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The Philippian A publication of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church St. Philip‟s Episcopal Church * East Moore & Dry Streets * P.O. Box 10476 * Southport, NC 28461 http://www.stphilipschurch.org * E-Mail: [email protected] Phone: (910) 457-5643 * Fax: (910) 457-6991 * Vol. 8, No. 12 December, 2011 From the Rector “The unmotivated are notoriously invulnerable to insight.” The above quotation is from Edwin H. Friedman, rabbi, author, and pioneer in the field of family therapy and a systems approach to counseling. Rabbi Friedman died a number of years ago, yet his influence on those of us who study such things has not waned, but grown exponentially. His comment, above, about the short-sightedness of those who live life in a static mode is part of the preface in a wonderfully challenging and thought provoking book called “Dancing with Dinosaurs” by William Easum. The basic premise of Mr. Easum‟s book, as you might infer from its title, is that before long many of our Christian congregations will be perceived as “cuddly, sentimental creatures who will be studied primarily as skeletons in the halls of a museum.” Easum‟s premise, from the perspective of the statistical information on church growth, attendance and financial giving released by the Episcopal Church for the year 2010, deserves our attention. We, along with other mainline denominations, are in danger of becoming dinosaurs disappearing from the landscape unless we address what many are calling out-dated programs and messages that no longer make sense in a 21 st century world. In his book, published in 1993, Easum argues that while the substance of the gospel will not be changed as we make this shift, we must change the way that we package and proclaim that gospel. I have read Mr. Easum‟s book several times, and been provoked, in a good way, by his message. There is much I agree with in his book, and even more that I have continuing questions about. For me, Easum‟s insight, coupled with my study of the „emerging church,‟ is like a gauntlet thrown in my path. Which leads me to ask the following of you during this Advent season. As you anticipate and embrace our annual celebration of the Incarnation, give yourself a gift. Perform a “faith check-up.” Ask yourself these critical questions – Is my journey with Christ on track? Has my faith continued to grow over the last year, five years, ten years, or more? If not, why not?

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The Philippian A publication of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church

St. Philip‟s Episcopal Church * East Moore & Dry Streets * P.O. Box 10476 * Southport, NC 28461

http://www.stphilipschurch.org * E-Mail: [email protected]

Phone: (910) 457-5643 * Fax: (910) 457-6991 *

Vol. 8, No. 12 December, 2011

From the Rector

“The unmotivated are notoriously

invulnerable to insight.”

The above quotation is from Edwin H. Friedman, rabbi, author, and pioneer in the

field of family therapy and a systems approach to counseling. Rabbi Friedman died a

number of years ago, yet his influence on those of us who study such things has not waned,

but grown exponentially. His comment, above, about the short-sightedness of those who

live life in a static mode is part of the preface in a wonderfully challenging and thought

provoking book called “Dancing with Dinosaurs” by William Easum.

The basic premise of Mr. Easum‟s book, as you might infer from its title, is that

before long many of our Christian congregations will be perceived as “cuddly, sentimental

creatures who will be studied primarily as skeletons in the halls of a museum.” Easum‟s

premise, from the perspective of the statistical information on church growth, attendance

and financial giving released by the Episcopal Church for the year 2010, deserves our

attention. We, along with other mainline denominations, are in danger of becoming

dinosaurs – disappearing from the landscape unless we address what many are calling

out-dated programs and messages that no longer make sense in a 21st century world.

In his book, published in 1993, Easum argues that while the substance of the gospel

will not be changed as we make this shift, we must change the way that we package and

proclaim that gospel.

I have read Mr. Easum‟s book several times, and been provoked, in a good way, by

his message. There is much I agree with in his book, and even more that I have continuing

questions about. For me, Easum‟s insight, coupled with my study of the „emerging

church,‟ is like a gauntlet thrown in my path. Which leads me to ask the following of you

during this Advent season.

As you anticipate and embrace our annual celebration of the Incarnation, give

yourself a gift. Perform a “faith check-up.” Ask yourself these critical questions – Is my

journey with Christ on track? Has my faith continued to grow over the last year, five

years, ten years, or more? If not, why not?

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And secondly, how has the church supported my life in Christ? If it hasn‟t, where

has it fallen short? Are St. Philip‟s worship, preaching, teaching, music, outreach, and

evangelism efforts, relevant to the community we live in? If not, why not?

