the messenger, november 2012

The MessengerGrace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Volume 59, No. 11 November 2012

What’s Inside?

•Grand Old Bazaar•Bishop’s Annual Visit•Annual Parish Meeting•Thanksgiving

Inside This Issue20-30@GSL ................................................... 539’ers ........................................................... 5Altar Flowers................................................ 15Annual Parish Meeting/Vestry Elections ........12-14Athletics ...................................................... 11Baptism Date ............................................... 15Bygone Days ................................................. 5Christian Education ...................................... 8-9Diocesan Convention ....................................... 5EYC News .................................................... 11From the Rector ............................................. 3Grand Old Bazaar .......................................... 4Looking Towards Sunday ............................... 15Member News .............................................. 15Memorials/Honorariums................................. 15Music News.................................................... 7Needlework Guild ........................................... 9Outreach Ministries ......................................... 6Pastoral Care Corner ....................................... 7School News ................................................ 10

To download the November calendar, go to:gracestlukes.org/uploads/files/calendar/november12.pdf

Cover: The GSL Angels at the Church Health Center 5K/10K race on October 20.

2 | www.gracestlukes.org

Sunday Service Times8:00 am Holy Eucharist8:45 am Breakfast9:30 am Christian Education 10:30 am Holy Eucharist5:30 pm Holy EucharistNursery available for all services except the 5:30 pm

service.

Office Hours8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday–Friday

StaffThe Rev. Richard Lawson, RectorThe Rev. Gayle McCarty, Associate RectorFr. Joseph Wallace-Williams, Associate RectorChristi Authement, Activities & Athletics Dir.Beulah Boone, SextonBeth Claybrook, Financial AssistantWesley Emerson, Organist/ChoirmasterSharon Campbell, Interim Nursery/PDO Dir.Connie Johns, Membership & NewcomersEva Loftin, Assistant Director of NurseryCourtney Oliver, Youth MinisterLucy Owens, Communications DirectorHarriet Roberts, Christian Education DirectorDebbie Smith, Music AssociateLinda Stine, Parish Administrator

2012 Vestry Sandy Baker, John Baur, Antoinette Cheney, Ginger Collier, Jim Greer, Sidney Hickey, Steven Hoover, Candy Jefcoat, Bheki Khumalo, Allison King, Stinson Liles, Lucius McGehee, Catherine Morehead, Linda Niell, Pete Shearon, Doug Smith, Nicki Soulé, Bruce Williams, and Hal Wright.

Vestry and Executive Committee The vestry meets the third Tuesday of each month in Trezevant Hall. The Executive Com-mittee meets the Thursday before vestry at 5:30 pm in the old school science lab on the 3rd floor of the Evans Building. These meetings are open to the parish. Vestry members are also available to convey matters of importance from parishio-ners to the vestry. Watch your eNews and eMessenger for the links to the vestry minutes. To be added to the eNews/eMessenger distribution lists, contact Lucy Owens, [email protected]. Vestry email: [email protected]

Messenger DeadlineThe deadline for the December issue of The Messenger is 9 am, Nov. 15! Contact Lucy at 272-7425 or [email protected] with any questions.

Support Groups at GSLWeight Watchers: Mondays, Weigh-in at noon,

Meeting from 12:20–12:40AA meetings: Tuesdays, 6:30 pm

Narcotics Anonymous: Sundays, 8 pm

Al Anon: Thursdays, 10:30 am

Suicide Anonymous: Wednesdays, 7:30 pm

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous: Mondays & Thursdays, 8 pm

The Messenger | November 2012 | 3

Diocesan Convention will be held on November 15-17 at Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church & School. At the invitation of our

bishop, Don Johnson, our diocese will gather for prayer and discernment, as we do annually. Most of our meetings will be in the Anchor Center, but the liturgies, of course, will take place in the Church.

The Convention is also the legislative body of the Diocese. Elected lay representatives and clergy from each parish and mission in the Diocese attend as delegates. GSL’s lay delegates include Sandy Baker, Sidney Hickey, Allison King, and Bruce Williams. During the Convention, various diocesan officers are elected, and other key diocesan leadership positions are either elected or appointed as provided for by Canons. The Convention also adopts the annual budget for the Diocese and considers as a body other matters that relate to the mission and operation of the Diocese.

More important than legislation are the relationships that are are enjoyed and developed at Convention. With that in mind, our chair for Convention, Holley McGehee, has worked faithfully and creatively to host the Diocese in an event that reflects the joy of GSL and the feel of Midtown. For example, GSL parishioner Baylor Stovall is the creative force behind our Friday evening dinner and party on the grounds of the church, which will include local food and libations, as well as the music of 2 Mule Plow (a Memphis band whose music is a fusion of blues and bluegrass). On the Saturday morning, our parishioner Dan Conoway will offer a tour of the stained glass windows in the church, chapel, and Trezevant, and tell a few stories about our parish’s colorful history.

Music will also be in the air of the Church, as Wesley Emerson and the parish choir are preparing for both Evensong and Eucharist. The theme for the Convention is “We’ve A Story to Tell,” and this year’s keynote speaker is the Rt. Rev. John McKee “Kee” Sloan, Bishop of the Diocese of Alabama. I know Bishop Sloan to be one of the great storytellers of the Episcopal Church. I cannot wait to hear him preach and our parish choir sing.

Most importantly, I want to thank Holley, Baylor, Wesley, and all of our volunteers for Convention. All of them are representing GSL with a grace and joy that are fruits of the Holy Spirit.

