The
Angelus
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral • Kansas City, Missouri •
Vol. 74, No. 6 • June 2005
Contents
From the Dean
New aumbry and votive stand crafted for Cathedral nave
The Cathedral’s Financial Status
Flower memorials and thanksgivings
Adult Education for June
Spring Gathering: For we all share one bread, one cup
Piano for Sale
The Leaders in Children’s Education
Cathedral members graduate from EFM
News from Guild of the Christ Child
Time changes in store for Tallis Singers, Grace Choraliers
Music Notes
Thank You!
Getting back to work in the Episcopal Church
Summer Music at the Cathedrals
Book Discussion Group/Reel People
Weekly Activities
Activities for the Month of April
From the Dean
I have a good friend who once led a retreat on the Church’s seasons. With tongue-in-cheek he praised the Season after Pentecost as the Green Season, when the liturgical color is green, there are no holy days with special liturgies, and everything looks and sounds pretty much the same month after month until Advent!
“The clergy,” he said, “can slow down, and the hectic hum of the previous seasons gives way to a slower and more peaceful pace. Yes, I love the busyness of Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter, but honestly, give me the Green Season and its easy life!”
The Green Season here at the Cathedral this summer promises to be not so slow and quiet. We have some thank yous to speak, a parting sure to be filled with laughter and tears, a welcome to plan, and a new beginning to celebrate.
In April, Fr. Ben announced that Jieun has been accepted into the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, meaning that they would be leaving Kansas City. We shall miss Jieun and Ben, and give thanks for their presence among us on July 10, Ben’s final Sunday at the Cathedral, when he will preach at all services. (See Canon Schaefer’s article on Jieun here.)
In late April, I accepted with regret Jackye Finnie’s resignation as Acting Coordinator of Children’s Formation in order for her to accept an offer to return to full time employment. She was honored at the 10:15 a.m. liturgy on Youth Sunday, in appreciation for her work creating and growing the Cathedral’s program.
Though Jackye has stepped down as a staff member, she and Joe will continue to be active members of the parish. Thanks to her gift for building a strong team, we have a dedicated group of teachers who have assumed tasks for the summer to ensure that our 9:15 program, children’s chapels, and library will be well cared for until a new formation coordinator is in place. For the summer, Valerie Johnson will be the staff liaison to the children’s program.
As these beloved members of the Cathedral staff accept new calls, we are grateful for all they have meant to us. We also know, that in time, others will join us to build upon their work.
On Saturday, June 4, at 10:30 a.m. the Cathedral will host a festive liturgy where two newly graduated seminarians, both called to the priesthood, will be ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons, known as the transitional diaconate, and two former Roman Catholic priests will have their Holy Orders received by Bishop Howe. We have a special reason to celebrate with one of the new deacons and with one of the newly received priests.
Carol Sanford, who graduated in May with a M.Div. degree from the Church Divinity School of the Pacific in Berkeley, Calif., has accepted the call to serve halftime as Curate at the Cathedral and half-time on the Bishop’s staff as the new Coordinator of Campus Ministry for our diocese. Deacon Carol and her husband Grady will be with us Sunday, June 5, when she will serve as Deacon of the Word at the 10:15 a.m. Eucharist.
It is a wonderful coincidence that the children’s choir of Christ Church, Springfield, Carol’s home parish, was scheduled months ago to sing at the Cathedral on that Sunday. The Vestry has approved the creation of this new position that will begin in mid-August, when we will more formally welcome the Sanfords.
The June 4 liturgy will also be an especially joyous day for us when one of our own, the Reverend Victor Sarrazin, previously ordained priest in the Roman communion, will be received as a Priest of this Church. Father Victor will then celebrate the Holy Eucharist the following day, Sunday, June 5, at 10:15 a.m.
These two days will be wonderfully important times of celebration for Victor and Rhonda, Elizabeth, Benjamin and Rebekah, and for all who have supported Victor during his time of discernment and study. We have been blessed by his preaching during his discernment process; now we will also be blessed as he takes his place presiding at the Holy Table.
