Behind the Scenes
While summer is a time for rest and rejuvenation, much is happening at All
Saints’ as we continue to move forward on several fronts. While space
doesn’t allow a detailed report on all our activities, projects and
planning, please allow me to give you a brief report on some of the work we
have started.
With the new roof now finished, other repair work to the church has begun.
Over the next two or so weeks, fascias and window treatments will be
replaced and repaired and other work undertaken. Remember: please watch your
step as construction continues! Preliminary evaluation of items needing
attention in and around the chapel has also begun. Thanks to the Cathy
Fitzpatrick, our Jr. Warden, and the Property Committee (Betty Lee Marshall,
chair) for moving these projects forward.
The Organ Task Force, chaired by Lloyd Gray, has also commenced its work of
evaluating the present condition of our 58+ year old organ and then
developing a detailed plan of renovation for the instrument. Jessica Nelson
and I will be working closely with this task force. Further details about
this project will be announced later in the year.
Wayne Averett is chairing the Columbarium Task Force. He and his committee
are in “full speed ahead” mode as they work on design options and the
preparation of policy documents. We hope to complete “phase one” of the
columbarium by the time Bishop Gray visits the parish on November 7.
Your vestry has completed the first part of a mutual ministry review process
which is being facilitated by the Rev. Canon David Johnson. David will
present his report at the vestry meeting on June 14th. After we complete our
study of the report, I hope to launch a months-long top to bottom review of
key areas of our parish life. This process will focus on congregational
health and success and how All Saints’ might broaden its reach to new
constituencies, new needs and new opportunities for ministry. You will be
hearing much more about this exciting project in the coming weeks.
As always, don’t hesitate to write, call or stop by for a visit. I’d like
for you to share your hopes, dreams, ideas and/or concerns with me.
Peace, Paul+
A Note From Lyn Phillips-Gaines
Hello
All Saints’!
Beginning June 13, you will see my smiling face around your church. I will
be trying to learn as much as possible about All Saints’. From what I have
observed, both from my recent visit and from reading your website, God is
using you in many ways in your community. I am excited to be joining you.
For the past two years, I have been in the School for the Diaconate. Many
people have a lot of questions about what a deacon is and what a deacon
does.
The order of the Deacons actually predates The Council of Nicea. At The
Council of Nicea, the church clearly identified three distinct orders of
ministry which are still in place today: Bishops, Priests and Deacons. Each
order is distinct; however, confusion is created because our tradition
recognizes two separate orders of deacon: transitional deacons and
vocational deacons. The transitional deacon is the ordination allowing a
postulate for the priesthood to advance to ordained clergy before becoming
fully a priest. This is NOT what I am studying to become.
I hope to be ordained to the latter order, a vocational deacon. Please note
that this ministry is not “priest light.” The sacred order of deacons is a
full and equal order. My call is to serve the marginalized, those who are
the poor, weak, lonely, sick and incarcerated. As such, I will be
challenging each of you to examine your call from God to “seek and serve
Christ in all persons.” Deacons serve directly under the Bishop and are
placed at his discretion.
Deacons are not paid so I will continue to work in the world as a certified
financial planner in Starkville. In the fall, I will resume my classes,
traveling every other Friday/Saturday to Jackson. Please pray for me and for
my family.
I look forward to meeting each and every one of you.
Sincerely, Lynn
During her time at All Saints’, Lynn’s email address will be
lynn@allsaintstupelo.org
