Spiritus june 2019

Monthly news magazine of Church of the Holy Spirit, Harleysville, Pa

Confirmands with The Rt. Rev. Rodney Michel, Assisting Bishop

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CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT STAFFThe Rev. Kathryn Andonian, RectorThe Rev. Johnine Byrer, DeaconMs. Sue Ellen Echard, Director of MusicMs. Dawn Hunsdorfer, Communications CoordinatorMs. Karen Work, Administrative CoordinatorMrs. Angela Shelly, Coordinator of Children's, Youth, and Family Ministries and Choral AssistantSeth Trumbore, Assistant MusicianMr. Barry Norris, VergerMr. Ken Patrick and Mrs. Tina Michener, VergersMs. Megan Sloss, Nursery StaffMr. Steve Thacker, Sexton

WELCOME TO SPIRITUS!Spiritus is an online magazine in glorious technicolor and with interactive elements! Wherever you see blue text that is underlined, simply click on the text and it will either open up an email so you can send an email to that person, or take you to the website that is mentioned.

Spiritus is an extension of the material found on the COHS website, but contains longer stories and articles to enhance your understanding of life at Church of the Holy Spirit, Harleysville. For anyone viewing this as a print magazine, please go to www.churchoftheholyspirit.us/spiritus/ to view the interactive edition.

OFFICE HOURSMonday through Thursday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PMFriday and Sunday - by appointment only

CONTENTS

Spiritus is the monthly magazine of Church of the Holy Spirit, Harleysville, PA. If you wish to reproduce an article, please first email Dawn Hunsdorfer. All content © 2019 Church of the Holy Spirit. Please submit Spiritus articles via this link: https://goo.gl/forms/bsAfz8rjwFotTbdj2

SUMMER WORSHIP SCHEDULESummer Sunday Worship HoursJune 16, 2019 - September 7, 2019Holy Eucharist at 8:00 AM (spoken)Holy Eucharist at 9:30 AM (with music)Child Care is available in the Nursery

RECTOR'S CORNER3. Rector's Corner4. Deacon's Voice

WORSHIP4. Last Day of Sunday School, Pentecost5. Father's Day, Summer Worship hours, Celtic Healing Service, Do You Know About the "Church"?

IMAGINING THE FUTURE6. Visioning Team/Capital Campaign Update

FINANCE6. Where do our Endowment Gifts Come From?7. Electronic Options in Church Giving

ADULT CHRISTIAN FORMATION7. Adult Forum, COHS Centering Prayer8. Al-Anon Meeting, Bible Study and Discussion & Brown Bag Lunch, Spiritual Friends Meditation Group, Men's Spiritual Growth Group9. First Friday Adult Faith Forum9-10. EfM

CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILY MINISTRIES10. Rent-A-Youth, Youth Updates for June11. Youth Event Recap

MUSIC AT COHS11. Concerts - Trumbore, Lockman, Bolding & Co.12. Break From Blue Collar, Suite Brass - Brass Ensemble, Riverview Consort 13. Cordus Mundi

ARTS AND SPIRITUALITY13. Contemplative Photography Quiet Day

PASTORAL CARE13-14. My Prayer Life - Jen Wager

PARISH NURSE'S CORNER14-15. Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month

IN MEMORIAM16. Patricia Stigliano and Stephen W. Redding

SERVING THE COMMUNITY17. Serving the Homeless Breakfast, St. Augustine of Hippo Homeless Girls and Women

AROUND THE CHURCH17. Welcome Newcomer18. Congratulations and Bon Voyage to Ted Olson and Jack Anderson 18-19. ENCORE is Alive and Well, ENCORE Events - Musical, Crazy for You, Perkiomen Bus Trip to Baltimore Inner Harbor, All Parish Picnic20. Summer Camp Collection, Shopping For Grads, Dads or For the Fun of it.21-22. Gay Pride Month

MEET OUR RETIRED PRIESTS 22-23. A Welcoming Parish for Retired and Non-Parochial Priests - Rev. Robert H. Coble

COHS PHOTO ROUND-UP23-26. Bishop's Visit/Confirmation/EfM Graduates, COHS Fair Day and Pie Festival27. COHS Concert Poster

ONGOING EVENTS & LINKS 20. Links for COHS information & Weekly Events

Many thanks to all of our photographers who submitted photos.

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RECTOR’S CORNERWE ARE CALLED TO SERVE AND SHARE THE TRANSFORMING LOVE OF GOD

Blessed are you, faithful God,Who has brought us to this moment on our journey.

With gratitude for all that has been, and trust in what will be,We say “yes” to your invitation to welcome, serve, and grow.

With Jesus and in the power of the Holy SpiritWe go forward in faith, hope, and love.

Amen.1

“Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?”

“I will, with God’s help.” (Baptismal Covenant2)

Upon entering the sanctuary at Church of the Holy Spirit, we are greeted by the sight and sound of the flowing waters of the baptismal font. The location of the font at the entrance reminds us that we are initiated through baptism into the living Body of Christ, the community of Christian faith. Baptism is the sacrament that forever defines the orientation of one’s life. In baptism, we do not embark upon a personal and private journey; rather, we become part of a people who share one faith and one God. Together, we are called to share with one another and the world the transforming love of God as expressed in Jesus Christ.

Through the waters of baptism, we are immersed in the life of God as revealed through Jesus Christ. We are remade into the likeness of Jesus Christ and called by him to alter our perceptions and actions. Rebirth in Jesus requires that we risk dying to our own desires and open ourselves to new life as we surrender ourselves to God’s purposes for our lives.

We serve Jesus in our daily lives through decisions, words, and actions that reflect his commands to love God and love our neighbors. We also serve Jesus through the Church, which is to be a witness of mutual love, praise and worship, healing, forgiveness and reconciliation, and service to people in need. Each and every one of us is called to serve as a minister in Christ’s church—imbued with unique gifts that, joined with the gifts of others, help to create and nurture God’s hopes and dreams.

Church of the Holy Spirit is a vibrant and vital church because you take seriously the baptismal promise to serve Jesus Christ. The recent capital campaign feasibility survey reported that the vast majority of parishioners are very active in the ministries of the church! And, most people are involved in more than one ministry, which recognizes the integration between worship, prayer, learning, mutual support, hospitality, and service to our communities and beyond. COHS is recognized throughout the Diocese and our local communities as a church that truly seeks and serves Jesus Christ in myriad and creative ways.

On Pentecost, June 9, which is our Feast Day, we will reaffirm our commitment to serving Jesus Christ as we celebrate our vision to expand our ministry and program space and add much-needed parking! We will process from the worship services to bless the ground upon which the new wing and expanded parking will be built and dedicate it to serving Jesus Christ.

As we continue to grow and move forward together in vision and service to Jesus Christ, Church of the Holy Spirit needs the diverse talents given by God to each member of this community. Our ministry leaders seek members for our ministry teams, including Outreach, Hospitality, Congregational Development, Christian Formation for Adults, Children’s, Youth and Family Ministries, Communications, Stewardship, Events, Buildings and Grounds, Pastoral Care and Worship. And, volunteers are always welcome to join our many music, arts, education, and ministry programs. Please prayerfully consider how your unique gifts may add to

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the life and ministry of COHS as we seek to serve Jesus Christ with God’s help.

Rejoice in the gifts you have to offer and with which you serve Jesus Christ - and be amazed at what God will accomplish through you and Church of the Holy Spirit!

We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness. Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. (Romans 12:6-16)

Submitted by The Very Rev. Kathy Andonian

1 Written by Ted Olson, COHS Vestry and Chaplain2 Episcopal Book of Common Prayer

DEACON’S VOICEGRATITUDE AND POSITIVE THINKING

Dear Seekers,

Isn’t it great when something happens and it is just what you needed to learn, read, or experience? Recently I received two gifts from a friend: (1) a book entitled A Daybook of Gratitude: How to Live Each

Day with a Thankful Heart1 and (2) another book A Daybook of Positive Thinking: Daily Affirmations of Gratitude and Happiness2. They are perfect additions to my thoughts and prayers. There are enough entries to keep me, as well as you, inspired for months to come.