While our Green Season will not be slow and lazy, it promises to be a time of growth blessed by the Spirit. May we give thanks for the many ways God blesses us through the people we are privileged to know.
With my love in Christ,
Terry+
PS: Pat Wright is coordinating hospitality following the 10:30 a.m. ordination liturgy on Saturday, June 4. Let her know that you will help with time, food, and/or money to make this a most festive reception!
New aumbry and votive stand crafted for Cathedral nave
The Cathedral congregation is grateful to Bud McDowell for two extraordinary pieces of woodwork that now adorn the nave and house sacred oils used in the celebration of certain sacraments.
Affixed to the wall near the baptismal font is an aumbry containing two holy oils associated with Holy Baptism and the rites of initiation. One cruet is labeled SC, sanctum chrisma, Sacred Chrism, which is olive oil infused with a perfume. Throughout the Holy Scriptures this oil has been used to anoint God’s prophets, priests, and kings.
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| The aumbry, containing both the Sacred Chrism and the Oil of the Catechumens, was made by Bud McDowell. Dick Fanolio added the golden accents. |
A second cruet, labeled OC, oleum catechumenorum, contains the Oil of the Catechumens, which may be used to anoint adults who enter the catechumenate, a period of study and preparation leading to Baptism.
Sacred Chrism is used at every baptism, when a cross of oil is traced on the forehead with the words: “You are sealed by the Holy Spirit in Baptism, and marked as Christ’s own forever.”
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| The Anglican votive stand, designed and crafted by Bud McDowell, is near the rear of the Nave at the Healing Desk. The Oil of the Infirm is reserved in this votive stand. Candles may be lit as a continuing sign of prayer. |
The second piece defies an easy label, but is called for now an Anglican votive stand. Lighted tapers are placed in white sand as a continuing sign of prayer. The kneeler before the stand is where the laying on of hands for healing is offered at the Sunday Eucharist.
A cruet marked OI, oleum infirmorum, Oil of the Infirm, which is used for the sacrament of healing, is reserved in the votive stand.
All three oils are blessed by the Bishop at a special liturgy near the end of Lent where the clergy also renew their ordinations vows and gather around their chief pastor before entering Holy Week and the celebration of the Resurrection.
For the aumbry, Bud used a model found in a religious supply catalog. The Anglican votive stand is his original design. Both pieces are stained to match existing pieces in the nave.
Dick Fanolio added his talents by applying golden accents to the aumbry, which matches the reredos behind the baptismal font.
It is clear than not only skill, but also prayer and devotion, created these pieces, and the whole parish says “thank you.”
– by the Very Rev. Terry White, Dean
The Cathedral’s Financial Status
Income this year has matched or exceeded budget every month and April continued that positive trend. Thank you for your support.
Expenses in April exceeded budget after being on budget through March. Expenses do fluctuate from month to month and we expect expenses to be back on budget in May.
Many excellent opportunities for ministry await the Cathedral. Working together we will achieve great things in the service of God.
– by Doyle White, treasurer
| APRIL MTD | BUDGETED MTD | ACTUAL MTD |
| INCOME | $ 114,582 | $ 114,151 |
| EXPENSES | $ 115,078 | $ 125,075 |
| VARIANCE | $ (496) | $ (10,924) |
| APRIL YTD | BUDGETED YTD | ACTUAL YTD |
| INCOME | $ 414,054 | $ 449,004 |
| EXPENSES | $ 464,506 | $ 475,591 |
| VARIANCE | $ (50,452) | $ (26,587) |
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
May 1 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving for Jennifer Christen Alley and John Trumbull Carr by Mary Jo Browne. The flowers at the baptismal font are given in thanksgiving for their granddaughters, Gracelyn Frances Leonard and Maya Ellen McLeroy by Carolyn and Ron McLeroy; and in thanksgiving for the anniversary of Carl and Vicki Ryder by Alan and Phyllis Ryder. Memorial candles are given in loving memory of her sister, Dorothy, by Laura Leib.