The bottom line my brothers and sisters is not, do we need to change, but how do we

need to change? The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a static one. It is as vibrant today as it

was 2000 years ago. Our mission as servants of Christ is to constantly assess the

assumptions of the past in light of the needs of today. There is no better time to do that

than on the eve of Christ‟s birth.

So, how are we doing? How are you doing? Are we and you treading water, biding

our time, on hold, waiting for something to happen? At our January retreat, the vestry

will be making decisions that impact our mission and ministry for 2012 and beyond.

While our recently updated long range plan, The Course, will be a helpful guide, we‟d love

to hear from you. So, how are we doing?

Merry Christmas, God bless you and remember you are loved!

Fr. Barry+

It’s that time again! Please collect bears for our annual Bear Drive.

We will be distributing the bears to local

nursing homes and hospitals to bring a bit of

cheer during the Christmas season. Please

start bringing bears to church after

Thanksgiving. If you would like to volunteer to help with

this worthy project contact Lorraine Beamer – 845-8705.

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Advent & Christmas 2011

Worship Schedule

December 4th – Advent II

Annual Meeting – One service at 10AM

11:30 AM - Covered Dish Brunch at Southport Community Center

December 11th – Advent III

8AM – Rite II

9:15 AM - Christian Education

10:30AM – Rite II

December 16th – Friday

6PM - St. Philip‟s Christmas Pageant

7PM – St. Philip‟s Christmas Party at Southport Community Center

*Please bring heavy hors d'oeuvres to share

December 18th – Advent IV

8AM – Rite I

9:15AM - Christian Education

10:30AM – Rite II

December 22nd – Thursday

10AM – Greening of the Church

*Those who would like to participate are asked to please sign up. The Flower

Guild will assign individual tasks.

December 24th – Christmas Eve

5PM – Rite II

9:30PM – Musical Prelude

10PM – Rite II

December 25th – Christmas Day

One service @ 9AM – Rite II – St. Philip‟s Church

Sunday – January 1st

8AM – Rite I

No Christian Education today

10:30AM – Rite II

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The Vestry of St. Philip’s Church requests the attendance of all

parishioners at the Annual Meeting on December 4, 2011.

Following a single service at 10AM, at which time we will

recognize our out-going vestry members, parishioners are

asked to join us for a covered dish luncheon at the Southport

Community Building. During lunch we will conduct our Annual

Meeting where we will elect new vestry members and discuss

other church business. Childcare will be provided during the worship service and at the Annual Meeting.

Rector‟s Forum Topics

Our Sunday morning forum will consist of a shopping cart of topics. Among them will be reflections on

current events, church history, Holy Scripture and other subjects. All classes will meet in the Parish

Hall at 9:15AM, or in the church office* as indicated.

Sunday, December 4th

No Class – One

service – Annual Meeting

*Sunday, Dec. 11th

“Ecclesiology”

Sunday, Dec. 18th

“What‟s new in the Wall Street Journal?”

Sunday, Dec. 25th

“No Class – One service – Christmas Day

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Prayer and Meditation Those who are closest to me know that I am strong believer in the power of prayer and

meditation. Over the years I have worked on increasing my prayer life but like most people, I find

myself easily distracted while trying to focus on prayers with thoughts/words. (Remember, prayer is

responding to God, by thought and by deeds, with or without words.) By the time I find a quiet

time during the day to focus on prayer in a more traditional sense of the word, I am more inclined

to mentally review my to-do list, create a mental grocery list, or just fall asleep.

Recently a dear friend and parishioner asked me about the Anglican Rosary. He had purchased

one a few years back to help the youth raise money for the pool at Camp Trinity. While he was

familiar with the concept of praying the rosary, he wanted to know more about how and why to

pray the rosary. While I too have had a long awareness of the Catholic practice of praying the

rosary, it has only been in the last 10 years or so that I have come to know the Anglican Rosary.

My first attraction to the Anglican Rosary was it wasn’t as long…there are four weeks instead of

five decades (and all the former Catholics reading this completely understand that last statement).

The Anglican Rosary is comprised of 33 total beads. Like the more familiar Catholic Rosary, the

Anglican Rosary starts with a cross and invitatory bead. The cross reminds us of God’s saving

grace and the invitatory bead is our invitation to prayer. There are four cruciform beads and

between each cruciform bead are seven week beads. While packed full of symbolism, instead of

offering detailed descriptions of each symbol, I suggest you look in the Narthex for the booklet “The

Anglican Rosary.” Not only does it do a wonderful job of explaining the history and symbolism,

you will also find a variety of prayers you can use with your Anglican Rosary.