I opened up A Daybook of Gratitude and read this inspirational verse by Ben Daniels (page 101):

“The priceless gifts we give each other are not the ones wrapped in fancy paper, but the gifts we give when we give of ourselves. It is the love that we share. It is the comfort we lend in times of need. It is the moments we spend together helping each other follow our dreams. The most priceless gifts we can give are the understanding and caring that come from the heart. And each and every one of us has these gifts to offer…through the gift of ourselves.”1

May you realize during this month how much your presence in someone’s life is called ministry, being God’s hands and heart in a world desperate for God’s love.

I remain faithfully,Your Deacon,

Johnine

Submitted by Deacon Johnine Byrer

Sources: 1 A Daybook of Gratitude: How to Live Each Day with a Thankful Heart, A Blue Mountain Arts Collection, Edited by Becky McKay (2014). 2 A Daybook of Positive Thinking: Daily Affirmations of Gratitude and Happiness, A Blue Mountain Arts Collection, Edited by Patricia Wayant, (2011).

WORSHIPSPECIAL WORSHIP IN JUNE!JUNE 2

This is the Last Day of Sunday School.

JUNE 9PENTECOST! Pentecost is the feast day of Church of the Holy Spirit. Join us as we celebrate this special day in preparation for the growth of our ministries through the capital campaign which will allow us to expand our ministry and gathering spaces, and expand our parking! Red, which represents the fire of the Holy Spirit, is the traditional color of Pentecost, so please wear red on this special day!  

We will recognize Sunday School teachers, Graduates, choir members and musicians.

Our annual early summer barbeque follows the 10:15 AM service (See page 19 for details). We will provide hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill. Please bring a side dish, salad, fruit, dessert or beverage to share!

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JUNE 16 HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

SUMMER WORSHIP HOURS BEGIN

8 AM Holy Eucharist (no music during the Summer)9:30 AM Holy Eucharist (with music)Baptism; Recognition of Education for Ministry Graduates.

CELTIC HEALING SERVICE ON THE LABYRINTH AND PICNICWhen: The 4th Thursdays, 6/27, 7/25, 8/22Time: 6:30–7:15 PM Picnic meal 7:30 PM Healing serviceWhere: On the Labyrinth (Indoors if raining)

“To all who are weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for com-fort; to all who struggle and seek victory; to all who sin and need a savior; to all who are idle and look for service; to all who are strangers and want fel-lowship; to all who hunger

and thirst after righteousness; and to whomsoever will come this church opens wide her doors and in

the name of Jesus Christ her Lord says Welcome.” (Quote attributed to Parish of St. Stephen & St. Tathan, Caerwent, Wales, http://stjohninthewilder-ness.com/year-b-st-luke-celtic-eucha.pdf.)

Join us at 6:30 PM on the fourth Thursday during the summer months (June 27, July 25, and August 22) for a picnic meal. Following the meal, we will offer a healing service in the Celtic Tradition. The service combines meditative silence, the simplicity of utter-ance, and faithful commitment to care for the earth that many of us are yearning for in our lives. The prayers in the service are at once simple, holy, and inclusive. In addition, private prayers and hands-on-healing (Reiki) are available during the service. All are welcome to attend.

Submitted by Eric Frankhauser and Tori Greenover

DO YOU KNOW… ABOUT THE “CHURCH”?Did you know that the day of Pentecost (June 9), the day that Jesus gave the Holy Spirit to his disciples, is celebrated as the birthday of the Church? Especially at Church of the Holy Spirit!

But what exactly is the Church or a church? It is common to talk about the “Church” at church; but, do you know that the word “church” has a number of different meanings? When we talk about “the Church” (did you notice the word is capitalized?) or “Body of Christ,” you might be interested to know that we are referring to the full spectrum of people, churches, and denominations that profess to be Christians - or, as referred to in the Nicene Creed, “the holy, catholic and apostolic Church.” And, do you know that the word “catholic” is de-rived from the Greek word meaning “general” or “universal?” When we use the word in the Creed, it does not mean a specific denomination but refers to the wholeness and universality of Christian life and worship and the inclusion of all kinds of people in the Church.

When we use the words “the Episcopal Church,” do you know that we are referring to the Christian denomination in the United States that is part of the Anglican Communion? The “Anglican Communion” refers to the many churches in many countries that identify themselves as part of the larger body of Anglican tradition and worship. Do you know that Anglicanism is not considered to be a different “religion” from other Christians, but is a “denomination” with distinct traditions within

source: freepik.com/free-vector/summer-beach_4413980.htm

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the larger “Church” or “Body of Christ?” The terms “Anglican” and “Anglicanism” are used in reference to traditions, practices and theological understandings that are common throughout the Anglican Communion, including the Episcopal Church. You might have guessed that while not all Anglicans are Episcopalians, all Episcopalians are Anglicans!

Do you know that when we talk about a “church” (did you notice the word is not capitalized?), we are referring to an individual congregation or parish? And, finally, now you have probably figured out that our church, which is named Church of the Holy Spirit, is an Episcopal “parish” which refers to an individual, local congregation of the Episcopal Church, which is part of the Anglican Communion. And, now you know that all Episcopalians and Anglicans are Christians who are part of the universal, catholic Church or Body of Christ.

Submitted by The Very Rev. Kathy Andonian

IMAGINING THE FUTUREVISIONING TEAM/CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE WELCOME, SERVE, GROW

As you look around the church, it is no surprise that we are an active, thriving and growing congregation! We have ministries and programs happening every day of the

week, and a number of those ministries meet away from COHS simply because we are out of space.

While this is a wonderful problem to have, we are at a point where it is becoming a serious issue, there are ministries and programs we cannot begin, and we could lose our image as a “welcoming” church if there is no place left to sit in the sanctuary.

The Building Vision team shared our architect’s latest designs with us recently at dessert receptions on May 19 and will on June 1. These will appear on our COHS website soon. It is exciting to imagine the possibilities that can happen as we take our next steps together as a church community! By taking on

a big project like this, one step at a time we improve our space while keeping it manageable, and it will still feel like “our church, only better.”

There are many ways we can each help this vision become a reality. A number of people have talked with me already about creative ways they could help this project along! Please say “yes” to God’s invitation to welcome, serve, and grow at Church of the Holy Spirit!

Faithfully,

Eric Hunt

Chair, Building Visioning Team

FINANCEWHERE DO OUR ENDOWMENT GIFTS COME FROM?How can you donate to it?As a Church of the Holy Spirit worshipper, you may wonder where our Endowment Fund gets most of its revenue. Each year the Fund receives on average about five to six thousand dollars in gifts. Of this, 80% are memorial gifts offered in memory of some member who has passed away. This past year the Vestry generously gave a year-end gift to the Endowment Fund. The remainder is largely received through unnamed givers.

How can you give to the Endowment Fund? You may give through Planned Giving by naming the Church of the Holy Spirit as one of your beneficiaries. This can be done using a portion of the proceeds of an annuity when you pass or you may designate a 10% proportionate tithe in your Will to go to the church Endowment.

You may also do this by naming the Endowment Fund of the Church of the Holy Spirit as the beneficiary or “partial” beneficiary from your IRA or 401K accounts, from your Life Insurance plan, or through a charitable trust.

We do ask that in doing so you communicate your intention to one of the Endowment Fund board members: Al LaTourette (Chairman of the Board), Susan Fisher-CFP®, Paul Bingaman, Michael Littler, and Linda Hill.

Submitted by Al LaTouretteThe COHS Endowment Fund is part of the Episcopal Church Foundation, which pools funds from hundreds of Episcopal churches across the nation, and invests the assets through State Street Global Advisors, a highly regarded, professionally managed investment advisory firm.