May 8 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving for H. Tully Moss by his wife, Ruth; and in loving memory of Marie Hall Pence and Elizabeth Shelton Sifers by Mr. and Mrs. William L. Pence. At the baptismal font, flowers are given in loving memory of their grandmother, Cynthia Warrick Kemper, by Cynthia, Andrew and August Dietrich.
May 15 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Edward Gordon, by Elizabeth Gordon; and in loving memory of her husband, Albert Franklin Wallace, by Sharyl L. Wallace; also in loving memory of Bill Haberland by his wife, Clint, and his family. At the baptismal font, flowers are given in thanksgiving for Caro Fowler. Memorial candles are given in memory of The Right Reverend Jackson Kemper, first Missionary Bishop in the United States, by Shelia Kemper and Walter Reich Dietrich.
May 22 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Louise T. Morrison and Peggy Sloan by Mrs. Herbert A. Sloan. At the baptismal font, flowers are given in loving memory of their grandfather, Leslie Shaw, by Page Branton Reed and Leslie Branton Hoffecker; and in thanksgiving for the Church School community, clergy, teachers, parents committee and the congregation supporters, by Joe and Jackye Finnie. At the chapel altar, flowers are given in thanksgiving for their daughter Elizabeth, and for the anniversary of Kathleen and Brad, by Ron and Carolyn McLeroy; and in thanksgiving for the birthday of Mela Mlivo, by Alan and Phyllis Ryder.
May 29 • The flowers are the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of David C. Ludwig, Sr., by Samuel and Dorothy Gershman and Nan, Paul and Andie Schooling; and in loving memory of her husband, Kenneth E. Arnold, and their beloved son, Charles R. Arnold, by Mrs. Mildred Arnold; also in loving memory of Edward and Margaret Gillespie, Judith Gillespie Sines and Mary Gillespie Brizendine by Joyce Gillespie. At the baptismal font, flowers are given in thanksgiving for her children, Mary Ellen Heger and John Frances Toner, and their children, by Mrs. Evelyn Toner; and in thanksgiving for Jake McDowell.
Adult Education
All classes begin at 9:15 a.m.
Murder in the Cathedral • Founders’ Hall
During the month of June, it’s Canterbury time! Join The Very Rev. Terry White on June 5, for an introduction to Canterbury as we prepare for the exploration and dramatization in verse of the murder of Thomas Becket at Canterbury.
The play, Murder in the Cathedral, was written 70 years ago by T.S. Eliot, poet. GHTC member, Tom Brous, will lead us on June 12, 19 and 26. We will complete an overview of the play and parts will be assigned. No audition necessary, just unbridled enthusiasm! Copies of the play are available in the GHTC 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.
Spring Gathering: For we all share one bread, one cup
“We who are many are one body, for we all share one bread, one cup.” With these words, Eucharistic Visitors are handed their communion kits and leave the church on Sunday to go to the homes of the congregations’ shut-ins.
But on a sunny April afternoon, Saturday, April 23, those who normally receive communion at home were present for a special service in the nave of the Cathedral.
The Eucharistic Visitors, along with family members, made special efforts to gather together those who are unable to attend church regularly. Provisions were made for special needs.
The Cathedral clergy were in attendance; Dean Terry White celebrated from the portable altar on the floor of the nave. Joyful Easter hymns filled the air; three of the Eucharistic Visitors who are also members of the choir, Lenette Johnson, Sally Livengood, and Leona Schaefer, Spring Gathering: Because we all share one bread, one cup shared a musical offering.
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| Gift given to those
attending the Spring Gathering. -photo by Julie Toma |
A reception in Founders’ Hall followed the service, and each special attendee received a spring floral gift.
The idea for this gathering came from the Eucharistic Visitors who noted that the shut-ins often spoke of the longing to be in church once again but also of the difficulties in attending a regular service.
Peg Brown headed the committee that planned the reception; Jan Frizzle designed and coordinated the decorations and gifts. Invitations were sent to shut-ins, their families, and all Eucharistic Visitors, with follow-up phone calls to make arrangements for transportation and special needs.
Many smiles, hugs, and tears accompanied the events on this meaningful afternoon.
“We plan to make this an annual event,” said Deacon Linda Yeager, who coordinates the Eucharistic Visitors.
