|
DIOCESE OF NORTHERN MICHIGAN Once again this year has been one of slow but some steady progress in areas of concern to our aging population. Last year I mentioned the fact that I had raised the idea that the time is long overdue for us to take stock of how accessible our facilities are to those with increasing physical difficulties as we age. I'm thrilled to report that the Diocesan Council responded to this idea and did some research and inquiries around the diocese regarding the state of our buildings. The very exciting thing I have to report is that two of our congregations, St. Albans, Manistique and St. Mark's, Crystal Falls have each begun projects to upgrade their facilities in order to make them more handicap accessible. St. Mark's received a UTO grant to assist with their project. I'm hoping that other congregations may be having conversations about this same topic that I have not heard about. Alice Lewis of Manistique and Sue Karnack of Crystal Falls will each soon be submitting articles about their respective projects for publication in the Hiawathaland so we can look forward to reading about these wonderful steps forward soon. I remember a long time ago when I graduated from High School, our class motto was "One step at a time, but always forward". It occurs to me that that is a pretty good motto for us to keep in mind in our Diocese as we work and grow in service to our Lord, Jesus Christ. As always, I welcome any input and suggestions and especially offers of help for anything that might be of concern to any of you. Respectfully, Marcia Pruner, Chair
CAMP NEW DAY U.P. Inner city kids seldom get to catch frogs, roast hotdogs on a campfire, hike through the U.P. forests, or swim in a U.P. lake. They had all these experiences and more this summer at Camp New Day U.P. Rain and cool temperatures, frequent at some of the camps, didn=t stop the fun of the campers and staff. This August in three separate camps, Camp New Day U.P., an ecumenical Christian ministry for children of prison inmates, served forty-one campers, nearly doubling the attendance of last year. Held at Presbytery Point (Presbyterian), Camp Michigamme (United Methodist), and Page Conference Center (Episcopal) in Little Lake, staff members included all these denominations and our first Roman Catholic deacon. Campers hailed mostly from urban areas downstate, but also included a number of U.P. children. The program at Camp New Day U.P. is similar to other church camps. Children live together in cabins supervised by trained counselors; activities include swimming, crafts, games, ecumenical bible study and worship, campfires, singing, and cookouts. The staff=s goal is to surround children, who might otherwise never be able to go to camp, with a secure atmosphere where they can experience Christian love and acceptance. Camp New Day hopes to break the cycle of incarceration that is so typical in such families: children of prison inmates are 6-7 times more likely to be incarcerated themselves. In all camp activities, we emphasize cooperation B working together to achieve common goals B and increasing self esteem by providing opportunities for the children to be successful. This year some of the special activities included hikes to Mount Baldy and the McCormick Tract. At Presbytery Point, our Acraft lady@ Jacquey Shellenbarger, was essential to keeping kids occupied in creative projects during the rain. Another fun project was a nature scavenger hunt, where kids learned to identify various specimens from their environments. Without a doubt, though, the children=s favorite activity was Acapture the flag.@ Camp New Day U.P. has been generously supported by individual, group, and business donations, everything from money to a quilt for each child. These financial and material contributions will be absolutely necessary as our enrollment increases. We also appreciate the donations of the time and talents of our staff and board members. People who enjoy working with children should consider volunteering their time next summer. We need staff members with many types of skills and talents. As Co-Dean (along with Mark Engle) of the camp at Presbytery Point, I can testify to the satisfaction of seeing a child=s face glowing with pleasure as he/she runs up with a flower to identify, or giggles at a s=more that is a bit too crisp. This is an exhausting, yet deeply rewarding ministry to a group that needs it so much. Camp New Day U.P,=s board meets monthly (every third Tuesday) all year long to plan all aspects of the program. Since there is much to do besides staffing the camps, we could also use more board members. In the past our board has included Methodists, Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Lutherans, and Roman Catholic. Another benefit of this ministry is meeting and working closely with other Christians. If you are looking for a ministry that is rewarding and fun, consider working on the staff or as a board member. Our meetings will be the third Tuesdays at 6 pm at St Paul=s. For more information call Kay Payant, 225-5068 or Mark Engle, 226-2912. Kay Payant
CATECHUMENAL COMMITTEE Journey Through the Water was the theme for our fifth annual baptismal conference, January 9, 2004. We gather each January, near the Baptism of our Lord, to recall the central place of Baptism in our lives and ministries. This year a young, dynamic and creative couple, Josh and Cynthia Ivey Abitz of Trinity Church, Mackinac Island shared their journey toward Baptism. For some time they had been seeking a welcoming community. This they found at Trinity Church and thus began their journey toward Baptism. The entire Trinity family were a part of the formation process. A Baptismal date was chosen when every member could be present, and every member had a part in the service. Trinity Church was indeed welcoming, embracing and nurturing for this seeking and eager couple. Bishop Tom Ray reflected with us what we were experiencing. He likened our commitment to each other through our Baptism with marriage vows: "for better or worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health." This is how we love, care and support each other as holy people of God. Music, such an important part of our lives, was lively and joyful as Kevin Thew Forrester led us in learning and singing from "The Gather Hymnal". We were almost dancing as we sang "Wade in the Water". Mark your calendar now for the sixth annual Baptismal Conference. It will be held on the Saturday preceding the "Baptism of Our Lord," January 8, 2005 at St. Stephen=s Church, Escanaba. Carol Clark, Charlie Piper, Rayford Ray
