"Around the Diocese and Beyond" continues on page 5

A r o u n d t h e D i o c e s e a n d B e y o n d

T h e E p i s c o p a l D i o c e s e o f S o u t h w e s t e r n V i r g i n i a

Connectionslinking diocesan leaders

DATES AND UPDATES

Looking Ahead in November01 Fall Clergy Day

03 Executive Board

04 Abingdon Convocation

10 Treasurers' & Stewardship Day

15 Fresh Start

16--18 Fall Youth Event

20 Deans Meeting

22 Thanksgiving

22--23 Evans House closed

Bishop's Sunday Schedule04 Emmanuel, Bristol

11 Ascension, Amherst

18 St. Paul’s, Salem

25 Thanksgiving

Checks will be written in the

diocesan office on the tenth and the

twentieth of each month.

Members of the Legacy Society of the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia are invited to dinner with Bishop Neff Powell on January 24, 2013, at the Hotel Roanoke. Invitations will be

mailed later, but mark your calendars

now! For information about the

Legacy Society, contact

blindsay@dioswva.org.

"While I know myself as a creation of God, I am also obligated to realize and remember that everyone else and everything else are also God's creation."

--Maya Angelou

Vol. 12, issue 11November 2012

Treasurers' DayStewardship DayThe Mega Event!

November 109:30 AM--2:00 PM

Evans House

Get useful information for Treasurers and for Stewardship committee members

about all things having to do with giving AND receiving gifts.

Presenters:David Lowen, CPA

Carter Brothers, Attorney Join us for coffee and danish at 9:30 AM prior to our first presentation.

Session One: The income tax side of charitable giving during our lifetimes.

Session Two: The estate side of charitable giving after death. $10 per participant will offset the cost of a catered lunch.

Please send checks and name/parish/role for each participant to Treasurers / Stewardship Day

Evans House1002 1st Street SWRoanoke, VA 24016

Questions? Contact Alan Boyce at aboyce@dioswva.org or 1-800-DIO-SWVA.

The deadline to register is November 7.

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The Rt. Rev. Neff PowellBishopnpowell@dioswva.org extension 116

Lynn RobertsonBishop's SecretaryData Resources ManagerLrobertson@dioswva.org extension 117M--F; 9--5

Alan BoyceCanon for Administrationaboyce@dioswva.org extension 115M-F; 8-4

The Rev. Gene AndersonDiocesan Transition Minister (DTM)ganderson@dioswva.org extension 122Wednesday; 9-1Gene may also be reached at 540-776-9096.

Aimee BostwickDiocesan Youth Coordinatorabostwick@dioswva.org extension 121M--F most mornings at Evans House, most afternoons from home. Aimee works many night and weekend hours with youth wherever they are located.

Jim Robertson Accounts Payable and Procurement Coordinating Volunteerjrobertson@dioswva.org extension 120Jim volunteers his time for this service, and consequently he sets his own hours.

Bill LindsayProgram Coordinator for Planned Giving, Disaster Preparedness, and Grant Applicationsblindsay@dioswva.org extension 110Bill has retired, and his hours are his own. Fortunately, he still shares some of them with us.

The Rev. John HeckDirector of Phoebe Needles Center, Inc.johnhheck@gmail.com 800-848-1677

Anita BoydDirector of Grace Housegrchse@yahoo.com 276-395-6588 The Rev. Deacon Kathy ChaseTitle IV Intake OfficerIntakeofficer@dioswva.org 434-946-7374 This service is performed outside Evans House.

The Rev. Dr. Bob CopenhaverChaplain to Retired Clergy, Spouses, and Survivors; Retired Clergy Insurance Contactaypiper@aol.com 540-556-8307Bob serves in this role for love and a small stipend.

The Rev. Becky CritesEcumenical and Inter-Religious Officerbecky.crites@gmail.com 540-774-2593

Maile ArmstrongDiocesan Safety Manager"Safeguarding God's Children" Coordinatormailearmstrong@verizon.net (540) 354-6016

Nick MogaEpiscopal Relief and Development Coordinatornickmoga@aol.com

Dena LeeUnited Thank Offering Coordinatordglee7880@gmail.com

Kate GarciaParish Services Coordinatorkgarcia@dioswva.org extension 111

� The Bishop Marmion Resource Center (BMRC) is open M--F, from 9 AM to 5 PM at Evans House. Materials may be previewed and checked out online at BMRC-online.org for pick-up or mailing. Contact Kate Garcia for assistance.

� Connections is a monthly diocesan publication connecting those who serve in similar or related leadership positions with the Evans House staff and with each other. Those who receive it are asked to share it with others in their congregations. Please send submissions for publication to Kate Garcia by the 15th of the preceding month.

DIRECTORY OF THE OFFICES OF THE DIOCESE OF SOUTHWESTERN VIRGINIA

1-800-346-7982 (DIO-SWVA) ~ 540-342-6797FAX 540-343-9114 ~ www.dioswva.org

Visit us at 1000-1002 FIRST STREET in Roanoke. Send mail to PO BOX 2279, ROANOKE, VA 24009

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Elections, Stewardships, and Thanksgivings"There is a great American myth; it is the myth of the self-made person."

--The Rt. Rev. Neff Powell Fifth Bishop

Dear Friends in Christ,

Allow me to paraphrase a story from the eighth chapter of the Book of Deuteronomy. The Children of Israel are out in the desert getting ready to enter the Promised Land when God speaks to them. God says, I am about to give you the land I first promised to your ancestors. There will be fine houses, gold and silver, and vineyards. It is a rich land. Now, don’t forget who took you out of slavery in Egypt. Don’t go telling the neighbors, look what I did all by myself. [Literally, “Do not say to yourself, ‘my power and the might of my own hand have gotten me this wealth.’ ” (Deut. 8:17)]

There is a great American myth; it is the myth of the self-made person. I am writing this message in the midst of the election season. I heard it said of one politician that he was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Another commentator said that all politicians say they were born in a log cabin they built themselves.

