The
Angelus
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral • Kansas City, Missouri •
Vol. 75 No. 3 • March 2006
Contents
Grasping our gritty nature
From the McMullens
Music Committee welcomes new member
Friends of MN
Adult Formation
Happenings in Children’s Formation
Trinity Teens help make crosses for St. Luke’s
Thank You!
Necessary Dreams
The Cathedral Consort debut concert in March
Lenten Academy
Lenten promises
Lenten Banner
Easter Candy Wanted
2006 Annual Meeting emphasizes growing ministries
Long-time 8 a.m. usher retires
First annual Bishop’s Ball a success
Flower memorials and thanksgivings
News from Guild
of the Christ Child
Music Notes
Lenten Quiet Day
The Cathedral’s Financial Status
With Sympathy
Preis to present benefit
performance
Weekly Activities
Activities for the Month of March
Grasping our gritty nature
It’s driving me crazy that I don’t know all your names yet. Actually, it’s driving me crazy and making me fearful that I’m going to run into one of you at Price Chopper or on the Plaza and not be able to call you by name. This is not a new fear, by the way. I remember it hitting me like a ton of bricks in my first church. Emmanuel was not as big as the Cathedral, but it was big enough that learning names took some time. And I hadn’t had enough of that time when the rector announced he was going on sabbatical.
But something happened on Ash Wednesday of that year. It was a difficult day to say the least. The rector’s sabbatical was underway and I was meeting myself coming and going on most days.
I recall that I was in the sacristy taking off my vestments after the first of three Ash Wednesday liturgies when the secretary came in to tell me that a parishioner was in the emergency room with an apparent heart attack. I got there in time in anoint him before he died. When I returned to the church in time to conduct the next Ash Wednesday liturgy, I found that something within me had changed.
It was no longer a matter of simply dipping my thumb into a bowl of ashes and marking a series of foreheads with the same phrase, “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.” It was different. I was different. I, who lived in holy terror that I would fail to recognize someone I ought to know, suddenly recognized everyone in the church in a whole new way: as children of God knit together by our common humanity and by the death that awaits us all.
We are all made of the same stuff. It’s true symbolically and it may be true literally. Some physicists now believe that all organic life on earth shares lineage with the stuff of which the stars themselves are made. Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return. Terrestrial and celestial.
For the ancient people of Israel, to mark your face with ashes was to signal to others that you were in mourning or penitence, or both. It was a means of recognition for the benefit of those around you. People would see the ashes, and even if they didn’t know who you were, they would know something about you.
The Christian Church adapted this practice for the first day of the season of Lent somewhere around the ninth century. Ashes were imposed upon the foreheads of the faithful as a reminder — as a means of recognizing — our finite, mortal nature. Eleven centuries later, we’re still doing this on Ash Wednesday. For this day, with prayers that it may permeate the whole of our lives, we symbolically proclaim, “I’m human. This is what I’m made of. This is what we’re all made of.” It is a profoundly countercultural thing to do. Instead of celebrating our achievements in the car we drive or the house we live in or the clothes we wear, we intentionally take the opposite tack on this day. We say, “But for the grace of God I would not have life at all.”
We are at our finest, as members of the Christian community, when we live with this recognition 365 days a year. When we can grasp our own flawed, finite, gritty nature, we find that we can extend kinship to other flawed, finite, gritty, folk.
That sense of connection can lead us to a place of compassion because we get it. We can accept forgiveness from God because we’ve somehow managed to forgive ourselves for failing to be other than human.
May this season of Lent, ushered in with gritty crosses of ash, help us to recognize our common origin and our shared dependence upon one another and especially upon God.
– by the Rev. Canon Susan Sommer
From the McMullens
From Andrew, Yvette, Hannah, Rachel, Abigail and Sophia McMullen, to the faithful community of Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral, grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. It is hard to believe that we left Kansas City almost three years ago for Andrew to pursue a Master of Divinity degree at The Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas.
It has been a time of both affirmation and challenge as we left the life we had established among you and in Kansas City to join the seminary community. It is difficult to describe this transition, but we have been blessed along the way with so much kind and thoughtful support from our family and friends. While Andrew has been immersed in his education and formation, Yvette has handled the seemingly endless list of tasks and responsibilities in raising four, young girls. However, we were not surprised to see that the girls handled the move and transition more smoothly than their parents did.
Hannah is now in the fifth grade. She has made many friends, has an active social calendar that requires constant attention, and her current interests range from flute lessons to Girls Scouts.
Rachel is in the third grade. She likewise made friends easily and is involved in gymnastics, violin lessons and girl scouts among other things.