CHAPLAIN TO RETIRED CLERGY& SPOUSES & SURVIVING SPOUSES The Church Pension Fund asked each diocese to develop this ministry: to help retired people understand their health insurance and to help keep people connected to their home diocese. Last October Peg and I took part in a training program at a church camp in Texas, Camp Allen. During the winter we reside in Ft. Lauderdale. We took part in a workshop on insurance in Miami in March. This summer we visited with Frank and Vida Hawthorne, Frances Robertson, Jane Horner, John Evans, Martin and Carol Bell, Tom and Brenda Ray, Alice Kuehnel, Phil Nancarrow and Gary Evans. We have also talked to most of the clergy families at the time of an insurance change. In October we will return to Camp Allen to continue our training on issues of aging. For Peg and me it has been a delight to reconnect with people we=ve worked with over the years. Respectfully submitted, Thomas & Margaret Lippart, Chaplains
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION - CHILDREN=S MINISTRIES The membership of the Children=s Ministry committee helped plan two major events in our diocese. The first event, Everyone Belongs B Celebrating & Creating our Common Life in Christ, was held at St. Paul=s Marquette. This event was a workshop led by Caroline Fairless and Jim Sims on activities that would include young people in the worship. The workshop started on Friday, March 19 through Saturday, March 20th. The second event, Youth Ministry Workshop: Diocesan Vision and Strategy, was held at St. Stephen=s Escanaba. Various people gathered to discuss educational opportunities and gatherings for young people 12 and older. Linda Grenz from LeaderResources led the workshop. We discussed opportunities that are offered to young people through the year in our diocese. Kevin Thew Forrester, Linda Grenz and Bonnie Turner will develop lessons based on LifeCycles for this age group for January 2005. If local congregations need assistance, call or email Bonnie Turner at 1-715-582-3581 or bturner@mari.net. CHURCH PENSION FUND The following persons who are now or were at the time of retirement clergy or surviving spouses of clergy canonically resident in the Diocese of Northern Michigan are currently receiving benefits from the Church Pension Fund. AGE RETIREMENT John D. Evans, Frank W. Hawthorne, George Poffenbarger II, Thomas K. Ray EARLY RETIREMENT Martin K. Bell, Richard P. Jennings THIRTY YEAR RETIREMENT Thomas Lippart, Philip Nancarrow DISABILITY Charles H. Swinehart, Jr. SURVIVING SPOUSE BENEFIT Elizabeth J. Barnwell, Jane J. Horner, Alice B. Kuehnel, Margaret Lusth, Frances Robertson, Beatrice B. Wylie The Total annual benefits for the above recipients as of August 23, 2004 amount to $218,373.60. Total benefits paid by the Fund for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004 to 8590 beneficiaries in all dioceses amounted to $150,186,049. That was $7,604,525 more than in the previous year, reflecting a greater number of beneficiaries, higher individual pension payments, and increases made possible by the abundance with which the pension fund has been blessed. Included in the 8590 beneficiaries are 5567 retired clergy, 372 disabled clergy, 2516 surviving spouses, and 135 dependent children. Patricia M. Coller, The Church Pension Fund
COMMISSION ON MINISTRY This was the first year that the COM worked with an expanded membership of 12 people. Since the Commission has continued to focus on supporting congregations involved in Ministry Development, these extra numbers have helped share the responsibility of serving as COM Companions. Each congregation has at least one companion, who serves as a liaison between the congregation and the COM, facilitating communication between the two. This has been especially helpful as the number of congregations with covenant groups has grown, including Marquette and Ishpeming. The main focus this year has been to review the newly revised Title III Canons, which have to do with the COM=s responsibilities in licensed and ordained ministries. The goal of the Commission is to make whatever changes are necessary to make sure our Mutual Ministry Process meets all the canonical requirements in these areas. This has taken different forms, including additional steps during Affirmation Weekend to the creation of new Focus Units to be used in addition to the LifeCycles Curriculum. Part of the new canon also involves continuing education requirements for COM members. The COM continues to oversee the ordination process of Leon Jarvis, who serves as the chaplain at Marquette General Hospital. Leon was ordained to the Transitional Diaconate on July 27, 2004 and will be ordained to the Priesthood on January 30, 2005. In other business, members of the COM have been involved in researching Sabbatical Policies, with the intention of having a proposed diocesan policy developed by the end of October. Also in progress is a COM Handbook and Formation Process checklist to help COM members with their responsibilities. Members of the COM this year include Dawn Aldrich, Nancy Auer, Carl Carlson, Ginny Graybill, Diane Horst, Ellen Jensen, Jim Kelsey, Tom Luckey, Carolyn Orchard, Manuel Padilla, Vince Reed, Kevin Thew Forrester, Bob Trautman and Bonnie Turner. Respectfully Submitted, Peg Padilla, Secretary