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ELECTRONIC OPTIONS IN CHURCH GIVINGCredit and debit cards have become the “cash” of choice for many people, and churches across the country are seeing this change in their collection plates every Sunday. After evaluating a number of options,

we have partnered with eChurchGiving to offer

more giving options. Simply text cohs to 77977 on your mobile phone (msg/data rates may apply) or visit churchoftheholyspirit.us/giving to make a one-time or recurring donation to COHS using a credit or debit card or to use direct withdrawal from a checking or savings account. You can also download the Pushpay app to your phone to make repeat giving faster and simpler (iTunes or Google Play). This does not replace giving/using cash or checks or web banking if that is working well for you, it is simply another option, a way to be more open to our members and visitors.

If you have questions, please see Eric Hunt, or Kirk Walters. Thank you for your continued stewardship and support of the many ministries at Church of the Holy Spirit!

Submitted by Eric Hunt

ADULT CHRISTIAN FORMATIONWhen: Sunday morningsTime: 9:00 - 10:00 AM Where: Parish Hall

JUNE02 Psalms: Prayers & Poems of Peace and Angst: Dave BoorseWe’ll examine the nature of Hebrew poetry, identify poetic elements in Psalms, learn about the kinds of Psalms, and write our own Psalm(s).

09 No Adult Forum

This summer we will do a mix of topics including Ted Talks and brief Psalm studies.

16 Psalms of Our Own Spiritual Journey. This forum will focus on using Psalms in our daily life.

23 Group Reflection on Psalms 2 and 4Some Psalms immediately may speak to you; these may not. In this forum we will reflect as a group upon Psalms 2 and 4, discuss how you may see God’s message in them (or not) and how they challenge you.

30 “12 Truths I Learned from Life and Writing” - Anne LamottJoin us as we view a Ted Talk by writer Anne Lamott. Shortly before she turned 61, she “decided to write down everything she knew for sure. She dives into the nuances of being a human who lives in a confusing, beautiful, emotional world, offering her characteristic life-affirming wisdom and humor on family, writing, the meaning of God, death and more.” (Source: https://www.ted.com/talks/anne_lamott_12_truths_i_learned_from_life_and_writing)

Submitted by Barbara Broadbent

WEEKLY GROUPSCOHS CENTERING PRAYER GROUPWhen: WednesdaysTime: 4:00 – 5:30 PMWhere: Eric Frankhouser’s homeYou are invited to the COHS Centering Prayer Group! Centering Prayer is called many things, such as The Prayer of Listening, The Quiet Prayer, Con-templative Prayer, The Prayer of Relationship, The Healing Prayer, among others. Are you interested in Centering Prayer? Are you practicing Center Prayer? If you don’t have any idea what Centering Prayer is, do you want to find out? If yes, then join us as we explore a centuries old method, rooted in Christian tradition, of deepening our relationship with God, both in our prayer life and into our everyday life!

We gather weekly on Wednesdays, from 4:00 - 5:30 PM. Our gatherings include Centering Prayer ses-sions as well as videos related to Centering Prayer, and lively discussion. Participation is not a weekly commitment; come as you are able. The only pre-requisite is a desire to explore or share Centering Prayer in community. We gather at the home of Eric Frankhouser, a Certified Centering Prayer Presenter. Questions or to sign up, please contact Eric at 267-261-3512 or frankgen6@gmail.com.

Submitted by Eric Frankhouser

Summer Schedule Starts June 16 Time: 9:00 – 9:15 AM Where: Meeting Room (room to the back, to the left of Parish Hall)

Permission granted by Pushpay.com

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AL-ANONWhen: FridaysTime: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Where: COHS Meeting Room

If you have, or have had, a family member, friend, fellow workers, or anyone close to you whose drink-ing or drug use is affecting or troubling you, Al-Anon Family Group, Path to Peace, meets every Friday, 10 - 11 AM. Come in the front door. Al-Anon is a 12-step program for people affected by someone else’s drink-ing or drug use and gives hope even if the drinker still drinks or the addict still uses. We find we are not alone. As we work the steps together, our focus on the addiction loses its power to take over our minds and our lives. We learn how to regain a healthier, wiser, more serene life. Al-Anon shows us a Path to Peace.Your questions are welcome. Contact Judy Morice, jemorice@gmail.com, call or text 267-733-7431.

Submitted by Judy Morice

BIBLE STUDY AND DISCUSSION AND BROWN BAG LUNCHWhen: Second and Fourth Tues. of Every MonthTime: 12:00 – 1:30 PMWhere: COHS Parish Hall

Brown Bag Bible Study meets on the second and fourth Tues-days of each month. Gatherings provide the opportunity to explore and discuss the appointed Scrip-ture readings for the upcoming Sunday services.

Submitted by Jan Boggess

MONTHLY GROUPSSPIRITUAL FRIENDS MEDITATION GROUP (MONDAYS)When: Monday, June 3Time: 7:00 PMWhere: Hobie Simms’ CottageOur monthly meeting begins with listening to Gregorian Chants as we enter and focus on God’s presence in the stillness. We will then listen to a 20-minute narration of the wisdom of Thomas Merton as we continue our series on the mystical beliefs of Thomas Merton. Refection and discussion will follow.

Meetings usually occur on the first Monday of the month at 7 PM. However, when holidays occur on the first Monday, meetings are moved to the second week. All are welcome. For questions, contact Hobie Simms at hobartsimms@hotmail.com.

Submitted by Hobie Simms

MEN’S SPIRITUAL GROWTH GROUP (THURSDAYS)When: Thursday, June 6Time: 7:00 PMWhere: Eric Frankhouser’s homeOnce a month, men of all ages gather to share our journeys and explore ways to grow ever deeper in our relationship with God as found in community, personally, and through any aspect of our lives. We do this by reflecting on and sharing any part of our lives that has our attention, from the sorrowful to the joyful, the exciting to the peaceful, the simple to the magnificent. This sharing is often done through story-telling of our journey, as well as through book and related study, and how the topics are pertinent to our lives and therefore to our relationship with God. Our next gathering will be Thursday, June 6, 7 PM at the home of Eric Frankhouser, where we will watch a talk by Eben Alexander, author of “Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife”; certainly a thought-provoking topic and presenter.

Come join us! Contact Eric (frankgen6@gmail.com, 267-261-3512) for more information or to RSVP.

Submitted by Eric Frankhouser

source: https://al-anon.org/

Image by Mohamed Hassan for Pixabay

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FIRST FRIDAY ADULT FORUMBacks Against the Wall: The Howard Thurman Story* When: Friday, June 7Time: 6:00 PM Pot luck dinner 6:30 PM Documentary 7:30 PM DiscussionWhere: COHS Parish Hall

This film explores the extraordinary life of Howard Thurman - an African American raised in the South during Jim Crow, a teacher, theologian, poet, mystic, a proponent of the non-violent struggle for social change,

and author of over 20 books. He is considered the main architect of the Martin Luther King, Jr. civil rights movement. His relationship with institutional Christianity was often conflicted with his passion for racial and religious equality. Join us to hear an amazing story of a deeply spiritual man.

For more information, please contact Hobie Simms.

Submitted by Hobie Simms * Source: https://mannerofspeaking.org/2016/08/24/quotes-for-public-speakers-no-240-howard-thurman/

EFM (AKA EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY) RESPONDING TO THE CALL OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Have you heard “everything” about EfM over the past 6 years? No? In that case, excerpts from the May 12 Adult Forum presentation may touch your spirit.

Q1 What does the 4-year EfM program develop? An informed and knowledgeable laity. EfM:• Provides us with the education to carry out the

ministry every baptized person is called to do.

• Asks for God to renew the covenant made with us at Baptism, “Send us forth in the power of the Spirit to perform the service you set before us.”

• Helps lay people face the difficult, and often subtle, task of discovering the richness of the church’s faith in a complex and confusing world.

• Provides the theological education which sup-ports our faith and teaches us to express that faith in day-to-day events.