Abby is now 4 and attends a Montessori preschool. As always, she is the center of attention (whether others want her to be or not) and is more or less the opposite of her introvert father.
Sophia is now 1 and starting to walk; her current interests include getting into things she should not and challenging the patience of our dog, Reagan.
While our lives are certainly not immune to the difficulties and turmoil that are a reality for any family in this world, we feel truly blessed to be together on this journey.
It is impossible for us to pursue our current path towards ordained ministry alone. Our lives with you -— many years of worshiping with you at the Cathedral, engaging in Christian education, participating in the community kitchen and numerous other instances of being community with you—have become part of who and what we are as Christians. We carry them with us and will do so in the future.
We are very grateful for this gift which Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral has given us, a foundation of faith and what it means to serve Christ in the world. We give thanks not only for what has been given to us by you, but also that you continue to feed and nourish one another and the community through the active life of the Cathedral.
Lastly, many of you may not know that the Cathedral has graciously provided financial support by paying for Andrew’s books during seminary, a cost that is not insignificant. Your generous giving to the Cathedral has made this possible, and we are very grateful for your gift that has had a meaningful impact on all of us.
At this time, it is unclear what the future will bring for us, something that appears to be a reality on this type of journey. God willing, Andrew will graduate in May and be ordained in the Cathedral the following month.
We do not know whether Andrew will be returning to the Diocese of West Missouri or whether we will pursue a call in a different part of God’s vineyard. Throughout this entire process, we have received overwhelming support and care from Bishop Howe; the Diocese is truly blessed by his ministry and leadership. In any event, regardless where we are called, we are confident that things will work out for the best.
We hope this letter finds each of you, and your families, well. We think of you often and wish for you the best. Many thanks for all the gifts you have given us.
If you wish to contact us, please feel free to do so. Our address is 402A E. 32nd Street, Austin, Texas, 78705.
We pray that God’s blessing will be upon each of you today and forever.
Music Committee welcomes new member
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photo donated |
The Music Committee welcomes Theresa Yeager to its ministry. Theresa is a familiar face in our parish, where she is a Lay Reader, involved in the Friends of Maison de Naissance, and the work of the Social Action Committee. Theresa has been a member of the Cathedral family for three years.
We are thrilled with the new perspective and enthusiasm she brings to our work, and look forward to her advice and council as the Music Program moves forward with new impetus and resources.
– by David Barker,
Music Committee Chair
Friends of MN
The next meeting of Friends of MN (Maison de Naissance) will be Monday, March 13, at 6:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room (lower level, Founders’ Hall).
Questions? Contact Marian Philip at MPHILIP1976@juno.com or 816-421-5808.
Adult Formation
Sundays at 9:15 a.m.
An Updated Report: Episcopal Relief Work Following Katrina, in
the Common Room (March 5)
Jim Fox, Episcopal Relief Worker and parishioner, St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church, Lee’s Summit
Come gather for a snapshot of some relief efforts in Long Beach, Mississippi. Numerous photos taken over a five-day period in late January offer a peek into the daily workings of Camp Coast Care five months following hurricane Katrina’s devastation. Jim Fox is one of three Kansas City area Episcopalians who took food, clothing, money and their labor to Camp Coast Care, which is still housed at Coastal Episcopal School in Long Beach. The food items, clothing, and money were donated by Episcopalians in the Diocese of West Missouri. Come hear how our support and efforts have helped.
“Camp Coast Care” is one of the main relief and supply operations of Lutheran Episcopal Disaster Response, under the direction of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi and Lutheran Episcopal Services in Mississippi. They offer hospitality and community to those who wish to come and work on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Judas, Images of the Lost Disciple, in the Common Room (March 12,
19, 26, April 2)
The Rev. Susan Sommer
There has never been just one Judas, but instead a rich and startling variety of depictions of Judas, both positive and negative, each with its own emphasis, its own meaning, and ultimately, its own validity and importance for our understanding of Judas, Jesus, God, good and evil, human nature, and ourselves.
Join us for four Sundays in Lent, as we explore what Scripture, tradition, literature, and music says (and doesn’t say!) about the man who betrayed Jesus. We will use as our starting point Kim Paffenroth’s text, Judas, Images of the Lost Disciple which class participants are welcome (but not required) to purchase from the Cathedral bookstore. Each class will feature both lecture and discussion.
Lectionary Learners, in the Youth Room
Each week this group gathers for lectionary study of the day’s readings and fellowship while exploring what the Bible has to say about living a Christian life. This type of study has been described as “building the body through sharing; opening the mind by questioning; and embracing the spirit for Sunday worship.” A deeper understanding of the Bible text brings us all into a closer relationship with Christ and each other.
