St.

Paul's Episcopal Church

Lansing Michigan

St. Paul’s News

The Gift of Generosity Octoberber,
2007
By The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller

I n the opening
verses of Genesis,
the statement is made
often enough.
I believe, as does your Stewardship Committee,
that one of God’s greatest gifts is that of Gen-
Volume 32, Issue 8

Inside this issue:

that humanity is cre-
ated in the image of
God. Certainly that
The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller does not mean that
God looks like we do:
black or white, red or yellow, beautiful or hand-
some. It means that God has given us some of
the most cherished attributes of God’s personal-
ity or, perhaps more accurately, God’s essence.
What we do know about God’s image is that it
is given the name of love. Everything God has
done—like giving us Jesus—or will do, like pro-
viding a place in the kingdom of heaven, is
based on that love. But there are some addi-
tional qualities that perhaps we don’t identify
erosity. God is generous with us and in turn we
Calendar 13
are called to be generous with one another. Few
would argue the truth of that statement, but one Choir Schedule 9
of the things often pondered is why God does
what God does. Why for example is God lov- St. Paul’s News 6
ing and/or generous? Because it is right? Per-
haps because it keeps creation in balance? Be- Upcoming 2
cause God knows nothing else? Without being
Vestry News 7
presumptuous, I believe it is because it makes
God happy!
As we begin our Every Member Canvass this
year, I ask you to consider your level of gener-
osity. The Stewardship Committee has suggested
(Continued on page 12)

Vestry 2007: Never Too Busy For Welcoming

By Greg Wortley, Senior Warden

F all is certainly the season of “homecoming,” and the busyness of welcoming all “home” to St.
Paul’s is definitely all around us. Of the many events of this busy time of homecoming, how-
ever, three vestry and committee level happenings warrant special attention in regard to St. Paul’s
welcoming efforts. During the summer months, plans continued developing effective ways to com-
municate our welcoming presence and mission to the greater Lansing area. Building on the recent
initiatives of Stephanie Van Koevering’s 2007-08 Public Relations Plan and the ongoing work of
the Communications Committee, we are currently conversing with an additional outside resource—
Mark Doyle—whose professional specialty is assisting non-profit organizations in “advertising”
themselves to the community.
The Sundays of September truly welcomed us back to a myriad of opportunities for growth and
service at St. Paul’s. Libby Richardson and the Stewardship Committee built upon the “Sampler
Sunday” concept of previous years by organizing not just one, but a series of “Sampler Sundays.”
Throughout the four Sunday coffee hours in September we were all introduced and re-introduced
to the many, many ways in which we can individually and corporately be good stewards of our
lives—the many, many ways we can involve ourselves at St. Paul’s so as to grow in faith, under-
standing and service.
(Continued on page 12)
Page 2 Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities
St. Paul’s In Action
Ongoing Activities
• St. Aelred’s Guild, third Wednesday, 5:00 PM
• Book Cart, 2nd Sunday after 10 AM
• B&PW, Tuesday, October 9, 6 PM
• ECW, third Monday, 7 PM
• Family Night Dinner, Wednesdays, 5-6 PM
• 4 Fs, second and fourth Mondays, noon to 2 PM
• Infant/Toddler Group, 3rd Saturday, 10 AM-Noon
• St. Paul’s Library, open every Sunday
• Prayer Group, first Tuesday, 5:30 PM, Choir Re-
hearsal Room
• Men’s Breakfast, third Thursday, 7-8 AM, Hill Room
• Mid-Week Eucharist, Tuesdays, noon
This Month at St. Paul’s and Elsewhere
• Habitat Orientation, Wednesday, October 3 (or
10)
• Newcomer’s Classes, three Saturdays, October 6,
13 and 20, 9:30-11:30 AM
• ProActive Parenting, five Wednesdays beginning
October 10, 6:15 - 7:30 PM
• Crop Walk, Sunday, October 14
• The Gathering, Friday, October 19, 6:30-9 PM, at
the home of Julie & Mike Young
• Food Drive, October 19 – November 4
• Blood Drive, Saturday, October 20, 8 AM-2 PM
• Diocesan Convention Banquet, The Most Rev.
Katharine Jefferts Schori to speak, Friday, Octo-
ber 26
• Fruit & Greens Sale
Looking Ahead
• All Saints Day services, November 1, 7 PM
• Baptism, Sunday, November 4
• UTO Sunday, November 4
• SILS (former foster child) Young Person Collection,
November 11-25

vs. Fall “The Gathering:

By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member Team Spirit Bonfire And Hot Dog Roast

F riday, October 19, 6:30 – 9 p.m. at the home of Julie & Mike Young, 6713 Chadwick Rd., DeWitt (Map
on table outside the Merrifield Room)
Wear your team colors (MSU, U-M, other universities or high schools), bring your yearbooks, and be prepared
to recall the days of pep rallies, marching bands and torn down goal posts! (This party will kick off the annual
Food and Blood Drives with the traditional competition generated by the MSU/U-M football game). Get in the
Team Spirit and sign up on the sheet outside the Merrifield Room. Watch for additional details in upcoming
Sunday Bulletins.

B&PW
By Barbara Richardson

T he B&PW Guild will meet on October 9 at 6 p.m. in the Hill Room. Ann Blair, Lansing School District re-
tiree and community activist, will be our speaker.
The guild will once again be selling Younker’s Community Day coupon books for the Nov. 10 Community Day
sale. The books may be purchased from guild members or at the coffee hours on any Sunday in October. The
cost is $5 with the proceeds going to B&PW, not Younker’s.
All women of the church are invited to our meetings. Reservations are required. Please contact Nancy Milne
(882-0573) by Oct. 7 for a reservation.
 Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities Page 3

4 F’s 2007-08 Programs, “Taking Care of Ourselves & Others”

By Nancy Sheldon

T he 4 F’s meetings are held the second and fourth Mondays of each month, with communion at 12 noon,
lunch at 12:30, Bible study at 1 p.m. and the program from 1:15 to 2 p.m. We provide faith, fellowship,
food and fun for anyone who has time in the middle of the day! Sign up for each session on the table outside
the Merrifield Room.
October 8 November 26
Joe Houston, minister of Central United Methodist “Spiritual Eldering” continued with Pat Hep.
Church, will discuss Methodism, their ministries and their
December 10
unique facility
A special Christmas Celebration with the Grand Ledge
October 22
Madrigals led by Nancy Lange.
“Walking Turkey in Peace” with Carol Ingells. Carol
We will continue the 4F’s programs on January 14 and
will share her stories from a special trip to Turkey. will have program information in the January St. Paul’s
November 12 News.
“Spiritual Eldering” with retired director of refugee
services, Pat Hep.

Baptismal Covenant Classes Newcomer’s Classes

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

O ne of our yearly educational offerings is a

series of classes where we review and ex-
plain the Baptismal Covenant, which is the Prayer
Book’s doctrinal statement of what we believe
and how we are to respond to that belief. These
classes are always interesting because of the
questions, discussion and opinions shared by the
participants. These classes, which are combined
with the Newcomer’s Classes (see related article,
right), are appropriate for those seeking Baptism,
those wishing to affiliate with St. Paul’s and cur-
rent members wishing to explore their own faith in
a bit more depth. If interested, please contact the
parish office or one of the clergy.
E ach fall and spring, we hold newcomer classes for
those who would like to know more about St.
Paul’s and/or may be considering joining the parish.
These classes coincide with our Baptismal Covenant
classes which are held from 9:30-11:30 a.m. on four
Saturdays in October and November (Oct. 6, 13, and
20). In addition, a newcomers’ dinner will be held Sat-
urday evening, November 3, at 6 p.m., in the home of
Tom and Martie Repaskey. Those seeking to affiliate
with St. Paul’s will be officially welcomed at services on
Sunday, November 4. Should any of this interest you,
please contact the church office or one of the clergy.

O nce again we are planning for

Baptisms on the first Sunday of No-
vember. November 4, All Saints Sunday,
has become a traditional time for bap-
tisms because of its theological associa- TÄÄ ft|Çàá Wtç
tion with All Saints Day, which is always
November 1. Should your or someone in Thursday, November 1, 2007
you family desire to be baptized, please contact the church office or
Eucharist, Sermon and Necrology
one of the clergy. We will make arrangements with you. Please know
that one of the requirements is to attend the Baptismal Covenant 7 p.m.
classes mentioned in another place in this issue of the St. Paul’s News.
Page 4 Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities
From the Parish Life Committee
By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

“T he Gathering” is an opportunity for adults of the parish and guests—singles and couples—to enjoy a
good time and get to know one another better in informal fellowship settings three or four times a year.
It began a number of years ago by the Evangelism Committee as a way for both longer-term members and
newcomers to meet and feel connected to one another and the parish. Usually the group has gathered in the
home of parish members, sometimes for meals, hors d’oeuvres or dessert. The evenings have included theater
outings, barbeques, jazz nights and other musical entertainment both planned and spontaneous. Whatever the
“theme,” fun and fellowship has been enjoyed by all.
The vision of “The Gathering” is now being carried forward by the Parish Life Committee and exciting plans
are in the works for a Fall “Team Spirit” Bonfire and Hot Dog Roast (see below); a Christmas party; a Valen-
tine’s celebration and a spring theater outing. Watch for the announcements, plan to come and bring your
friends.