Another practice which I have more recently become aware of is “praying in color.” Trust me, I

am not an artistic person but when I saw a book on this practice written for children I had to have

it. Praying in color is something so simple that ANYONE can do it. I’ve heard some say that they

aren’t artistic but if you can write and/or doodle, you can pray in color. The basic concept is that

certain colors and shape evoke an emotional response in us. While this seems like an odd concept,

marketers have used this knowledge for many years to get us to purchase their products. Architects

in industrial design have manipulated us with paint colors and shapes for years to keep us moving

along a long corridor, or to linger a little longer in a space.

During Advent, Rachel Teeters, a color predictor (yes, she predicts what colors will be trendy in

a year, five years and even ten years down the road so industries can be ahead of the curve) will

lead a three part workshop on praying in color. She will look at why we pray, for whom we pray,

and what prevents us from praying. She is even going to lead the sessions twice an evening at 5PM

prior to the Wednesday healing service and then again following the service for those unable to

attend at 5PM.

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I encourage you to take time to slow down this Advent. Pick up a copy of the booklet “The

Anglican Rosary” which includes a number of prayers to get you started. Spend some quiet time

feeling the beads move through your hands. If the Rosary doesn’t serve you well, then pick up any

piece of paper and something with which to doodle. Relax and let yourself put onto paper

something that only you will see and only you need to understand. God already knows what is in

our hearts.

Millie

December Lectionaries

December 4th

(Second Sunday of Advent) Isaiah 40:1-

11 Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 2 Peter 3:8-

15a Mark 1:1-8

December 18th (Fourth Sunday of Advent)

2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16

Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26

Romans 16:25-27

Luke 1:26-38

December 11th (Third Sunday of Advent)

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

Psalm 126

Thessalonians 5:16-24

John 1:6-8, 19-28

December 25th (Christmas Day)

Isaiah 62:6-12

Psalm 97

Titus 3:4-7

Luke 2:[1-7] 8-20

Thank You, St. Philip’s

Many thanks to Bill Tomz, Paxton Watkins and Marv Adkins for their time and talent

repairing the front doors of the Chapel of the Cross. The damaged casings and jambs as well as

the bottoms of the door have been repaired/ replaced, caulked and sealed. Thanks again for your

time and talents.

Tom Trivett Jr. Warden

Our grateful thanks go to all those Philippians who came to or helped with the New Comers

Social at our home on October 23. You made it a wonderful day for us and for many others!

Love, Jimmy and May Moore

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Putting Away Childish Things by Marcus Borg

A Review

With Putting Away Childish Things prominent progressive Episcopal theologian Marcus Borg joins

the ranks of serious religious writers (C.S. Lewis, Andrew Greeley, Ralph McInerny) who have turned

to fiction to reach a larger, more varied audience. Certainly unfamiliar insights delivered in the words

of an endearing fictional character are both less threatening and far more accessible. While seldom

great literature, religious fiction bridges the gap between the professional theologian/philosopher and

the inquiring thoughtful lay reader.

At the center of Borg’s novel is Kate, a conscientious junior professor of religion at a distinguished

liberal arts college, who faces challenges of the soul as well as of career. She is her own person, starting

her day with Morning Prayer and ending her work day enjoying the solitude of the local dive enjoying a

beer and her daily ration of cigarettes. As she challenges her students Borg challenges his readers to

move from the faith of childhood to a mature faith of trust and vision.

Kate finds herself in that lonely place between the certainties of the Religious Right and the

scholarly detachment of her senior colleagues, a world not unfamiliar to me. First mocked by religious

talk radio for questioning the literalism of the Christmas story, she then discovers her tenure is in

doubt because her scholarship is too infused with faith. Is there a place for thinking Christians in

today’s world?

Borg shares his own insights through Kate’s voice as she gently leads her students to “put away

childish things” in the course of three classes he describes at length. Lots of meat here. Two themes

that stuck with me: his distinction between truth and factuality; and his notion of faith as a matter of

the heart, less intellectual assent than radical trust and fidelity. At the same time, Borg allows some

very smart students to express the same doubts a reader may have,

There is much more to the story and to Borg’s theology than I can describe here. I recommend it

for two reasons beyond the fact I just really liked it. First, it is a marvelous and accessible introduction

into the best of contemporary theology in a user-friendly kind of way. And second, how better to

engage in some serious spiritual reflection than to curl up with a good novel.