Happenings in Children’s Formation
Children’s Formation is undergoing a pre-spring cleaning. Unearthing treasures long hidden in the resource room, we hope to have more books available in the library soon and are working on a new project to utilize many items that will be used outside of formal formation classes.
We hosted question and answer sessions with Canon Yeager in January and Canon Sommer in February. Ms. Ahn has begun assisting us with our hymns of the month. Children in Godly Play have been learning about Holy Baptism and parables. Children in All Things New have been studying baptism and the Lord’s Prayer.
Many thanks to Susan Lenz, who purchased material and rods, made and hung new curtains in the library and two of our classrooms that required assistance to block out piercing sun rays. Our eyes appreciate Susan and her generous gift.
– by DeAnn McTavish, Children’s Christian Formation Director
Trinity Teens help make crosses for St. Luke’s
Trinity Teens Youth Group members have been working diligently to complete the construction and finishing of 500 wooden crosses which will be placed in the patient rooms of St. Luke’s Hospital. Under the guidance of Junior Warden Bud McDowell, who did the preliminary woodworking and planning for this service project, the teens are gluing, nailing and oiling the crosses. They are also saying prayers for the patients and staff of St. Luke’s. Thanks to Bud and Candy McDowell and to our Trinity Teens for this gift to our community. There will be a formal presentation of the crosses to St. Luke’s later this spring.
– by the Rev. Carol Sanford
photo by the Rev. Carol Sanford
Thank You!
A big “thank you” to everyone who attended, participated and assisted to make Fat Weekend a success!
Necessary Dreams
A cooperative effort between The Dream Works and GHTC
Many of us dream of having the “nicer things in life,” even though in reality we already have those things. Others find themselves dreaming of necessities and small things that can make life just a little more bearable. We call these dreams, “Necessary Dreams.”
You can help make these dreams true!
The following are needs of the most critical kind. All other possibilities have been exhausted. If you can provide goods, services, or finances to fulfill these dreams, please contact Sam Satterfield at 913-281-8695 or provide your donation to The Dream Works in the Sunday plate.
It is not necessary to donate money -- any donated resource, or combination thereof, will help our clients.
You may “adopt” a specific dream by utilizing the (code number) below each name. For more information, please visit our Website at: www.TheDreamWorksinc.com.
Brenodette’s Dream (#1017)
Brenodette is a 47-year old woman diagnosed with paraplegia and lupus. Her disabilities require her to utilize a wheelchair fulltime. She receives Medicaid funded services and her income is only from Social Security. Brenodette’s wheelchair is her mode of transportation when she goes to the doctor, the store, or church. The batteries in her wheelchair need replacing. She needs two gel cell batteries specific to her wheelchair. Her limited income prevents her from purchasing them and Medicaid will not purchase the batteries because they did not purchase the wheelchair. Approximate dollar Values = $210.
Mary’s Dream (#1016)
Mary is a young woman with a physical disability that requires her to utilize a wheelchair fulltime. She receives Medicaid funded services and her income is only from Social Security. Mary’s wheelchair is her mode of transportation when she leaves her house. The batteries in her wheelchair need replacing. Mary needs two gel cell batteries specific to her wheelchair. Her limited income prevents her from purchasing them and Medicaid will not purchase the batteries because they did not purchase the wheelchair. Approximate dollar Values = $105.
Brandi’s Dream (#1013)
Brandi is a 28-year old woman who is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. She lives at home with her mother and sisters. In 1995, Brandi was provided a wheelchair so she could attend school. She has since graduated and the wheelchair is now ten years old and in need of repair. Further, the cushion that she sits upon is old and if a new one isn’t obtained, Brandi’s skin will deteriorate. The family has no disposable income and Medicaid will not fund the repairs because Brandi is not in school or working. Brandi has graduated and is unable to work due to her disability. Crisis funding will not purchase the needed repairs. The following items are needed to maintain the chair and protect Brandi’s health – Back Tires & Inserts = $124; Pressure Relief Cushion = $470; Armpads = $43; Heel Loops = $10.
Paul’s Dream (#1012)
Paul is a 12-year old boy diagnosed with a developmental disability. Paul lives with his mother. Paul receives services from The Dream Works. The family’s income is limited to disability income and earnings from the mother when she is not caring for Paul. The family is in desperate need of a new or used stove/oven. Emergency funds from the developmental disability organization will not pay for appliances. None of the other agencies that have been contacted have a stove or money to donate. Approximate dollar value = $150-300.
The Cathedral Consort debut concert in March
A new instrumental chamber group has been formed at the Cathedral – The Cathedral Consort. Their debut performance will be Sunday, March 5 at 2 p.m. in the Nave.
