February, 2013 • Volume 138, Issue No. 2

By Scott Lenoir

The Diocese of Mississippi received surprising and sad news from its bishopat the opening of the 186th Annual Council in Jackson on February 1st.

The Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, III, announced the beginning of a processwhich will lead to the election of a Bishop Coadjutor on May 3, 2014. Gray saidthat he plans to continue as Diocesan Bishop until February 2015, at which timethe new bishop will succeed him.

“After considerable prayer, conversation and discernment, I have becomeincreasingly aware that I have done about as much as I can do for this church asyour bishop. The challenges of the next decade or so will require more energy,more creativity and more passion than is left in my tank . . . I am formally and offi-cially issuing a call for the election of a bishop coadjutor who would service for abrief time with me . . . and formally assume the role as Bishop Diocesan at the188th Annual Council” said Gray in his annual address to council.

Gray noted with a smile, “I ain’t dead yet, and I plan to continue working ashard as I can until I hand over the diocesan crozier to my successor in 2015.”

Duncan Gray, III has served as the ninth Diocesan Bishop for 10 years, hav-ing served two years before as Bishop Coadjutor. Prior to being elected bishop in2000, he was rector of St. Peter’s Church in Oxford.

The diocese’s elected standing committee will oversee the nomination andelection process of the next bishop.

The Rev. Scott Lenoir is the editor of The Mississippi Episcopalian.

Bishop calls for coadjutor

Local option Continued on page 4

Bishop Gray, III

By Scott Lenoir

The diocese’s elected standingcommittee will oversee the nomina-tion and election of the next bish-op which will take place in 2014.The actual work of the nomina-tion process begins now and willbe led by a nominations commit-tee. The election and consecra-tion work will be directed by atransition committee.

Both the nominating andtransition committees will be namedby the end of March according toStanding Committee President, the Rev.David Knight. Knight presented a time line ofthe search process and election to the 186thAnnual Council in Jackson on Saturday, Feb. 2nd.

According to Knight, the standing commit-tee posted a nomination form for both the nomi-nations committee and the transition committeeon the diocesan website February 8th.Hardcopies of the forms will be distributed to

convocational deans who will pass themalong to parishes and missions through-out the diocese.

“Any lay person, who is a com-municant of a parish or mission inthis diocese, 16 years-old and up,may be nominated to serve. Allclergy — presbyters and deaconsalike — who are canonically resi-dent in this diocese, may be nomi-nated,” said Knight.

All who wish to be consideredto be on the nominating or the tran-

sition committee must complete anomination form and give it to their rec-

tor, vicar, or priest-in-charge. The clergy willforward all forms to their respective convoca-

tional dean no later than February 28, 2013. If a parish or mission is vacant, forms

should be submitted directly to the convocationaldean.

Clergy who are discerning whether to enterthe bishop election process should not apply.

Nomination and transitioncommittees now being formed

By Scott Lenoir

In his annual address to the 186thAnnual Council in Jackson, the Rt. Rev.Duncan Gray, III announced a process thatcan used by parishes and missions which canlead to an authorization by the bishop toallow clergy to perform a liturgy of same-gen-der blessings until the next GeneralConvention of the Episcopal Church in 2015.

By canon, priests have the authority ofall matters of worship in their own congrega-tion, but due to the “sensitive nature of thisdecision, I am simply requiring serious andprayerful consultation with the lay leadershipof the congregation,” said Gray to the dele-gates, alternates and clergy gathered at theopening service of council at the JacksonConvention Complex.

Citing the Standing LiturgicalCommission of the Episcopal Church’s declaration that the blessing is not marriage, Gray reiterated that this liturgy for blessing isnot the sacrament of marriage. “I will take the Standing Liturgical Commission at its word.The state of Mississippi will not authorize such a rite and my own conscience would notaccept it [if it were a marriage],” said Gray.

Bishop Gray, III announceslocal option for blessing ofsame-gender relationships

Bishop Duncan Gray, III

Find out how you can helpprovide relief to thoserecovering from theHattiesburg tornado.Log on to www.dioms.org

2 The Mississippi Episcopalian

OUR DIOCESE

February 2013

I woke up thismorning and felt like Ihad been on a sugar-high all weekend, butquickly realized that Ihad actually been on a“Council-high.” What ablessing it is to see somany wonderful friends

and fellow Episcopalians, to share with them inactivities so important to our church. The olderI become, the more important such occasionsare to me.

For those absent from the 2013 Council, Iurge you to consider becoming more involved inyour parish and extending that involvement tothe statewide level as a participant in theEpiscopal Dioceses of Mississippi’s AnnualCouncil meeting.

I again thank our editor of The MississippiEpiscopalian for allowing me to take a couple ofmonths off to assist my daughter in her fightagainst esophageal cancer. So many of you havebeen praying for her, and let me say, prayer doeswork. On her last PET scan the original tumor isstill there, but is significantly smaller and not asactive as it once was. Also, the spots that wereon the liver and the abdominal wall have disap-peared. Thanks be to God! We know she stillhas a fight on her hands, but with her attitudeand your prayers, she will overcome this dread-ful disease.