Sunday School Update

By Judi Clarke, Vestry Member

A s of Sunday, September 9, youth Sunday School

was back in session. Classes serve students in
grades pre-kindergarten through high school and be-
play in helping students cope with everyday con-
cerns.

gin at 9:45 a.m., giving parents adequate time to get
in and settled in the sanctuary. Sunday School ends at
approximately 10:45 a.m., when students march into
the sanctuary to be reunited with parents/caretakers.
The curriculum, Living The Good News, provides a lec-
tionary-based curriculum that shapes and transforms
lives. Each lesson includes an overview on how the
scripture readings fit together with everyday
life. Providing a warm and loving environment is a
primary goal of our program. We aim to teach the
powerful role that prayer and the sacraments can
The classes are broken down by the following grades
and teachers:
• Pre-K. – Kindergarten – Carol Laub and Julie
Fletcher
• 1st-3rd Grade – Judi Clarke
• 4th-5th Grade – Matt and Kym Hall
• 6th-8th Grade – Barb Heany and Tom Foltz
• 9th-12th Grade – Lyn Kressler
We look forward to assisting your child in the walk
with God.

Presiding Bishop to Speak in Lansing

By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

M any know that St. Paul’s invited The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the United
States, to speak at St. Paul’s in October. While our dates of invitation did not fit with her schedule, she
will be in Lansing the last weekend of October and will be the keynote speaker at the Diocesan Convention
banquet Friday evening, October 26. The convention and banquet will be held at the Holiday Inn South. Be-
cause of the expressed interest in what she has to say, and the response of the worldwide Anglican Commun-
ion to of the House of Bishops’ request, this will be a well attended banquet. We have reserved 56 tickets (5
tables of eight) as a starting point. Tickets for the banquet may cost as much as $35 per person (the price has
not yet been determined). We do not want anyone to miss this because of the cost of the tickets so anonymous
assistance will be provided for those who need it. Please contact Fr. Weller. Should we have more than 56
people who would like to attend, we will try to make additional reservations. Please sign up early by calling
the parish office or by signing the reservation list on the table outside the Merrifield Room on Sunday morning.
 Upcoming St. Paul’s Activities Page 5

Parenting Class Begins October 10

By Martie Repaskey, Vestry Member

T he second class in the ProActive Parenting series, entitled “Communicating with Your Child or Teen,” will
begin on October 10. The class will run for five sessions: October 10, 17, 24 and November 7 and 14,
from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Millie Ericson and Martie Repaskey will be the facilitators for this study of communi-
cation skills in Christian families.
Parents of children of any age are encouraged to join this interactive class which utilizes a combination of
video presentations, Bible study and conversation. All participants are encouraged to join the family night
crowd for dinner and fellowship before the class meeting. Childcare will be provided. The sign-up sheet is on
the table outside the Merrifield Room. For further information, please call or talk to Millie or Martie.

Needlepoint News Habitat Volunteer Alert!

