this seems fairly basic, it is not so easy! What about evangelism? Well, after a sample one-hour session on evangelism, new meaning to the words, “graciously accepted” surfaced! I was moved by the discussion and forever changed about what “evangelism” really is, and how incredibly meaningful the Prayer of Thanksgiving is when truly thought about word by word. So many times I have merely recited it while looking up the next hymn number.
This conference experience was like no other. I was relaxed, rested and restored.
And the bonus? There was no packing for the changing seasons of the Embassy Suites and no additional carry on luggage! Be on the lookout for your new “learning opportunities”. I look forward to our time in Christian formation together.
– by Valerie Johnson, Adult Christian Education Coordinator
A glimpse into the history of the Book of Common Prayer
Episcopalians are often called “People of the Book,” which, of course, is true. We are tied to The Book of Common Prayer (BCP) both for liturgy and prayers. The form and style of our book, however, has evolved over a period of well over 400 years.
Recently, Harold Phillips, a parishioner, loaned me a copy of the BCP, with a date of 1858. Finding this well-preserved and beautiful volume fascinating, I decided to do a little research on the many revisions of the BCP since the first edition.
Although a formal break with Rome came about during the time of Henry VIII, the Church of England continued to use Latin liturgies. After Henry died and Edward VI ascended to the throne in 1547, changes came about in the church. A group of bishops met and produced the first Book of Common Prayer. It is generally assumed that this book is largely the work of Archbishop Thomas Cranmer.
This BCP used several sources as its foundation. First and foremost was the Latin liturgy developed in Salisbury in the thirteenth century, and widely used in England. Two other influences were a reformed Roman Breviary of the Spanish Cardinal Quiρones, and a book on doctrine and liturgy by Hermann von Wied, Archbishop of Cologne.
This first prayer book was used for only three years, until the extensive revision of 1552. Many in the new church objected to not only the services themselves, but also to what they believed to be overly elaborate altars and vestments for the clergy. Archbishop Cranmer was himself one of these reformers, and the result was the revision of 1552, which intended to move the Church in a more “Protestant” direction.
Some of the changes included adding Introductory Sentences, Exhortation, Confession and Absolution to Morning and Evening Prayer. Many changes were also made in the Communion office, including addition of the Decalogue, omission of the Introit, a new prayer of Consecration, and rearrangement of parts of the service. Exorcism, anointing, the chrism, and triple immersion were omitted from the Baptism service. The use of reserved sacrament was left ambiguous in the Visitation of the Sick. The Burial service was drastically shortened, omitting Communion, prayers for the dead, and the psalms.
The book was introduced at the very end of 1552, and preceded the death of the young and sickly King Edward by only six months. Edward was succeeded by Queen Mary, who quickly outlawed the Book of Common Prayer and restored the Latin rites of the Roman Catholic Church. So this prayer book never even came into general usage in England.
The Prayer Book of 1559 was the third revision for the Anglican Church, and was brought about by the reign of Elizabeth I and the restoration of the Anglican Church after the six-year rule of Queen Mary. It was in use much longer than either of its predecessors - nearly 100 years, until the Long Parliament of 1645 outlawed it as part of the Puritan Revolution. This was the first Prayer Book used in America, brought here by the Jamestown settlers and others in the early 1600s.
Another English revision was made in 1662. The Proposed Prayer Book of 1786 was the first effort of the U. S. Episcopal Church to produce its own BCP after the Revolutionary War. Although the Book was authorized in nearly every state, it was the result of a convention of only a portion of the American Church. Its publication received much resistance, with many believing that it deviated too much from its predecessor, the 1662 English BCP. Accordingly, its life was relatively short, being replaced by a formally authorized Prayer Book in 1790.
Some of the main changes in the American revisions include the following: The term “Minister” is substituted for “Priest” in most places where it occurs. Prayers for the King and Royal Family were altered or dropped. The Nicene Creed was omitted in Holy Communion (this proved to be probably the most controversial change). Burial was allowed to those unbaptized. The Prayer Book of 1789 served the Church for over 100 years, until the revision of 1892. During that time it was subject to minor changes by each General Convention.
The Prayer Book of 1892 was the second for the Episcopal Church, and served for over 35 years, until 1928. The 1892 Prayer Book was a conservative revision; little of substance was changed from its predecessor. Perhaps for this reason its tenure was relatively short, being replaced by a much more extensive revision in 1928.