The concert includes a variety of styles and mediums: Trio Sonata
in G Major by Jean-Baptiste Loeillet; two of the “Etudes for Spring”
for solo bassoon by Melvin Solomon; John Knowles Paine’s Concert
Variations for the “Star Spangled Banner, op. 4” for organ;
Variations on “Amazing Grace” for English horn and organ by Calvin
Hampton; Sonata for Flue and Piano by Gaetano Donizetti and Terzetto
for oboe, bassoon and piano by Cassimer Theophile Lalliet.
Members of The Cathedral Consort are: John Fowler, organist titulaire at Asbury United Methodist Church; Meribeth Risebig, principal oboist of the St. Joseph Symphony; Claudia Risebig, principal bassoonist of the St. Joseph Symphony; and June McDonald, professor of music emeritus at Northwest Missouri State University and a member of St. Joseph Symphony’s flute section. All of the musicians are members of the Cathedral and will be on the Trinity Choir tour to the United Kingdom this summer.
There is no admission fee for the concert; donations for the Choir UK Tour Fund will be welcome.
photo by Andrea Schooling
The Cathedral Consort (R to L): Meribeth Risebig, Claudia Risebig, June McDonald and John Fowler.
Lenten Academy
Wednesday Evenings in Lent • March 8, 15, 22 and 29
5:45 Evening Prayer • 6:15 Dinner • 7:00 Classes
Your Spirituality Type and Ways to Pray
The Rev. Linda Yeager, Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral
Examine your spirituality type and preferred prayer styles—there’s a reason you may not always be comfortable standing when everyone else is kneeling! This class will provide a framework for people to name and understand their spiritual experience-in much the same way Myers-Briggs typology provides a framework for understanding personality type. We will explore spiritual types, and try some exercises that will allow each to assess his/her own type. Further, we will gain an understanding of how people learn about worship, pray and celebrate God.
Where in the World are God’s Missioners?
Oh, the places they’ve been and the places they’ve seen; the people they have met and the relationships they have built! Travel parts of the world without leaving Kansas City as these missioners take us places where the languages and cultures differ from our own, but we all share common needs. Each week will feature a different part of the world and missioner’s experience. No passports required for these travels:
March 8 • El Salvador • Fr. Jerry Waris, Pastor, St. Patrick’s Parish of Kansas City, Mo.
March 15 • Haiti • The Rev. Linda Yeager, Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral, Kansas City, Mo.
March 22 • Mexico • Rev. Mr. Ross Boudoin, Parish Administrator and mission team members, St. James, Kansas City, Mo.
March 29 • Guatemala • Sr. Theresa Torres, O.S.B. and student missioners Benedictine College, Atchison, Kan.
Bad Girls of the Bible
Jennifer Weinzerl, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and The
Rev. Susan Sommer, Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral
Read and study about less-than-perfect women of the Bible. Discuss fictionalized, contemporary stories based on the lives of biblical characters including: The Bleeding Woman, Bethsheba, Herodias and Tamar the Widow. The book’s commentary provokes rich discussion of life’s lessons and personal reflection. The overall message of each chapter is the same: “Good Girls and Bad Girls both need a Savior. The goodness of your present life can’t open the doors of heaven for you. The badness of your past life can’t keep you out either.” This class based upon readings from Really Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Curtis Higgs and The Holy Bible. Please bring these books to class. Copies available for purchase from the GHTC bookstore.
Weavings
Kathleen Derrick
Create a woven project that, years ago, was an absolute necessity. In Biblical times baskets held loaves, fishes, offerings and harvested fruits of the land. Today, they have become more of a decorative accent in our homes, yet this art allows us to experience the feeling of being self-sufficient when creating a unique gift or seeking therapeutic stress-relief. Despite the easy availability of baskets in stores today, we are drawn to the art and ancient skill of weaving. In order to complete this project in class, please plan to be present for all four sessions. Space is limited so please register early.
A Lenten Potpourri
This collection features a different presenter and topic for those who seek a variety of classes:
March 8 • Meditation Workshop • Lama Chuck Stanford, Rime
Buddhist Center
Meditation has been proven to lower blood pressure, relieve
stress and help you cope with anxiety. It has also been shown to be
very effective with chronic pain, insomnia and panic disorder. The
wonderful thing about meditation is that it can be used anywhere,
even on the way to work and has no dangerous side effects. You will
learn this simple technique that can change your life. This class is
based upon the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn of the Stress Reduction Clinic
at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center.