The Reverend Richard Lawson

From the Rector: 2012 Diocesan Convention@GSL

November @ GSL!

All Saints’ Sunday: On Nov. 4, guest speaker, the Rev. Sam Portaro, will lead the Rector’s Forum (9:30 am). Holy Baptism at the 10:30 am service.

Grand Old Bazaar: Thursday, Nov. 8, from 10 am-2 pm, lunch from 11:30 til 1

Bishop’s Annual Visit: Sunday, Nov. 11, the Rt. Rev. Don Johnson will make his annual visit to GSL and confirm adults and youth at the 10:30 service. He will also lead the Rector’s Forum (9:30 am). Reception following the service.

Annual Parish Meeting and Vestry Elections: Nov. 18 beginning at 9:15 am

Thanksgiving Day: Join us for the 10:30 am service as we celebrate the birthday of Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.


Join us for the 72nd Grand Old BazaarThursday, November 8

10 am to 2 pm

in Trezevant Hall

Delicious light lunch $7.0011:30 am to 1 pm

Elegant Handmade Items · TreasuresBooks · Baked & Canned Goods · Artwork

Handmade & Costume Jewelry

Come browse, buy, eat lunch & have a good time.

Support the ministry of the Ladies of the Bazaar House

and help raise funds for charitable organizations.


20-30@GSL

Connecting for Food, Fun and FellowshipSunday Nov. 4, immediately after the 10:30 service, all young adults are invited to join 20-30@GSL at the Beauty Shop for brunch. 20-30@GSL is a great place for both newcomers and GSL members to meet and enjoy each other’s company

over food and a drink, all paid for by GSL. So make sure to join 20-30@GSL on November 4 at the Beauty Shop. To be added to the evite please email [email protected].

The Brilliance of Tiffany (Nov. 9):

Lamps from the Neustadt CollectionWe will gather at 11:30 am on Friday, Nov. 9, for wine, cheese and casual conversation with a light lunch at noon for only $6.00. Reservations to Lucy by noon Wednesday, Nov. 7. ([email protected] or 272-7425)

Our program will serve as a precursor to Dan Conaway’s pre-sentation of our own Tiffany windows that will be offered during the Diocesan Convention here at Grace-St. Luke’s the following weekend.

As stated in the Commercial Appeal, “This is a rare chance to walk in the light of the gilded age of a great period of American History.” Our own S.D. Brandon will give the Tiffany lamp presentation.

If you cannot join us for lunch, all are welcome to the program that will start about 1 pm and last about 30 to 40 minutes.Looking forward to seeing you there. Mary Virginia Rogers

The Third Thursday Dinner will not meet in November because of the

Diocesan Convention

The next First Friday Fellowship will meet Nov. 2, 6:30 pm, at Interim on Sanderlin. An evite will be sent out as usual for the

November FFF; however, if you have not been on the list in the past and would like to be included, please email Kim Weiss at [email protected] to be added.

First Friday Fellowship is a place where newcomers and newly involved parishioners can connect for fun and fellowship. We plan to mix and mingle for lively conversation, libations, and dinner.

For those needing childcare, the church nursery will be available from 6–10 pm for infants to age 9 at the affordable price of $15 total for one child, $17 for two, or $20 for three or more (per family).

First Friday Fellowship

Would you like to volunteer for the Diocesan Convention

to be held at GSL in November?

The 31st Annual Diocesan Convention will be held at Grace-St. Luke’s on Thursday, Nov. 15, through Saturday, Nov. 17. This is an opportunity for our community to share the hospitality and warmth we experience on a regular basis. We need lots of help to make this event a success. If you have a few hours you can contribute to help with set-up, registration, hospitality or crowd control on those November dates, we would be most grateful! Please contact Holley McGehee at [email protected] or 327-0980 and we will find a way for you to be involved.

NEWS OF BYGONE DAYS50 years ago (1962): CONFIRMATION SUNDAY -It is a significant moment in the life of the Parish when we receive into full communicant status those who have received the Laying on of Hands. Through these new members upon whom God has poured this special grace, the Church receives added strength and vitality. Alert and dedicated young people, mature and thoughtful adults - they all bring to us varied talents, potentialities, and proven witness for Christ. They bear witness to Him when on Sunday they respond affirmatively to the question, “Do ye promise to follow Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?” C. Brinkley Morton

25 years ago (1987): THE BAZAAR WAS GRAND -The items for sale were fantastic, the food was delicious and the proceeds are rolling in. The total now is over $9,000 and the money is still being collected.

mailto:[email protected]



Outreach NewsThe Rev. Gayle McCarty, Associate Rector

Service OpportunityOur own Judy Douglass invites all at GSL to join her in volunteering at Streets Ministries!

Streets Ministries was founded by Ken Bennett in 1987 and today is a thriving and dynamic outreach to hundreds of students with facilities and programs on the campuses of local schools in both the Downtown and Graham Heights communities of Memphis. The mission of Streets is to serve impoverished youth in the Memphis metropolitan area by unconditionally representing the Good News of Jesus Christ in word and deed in such a way that underserved adolescents have the opportunity to see, hear, and respond to the Good News of the Gospel, and to be empowered to live a life of obedience to God. Streets provides a safe haven for students to come and hang out after school, a staff who loves the students unconditionally, and programming to meet the specific needs of each student. If you are interested in learning more about Streets and volunteer opportunities please email [email protected] or call 525-7380. You may also contact Judy Douglass at 458-0131 or check out www.streetministries.org for more info!