By Mandy Lawton By Bill Fineout, Diaconal Candidate

A ccording to the September 2007 issue of

Episcopal Life, the Washington National
Cathedral has 1,500 separate pieces of needle-
point. Did you know that St. Paul’s has 175 pieces
of needlepoint in the church itself? It has 64 telling
the story of the Old and New Testaments and
111 are memorial kneelers. Additional needle-
point is in the hushers, the alms basins and on oc-
casional chairs throughout the church.
Did you know there are six needlepoint cushions in
the Van Atta room? Have you looked at the cush-
ions on the bench in the hallway going into the
church? They show the successive historical
churches of St. Paul’s.
Did you know that over 40 different individuals
have stitched the various needlepoint kneelers?
The last memorial kneeler, placed last summer, is
in memory of Nancy Herbert. It is seven rows from
the back of the church on the right side. Do take a
look.
The memorial kneelers make a nice gift for a
loved one or as a memorial for a deceased mem-
ber. Please contact me if you are interested in
adding to the “silent beauties” of St. Paul’s.
H abitat for Humanity starts a Lansing house this
October. This is a wonderful opportunity to help
a family and the Lansing area with a crucial life com-
ponent, housing.
If St. Paul’s has enough volunteers (UNSKILLED as well
as skilled), we can schedule our own orientation session
with Habitat to be held here at St. Paul’s.
There will be weekend builds this fall from October 12
until Thanksgiving, and the house will then be finished
in February.
St. Paul’s has two veteran volunteers, MaryLea Benson
and Matt Mann, who could answer your questions. We
have not participated in a build in two years and this
just might be your “thing.” You can commit to just the
hours or days you have to donate. The builds will occur
on Fridays and Saturdays with some Thursdays.
Habitat asks a commitment in three areas: prayer, vol-
unteers and financing. While all three are extremely
important, we need to know if you are willing to volun-
teer so we can schedule the orientation meeting,
probably Wednesday, October 3 or 10.
Volunteers can be of any skill level. Someone to pro-
vide lunches for builders is also needed. If you are in-
terested, please let Bill Fineout know so we can sched-
ule orientation. Habitat is requiring all volunteers at-
tend their orientation sessions.
Page 6
St. Paul’s News
Announcing A Parish Wide Book Read
By Millie Ericson, Vestry Member

F ollowing the example of East Lansing’s “One Community, One Book,” St. Paul’s will launch an opportunity
for all members of the parish to join in reading the same book, gather in small discussion groups and
come together for a guest lecturer who will further enlighten us on the book’s topic and implications. The goal
of this endeavor is to increase our sense of fellowship and common connections as the Body of Christ at St.
Paul’s.
The book chosen is The Worst Hard Times, the Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust
Bowl, by Timothy Eden (New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2006). With section headings like “Promise,” “Betrayal”
and “Blowup,” and a conclusion that suggests rebirth, the book offers implications for our Biblical and spiritual
journey as Christians, as well as connections to the Millennium Development Goals. It is highly readable, written
by a Pulitzer Prize winning author, focusing on the personal stories of those who remained in the Dust Bowl dur-
ing the “worst hard times” and endured.
Discussion Groups will convene in January. These will be held at various times and locations to best facilitate
the needs of everyone. A Guest Lecture will also be in January (guest lecturer to be announced later).
Please sign up on the table outside the Merrifield Room to participate, including your preferred time and loca-
tion for joining a discussion group. Also indicate on the sheet if you would be willing to host a discussion group
in your home and/or facilitate a group. (Group facilitators will meet in the late fall to prepare.) Books for pur-
chase will be made available at the church, so signing up is important to know how many books we need.
Think up a creative name for our book read and, if yours is chosen, win a free copy of the book. Submit sug-
gestions to Millie Ericson or Gordon Weller.
For further information, contact Millie, Gordon or any member of the Parish Life Committee.

Highlights from the September Vestry
Meeting:
At the September 18 Vestry meeting, your Vestry:
• Had a discussion (review) of The Rev. Ronald
Byrd's ordination
• Noted that the brass plaques for the Memorial
Garden have been ordered
• Committed to attending Action's Nehemiah Action
Assembly on September 24
• Discussed the progress of the city's sewer separa-
tion (perhaps three more weeks)
• Reviewed the Public Relations Plan progress
• Heard a report from LAEP (Lansing Area Episco-
pal Projects) - there is a caucus of all Diocesan
Convention Representatives on October 8 here at
St. Paul's, 7 p.m.
• Discussed the need for the completion of the
2006 audit
• Received various committee reports. The fall sea-
son is here and we are in full operation. It looks
like a good year ahead.
• Heard that the Personnel Committee is in the
process of doing fall reviews
• Noted that Steve and the choir will be performing
Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visi-
tors" in December and that we should get extra
publicity so that attendance is good
• Noted that the air conditioning installation was
about $4,400.00 over budget, primarily due to a
$4,800.00 electrician's bill. Electrician had been
paid out of general maintenance.
• Approved the expenditure of $3,800.00 to fix
the leak in the Parish Hall entryway roof
• Approved $389.00 for a new, larger gas meter
in case we would like to hook the gas up to the
new AC/heater
• Approved moving an additional $20,000 from
the Perpetual Fund (if needed) to the operating
account
• Noted that budget requests for the 2008 budget
are now due. The budgeting process is now un-
derway, including Every Member Canvass
• Received the resignation of Dan Kallish as Sexton
effective immediately. A search for a replace-
ment is underway.
• Discussed the Diocesan Convention (Oct. 26 & 27)
and the fact that the Presiding Bishop will be pre-
sent. Vestry and Delegates plan on attending the
Banquet.
• Received Clergy reports
 News from the Vestry Page 7