Q2 What is one of the most fascinating aspects of EfM? Listening to each participant’s thoughtfully prepared “Spiritual Autobiography”! • It’s the story of significant events, people and

places that have influenced who each person is now and how they understand God’s presence or absence in their life.

• It provides a way to deepen their sense of Christian life and ministry. By virtue of baptism, each is called to ministry, guided and pushed by personal gifts, passions, skills, experiences, and interests.

• Each spiritual autobiography is private, “for your eyes only”. The participant decides what they want to share with their group. The group main-tains complete confidentiality, which allows the presenter to be free, without concern about how others will interpret their story.

Q3 What is EfM “not”?• Only a Bible Study - We seek to understand the

Bible within its historical context and literary setting and then apply it to daily life.

• A program in personal therapy - While the group becomes a close community, it does not exist as a problem-solving agency. It is also not a place where one is pressed to talk about things they would prefer not to discuss.

• A closed community - The EfM materials and the processes used are not secret. Guests are able to attend a session to see if they might like to join. However, we do respect one another’s privacy and set high expectations for the group to main-tain confidentiality.

• An academic program leading to a degree or ordi-nation program – however, continuing education units (CEUs) are available upon request.

Source: see below

Source: http://efm.sewanee.edu/resources/resources

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Q4 What is studied in each of the four years? Each year’s topic is solidly reviewed with lots of interesting details about the cultural, historical, and social influences of the time and location.

Year 1 – Old Testament, Year 2 – New Testament, Year 3 – History of Christianity, Year 4 – Theology, Ethics, and Interfaith Encounters

Q5 What are the yearly themes?Year A – Living Faithfully in Your World, Year B – Living Faithfully in a Multi-Cultural World, Year C – Living as Spiritually Mature Christians, Year D – Living into the Journey with God.

Q6 What does EfM Cost Per Year? $475. However, the cost can potentially be reduced by $200+.

The base tuition is $475 which includes all books and other materials. Subtract $100 with Diocesan support ($375).Subtract up to another $100 with a Diocesan Educational Grant ($275).

Additional help is available. Per Rev. Kathy, the inability to pay the tuition should not prevent anyone from attending.

Q7 When do Classes Meet Each Week? Choose from 3 classes facilitated by different mentors.Wednesday morning, 9:45 AM at COHS Mentors Tori Greenover and Jen WagerWednesday evening, 6:30 PM at Peter Becker Mentors Barb Broadbent and Jan Boggess (retiring June 2019)Thursday afternoon, 3:00 PM at COHS Mentor Eric Frankhauser

Please consider joining EfM. Feel free to contact any of the mentors.

Submitted by Tori Greenover and Jen Wager

CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILY MINISTRIESRENT-A-YOUTHDid You Know...Our current high school age COHS youth are prepar-ing for their 2020 Pilgrimage to England!

You can rent a youth (or two, three, or more) to help you with projects around the house, childcare needs, and more! The youth can babysit, mulch, paint, garden, house sit, help with the interior and exterior,

pet sit, along with other possibilities! Your generous donation - in exchange for his or her help - will go toward their Pilgrimage funds.

You can complete a request for “renting youth” by visiting this link! If you have any questions, email Stacy Bucher at stacybucher@gmail.com. Many thanks to our COHS community for your ongoing support of our youth programs at Holy Spirit!

Submitted by Angee Shelly

YOUTH UPDATES IMPORTANT DATES IN JUNE

02 The final day of Sunday School 09 Recognition of teachers and Graduates

Spring Family Ministries Picnic: In May, we had a few families join together for an evening of food, fellowship, and fun. Several youths played together on the playground while the adults both played and had some fellowship time together outdoors! The Family Ministries dinners will continue seasonally. Look forward to another invitation this Summer to our Summer Family Ministries BBQ!

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YOUTH EVENTS RECAPMay 12 COHS Events: Confirmation of our youth, reception, blessing of our EFM graduates and several of COHS members occurred on May 12. We were blessed to have Rt. Rev. Rodney Michel with us for Confirmation! Many thanks to Rev. Carolyn Huff, Rick Alderfer, and Maili Shelly for leading our Pilgrim class through their Confirmation classes. The youth have walked their Confirmation journey together through serving their community, participating in various ministries at COHS, learning about parts of the church and the Episcopal faith, and much more. They will continue now on their journey toward Pilgrimage and appreciate our community’s support. Thank you for supporting our youth in their journey toward adulthood!

The Diocesan Youth Dinner Church for the month of May was hosted at St. Thomas’ Church, White-marsh. This month was our final Dinner Church of the program year! Youth were encouraged to bring a friend and come break bread together in a safe space for all to share ideas, struggles, hopes, and aspira-tions. To support our youth in attending Diocesan events, or to get your youth involved in attending Diocesan youth events, visit www.diopayouth.org or contact Angee Shelly. Youth are always invited to bring a friend to Dinner Church. We are looking forward to implementing Bishop Curry’s Way of Love program into Dinner Church events starting next Fall!

May 18, several of our youth leaders in the Diocese of PA attended the quarterly Youth Leaders Plenary. We gathered at St. Thomas’ Church, Whitemarsh for lunch, fun, workshops and more! If you are part-time, full-time, paid or volunteer, you are a part of DioPA Youth Leaders and invited to attend the quarterly leadership plenary meetings. At this plenary, we continued our Affinity Group work, hosted a Dinner Church How-To, created the 2019-2020 program calendar and more. We are looking forward to having many more youth leaders attend this fun meeting in the future!

On May 18, many of our youth participated in our annual COHS Fair Day & Pie Festival. They ran car washes and children’s activities throughout the day. Many thanks to all who supported our youth in their fundraisers! Fair Day is always a fun and exciting day and we are blessed to be a community who comes together to raise funds for the Keystone Opportunity Center!

Join us for God’s Children Sing! All children ages 2-5 and their parents are invited to sing, dance, and make music in the end room of Annex 2 with our fun and loving teachers, Miss Emily, Miss Karen, and Miss Carol, during the 9 AM Sunday School hour every Sunday! Get ready to sing songs about God’s world, hear stories of the Bible, play musical instruments, dance to folk music, and more! This class is a fun way for our youngest youth friends and their families to be introduced to our youth program at COHS and get involved!

Our Recognition of Teachers and Graduates Sun-day will be June 9. Please plan to attend and cele-brate our teachers and graduates in our COHS commu-nity!

Submitted by Angee Shelly

MUSIC AT COHSTRUMBORE, LOCKMAN, BOLDING & CO.When: Saturday, June 29Time: 7:00 PMWhere: COHS SanctuaryJoin us for a wonderful concert by some of our favor-ite musicians – Seth Trumore, piano; Peter Lockman, cello; Keoni Bolding, viola and violin; along with a guest.

Stay tuned for more information!

Source: pixabay.com

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BREAK FROM BLUE COLLARWhen: Friday, July 26Time: 7:30 PMWhere: COHS Sanctuary

“Break from Blue Collar is making a distinct mark in the world of barbershop and a cappella music, mixing fresh interpretations of barbershop classics with the exciting sounds of rock & roll. The result is an entertainment experience that can’t be beat.”1

“BFBC was formed in 2010 by Millersville University students who had a desire to create high-quality and high-entertainment barbershop and a cappella music. They first gained recognition as the school board/quartet in a production of Meredith Wilson’s “The Music Man” with the Cavod Academy of the Arts, and have since performed at a wide variety of events throughout Lancaster County and the surrounding areas. They actively participate in various benefit concerts and have raised over $30,000 for different charities throughout Lancaster County and the surrounding areas. BFBC is also gaining recognition in the competitive circuit1, having won first-place at

the 2017 Central Division Quartet Contest with the Mid-Atlantic District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. They have also performed the National Anthem for the Hershey Bears, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, and the New Jersey Devils, which was broadcast to millions of people on ESPN2.