With the observation of Lent upon us,much of the coming activities surround thisimportant period. It begins with the griddlesbeing fired up and tons of pancakes beingcooked in parishes from one end of the state tothe other for consumption during ShroveTuesday meals. Not everyone is cooking pan-cakes, but be it pancakes, red beans and rice or

chili, the focus will be on eating. Join in yourlocal festivities and then come to the AshWednesday services offered by your parish.

Lenten studies among the parishes are toonumerous to list, but you are urged to examineyour parish newsletters or to call the parishoffice to learn about what is being offered dur-ing this period of self-reflection. Lent is not justabout “giving up” something in your life. It canalso include the “taking on” of something new inyour life, i.e., a Lenten study.

Okay, let’s see what is happening across thestate during the coming weeks and months.

St. Andrew’s/Jackson is supporting itsyouth’s work at Stewpot through hosting the10th Annual Capitol City Dinner Dance as afundraiser. On Friday, Feb. 8th, diners anddancers will be feted to filet mignon and smokedsalmon dinners and the great music of The RedHots.

St. Andrew’s/Jackson will also host thenewly formed Metro Male chorus and the MSBoy Choir in a concert benefiting the DiverseCity Diner. It will be held in the St. Andrew’snave on Feb. 15, at 7:30 PM. This Metro MaleChorus and the MS Boy Choir will be perform-ing many selections including a setting of VachelLindsey’s poem, “General Will Booth Enters intoHeaven”.

On Feb. 10, St. Mary’s/Bolton will hostGena Everitt, soprano, as she performs Bach’sCantata No. 82. Everitt is a voice instructor atBelhaven University. The service will begin withEvening Prayer at 4:00 P.M., with the concertand a reception following.

St. James’/Jackson will be the site of theNorth Jackson Rotary Club’s “Have-A-Heart”Pancake Breakfast fundraiser on Saturday,February 16, 8-11 A.M. This annual event is theRotary’s major fundraiser, with the monies beingdonated to a variety of local charities. As anadded bonus, anyone donating blood to theMississippi Blood Services bus, which will be onsite, will receive a free pancake breakfast.

St. Columb’s/Ridgeland has a number ofEpiscopal logo items available in its gift shop.Sweatshirts, t-shirts, jewelry and more are avail-able to anyone interested. All proceeds from thesales go toward the installation of two large con-vection ovens in the church kitchen.

St. John’s/Laurel is calling upon its men tostep forward to help the parish’s men’s basket-ball team, which will be a part of the Men’sChurch League Basketball program in Laurel.

United Blood Services of Tupelo will be inStarkville on March 10, from 9:30 A.M. until12:30 P.M., as Resurrection/Starkville conductsits first sponsored blood drive for 2013.

“Sunday is the time we come to church tobow down before the Lord, to let go of all thatkeeps us from fully believing, loving and work-ing in His name, and the time to be refilled withhis power. It is a time when heaven and earthbend to each other and kiss — how amazing thatwe are the recipients of that and the joy and loveof God.” The Rev. Mary Berry, St.Matthew’s/Kosciusko.

“Every Lent, I hear comments about howdreary and sad the music is. This is simply nottrue! Sure, many Lenten hymns and anthems arein minor keys and have penitential themes, but ifyou take a closer look at the texts, you’ll findmessages of hope and redemption.... I doabsolutely believe that it’s important to maintain

a liturgical aesthetic of austerity throughout Lentto focus our attention on Christ’s suffering andpassion, but this makes the contrast of Easterthat much more dramatic and tremendouslyexciting! Enjoy the tension of Lent as we movetoward Easter. This tension is essential to us asa people who live by the rhythms of the liturgicalyear. Peace.” Jessica Nelson, Organist/ChoirMaster, All Saints’/Tupelo

The Rev. Paul Stephens, All Saints’/Tupelo— “I offer the following prayer, written byGretchen Olheiser and found in Women’sUncommon Prayers, as a way to mark the begin-ning of the season of Lent and to open yourheart to God and to God’s healing power andforgiving touch. ‘Stepping from the brightnessof Epiphany I enter an unfamiliar place called“Lent.” My eyes are slow to adjust to thechange. I blink back tears and stand still won-dering if my eyes are open or closed, for nothingvisible lies before me. My senses tell me thereare objects ahead, prized places, and sacredspaces. There is no sense of urgency; time hasfallen away leaving forty days and forty nights toexplore this unknown, yet somehow familiarplace; touching, feeling, knowing holy moments.May your Lent be a journey of discovery of selfand an enriching of your relationship withGod.’”

Continually published for 138 years in the Diocese of Mississippi

Official news organ of the Bishop and the Diocese of Mississippi118 N. Congress Street - P.O. Box 23107

Jackson, Mississippi 39225-3107

The Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, IIINinth Bishop of Mississippi

The Rev. Scott LenoirEditor

The Mississippi Episcopalian (USPS 024755) is published monthly by the Episcopal Diocese ofMississippi, 118 N. Congress St., Jackson, MS 39201. Periodical postage paid at Jackson, MS.POSTMASTER: Send change of address to the Mississippi Episcopalian, P.O. Box 23107,Jackson, MS 39225-3107. In giving changes of address send the old address as well as thenew. We cannot be responsible for the return of manuscripts or photographs.