OUTREACH CALENDAR

Ongoing NetsforLife Campaign; Contacts: Betty Johnson: [email protected] Rinnie Wood: [email protected] Debbie McCanless: [email protected] The Rev. Gayle McCarty: [email protected]

Nov. 11 Jazz,Pasta&MorePartybenefitingtheSamaritan Counseling Centers at Botanic Garden; 5-8 pm; Reservations: [email protected] or 729-3900.

Dec. 2 Angel Tree Adoption Contacts: Sandra Ireland: [email protected] and Debbie McCanless: [email protected]

Dec. 9 Angel Tree Collection

Dec.18 Angel Tree Party 3:30–5:00 pm, Caritas Village


GSL Annual Angel Tree

Can Angels fly? Of course they can, especially if they are Angels benefiting the Peacemakers Youth Program at Caritas Village!

Please help all the Angels fly off the tree Dec. 2, 30 minutes before and after each service.

The Angel tree will be in the southeast corner of Trezevant Hall with four choices of Angels: an Angel per child with three wishes for gifts, an Angel per child for a stocking filled with goodies, Angels for books, and Angels for Christmas party food.

A volunteer will record your name, phone number and the name of the Angel or food item chosen. Please do not take an Angel without having the adoption recorded; we do not want any lost Angels. Helpful instructions will be provided. No monetary donations please.

Collection date is one Sunday only, Dec. 9, 30 minutes before and after each service. All are welcome to the Christmas party, Tuesday, Dec. 18, 3:30 to 5:00 pm at the Caritas Village located at 2509 Harvard Ave.

For more information please call Debbie McCanless: 490-3988 or Sandra Ireland: 274-3009

As Thanksgiving Day approaches, let us reclaim domestic piety via creating a new personal or family tradition; to wit: writing a Thanksgiving Day prayer.

Walter Rauschensbusch, Baptist preacher and great theologian, known as “the father of the social gospel in America,” wrote the prayer provided that his family still prays almost a century later.

For what are you and/or your family thankful? Hopefully, the discussion that ensues and the crafting of a prayer will bring to light that which resides in our hearts. May our gratitude for God’s grace and gifts be the primary focus of Thanksgiving Day and every day.

Pastoral Care CornerThe Rev. Gayle McCarty, Associate Rector


Thanksgiving Day Prayer by Walter Rauschenbusch (1861–1918)O God, we thank you for this earth, our home;for the wide sky and the blessed sun, for the salt sea and the running water, for the everlasting hills and the never-resting winds, for trees and the common grass underfoot.We thank you for our senses by which we hear the songs of birds,and see the splendor of the summer fields, and taste of the autumn fruits, and rejoice in the feel of the snow, and smell the breath of the spring.Grant us a heart wide open to all this beauty; and save our souls from being so blind that we pass unseeing when even the common thornbush is aflame with your glory, O God our creator, Who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen. From Eerdman’s Book of Famous Prayers

Music Ministry NewsWesley Emerson, Organist/Choirmaster

Thanks to all who helped Fill the Freezer! Many meals were collected to take to those who are newly home from the hospital,

who are grieving the loss of a loved one, or who recently had a baby.

St. Cecilia Choir sang at the 10:30 service on October 21. Mr. Wesley and twins, Parker and Cable, at the organ console.


Christian EducationHarriet Roberts, Director of Christian Education

Bring your football: Somebody is bound to go long!

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me,and do not hinder them,

for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Not long ago, I was standing in the nave tending to some housekeeping matter or other, and a young boy was walking toward the transept with one of his friends. From the back I could see them as they slowly made their way to the west door. They were joyful. But, they were being respectful—if not actually reverent—and they were talking to each other with quiet voices. I observed that they were very comfortable with their surroundings. Then, one of them broke away and started to run. The other one waited a second or two, and then he deployed a football over the pews and into the out-stretched hands of the other. I did not need to be a football fan to know that it was a nice throw and a spectacular catch.

In an instant, I caught up to them. “Gentlemen, I’ll have that ball now please” I said in my most grown-up voice. I stated that balls belong outside, that I was going to give the ball to the ball-throwers mother, and that I was sure she would return it to him someday. Just before they took off to their Sunday school class I charged them to please remember to conduct themselves with decorum while in church. I went off with the ball in search of the quar-terback’s mom and—once I had it in my own hands—I noticed that it really did beg to be thrown.

After entrusting the football to the child’s mother I was asked by somebody who had witnessed the whole thing how I—The Director of Christian Education—felt about watching a child throw a football in church.

I laughed. I thought it was awesome!

Don’t get me wrong. I do not think that playing football in church is OK. It is not.

But, I loved what it meant.

I loved that we had two boys who are so comfortable in THEIR church that they thought throwing a football was OK. I am sure that they throw their football in their houses too: Probably right over their dining room tables and under their chandeliers. And, I am sure their mothers (as opposed to their mother-figure) deal out some swift discipline!

I thought it was an indication that ours is a marvelous, nor-mal, happy, vibrant family.

We have children at our church: Lots of them. And, that is a wonderful thing. We have ‘Quiet Packs’ to help children manage themselves during church. And, my favorite thing to hear (even during the sermon) is a clipboard clatter to the ground. That means a child is present and busy with a ‘Quiet Pack’. That means we have a child listening and learning. That means we are growing.