When did you learn something significant about God?
When did you experience something significant with God?
Who was a part of those significant times with you?
Piano for Sale
We have learned that a Steinway grand piano once owned by the late Mary Dawson, longtime member of the Cathedral and of the Trinity Choir, is for sale by its current owner. If you wish more information, please contact Dr. Tim Brewer at 913-248-8880.
The Leaders in Children’s Education
Part three in an ongoing series which introduces persons who work with the Cathedral’s Children’s Education ministry.
Ruth Fenger
It’s safe to say, without revealing any secrets, that Ruth Fenger
is the youngest Church School teacher in Haden Hall on Sunday
mornings. Ruth, 15, has been volunteering in Church School
since she was 12. At an age where many young people are
devoted to themselves, Ruth is devoted to helping others.
Through her ministry as a Church School teacher, Ruth has performed her Christian duty as a “fisher of mom”, bringing her mother, Gina, into the fold of teachers on Sundays.
Now in her third year as a kindergarten through second grade teacher, Ruth feels blessed in “seeing the children grow spiritually.” She feels that the children are benefiting from learning more about God and Jesus.
She places great value on the Godly Play curriculum. “The visuals make the children want to learn more.”
If you want to become part of the children’s ministry, Ruth encourages you to leave your worries at the door and “have fun!”
Ruth is sophomore at Park Hill South High School. She is in the National Honor Society, which requires a minimum 3.5 grade point average and 20 volunteer service hours. Ruth has already logged 60 hours so far.
Her volunteer activities, in addition to being a Church School teacher, include the A+ program through the Park Hill School District, assisting seniors at Wexford Place, a retirement community, with email and Internet use.
She is a member of the Sophomore Executive Council; Key Club; Family, Career and Community Leaders of America; Center Stage, a theater club which provides acting clinics for elementary and middle school students; and President of Future Educators of America, whose activities include providing teachers with supplies and dressing bears for children in the hospital.
Ruth is also a member of the Spanish Club, Art Club and a book club to which she has belonged since eighth grade. She loves to dance and is a great fan of the Day Planner. If she had more time, she would fill it with reading.
Joyce Morrow
Joyce Morrow, a Children’s Chapel Homily leader, has been
attending Grace and Holy Trinity for so many years that she can no
longer recall whether she began in 1982 or 1983. Her daughter’s
Youth Symphony performance was the reason she came.
Twenty-something years later, she is still drawn in by our youth. When Jackye Finnie asked Joyce to serve in the Children’s ministry, she says that she was honored to say yes. As a Homily leader, Joyce ministers to three and four year olds. She enjoys this age group very much and gets a kick out of their innocent yet forthright contributions.
“The children’s responses and interactions” are one of the greatest benefits Joyce has attained through this ministry. The curriculum receives high marks from Joyce as well.
“For the Chapel, a simplified regular service is offered and it shows the parts of the services in ways the children ‘get’.”
“Modeling of church behavior, activities and liturgy” are invaluable lifetime benefits that the children receive, according to Joyce. “I see the growth in understanding the patterns of the service for those who attend regularly. I especially enjoy the children’s ideas for the Prayers of the People.”
For anyone considering this part of the Children’s ministry Joyce advises, “Come to the children’s level and note that I didn’t say ‘down to’ their level.”
Joyce is very involved in many aspects of Cathedral life. She is the chair of Holy Hands hospitality and a member of Altar Guild, EFM, Needlework Group, Women’s Retreat (six years), Lay Reader (Lector), and Cathedral Caregivers Prayer Chain.
Joyce is married to Ben and has three grown children. In her spare time her greatest pleasures are knitting, cooking, gardening, reading, quilting, basketry, sewing, aviation, studies and spending time with her grandchildren.
Gina Fenger
Gina Fenger is a Church School teacher for kindergarten through
second graders.
Encouraged by her neighbor, Marc Vance, to come to the Cathedral, Gina has been attending, with her husband Donald and daughters Ruthie and Gracie, since 1997.
While her lovely daughters have modeled much of their fine behavior from their mother, what brought Gina to Children’s Ministry was a case of like daughter, like mother.