In fact there is no such thing as a totally self-made person. Every one of us has had someone at some time who reached out and gave us a hand up. Parents who loved us and nurtured us and saw to it that we had a good education. A special teacher or mentor. Even the drive and intelligence we have within us are gifts from God.

God is the original and ultimate source of all that we are and all that we have. We can, though, strive to be good stewards of all that God has given us for our care.

We are in the midst of the fall season and the month in which we celebrate Thanksgiving. We will gather in churches and sing Now thank we all our God and other traditional Thanksgiving hymns. We will gather about tables and offer special prayers of thanksgiving to God for all that God has done for us in the past year. That’s the point, to remember to give thanks to God who is the ultimate source of all that we have and all that we are.

Grace and Peace,

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Treasurers' and Stewardship Day"We need to be as familiar as possible with these tools that will help us help others have the opportunity to share their gifts with their parish."

--Alan Boyce Canon for Administration

these tools that will help us help others have the opportunity to share their gifts with their parish.

It is not too late to register. There is a $10.00 registration fee that includes lunch. Checks can be mailed to the diocesan office (1002 1st St. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016) or brought on the day of the workshop.

Please contact me to let me know you are coming.

You cannot afford to miss this opportunity…..

Please check out our offering this year for parish treasurers and stewardship committee members. As your diocesan staff, we are often asked to bring resources and knowledge to the parishes about many subjects. Very often, the subject is money. Specifically, the subject is about how the parish might receive more money. Short of making a printing press available to your parish, we will be bringing you a toolbox full of resources on:

Saturday, November 10, 2012, at Evans Diocesan House beginning at 9:30 AM.

David Lowen, CPA and popular facilitator of previous Treasurers’ Day workshops, will provide knowledge and resources related to “The income tax side of charitable giving during our lifetimes.” Carter Brothers, Attorney, and member of St. John’s, Roanoke, specializing in estate law, will provide knowledge and resources related to “The estate side of charitable giving after death.”

David and Carter have worked together in the past with clients on these topics. They know a lot about subjects that will be of help to all of us. We need to be as familiar as possible with

Find Connections on the web--

early and in color!

www.dioswva.org/news/connections.html

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Mark your calendar!Wondering About Future

Convocation Meeting Dates?January Convocation meetings

will take place on January 13, 2013, with times and places to be chosen

at Fall Convocation meetings.

Lynchburg ConvocationTrinity-Boonsboro, Lynchburg

Roanoke ConvocationSt. Paul's, Salem

New River, Augusta, Abingdon

TBA

January 20, 2013, will serve as a snow date, if needed.

Please note: • Meetings are planned to be approximately two hours long.

• You may map these locations atwww.dioswva.org

by choosing "Find Parish" from the navigation tabs at the top of the page.

Annual Council takes placeJanuary 25, 26, 27, 2013, at the Hotel Roanoke and Conference

Center.

A r o u n d t h e D i o c e s e a n d B e y o n d " N e t s f o r L i f e U p d a t e " c o n t i n u e d f r o m p a g e 1

one-stop holiday shopping spot where you will find something for everyone on your list. Choose from hundreds of handmade items, from floral arrangements, holiday wreaths and Christmas decorations to stationery items, jewelry and art work to a plethora of of sewn items including: hats, handbags, aprons, doll clothes, shawls, mittens, quilts and much, much more. The Cookie Walk will boast more than 3,000 homemade holiday treats. All proceeds will support the work of St. Mark's ECW. St. Mark's is located at 670 Patrick Henry Highway in Clifford, Virginia.

� The second of two Celtic Evensong services will be on Sunday, November 11, at St. Paul's, Lynchburg. The service will be held at 5:00 p.m. For more information, email Ann Coulter, organist and choirmaster, raec11@yahoo.com, or call the parish office at 434-845-7301.

� There will be a Safeguarding God’s Children training opportunity at St. John’s, Roanoke, on Sunday, November 11, from 1 PM to 4 PM. Please register with Ms. Erin Harden at eharden@stjohnsroanoke.org or 540-343-9341.

� Each day at Evans House begins with Morning Prayer, including prayers for those associated with our parishes who are serving in our armed forces. It’s time to update our military prayer list. Please send Lynn (Lrobertson@dioswva.org) your current military prayer list.

“Art in a Sacred Place” � � �Saturday, Nov 3; 10 AM--4 PM � �

Sunday, Nov. 4; Noon--5 PM

St. Thomas' Episcopal Church, located between the towns of Big Island and Bedford on 122, is hosting an art show and sale by local artists and artisans. Participants in the art show are some of the most well-known artists and craftspersons in the Bedford area. On display, or offered for sale, will be paintings in a variety of media, needlepoint, stitching, wood engraving, and metal work.

Save the date to enjoy a beautiful drive through the hills of Bedford County to this sacred space, a space that invites you into the stillness of God.

Consider making this day an even more special experience by dining at the nearby Millstone Tea Room, a quaint roadside restaurant which offers “uncommon, hospitable service with a local farm-to-table vision.” Hours Saturday, 11:30 AM – 2 PM for lunch, reopening at 5 PM for dinner. Open Sunday for brunch only, 11:30 AM – 2 PM.

"Cookies and Wreaths and Jewelry, Oh My!"