Notes & QuotesBy Jim Carrington

ORDINARY CONCERNS

The Mississippi Episcopalian 3February 2013

January 1 — Office closed. Spend the day aroundthe house watching football and parades.January 2 — Breakfast with bishop colleaguesfrom Roman Catholic and United MethodistChurches. Morning meeting with Sudanese med-ical team preparing to leave later in the week.

Afternoon appointments with the Rev. BillieAbraham, Ms. Alice Perry and Mr. Patrick Perkins. January 3 — Briefly in the office in the morning,then pick up Dr. Frank Criddle and Peter Malualfor drive to Memphis where we will leave tomor-row for our diocese’s first medical mission to theDiocese of Twic East in South Sudan.

Overnight in Memphis. Our hotel is directlyacross the street from Graceland and dramaticallyreflects the culture and personality of “The King.”January 4 — We load four Mississippians – Dr.Frank Criddle (physician from St. Andrew’sJackson), Dr. Addie Henderson (physician fromSt. Paul’s, Columbus), Peter Biar Malual (pharma-cist from St. Andrew’s, Jackson, and one of theSudanese Lost Boys) and me – along with eightlarge trunks of medicines and other supplies on aDelta flight to Kenya via Detroit and Amsterdam.Our Sudanese adventure has begun.January 5 — After stops in Detroit andAmsterdam (where we meet two additional mem-bers of our team from Nebraska) we arrive inNairobi, Kenya, late in the evening. Some difficul-ty with customs getting our medicines into thecountry, but that is resolved in time to get us tothe Methodist Guest House in Nairobi aroundmidnight, though my body is not really sure whattime it is.January 6 — We had planned to spend this dayrecovering from jet lag at the Methodist GuestHouse, but in the morning we are paid a visit byRebecca, Bishop Ezekiel Diing’s wife, and the Rev.David Chol, pastor of the Sudanese congregationhere in Nairobi. I am invited to preach at the wor-ship service that begins in a little less than twohours.

I accept the invitation, then hurriedly try toput together a basic sermon outline.

Wonderful, multi generational worship. Meet anumber of Sudanese with relatives in the U.S.Overnight in Methodist Guest House, Nairobi.January 7 — Fly to Juba, South Sudan. Small andvery crowded and confused airport makes entryinto this new and fledgling country very difficult.

Some problems getting our trunks of medi-cines through customs, but as he did in Kenya,Peter Malual talks at length with officials and theyare released to us.

Overnight at the Guest House of the EpiscopalChurch at the Sudan. As I learned on my last visitto the Sudan, this guest house is a remarkablegathering place for all kinds of people from thiscountry and the church.

After dinner we have impromptu conversa-tions with a number of people, including theArchbishop’s Chancellor, whose home had beenburned the night before by raiders; Bishop Adunufrom the Nuba Mountains region – an area nearthe border of Sudan and South Sudan, the sceneof ongoing and intense aerial bombings. He tellsme of Christmas Eve services where thousandsgathered outside (without lights) and refused toleave even as bombs were exploding all around.Brief conversation later with Mr. Larry Duffee, amissionary from Virginia who came here with mygroup three years ago – and stayed. “I’ve got to go

back soon,” he tells me, “or I’llnever return. I’m growing soattached to these people.”January 8 — We board a charter

flight to Panyagor in the morning. Travel by roadwould take two days because of the condition ofthe roads. The flight takes a little over an hour.

We are met in Panyagor by our host, BishopEzekiel Diing, and the Commissioner (somethingakin to a governor) of Jonglei state. After greet-ings by the commissioner we travel to Maar, thecenter of the Diocese of Twic East.

We are greeted in a dramatic way as we enterthe church compound in Maar – large numbers ofclergy, Mothers’ Union representatives and towns-people sing and dance to our arrival. Very special.

The Diocese of Twic East is in the midst of aweek-long event that seems to be a combinationof our Diocesan Council and Clergy Conference. Later in the afternoon, we go to the clinic tobegin setting up for the next several days.January 9 — Medical team begins work at clinic.I preach at the morning worship with the clergyand members of the Mothers’ Union. A tribalelder/chief makes a passionate and eloquentresponse to my sermon as he pleads for unity andreconciliation.

Explore the village of Maar on my own. Veryimprobable internet connection here in Maar isthe product of grant from Trinity Church, WallStreet. Make connection with Kathy and office.Learn that the Rev. Pat Sanders, a very specialpriest and mentor to me, has died at age 91. “Mayhe go from strength to strength in the life of per-fect service.”

Late afternoon we are taken to Wangulei, ourfoster daughter’s home village where we areshown water wells and a girls’ school, gifts fromthe Diocese of Nebraska. Visit another clinic inneighboring community to hear familiar stories oflack of medicines and trained personnel.

Visit Trinity Cathedral, still under constructionin Maar, and a cattle camp being established near-by.

Learn of cattle raid just south of where we are.70,000 cattle stolen and two men killed includingthe father of our host priest, John Chol Atem. Sadand painful moment.January 10 — While doctors continue their clinicwork, I participate in morning worship, then visita neighboring clinic and a school in Wanguleibuilt by U.S. residents of the Dinka Ayual clan towhich my foster daughter belongs.