March 15 • A Universal Psalter • Dr. Ron Miriani, Professor of
History, Park University
Experience prayer, poetry and religious teaching from five major
sources: the psalms of the Hebrew bible, the sayings of Jesus from
the gospel of Matthew, the Bhagavad Gita- itself part of a much
larger Hindu religious text, the Koran or Qur’an of Islam, and
representing modern America, the poetry of Robert Francis. We will
look at parallels (using Biblical texts) between the three faiths,
and especially between the Christian and Islamic traditions.
March 22 • Bridges of Understanding • Suzanne Greenwood, St.
Therese Catholic School, Parkville, MO
Bridges of Understanding is a joint project between St. Therese
Catholic School in Parkville, Missouri and Hyman Brand Hebrew
Academy in Overland Park, Kansas. Now in its sixth year, students
from the two schools come together to share their faith and
traditions, develop friendships, dispel the myths about each others’
beliefs and engage in service projects, all steps toward creating a
more peaceful world.
March 29 • Spiritual Needs of Our Sisters and Brothers •
Father
Pat Murphy, Animator for Hispanic Ministry, Archdiocese of KC in KS
Recognize the unique gifts, needs, and presence that Hispanic
immigrants bring to our community. With an increase in Hispanic
families, the need for a welcoming community and a sense of
belonging continues to grow. Many surrounding areas are experiencing
a fluid migration flux meaning that changes in numbers will
constantly require a network of effective and pluralistic
ministries. How can we help meet these spiritual needs?
Childcare
The nursery will be open for children ages 4 and under.
Kindergarten through 5th grade children will gather in Haden Hall for supervised activities.
Registration for Lenten Academy
Thank you for assisting us with planning by registering by Sunday, March 5.
1. Register
online
2. Complete a registration form and mail it to
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral
Attention: Valerie Johnson
PO Box 412048
Kansas City MO 64141
3. Sign up at morning coffee hours.
4. Call the Cathedral office at 816-474-8260.
Lenten promises
Here it is Lent already, and my neighbor’s Christmas lights still twinkle nightly. Nevertheless, the time has come once more to decide how I can improve my spiritual life through discipline and determination. What shall my Lenten promise be this year?
Following are my top ten choices for Lenten discipline:
10. Omit desserts. (This one I reject immediately because we have way too many family birthdays in March to make this in any sense acceptable.)
9. Read the Bible through from beginning to end. (I have enough trouble getting ready for the one chapter we usually get covered weekly in Women’s Bible Study!)
8. Lose ten pounds. (See objection to number 10.)
7. Stop smoking. (I would, but I don’t smoke.)
6. Tell the people I love how much I care for them. (I sent Valentines. Does that count?)
5. Add a church service per week. (Aren’t three services on Sunday enough already?)
4. Introduce a new prayer into my spiritual life. (How about that new liturgy we’re using?! That should suffice, don’t you think?)
3. Give up chocolate. (See objection to number 10).
2. Spend more time with my family. (I would try this one, but they all seem to be too busy to find the time to spend with me.)
And now, the number one choice for my Lenten Discipline:
1. Spend an extra twenty minutes every morning in Centering Prayer and Intercessory Prayer. (This one I will attempt. With God’s help, it will add meaning to my Lenten experience and my spiritual life.) How about you?
– by The Rev. Canon Linda Yeager
Lenten Banner
The Lenten banner tries to capture some of the drama associated
with our Lord’s Passion. The background fabric was especially chosen
to resemble sack cloth because this type of clothing was worn to
show repentance or sorrow. The crown of thorns is penetrated by
three nails to graphically portray the painful ordeal that Christ
would encounter. The three drops of red blood illustrate our Lord’s
sacrifice for our salvation. Often times this banner is carried in
the procession during the forty days of Lent to help establish the
mood of the season.
When we were making this banner the sack cloth was our biggest challenge. The inexpensive fabric choices such as burlap, coarse wool, or raw silk would not withstand the ravages of time or damage from moths.
Gill Miller, who was an interior designer and the Cathedral’s Junior Warden in 1966, researched all his fabric samples to find a sack cloth looking fabric that was 90 percent rayon and 10 percent cotton. The perfect fabric was found but it was eight times more expensive then any we used for the banner project at the Cathedral—forty years later this fabric combination for all the banners has withstood some of the ravages of time.
This Lenten offering was a memorial given Mrs. Harold Howerton.
– by Richard Fanolio
Cathedral Bookstore
Lenten selections have arrived!
Shop this week!