COMMUNICATIONS The Communications Committee met three times in 2004, continuing our work with website www.dionomi.org and newspaper, Church in Hiawathaland, and consulting with the Evangelism Committee on the TV and Radio Advertising Campaign. During the summer we began an overhaul of the website, moving to a new kind of server so that we can now offer online registration for diocesan events, surveys, even a kind of chatroom setup for people to talk online through our website. Barbara Susan continues to work on the website from downstate, and stands ready to update items for your congregation or diocesan group! The Church in Hiawathaland is published 10 times a year, in partnership with Episcopal Life. For the second year in a row, we had a wonderful response to our funds appeal, in which we asked our readers for donations (not subscriptions). As of the beginning of September donations totaled $5,512.75, with the cost of the mailing about $450.00. Thank you so much to all of you who sent in your financial support, and to all those who read the paper and contribute articles and pictures. Thanks to all the members of the Communications Committee: Jane Cisluycis, Jim Kelsey, Marcia Pruner, Claudia Nadeau, and Barbara Susan. Faithfully, Rïse Thew Forrester
COMPANION DIOCESE The Companion Diocese Committee has the following membership; Jim and Mary Kelsey, Mat Metor, Rayford Ray, Arlene Gordanier and Bonnie Turner. This past year several of us have corresponded using email to discuss various aspects of mutual ministry and worship. The people that have visited Christchurch and visitors from New Zealand correspond on a regular basis. At a future time, Rayford and Sue Ray and Carol Clark are planning a visit to the Diocese of Christchurch. Kevin Thew-Forrester has been invited to present his book, I Call You Friends, to the people of New Zealand. Thanks to all who have included our companion diocese in their prayers. Bonnie Turner
DIACONAL The Diaconal Committee approved two grant requests since last convention. St John=s, Negaunee, requested a grant to support building projects in Guatemala. St Paul=s, Marquette requested a matching grant to help support the Medical Care Access Coalition. Diaconal Committee Jean Erickson - Crystal Falls; Teena Maki - Crystal Falls; Mary Simmons - Escanaba; Audrey Hay (convener) - Escanaba
DIOCESAN COUNCIL November 14-15, 2003 Met with Committee Conveners and Council members, facilitated by Cliff Crockford. Developed long-term strategic goals for allocating time, talent and resources to support needs, and opportunities. Outcome of this meeting was document AJourney of Strategic Direction.@ December 13, 2003 Reviewed November 14-15 work, furthered plans for the coming year. Reflected on 2003 Diocesan convention, discussed budget planning process, Medical Insurance coverage. Set an agenda for the year of hearing reports throughout the year on the various diocesan goals. Set dates for 2004 Convention to October 15-17, 2004 in Houghton, and October 14-16, 2005. January 25, 2004 Reviewed diocesan goals as they were progressing. Appointed a committee to review the physical condition of the diocesan office building at 131 E. Ridge. Heard report on decisions around Page Center Manager/North Central Missioner compensation in conjunction with those congregations, diocese, and Page Center. February 28, 2004 Reviewed and approved property grant requests for St. Mark=s, Crystal Falls and St. James, Sault Ste. Marie. Further planning for Diocesan convention. Approved proposal to create an Diocesan Operations Coordinator position to help allocate time and energy of diocesan staff more effectively. Heard further reports on diocesan goals. April 3, 2004 Approved property grant requests for St. Stephen=s Escanaba; Trinity, Gladstone; and Trinity, Mackinac Island. Approved Cost of Living salary increases for 2005 at 1.9%. Heard further reports on diocesan goals. May 8, 2004 Toured the building at 131 E. Ridge to look at possible needed repairs and upkeep issues. Further planning for 2004 Diocesan convention, reports on diocesan goals. June 19, 2004 Considered first draft of 2005 budget. Approved a diaconal grant request from St. Paul=s, Marquette for the Medical Access coalition. Due to change in Province V by-laws recommended that diocesan canons be changed to provide that Province V Synod deputies be appointed by Council whenever a Synod meeting is called. July 24, 2004 Approved budget to be presented to regions and then to Diocesan Convention. Noted nominations needed for Diocesan elections. Heard reports on diocesan goals, including Youth ministry and Core Team. Received report on 131 E. Ridge St. property needs. Heard report that St. Luke=s on the Trail is disassociating from the diocese and re-forming as a community church, paying rent on the building to the Trust Association. Respectfully submitted, RïseThew Forrester, Council Secretary
DIOCESAN SPRING CONFERENCE Becoming a People of Non-Violence was the topic of the newly named Diocesan Spring Conference (formerly called the Ministry Support Team Yearly Conference (MSTYC)), hosted by Marygrove Retreat Center, March 6-8, 2004, and sponsored the Diocesan Peace and Justice Committee. Our facilitators were world renowned Christian Scripture scholar Walter Wink and June Keener Wink (known internationally for her pottery as well as her unique approach to the integration of body, mind and spirit). Forty-seven participants were led through presentations, discussions, and body-movement on matters such as the AMyth of Redemptive Violence,@ AJesus and the Spiral of Violence,@ ANon-Violence,@ and AHomosexuality and the Bible.@ A special thanks is offered to the Peace and Justice Committee for all of its work in putting this conference together. Respectfully submitted, Kevin G. Thew Forrester