In the afternoon our team travels to the site ofthe cattle raid for the funeral of the slain elders.We observe an extended conversation among thevillagers – elders and others alike – over thefuture of their village. Fascinating culturalmoment.

In the evening over dinner we listen toPresident Obama’s first inaugural address – aniPod gift from a young man in the village. I amtold that the President’s grandfather came fromthis diocese before migrating to Kenya.January 11—Intense meetings with BishopEzekiel and his clergy continue. He has sharedwith me much of their ongoing discussions andhas asked for advice during this week.

I preach and celebrate at the closing Eucharist–a very special moment. Late afternoon time gift-giving. Motorcycles and bicycles are very practicaland much needed gifts from the Diocese ofNebraska.

I make commitment to take CAT scan photosof Bishop Ezekiel’s son to University MedicalCenter for a second opinion on the diagnosis of a

brain tumor on this four year-old little boy. I bap-tized Paul at St. Andrew’s during Bishop Ezekiel’svisit in 2009 and thus feel a special kinship.January 12—At morning devotion Bishop Ezekielgives a very moving testimonial to his faith andGod’s claim on him.

We say our goodbyes and are driven to the airstrip in Panyagor where we catch charter flightback to Juba.

The team eats dinner at local restaurant withBishop Ezekiel's wife, Rebecca, and our priesthost, John Chol Atem.

Overnight in the Episcopal Church’s GuestHouse. As I go to bed I am told that tomorrow Iwill be preaching at the largest Episcopal congre-gation in South Sudan – Emmanuel Parish.January 13 — The team walks to EmmanuelParish where we are part of a congregation offourteen-hundred+. Somewhat intimidated by theover-flowing crowd in a former movie theater andmy lack of preparation time, I preach as well as Icould.

Following the service we are taken to a meet-ing with government officials who are from theTwic East regions. They share with us their per-spective on the needs of that region and thank usfor our presence and commitment.

In the evening, we have dinner at a restaurantdirectly on the Nile River – a very special way toconclude our time in Sudan.January 14 — After negotiating the very chaoticJuba airport with the help of our hosts – howhelpful they have been – we board a flight toNairobi.

Arrive at the Methodist Guest House in Nairobiwhere I begin to wind down.Overnight in the Guest House.January15 — Since our flight will not leave until11:00 p.m. the team decides to use the day to visitparts of the Nairobi National Park. Part of the dayis spent at an elephant orphanage and the GiraffeCenter – both extraordinary places.

We say our goodbyes to Peter Malual who willbe staying in Africa another two months with fami-ly and friends. This Sudanese young man, in addi-tion to being our pharmacist, has been the heart,soul, and cultural interpreter of this mission.

Our flight is delayed. Leave after midnight forreturn to U.S.January 16 — After stops in Amsterdam andDetroit, we arrive in Memphis in the early morn-ing.

We drive home quickly trying to beat the pre-dicted snow and ice.

It has been an extraordinarily important jour-ney for me. It will take some time to have a fullperspective, but it has been a great gift to mysoul.January 17 — Early morning session withEpiscopal legislators postponed due to snow andice. Dealing somewhat with “jet lag.” I have after-noon appointment with coordinators for JourneyPartners, our joint initiative with the UnitedMethodist Church, to train spiritual directors. Alsoappointments with the Rev. Van Bankston and theRev. William Ndishabandi.January 18 — In office all day catching up on avariety of matters and correspondence. Morningappointments with the Rev. Bob Blanton and theRev. Chuck Culpepper.January 19 — At the Chapel of the Cross inMadison, I meet with the mission team planning atrip to the Bishop Masereka Christian Foundationin Uganda. Following lunch, I pray with them andcommission them in the name of the diocese fortheir work in Uganda.

January 20 — Visitation in the morning to St.Christopher’s Church of the Ascension in Jackson.Delighted to see that they have settled nicely intotheir new facility. They recognize that their nextchallenge is to pray and think creatively about theuse of the facility to enhance their mission inJackson. I preach and celebrate and enjoy a finelunch in the parish hall.

In the afternoon, I drive to Crystal Springs fora visitation to Holy Trinity. I preach, celebrate andconfirm two in this small and historic church.Dinner follows in the home of parishioners. Warmand friendly evening.

Home to Jackson in the evening.January 21 — Pick up my father and he, Kathyand I drive to Meridian for the memorial servicefor the Rev. Pat Sanders. At St. Paul’s, I preachand celebrate. Pat was a long-time mentor of minebeginning during my high school years. I will misshis wisdom and humor. This church is better forhis witness. “May he go from strength to strengthin the life of perfect service.”

Home to Jackson after a luncheon at St. Paul’swith family and friends.January 22 — Staff meetings throughout Tuesdaymorning. Annual consultation with the Rev.Richard Middleton. Afternoon session withCanons McCormick and Johnson as well asChancellor Granville Tate as we talked throughour entire schedule for Diocesan Council makingsure that everything was in as much order as pos-sible.January 23 — At home working on DiocesanCouncil matters in the morning. Over lunch andinto the afternoon, I meet with the Iona SchoolTask Force. I am delighted that the Rev. BethFoose of Grace Church, Canton, has accepted myappointment as Dean of the School to replace theRev. Bryan Owen who now resides in BatonRouge.