They will wiggle, they will color, they will squirm, they will cry, they will fuss, and they will protest.

But, also they will recite, they will pray, they will memorize, they will celebrate, they will sing, and they will worship.

I don’t know when my own child stopped being a wiggler. But, now he sits—for the most part—like a pro.

So next time you hear a little wiggler protesting or crying or knocking a clipboard to the floor, remember what it means!

Remember that it is—actually—awesome.

I just adore that the Episcopal Church is so welcoming.

In fact, just bring your football and come on: Somebody is bound to go long! -by Harriet Roberts


Sunday Mornings, 9:30*-10:15 am

AdultsRector’s Forum:

Facilitator: The Reverend Richard LawsonAll ages are welcome to attend; Location: Trezevant Nov. 4: Remembering the Saints, Re-membering the Body The Rev. Sam A. Portaro will be the guest speaker All Saints’ Sunday. He is the author of seven books, including Brightest and Best. In these meditations on the lesser feasts and fasts of the church calendar Sam Portaro asks the question, “What do these saints and commemorations have to say to Christians today?” His answers are often surprising and always thought-provoking, with fresh insights into the lives and teachings of those who have gone before us in the Christian faith. Nov. 11: Q&A with Bishop JohnsonNov. 18: Annual Parish Meeting beginning at *9:15 am

Nov. 25: No class

Children and YouthNursery: Birth–24 Months

Location: Church Nursery

Little Lambs Pre-Atrium: 24 Months to Young ThreesLocation: Church Nursery

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd–Atrium IPre-K, JK and SK Location: Atrium I (Nursery)

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd–Atrium IIFirst, Second, and Third Grade Location: Atrium II (Nursery)

All Things New: Fourth and Fifth GradeLocation: McClure Hall

Rite 13: 6th–8th GradeLocation: Room 212

J2A: 9th–12th GradeLocation: The LoungeThe last confirmation class will be held on Nov. 7.

Meet in Rector’s Forum with Bishop Johnson on Nov. 11.

Other Sunday Morning Offerings Children’s Activity Table (during adult coffee hour)

Location: Room 212 or the Lobby of McClure Hall

REMINDER: There will be no Christian education classes on Sunday, Nov. 25, because of Thanksgiving. For questions, comments,

or thoughts about Christian education, please feel free to contact Harriet Rober ts at 272-7425, ext. 12, or [email protected].

Christian EducationHarriet Roberts, Director of Christian Education

The Wednesday evening class series will end on Nov. 7.Inquirers’ Class: On Nov. 7, Bishop Johnson will be in attendance and meet with the class AND the youth confirmation class in the Chancel.

A Little Peace & Quiet: Anglican Spirituality for Today (Chapel)

Bible Study: Food for the Journey (Trezevant Hall)

Grace-St. Luke’s Book Group (Room 212) -on Nov. 7, A Prayer for Owen Meaney by John Irving

Needlework Guild

Do you enjoy needlework or would you like to learn? Is your passion knitting, cross-stitch, embroidery, crewel embroidery, needlepoint,

quilting, smocking or tatting? If it is, grab your sewing things, or pick out a project and make plans to join other ladies (and ladies in training) on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 4–8 pm. Please bring a sack supper. You need to be 10 or older and want to spend some time visiting and stitching. There will be plenty of opportunity to share what you have made and admire what others have created. We will share skills and enjoy being together in Trezevant Hall.

If you need help selecting a project, with knowing what to bring, or if you would like to reserve a table for your larger project, please contact Harriet Roberts, [email protected], or Kim White, [email protected]. Beginners are welcome!



I want to begin by thanking the clergy and staff at GSL Church for all their support of our students and our events. I think Father Joseph’s blessing of the cross country team before their departure for state meet was one of the highlights of Celebration this year! We now have wrapped up our fall sports—football, volleyball, and cross country—so we can all turn our attention to our favorite winter sport: BASKETBALL! Hope you will all make plans to join us for what are sure to be some exciting games in the Anchor Gym this season.

Our first trimester also concludes this month, with exams for 7th and 8th grade students and an art show featuring work from 5th-8th grade students who have completed the first trimester arts block. The show runs Nov. 12-20 in the upper lobby of

News From GSL School Thor Kvande, Head of School

the Anchor Center, with an opening reception on Nov. 13 at 5:30 pm. Please join us! We also invite you to attend our annual Book Fair on Sunday, Nov. 18, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the Booksellers at Laurelwood. A portion of all proceeds will go back to the school, so come shop early for the holidays and help support GSL! Of course, we are also looking forward to helping host the Diocesan Convention on campus Nov. 16. This will be a school holiday. We also celebrate Grandparents Day on Tuesday, Nov. 20, with morning classroom visits for grandparents followed by our traditional Thanksgiving Chapel service, which is always a favorite. We will be closed Nov. 21-23 for break. Happy Thanksgiving!

Father Joseph blessed students (and a faculty member or two) before the cross country team departed for state meet competition in Knoxville.

Some of GSL’s summer art campers as well as our 6th grade students made hand-painted bowls this year for the upcoming Memphis Empty Bowls event to fight hunger in the Mid-South. Pictured here with project volunteers Sarah Ranson and Jaime Winton. For more information or to purchase tickets call 726-4104.

Sydney, Camille, Laura Beth, and Emma visited classrooms last month to collect pull tabs to benefit the Ronald McDonald House.

GSL students brought in more than 200 lbs of pull tabs. Way to go, Saints!