EPISCOPAL ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGE WORK Where did the EACW Board provide treasure, time and talent? - Scholarship Brochures were made available on line ONLY - Provided $31,000 in scholarships to 28 high school graduates, undergraduates, foreign and graduate students - Awarded $4,000 to Sarah Kempke, University of Minnesota for international study in the Diocese of Christchurch, New Zealand our companion diocese - Provided in excess of $ 20,000 to Finlandia University, MTU=s Leadershape, KFRC and Trinity - Provided in excess of $3,000 in clergy Scholarship funds for the Rev. Rayford Ray=s travel to New Zealand and the Rev. Ted Durst=s travel to the Province V Higher Education Ministry meeting, St. Louis, MO. - Increased the use of the Canterbury House for hospitality (guest clergy, visiting musician) weekly Eucharists, and a non- denominational bible study - Participated in Cooperative Campus Christian Ministry=s Progressive Dinner for all MTU students, serving 48 people the bread and salad courses - Witnessed MTU students increase from 4 to 11, attending or in other regular contact, with Trinity - Witnessed MTU students increased participation of the in the life of Trinity to include acolytes, choir members, stewardship program, and committee work - Continued to provide articles to the Church in Hiawathaland, the Trinity Times and the Diocesan Convention - Participated in the Emmaus Project with the Rev. Jon Magnuson, Cedar Tree Institute to improve our communication and Board's effectiveness - Hosted a Welcome Back luncheon in September at Trinity Episcopal Church for students - Provided a copier/fax/printer/scanner and desktop Dell computer for the Rector=s use, on an extended loan basis, to Trinity Episcopal Church Joyce Menard EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN The Executive Board of the Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese of Northern Michigan includes the following members - The Rt. Rev. James A. Kelsey; Linda Vollwerth, President; Teena Maki, Vice President; Elizabeth Jacobson, Secretary; Sue Karnack, Treasurer; Maria Maniaci, United Thank Offering; Judy Britton, Church Periodical Club; Judy Andersen, Retreat Coordinator; Shirley Mande, Publicity; Joyce Menard, Province V President; Marion Luckey, Carolyn Orchard, Coralie Hambleton, Alice Lewis, Barbara Kell, Jan Buchman, and Pam Nygaard, Members at Large. The board sponsored the 8th annual Directed Fall Retreat in September 2003 at Page Conference Center. This is primarily a silent retreat led by the Rev. Ginny Peacock and is known to be a quiet time for spiritual renewal. There was also a workshop led by artist Liz Yelland. The board met on October 25, 2003 at the Diocesan office in Marquette, on February 7, 2003 at Marygrove, on March 15, 2004 by conference call, on April 17, 2004 for a work session at the Diocesan office in Marquette, on May 1, 2004 for a special meeting at St Paul=s in Marquette, and on June 14, 2004 at Bonanza in Marquette. The main focus for this year was hosting the Province V Annual meeting held May 14-16, 2004 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Linda Vollwerth, Joyce Menard - Province V President, Elizabeth Jacobson, Alice Lewis, Teena Maki, Judy Britton, Marion Luckey, Maria Maniaci, Jan Buchman, Shirley Mande, Carolyn Orchard, Sue Karnack, Caralie Hambleton (our quilt artist), Judy Andersen and Barbara Kell coordinated, served as committee chairs, served as workshop leaders, and were gracious hostesses for this event. Ginny Peacock served as Chaplain. Jim Kelsey welcomed our guests with an overview of our Diocese and was one of our workshop leaders. Rick Hambleton and Ed Buchman served as greeters and helped in so many ways. Dan and Amelia Musser shared their hospitality. Our light surely does shine. Thank you all. We continue to provide opportunities for spiritual growth for men and women throughout the Diocese. We also coordinate the United Thank Offering and the Church Periodical Club. Many in our Diocese have benefitted from these important ministries and this will be the focus for the coming year. As president, I continue to represent the Episcopal Church Women on the Diocesan Council. Respectfully submitted, Linda Vollwerth EPISCOPAL RELIEF AND DEVELOPMENT Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is a compassionate response of the Episcopal Church to human suffering in the world. Episcopal Relief and Development: Provides critical help to people worldwide Provides relief when disasters hit Rebuilds after immediate crisis is over Helps find long-term solutions ERD is an opportunity to touch lives in the U.S. and around the world. The caring people of the Diocese of Northern Michigan continue to support ERD, and help make it a successful organization. A hearty thank you to the Parish Representative who help publicize the fund and organize an annual in-gathering. REP; CHURCH: 1. Pam Briglio St. James, Sault Ste. Marie 2. Judy Britton Holy Innocent, Little Lake 3. Ellen M. Burgess Ascension, Ontonagon 4. Audrey Hay St. Stephen=s, Escanaba 5. Sue Karnack St. Mark=s, Crystal Falls 6. Betty Smith All Saints=, Newberry 7. Maria Maniaci Trinity, Gladstone 8. Pat Micklow and Judd Spray, St. Paul's, Marquette 9. Mary Miron Grace Church, Menominee 10. Robert Rafferty St. John's, Iron River 11. Gail Baravetto Holy Trinity, Iron Mtn. 12. Mary Kelsey Diocese of NM Respectfully submitted, Gail Baravetto and Mary Kelsey Diocesan Coordinators
EVANGELISM During 2004 the Evangelism Committee met with the Communications Committee. We scheduled the television advertisement which ran during the Easter season. We are aware that TV 6 does not reach the eastern end of the diocese. We are attempting to find venues for advertising on channels which do broadcast to that area. We also have some ongoing projects. We are creating a new television ad which we may run as funding becomes available. We do not have an advertising budget, and depend on donations for this work. The Committee also decided to create a workshop on making your church more inviting, to be available for congregational use. These projects are still in process. The Committee continues to solicit materials congregations may use to help in their evangelism efforts. Respectfully submitted Manuel Padilla
HEALTH RESOURCES The Diocesan Health Resource Web Page, established in 2002, covers main health topics, such as Heart, Cancer, Alcoholism, Drugs, Suicide, Grief, and will add any other health subject about which our diocesan members would need information. It is general information that one may want to have about their disease before going to their specialist physician, enabling them to talk knowledgeably to their specialist. The pertinent information is also a great help to one after talking to their specialist in gathering more information enabling them to make an intelligent decision concerning their course of treatment.