Annual visitation to St. Alexis, Jackson. Ipreach, celebrate, confirm six and receive one inthe midst of a large crowd. Only at St. Alexis is thebishop’s chair a rocking chair!

Pot luck dinner and good fellowship follows.January 24 – At home in the morning working onmy address to Council. Afternoon with theTrustees of the Diocese to talk about fundingrequired for the transition to a new bishop – anannouncement that I will make at next weekend’sgathering of Council.January 25 — Continue to work on Counciladdress in the morning. Afternoon appointmentsthe Rev. Jennifer Deaton and Mr. Bill Horne. Lateafternoon session with the Rev. Jeff Reich.

In the evening Kathy and I go to Gray Centerto enjoy dinner and fellowship with the CampBratton-Green Alumni Association.

Return home with Harper and Sadie Gray aswe assume role of grandparents and babysittersfor the next day.January 26 — With family throughout the day.January 27 — Drive to Vicksburg for visitation toHoly Trinity and to officiate at the Celebration ofa New Ministry with congregation and their newrector, the Rev. Beth Palmer. In addition I preach,celebrate, baptize two and receive one. Music isfurnished by a local jazz band. Very high spiritedand upbeat music. Not sure if I’d want to do itevery Sunday, but it was great for this occasion.

Lunch with the rector, vestry and wardensafter the service.

Drive to Sumner for a meeting with the vestryof Church of the Advent. Home to Jackson in theevening.

The Bishop’s Journal

4 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2013

OUR DIOCESE

Christopher C. Turner

TURNER INSURANCE

By Carol MeadHistory tells us that Hernán Cortés destroyed nearly all of his

ships once he reached Mexico. The explorer took that drastic stepto prevent his men from abandoning the expedition and escapingto Cuba. He left one ship seaworthy to send the King of Spain hisshare of the Aztec treasure.

Much of the difficulty of living a human life for God comesfrom the continual availability of “ships” which we can use toescape. We become reliant on human ways to find validation andmeaning; even the best of Christians rely partially on such vessels.Religious practice can even become an escape if we focus on reli-gion and forget the goal of loving God and neighbor.

In Matthew, Jesus spoke of such modes of escape when hequoted Isaiah’s words, “‘For this people’s heart has grown dull, and their ears are hard of hearing, andthey have shut their eyes; so that they might not look with their eyes, and listen with their ears, andunderstand with their heart....’” When something interferes with or complicates our relationship withGod, we may lose sharpness in our spiritual senses of sight and hearing. We find escape routes whichdistract us from the original goal of the expedition: to find God.

Rather than thinking of Jesus’ words as a division into “us and them,” it helps to consider thatsuch pronouncements apply to all of us at one time or another. If we can identify places in which ourhearts have become dull, places where our spiritual hearing wavers, or places we have closed our spiri-tual eyes, we take the first step toward a deeper relationship with God. The mere acknowledgmentthat our spirits need attention instantly brings us closer to God. In that moment when we ask how wecan be better formed in the image of Christ, Jesus says, “Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and yourears, for they hear.”

Lent gives us the opportunity for a temporary abandonment of our “ships” — habits and waysthat comfort us but which may also prevent our ability to live fully in God. For during Lent, more thanany other time, we become “practicing Christians,” people searching to improve our focus on God.

We may find that a season of setting something aside — a vessel of escape — helps us to attuneour hearts to the loving kindness of God. That practice may sharpen our spiritual senses of vision,hearing, and compassion. We may even find that we don’t want to return to the old country, that wehave no need of those ships we have temporarily relinquished.

When we honestly examine our lives and make adjustments in our ways of seeking and seeingGod, we may hear the voice of our Lord Jesus Christ. “Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and yourears, for they hear.”

And blessed are all human beings with the courage to relinquish the little ships that carry us awayfrom the deep territory of God.

The Rev. Carol Mead is the Episcopal chaplain of Mississippi State University Canterbury and onstaff at Resurrection/Starkville. Visit her website www.HolyOrdinary.com.