Sundays • after both morning services
Wednesdays • 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
First Sunday of each month • after 5:00 p.m. service
Easter Candy Wanted
The Guild of the Christ Child would appreciate donations of
Easter candy or plastic eggs for the annual Easter Egg Hunt, which
will follow the 10:15 a.m. service on Easter Sunday. All children
are welcome to participate in the egg hunt. A basket is available in
the Tower for your generous donations.
2006 Annual Meeting emphasizes growing ministries
Continued stability and growing ministries highlighted the 2006 Annual Meeting of the Cathedral, with pledging and income both reaching all-time highs.
During the meeting, which is held annually to select new vestry members and present the Cathedral’s budget and financial status to parishioners, several speakers expressed their excitement that our improving finances allow us to invest more money and energy into various ministries, and that our priorities must be focused appropriately.
A new vestry class was approved by a unanimous voice vote. No additional candidates received nominations, so the proposed slate of candidates was elected intact. The incoming vestry class is Cecelia Carter, Joe Finnie, John Jennings, Kathy Jennings, Whitney Kerr Jr., Bob Richmond and Robin Rusconi.
The outgoing vestry class, not eligible for re-election, was thanked for their service. They are Cheryl McDonald, Jeannette Nichols and Sarah Rowland.
Treasurer Doyle White presented a financial report for 2005. He was pleased to announce that the Cathedral finished 2005 in the black. The 2005 budget was up by eleven percent over 2004 to allow for new clergy, adequate funding for growing ministries and other expenses. White noted that pledges in 2005 hit a record high, with 96 percent of pledges actually being received.
In addition, the total amount of income from plate and pledge contributions rose for the first time since 2001. Unfortunately, trust income was still down from 2002, because it is calculated using data from the most recent three years. With the stock market growing again, this trend is expected to improve.
Senior Warden Michael Thomas presented the 2006 Cathedral budget. The budget highlights three main objectives: adequately funding growing ministry categories (education, youth, outreach and music), continuing to build endowments through planned giving (wills, trusts, etc.) and encouraging pledging from the half of parishioners who do not yet pledge. The 2006 budget projects a nearly 17 percent increase in expenditures, most of which is accounted for by planned increases in ministry investment.
Several ministries can hope to receive more funding in 2006. Some of them are our outreach to newcomers and potential parishioners, especially in the Quality Hill area; education; and music.
One exciting change in the new budget is in the Social Action area. In previous years, the Social Action Committee raised its own money for outreach, but Social Action will now also receive funds from the general operating budget, which doubles total funding for outreach and provides a more stable funding source. Communications will also receive a sizable funding increase, as the Cathedral increases efforts to publicize its ministries and activities in the community.
Dean Terry White addressed the meeting and spoke of a “Cathedral for the Heart of the City.” He related several areas of current and future work that emphasizes our growth and urban setting. One highlight of the past year was the hiring of DeAnn McTavish as full-time coordinator for children’s formation, and he noted that one goal for 2006 would be the hiring of a youth minister.
Another project for 2006 is the planning for an outdoor playground. Dean White listed several other highlights of 2005, including the arrival of new clergy members Sue Sommer and Carol Sanford and their families; new Curdy Organ Scholar Jung Eun Ahn; the nomination of Sue Sommer and Linda Yeager to be Canons of the Cathedral; and our participation in a birthing center in Haiti, Maison de Naissance. Finally, Dean White challenged the Cathedral to recommit itself to serving as a Cathedral for all of Kansas City.
– by Chris Morrison
Long-time 8 a.m. usher retires
Those of us who go to the 8 a.m. Sunday service noticed a change a few weeks ago. Bill Dickinson, the long-time usher, retired recently. You will still find him at the service, but now he can sit closer to the front.
Bill came to the Cathedral after World War II, in October 1947. He said there used to be an offering plate on a table and when you went to communion, you dropped your offering in that plate. He approached Dean Sprouse and asked if he would like to have a regular ushering system which Bill set up and has been involved in ever since. That was about 1952. Bill said there used to be about 19 people at that service and they just filled the old communion rail. He said it has become more popular since.
Bill was born at home, in Kansas
City, on Wabash. His grandparents had a small farm at 31st and
Prospect, which covered a couple
of blocks. Bill and his wife Carroll
lived at 2647 Victor until 1951
when they moved to 215 West 62nd
Terrace, in Brookside. They lived
there until about five years ago when
they moved to Kingswood Manor.
They have four sons. Two of them live in Kansas City, one lives in Denver, and one lives in Texas. He said he has about a dozen grandchildren and six or eight great-grandchildren.
Bill modestly said it has all been worthwhile.
It has certainly been much more than worthwhile to the Cathedral and to the people who have known him over the years. Bill is one of those long-time Cathedral members who provide stability to the parish. We are grateful for his service all of those years and for his continued presence at 8 a.m. each Sunday.