St. Mark's First Annual

Holiday Bazaar and

Cookie Walk

Please help support the good work of St. Mark's, Clifford's Episcopal Church Women (ECW) by attending the First Annual Holiday Bazaar and Cookie Walk on Saturday, December 1, from 9 AM to 2 PM. The event is a veritable

� The Prayer Calendar for October 2012--January 2013 is now available online. Go to www.dioswva.org/ministries/prayer_calendar.html. The text of the Calendar that was sent to the printer is available as a Word document near the top of the page. If you scroll down below the "Dear Friends" letter, you will find the prayers beginning with those for the current week, with additions, deletions, and corrections made in underlined bold italics.

� 2013 rates for health and dental insurance through Church Pension Group's Medical Trust are posted at www.dioswva.org. From the top navigational tabs, choose "Resources" and then "Insurance."

"Around the Diocese" continued on page 6)

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Alternative Gifts FairChrist Episcopal Church1101 Franklin Road, SWRoanoke, Virginia 24016

Saturday, November 10 10:00 AM-2:00 PM

and Sunday, November 11

9:00-10:15 AM & 11:45 AM-1:00 PM

The Alternative Gifts Fair is an exhibition of Fair Trade and handmade crafted items from local vendors and crafters from around the world. Proceeds benefit both local and global organizations in their efforts to meet Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Some of the funds will go to Micro-loans for Small Businesses in an effort to meet MDG Goal No. 1--to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger.

Vendors include: • Afton Honey Farm--Honey

• Cambria McMillan-Zapf--Original and recycled items, purses, earrings

• Church Mice Calendars--2013 annual calendar

• Kroger Cards--Sunday Only

• In The Garden--Garden and home creations

• Palestinian Goods--Authentic Fair Trade olive oil

• Pendragon Handcrafts--Jewelry

• Soap of Hope--Handmade soap and assorted bath accessories

• Star City Coffee--Fair trade coffee and more

• Tinker Shop – Tinsmith crafts

• Villages of Africa – Fair trade African art and handcrafts and MORE!

You can make a loving donation for that person who HAS Everything! You can choose from organizationssuch as: • Heifer International

• Doctors Without Borders

• Feeding America

• Episcopal Relief and Development’s Gifts for Life programs which include Community Gardens, Clean Water, Nets for Life, and more.

You’ll receive gift cards to give to your loved ones explaining your donation in their name.

Wondering what to do with your

children while you shop? The new Kids' Corner is a great site at the fair! For a modest fee of $5.00, your child can make a craft, wrap it, and take it home ready for presentation to that special someone!

And on Sunday, November 11 only, join us for Second Sunday Breakfast from 8:45-9:15 AM for $2.00 per person. You can feast on casserole and coffee to satiate and fuel your body for a day full of faith, fellowship and shopping for thoughtful and one-of-a-kind items and stocking stuffers!

Be sure to visit this opportunity to get unique, handmade, fair trade items that reap benefits for so many.

"Around the Diocese" continued from page 5)

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� Open Enrollment for active clergy and lay employees will take place online through Wednesday, November 21. Information explaining the process was sent by the Church Pension Group’s Medical Trust to each clergy or lay employee already enrolled. Any member who did not received this information should contact Kate Garcia (kgarcia@dioswva.org to report the error.

Even if no changes are planned, members are asked to log in and verify that the personal information on file is correct.

Parish offices and clergy are asked to share this information with eligible employees (all paid employees who work 20 hours a week or more), whether they are currently insured or not.

Any eligible employee who would like to come aboard as a new member should contact Kate Garcia (kgarcia@dioswva.org) during Open Enrollment.

� Applications Being Accepted for Episcopal Church Constable Fund GrantsThere is still time for congregations, dioceses, organizations, institutions and others to apply for the Episcopal Church Constable Fund Grants for the 2012-2013 grant cycle.

Anne Watkins, Executive Council member from the Diocese of Connecticut and current chair of the Constable Fund Grant Review Committee, noted that the deadline for applications is January 2013, “and that’s really right around the corner.”

The Constable Fund provides grants to fund mission initiatives that were not provided for within the budget

of the Episcopal Church General Convention/Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society (DFMS).

Specific guidelines, suggestions, application form and timetable are available here: http://generalconvention.org/ec

Recently, the Episcopal Church Constable Fund Grant Review Committee announced a new cycle and process for Constable Fund Grants. A Constable Grant Management task force was constituted by the Executive Council Joint Standing Committee on Governance and Mission (EC-GAM) which made subsequent recommendations resulting in the establishment of the Executive Council Constable Fund Grant Review Committee. That committee was charged with promoting the fund and widening its access to more of the Church.

As stated in the guidelines: “All applications for the 2013 cycle will come from either (1) a programmatic office of the DFMS, (2) one of the General Convention CCABs, (committee commission agency or board) or (3) one of the Provinces of the Episcopal Church. A maximum of one proposal per programmatic office of the DFMS, one proposal per CCAB, and one proposal per Province, will be considered. Dioceses or individuals within a diocese should submit their proposals through their Provincial structure with final submission coming through the recommen-dation of the Provincial Synod, Provincial Officers or Executive Committee, or other corollary structure within the Province.”

The Constable Grants were named for Miss Mary Louise Constable,

who was a visionary philanthropist. Watkins pointed out, “Hers is an example of faithful witness and generosity in response to an obviously mature and deep understanding of herself as both a disciple of Jesus Christ and as a steward of the blessings bestowed upon her by God.”

In 1935, in the midst of economic catastrophe known as the Great Depression, Miss Constable made a monetary gift to the Episcopal Church to establish the Constable Fund. Her desire and intent to add periodically to the fund during her lifetime was realized and culminated with a very generous final gift at the time of her death in 1951.