The 1928 Book of Common Prayer served the Episcopal Church for fifty years, from 1928 until 1978. The 1928 revision was very extensive - perhaps the most radical US prayer book revision until that of 1979. Some of the many changes from the previous 1892 book included dropping liturgies of rather outdated theology, such as the Visitation of Prisoners; the three baptism rites were combined into one; and several changes were made to the Communion service, including further de-emphasis of the Decalogue, and rearrangement of the Lord’s Prayer and the Prayer of Humble Access back to the position they had in the Prayer Book of 1549.
The 1979 revision reflects changes in both culture and liturgical scholarship and is still in use today. As with recent revisions in other Anglican churches, this revision was the most extensive since 1552. The form of the services and the theology expressed in the prayers reflect early Christian norms more than previous versions of the BCP, which were more influenced by the Protestant Reformation.
Controversial, influential, dependable: the BCP guides and directs the worship of the Episcopal Church. Perhaps another revision will occur in this century; others believe that worshippers will be offered more choices through the publication of alternative liturgies and prayers. The one constant that I find, browsing through the old volumes is that the beauty, dignity and depth of the BCP will never be outdated.
– by the Rev. Linda Yeager, Deacon
See the Cathedral website's Links page for more websites about the Book of Common Prayer
News from Guild of the Christ Child
Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who donated candy and eggs for the Easter Egg Hunt. A special Thank you to the Youth who braved the chilly morning to scatter the eggs and Mom’s Bible Study for stuffing those eggs. This annual event is so much fun for the children and those who organize it. We are blessed by your generosity each and every year, thanks to all of you for helping to make it such a sweet success.
The Parish Picnic is just around the corner; mark your calendars for May 22! GCC will again be sponsoring Wonderscope and their “Sticky Business” program for the children. For those with tweens, we are looking for and open to suggestions for activities. Contact Dolly McCarson at 816.523.0664.
We have had a slight lull in the birth of babies, but business will be picking up shortly. There is always room for those who like to cook and wish to prepare a meal for families with new arrivals. Please contact Angela Michka at 816.753.4742 so she can add your name to our list of meal preparers.
Lobster Potluck
The Trinity Choir sponsored a potluck dinner following the sale of lobsters. All proceeds went to the Choir Tour Fund.
The Choir will be touring England, Ireland and Wales in 2006.
Summer camp plans underway
The Diocese of West Missouri has arranged with the YMCA Camp Marvin Hillyard to host the third-fourth and fifth-sixth grade camps this summer, June 27-July 2.
In order for the camps to be successful, 16 counselors, eight women
and eight men, are needed to serve as
cabin counselors and small group leaders.
They also need four adults to help the
camp cook and four adults to serve on
the support staff team. No camping experience is necessary!
Boys and girls in third through sixth grades in the 2005-2006 are eligible to come to camp this summer. The camp will feature horseback riding and swimming (staffed by the YMCA).
Camp Marvin Hillyard is located five miles southeast of St. Joseph.
Registration forms and information are available at: www.diowestmo.org.
The Grace Choraliers: singing, learning, leading
The Episcopal Church has a rich tradition of fine music. Here at Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral, four choirs make a profound contribution to our liturgical worship. On Palm Sunday the youngest choirs, The Grace Choraliers, performed “Piι Jesu.” Their gift to us that day was one of joy as we listened to their clear, sweet harmony.
This vocal ensemble of fifteen members, ages eight through twelve, rehearse Sunday mornings in the Common Room beginning at 10:15 a.m. from September through May. The Choraliers now stay in service on the days they are scheduled to perform– just as the Trinity and Tallis choirs do.
 |
|
| The
Grace Choraliers - photo by Jan Frizzle |
The Choraliers took on this new responsibility February 6 where they sang many hymns along with the Alleluia and Gospel Verse. During communion, two flutes and harpsichord accompanied their singing a lovely offering by Bach. Choraliers’ Director Malinda McCasland felt this new experience was important to the children’s understanding that they are giving their spiritual gifts of music while learning how our service is structured through their leadership.
Singing a cappella requires the utmost in concentration, skill and practice, as no instruments are used to help them listen for correct pitch. Their rehearsals are usually broken into three segments, 1) vocal, breathing and sight-reading warm-ups, 2) introduction or review of music, 3) music skill games and activities.
Members enjoy hearing about basic music theory, proper vocal technique, beginning part singing, and the spiritual meaning of our lyrics in a positive and motivational rehearsal environment.
When asked why they love being in the group, these young musicians responded with answers such as: singing to everyone makes me happy; being with friends; it helped me be a better singer; it’s fun and when you sing, it makes you feel good because you are praising God.