This health resource web page offers: 1#. A collection of/or list of books, web sites, videos, pamphlets, etc. on the above health topics which members have experienced as being helpful. 2. A list of crisis phone numbers available in each region of the Diocese. Members of this committee are Betty Ann Glascock, Ellen Jensen, and Lori Miller. This committee would like to update the following resources: 1. A list of Support Groups available in each region of the Diocese. 2. A person in each congregation willing to support this committee and be a health resource person to their congregation. 3. More information added to this web page, including recommending withdrawal of information found to be outdated or inaccurate. 4. More members for this committee. Please contact Betty Ann Glascock, Health Resources Committee Chairperson, at 906-477-6730 or cedars@lighthouse.net if you would like to help. Your participation and suggestions are most welcome. It is the hope of this Diocesan Health Resources Committee that the knowledge that this web page provides will be a light with which one=s spirit is lifted. Healing can then begin with the confidence and faith gained by the knowledgeable treatment decisions and the support and prayers of church, family and friends. Much of Jesus= ministry was healing. Many of his healings were called miracles. When the spirit is broken, healing does not take place. When the spirit is lifted by knowledge, support and prayer, who knows what miracles will take place! Respectfully submitted, Betty Ann Glascock
JUBILEE MINISTRIES This year for the first time, the National Jubilee Office awarded $100,000 in grant money to Jubilee Centers. The Office received over $350,000 in requests. The Keweenaw Family Resource Center, the only Jubilee Center in the diocese, was pleased and grateful to be awarded a $1000 grant. The money will be used to provide a parenting curriculum to families whose children are at risk for abuse and neglect. This may include parents who do not have custody of their children, families who are referred to the program through the court system or other very young parents. The curriculum will be individualized and provided in the family=s home. For the first time the Keweenaw Family Resource Center received $749.25 from a AMiles of Pennies@ grant through the Church Periodical Club in the fall of 2003. This purchased the curriculum, ASuccessful Living Skills@, to be used with teen parents who are in school to complete either their high school diploma or their GED. This also provided a match for the United Thank Offering grant received in September 2003. Sadly, the National Jubilee Gathering for 2004 was cancelled due to the low number of registrations. It has been rescheduled for May 2005. If any congregation wishes to know more about Jubilee Ministries, or whether their parish outreach program could be recognized as a Jubilee Center, please contact me at 906-482-9363 or 482-4484 or msottile@chartermi.net. Respectfully Submitted, Margaret Sottile Diocesan Jubilee Officer
JUSTICE & PEACE COMMITTEE/ CHILDREN=S ADVOCACY The Justice & Peace Committee/Children=s Advocacy Committee continues to be a focus for our life and mission here in the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan. We are here to encourage Episcopalians to strive for justice and peace among all people. In 2004 our committee planned a diocesan conference on non-violence. Walter and June Wink led the three day conference at Marygrove Retreat Center, Garden. It was a time to focus on issues of non-violence, reconciliation, peace and justice. June shared her unique approach to the integration of body, mind, and spirit. She led the group in movement and activity throughout the conference. Our Committee with the help of the Diocesan LifeCycles Group developed a drop down unit on diversity to be used as part of the Anti Racism session for Covenant Groups, Ministry Support Teams and congregations. This unit is available from the diocesan office. This unit is the beginning process of confronting racism as we look at diversity and move onto institutional racism. The committee is preparing a presentation for Diocesan Convention which will address our need to look and confront racism in every aspect of our lives. Churches in the diocese have received a letter from Margaret Sottile on behalf of the committee asking for monies to help provide scholarships which allows children of parents who do not have the necessary financial resources to attend school at St. Michael=s Primary School in Khayelitsha, South Africa. Margaret visited St. Michael=s in November 2001 and found St. Michael=s Anglican Church to have a vibrant and diverse community outreach ministry. She mentioned in a letter sent to congregations, ASome of their programs are similar to those of the Keweenaw Family Resource Center, an outreach ministry of Trinity Church in Houghton. The Rev. Rachel Mash of St. Michael=s told me of her dream to pen a primary school. In January 2003 her dread was realized when Grace R(reception) opened with 22 students and Grade I with 25 students.@ For more information, please contact Margaret Sottile at 906-482-4484. Our focus on Justice and Peace/Children=s Advocacy in this diocese has made an impact in many areas of our life and mission that goes beyond the work of our committee. For instance Camp New Day, Medical Access, UTO, Episcopal Relief & Development, Honduras (Our Little Roses), Keweenaw Family Resource Center and many more known and unknown to us. I want to thank the committee and the support of members of the diocese as we continue to be stretched by God in Jesus Christ to strive for justice, peace, reconciliation and non-violence. Committee members include Gail Baravetto, Gert Corrigan, Kevin Thew Forrester, Arlene Gordanier, Jenny Hanson, Anne Hubbard, Ellen Jensen, Marion Luckey, Shirley Mande, Jean Mather, Rayford Ray, Margaret Sottile and Anita Wingert. Respectfully submitted, Rayford Ray