Mike Burke

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Sunday, December 4th

- Youth Sunday

Annual Meeting – No Christian Ed

One Worship service at 10AM

5:30 PM – Sr. Youth Group (Parish Hall)

Monday, December 5th

5:30 PM – Jr. Acolyte Training & Christmas Activity (Parish Hall)

6:15 PM – Sr. Acolyte Training & Christmas Activity (Parish Hall)

Sunday, December 11th

9:15AM – Sunday School ~ The prophet brings good news

Friday, December 16th

6:00PM – Christmas Play If Angels were Mortal…. (Sanctuary)

7:00 PM – Parish Christmas Party (Southport Community Building)

Sunday, December 18th

9:15 AM – Gingerbread House Construction with the Deacon

9:40 AM – Sunday School ~ The family of Jesus

Sunday, December 25th

– Christmas Day

No Christian Education

Sunday, January 1st – New Year’s Day

No Christian Education

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Opportunities for Adult Christian Formation and Renewal,

December 2011

Sunday, December 4th

– Annual Meeting

No Christian Education

One worship service at 10AM

Monday, December 5th

10:00AM – Seekers Adult Study ~ The Myth of Redemptive

Violence (Parish Hall)

Wednesday, December 7th

10:00 AM –Bible Study, Gospel of Mark 4:1-34; Miracles around the Sea of Galilee (Parish

Hall)

Sunday, December 11th

9:15 AM – Adult Christian Education, (Parish Hall)

Wednesday, December 14th

10:00 AM –Bible Study, Gospel of Mark 6:6b-8:26; Jesus continues preaching in Galilee

(Parish Hall)

Friday, December 16th

6:00PM – Christmas Play If Angels were Mortal…. (Sanctuary)

7:00 PM – Parish Christmas Party (Southport Community Building)

Sunday, December 18th

9:15 AM – Adult Christian Education, (Parish Hall)

Monday, December 19th

10:00AM – Seekers Adult Study, ~ The Myth of Redemptive Violence (Parish Hall)

Wednesday, December 21st

10:00 AM –Bible Study, Gospel of Mark 8:27-10:52; Preparing the Disciples for Suffering

(Parish Hall)

7:00 PM – Wednesday with Women, Creating a Legacy Circle (Parish Office)

Sunday, December 25th

– Christmas Day

No Christian Education

Wednesday, December 28th

Parish Office Closed – No Bible Study

Sunday, January 1st – New Year’s Day

No Christian Education

Wednesday, January 4th

10:00 AM –Bible Study, Gospel of Mark 11:1-13:37; Jesus’ Ministry in Jerusalem (Parish

Hall)

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2012 Adult Confirmation/Newcomers Class

Saturday, January 21st at 9AM will be our first class for those seeking to learn

more about the Anglican Communion/Episcopal Church. While the class is open to

all, including those who just want to 'brush up' on their knowledge of things

Episcopal, this class is specifically designed for those who have yet to be received

or confirmed in the Episcopal Church. There are eight classes in all, and each class

will last approximately one and a half hours.

There are three required texts for the course. Total cost $32.00. If you are

interested in attending the classes and the cost of the books is a hardship,

assistance is available. Just let Fr. Barry know. Most classes will be held on

Saturday mornings. A tentative schedule will be handed out at the first meeting.

Please sign up no later than January 9th by calling the parish office at 457-5643.

I look forward to seeing you on January 21st at 9AM.

Fr. Barry+

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Have you ever had any of these prayer problems?

You can’t sit still long enough to pray.

You’re tired of praying the same old prayers you’ve prayed since preschool.

You run out of words but the prayer doesn’t feel finished.

You wonder whether God is even listening.

You want to pray but it feels like a chore.

You start to pray but then your mind wonders to other things.

Then this is for you!

PRAYING IN COLOR

Praying in Color is a way to pray with your eyes, your ears, and your

hands. It invites your mind, your heart, and your body into prayer.

For three weeks during Advent we will look at why we pray, how we

pray and what gets in our way of pray.