Sunday, November 04: All Saints’ Scavenger Hunt—a scavenger hunt throughout the church that will test brain and your church knowledge.

Sunday, November 11: EYC Art—we will be creating an original and unique piece of art to hang in the youth room.

Sunday, November 18: Thanksgiving Fest—wear your old clothes and prepare for a feast of the silly, gross, and messy! Both groups will meet from 5:30 to 7:30.

Sunday, November 25: No EYC—HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

EYC News and EventsCourtney Oliver, Youth Minister

EYC PARENTS

Contact Courtney at [email protected] to sign up to provide a dinner for the youth. THANK YOU to all parents who provided dinners during the month of October!!

Unless other wise noted, Jr. High EYC will be from 5–6:30 and Sr. High from 6–7:30 (dinner for both at 6:00) all month long. Meet in Room 212.

A Big THANK YOU to all of my 2012 Fall Soccer and Football Coaches

Soccer Coaches: Michael Axt, Dave Erickson, Hilary Chipley, Joe Carney, Matt Morice, Posey Cochrane, Cameron Kitchin, Gayle Berntson, Theresa Prather, Patrick Hough, Drew Mascolino, Johnny Norris, Cameron Taylor, Hugh Fraser, Joanne Jones, Randy Engel, Mitch James, Rick Neal, and David McLaughlin.

Football Coaches: Jon Lakey, Todd Brown, Patrick Hough, Chip Eason, Vernard Fisher, and Darrin Davidson.

Church AthleticsChristi Authment, Director

GSL Girls Soccer TeamGSL Saints vs. Woodland Warriors game


Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, Nov. 18

9:15 am in Trezevant Hall

In accordance with parish by-laws, your Vestry Nominating Committee is composed of members who will rotate off the vestry in December. Members include: Sandy Baker, John Baur, Jim Greer, Steven Hoover, Candy Jefcoat, Bheki Khumalo, and Lucius McGehee.

The committee has worked hard to inform the parish well in advance of the nomination process; solicit nominees starting in August, including self-nominations; and present a strong slate of candidates. The committee believes the nominees would be active vestry members with an eagerness to support the mission of Grace-St. Luke’s.

Five members will be elected at the annual meeting on November 18 to serve on your vestry for a three-year term. The five (5) persons receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected; provided however, that if there is a tie vote for the fifth (5th) position, on a second vote the person receiving the most votes is declared the winner. (GSL By-laws Article II, Section 3.)

The by-laws do provide for nominations from the floor of persons to serve on the vestry. If you wish to nominate a member of the church for the vestry, please receive his/her permission before nominating. Your nominee should be present at the meeting to be introduced. To serve on the vestry, a person must be a confirmed Communicant in Good Standing, as defined by Title I, Canon 17 of the Episcopal Church, who in the preceding year has received communion at least three times and been faithful in working, praying, and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God. In addition, one must be a member of Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, eighteen years of age, a giver of record, and not employed by the Parish, Diocese or Grace- St. Luke’s Episcopal School.

At the end of the three-year term for which elected, an incumbent shall become ineligible for re-election for three (3) years; provided however, said ineligibility in excess of one (1) year may be waived by a majority vote at the Annual Parish Meeting, and if for less than one (1) year, in addition to a majority vote at the Annual Meeting, a waiver from the Bishop must be obtained. GSL By-laws Article II, Section 3.

Grant Adams

My name is Grant Adams and I have been a member of Grace-St. Luke’s for over 12 years since

moving to Memphis from Montgomery, Alabama. I grew up as an Episcopalian in Louisiana. It is an honor to be considered for vestry nominations. Since joining GSL I have had a particular interest in serving the youth of our parish, and have served as the Acolyte Warden for over ten years. Highlights of my time spent with the youth include chap-eroning trips to the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. for West Tennessee Day and with our senior high youth on a mission trip to rebuild homes in the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. I also have had a wonderful opportunity to as-sist in teaching / leading confirmation class-es on Sunday mornings. I also enjoy serving as one of our vergers and on the Liturgy Committee.

I am fortunate to have gotten to know many of our members at the GSL Men’s Retreat at St. Columba as well as the Diosecean Men’s Retreat. And riding with the GSL Holy Rollers biking group has prepared me for the Matt Crow Tour de Mud Island.

I consider the congregation at Grace-St. Luke’s to be my family. I have made won-derful life long friends here. Our church has given me strength and support. I am proud to be an Episcopalian and even more so to be a Luker and would be honored to serve the vestry if elected.

A Prayer for our Election

Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on your church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose vestry members for this parish, that we may receive faithful leaders, who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Book of Common Prayer p. 818

Edith Wilkinson Heller

Edith Wilkinson Heller is a native Memphian with 4 generations attending

Grace-St Luke’s Episcopal Church. Bob and I live in a 100 year old Prairie house designed by Victor Dunkerly with our beloved rescue dog, Dudley. My University of Tennessee degrees led to management at J. C. Penny Company. Combining this with volunteer experience and interest in the environment, I merged the Keep America Beautiful system into the Memphis City Beautiful Commission in 1978. In 1983, I was tapped to form a state organization, Keep Tennessee Beautiful, by Governor Lamar Alexander. My thirty year career focused on community organization, litter prevention, recycling and beautifica-tion across Tennessee and national consult-ing. When I retired in 2010, Keep Tennessee Beautiful had 24 chapters, projects in all 95 counties, and over 150,000 volunteers. Retirement opened time for neglected inter-ests–gardening, reading, exercise, arts, crafts and afternoon naps.