The guys are thrilled that people are drawn to their unique vocal and performance style, and are grateful for the growing opportunities being offered to them in the Lancaster area and beyond. Break From Blue Collar is: Zach Bailey (Tenor), Benjamin Hallowell (Lead), Tyler Hart (Baritone), and Shaun Ressler (Bass)”.2

If you’re looking for a barbershop quartet or a cappella group in the Lancaster, PA area or beyond, feel free to contact them!

Website -http://www.breakfrombluecollar.comFacebook -http://www.facebook.com/BreakFromBlueCollarEmail - quartet@breakfrombluecollar.com, online https://www.breakfrombluecollar.com/contact-us/ 1 https://www.breakfrombluecollar.com/ 2 http://lititzrecord.com/entertainment/a-capella-group-at-lititz-farmers-market/

SUITE BRASSWhen: Friday, August 23Time: 7:30 PMWhere: COHS SanctuaryRobert Bugge, coordinator and musician. Mark your calendars - more information to come!

RIVERVIEW CONSORT When: Saturday, October 5Time: 7:00 PMPlace: COHS SanctuaryRiverview Consort is an early music ensemble of lutes, recorders, percussion and voices!

Photo used by permission: BreakFromBlueCollar.com

Photo used by permission: BreakFromBlueCollar.com

Source: Pixabay

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Copyright 2018 © Catherine D. Kerr photos

CORDUS MUNDIWhen: Saturday, November 9Time: 7:00 PMPlace: COHS SanctuarySoutheastern Pennsylvania's Unique Source Of Male A Cappella Music

From CordusMundi.com: "Dedicated to the explo-ration and expansion of the male vocal repertoire, Cordus Mundi was born in Bucks County, PA in early 2005. beginning as a small ensemble of nine voices. As we celebrate our thirteenth season in 2018-2019 with nineteen members, we are proud to say that Cordus Mundi has developed a strong regional fol-lowing, and in the process, have made quite a name for ourselves - our quality is high, our repertoire is varied and eclectic, and the group's musical influ-ences are truly widespread. Cordus Mundi draws its repertoire from a wide range of composers, styles and eras - from the twelfth century to the present, from Dunstable to Duruflé, from Byrd to Bernstein, from Palestrina to Paranjoti, from Stephen Foster to Billy Joel, from Brahms to The Beatles, and from Jacob Handl to Edie Hill."

Submitted by Sue Ellen Echard

ARTS AND SPIRITUALITYCONTEMPLATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY QUIET DAY MAKING PICTURES AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE

Date: Saturday, June 15Time: 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM Where: COHSBring your own lunch; drinks will be provided.Contemplative photography - making pictures as a spiritual practice - isn’t about learning to take good

photos, but rather about learning to see in a way that’s fully attentive. As we become more open to appreciating the beauty that is all around us, we also become more aware of the Creator’s presence here with us and at work in our lives.

This quiet day led by the Rev. Catherine D. Kerr will offer time for taking pictures or experimenting in each individual’s preferred medium, for reflection, and sharing them with the group. We’ll be free to roam both inside and around the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit in Harleysville, and the day will include guided tours of the property led by Julie Glass, the parish’s resident naturalist.

No particular photographic skill is required to participate. Bring the equipment you feel comfortable using: A camera and laptop are good if you have them, but a cell phone camera is also fine. This isn’t an art class, but rather an exercise in seeing the world with open eyes and an open heart. Artists who feel more comfortable working in another medium are also welcome to participate, as are those who just want to increase their awareness. Bring your sketchbook, notebook, watercolors, or whatever art supplies you prefer.

Rev. Kerr, who never leaves home without a camera, is a writer, a spiritual director, and retired rector of Good Shepherd Church in Hilltown. Her photography has been included at a number of art shows near her home in New Hope.

To register, please email Ruth Konrad: papermillfarm@gmail.com by June 1.

Submitted by Ruth Konrad

PASTORAL CAREMY PRAYER LIFE – JEN WAGER I was raised Presbyterian. The Pastor did all the praying.

Confirmation required us to memorize the Apostles’ Creed and prepare a written statement of faith. There was also instruction in Presbyterian doctrine…

A free will offering will be accpeted and a reception will follow all concerts.

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which was way above most of our 12-year-old heads. I do not recall any instruction about prayer.

At age 29, I attended my first Episcopal service. The lay participation in worship was new and exciting. Everything I needed to participate was right there in The Book of Common Prayer…including pages of beautiful prayers. I felt safe

having all the words there for me.

As I gradually settled in and got involved, I began to notice other prayers popping up here and there…by lay people…without The Book!!! I felt a bit of panic that spontaneous prayer might be expected of me sooner or later. I did not know how to pray without written words in front of me.

Forty-five Episcopal years later, I still cannot pray spontaneously in front of people. My anxiety goes into overdrive. I can’t think sensibly. My words get all jumbled up. Yet all is not lost! I do have the “words” in my private conversations with God. It’s easy when it’s just Him and me in the kitchen, out in the yard, in the car, day or night, when I am happy, sad, or angry. Any time…any place. Sometimes I don’t want to be quiet and listen but conversations must go both ways to be productive!

I have also grown into an understanding that prayer is not only about words. Prayer can be what I do as well as what I say. There is prayer in behavior - in respect for life, for others, and for oneself. I believe God knows who we really are at all times in “thought and deed” as well as “word”.

Psalm 66:18: “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the LORD would not have listened” (NIV).

Jen has been a member of COHS for eight years and is co-leader of the Wednesday Education for Ministry (EfM) study group.

Submitted by Marge Hanna Zeig

PARISH NURSE’S CORNERALZHEIMER’S AND BRAIN AWARENESS MONTHIn June we observe Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. The National Institute on Aging reports “Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with Alzheimer’s, symptoms first appear in their mid-60s. Estimates vary, but experts suggest that more than 5.5 million Americans may have Alzheimer’s1 (https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers/basics ).

Alzheimer’s disease is currently ranked as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, but recent estimates indicate that the disorder may rank third, just behind heart disease and cancer, as a cause of death for older people”2 (https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet ). For more information visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers/basics .

EARLY DETECTION MATTERS

Have you noticed any of these warning signs? As shared by the Alzheimer’s Association: “Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symp-tom of Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. There are 10 warning signs and symptoms. If you notice any of them, don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with your doctor.”3

Please list any concerns you have and take these pages with you to the doctor. Note: This list is for information only and not a substitute for a consulta-tion with a qualified professional.

“1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life: One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease, especial-ly in the early stage, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important

Source: www.alz.org/media/Documents/10-signs-checklist.pdf

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dates or events, asking for the same information over and over, and increasingly needing to rely on aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or fami-ly members for things they used to handle on their own. What’s a typical age-related change? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems: Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before. What’s a typical age-re-lated change? Making occasional errors when balanc-ing a checkbook.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure: People with Alzheimer’s disease often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes they may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game. What’s a typical age-related change? Occasionally needing help to use the set-tings on a microwave or to record a television show.

4. Confusion with time or place: People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understand-ing something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there. What’s a typical age-related change? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some people, having vision prob-lems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with driving. What’s a typical age-related change? Vision changes related to cataracts.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing. People with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems find-ing the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a ‘watch’ a ‘hand clock’). What’s a typical age-related change? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. A person with Alzheimer’s may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Some-times, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time. What’s a typical age-related change? Misplacing things from time to time and retracing steps to find them.

8. Decreased or poor judgment. People with Alz-heimer’s may experience changes in judgment or decision making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less at-tention to grooming or keeping themselves clean. What’s a typical age-related change? Making a bad decision once in a while.

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have expe-rienced. What’s a typical age-related change? Some-times feeling weary of work, family and social obliga-tions.

10. Changes in mood and personality. The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can become confused, suspicious, de-pressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone. What’s a typical age-related change? Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.”3

If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease, please see a doctor to find the cause. Early diagnosis gives you a chance to seek treatment and plan for your future.

The Alzheimer’s Association can help. Visit www.alz.org/alzheimer_s_dementia or call 800.272.3900 (TTY: 866.403.3073).