“My youngest daughter, Ruth, started volunteering in Sunday School.” Gina soon began helping her daughter in class on Sundays and fell in love with this age group of young learners. This is Gina’s second year as a Church School teacher.
Gina derives a great deal of satisfaction from teaching. “Feeling needed by the children of Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral” is one of the many benefits she attains through her ministry. Gina enjoys seeing the children from her class on Sunday morning.
“They are so happy and are always eager to learn. It is a great way to start the week!” Gina is a fan of the Godly Play curriculum.
“The curriculum is easy for the children to understand. They like the interaction with the other children and with their teachers during the lessons,” said Gina.
Gina has high praise for the GHTC Church School Ministry. “Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral is working hard, along with Jackye Finnie, to make sure our children will have a lifetime of memories that will keep them close to God.”
Her suggestion to those considering teaching Church School: “If you enjoy children and find them interesting, then the Children’s Ministry is for you!”
In her spare time Gina likes to garden, read and watch films. She wishes she had more time to study. One thing she always has time for are hugs and attention for the little ones in her Church School class.
– by DeAnn McTavish
Cathedral members graduate from EFM
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| EFM students celebrated the end of the year in May. If you are interested in being a part of EFM, contact Deacon Linda. |
Completing four years of study in scripture, church history, and theology takes dedication and focus. John Hornbeck and Leigh Dennert of our congregation and Delores Cameron, a member of St. Paul’s Lee’s Summit, have given their time and talents to this task. These three received graduation certificates for Education for Ministry (EFM) on Sunday, May 15.
EFM combines the traditional functions of fellowship group and Bible study with a method of theological reflection designed to tap into our metaphorical and mythical ways of thinking, to help us make conscious connections between our faith traditions and the world in which we live. The four-year program may be taken with commitment to only a year at a time and incorporates studies of The Old Testament; The New Testament; Church History; Theological and Moral Choices.
EFM is a program of theological education for lay people offered by extension from the School of Theology of the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee. EFM originated in the mid-1970s as an extension course, based on the seminary curriculum, for lay people who needed further theological training but did not feel called to ordained ministry. The basic belief of the program is that by our Baptismal Vows all Christians are called to be ministers in and through the church.
The program developers believed that lay people in the church needed more training and education than was generally available in order to carry out their ministries. What began as a small experimental course in has now become a world-wide network with over 9,000 graduates and 7,500 students enrolled.
Cathedral members graduate from EFM The program is led by mentors (lay or clergy) who are trained by the School of Theology to facilitate the seminar group. The current mentors of the Cathedral group are Gary Hicks and Deacon Linda. They were assisted this year by Deacon David Myers of St. Paul’s, Lee’s Summit.
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| Delores Cameron, John Hornbeck and Leigh Dennert received graduation certificates for EFM on Sunday, May 15. |
Meeting weekly for nine months of the year, over a four-year period, the student experiences readings in Scripture, Church History, and Contemporary Issues. In addition to the readings, the focus of the seminar session itself is learning and practicing various techniques of Theological Reflection whereby the student learns to experience the presence of God in his/her own life experiences, and to “own” the Scripture and Tradition in new ways by holding up the experiences of their lives against the backdrop of the Christian Tradition.
By working together on the lessons, theological reflection and regular prayer, the seminar group becomes a small Christian community which supports and encourages its members in their ministries. It becomes a safe and loving place to explore beliefs and to try out new ministries. There are no tests or papers to write.
Those currently enrolled in EFM include Curtis Hamilton, Sam Satterfield, June McDonald, Jim Fox, Rose Burke, Joyce Morrow, Kristin Niederberger, Phyllis Biddle, Virgil Burke, Doris Dillenberger, Ruth Evans, Jen Davis Funk, Deanna Hardenburger, Dianne Logan, John Turpin, and graduates Leigh Dennert, John Hornbeck, and Dee Cameron.
If you are interested in enrolling in EFM, please call Deacon Linda at the church office (816 474-8260). Cost per year is $340, with some scholarship help available. Classes will resume in late summer, beginning with a one-day retreat on August 27. Please sign up by July 15 since it takes about a month to get the textbooks.