Grace–St. Luke’s has enriched and been en-twined into my whole life. From teaching Sunday School to serving twice on the ves-try. My past activities include adult Christian education, Habitat housing, Festival of Arts in Religion, rebuilding trips for Katrina, co-founder of Canterbury Festival, Welcoming Committee, Fellowship Committee, Building and Grounds Committee, chair of Stewardship Committee twice, Community Gifts co-chair for Mission ’88 Capitol Campaign, Finance Committee, altar guild for the Chrismons tree and Easter pascal candle, and “Hot as Heller” champion of first annual Gumbo Cook-off. I am cur-rently attending the 8:00 service and par-ticipating in Pastoral Care team one, the Outreach Committee, 4th Sunday captain of More Than a Meal (since inception), and the Endowment Committee.

I am humbled to be asked to serve my church home and would work with an attitude of appreciation and servant leadership.


Dan PiggSome people will say that all Episcopal par-ishes are alike, but I can tell you from per-sonal experience at six different parishes

that they are not! When I arrived at Grace-St. Luke’s in 2003 and moved my letter of membership here in 2004, I was impressed by several things: the parish’s commitment to some of the most economically challenged people in Memphis through More Than a Meal; the parish’s commitment and history of engagement on the issues of social justice in keeping with our baptismal promise to “respect the dignity of every human being;” and the parish’s commitment to the dignity of worship in our Episcopal/Anglican tradition. I am happy to be part of a community that sees its mission as engaging in worship and study and then moving outward into the world “to know Christ and make Christ known.”

I’m a professor of English at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where I teach English, education, and religious studies. I have offered special courses at GSL and have served as a substitute teacher on occasion in the Rector’s Forum. Teaching is important to me person-ally, and according to Deuteronomy 6:7, instruction is vital to a continuing faith tradi-tion for children and adults. Our corporate strength is no greater than our commitment to educational formation.

On Sundays at GSL, you are likely to see me serving as a lector, as a verger, or as a Eucharistic visitor. What attracted me to the Episcopal Church roughly 25 years ago was our liturgy, “the work of the people of God.” Our gift to the Christian world is our liturgy. It has grown and changed over time, but one clear vision remains: liturgy sums up our experiences, thoughts, and prayers as a part of the body of Christ. We will attract others to our parish if we engage in thoughtful and creative worship.

Having once served on the vestry at Grace Church, Paris, TN, I am familiar with the work of a vestry member. Good leadership in a parish is vital to the economic, physical, and spiritual health of a parish. Such leadership requires thoughtful and prayerful engagement. A vestry demands a spirit of cooperative work among the clergy and lay people. I feel honored to have been asked to run for the vestry. If elected, I pledge to uphold traditions and to seek appropriate innovations at GSL, remembering that we are part of the Diocese of West Tennessee, the national Episcopal Church, and the wider Anglican communion.

Hal MedlingDear Fellow Parishioners: Allow me to introduce myself and offer some insight into my life, my experience and my relationship with

Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. My lovely wife Brenda and I share four grown children; Tara, Mark, Brandon and Matt. Tara and husband Tracy blessed us with twin 7 year-old grand girls, Mary Beth and Neely Rose. Brandon and his wife Kelly gave us Anniston Ruth last October. We have two furry chil-dren–dogs, “Sophie” Marie Grace and Gina “Lola” Brigida.

Brenda and I have been at GSL for eight years, and I have participated in the mens’ retreats, the Welcoming Committee, the usher corps and the Sunday morning breakfast cook team 1 –GO TEAM 1!!!

I have a BS degree from the University of Memphis and an MA in personnel management from Central Michigan University. After college in 1970, I entered the service and became a pilot. I continued flying and ultimately became an international airline captain. I am now a manager for the FAA exercising regulatory oversight of FedEx.

Education and experience have given me skill and courage, and I am not timid about being decisive. I have interpersonal, analytical and organizational skills. I am comfortable in a leadership role or as a follower. I am a good listener and try to hear the wisdom of others, trusting that their knowledge and perspective will make me wiser.

Brenda and I love this parish. It is beautiful place to practice our faith among strong believ-ers who care for each other. My most cherished experience at GSL is being the recipient of the blessings resulting from the quiet and prayerful intercession of a caring parish. I have been the beneficiary of the grace of a loving God.

I want to thank each of you for the opportunity to introduce myself, and I promise to serve you with prayerful dedication, responsibility and faith.

Debbie McCanlessHello, my name is Debbie McCanless and I am honored to be standing for the vestry. My first intro-

duction to Grace-St. Luke’s was through my son, Peter Dale. Peter (who is currently 25) attended Grace-St. Luke’s School from Miss Lee’s through the eighth grade. As a parent I took the opportunity to participate in some of the groups and book offerings, such as Practical Wisdom and the book study of The Powers that Be. One day Peter asked me why we didn’t go to his church.

After Peter’s question, he and I visited Grace-St. Luke’s one Sunday. Of course, Peter was familiar with the chapel services. I grew up in the Methodist tradition and attended a mid-town Methodist church so some things were familiar yet others quite different. I especially appreciated the weekly Eucharist. Due to the family weekend schedule, I started attending the 5:30 evening service. It felt like home to me. I like the intimacy and more contempla-tive nature of the service. But nothing beats the music on Sunday morning!