Submitted by Marge Hanna Zeig1 https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers/basics2 https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet3 www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs This checklist (www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs) is an official publication of the Alzheimer’s Association but may be distributed by unaffiliated organizations or individuals. Such distribution does not constitute an endorsement of these parties or their activities by the Alzheimer’s Association. © 2009 Alzheimer’s Association. All rights reserved. Rev. July 16 TS-0066.

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IN MEMORIAM

PATRICIA STIGLIANO

On Saturday, April 27, Patricia Stigliano passed from this life to a new life with God following a ten-year struggle with cancer. During her final weeks, she welcomed the sounds and colors of Spring from her window. She was comforted by visits from the people she loved and was lovingly and gently cared for by her husband, Tom, children Alyssa, Wesley, and William, niece Nicole, and many others in her extended family and circle of close friends.

Patty, Tom and their family were founding members of Church of the Holy Spirit. Over their years at COHS, they participated in the many changes and dreams of this church community. Patty was a faithful member of the Tuesday Brown-Bag Bible Study group, a graduate of Education for Ministry (EfM), and long-time student of T’ai Chi and Qi Gong. She was creative, artistic, and spiritually curious. She loved nature, gardening, flowers, and the creatures of the earth and sky. Most of all, Patty was deeply and lovingly committed to her family, friends, and community.

A memorial service was held for Patty on Saturday, May 25.

Please pray with thanksgiving for her life, commend her to God’s embrace, and hold her family and one another in gentleness and hope.

STEPHEN W. REDDING

March 01, 1947 - April 08, 2019Stephen Redding, the owner of Happy Tree, passed away on April 8. He was the landscaper for the original plantings at Holy Spirit. Stephen was also good comrades with Chris Detweiler’s father, Paul, who built our church. Stephen created and gifted the rock garden and wooden cross outside the side entrance of the church The Rev. Anne Ritchings remembers that Stephen “had a great appreciation for the church and our commitment to preserving as much of the natural landscape as we could. He was a truly lovely human being and a joy to work with. I think of him whenever I am at Holy Spirit and look at the trees he planted.” May he rest in peace.

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SERVING THE COMMUNITYSERVING THE HOMELESS BREAKFASTWhen: Sunday, June 30Time: 7 – 9 AMWhere: St. Augustine of Hippo, Norristown, PASt. Augustine’s Breakfast Program serves breakfast to about 90 homeless people from 7 - 9 AM. We need about nine volunteers.

How do we get there? Some volunteers choose to leave from Church of the Holy Spirit at 6:15 AM and others to meet at St. Augustine’s at 7 AM.

If you haven’t tried this program, please come join us and experience it for yourself. You may just love it! The next breakfast is on Sunday, June 30. There will be a sign-up Genius email distributed toward the end of May for you to become a volunteer. Questions? Contact Eileen Pugliese at 610-454-7920. Thank you!

Submitted by Eileen Pugliese

ST. AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO HOMELESS GIRLS AND WOMENUrgently Needed Feminine Hygiene Products – Please donate

The Girls’ Friendly Society (GFS) is partnering with St. Augustine of Hippo in Norristown to address an unmet, ongoing need for feminine hygiene products for homeless girls and women. Can you imagine this day in age that these basic care products are not affordable or accessible for the homeless?

We are also requesting donations of large cosmetic bags, string backpacks, or simple cloth/knitted bags so these products can be discretely carried by the ladies wherever they go.

A box will be set up in the Narthex to collect all donations on an ongoing basis. Thank you so much for helping the people served by St. Augustine of Hippo.

Submitted by Amy Newman and Danielle Beldham

AROUND THE CHURCHWELCOME NEWCOMER!JIMMY R. STORMANT

Jim is the son of Bob and Nina Stormant, brother of David Allen, and sister of Bobbie Lee.

Born in Doylestown, Jim has lived in New Jersey and Florida and now resides in Warminster, PA. He was a machinist for 25 plus years, then took up commercial truck driving

and traveled our great country extensively. Jim spent his final working years working for a private railroad in Morrisville, PA to be close to his family. He was married twice with no children of his own.

Jim came to know Deacon Johnine Byrer in 2017 and became more and more inspired by her sermons of love, forgiveness, and faith. This led him to see what COHS was all about. He started attending services last October and was baptized at the Easter Vigil on April 20, 2019. Jim is very proud and humbled to be a member of COHS. As he says, “it has truly opened my eyes to all that is good. God bless”.

Submitted by Kathy Clipp

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CONGRATULATIONS AND BON VOYAGE TO JACK ANDERSON AND TED OLSON

After years of careful planning, Jack and Ted are following their dreams. They are retiring and will relocate later this month with their two cats Annie Therese and Lucie Marie. to a new home built in Millsboro, Delaware. What huge

changes in just one month!

Jack and Ted first came to Church of the Holy Spirit in June 2013. As Ted described it, “we experienced a welcoming community (with cookies on our doorstep the next day thanks to Jean Fairfield), a vibrant liturgy, superb music, challenging preaching, and great hospi-tality. After several years of searching, we had found our spiritual home”. In May 2015, both were received into the communion of the Episcopal Church.Ted was raised Roman Catholic and served for over 20 years as a priest in the Roman Catholic Church. He left active ministry a number of years ago and made a career change in 2001 into counseling and worked locally in this field until his retirement. At COHS, Ted served as a member of the Vestry, Chaplain of the Visioning Committee, and a lector. Over the past several years, Ted engaged in a process of prayerful discernment about his ongoing call to be a priest. He faithfully undertook this journey with Bishop Daniel Gutierrez, Rev. Kathy, and others who were his mentors, advisors, and partners in prayer. Although approved by Bishop Daniel Gutierrez for reception as a priest in the Episcopal Church, it will become reality at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lewes, Delaware sometime after the move. The COHS congregation is invited to join in the celebration and thanksgiving.

Jack followed a similar path. He also was raised

Roman Catholic and served for 11 years as a priest in the Roman Catholic Church. After leaving the ministry, Jack first became an elementary school teacher teaching the second, third, and fourth grades. About 13 years ago, he transitioned into a Student Support Counselor role and is currently located at Butler Elementary School in Chalfont. Jack has worked in the Central Bucks School District for 25 years and loves working with the kids. He will officially retire in October.

In January 2014, Jack started ENCORE (a theatre and musical arts recreation/education ministry for COHS parishioners and friends ages 55+) and very ably led it for five years. The lives of participants were enriched and inspired by the wide variety of musical and theatre events he selected, e.g., 12th Night Festivals, Bucks County Choral Society concerts, COHS Lessons and Carols, musicals and theatre at the Labuda Center of DeSales University and other local venues. Jack has also served as a lector at COHS and just graduated from the 4-year Education for Ministry (EfM) program.

Jack and Ted have vacationed in Rehoboth, Delaware for many years, which led them to retire in the area. They have already established connections with St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lewes, Delaware as their new spiritual home. And there is even a connection to COHS as the Rector, The Rev. Jeffrey Ross, and Rev. Kathy have worked with each other for years within the Episcopal priestly community.

Jack and Ted, we thank you for your friendship, contributions, and positive impact during your time at COHS. While we will certainly miss you, we wish you every happiness and joy as you embark on this next “stage” of your life. See you on the beach!

Submitted by Louise Beebe

ENCOREENCORE IS ALIVE & WELL!!ENCORE (Engaging New Corridors of Recreation and Education) is a senior (aged 55+) ministry at COHS designed “to provide for opportunities for the community through recreation, education and spiri-tual exploration”. The group meets at various venues, usually monthly, in neighboring communities. As you have heard, Jack Anderson and Ted Olson are moving to Delaware and, thus, Jack will no longer be able to lead the ENCORE ministry. We are so grateful for all he has done over the past few years - the monthly lunches or dinners, theater, and music events have

Permission granted by Universal Church Directories

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been a marvelous opportunity for fellowship for the 55 plus at COHS.