Watkins further explained, “Stipulations for use of the fund were also visionary and generous, recognizing in and trusting those who came after her to comply with her wishes while allowing them flexibility in order to carry the mission of God through God’s Church forward into new eras.”

The language of Miss Constable’s will states that the fund exists “in perpetuity … to apply the net income for the purposes of the Society, preferably for the work in religious education not provided for within the Society’s budget.”

“It is the desire of the Executive Council Constable Fund Review Committee that Miss Constable’s example of stewardship, generosity, flexibility, and creativity be values that continue to be honored,” Watkins concluded.

See information on UTO and EAM grants on page 14.

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Sunday, October 21, 4:00 PM

Joy Smith-Briggs Organist

Joy Smith-Briggs is organist at Central Presbyterian Church in Bristol, Virginia.She has served as a church organist in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee, including Christ Episcopal Church in Big Stone Gap. In addition she is the sub-dean of the Northeast TN/SWVA Chapter of the American Guild of Organists and holds an AGO Colleague Certificate. For many years, Joy and her husband, Dr. Guy Briggs, a retired faculty member at UVa-Wise, lived in the Wise/Norton area where she was Executive Director of Family Crisis Support Services.

Sunday, November 11 at 4:00 PM

Dr. James SpirupOrganist

James Spirup is organist at St. Christo-pher’s Episcopal Church in Kingsport, Tennessee. He holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Michigan where he was a student of the distinguished American concert organist Marilyn Mason. Dr. Spirup’s lengthy career as a church musician has carried him to various posts throughout the United States.� In addition, he has taught at Viterbo University, William Tyndale College, and Emory and Henry College. He is a member of the American Guild of Organists. Dr. Spirup and his wife, Suzanne, make their home in Abingdon where she teaches choral music for the Washington County Public Schools.�

Sunday, December 9 at 4:00 PM

Dr. Jennifer Marshall Organist

Jennifer Zoellner Marshall, of Newberry, South Carolina, is organist at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church in Johnson City, Tennessee. She holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Organ Performance from the University of South Carolina where she was a student of Dr. William H. Bates. A member of the American Guild of Organists and Pi Kappa Lambda, she has served as organist, pianist, and music director for several churches in the midlands of South Carolina and organist for various churches in east Tennessee.� She and her husband, Dr. Zachary Marshall, are members of the music faculty at East Tennessee State University.

All Saints Episcopal Church, Norton

Fall 2012 Organ Concert Series

Everyone is invited!All Saints Episcopal Church, Norton, presents its 2012 Organ Concert Series.

The church is located at 1025 Virginia Avenue, across from the Norton City Park.

There is no admission charge for the concerts.

"Around the Diocese" continued from page 7)

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News from Grace House on the MountainMercy . . . Compassion . . . Responsiveness

How do I begin to sum up the year 2012 for Grace House? Trusting in the Lord, as this scripture says, is how we have made it through. We have been asked multiple times, “How can you stay so calm, how are you holding up, don’t you ever worry?” Through and by the Grace of God is how we stay calm; through it all, HE has never left us, giving us strength, health and peace of mind as we have faced each obstacle.

Our work-camps and service projects began at the end of February with college groups arriving to work during their spring breaks. However, the third week into work-camps, Grace House was hit by the tragic fire that destroyed both bunkhouses and the Grace House office. This devastation was overwhelming, as we had a new group in from Akron University in Ohio. As we stood there that night and watched the flames take down a place so special to our hearts and to so many hearts that had passed through those doors, we began to think "How could this happen?" Then our hearts began to consider the things we needed to be thankful for.

Despite all the commotion and flames, the students who were sleeping there were all safe; no one was hurt and God had to have a plan.

So we began to notify the diocesan office and Grace House board members. During times like these, you are grateful to have such an outstanding group of folks on your

board. They have all been so supportive and helpful throughout this process. From the Chairman, The Rev. Craig Wylie, (now retired), through each of the remaining board members (Marilyn Carroll; Patty Baumgartner; Jane Scherlis; Jerryanne Bier; Linda Head; our new Chairman, The Rev. Robert Beauchamp; and new board member, The Rev. Vince Carroll), I will never forget the encouraging support each has given during this time. I take this opportunity now to say thank you and may God bless you abundantly.

Also, to Bishop Powell, Alan Boyce, and Jim Robertson, I appreciate you all beyond words. I don’t think I will ever forget Bishop Powell’s words to me that morning, as I was told he wanted to talk to me. My thoughts were, “Oh no, he’s going to tell me I am fired!” Those were not his words at all, but just the opposite. He said, “Grace House will rise from these ashes and be bigger and better.” Little did we know at the time how true these words would be.

The fire did not stop the operations of Grace House, as we have had an out-pouring of folks in the community, the diocese, and local businesses who have stepped forward and helped in so many ways, from cleanup, sleeping

quarters for the campers, allowing us the opportunity to continue the work-camps. An astonishing number have given financial support. There is not enough room on these pages to name each of you, but your support will not go unrewarded as we pray that God bless each of you!

Through all these efforts, the work-camps and service projects have continued and a host of families have been helped. The re-building of Grace House has continued as well. On September 20, 2012, construction began on the re-building of Grace House bunkhouses. It is such a joy to come in each evening and see how much it has progressed.

From this top photo to the new construction in the following photo, each step of the way God has been good!

We are looking forward to the 2013 season. The calendar is already filling up, so if you would like to be a part of the Grace House experience, you need to get your group penciled in on the calendar. The groups make a tremendous impact on so many lives here in Southwest Virginia.

If you would like further information,

please feel free to contact us at Grace

House on the Mountain. Our address is

5100 Pewter Drive, St. Paul, VA 24283.

Call us at (276)395-6588 or email at

grchse21@yahoo.com or

aboydgrchse@yahoo.com

Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace—in peace because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for in

the Lord God you have an everlasting rock.