Becoming better formed in the image of Christ

Anne Wight Cazort Hardy, 93, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died November 1, 2012.Isaac Douglass Franklin, 88, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died November 15, 2012.Elizabeth Ann Thomas Mills, 76, communicant of St. James’, Greenville, died December 2, 2012.Suanna Smith, 75, communicant of St. Mark’s, Gulfport, died December 6, 2012. The Rev. Charles K. Horn, 85, beloved member of St. Peter’s-by-the-Lake, died December 17, 2012Richard Lamar George, 93, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died December 21, 2012.Elisabeth Sinclair, 86, communicant of All Saints’, Tupelo, died December 25, 2012.Samuel Harvey Kaye, 72, communicant of St. Paul’s, Columbus, died January 1, 2013.Melissa Markette Oakes, 56, communicant of All Saints’, Tupelo, died January 2, 2013.The Rev. Patrick Henry Sanders Jr., 91, retired priest - St. Paul’s, Meridian, died January 5, 2013.Michael “Mike” Anthony Camardelle, 49, communicant of St. James’, Jackson, died January 16,2013. William Ellison Bates, 73, communicant of St. Columb’s, Ridgeland, died January 17, 2013.Aulbie Demain “Dee” Huggins Jr., 82, communicant of St. Paul’s, Meridian, died January 17, 2013.Marilyn Grace Hardy, 82, communicant of Christl Church, Vicksburg, died January 23, 2013.Barbara Jean Taylor, 85, communicant of St. Paul’s, Corinth, died December 30, 2012Ruth Catherine Petty, 48, communicant of St. Paul’s, Corinth, died January. 7, 2013William Lindsay Ransom, 88, communicant of St. Paul’s, Corinth, died January. 30, 2013Ruby Lanita Carpenter, 85, a communicant of Calvary Church, Michigan City, died November 11,2012.

FAITHFUL DEPARTED

Gray further stated that “no priest, novestry, no congregation will be asked to do any-thing that violates their conscience.”

In order for a congregation to receive anexception to the ban on the blessing of same-gen-der couples, the vestry and clergy must petitionthe bishop and certify in that request four areasof process that were undertaken by the clergyand lay leadership. 1. Indicate the process of prayer and study thatwas undertaken;2. Describe how they see its use as beneficial tothe mission of the church in their community;3. Describe the process for preparing a couplefor this blessing and how the congregation wouldshow its support for the couple; and 4. Make a commitment to report back on theirexperience in time for input at GeneralConvention in 2015.

At the completion of the process a congrega-tion may do one of three things: 1) nothing, 2)differentiate themselves from the decision with astatement, or 3) petition the bishop to lift theban.

Gray said he has formed a small task forceto work with him on questions and issues thatmay arise during a congregation’s processing of apetition.

In acknowledgment of the seriousness of hisposition change (Gray voted against the trial useof the liturgy for the blessing of same gender

relationships at General Convention while allMississippi deputies voted for the authorization),Gray said “I am well aware of the extraordinarydiversity of emotion that this decision will evoke.This announcement will delight some of you. Forothers this will be experienced as horror andbetrayal. I recognize both realties. . . . For thosewho feel betrayed, I will accept your anger. Itrust that I have earned your respect over 13years and that we can find ways to talk and moveforward.

Gray also said that he chose to implementthis change in policy “so that deep emotions thatthis action evokes can be borne by the one whohas walked with you through so much over theselast 13 years-and not by someone who mustaddress it at the outset of his or her new ministrywith you,” Gray said, referring to his announcedretirement in 2015 and the calling of a bishopcoadjutor who will take his place.

Gray referred to St. Paul’s metaphor of see-ing through a glass darkly as we attempt to ascer-tain God’s truth. “Each of us has distorted per-ceptions of truth, and we need one another —our unique gifts, our unique perspectives — togive us a fuller, but always imperfect, vision ofGod’s truth and God’s purposes.

“We’ve still got work to do together. Andfor all that we’ve fought over and for all thatwe’ve disagreed about, I cannot imagine a peoplewith whom I would rather do God’s work.”

The Rev. Scott Lenoir is the editor of TheMississippi Episcopalian

Local optionContinued from page 1

The Mississippi Episcopalian 5February 2013

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As altar guild members we demonstrate ourlove and respect for our churches weekly. Join usin Meridian at the Church of the Mediator onSaturday, April 20 as we explore and share themany ways we give of our talents and time.

“ ‘Sew’ You Think Your Church Could UseNew Banners” is one of the workshop offeringswhich will explore making banners, hangings, etc.The workshop will be led by three Medioriteswho encourage all “seamstresses” to join them in sharing ideas and tips for contributing to the worshipexperience through the gift of sewing.

Another workshop, “You ‘Knead’ to Know”, will focus on the making of Eucharistic bread.Mediator parishioner, Robert Covington will share Mediator’s recipe and tips for preparing Eucharisticbread. He has found that the time he gives in preparing the bread to be a very spiritual, peaceful time.This workshop will offer a way for contributing to your church through the gift of baking.

Bruce Cohen, of Mississippi Metal Works, will present a workshop focusing on the care and repairof metals. He will have items/products needed for care of the metals used in Eucharist available forpurchase. Additionally, Mr. Cohen has said that if your parish has a piece in need of attention, he willbe glad to examine it and offer suggestions.

As time is limited and there are so many varied gifts we contribute to our churches, your parishaltar guild is encouraged to submit any hints or tips that your group has found to be helpful. Forexample, if you have found a way to get rid of that new indelible lipstick stain on purificators, let usknow. Or if you have tips that the flower guild would find useful send them along.

Perhaps your groups have suggestions about set ups for weddings, funerals, etc., (maybe a specialrecipe always used at a time of bereavement) please share with us.

So that the information can be compiled for distribution at the meeting, please send it to AnnMilsted by mail at 3826 King Road, Meridian, MS 39305, or by e-mail at eamlstd@yahoo.com.