Please welcome Maryanne Swartz and Marge Hanna Zeig as the new Coordinators for this wonderful ministry! They have already organized events for June 22 and August 3.

Your input is requested in the selection of upcom-ing events and restaurants. Please take a few mo-ments to complete a survey using this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XJTJSYW .

UPCOMING EVENTS:

MUSICAL - CRAZY FOR YOU When: Saturday, June 22Time: 2:00 PM Matinee Where: DeSales Shakespeare Festival, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PADeadline: Friday, June 7Enjoy a noon lunch at the Brick Tavern Inn, 2460 Old Bethlehem Pike, Quakertown.

Tickets are running $60 for A seating ($58 for 65+), $30 for B+ seating, and $25 for B seating. This event sells out quickly so please contact Marge Hanna Zeig at Mehanna47@comcast.net by Friday, June 7 if you are interested in attending.

PERKIOMEN BUS TRIP TO BALTIMORE INNER HARBOR

When: Saturday, August 3Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PMCost: $54 (does not include lunch)Deadline: Friday, June 28Optional Add-ons: $34 Aquarium for adults/seniors (hourly timed admissions), $23 Ripley’s Believe It or Not Enjoy the day exploring the Inner Harbor area at your leisure! Free time at Baltimore Inner Harbor.

Bus pick-ups: 6:40 AM at the Souderton Care & Share; 7:00 AM in Montgomeryville behind the Home Depot.

Lunch TBD – there are many options available.

Please contact Maryanne Swartz at Maryanne93@msn.com by Friday, June 28 if you are interested in attending

Submitted by Marge Hanna Zeig

ALL PARISH PICNIC Date: Sunday, June 9Time: After the 10:15 serviceWhere: COHS

Our annual early summer barbeque follows the 10:15 AM service. We will provide hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill. Please bring a side dish, salad, fruit, dessert or beverage to share!

Volunteers are also needed to organize, set up the picnic and clean up afterwards. Please contact Kathy Clipp. Further details to follow.

Submitted by Kathy Clipp

Photo source: https://psftickets.desales.edu/TheatreManager/2/tmEvent/tmEvent837.html

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SUMMER CAMP COLLECTIONDONATIONS REQUESTED BY JULY 5

Through one of my fellow Deacons, I have been in contact with Lauren Gibson, a Registered Nurse from the Hospital of Pennsylvania, Neuro ICU. She takes young people each year from the Free Church of St. John, a small Episcopal mission church in Philadel-phia, to a summer camp in Romeo, Michigan (name unknown). (This camp was a part of Lauren’s life as a child.) She usually takes five to eight children to this camp. So far, a 5-year-old girl, 11-year-old boy, 15-year-old boy and 17-year-old girl are confirmed for this trip.

This special trip has been a part of their mis-sion for six years. The children have formed life-long friendships with fellow campers. Lauren writes about the benefits of this camp-ing experience: “While at camp, it has been amazing to see how kids’ walls fall down and they are able to just run around and be kids. From one kid comment-ing that it is so nice to not have their stuff

stolen, even though their dorm door is never locked, to another kid saying it’s nice not having people leer-ing at you from the street. It is always interesting the things that kids bring up for what makes them feel safe at camp”.

Would you be willing to donate items? This year’s camp dates are July 26 to August 4. Below is the list of the goods they will need for this life-changing experience:

• 5 sleeping bags• light weight blankets• 5 duffle bags (medium sized) • toiletries such as deodorant, toothbrushes, tooth-

paste, tampons/pads, hair ties, small body wash shampoo and conditioner, sun screen and aloe

Please drop off donations by July 5 in a box in the Narthex or place larger items in my office. If you wish to make a monetary donation, please make checks out to the Free Church of St. John, put it in an en-velope in my mailbox #93 (designated Deacon). The monies will be used for gas, tolls, clothing bought at the Salvation Army in Michigan and camp registra-tion.

Thank you for your consideration in helping these young people experience a fun-filled, safe, and mem-orable camping experience. Please contact me with any questions.

Submitted by Deacon Johnine Byrer

SHOPPING FOR GRADS, DADS, OR FOR THE FUN OF IT AMAZON.COM THROUGH COHS WEBSITE VS AMAZON SMILE – IMPORTANT NEWS

Is shopping on your mind??? If yes, please buy your gifts through the Amazon link at the COHS webpage.

Thanks to all Amazon.com customers who initiate their product, book, or media search through the widget on the COHS Webpage (scroll down to the bottom of the home page)! Whenever you do this, the church receives a 3-6% commission from your purchase, without you paying a cent more! This generates almost $1000 a year which helps us to keep our computers, printers, and sound system working.

Some of you have received a note to enroll in Amazon SMILE – and to designate Church of the Holy Spirit as your benefiting charity. This program competes with our Amazon Affiliate program and contributes only 0.5% to the church for your purchase dollar – substantially less than going through our webpage portal. Consider the following example: If you purchased $100 through Amazon and originated the purchase through the COHS website, the church would receive $3.00-6.00 as a donation. BUT – if you use the Amazon SMILE program, the church only receives $0.50! So, it is well worth it for you to make it a habit of going to the COHS website to originate your search and purchase!

Image source: pixabay.com

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So, anytime you are thinking about buying a product, book, or piece of media through Amazon.com, please start at the COHS Webpage. Click on the green and yellow amazon.com image at the bottom of the webpage! You’ll be directed to the Amazon home page where you can shop to your heart’s content – knowing you are also supporting COHS! All purchases you make through your shopping session will count toward the commission/donation that COHS receives.

NOTE: If you can’t see an image like the one pictured here, you may have ad blocking software installed on your browser which you will need to turn off to see the image and link.

Submitted by Marc Andonian

GAY PRIDE MONTHEXPANDING THE LGBT ELECTORAL PRESENCE AND EPISCOPALIAN INCLUSION

Did you know Pride Month (or Gay Pride Month) “commemorates the events of June 1969 and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for LGBT Americans”?1.

Pride Month is “the positive stance against discrimination and violence toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people to promote their self-affirmation, dignity, equality rights, increase their visibility as a social group, build community, and celebrate sexual diversity and gender variance. Pride, as opposed to shame and social stigma, is the predominant outlook that bolsters most LGBT rights movements throughout the world. Pride has lent its name to LGBT-themed organizations, institutes, foundations, book titles, periodicals, and even a cable TV station and the Pride Library…Some pride events

include LGBT pride parades and marches, rallies, commemorations, community days, dance parties, and large festivals.”2

Increasing Visibility in Political OfficeAn increased number of LGBT individuals are running for or have been elected to political office at the local, state, and national and international level.3-5 One Wikipedia article extensively lists the first LGBT holders of political offices in the United States. In summary,

• “All 50 states have been served by openly LGBT elected politicians in some capacity.

• 46 states have elected openly LGBT politicians to one or both houses of their state legislature.

• There has been one openly bisexual state gover-nor (Kate Brown);

• One state governor (Jim McGreevey) has come out as gay just before resigning from office, and one openly gay man (Jared Polis), is governor.

• No openly LGBT person has served as president or vice president of the United States, nor has an openly gay person ever served on the Supreme Court of the United States. However, there is speculation that James Buchanan may have been gay or bisexual.”4

It’s possible the last bullet point may change. On April 14, 2019, Mayor Pete Buttigieg (South Bend, Indiana) announced he was running for President of the United States. Why is this significant? Because he made history as the first openly gay man to do so. What is his background? He is “the son of two Notre Dame University professors, attended Harvard; went on to become a Rhodes Scholar; did a stint at the consulting firm McKinsey & Co.; was elected as the mayor of South Bend at the age of 29; took a leave of absence during his first term to serve in Afghanistan as a naval intelligence officer; came out as gay in a column in his local newspaper a few months before his re-election; was re-elected with nearly 80 percent of the vote; married his partner Chasten in a church ceremony that was live-streamed on the Internet; and wrote a best-selling book”6

Impressive accomplishments to date. At 37, if he wins, he would be the youngest and first openly gay President.6 By the way, did you know Pete Buttigieg is also an Episcopalian?