Isaiah 26:3-4

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Turn! Turn! Turn!"To every thing there is a season,and a time for every purpose, under heaven. . . ."

--Kate Garcia Parish Services Coordinator

Find it at the BMRC!

Find the BMRC catalogue at www.bmrc-online.org

Author Lauren Winner is showing up on my radar a lot lately.

The New York Times described an early book, Girl Meets God: On the Path to a Spritual Life as "a passionate and thoroughly engaging account of a continuing spiritual journey within two profoundly different faiths," from Orthodox Judaism to Christianity. In discussing her Bible reading, Winner notes that “It is no surprise, I guess, that I read Ruth differently than I used to. All the stories look different, through Christian glasses.”

In Mudhouse Sabbath: Seven Ways of Christian Formation Inspired by the Jewishness of Jesus with "characteristic wit, intellectual sharpness, and passion for authenticity," Winner shares eleven spiritual lessons learned from Judaism. She reflects on these religious practices, continuing to see that her faith as a Christian is shaped and informed by them. "It is not just that Jesus was a Jew," Winner says, "Jesus still is a Jew. Engaging Jewish practice and tradition is one important way of overcoming the gaps that we sometimes feel exist between Jesus and ourselves."

There is also a DVD, designed to be used as a course in Christian formation all by itself or as a companion to the book. The DVD

offers another way to explore spiritual practices of hospitality, mindful eating, prayer and fasting, and mourning, and incorporating them into our lives. Divided into seven sections, with discussion topics filmed on location, this 65-minute DVD resource will help individuals or groups explore how faith is rooted in ancient Jewish spiritual traditions and ritual, challenging us to practice our faith in ways that are biblical, Christ-like, and practical.

This year, Winner's most recent book was published. Titled Still: Notes on a Mid-Faith Crisis, this book looks at her experience of what she calls the “middle” of the spiritual life. Winner explores why—in the midst of the anxiety, loneliness, and boredom of her deepest questioning about where (or if) God is—the Christian story still explains who she is better than any other story she’s ever known.

Winner's books are written in a sparse style, with short, journal-like chapters. Although each is indubitably about her journey, they have something to say to all of us. As she notes in Still, even "the saint is just a small character in a story that’s always fundamentally about God."

Each of these resources is available through the BMRC. You can check availability online at www.bmrc-online.org.

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"That They All May Be One . . ."Should ecumenical and interfaith institutions of the 20th century continue?

--The Rev. Becky CritesEcumenical and Inter-Religious Officer

Like many of our 20th century institutions, the National Council of Churches (NCC) is striving to find its relevance today, as are most faith-based institutions. As people and finances dwindle, coupled with societal changes of belonging, everyone is forming task forces to consider where God is calling them today. Too often these various task forces focus on the questions of re-visioning without first thoughtfully examining whether or not they even should.

You may be surprised to know the National Council of Churches is still around. And even if we aren’t attuned to it, it has been engaged in some very good work this century. And, as many of us are also finding, its structures are outdated and unsustainable.

An NCC task force recently released a report with a proposal and plan for implementation. I will say here that I like the proposal. While challenging, the vision, goals and mission are clearly stated and given a specific process for living into this vision.

The primary question addressed was: How do we transition from a structure that is rigid, silo-ed, and outmoded to one that is agile, integrated, and flexible, all while building a culture based on collaboration, transparency,

dignity, and trust?

That is the question for many Christians today, as we know in our own diocese and with The Episcopal Church. This is the question

everywhere, and in every discipline, around the world as so much that we have known, and built around, is changing rapidly.

But I struggle with the basic assumption from the proposal:

“The vision that drives this proposal is a shared commitment to a transformed and transforming NCC through which the churches and other partners seek visible unity in Christ and work for justice and peace. We have built on the affirmation first stated in the final report of Task Force 2 that this dual foundation of our existence as NCC is still very relevant and needed today. Yet amidst a rapidly changing ecclesial, ecumenical, and inter-religious world we find ourselves ill-equipped to live into

this vision. The institutional structures and presuppositions of our past too often have become an obstacle to our future. ”

Yet I wonder, is the NCC relevant and needed today? Ecumenical work today has been hampered by its successes. Christians do live differently together today and are more fully engaged in ministry together than the separateness of the 19th century. As the report notes, “Today the ecumenical vision is alive and well at the local, regional, and national levels, in no small part because of the historic vision and witness of NCC. ”

Institutional structures always become an obstacle. So, in all our ministries I wonder, how do we build the Church that God calls us to build without simply rearranging old furniture? And how do we create new structures, because we will always do so, without a process for them to be agile and flexible for what the Spirit will next blow our way?

“Turn around and believe that the good news that we are loved is better than we ever dared hope, and that to believe in that good news, to live out of it and toward it, to be in love with that good news, is of all glad things in this world the gladdest thing of all. Amen, and come Lord Jesus.”

� Frederick Buechner

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DIOSWVA Youth and

Youth MinistriesNews, Updates, and Plans

--Aimee BostwickDiocesan Youth Coordinator

Fall Youth EventNovember 16--18:

Prayer: Journey to the Center of God

Can you hear the special effects as you read the theme for FYE . . . hear the echo and the reverb? Prayer. Such a simple theme and yet so pertinent and necessary for us in our busy lives. Over the course of the weekend we will learn about what prayer is, how we pray, when we pray, where we pray . . . . I think you get the idea.

Youth in grades 8--12 are welcome to join us. The cost is $80. The event is held each year at Phoebe Needles Camp and Conference Center in Callaway, and the results are life-changing! We hope to see you there.