– by The Rev. Linda Yeager, Deacon
-photos by The Rev. Linda Yeager
Q: How many Kansas City Episcopalians does it take to reduce the infant mortality rate in Haiti?
A: Coming soon
News from Guild of the Christ Child
Many thanks to the Michkas, both Angela and her wonderful husband Ron, for their talent, generosity, and commitment to the Guild’s ministry. They created and produced the Care Packages cookbook given away on Mother’s Day Sunday. Thanks to all the moms who shared ideas and recipes. We hope you enjoyed reading them as much as the Guild enjoyed sharing them. Our extra copies will be sold in the bookstore stop by and pick one up.
And while you are thinking of cooking this should be a busy summer for families with newborns at GHTC. We are expecting a bumper crop of new babies and are always looking for cooks. If you are interested call Angela Michka at 816-753-4742.
Three cheers for the Schnittker family for providing the “Monster” bball and discs for the Parish Picnic. We hope you and your children enjoyed Wonderscope and the lawn activities. Many thanks to all that volunteered ideas and time to the children’s activities.
Congratulations to Mason Morgan, Connell McKeown and their families during the celebration of their baptism. How blessed we are to share this momentous day with them.
Coffee hour on the May 15 was terrific, many thanks to new contributors to our Baptism feast. Heather Cleavinger is coordinating our calling tree for Baptism coffee hours, if you would like to be added to our list call her at 816-746-1983.
Time changes in store for Tallis Singers, Grace Choraliers
The academic year now ending has been an exciting time in the life of our parish. All the programs are flourishing, thanks to the inspiring leadership of Dean White and his staff. The Cathedral family is truly blessed.
In the areas of music, the Grace Choraliers have continued to be a vibrant source of inspiration for our worship. This year was a time of transition as the group prepared for future schedule changes. Currently, the choristers rehearse during the first part of the 10:15 a.m. service.
The clergy and we have been discussing changing the Choraliers’ rehearsal to a new time and day, in order to allow the singers to be a part of the full worship experience.
Accordingly, we are moving practice to Wednesday evening, a time when rehearsing will be unhurried and which will allow for more Time changes in store for Tallis Singers, Grace Choraliers substantial training in music, theology and spirituality. This way, all singers will worship together and grow in both spiritual and musical formation through attendance during services.
Likewise, the Tallis Singers, who rehearse on Saturday mornings, are often torn between important school activities and rehearsals. We have decided to move the Tallis Singers’ rehearsal to the same weeknight as the High School Youth Group program, Wednesday evening, thereby strengthening the activities that will help the young ladies and gentlemen develop their own sense of ministry in the church.
The Choraliers will be rehearsing on the same evening, so that all youth will have the opportunity to be together and learn from each other.
Any kind of change makes an impact on the lives of people involved in the programs. We are convinced, however, that any way we can help our young people be stronger Christians is well worth the change. We welcome your thoughts.
- by John Schaefer, Canon Musician, and Malinda McCasland, Grace Choraliers Director
Music Notes
from Canon Musician John Schaefer
Curdy Organ Scholar
It is now common knowledge that Jieun Kim Newland, our brilliant scholar, has received a full scholarship to go to Yale University. In the three years she has been the Curdy Organ Scholar, she has become a strong leader of worship and a much-loved individual. There is no doubt that all of the choirs will miss Jieun and Ben. We wish them all the success in the world as they spread the Gospel through Word and Music.
We have appointed a new Curdy Organ Scholar; a young lady also from Korea, Jungeun Ahn will be with us starting in August. We anticipate that she will bring her unique energy to our services and music activities.
2006 Choir Tour
John Fowler, the organist for the 5 p.m. service, has received all the music that the Trinity Choir will be singing on its 2006 tour. The tour is now fairly firmly organized and it would be a wonderful thing if there were a large number of members going along as a “support group.” Canon Schaefer has many of the details for those who might think for a moment that they would like to tour with the choir.