– by Mary Byrne
First annual Bishop’s Ball a success
Founders’ Hall was decked in Episcopal purple for the First Annual Bishop’s Ball on Friday, February 2, 2006. Trinity Teens Kitty Rice, Ginny Rice, Luke Flora, Ruth Fenger and Alexandra Connors worked along with other members of the Youth Action Council and West Missouri Youth Coordinator Kim Snodgrass in planning and presenting this wonderful Diocesan event.
The Bishop’s Ball was attended by about 135 persons, including other Trinity Teens and their guests, along with many Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral parents and other supporters of our parish youth.
The evening featured a buffet dinner, a “Bishop Howe trivia game,” enthusiastic dancing, and several awards, including the Big Heart Award, received by Alexandra Connors for her dedication and commitment to youth ministry. Proceeds from the Ball were designated for “Hope for Haiti” by vote of the youth present.
Congratulations to Kitty, Gina, Luke, Ruth and Alexandra for their work in putting on this wonderful event, and to our other senior high teens, parents and supporters for coming out to help make this first Bishop’s Ball an evening of which we can all be proud.
– by the Rev. Carol Sanford
Flower memorials and thanksgivings
February 5 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving for in thanksgiving for their granddaughter, Sarah Richmond McMullen, by Larry and Marilyn McMullen. At the baptismal font, flowers are in loving memory of her son, Eric, by Miriam Marrs. The flowers at the Chapel altar in thanksgiving for the birthday of Eleanor Gordon by Alan and Phyllis Ryder. Memorial candles are given in loving memory of her mother, Harriett Grant, by Elaine Grant.
February 12 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Bill Bucker by Barbara and Bob Bucker; and in loving memory of her father, Chester Wright, by Suzanne. At the chapel altar, flowers are given in thanksgiving for the birthday of Bryan Ryder, by Alan and Phyllis Ryder. The wreath on the inside of the tower door is given in thanksgiving for Carrie and Graham, and for the Baptism of their children Albert Lawrence Wallace and Mason Rhys Garner by Sharyl Wallace.
February 19 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving for their grandson, Matthew James McMullen, by Larry and Marilyn McMullen; and in loving memory of her father, William H. Shackelford, Jr. by Mr. and Mrs. Charles N. Seidlitz, Jr. At the chapel altar, flowers are given in thanksgiving for the wedding anniversary of Ken and Judy Ryder by Alan and Phyllis Ryder and in memory of Helen Frances Rusconi, by Robin Rusconi and Jay McKeown.
February 26 • The flowers at the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Edward and Margaret Gillespie, by their daughter, Joyce Gillespie. At the Chapel altar, flowers are given in thanksgiving for her granddaughter, Paige Terrell, by Mrs. Herbert Sloan.
News from Guild of the Christ Child
The Sunday before St. Valentines was the perfect setting for a Baptism. Congratulations to Grandmother Sharyl Wallace on the Baptism of her two grandsons Albert and Mason. And thanks to all the hands and hearts that made to morning so special for all of us.
The end of January Mom’s Bible Study began a new book, The Gift of Being Yourself, by David G. Benner. This the second book by Mr. Benner we have studied he is one of our favorite writers. Attendance is flexible in this group, we are all Mom’s and understand being child challenged. Please drop in and join us when you can, Friday mornings 9:30 to 11:00 in the Youth Room, childcare provided.
We are now collecting candy for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. Baskets are provided in the Tower each Sunday for donations. We will be working with Mom’s Bible Study to stuff 1000 eggs this year for the Easter Bunnies to hide. All donations are appreciated, thank you for helping us with this fun ministry.
– by Jeanette Coletti
Music Notes
from Canon Musician John Schaefer
It seems to be a tradition that, in my report for the Annual Meeting, I neglect to mention several musicians whose ministry is extremely valuable. I am referring to those who provide musical leadership for the 5 p.m. service. Patti Howell is the principal cantor and she is ably assisted by Sally Livengood. John Fowler is the organist for the service; he plays with considerable spiritual energy. I am grateful to the three for the offerings they make week after week.
Friday, March 3 • 7:30 p.m.
Concert, The Choir of Northwest Missouri State
University
Sunday, March 5 • 2:00 p.m.
Debut Concert, The Cathedral Consort
Monday, March 6 • 7:00 p.m.
The West Central Conference Choir Festival
Sunday, March 19 • 4:00 p.m.
Choral Evensong
Tuesday, March 28 • 5:00 p.m.
Recital, Kip Faulk, trumpeter
Tuesday, March 28 • 7:30 p.m.