Parish VisitsAimee is wanting to visit as many parishes in the diocese to have a discussion about youth ministry. Whether you have too many youth to handle or no youth at all, that doesn’t matter…the conversation does! If you are interested in joining in on this conversation, please contact Aimee at the diocesan office 540-342-6797 or abostwick@dioswva.org.

Diocesan Book StudyPlease join the diocesan youth workers in reading and discussing together Missional Youth Ministry: Moving from Gathering Teenagers to Scattering Disciples, by Brian Kirk and Jacob Thorne. From clergy, to vestry members, to those working with youth at all levels in our parishes, please consider reading this book and sharing your insights with us. You can join our Facebook event page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/events373982886021448/

Annual Council 2012 Announcement: DIOSWVA Community Café@CouncilSaturday night at Council the youth will be hosting a diocesan coffeehouse at the Hotel Roanoke. This is not just for the youth, but for our diocesan friends of all ages! We want you to share your gifts with us--from singing, to storytelling, to playing an instrument, to telling jokes . . please consider signing up and becoming a part of this memorable evening. We would love to display your artwork also. Check Connections and the diocesan website in the months ahead for more details.

2012--2013 Dates for Youth Events

November 16--18 Fall Youth Event Phoebe Needles

January 25--27 Youth@Council

St. John’s Roanoke

February 15--17Happening #6Location TBD

March 15--17 YMT Retreat

Phoebe Needles

May 3--5

Spring Youth EventPhoebe Needles

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National Episcopal Health Ministries

Faith Community (Parish) Nursing

The Rev. Judy SpruhanDiocesan NEHM Liaison

As the time of snow and ice arrives, falls can become a dangerous reality in our lives. Here is some information on falls and how to prevent them.

How often do falls occur? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of three adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls are the leading cause of death from injury in this age group. Per the CDC, in 2010, 2.3 million nonfatal fall injuries among older adults were treated in emergency departments. These statistics do not even include those falls which were never reported to or treated by a medical professional! Among those older adults who fell, 20-30% suffered moderate to severe injuries such as lacerations, fractures, or head trauma. Some of those with less serious injuries developed a fear of falling which caused them to limit their activities and reduce physical mobility, and actually increased their risk of falling again.

What puts a person at greater risk for falling?

1. Medical conditions—particularly heart disease or failure, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, low blood pressure, COPD, diabetes, arthritis, vision problems, or mental confusion

2. MedicationsYou are at higher risk if you take 4 or more medications (including over-the-counter medications), if you take medicine for high blood pressure, or if you drink alcohol. Some medications have side effects which may make you lose your balance, become drowsy, blur your vision, or make you feel weak or dizzy.

3. Strength and balanceSeniors who are less active are more likely to fall, as they lack the strength and balance to resist falls.

What can you do to prevent falls?

1. See your doctor.Report any falls or “near misses” and any concerns such as dizziness, pain, or gait problems when you walk, and be sure that your doctor has a complete list of all of your medications, including over-the-counter supplements, pain pills, etc.

2. Keep moving.With your doctor’s okay, non-strenuous exercises such as water aerobics, tai chi, or walking can help reduce the risk of falling by improving muscle strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility.

3. Wear sensible shoes.Leave the high heels for the young—be sure your shoes are comfortable, fit well, and have nonskid soles. Shoes which tie are better than slip-ons. If you have trouble tying shoelaces, try shoes with elastic or Velcro fastening.

4. Remove home hazards.Be sure there are no boxes, clutter, or other obstacles on stairways or high traffic areas in your home. Secure loose rugs with two sided carpet tape. Immediately clean up spilled liquid or food. Use a nonslip mat in your shower or bathtub.

5. Light up your living space.Use night lights in your bedroom and bathroom, and turn on lights before going up and down stairs. Keep flashlights handy in case of a power failure.

6. Use adaptive devices.There is no shame in using a cane! It’s better than breaking a hip. Be sure to hold hand rails on stairs, and if needed, install hand rails and raised toilet seats in your bathroom. Here are some websites if you would like more information on falls and fall prevention:

www.MayoClinic.com/health/fall-prevention

www.learnnottofall.com

www.nia.nih.gov/Go4Life

www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationSafety/Falls

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United Thank Offering Applications To Be Available in January The United Thank Offering Board announced a change in the timeline for grant applications for 2013. Grant applications will be accepted only online from January 1, through February 28, 2013.

Known worldwide as UTO, the United Thank Offering grants are awarded for projects that address human needs and help alleviate poverty, both domestically and internationally within Anglican provinces, dioceses, and companion dioceses.

"The UTO board wanted to share the change in the timing, as we have begun to receive inquiries," noted Barbi Tinder, UTO Board Grant Committee Convener. "The new timeline has been streamlined for better efficiency and review of applications."

Interested applicants may review the grant criteria and changes online beginning November 1 at http://www.episcopalchurch.org/uto

Grant applications will be reviewed in March for compliance followed by review by UTO Board members. The UTO Board

Granting Session and Board Meeting will be held in May; grant awards and declinations will be announced in June.

Important information for applying for the grants:

--one application may be submitted by each diocese of the Episcopal Church, with diocesan bishop approval;

--one application may be submitted by a U.S. diocese of the Episcopal Church on behalf of an overseas Companion Diocese (the Companion relationship may be formal or informal), with approval by both diocesan bishops;

--one application may be submitted by invited provinces of the Anglican Communion, with approval by the Archbishop or Primate or Provincial Secretary and, if applicable, the diocesan bishop

The United Thank Offering awarded funds are the Ingatherings/funds/contributions received through the Blue Box offerings; offerings of change made by Episcopalians throughout the church. UTO's tag line is "Our Change Changes Lives." Grants that focus on changing lives and changes communities receive priority in granting decisions.