Financial Information as of August 31, 2007

By Jeff Irwin
The August accounting was not complete as of the writing of this article. The following is based on preliminary
data.
The total pledge and non-pledge revenue received through August 31 was $181,117, which is 64% of the to-
tal 2007 budget. August is 67% of the year, so we are a little behind. It is hoped that autumn will bring addi-
tional pledge payments and we will meet our 2007 budget for pledge revenue.
Through August 31, we have incurred a net operating loss of nearly $100,000. Although this is a very large
amount, it is not unexpected based on our 2007 operating budget.
The restricted and designated funds have recorded close to $80,000 in revenue. This includes both investment
gains and restricted contributions.
As of September 12, 2007, it has been necessary to withdraw $120,000 from the Perpetual Fund to provide
cash to keep the church operating.

Highlights from the August Vestry
Meeting:
At the August 21 Vestry meeting your Vestry:
• Welcomed Ronald Byrd to the parish and vestry.
Approved June and July minutes (posted on the
Bulletin Board outside the rector's office).
• Discussed the cost overrun on the Merrifield Room
air conditioning (about $2,500.00 due to electri-
cian's bill) which will be paid out of the Building
Fund when the final overrun amount is known.
• Discussed garden plaque status - need to be or-
dered.
• Heard ACTION report. Justice issue selected but
not approved by the ACTION Board. It probably
will be a Jail Ministry item. More by September.
ACTION Board meets next Monday evening.
• Heard Oliver Tower report. No city response.
Only recourse is a ballot initiative. Probably will
not happen.
• Heard report on sewer separation. Seymour
Street still is torn up. The Roosevelt Parking ramp
will always be open evenings and weekends. Our
parking will not be interrupted.
• Learned the Public Relations plan is still being
developed.
• Heard reports from LAEP (Lansing Area Episcopal
Projects) that St. Paul's will have SILS responsibil-
ity in November (SILS is the program that pro-
vides start-up living materials for those teens ag-
ing out of the foster care program).
• Discussed the Visioning and Welcoming Church
documents.
• Approved $4,800.00 to repair the cloister and
office steps.
• Heard various committee reports; we are ready
for the fall season to begin.
• Were notified that we will have to replace the
sexton. The current sexton is to be out by Septem-
ber 20.
• Received a treasurer's report (highlights of which
are elsewhere in this issue).
• Approved our full diocesan pledge for 2008
($43,618.00).
• Elected new Diocesan Delegates (Greg Wortley,
Charlie Krupka, Libby Richardson, alternates -
Kathy Gut, Larry Clark).
• Received Clergy reports.
Page 8
St. Paul’s News
Upcoming Mission & Outreach Activities
Where is Christ calling you to help others?
October 10 Habitat for Humanity Orientation (at St. Paul’s) for volunteers, if we have a crew
October 12-13 Habitat for Humanity house build starts
October 14 Crop Walk (Youth activity in the past)
October 19 Food Drive starts – “The Gathering”
October 20 Blood Drive
October Housing Assistance Fund – Fruit & Greens Sale Begins
November 4 UTO Ingathering
November 4 Food Drive Final Day
November 11–18 Thanksgiving Baskets
December SILS (Supervised Independent Living Services) Apartment Starter Collection for Child
& Family Services young adults who have aged out of foster care. See the December
newsletter
November 19 LAEP quarterly meeting (Lansing Area Episcopal Projects)
December 2 or 9 Fruit & Greens pickup at All Saints (date TBA)
December Mitten Tree
December 24 Gifts for the Christ Child – Eve’s House