A limited number of rooms have been blocked for the event at the Drury Inn and reservationsmust be made before March 17, 2013, to receive the special rate of $84.99 for a double. Reservationsmay be made at www.druryhotels.com group number 2170061, or by calling 1-800-325-0720, againrefer to group number 2170061.

The Church of the Mediator is located at 3825 35th Avenue, Meridian, MSFor more information, contact Ann Milsted at 601-479-7477 or eamlstd@yahoo.com

Ann Milsted is the communicant of Mediator/Meridian and a member of the diocesan altar guild.

Diocesan altar guild to hold annualmeeting in Meridian

By Bill Horne

Personally and corporately I have never been so warmly supported, attending and speak-ing to an Annual Council, as I was this last week in Jackson. Gray Center appears to be betterrecognized for its intrinsic value, its holy substance, than I have ever felt before. This delightsme and gives me great confidence that, though much can change, this, our great center fordiocesan spiritual development, will remain a constant and steady presence.

Many thanks to you all — those who applauded so loudly as I spoke of the good years wehave recently had, those who handed me so many generous checks in support of camp schol-arships and other development areas, those who brought me stories of your days at CampBratton-Green many years ago and, certainly, all who were so touched by the establishmentand naming of the new nurses’ cabin, “Ruthie’s Cabin,” in memory of the bishop’s late mother,Ruthie Gray, beloved by us all.

We are on a roll, no doubt, as things continue to improve and it will only be with yourcontinued and dedicated support that we reach the heights I know we can achieve. Togetherwe can secure the future of Gray Center and Camp Bratton-Green for our children and theirchildren’s children. Thank you for taking this ride with us and God bless you all.

Bill Horne and the staff of Gray Center

Just a few words about Council...

ANNUAL COUNCIL

6 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2013

Our vergers with Rev. Shannon Manning.

Scott Davis, St. Patrick's/Long Beach, was elected a trustee to the University of the South.

Danny Meadors (far right), chair of the lay ministry program in the diocese, presented seven peopleto the bishop to be licensed lay worship leaders on Friday night’s evening prayer at Annual Council.

The Rev. Luther Ott (Chapel of the Cross/Madison) and the Rev. Scott Lenoir (St. John’s/OceanSprings) were elected to a term of three years on the Disciplinary Board. Also elected, but not pic-tured, were Leigh Jensen Crawford (Resurrection/Starkville) and John Sneed (St. James’/Jackson).

Elected to the Executive Committee are (l. to r.): Dick Phillips (Grace/Canton), Judy Barnes (St. Alexis/Jackson) , the Rev. Gates Elliott (Chapel of theCross/Madison), and the Rev. Chris Robinson (Mediator-Redeemer/McComb).

CHRIST CHURCH OUTREACH

By Scott Bagley

2012 was a banner year for the Alliance for Health, a mission of Christ Church/Bay St. Louis. As a result of multiple fundraising activities, the Alliance for Health raised over $21,000, enabling theAlliance to provide support to over 120 patients in need in of medical prescription assistance inHancock County.

Fundraising activities included a Super Bowl tail gate party raffle, a spring fashion show, theannual Harvest Dinner and a craft booth at the Bay-Waveland Yacht Club annual crafts show. ChristChurch parishioners contributed their time, talent and other resources throughout the year to ensurethe success of the church’s primary outreach mission.

The Alliance for Health provides medical prescription assistance to qualifying patients inHancock County. Funding for this important program is provided through fundraising and voluntarydonations from individuals, churches, civic organizations and businesses. As an outreach program ofChrist Church, all donations made the Alliance for Health are tax deductible.

Christ Church/Bay St. Louis Alliancefor Health completes profitable year

By Kathryn Larsen

Christ Church/Bay St. Louis has long provided gifts for the children of inmates at the HancockCounty Jail at Christmas time. Memories of the outreach go back to the early 1980s, but no one reallyremembers when it began.

Parishioners chose achild or children, made thepurchase, wrapped and deliv-er the package(s) to the jail.In the past, gifts were drivenby Sheriff’s deputies over 70miles to the prisoners wherethey were housed in the yearsafter Hurricane Katrina.

With the new HancockCounty correctional facilitynow completed, we had anew experience with theChristmas outreach program.The Hancock County SafetyFacility houses felony prison-ers from Hancock County andsome state prisoners.

Hancock County alsohas a new sheriff and wardenat the jail. This year, WardenHubbard wanted gifts forchildren of all inmates who wanted to participate regardless of whether they were residents ofHancock County or not. A total of 34 inmates asked to join the Christmas program and gifts wereprovided for a total of 80 children. Another church responded to the warden’s request and served thefamilies of 12 more inmates.

For the first time, the warden invited a few members of Christ Church and the community toattend the delivery of gifts to the children. Much to our surprise, we were led into the indoor exerciseyard to see Santa and a Christmas tree.

The family and children of the male inmates were brought into the room first, followed by theinmates. They sat at individual family tables. Each family shared a joyful reunion with tears and hugsall around and Santa distributed the gifts. The visit lasted about 30 minutes.

The room was cleared of the male inmates and families and then the female inmates came in tomeet their families with the same joy and love as the other groups.