For further information: Barbi Tinder, UTO Board Grant Committee Convener, utoprov1@gmail.com; Sarita Redd, UTO President, jana.redd@att.net; or Michelle Jobson, UTO Grant Associate, mjobson@episcopalchurch.org, 1-800-334-7626, extension 6022.

Episcopal Appalachian Ministries (EAM) Small Grants Deadline Extended The Episcopal Appalachian Ministries Small Grants Initative deadline has been extended for the fall grants in 2012. The new deadline for 2012 is November 15.

The EAM Small Grants program is intended to help ministries of Appalachian Dioceses with one-time start-up costs for either new ministries or new programs. Grants usually range in size from $500 to $2,000 and are made to diocesan, parish, or community-based organizations that are within the member dioceses of Episcopal Appalachian Ministries.

Organizations or individuals applying for grants must have a clear connection and/or relationship to the Episcopal Church. These organizations must serve communities in the Appalachian region or urban Appalachian communities outside the region.

Successful applications will usually involve helping Appalachians address regional issues such as poverty, literacy, health care, unemployment, education, cultural affirmation, or the environment through direct service.

Applications must be submitted through the local diocesam office and be approved and endorsed by the bishop of the diocese.

Read more about eligibility and requirements at visit-eam.org/index.php/grants/.

Download an application from this link: http://www.visit-eam.org/index.php/grants/ OR email episcopalappministries@gmail.com to request an application.

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SPONSOR-A-DAY

To support diocesan ministries, consider sponsoring a day out of the year that has special meaning to you. Each sponsorship is a $200 donation to diocesan ministry. You can give the donation in honor or in memory of a birthday, anniversary, death, or other occasion. (This donation is in addition to your annual voluntary pledged giving to your parish.)

Parishes and small groups are also encouraged to consider sponsoring a day.

Date I/we wish to sponsor: ______/______/______Amount enclosed: _______________

Please mark your check "Sponsor-A-Day: month/day/year"

Person making donation:______________________________________________________________________Telephone: ( ) __________________________________Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________Occasion: __________________________________________________________________________________In Celebration of: ____________________________________________________________________________In Honor of: _________________________________________________________________________________In Memory of: _______________________________________________________________________________

If you wish to sponsor the same day each year, please fill out a new form each year.

May we acknowledge this gift in the diocesan publication Connections?

� Yes � No

Thank you for your donation to our Sponsor-A-Day Campaign.

Return this form to:Sponsor-A-Day Campaign

PO Box 2279Roanoke VA 24009

2012 DONORS

� April 19: Kathy Slavin in celebration of the 20th anniversary of being received into the Episcopal Church at St. John’s, Wytheville � June 5: Frank and Kathy Slavin in celebration of the 1st birthday of their grandson, August William Slavin � July 15: An anonymous donor in celebration of the summer camp program at Phoebe Needles � August 3: Ellen Bouton in memory of her parents on their wedding anniversary � October 3: Jim and Nancy Henry in celebration of Nancy’s birthday from cancer � October 18: Holly Hodges in celebration of the Feast of St. Luke � November 21: Dennis Case

Sponsor-A-Day pledges are used to support diocesan ministries.

Bold lettering indicates new pledges.

16

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18181818

Clergy SupplyThe following clergy have indicated availability for supply work in our diocese. Please contact kgarcia@ dioswva.org with changes.Additions and changes are italicized.

Anderson, Gene5631 Warwood DriveRoanoke, 24018(540) 776-9096

Bowen, Roger 324 Sherwood AvenueStaunton 24401(540) 292-6423

Busch, Glenn3024 Cardinal PlaceLynchburg 24503(434) 384-8673

Copenhaver, Bob50 Draper PlaceDaleville, VA 24083(540) 556-8307

Furgerson, John11Whitmore St.Lexington 24450(540) 464-1244

Furlow, Mark3812 Faculty Dr.Lynchburg, VA 24501(859) 321-9244

Robert Gilman414 Boys’ Home RoadCovington, VA 24426(281) 900-8839

Glover, John14449 S. Eastside Hwy.Grottoes 24441(540) 249-1402

Hershbell, Jackson274 Still House DriveLexington 24450(540) 464-4641

Johnson, Ronald N. 320 Dudley Creek RoadHardy, VA 24101(540) 719-2316

Jones, Richard1902 Jamestown RoadAlexandria 22308(703) 823-3186

Lane, John D. 307 Rainbow DrStaunton VA 24401(540) 885-5842

Laycock, Brad2725 Wilshire Ave., SWRoanoke, VA 24015(540) 765-4889

Litzenburg, Thomas316 S. Jefferson St.Lexington 24450(540) 463-58855

Lloyd, B.3202 Matthews LaneBlacksburg 24060(540) 552-5372

Mannschreck, Mary LouPO Box 757Tazewell, VA 24630(276) 979-4225

McNeer, Conrad490 North Court Street, #6Abingdon, VA 24210(276) 628-7817

Moore, Matthew1824 King College Road, Apt. D-5Bristol, TN 37620(423) 217-0950

Morrison, Robert D.119 Briarwood St.Lynchburg, VA 24503(434) 384-0019

Parrish, William3708 Manton Dr.Lynchburg 24503(434) 384-9758

Payden-Travers, Christine1711 Link RoadLynchburg 24503(434) 384-4744

Pruitt, George1246 Summit Ave.Roanoke 24015(540) 342-7229

Saarinen, Martin595 Mountain View Dr.Wytheville, VA 24382(276) 625-0325

Sinclair, Roderick1123 Courtyard Rd.Charlottesville 22903(434) 244-3507

Smith, Harmon2228 Karen Dr.Salem 24153(540) 389-5205

Spruhan, Judy720 Diamond RoadSalem, VA 24153(540) 389-1913

Clergy Supply Rates: The diocesan standard for Sunday Supply as Guest Celebrant and/or Guest Preaching is $150 for one service; $200 for two services; $250 for three services. The diocesan standard for Assisting is $100 for one service; $150 for two services, $200 for three services. The diocesan standard for Guest Retired Bishops confirming is $175.