CarsINC
Cars In the Name of Christ
By Tom Repaskey

C arsINC was founded in July 2007 as a non-profit We are in the process of applying for 501(c)(3)
ministry to assist families in acquiring a car. status, which will enable any contribution made to
CarsINC to qualify as a charitable (tax-deductible)
The idea for this ministry was borne out of Chuck Mil- contribution. Until we are notified that it is complete, it
lar’s efforts over the past several years to assist some is necessary and appropriate for interested persons to
of the Sudanese members of the parish. A number of make their checks payable to St. Paul’s.
parishioners contributed their cars and made a real
difference in the lives of the Sudanese. We placed our first car last week with a single mom
with three children and employed as a phlebotomist.
We are now organized as a non-profit corporation, Christian Services is thrilled to know that we may be
and, while seeking cars to be donated by parishioners able to assist more families like this one which have
and others, we are also looking to raise money to as- completed their Quality Living course, are employed
sist in their purchase. In this way we believe we can and are responsible and eligible to qualify for our
help many more families achieve financial independ- help.
ence.
There is a huge need and we hope you will consider
If any members would like to contribute, please make contributing to this cause.
your check payable to St. Paul’s and note that it be
used for CarsINC. Whoever contributes $1,000 during If you have any questions about this ministry, please
the first year of operation will be a Founding Mem- contact me at 517-230-0082.
ber.
 St. Paul’s Choirs Page 9

Choir Newsletter
By Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music

I t was absolutely wonderful to have all of you back and singing on September 9. After going without your
presence as a choir during the summer, it was extremely uplifting to have your leadership of the hymns, to
hear the descants and to witness the ministry of so many people. You certainly helped to create an environ-
ment in which inspiring worship could take place. Thank you!

Choir News and Dates to Remember

England Choristers and Parents: There will be a meeting on Sunday, October 7, at 11:30 a.m. in the choir
rehearsal room. We will have many important issues to discuss: school, dates, chaperones, opening the trip
to non-chorister families, money-raising activities, including the auction. Please save this date. Thank you.
Because Halloween comes on a Wednesday this year, we will not have family night/rehearsals on that
night (October 31). Normal scheduling will resume the next week.

Singing Schedule
Date Choirs
October 7 Boys’ and Grace; High School
October 14 High School and Chancel
October 21 High School and Chancel
October 28 High School and Chancel

November 4 Boys’ and Grace; High School; Chancel

November 11 High School; Chancel
November 18 High School; Chancel
November 25 High School; Chancel

2007 Men’s Golf League Champions

A fter 16 weeks of hard fought golf matches, Jim Huber and Mark
Johnson surfaced as the 2007 Men's Golf League Champions.
Together we all had a good year: good friendship, good golf, a good
meal at the end and good thoughts for 2008. If you are a golfer, con-
sider joining us next year. We're all much less than professionals and
we simply enjoy a weekly stroll together on THURSDAY afternoons.
Page 10
St. Paul’s News
Good News I’d Like You to Know
by Sue Millar, ERD Diocesan Coordinator

A s awareness of the work of Episcopal Relief and Development has grown, so has our support. Read this
and rejoice with me:
In 2006 St. Paul’s contributed a total of $1,904.06
In 2007 St. Paul’s contributed a total of $2,523.33
Additionally, individuals have contributed an unknown amount directly to ERD, sometimes using a monthly EFT
to facilitate pledge payment.
The fund raisers you supported to make these gifts possible were the Gathering social events (featuring Jeff
Kressler’s jazz group), the Sunday morning brunches, the used book sales and your Hope Chest donations.
In addition to repeating these fund raising activities, we continue to sell Bishops Blend Coffee and send the
profits to ERD. And as the Christmas season approaches, we will again encourage gift giving using ERD’s Gifts
of Life Catalog.
Our gifts to ERD contribute to the Millennium Development goals that make a great difference in the lives of
the many innocents who suffer around the globe. As our Presiding Bishop has pointed out, “This church has said
that our larger vision will be framed and shaped in the coming years by the vision of the Millennium Develop-
ment Goals – a world where the hungry are fed, the ill are healed, the young educated, women and men
treated equally, and where all have access to clean water and adequate sanitation, basic health care, and
the promise of development that does not endanger the rest of creation.”
Thanks for participating. Keep up the good work!