Recital, Donny Lemley, trumpeter
Lenten Quiet Day
Saturday, March 18
9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Bread is the element that in the Eucharist we refer to as the Body of Christ. But its composition also has something to teach us about how we, the gathered community, come to BE the Body of Christ. In this way, the process of making bread is one way of understanding who we are as people of God.
Join us for our Lenten Quiet Day, The Body of Christ, the Bread of Heaven, on Saturday, March 18 from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. We’ll make bread, reflect on the symbols that emerge, celebrate the Eucharist together, and taste and see that the Lord is GOOD!
No prior bread-baking experience required. Bring your journal. Lunch is provided. To help us plan, please pre-register by contacting the Cathedral office at 816-474-8260 or by e-mailing Canon Sommer at ssommer@ghtc-kc.org. The cost is $5. The day will be led by The Rev. Canon Sue Sommer, The Rev. Carol Sanford, and The Rev. Canon Linda Yeager. Everyone is invited to attend.
The Cathedral’s Financial Status
| JANUARY YTD | BUDGETED YTD | ACTUAL YTD |
| INCOME | $ 124,187 | $ 120,473 |
| EXPENSES | $ 134,455 | $ 127,255 |
| VARIANCE | $ (10,268) | $ 6,782 |
With Sympathy
We ask that you remember the following families in your prayers:
• Eunice Henderson, mother of
Kathleen Chaney
• Virginia Flora, mother of Mike Flora
• Harold McDonald, father of Mike
McDonald
Preis to present benefit performance
Richard Preis, baritone, will present a benefit performance of his one man show, “The Gospel of Love According to Broadway” Sunday evening March 12 at 7 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 67th and Roe in Prairie Village.
This performance will be a benefit to assist Betsy Robbins, one of Kansas City’s leading actresses, with medical expenses in her on going recovery from cancer.
Betsy is one of Kansas City’s leading actresses and has appeared at Shakespeare in the Park, the Unicorn, Kansas City Repertory Theater, and the New Actors Theater. A free will offering will be received.
This program includes songs from Broadway musicals and parallel passages and stories from the Bible. Richard has given over 140 performances of this and his Gospel According to Broadway in eighteen states and Canada.
– by Jan Frizzle
A playground to be located on the north end of Haden Hall was proposed at the annual meeting.
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
5:45 p.m. The Tallis Singers
6:00 p.m. Grace Choraliers
7:00 p.m. Trinity Teens
THURSDAY
7:00 a.m. Men’s Bible Study
9:30 a.m. Cathedral Outreach Program
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
5:45 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
12:05 p.m. Holy Eucharist
Activities for the Month of March
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
4 • SATURDAY
5:30 p.m. Scottish Games Dinner
5 • SUNDAY
11:45 a.m. Music Committee
2:00 pm. The Cathedral Consort Concert
7 • TUESDAY
6:30 p.m. Needlework Arts Group
7:00 p.m. The Angelus Small Group
9 • THURSDAY
6:30 p.m. Thursday Evening Bible Study
12 • SUNDAY• Blood Pressure Sunday
12:00 p.m. Social Action Committee
3:30 p.m. Centering Prayer Group
13 • MONDAY
4:30 p.m. Buildings and Grounds Committee
5:00 p.m. Stewardship Committee
6:00 p.m. Robbery Victims Support Group
6:30 p.m. Friends of MN Meeting
14 • TUESDAY
7:30 a.m. Finance Committee
6:15 p.m. Cancer Support Group
18 • SATURDAY
8:00 a.m. Lenten Quiet Day
19 • SUNDAY
12:00 p.m. Integrity Group
4:00 p.m. Choral Evensong
21 • TUESDAY
6:30 p.m. Guild of the Christ Child
23 • THURSDAY
5:00 p.m. Vestry
6:30 p.m. Thursday Evening Bible Study
25 • SATURDAY
8:00 a.m. Acolyte Festival
26 • SUNDAY
12:00 p.m. People Caring for Friends and Family Small Group
3:30 p.m. Centering Prayer Group
27 • MONDAY
6:30 p.m. Robbery Victims Support Group
Lenten Academy
March 8, 15, 22 and 29
5:45 Evening Prayer
6:15 Dinner
7:00 Classes
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. Susan Sommer
Canon Pastor and Subdean
The Rev. Carol Sanford
Curate
The Rev. Canon 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
The Angelus
A laypersons’ newspaper published in the interest of Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral.
THE ANGELUS SMALL GROUP CONTRIBUTORS:
Emily Akins
Tom Atkins
Mary Byrne
Rachel Chambers
Jan Frizzle
John Hornbeck
Geoff Logan
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