November 30th, December 7th, & December 14th

In the parish hall at 5:00PM OR 7:00 PM

Every day we are surrounded by the colors of God’s creation. Over the

three weeks we will learn how these colors evoke emotions and/or

associated with certain characteristics. We will learn how to

incorporate this awareness of colors into our daily prayer life.

This program is being offered twice each evening so those who prefer

to attend BEFORE the healing service may do so at 5:00PM. For those

who would like to attend it at a later time the same session will be held

AFTER the healing service and meal at approximately 7:00PM. Sessions

will last about 45 minutes.

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STEPHEN MINISTRY MINUTE

Well Done Good and Faithful Servants

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

(Galatians 6:2)

The words “one another” and “each other” are used more than 50 times in the New

Testament. What this tells us is that God did not create us to be independent. He created us to be

interdependent. We are made in his own image – to be loving, forgiving, and caring. He created

us to need one another. “It is not good that man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18).

The Bible does not simply say “bear others burdens”, or “love others”. The “one another” and

“each other” phrase has a reciprocal meaning: I will bear your burdens, and you will bear mine. In

this sense, openness to Christian caring is not just being willing to care for and help others. It also

carries the oftentimes more difficult meaning of being willing to be cared for and helped by others.

It has been six months since we commissioned our first group of Stephen Ministers here at St.

Philip’s. Six months of growing, learning, and caring. It has truly been an amazing six months,

and over the next couple of months you will read more from our Stephen Ministers about the

ways in which they have grown, the things they have learned from their experiences, and what

“caring for each other” means to them.

We ask that you continue to pray for “each other”, for our Stephen Ministers and the work they

are doing, for their care receivers, and for those among us who may be hurting in some way and

might benefit from the one-to-one Christian care of a Stephen Minister. And when you see one of

our Stephen Ministers, be sure to thank them for a job well done as a good and faithful servant

fulfilling the laws of Christ.

Gene & Martha Myers (842-5160)

Stephen Leaders

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„Tis soon to be the season of Christmas music. In days past one could not escape the loop of seasonal

tunes that played non-stop in retail businesses. That is not the case nowadays. One of America‟s largest

retailers no longer plays music during the Christmas season or anytime. For folks who still listen to radio it

is possible to find a station or two that play seasonal music beginning after Thanksgiving. While I was

thinking about this, curiosity got the best of me, so I Googled the top 25 Christmas carols in the U.S. and to

my surprise only one title on the list did I consider a Christmas carol, Silent Night. The remainders of titles

listed are secular and what I would describe as songs. Is the lack of sacred tunes a reflection of the

predominance of our secular culture?

According to the dictionary a carol is a joyful hymn or religious song, especially one celebrating the

birth of Christ. The first Christmas carols are attributed to Italian friars that lived with St. Francis of Assisi.

Somehow I cannot accept The Christmas Song and Santa Claus Is Coming to Town as carols. It is true they

are infectious tunes that I enjoy hearing and singing because they take me back to times past and special

family memories. How can it be that Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Come All ye Faithful, Angels We

Have Heard on High, The First Noel, or What Child Is This? did not make the list? Do the unchurched

hear these carols anymore? Many of these carols succinctly yet beautifully convey the nativity story and

express the anticipation and joy of the Messiah‟s coming, in recent vernacular, “the reason for the season.”

I hope that during this Christmas season you will celebrate the coming of light and hope into our world

by singing all of your favorite “carols.”

Debbie

December 03, 2011 - 7:30 PM

Handel and Bach for the Advent Season The LBS Chamber Orchestra, a combined chorus of area singers and outstanding vocal soloists present a pair of seasonal favorites: J.S. Bach's popular Advent cantata,

Sleepers, Wake!(Cantata No. 140), and portions of Handel's oratorio, Messiah.

Where: First Presbyterian Church Great Hall, 3810 Robert Grissom Parkway,

Myrtle Beach, SC

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SENIOR WARDEN’S COLUMN

The photo sessions have been completed for our new Pictorial Directory and the committee

has looked at the proofs. Participation was definitely short of the 100% hoped for. The proofs

are back and been reviewed by the committee. After a few corrections they will again view the

proofs and the new directories should be in our hands by mid January. I am looking forward to

having the new Directory so I can put names with faces.

On October 30th, St. Philip’s held it annual blood drive with a pretty good turn out. It was quite

a day since we also had the Youth Choir from the First Baptist Church to entertain us with

delightful music. This was an effort spearheaded by our Evangelism & Outreach Commission

and was very successful.