Music Written for the Choirs
Some of the music we will sing is music written for the Cathedral choirs. It is fascinating that the choirs of your Cathedral have inspired a number of fine composers to compose works for the choirs.
Among them are Peter Mathews, who was composer-in-residence from 1978-1982; Arlen Clarke, who also was a member of the choir and whose “Summer in Winter” was the inspiration for our Advent and Christmas compact disc, copies of which are still available; Jeffrey Carter, now at Ball State University; Michael McCabe of Omaha; David Ashley White, teacher of composition at the University of Houston; Timothy Corrao of Park University; Richard DeLong, now deceased, who wrote a single work for the Trinity Choir after he heard the choir sing in Westminster Abbey; John Ferguson of St. Olaf College in Minnesota; and Dennis Schmidt.
There are others, but these are the composers whose works we sing fairly regularly. There have been a few commissions; however, most of the music came to the Cathedral as “here is something I wrote for you.” In the near future, the Trinity Choir will record a compact disc for Mr. Clarke, who has requested that we be the choir to present his music to a wider public.
What a tribute to our principal choir and the other choirs who sing to the glory of God with love and gladness of heart.
Thank You!
A very special thanks to the individuals who devoted so much of their time to the planning of our adult formation programs this year: Gretchen Flora, John Hornbeck, Geoff Logan, Ruth MaGill, Ken McCarson, and Marian Philip.
Whether it was a Sunday morning Adult Forum, Religious Book Study class, Scripture Study, Advent Series book discussion, Lenten Academy or any other Christian formation class at the Cathedral you attended this past year, you can be sure they had their hand (and heart) in it!
A significant modification to our programming during this committee’s term is worth highlighting: The group challenged the idea of offering more than one class on Sunday mornings.
In the past, the Adult Forum served as our only class and offered a variety of topics. However, having recognized the need for other forms of learning and formation, they suggested classes that would provide in-depth study of religious writings, theologians and Scripture. Additionally, they identified fabulous presenters, within our own parish, for the Forum as well as these other classes.
We are grateful for the many members who have shared their gifts with us on Sunday mornings! Today, we enjoy these opportunities to learn and grow together in faith.
So, as these committee members say good-bye to their email “cyber meetings” and thoughts of planning months in advance, please let them know what wonderful works they have done in the ministry of adult formation at GHTC!
– by Valerie Johnson, Adult Education Coordinator
Getting back to work in the Episcopal Church
When Victor Sarrazin decided to leave the priesthood, he was not
sure where his life would lead him. Would he remain in the Church?
Would he get married, settling down with a wife, a family and a
secular job? Would he even stay in Los Angeles?
Victor’s journey comes full-circle on Saturday, June 4, with his reception as a priest in the Episcopal Church.
This may seem like telling his story backwards, but this month marks Victor’s return to the priesthood after spending a decade as an ordained priest in the Roman Catholic Church.
Victor has spent the last year or so preparing for his Episcopal ordination, including working with various committees, undergoing a background screening and spending six months on an independent study project to learn about ordained ministry in the Anglican Church.
Victor’s initial ordination was in 1990, following seminary study at St. Thomas Seminary in Denver and work in an organization called Vincentian Fathers and Brothers, a group that evangelizes among the poor. In fact, ministering with the poor has always been and will continue to be a priority for Victor.
He served as an associate pastor at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Parish in Montebello, California, in Los Angeles County. He served there from 1990-1995 and then worked in an evangelization and renewal center in Montebello called the De Paul Center.
After a few years there, Victor started to wonder if his call was still to minister as a priest in the Roman Catholic Church. He began to find frustration in several areas, including what he saw as a retreat from ecumenical commitments and an overly staid central authority. “It was no longer the church we grew up in,” he said. “You have to say, ‘Can we stay on board with it?’”
So he began a second discernment. Should he stay in the Roman priesthood? Should he leave the priesthood, get married and start a career? Would he even stay in the Roman Catholic Church at all? There were no easy answers, but signs pointed toward a change. He had become reacquainted with his future wife Rhonda, whom he had met through church activities while in college. He spent a year away from his community, working a secular job, and quickly decided that he still was being called to minister as a priest.