LIFE CYCLES The Northern Michigan members of the committee are Kevin Thew Forrester, Jim Kelsey, Marion Luckey, Virginia Peacock, Charlie Piper, Rayford Ray, Roberta Shelby, Bonnie Turner, and Anita Wingert. Some members of this committee have met at least 6 times in the 2003 in order to >brainstorm= for the LifeCycles II units. Roberta has infused the team with new ideas and excellent editing. The committee has met with partner members Eric Heidecker (Nevada), Lynne Wilson (Wyoming) and, Linda Grenz (Consultant) of LeaderResources, 2 times in 2004. Other work is carried on by e-mail. Kevin continues to do most of the writing. Lynn Wilson and Steve Kelsey provide editing and feedback. Eric continues to work on the scripture component. LeaderResources has contributed editing and formatting as well as advice and direction. Thanks to feedback from communities using LifeCycles I and LifeCycles II, the product format has been updated, which is easier to read and organize for reference. The Diocese of Northern Michigan received our first royalty check in November 2003 (less than $200.) Much interest in the LifeCycles process and materials was indicated at the General Convention. A grant from the Roanridge Foundation ($18,000) helps to fund Kevin=s writing hours and expenses associated with the committee. Marion Luckey
LITURGY This past year the Liturgy Committee has continued to work from the foundation Charlie Piper described for it last year, ;;to serve the diocese and its congregations as they work at developing the most distinctive feature of our corporate life: common prayer. Week by week we are formed by our liturgical life which is simultaneously ancient and modern, traditional and contemporary, old and new. this committee seeks ways to support that preservation and innovation. Towards that goal the Committee has this year added new members and paused to reflect on past activities and future directions. We would welcome involvement of other people interested in particular projects or to join us for ongoing participation. General dreams and needs the committee is aware of in the diocese include many forms of resource development, such as: sharing with each other liturgies and prayers we have already created and encouraging further creativity; connecting congregations with outside worship resources, including those for music and for children in liturgy; providing focused liturgical training; sharing ways to be open to a range of liturgical styles; having more regionally based workshops; and facilitating the sacramental opportunities we have in all of life and creation. We also imagined developing worship-related focus units to be available as LifeCycles sessions. Specific activities of members of the Committee this past year have included the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, liturgies for the Wink Conference and the Caroline Fairless/Jim Sims workshop, recreating the Ministry Support Team Commissioning Liturgy, and offering a workshop on liturgical presiding in conjunction with the South Central Region. Please assist us in enhancing even further the richness of Spirit we already celebrate in our worship by letting us know suggestions for possible Committee=s activities, or feedback on current activities, or telling us the successes and needs of your congregation. Respectfully submitted, Anita Wingert MDST The Ministry Development Strategy Team is constituted by the Missioners, the Bishop, the Ministry Development Coordinator and representatives from the Commission on Ministry and Standing Committee. It meets once a month from September thru May. The group gathers for theological reflection and to have conversation on issues focusing on ministry development in the diocese. It has neither canonical nor legislative mandate. It meets for the purposes of creative and collaborative reflection, as well as the development of consensus around issues of pertinence. The intent of the group is to inform discussion and decisions made by various groups in the diocese. Plans are to continue to meet for the 2004-2005 year. Kevin L. Thew Forrester
PAGE COMMITTEE The Page Operating Committee continues to have responsibility for running the Page facility during the transition process establishing Page as a non-profit 501(c)(3) independent of the diocese. The new Page Board of Trustees is in the process of developing itself as a team and is working to articulate its own vision for the new Page Center, building on the work of a diocesan APage planning group.@ The Aplanning group,@ now defunct, worked to recruit the new board and to design a way to move forward, following the discernment process concerning the future of Page, considered and acted upon by the 2001 and 2002 Diocesan Conventions. The Page Operations Committee hosted two work days to help with preparations for opening for the 2004 season. At the first work day, volunteers concentrated their efforts in the dining hall, scrubbing walls and furniture and giving the stove and other kitchen facilities a very thorough cleaning. At the second work day, volunteers concentrated more specifically on preparing the facility for our church camps. Maintenance work in the spring included major tree work around the grounds, cutting and removing dead trees and branches. This is needed periodically to keep the camp safe, preventing falling trees and branches during high winds and storms. On the waterfront, a new aluminum raft replaced an old wood-frame one that had suffered severe ice damage over the winter. Already in poor condition, with rotting wood, the old raft had been a candidate for replacement. New swim rope lines were also installed this year, recycling the old floats. All the camps using Page this summer, including our church camps, appreciated these improvements to the waterfront. We have acquired four donated sailboats to be refurbished for use in the 2005 season as part of our activities. One boat was donated by Sally Diller and family, three by Camp Michigamme. Ongoing improvements this year included doors to the bathroom stalls in the bathhouse. This improvement was greeted very positively by campers, who had made this request. No major improvements to the facility are scheduled. The new Page Board will consider the concept