We are gearing up for a wonderful and busy holiday season. On December 4th St. Philip’s will

hold its Annual Meeting and covered dish brunch at the Community Center after a combined

10:00 AM service. December 16th we will all enjoy our Christmas Play followed by the Christmas

Party at the Community Center. On Thursday December 22nd

, my birthday by the way, the

Greening of the Church will take place at 10:00 AM. If you are interested in helping with this

event, please sign up to help the Flower Guild plan.

On Christmas Eve we will have a 5:00 PM service. At 9:30 PM there will be Christmas Carols

in the Church followed by the 10:00 PM service. Christmas is a little special since it falls on

Sunday. There will be one service at 9:00 AM.

Since this is my last column, I want to take a minute to reflect on the past two years. Serving

as your Senior Warden has been a truly rewarding experience. We have a very committed and

active Vestry and in addition members of the congregation have been extremely active and willing

to help with anything. I have found St. Philip’s a wonderful place to worship. The relationships I

have found here will remain with me the rest of my life. Thank you for everything you have done

to make my tenure as Senior Warden so pleasant.

I am so hoping I will get to see many of you at some of the many holiday events. I wish you

and yours a very blessed Christmas season.

Yours in Christ,

Mo Beers

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THE WORSHIP CORNER

The opportunities to worship present themselves in a myriad of ways, as diverse as the

members of church. The most obvious examples are the “corporate” worship services that occur every Sunday and other holy days throughout the year, where the priest leads the services with the active support of Eucharistic ministers, readers, ushers, greeters, choristers, acolytes, flower guild members, altar guild members, and others. The leaders of each of these groups give of their time and talents as a contribution toward the worship experience. As the seasons pass, the numbers of participants in these groups change due to various reasons. Currently, the number of participants has decreased by approximately 20% over the past 18 months, resulting in this request for prayerful consideration by every member of the congregation to become active in one of these groups. The time commitment involved in participation is far outweighed by the blessings received.

For those interested in becoming a Eucharistic Minister, Visitor, or Reader, there is a training

session scheduled for Saturday morning, January 14th, at 10:00 AM. Those interested in

participating are invited to contact the church office or me (457-9941 or [email protected]). For those considering serving as ushers and/or greeters, please do not hesitate to contact the

church office, me, or Gene Meyers. Training sessions are in the process of being scheduled. Persons interested in singing with the choir are invited to attend practice on any Wednesday

evening at 7:00 PM in the Carr-Jorgensen House. Persons interested in becoming acolytes are invited to contact Ricky Evans, the church office,

or me. A note regarding this ministry is that there is not an age limit (adults are invited). Those interested in the altar guild or flower guild and invited to contact Harriet Powell and

Meezie Childs, respectively. Thank you, in advance, for your prayers and consideration in participating in any of these

ministries. Peace, always. John Reinsburrow

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Stewardship Corner

As we come to the end of the year please make sure that your 2011 pledges are up to date. Pledges are our major source of revenue to support our mission and ministry. Looking forward into 2012 there still is a number of members that have not pledged for 2012. The Vestry is working on our budget now for 2012 and as usual there are more requirements than resources available. If we do not meet our revenue projections then some of our programs will suffer. We realize that there are many demands placed on each of our personal budgets but hope we you will consider contributions to our church as a top priority. We will make the 2012 budget available after it is approved by your Vestry. Bill Bittenbender 253-9846 Bill Meiners 253-9642

Report Month: October, 2011

Month Actual

Month Budget

Month Difference

YTD Actual

YTD Budget

YTD Difference

Revenues $42,073 $36,167 $5,906 $346,777 $362,467 ($15,690)

Expenses $36,675 $32,892 ($3,783) $350,338 $348,621 ($1,717)

Net Revenue

$5,398 $3275 $2,123 ($3,561) $13,846 ($17,407)

Wayne John, Finance Officer

DON’T FORGET - DECEMBER 31ST IS THE DEADLINE

FOR MAKING CONTRIBUTIONS TO YOUR PLEDGE!

Contributions to St. Philip's in the form of pledges, outreach,

building fund, memorials, etc. must be received no later than

December 31st to qualify as a 2011 tax credit.