Attending regularly, I was confirmed May 29, 2003. I am a member of the altar guild, a lec-tor at the 5:30 service, chair of Outreach and on a Pastoral Care team. This year I was hon-ored to be asked to serve on the GSL School board and would like to continue to grow the bridge between the church and school. This is my second year to co-chair the annual Angel Tree drive. I am a 2007 graduate of the EfM program. Being part of the Pastoral Care ministry reveals how both I and those I touch are connected by God’s presence. As recent chair of Outreach, I see and experi-ence the love and generosity this parish has to offer.

Having spent more than 20 years as a clinical research nurse coordinator, I am currently working as a clinical research monitor at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I enjoy gardening, reading and experiencing God’s grace in this wonderful place in Midtown.

If given the opportunity to serve on the ves-try, I would take this responsibility seriously. I will strive to bring an open heart and mind and work with fellow parishioners as we con-tinue to make Grace St. Luke’s a place for all God’s people.

Please attend the Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, November 18, 9:15 am

in Trezevant Hall.


William King Self, Jr.

Thank you for the honor of being con-sidered for the vestry. My wife Judy and I

have called Grace St. Luke’s our church home since 1998, not long after our marriage. My involvement beyond just being a parishioner began with volunteering at the Canterbury Festival and getting to know people through several of the men’s retreats. I didn’t grow up in the Episcopal Church, but thanks to Judy’s journey through EfM, I’ve learned a lot about the church and church history, mostly by osmosis. I’m on a Crossmen team for breakfast, a frequent co-host of Third Thursday dinners, and a member of the Endowment Committee.

My strongest personal and professional in-terests lie in working with the elderly and persons with disabilities. I’m certified in the area of legal specialization called elder law. I do special needs planning for individuals with disabilities, and am a member of the Special Needs Alliance. I have served (and continue to serve) on boards, advisory com-mittees, and as a volunteer in activities related to these interests. Most of my legal practice over the past twenty years has been focused on these vulnerable populations, working to help them become more independent and able to live their lives with dignity. After rais-ing three wonderful daughters, it’s the most satisfying work I’ve ever done.

During the (many) years my daughters attend-ed St. Mary’s School, I served on the Board of Trustees. I enjoy fly fishing, ballet (watching), and music. I was a trustee of Opera Memphis for many years, serving a term as its chairman. A longtime resident of Central Gardens, I served on its board for two terms. I’m a mem-ber of Apperson Crump law firm.

It has been an honor to work on the Endowment Committee and to get a glimpse of the seriousness of purpose and dedication of the many church members working to help fulfill the mission of the church. These efforts have brought comfort to many in our church and to those all around us who need our help. If chosen, I’d be honored to continue in this effort as a member of the vestry.

Donna SandersI wish to introduce myself and express my gratitude to the Vestry Nominating Committee for asking me to stand for the

vestry. I have been privileged over the past twenty-plus years as a member of my be-loved Grace St. Luke’s to find many oppor-tunities to volunteer and share in the work of this wonderful church and school.

My husband, Jerry, and I attended an in-quirer’s class many moons ago and we were hooked. Jerry was baptized by Fr. Riddle as I was confirmed. We soon had a child, Christian, who was also baptized at GSL. A short time later, a priest by the name of John Baker asked if we would like to teach Sunday school to middle school children; what could we say but, “of course, that sounds like an exciting and fun proposition—only we’ve never taught Sunday school before!” Lack of experience never thwarted two enthusi-astic people who for the next fourteen plus years taught dozens of unforgettable and wonderfully challenging middle school and high school age children.

Other activities have led to honorary titles: namely “Posada Lady” (thank you, Chapman Morrow) and the “Cornbread Lady.” It has been 10 years since I became involved in two unique opportunities: La Posada and More Than a Meal.

My involvement did not end there: chaper-one for out of town children’s choir trips, head the school’s Booster Club, room moth-er, children’s education committee member, youth director search committee, parish re-treat planning, and flower delivery to those ailing and grieving GSL members.

My son, Christian, attended GSL for 9 years and is currently a senior at Memphis University School. My husband, Jerry, and I will celebrate 27 years of wedded bliss (and blisters) soon after this bio is published.

Professionally I am a nurse and for the past fourteen years my focus has been in cardiol-ogy (after many years in ICU, and as a man-ager and discharge planner as well).

If the parish calls, through the confidence of votes cast at the annual meeting, I will re-spectfully serve GSL as a new member of the hardworking vestry.

Cynthia Saatkamp

Andrew and I have been married and liv-ing in Central Gardens for 15 years. We joined

Grace-St. Luke’s six years ago after our twins, Bronwyn and Jackson, were born. I had grown up in a small Methodist church in Jackson, Miss., where all of the members watched me and my sisters grow up (and still continue to ask my parents about how “little Cindy” is doing.) That’s what we wanted for our own children, and we have definitely found it here, right in the neighborhood we love. I have served three years on the church Stewardship Committee and the twins have played soccer here since they were three years old. Since becoming parishioners we have also joined the GSL School family, where the twins are now proud first graders and I serve on the board of trustees. Seeing the crossover between the church and school is amazing, and I’m always excited to see someone from one side of GSL attend an event of the other side’s. It makes you realize how special the GSL community is, and since neither Andrew nor I have family in town, that’s important to us. Our church and school friends are our family, our support group, our network, our got-your-backs.