The Episcopal Church and LGBT The next logical question is “what is the Episcopal

Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gay_flag_8.svg

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Church’s position on being LGBT”? “In 1976, the General Convention of the Episcopal Church declared that ‘homosexual persons are children of God who have a full and equal claim with all other persons upon the love, acceptance, and pastoral concern and care of the Church’ (1976-A069). Since then, faithful Episcopalians have been working toward a greater understanding and radical inclusion of all of God’s children. Along the way, The Episcopal Church has garnered a lot of attention, but with the help of organizations such as Integrity USA, the church has continued its work toward full inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Episcopalians. In 2003, the first openly gay bishop (Gene Robinson7) was consecrated; in 2009, General Convention resolved that God’s call is open to all; in 2012, a provisional rite of blessing for same-gender relationships was authorized, and discrimination against transgender persons in the ordination process was officially prohibited; and in 2015, the canons of the church were changed to make the rite of marriage available to all people, regardless of gender.”8

Church of the Holy Spirit and LGBT At a local level, the spirit of the General Convention’s 1976 declaration has been incorporated into our Mission Statement. “Church of the Holy Spirit strives to build a spiritual community that fosters welcome and seeks truth in love. We are committed to acceptance, honesty, joy, and adventure as we follow Jesus Christ. Caring and compassion run deep in this church. Through worship, shared ministries and prayer we strive to know and express God’s message in Christ through the Holy Spirit in ourselves, our communities, and our world.”9

At COHS, members of the LGBT community are welcome and encouraged to participate fully in the life of the church. 1 https://www.loc.gov/law/help/commemorative-observations/pride.php 2 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gay_pride 3 https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/growing-number-lgbtq-candidates-seek-political-office-2018-n841961 4 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_first_LGBT_holders_of_political_offices_in_the_United_States (5/6/19)5 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_first_LGBT_holders_of_political_offices (US and International, 4/25/19)6 https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2020-election/pete-buttigieg-officially-announces-2020-presidential-campaign-n994046 7 https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?story-Id=4210781

8 https://www.episcopalchurch.org/page/lgbtchurch9 COHS Mission Statement, http://www.churchoftheholyspirit.net/

Submitted by Louise Beebe

MEET OUR RETIRED PRIESTSA WELCOMING PARISH FOR RETIRED AND NON-PAROCHIAL PRIESTSThis is the second installment to highlight autobiographies of the remarkable retired and non-parochial clergy who continue to serve Jesus through worship, prayer, and service at COHS as well as to recognize their families who are an essential part of supporting their ministry.

We are so grateful for their presence, prayers, and participation in the life of this faith community. Rev. Kathy is particularly thankful for their collegial support and willingness to offer their gifts of ministry in creative ways.

Submitted by Rev. Kathy, Louise Beebe and Mary-anne Swartz

THE REV. ROBERT H. COBLE The Rev. Robert H. Coble is a retired priest who has been worshipping at COHS since 2009. He grew up in Lebanon, PA and was the youngest of three children born to John and Pauline Coble. His brother, the Rev. John R. Coble, is a retired priest living in Bethlehem, PA. Bob, as he likes to

be called, is married to Bobbi Coble and this July the couple

will celebrate their 40th anniversary! They have been residents of the Peter Becker Community since 2009 and have been blessed with three children, several grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Following graduation from High School in 1962, Bob attended the Reading School of Business for one year. In 1967, he graduated from Salem University, Salem, West Virginia with a BA in Human Relations. He earned his Master of Divinity degree from the

Permission granted by Universal Church Directories

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former Philadelphia Divinity School in May of 1970. Following ordination as a Deacon, he did a one-year Internship at Trinity Church, Easton, PA. After ordination as a priest, he was elected as the first Assistant at Trinity Church. In the spring of 1972, he was called to be the Rector of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Norwood, PA where he served for 7 years. While at St. Stephen’s, Bob and members of the parish were instrumental in founding a Christian Preschool which is still serving children to this day. In December 1978, he was called to be Rector of All Saints’ Episcopal Church in Norristown, PA, where he served for 30 years. He and parish members were instrumental in opening All Saints’ Christian Preschool which served children for seventeen years and the West-End Computer Lab which continues to serve the Norristown community. Over the years, he helped coordinate an extensive restoration of their beautiful Rectory, Sanctuary, Bell Tower, and Parish Hall.

At COHS, Bob has been active with the Building Committee and doing clergy supply when needed. He has led several study groups and offers luncheons for new members to learn more about COHS and the faith and practices of the Episcopal Church. At the Peter Becker Community, he served for three years as the Resident Representative to the Board of Directors, and then four years as Vice-President and President of the Residential Living Association. His hobby is woodworking and he has made furniture, toys, wooden boxes and bowls, and lots of Nativity sets.

Submitted by Rev. Robert Coble

COHS Photo Round-UpSunday May 12, 2019 - Bishop’s Visit/Confirmation, Recpetions and EfM Graduates with

The Rt. Rev. Rodney Michel, Assisting Bishop Confirmands: Jamie A., Gavin A., Rylee B., Allyson B., Emily B., Samuel D., Margaret D., Jakob F., Liliana

G., Emma G., Camden H., Seth H., Allison I., Elizabeth J., Angelina M., Logan S., Camille S.

Receptions: Andrea Banta, Doug Eschbach, Kelly and Kent Lloyd, Eileen McQuirns, Jimmy Roger Stormant, Shirley Zagorski, Debbie Work.

EfM graduates: Jack Anderson, David Boorse, Margaret Curry, Chris Detweiler, Jean Fairfield, Eric Frankhouser, Joyce Hunsberger, Richard Miller, Barry Norris.

- CLICK HERE for more photos!

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Saturday, May 18, 2019 COHS Annual Fair Day And Pie Festival

- CLICK HERE for more photos!

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Yoga (no Yoga in August - start again after Labor Day)Monday evenings 7:00 PM, Parish Hall

Education for Ministry (September - June) (EfM, or Exploring Faith Matters) Wednesdays at 9:30 AMThursdays 3:00 PM and 6:30 PM

COHS Centering PrayerWednesdays 4-5:00 PMEric Frankhouser's Home

Choirs and Handbells (September - June)Wednesdays4:30-5:15 PM Cherub Choir Grades K-24:30-5:30 PM St. Nicholas Choir, Grades 3-54:30-6:00 PM St. Cecilia Choir, Grades 6 & up6:00-7:00 PM Adult Handbell Choir7:30-9:00 PM Adult Choir

Girls' Friendly Society (September - June) Wednesdays 6:30-7:30 PM

Al-Anon MeetingsFridays 10:00-11:00 AM

T’ai Chi ClassesSaturdays 8:30-10:00 AM (Intermediate) 10:00-11:30 AM (Beginners)Parish Hall

BI-WEEKLYBible Study and Discussion & Brown Bag Lunch Second and Fourth Tuesdays 12:00-1:30 PM, Parish Hall

MONTHLYSpiritual Friends Meditation Group First Monday evenings: 7:00-9:00 PMHobie Simm’s Office

Men's Spiritual Growth Group First Thursdays, 7:00 PM, Eric Frankhouser's home

First Friday Adult Faith ForumFirst Fridays, Pot Luck at 6:00 PM, Movie at 6:30 PM, Parish Hall

COHS MISSION STATEMENTChurch of the Holy Spirit strives to build a spiritual community that fosters welcome and seeks truth in love. We are committed to acceptance, honesty, joy, and adventure as we follow Jesus Christ. Caring and compassion run deep in this church. Through worship, shared ministries and prayer we strive to know and express God’s message in Christ through the Holy Spirit in ourselves, our communities, and our world.

CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 2871 BARNDT ROAD, PO BOX 575, HARLEYSVILLE, PA 19438 • 215-234-8020

www.churchoftheholyspirit.us

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