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SAVE THE DATE AND PITCH IN…

2012 HEART & SOUL AUCTION

The St. Philip’s family will be collectively sponsoring and conducting a live and silent auction to help raise funds for St. Philip’s outreach activities/initiatives and to help reduce the church’s mortgage commitment level – which in turn will help us target other funds for stimulating our community’s spiritual growth. The upcoming Heart & Soul Auction will be held on February 19, 2012 from 4-7 PM at the St. James Community Center. We all need to pitch in for this to be a success. Help is needed with Auction Items (Shay Watkins); Food & Beverage (Ida Parker); and Decorations, Setup & Event Logistics (Wanda Luey). Help with securing Live and Silent Auction items is especially needed starting now. Please pitch in with your Hearts & Souls….And stay tuned for future announcements and reminders…. Contacts – Shay Watkins – [email protected], (910) 470-0107 Ida Parker – [email protected] ,(910) 278-6719 Wanda Luey – [email protected], (910) 253-9354 Jacquie McNutt – [email protected], (910) 253-4112.

Bazaar Buzz

Ladies of St. Philip’s thanks to your hard work the 2011 Bazaar was a success. Jane Mitchell was a great chairman and we all owe her our thanks for her tireless effort. She is a master of organization.

We now need to go forward with plans for the 2012 Bazaar. Please put January 20th at 10am on your calendar for the organizational meeting. We will meet in the Parish Hall. Please come early for tea and coffee and goodies. Bring your thoughts and ideas to make the Bazaar the best it can be. We so appreciate the creativity of our members and encourage as many people as possible to attend. The fellowship generated by our efforts is wonderful.

Please call me at 854-0047 if you would like to discuss any ideas for new products or just anything concerning the Bazaar.

Susan Spann

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Area Ministry Celebrates First Year

In December2010, St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church in Shallotte opened its Neighbor

to Neighbor Ministry, which uses a three-pronged approach to help others. The Neighbor-to-

Neighbor Coat Closet provides coats for children and adults. Its Orthopedic Lending Closet

offers wheelchairs, walkers, canes and other items. And its work with the Benefit Bank of North

Carolina pairs counselors with local residents for free preparation of tax returns.

The Rev. Jean Miller, deacon, said the ministry has been active from the start. "No sooner do

we run out than we go down there and find bags of coats from other churches," she said.

"There's just no end."

She said those in need of coats are referred by local church food pantries and Brunswick Family

Assistance, a private nonprofit agency offering several programs to low-income families in

Brunswick County. Workers at BFA provide families with vouchers that can be turned into

warm outerwear by volunteers at the church. More than 25 volunteers mend and clean the coats

before they are dispensed.

The orthopedic lending closet gets its referrals by word of mouth. Free use of wheelchairs,

crutches, canes and other equipment is available to those unable to afford the items, providing

literal support for those facing temporary and permanent disabilities.

Through a partnership with the Benefit Bank of North Carolina, the ministry is able to provide

free income tax preparation, guiding qualified wage-earners through the maze of IRS forms.

Those with income under $60,000 annually are eligible for help.

The Neighbor-to-Neighbor Ministry is housed at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church,

4941 Main St., Shallotte, and is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays.

For more information or to help, call 754-9313.

MEET FOR BREAKFAST DECEMBER 11TH

8:3O - 10:00 AM in the Parish Hall

We welcome all members of St. Philip's, their guests

and all visitors.

MENU: Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Grits, Biscuits,

Assorted Dry Cereal, Coffee, Orange Juice, Milk

Sponsored by St. Philip's Men's Group

No Charge in December

Contributions for the Food Pantry (food or cash) gratefully accepted

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As a member of Sara Smith Chapter, Daughters of the King, we take a pledge of

prayer, service and evangelism. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, our vision as

Daughters of the King is to know Jesus Christ, to make HIM known to others and to

become reflections of Gods love throughout the

world.

In the season of Advent, with bright lights, and

pretty colors and wonderful music, how can we

reflect God's love? To me, God's love is bright and

shiny and music of angels that we can pass on in our

actions. Advent is a time of giving to others in HIS

name and to show random acts of kindness, all in

HIS name. What a wonderful gift! Will you care enough to be a follower, and give

the gift?

Priscilla Wheeler, Daughters of the King

Camp Trinity is a summer program sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of East Carolina to serve the 74 parishes

of the diocese. Camp Trinity is proud to be accredited by the American Camping Association. Developed exclusively for

the camp industry, this nationally recognized association focuses on program quality and health and safety issues, and

requires camp to regularly submit every facet of its operation to an independent appraisal by camp experts.