David Barker, Music Committee Chairman, adds, “The Choralier program presents an opportunity, unique in among the Episcopal churches in the area, to train in the art of vocal, sacred music. The learning experiences the children have will serve them for the rest of their lives.”
 |
|
|
Malinda McCasland - photo by Julie Toma |
At the beginning of the year’s enrollment meeting, all members and parents meet with the director to go over expectations, goals and sign a commitment that all information is clearly understood. Members and their families are asked to give thoughtful consideration to the commitment needed for participation in The Grace Choraliers.
At the end of the year, all celebrate with a fun group field trip activity.
Remaining services for the season include, Sunday April 24, and Youth Sunday, May 22. The Choraliers also sing three to four pieces, sung both in harmony and a cappella, during the 5:00 p.m. Christmas Eve service, which are traditionally.
Malinda has more than fifteen years experience as a vocal music educator and director. The group is accompanied by the Cathedral’s Curdy Organ Scholar, Jieun Kim Newland.
If you would like additional information about membership in The Choraliers, contact Mrs. McCasland at 913.829.7016 or email at mjmccasland@aol.com. New members who are in second to sixth grade, love to sing and are willing to make a thoughtful commitment are encouraged to join.
– by Malinda McCasland and Jan Frizzle
Weekly Activities
SUNDAY
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist
9:15 a.m. Christian Education
10:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist --
Children’s Chapel --
Grace Choraliers
5:00 p.m. Order for Evening & Eucharist
MONDAY-FRIDAY
8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
5:30 p.m. Evening Prayer
TUESDAY
1:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study
WEDNESDAY
7:00 p.m. Youth Group
THURSDAY
7:00 a.m. Men’s Bible Study
9:30 a.m. Cathedral Outreach Program
6:00 p.m. Cathedral Bell Ringers
6:30 p.m. EFM
7:00 p.m. Choir Small Group
7:30 p.m. Trinity Choir
FRIDAY
9:30 a.m. Moms’ Bible Study
SATURDAY
9:15 a.m. The Tallis Singers
Activities for the Month of April
Please verify times and dates of the events listed with the appropriate person(s) or by contacting the Cathedral Office.
2 • SATURDAY
10:00 a.m. Baptism Class
8:00 p.m. Harvard Glee Club Concert
3 • SUNDAY
11:45 a.m. Music Committee
5 • TUESDAY
6:00 p.m. Table Top Games Small Group
6:30 p.m. Needlework/Quilting Small Group
6 • WEDNESDAY
6:00 p.m. Moving Meditation
6:30 p.m. Couples’ Bible Study
7:30 p.m. Christ Church Choir Concert
10 • SUNDAY • BLOOD PRESSURE SUNDAY
11:45 a.m. Social Action Committee
11 • MONDAY
5:00 p.m. Stewardship Committee
12 • TUESDAY
6:00 p.m. Guild of the Christ Child
7:00 p.m. Cancer Support Group
7:00 p.m. The Angelus Small Group
13 • WEDNESDAY
6:00 p.m. Moving Meditation
14 • THURSDAY
6:30 p.m. Thursday Evening Bible Study
16 • SATURDAY
10:00 a.m. Baptism Class
17 • SUNDAY
12:00 p.m. Eucharistic Visitors’ Lunch
18 • MONDAY
4:30 p.m. Building and Grounds Meeting
19 • TUESDAY
6:00 p.m. Table Top Games Small Group
7:00 p.m. Book Discussion Group
20 • WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. Finance Committee
6:00 p.m. Moving Meditation
6:30 p.m. Couples’ Bible Study
23 • SATURDAY
1:30 p.m. Spring Gathering
24 • SUNDAY
12:00 p.m. People Caring for Family and
Friends Small Group
12:00 p.m. Newcomers’ Luncheon
7:00 p.m. Recital: Jieun Kim Newland
27 • WEDNESDAY
6:00 p.m. Moving Meditation
6:30 p.m. Reel People
28 • THURSDAY
5:00 p.m. Vestry
6:30 p.m. Thursday Evening Bible Study
MAY 1 • SUNDAY
2:00 p.m. Bachathon
The Episcopal Diocese of West Missouri
P.O. Box 412048
Kansas City, Missouri 64141
Telephone: (816) 474-8260
Facsimile: (816) 474-5856
Website: www.ghtc-kc.org
E-mail: office@ghtc-kc.org
The Right Rev. Barry R. Howe
Bishop of West Missouri
The Very Rev. Terry White
Dean
The Rev. Benjamin J. Newland
Associate Priest
The Rev. Linda Yeager
Deacon
The Rev. Bryan England
Deacon
The Rev. Bruce Hall
Deacon
Mr. John L. Schaefer
Canon Musician
The Very Rev. J. Earl Cavanaugh
Dean Emeritus and Pastoral Adjunct