All amounts are plus $.555 per mile, effective January 1, 2012. The cost of any meals and/or lodging involved is to be negotiated with the vestry.

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Bishop's Visitations and Sunday ScheduleBishop Powell visits every parish in the diocese over the course of fourteen months. July 14, 2013 will be his final visitation. Our new bishop's visitations will begin July 21, 2013.October 201207 St. Paul’s, Bear Mountain14 St. Mark’s, Fincastle21 Christ, Pulaski28 R.E. Lee Memorial, Lexington

November 201204 Emmanuel, Bristol11 Ascension, Amherst18 St. Paul’s, Salem25 Thanksgiving

December 201202 St. Mark’s, Clifford; St. Luke’s, PedlarMills09 Trinity, Staunton16 St. Stephen’s, Forest23 Christmas vacation30 Christmas vacation

January 201306 Trinity, RockyMount13 St. John’s, Bedford20 Christ, Blacksburg27 Council

February 201303 Trinity, Buchanan10 Christ, Roanoke17 St. John’s, Waynesboro24 St. James’, Roanoke

March 2 01303 Walkabouts10 House of Bishops17 St. Peter’s, Callaway23 Peace in the Valley, Nellysford24 Grace, Massies Mill Trinity, Arrington31 Christ, Marion St. Paul’s, Saltville

April 2013 07 Good Shepherd, Galax 14 St. Luke’s, Hot Springs

21 St. John’s, Roanoke28 St. Thomas’, Christiansburg

May 20130 5 St. Thomas’, Abingdon

12 Reserved19 Grace, Lynchburg

26 Memorial Day

June 201302 St. John’s, Lynchburg09 St. Peter’s, Altavista16 Emmanuel, Covington23 St.Andrew’s, Clifton Forge30 TazewellCluster

July 201307 Reserved14 Good Shepherd, Blue Grass (Bp. Powell’s final visitation)21 St.Elizabeth’s, Roanoke (the new bishop’s first visitation)28 St. Thomas’, Bedford County St. John’s, Glasgow

August 201304 St. Mark’s, St. Paul All Saints, Norton11 St. Paul’s, Martinsville18 St. John’s, Wytheville25 Christ, Big Stone Gap

September 201301 Labor Day08 Trinity, Lynchburg15 Christ, Buena Vista22 House of Bishops29 St. Paul’s, Lynchburg

October 201306 Trinity, Richlands13 Christ, Martinsville20 St. Paul’s, Bear Mountain27 Emmanuel, Staunton

November 201303 Grace, Radford10 Trinity, Moneta17 Good Shepherd, Folly Mills24 Thanksgiving

Looking Ahead at Evans HouseDecember01 Proposed changes to the Constitution & Canons due to Evans House1 Companions for Mission15 VPG / Parish Funding Commitments due to Evans House08 Special Executive Board meeting possible24-25 Christmas Eve and Christmas Day24--Januray 1 Evans House closed for Christmas and New Year's, will reopen January 2

Two More Ways to Improve Your Day in Just Five MinutesFive minutes. It's only a little bit of time. But it's long enough for you to do one thing that could make your whole day better. So take five minutes and try one of these 10 simple ways, WebMD recommends, to lower stress, boost your mood, and get more energy. It might give you that extra spark you need to meet the challenges of the day.

3. Clear your desk. From stray papers to scattered coffee mugs, clutter can make you lose focus and curb productivity. De-clutter your outer environment and you may feel more organized and better able to concentrate on the task at hand.

4. Pump up the music. Several studies have found that listening to music can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and boost mood. The right music has the power to change your attitude. So load up your MP3 player and create a playlist that will make you smile-- whether you're working or working out. As long as you don't blast it (bad for your hearing), this is a safe, healthy way to make your day more enjoyable.

--Suggestions adapted from webmd.com by Church Medical Trust

Italics indicate changes in the previously published schedule.

NON PROFITPOSTAGE & FEES PAID

Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia

"Using the gifts God has given us to do the work God is calling us to do."

In the New Testament, the word “saints” is used to describe the entire membership of the Christian community, and in the Collect for All Saints’ Day the word “elect” is used in a similar sense. From very early times, however, the word “saint” came to be applied primarily to persons of heroic sanctity, whose deeds were recalled with gratitude by later generations.

Beginning in the tenth century, it became customary to set aside another day—as a sort of extension of All Saints—on which the Church remembered that vast body of the faithful who, though no less members of the company of the redeemed, are unknown in the wider fellowship of the Church. It was also a day for particular remembrance of family members and friends.

Though the observance of the day was abolished at the Reformation because of abuses connected with Masses for the dead, a renewed understanding of its meaning has led to a widespread acceptance of this commemoration among Anglicans, and to its inclusion as an optional observance in the calendar of the Episcopal Church.

The mission of the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia is to challenge and support the creativity of our congregations

in Christian growthand global responsibility.

O God, the Maker and Redeemer

of all believers: Grant to the faithful departed the unsearchable benefits of

the passion of your Son; that on the day of his appearing

they may be manifested as your children;

through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God,

now and for ever. .Amen.

All Faithful DepartedNovember 2

from Holy Women, Holy Men

Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern VirginiaPO Box 2270Roanoke, VA 24009

Address Service Requested