Camp Trinity offers young people (grades 3-12) an opportunity to experience camping in an enjoyable and beautiful

setting along Bogue Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Campers share in a Christian program that helps them grow

spiritually and emotionally and provides them opportunities to develop new interests, skills, and friendships.

Applications are available in the Christian Education office for those who are

interested in attending Camp Trinity. Sessions fill quickly so act now.

THE PARISH OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED December 23 - January 2nd.

We will return to our regular schedule on Tuesday, January 3rd.

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December Birthdays

1st Rev. Fiona Bergstrom

Karen Holbrook

2nd Larry Dempster

Brenda Birmelin

3rd Edward Sutton

Meg Davis

4th Roy Daniel

Jane Korczynski

Noah Huntley

6th Fred Lesh

Martha Myers

Mark Beem

Olivia Kibler

7th Sarah Benjamin

8th Andrea Veri

9th Bobbie Fuchs

10th Emily Youngblood

11th Jane Edwards

13th Jennifer Gould

15th Jenna Baldiga

16th Lee Wester

Skip Teeters

18th Dana Richardson

20nd Randy Towery

21st Louise Mead

John Ziblut

22nd Mo Beers

Judy Bowers

James Sutherland

Amanda Holland

23rd Pamela Rainey

24th Frank Lai

Magdalena Aude

25th Thad Wester

Jean Myers

26th Brad Carlson

28th Deborah Fosbury

Mike Burke

Marvin Hamer

29th Debbie Raker

30th David Fosbury

31st Riley MacKenzie

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TREE OF LIGHTS

Remember someone special this Christmas by donating $5 for St. Philip’s Tree of Lights. Lights will be displayed on the grounds of St. Philip's Church. Each light will represent a special loved one in your life and the lights will shine throughout the Christmas season. Complete the form below and place in the alms basin on Sunday or mail to:

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church P.O Box 10476

Southport, NC 28461

Be sure to print below the name as you would like it to appear in the Christmas Eve bulletin. One dedication per $5 donation, please.

Deadline for bulletin insert is MONDAY, DECEMBER 5TH

****************************************************************************** I WOULD LIKE TO PURCHASE A LIGHT:

□ In Honor Of: □ In Memory Of:

Donated by: Mail Letter to: A letter will be sent to the person you have indicated above

advising them of your gift. All proceeds will be used for

special needs in our community. Your participation will make

this event a “bright” part of our Christmas at

St. Philip’s. Sponsored by the Men’s Group of St. Philip’s

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Remember someone special this Christmas by donating $12 for poinsettias and other holiday greenery for the altar. Complete the form below and place in the alms basin on Sunday or mail to:

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church P.O Box 10476

Southport, NC 28461

Be sure to print below the name as you would like it to appear in the Christmas Eve bulletin. One dedication per $12 donation, please.

Deadline for bulletin insert is MONDAY, DECEMBER 12TH

I WOULD LIKE TO PURCHASE A POINSETTIA:

□ In honor of

□ In memory of Given by: Please print all information clearly.

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Church Organization

Bishop of the Diocese of East Carolina: The Rt. Rev. Clifton Daniel III

Assisting Bishop: The Rt. Rev. Santosh Marray

Rector: The Rev. Barry P. Kubler Organist/Choirmaster: Debbie Skillman

Parish Secretary: Natasha Tatum Sexton: George Ball

Deacon: Henrietta Williams Communication Lyn Sutton

Director of Christian Education: Millie Hart Episcopal Relief & Development

Stephen Leaders: Martha & Gene Myers Representative: Jacob Pfohl

Vestry

Senior Warden: Mo Beers Clerk: Dana Richardson

Junior Warden: Tom Trivett Finance Officer: Wayne John

2009-2011: Mo Beers, Linda Brinson, Bill Meiners, John Reinsburrow

2010-2012: Bill Bittenbender, Joan Hayes, Tina Powers, Tom Trivett

2011-2013: Debbie Evans, Thomas Harrelson, Jake Pfohl, Lorraine Richardson

Philippian

Mike & Kathy Burke

Email: [email protected]

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church

East Moore & Dry Streets

PO Box 10476

Southport, NC 28461

Return Service Requested

Southport NC 28461

US Postage Paid

Permit #10

NON-PROFIT