developed for the site plan and will be responsible for final decisions. The committee held a meeting on May 8, 2004, in conjunction with the opening work day. The meeting included a review of our financial status, particularly as affected by cuts in the diocesan budget. Groups using Page this season included the following: Junior Church Camp; Senior Church Camp; Superior String Alliance: Elementary Strings Camp, Intermediate Strings Camp, Festival Orchestra; Edge Family Reunion; Camp New Day; St John=s, Negaunee, Grace, Ishpeming, and Holy Innocents=, Little Lake Joint Worship and Picnic; St Paul=s Goes to Camp Parish Weekend; Missioners and Rectors 2-day Fall Meeting; New Page Board Retreat; ECW Fall Women=s Retreat; NMU Native American Studies Program; Private Group Retreat. The Page Operating Committee anticipates continued responsibility for operating Page into the 2005 season, and reservations are being received and scheduled on the 2005 calendar. Jim Martindale, Convener and Ginny Peacock, Manager RESPONSE TEAM This has been another year in which the Team was not called on though it was a year in which there were some situations which I would term crises. Perhaps the fact that we were not called on speaks to the strength and unity of those congregations who came together to confront the situation and resolve the issues. This spring the Church Pension Fund had a training in Chicago for a new two-pronged program on preventing child sexual abuse aimed at both parents & congregations, and second ministries. Attending were Norm & Hazel Satterly, Linda Piper and Carol Clark. The new material was used in training camp staff for this summer. Though no dates have been set there will be training for others including members of the Commission on Ministry who are companions so they may provide the training to existing and future covenant groups. My thanks to all who have participated over these many years; I appreciate your support and advice, but most importantly your willingness to serve and my thanks to Norm for being an alternate. If anyone would like to become a team member call the diocese, Bob Trautman at (906) 293-3869 or Norm Satterly at (906) 779-1525. Bob Trautman, Chair
STANDING COMMITTEE January 2004 Consent to the elections of Mark Hollingsworth, Jr. as Bishop of Diocese of Ohio; Rev. Gary Lillibridge as Bishop Coadjutor for Diocese of West Texas; a Bishop Coadjutor for the Diocese of the Rio Grande. Consent given for the consecration of Rev. Canon Kirk Stevan Smith as Bishop Coadjutor for the Diocese of Arizona. Temporary inhibition for Steve Ford has expired and has been extended for 90 days. The extension will expire on March, 19, 2004. St. Luke's on the Trail---Sugar Island.......A motion was passed to keep the property should they choose to disassociate from the EpiscopalChurch. Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training will be redesigned. New trainers are needed. Anti-Racism Training is required by anyone preparing for ordination. Core Team is developing a process for extending shared leadership throughout the diocese. Rayford Ray will be present at the Standing Committee meetings. March 2004 Consent given to the Diocese of Oregon to hold an election. Ordination of Leon Jarvis (chaplain at Marquette General) will be held on July 24, 2004 as a Transitional Deacon. Marion Luckey, Annie Hubbard and Shirley Mande will attend the Anti-Racism Training. The group will meet with them to decide how the training will take place in the diocese. Linda Piper, Carol Clark, Russ Simmons and Norm and Hazel Satterly will attend the Sexual Misconduct Training in Chicago. The Standing Committee is responsible for seeing that the training takes place within the diocese. The inhibition against Steve Ford is extended until April 12, 2004. May 2004 Motion was made and passed to recommend Leon Jarvis for ordination. The congregation at Iron River has been asked for an audit and accounting report by June 1st. The Sexual Misconduct committee is recommending that the following people take the training: Standing Committee, Commission on Ministry, Response Team, Diocesan Council, and anyone working on Diocesan policy. June 2004 Consents were given for the following elections:Granville Porter Taylor as Bishop of Western North Carolina; Rev. Bavi Edna "Nedi" Rivera as Bishop-Suffragan of Diocese of Olympia. Steven Eugene Ford deposed for offences specified in Title IV , Canon1, Section (a). Susan Jamison, Secretary
STEWARDSHIP The stewardship committee gave a report at last fall's convention highlighting a lifecycles step down unit on stewardship. Kevin Thew-Forrester also gave an overview of the unit which he wrote in collaboration with the committee. As far as we know no congregation has used it as of this time. Rayford Ray is planning meetings with some new & old committee members in an attempt to revitalize this committee for the coming year. We hope this gets things moving forward as stewardship is a ministry which is vital to the life of our Diocese. For the Stewardship Committee, Jenny Hansen
YOUTH - CHURCH CAMPS Two Diocesan Youth Camps were offered this year: Senior Camp for 8th-12th graders had 15 campers, and Junior Camp for 5th-7th graders had 16 campers. We had great campers and staff at both camps, thanks to all who were involved. We had thought to offer a new camp, ADiscovery Camp@ for 3rd and 4th graders and an adult, but due to low registrations (though expressed interest was high), it was cancelled. For 2005, we will again have Senior and Junior Camp, and will add a family camp with a speaker for adults and activities for kids. Stay tuned for more information about this new camp. The camp continues to look better and better as more and more people come out and get involved. Camp changes lives, camp spreads love around: come on out to camp! Faithfully, Rïse Thew Forrester, Camp Director