“Okay, God, I can’t stay on the sidelines any longer,” he said. A friend in California even told him, “I’ve always known you were a priest and that was who you are.” He came to the Episcopal Church because of our sacramental life, which was “similar to the life we had grown up with.” He moved to Kansas City in early 2003, and he and Rhonda were married in August of that year.
Victor is looking forward to getting back to work in his ordained ministry. “I’m excited,” he said. “I’ve made a transition in an effort to follow the Holy Spirit in my calling and my marriage. I’m excited to get the last piece in place.”
After his ordination, he will work with the diocese to find a place to work where he will be a good fit. He hopes to stay in Kansas City with his wife and three stepchildren, or at least in the Diocese of West Missouri. He has managed to stay busy around the Cathedral, preaching on several Sundays, and leading classes, forums and prayer groups. His background has enabled him to offer a perspective that you don’t always get from cradle Episcopalians, and his leadership has been very welcome here.
Victor’s ordination will be on Saturday, June 4, at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral. Another priest, Charles R. Uhlik, will be received; and two deacons, Ronald Keel and Carol Sanford, will also be ordained. Everyone is invited to attend. A reception will follow the ordination; the congregation is asked to bring finger foods.
– by Chris Morrison
Summer Music at the Cathedrals
August 7 • GHTC • John Schaefer and Friends in Recital
August 14 • GHTC • The Summer Singers of Kansas City
August 21 • CIC • Kevin Kissinger, organist, in Recital
August 28 • CIC • Gregory Sandomirsky & Nathan Brandwein in Recital
All programs begin at 3:00 p.m. • At-Door Admission $10
Come enjoy beautiful music in these two sacred spaces during the Sundays of August!
Book Discussion Group
Come ready to discuss a book you are reading!
June 21 • 7:00 p.m.
Common Room
For further information, call 816.741.0992.
Reel People
CHICAGO
June 22 • 6:30 p.m.
Common Room
For further information, call 816.741.0992.
The sextons have been spring cleaning around campus, including
hard-to-reach windows.
-photo by Julie Toma
Weekly Activities
SUNDAY
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist
9:15 a.m. Christian Formation
10:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist --
Children’s Chapel
5:00 p.m. Order for Evening and
Holy Eucharist
MONDAY
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
TUESDAY
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
1:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study
WEDNESDAY
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
7:00 p.m. Youth Group
THURSDAY
7:00 a.m. Men’s Bible Study
9:30 a.m. Cathedral Outreach Program
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
FRIDAY
9:30 a.m. Moms’ Bible Study
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
Activities for the Month of June
Please verify times and dates of the events listed with the appropriate person(s) or by contacting the Cathedral Office.
1 • WEDNESDAY
6:30 p.m. Couples’ Bible Study
5 • SUNDAY
11:45 a.m. Music Committee
6:15 p.m. Centering Prayer Small Group
7 • TUESDAY
6:00 p.m. Table Top Games Group
6:30 p.m. Needlework/Quilting Group
9 • THURSDAY
6:30 p.m. Thursday Evening Bible Study
12 • SUNDAY • BLOOD PRESSURE SUNDAY
11:45 a.m. Social Action Committee
13 • MONDAY
5:00 p.m. Stewardship Committee
14 • TUESDAY
7:00 p.m. Cancer Support Group
7:00 p.m. The Angelus Small Group
15 • WEDNESDAY
7:30 a.m. Finance Committee
6:30 p.m. Couples’ Bible Study
19 • SUNDAY
12:00 p.m. Integrity Group
6:15 p.m. Centering Prayer Group
20 • MONDAY
4:30 p.m. Building and Grounds Committee
21 • TUESDAY
6:00 p.m. Table Top Games Group
7:00 p.m. Book Discussion Group
22 • WEDNESDAY
6:30 p.m. Reel People
23 • THURSDAY
5:00 p.m. Vestry
6:30 p.m. Thursday Evening Bible Study
24 • FRIDAY
6:00 p.m. Round the World Wine Tasting
26 • SUNDAY
12:00 p.m. People Caring for Family and Friends Small Group
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