When I’m not somewhere on this block of Peabody, I’m downtown at Hemline, the mar-keting and advertising agency I co-founded nine years ago. I have been an active member of the Junior League of Memphis for 15 years, and currently serve on its board of directors. During that time I’ve volunteered with Hope House, St. Jude, Target House, Memphis City Schools, Dress for Success, and Girls Inc. I also serve on the board of the Midtown Memphis Development Corporation to ensure that the businesses and neighborhoods surrounding our school and church are prosperous, good for the community and help maintain our identity.

Vestry Members RemainingTerm ends 12/2013: Ginger Collier, Stinson Liles, Catherine Morehead, Linda Niell, Pete Shearon, Doug Smith, and Nicki Soulé

Term ends 12/2014: Antoinette Cheney, Sidney Hickey, Allison King, Bruce Williams, and Hal Wright


Looking Towards Sunday ~ November

Revised Common LectionaryTrack 2 Year B

The Sunday in the Octave of All Saints’ Day

November 4Isaiah 25:6-9 • Psalm 24

Revelation 21:1-6a • John 11:32-44

The Twenty-fourth Sunday after PentecostNovember 11

1 Kings 17:8-16 • Psalm 146Hebrews 9:24-28 • Mark 12:38-44

The Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost

November 18Daniel 12:1-3 • Psalm 16

Hebrews 10:11-14,19-25 • Mark 13:1-8

Thanksgiving DayNovember 22

Joel 2:21-27 • Psalm 1261 Timothy 2:1-7 • Matthew 6:25-33

The Last Sunday after Pentecost

November 25Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 • Psalm 93

Revelation 1:4b-8 • John 18:33-37

Membership News

Birth: October 6Jane Douglas McDonald, daughter of Julia & Doug McDonald

Marriage: October 20 Diana Hart Beazley and James Thomas Ervin, Jr.

Transfers InAvie Elizabeth Vaughan and Stella Caroline Vaughan from St. Mary’s Cathedral, Memphis

Transfers OutCharles and Jennifer Stanford and Holden Stanford to St. John’s, Memphis

Altar Gifts are offered in Loving Memory of

November 4 Beverly Powers Alexander, Alice M. Armstrong, and Pearl Rice Connally

November 11 Millicent Peyton, John Peyton, Claude Thompson, and Rick Long

November 18 James F. Humphreys, Sara W. Humphreys, and Eleanor Humphreys Grandjean

Thanksgiving Day Meriwhether Wesley Alvis, Jean Stewart Alvis, Dr. Charles L. Clarke, Jane Alvis Clarke, Charles Alvis Clarke, and William M. Wilkerson

November 25 Laura Lane Heathcott, Christine Harrell Stauber, Harvey Victor Stauber, Patricia Mary Hardy, Helen Price Boone, Harvey Victor Stauber, Jr., William Parker Halliday, Caroline Wilkinson Halliday, Charles B. Allen, Jr., Dorothy Reeve Allen, Charles B. Allen III, Joann Lockard Allen, Anne Pillow Halliday, and William Parker Halliday, Jr.

Memorials& Honoraria

Given in Honor ofDebbie & Larry Whitlock from Buddy Adams

Given in Memory ofGay C. Phillips from Bettye PittmanCatherine Adams Trouy from Janet and Shepherd TateRoane Waring Jr. from King and Judy Rogers

Holy Baptism Scheduled

Baptism is the entry point for The Episcopal Church for adults, children and infants. If you have not been baptized or would like to schedule a baptism, we are happy to make arrangements for you. The next date for baptism will be: • January 13 (Baptism of Our Lord)

For more information and to schedule a baptism, contact Connie Johns, 272-7425, ext. 15, or [email protected].

The LAY SERVICE SCHEDULE is posted on the GSL website at gracestlukes.org/uploads/files/november2012schedule.pdf


Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church1720 Peabody AvenueMemphis, Tennessee 38104-6124901-272-7425, 901-272-9833 (fax)[email protected], www.gracestlukes.org

The Messenger of Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (USPS 778-900)-pub-lished monthly by Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 1720 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38104. Periodicals postage paid at Memphis, TN. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 1720 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104, (901) 272-7425, email [email protected]. Lucy Owens, Editor.

Calendar HighlightsNovember 2 First Friday Fellowship @ InterimNovember 4 Rector’s Forum: The Rev. Sam Portaro Holy Baptism @ the 10:30 service 20-30@GSL @ the Beauty ShopNovember 8 Grand Old Bazaar: 10 am–2 pm

November 9 39’ers: The Brilliance of TiffanyNovember 11 Bishop’s Annual Visit

November 15 NO THIRD THURSDAYNovember 15-17 Diocesan Convention @ GSLNovember 18 Parish Meeting/Vestry ElectionsNovember 22 Thanksgiving Day service @ 10:30 am

November 25 NO CHRISTIAN ED. CLASSESDecember 2, 9 & 16 Dr. Mitzi Minor @ Rector’s Forum

Thanksgiving Day EucharistNovember 22 at 10:30 Am

Join us Thanksgiving morning as we worship together and give thanks for all of our many blessings. We will be treated to a full choir, brass and timpani. Thanksgiving Day also marks our “birthday” at GSL. Grace and St. Luke’s Churches joined for our first combined service on Thanksgiving Day, 1940. Read more about our founding at www.gracestlukes.org/events/thanksgiving-day-service/.

November calendar: www.gracestlukes.org/uploads/files/november2012calendar.pdf

the messenger, november 2012

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