YOUTH - HAPPENING As of the end of 2003, the Happening program had to cancel its' third event in a row, essentially making it approximately 2 years since the last Happening. Since Happening is a self-perpetuating entity, i.e., Youth attend a Happening, then become part of the continuing staff. Ideally, Youth attend at age 15 and serve on several Happenings as Youth on staff. Once they have graduated, their participation becomes less as a life of college, jobs, relocating geographically, marriage, children, etc. makes it more difficult to attend and participate on staff. As a result of a 2 year gap, we lost the momentum required to produce a staff of mostly Youth, which is a main goal of a program "for the youth and by the youth". At any rate, in my opinion, the dynamic / interest of Youth in the last several years has been more focused on employment, proms, sports, etc. These things have always been present, but there was a drive to make Happening a priority. That drive was diminished by employers who would not allow time off for the event, weak support from peers and others, and general lack of interest in a spiritual event. Happening was a more serious event with a more expected and rigorous routine than say, Summer Camp, Youth Rally, etc. where there is more emphasis on free time and "fun" activities. Happening had fun activities, but stressed more spiritual time, and seriousness. These are only my thoughts on this, and they come from my 17 years working with the program with all of its' ups and downs. In short, Happening has ceased to exist for 2004 and beyond. About a month ago, Jim Kelsey, let me know that there is some strong interest in keeping the program alive. I think that is good idea in concept, but I think the program needs a fresh start. Apparently, this would only be an annual event occurring in January-February, and incorporating Youth Rally. We discussed salvaging the core of the Happening event, but making some definite changes in the routine, and also abandoning the name. We will be meeting periodically over the next few months to develop a new program with a fresh name and fresh ideas that will hopefully create some renewed interest in a Youth program that will offer some spiritual development as well as lots of fun. The event may be shorter and less costly also. Who knows?? It will be an interesting and rewarding task. Feel free to submit some inspiring names or acronyms like "MSTYC" that has spiritual and fun inuendo. Peace, Jamie Randall YOUTH - WINTER YOUTH RALLY
The Winter Youth Rally last year was not held due to lack of registrations. This is one of the several aspects of youth in the Diocese that was and will continue to be evaluated and changed by the group examining the opportunities for youth in the Diocese. Laura Woodworth and Mat Metor continue to work with this group in planning this year's Winter Youth Rally. Respectfully submitted Laura Woodworth DIACONAL MINISTRY CONFERENCE The Diocese of Northern Michigan=s biennial Diaconal Ministry Conference was held September 10-11, 2004, at St. Stephen=s in Escanaba. Dn. John Willets from Jacksonville, IL., led us thru AMentoring for Competency in the Promise@, a continuation of the study begun 2 years ago, at the last conference. Our focus was on living into the promises we made at our baptism and ordination, and mentoring others to fulfill their call to be more Christ-like. In Friday evening=s session, after introductions, we looked at some learning profiles and started the discernment process about how we learn, and then teach. Time was also allotted to the discussion of the new Canons of the Church that deal with the Ordination and the Life and Work of Deacons. This was led by our own Bishop, Jim Kelsey, who played a major role in how these Canons were written and passed, last summer at General Convention. Canon 7 Sec.3 states: AThe Bishop may establish a Council on Deacons (ACouncil@) to oversee, study, and promote the Diaconate.@ And this is just what Jim is purposing to do, before our convention. Anyone interested in volunteering to serve, or wishing to nominate someone for the Council, should contact the Bishop. Friday=s time together was concluded with Compline. Saturday began with Morning Prayer, with Kevin Thew Forrester, acting as leader and musician, helping us to learn new pieces from the Gather hymnal and other selections. There were several that were not able to join us until Saturday, so we did introductions again. All totaled, we were deacons, ordained and in formation; Diaconal Ministry Coordinators, a priest, a bishop, and Aan interested party@; a very good mix. We then set about exploring what is mentoring, and what makes for a good mentor. John used the story from Acts 8:26-39, about Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch as a classic example of mentoring. Seeing a need, doing some active listening to define the need, suspending any judgment or assumptions, asking questions, and satisfying the need. In this case, conversion and baptism of the eunuch.Before the lunch break, we celebrated the Eucharist, each feeding their neighbor in turn around the circle. The afternoon was filled with discussion and further connecting with the baptismal promises, so they become part of our daily lives, in work and mission. For most of us, this has been a way of life for us already, and this is what our congregations saw in us when they called us to the Diaconate. This conference helped to show us that we have been about the Lord=s work all along, and here are ways to celebrate that and to help us share it with others. As icons of AChrist the servant@, we need to not only serve, but also invite others to join us in that service of the world=s needs. John left us with one question: If your church building were to burn down, who, besides the members, would miss the work and witness you present to the world? As we strive to live up to the core questions of our baptism: AWill you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ?@; AWill you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?@; and AWill you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?@, active and loving mentoring become as natural as breathing. May we all follow Philip=s diaconal example, and be ready to serve wherever the Spirit calls us. Maria Maniaci Return to Convention information page |