From the Rector:
Celebration of Vocation and Avocation on Labor Day Sunday
On Sunday, September 2, at the 10:30 a.m. service, you are encouraged to bring a token
of your work or hobby, something that symbolizes your labor and passion, and offer it on the altar when invited during the liturgy. This will be the fifth consecutive Labor Sunday that we have offered symbols of our labors and it has become, in my estimation, an important and meaningful custom in the life of our church. Worshipers bring diaper bags, computer equipment, resumes (are you looking for a job?), priestly stoles, prayer shawls, business cards, tax forms, weekly planners and many other signs of life and labor. On that day, as well, we remember that many people are underemployed or out of work. We recognize that many of us work in fear of a layoff or downsizing. Our Prayers of the People that day will reflect those ongoing concerns.
Stewardship Plans
As we begin to make plans for 2008, our efforts turn to pledging and stewardship. Pledge letters and cards for the 2008 Operating Budget will be sent out to you the week after Labor Day. Fellow priest and new Dean and President the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest, the very Rev. Doug Travis, will be our preacher at the 10:30 a.m. service on September 16. Doug is an old friend and I am just delighted that he has been called to serve the seminary here in Austin. He is a rousing preacher – do not miss this unique opportunity. I also hear that the Stewardship Commission is planning to offer a couple of brief skits to teach stewardship principles. This should be interesting, to say the least!
St. Matthew’s Day, Stewardship and Fellowship
You will be asked to bring your completed pledge card to church on St. Matthew’s Day, which is Sunday, September 23 at the 10:30AM service. We will bring the pledge cards to the altar and offer them and all they mean to our future, on the altar that day. St. Matthew’s day is, of course, our great festival and you can count on a fantastic day at the church. We will have a glorious Eucharist, pulling out all the stops in music and ceremony, followed by our customary lunch and celebration for all ages in Huffman Hall. As always, special thanks goes out to the Holy Smokers and the work team led by Stefani Minnear, which includes members of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew and the Daughters of the King, for preparing us for this fun and happy day together.
Building on our Sure Foundation
Elsewhere in this Word, you will find some updates on our Capital Campaign. I again want to thank all of you who have participated in this special work. The new building on our campus will be a fantastic fresh addition. Children and youth will now be better served and all of us will enjoy meeting in the new space at those times it does not conflict with youth ministry and Day School classes. If you have not made a pledge to the Building on our Sure Foundation Capital Campaign and desire more information, please do not hesitate to call me.
Faithfully, Merrill