St. Paul’s October Prayer List

W e pray for those who are sick and in need: Cindy Robinson, Richard, Audrie &
Aaron Hegmon, Shelley Robinson, Donna, Grady, & Dennis Letner, Clara Vo-
ges, Mason Hill, Lois Caswell, Brian Schray, June Wyatt, Dick Siebert, Carol, Bernie
Lynch, Judith Jones, baby Benjamin, Becky Chamberlain, Nancy Hiscoe Clark, Eliza-
Prayer List beth Marsden, Dezi & Penny Horvat, Charles Weaver, Kristin Kelley, Rich Davis, Cris
Plyler, Ben Herbert, Tim Ross, Chance Collins, Caroline Thomas and her parents, broth-
ers & godparents, Betty Jensen, Marjorie Belles, Dan, Marsha & Skip Macholz, Gloria Harvat, Jack Siebold,
Joe Manson, DakBai DakBai, Jessica Ryan, Irene Jones, Roger Ophaug, Fredrick Engle, Kelsey Bauman,
Mary Ann Kelley, Mark Surprenant, Ed Farmer, Elizabeth, Virginia Jessop, Sally Engle, Ed Jones, Alice Jes-
sop Lamb, Justin, Susan Sedja and Barb Hacker
We pray for and remember those in the Military, serving in dangerous areas: Carlos Sims, Daniel Reno
and Daniel Laurion

We pray for those expecting: Brian & Amy (Fowler) Ashcraft, Daniel & Gretchen Barnas, Opuene &
Karen Amachree, Stuart & Rochelle Cullum, Cory & Stacy Nelson, Christopher & Kristan Chase, and Justin
& Jessica Leonard

We celebrate the birth of: Hannah Marie Henrys to Leigh (Zynda) & Ryan Henrys
We pray for those who have died: Dixie Durr
We celebrate the baptism of: Harry E. Mika III
We celebrate the weddings of: Sarah Forrester & Daniel Brown, Elizabeth Moore & Matthew Everett
We pray for our newly ordained priest, The Rev. Ronald C. Byrd, Sr., and his ministry.
 St. Paul’s News Page 11

The Road to Ordination

By The Rev. Ronald Charles Byrd, Sr.

“W e certify that he has satisfied the requirements of the canons, and

we believe him to be qualified for this order.” Since becoming a
Postulant for Holy Orders nearly five years ago, I waited for this moment,
and the day had finally arrived, when Christ’s One Holy Catholic Church
would answer in an affirmative to the Bishop’s question: “Is it your will that
Ronald be ordained priest?” On September 15, here at St. Paul’s, God
smiled on me, displaying yet again God’s majesty and glory, as the Rt. Rev. Wendell N. Gibbs, Jr. asked the
Father to give his Holy Spirit to me, through Jesus Christ his son and to make me a priest in Christ’s Church. A
lifetime of yearning and hunger for the Spirit of truth to comfort my soul with new revelations of God’s favor
and grace had now been satisfied. To know one’s own destiny is to receive God’s favor. To live into one’s des-
tiny is through the guidance of God’s unmerited grace, given in the power and working of the Holy Spirit. I am
blessed, being entrusted by our Creator, Christ, and the Church, with this great gift of priestly ministry. To this I
say, “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty!”
My many thanks to all of you, here at St. Paul’s, who worked so hard towards making the day of my ordina-
tion a memorable occasion. While it is impossible to name everyone individually, I would like to give a special
thank you to the St. Paul’s acolytes, Altar Guild, ushers, Episcopal Church Women, and most especially, to Dr.
Lange, Ms. Victoria Walker, and our magnificent choir for making Saturday, September 15, 2007 truly, truly
special and glorious.
What a surprise! What a wonderful gift!
To Fr. Gordon and every parishioner at St. Paul’s, thank you for generous and gracious gift of liturgical stoles.
Each of the four colorful stoles will forever serve as a reminder to me of all of you and my ministry here at St.
Paul’s. Again, thank you for your prayers, and your wonderful gift.

Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Steering Committee

By Annette Irwin, President

I f you are a woman and at least 18 years old, you are a part of ECW! Isn't that just the easiest group to
join? Now what is the ECW Steering Committee? This is a group of 12-15 women who assist in organizing
many of the functions you have attended at St. Paul’s. A few examples of the Steering Committee’s work fol-
lows: we keep the coffee pouring during coffee hours, organize special coffee hours for Christmas and Easter,
send treats to our college freshman right before those ever stressful exams, assist with greeting at Sunday ser-
vices, organize funeral receptions and host a women's retreat in the spring.
Now these 12-15 women certainly do not do this all alone; you all help us. However, we do try to keep it all
going and call upon many others so that work does not become overwhelming for the steering committee mem-
bers. We meet the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Hill Room. Our membership is down a bit and
we really would like to extend an invitation to anyone who is interested to come and join us. In fact, you don't
have to wait until the meeting to join in the fun! Call Annette Irwin at 332-4439 after 5 p.m., 319-6801 during
the day or e-mail airwin@cityofeastlansing.com. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Page 12
St. Paul’s News
Ronald Byrd Ordained to the Priest-
By The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller

O n Saturday, September 15, Ronald Byrd was ordained

to the priesthood. In a wonderful service, members of
four congregations gathered to celebrate the occasion. Peo-
ple from St. Clements, Inkster, his home parish, St John’s
Royal Oak, his sponsoring parish, his field education parish in
Washington D.C., and many members of St. Paul’s pro-
claimed Ron worthy and called to the ministry of a priest. From left: The Rev. Canon John T. Harmon, The Rt. Rev. Wendell
Our bishop, the Rt. Rev. Wendell Gibbs, fresh from his sab- N. Gibbs, Jr., Mrs. Jennifer Byrd, The Rev. Ronald Charles Byrd,
batical, continued the tradition of apostolic succession by lay- The Rev. Dr. Gordon F. Weller, Front, from left: Ramon Charles
Byrd, and Kayla Marie Byrd
ing hands upon Ron and invoking the power of the Holy
Spirit. The preacher was the Rev. Canon John Harmon from Washington D.C., and the Litinist was the Rev. Ellis
Clifton. Please congratulate Ron if you have not had the opportunity.

(Continued from, “Vestry 2007”, page 1)

Millie Ericson and the newly formed Parish Life Committee welcomed us back with two special opportunities
for connecting with fellow parishioners this fall. On Friday, September 21, members of all ages gathered for a
pizza party and game night. And on Friday, October 19, adults will be gathering for an autumn bonfire and
hot dog roast. And the committee reports that future plans include a parish-wide book read, a Prayer Quilt
group and parish picnic, all opportunities for talking, laughing, playing and interacting with each other.
Of course the possible irony of these highlighted events for enhancing our culture of warmth and welcome, as
well as of the many other happenings and developments of this busy homecoming season, is that we get so
tied up with activities that we lose sight of that most important aspect of welcoming, namely, that simple one-to
-one greeting or gesture that communicates warmth and caring to someone new to St. Paul‘s. As important as
the more formal mechanisms of welcoming are—and I can’t emphasize their importance enough—it’s my hope
that we not overlook the seemingly obvious, but easily forgotten, fundamentals of hospitality: personally
greeting, welcoming, introducing, orienting and integrating newcomers one by one to St. Paul’s.
To that end, I would like to add a postscript to the Evangelism Committee’s “Suggestions for Welcoming New-
comers” published by Martie Repaskey in last month’s News with a quote from the late Susy Miller, former
national church consultant for congregational development and reform. Susy wrote, “I do love movies. They
give us such glimpses of our own behaviors, often with enough humor so we can take it all in. The opening
scene of “Home Alone” is one of those moments. Remember the scene? The entire family is quite busy getting
ready for their activities and journey. A couple of strangers appear at the door. They look harmless. Actually,
they look safe—and they look as though they might know why they are there. The family is really, really busy
and everyone assumes that everyone else is taking care of the stranger . . . Well, you know the rest of the
story. I think that Sunday mornings just might be a bit like that for many of our ‘strangers.’ We’re really busy,
you know, rushing here and there, tossing information to one another, catching a running child, making sure
everyone is ready. We often assume someone else is paying real attention to the visitor....”
All the latest developments at St. Paul’s keep us hopping, but it’s my hope that we will not let our activities get
in the way of simple hospitality practiced weekly. As Susy continues, “People become members of a church for
a variety of reasons. But one big reason that they stay [members] is how well they feel welcomed and in-
cluded in the life of the congregation.”

(Continued from, “The Gift of Generosity,” page 1)

that generosity on your part will make you happy in the same way God's generosity makes him happy. The
problem is that most humans are afraid to take the chance. We tend to hoard and look out for number one.
Consider taking a bit of a risk this year. Be generous and perhaps you will be able to find the happiness you
seek.
St. Paul’s News Page 13
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The St. Paul’s News is a publication of St. Paul’s Episcopal

Church, Lansing Michigan.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Staff
The Rev. Dr. Gordon Weller, Rector
The Rev. Ronald Byrd, Curate
Dr. Stephen R. Lange, Minister of Music
Mr. William H. Fineout, Acting Deacon
Ms. Mary Rodeck, Assistant Minister of Music
Ms. Kathleen Johnson, Office Manager

St. Paul’s News Editorial Staff

Christine Caswell, Editor
Tom Shawver, Staff Writer
Helen Hiscoe, Proofreader
Lyn Zynda, Layout Editor

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