Visitors from the community were encouraged to interact with the inmates and when told whowe were and why we were there, well, to say we were embraced would be an understatement.Inmates blessed and thanked us. It was a very moving experience and somewhat sad too, as onefemale inmate’s young daughter did not even know her mother.

Because of this ministry not only were the parents able to “provide” a gift for their children, theywere able to have an extra family visit that ordinarily would not have occurred. We feel blessed to beable to provide this outreach to our community.

Prison ministry takes a personal turn in Hancock County

The Mississippi Episcopalian 7February 2013

The Constance and Her Companions Chapter of the Daughters of the King at Chapel of theCross/Madison held its annual January retreat at the Duncan Gray Conference Center. The retreatwas led by the Rev. Sylvia Czarnetzky, priest-in-charge of Calvary/Cleveland. The session was entitledReturn of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming. Pictured are those attending the retreat: (seatedl. to r.) Laney Crampton, Denise Upton, Melissa Cavett, and Cheryl Welch., (standing l to r) FrancesChristian, Ella Weston, Brooke Hardman, Lynne Stillions, Pattie Hill, Lisa Stutzman, AnneWhitehurst, Barbara McDonald, Sylvia Czarnetzky, retreat leader, and Maridine Wall, retreat coordi-nator.

“Throw me something, mister!” The parades were rolling all over the Coast during the annual MardiGras season which ends on Fat Tuesday, February 12. Pictured are members of St. John’s/OceanSprings where the parade passed by church property on Porter Avenue. The parish men’s groupSaints and Sinners sold burgers to hungry parade-goers.

The Rev. Patrick Skutch, Drew Skutch and Nannette Stroh were three of the many Christ Churchparishioners who made crafts sold to benefit the Alliance for Health.

Members of the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department helped volun-teers bring Christmas to prisoners at the jail and allowed prisoner’sfamilies and volunteers around the county to have a Christmas partywith the inmates.

8 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2013

RESOLUTIONS

Whereas, the host parishes this year consisted of both the smallest and the largest of churches in thisdiocese working together as hosts; and

Whereas, their excellent planning has led to a particularly well-functioning council which has includedexpedient and hospitable registration, delectable desserts, lively music, and even sunny and seasonableweather; and

Whereas, the red bags of courage they provided us were an outward and visible sign of the inward andspiritual grace that we are all bound together in the blood of Christ;

Resolved, that the 186th Council express our profound gratitude to All Saint’s, Jackson, Grace Church,Canton, St. Luke’s, Brandon, St. Mark’s, Raymond, and St. Andrew’s, Jackson; and

Resolved, that the darlings of Council express specific thanks to Co-Chairs Bill and Susan Hill and TheRev. Janet Ott and to all who assisted them, both lay and clergy.

A Resolution Concerning the Host Parishes of the 186th Council

Whereas, The Very Rev. Bo Roberts has served this diocese and the Parish of St. Mark’s for a long . . . long . . . long . . . long . . . time;and if calculations are correct, the sum of his service in Olive Branch and Gulfport are quite tremendous but not incalculable — 3years in the cool north and 44 years on the sunny Gulf Coast; and

Whereas, Bo is the only known priest to have withstood and rebuilt after two cataclysmic storms; and

Whereas, even as he approaches that magical, mandatory age of retirement, he maintains his uncannily youthful Olympic physique andhis ability to love without limit; and

Whereas, Bo may be missed to some degree at Annual Clergy Conference, the clergy will especially mourn the loss of Pam’s offering ofthe bounty from the Gulf — a delectable feast of shrimp and crab claws; and

Whereas, he has developed consummate skills in giving everyone advice and direction — requested or not — even extending it to ourbishop; and

Whereas, he has perfected handy man skills in electrical, plumbing, organ maintenance and basic janitorial duties, thus making it veryhard to find his successor; and

Whereas, even as he has served under five of the nine bishops of Mississippi, he has become affection-ately known in his own right as the Bishop of the Gulf Coast;

Resolved that we acknowledge that so many have benefited from Bo’s support and that his influencewill always be with us; and

Resolved that this entire 186th Council pay obeisance as we rise to our feet and bow to the RightReverend Very Reverend Bo Roberts.

A Resolution Concerning the Not So Imminent Departure of the Very Rev. James Beauregard Roberts

Whereas, the Rev. Pat Sanders departed this life on January 5, of this year; and

Whereas, he served this diocese as priest, mentor, teacher, musician, and friend for many years;and

Whereas, he taught and upheld the principles of stewardship of time, talent, and especially treas-ure, and he encouraged the discernment of one’s values through stewardship and the offering ofour gifts in a local parish; and

Whereas, he taught through his life and his long, happy marriage to Elaine the importance of liv-ing the gospel;

Resolved, that the 186th Council now offer a time of silence in grateful thanksgiving for the life,ministry, and witness of the Rev. Pat Sanders and express to his family our sympathy at hisdeath.

A Resolution in Memory of the Reverend Pat Sanders

The Very Rev. Bo Roberts takes a bow after council passes a resolutionin his honor.

A date to remember: Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian

February 2013 The Mississippi Episcopalian 9

By Janet C. Nail

“Now of my three score years and ten/Twenty will not come again.” (A.E. Housman)And I say to that, “Thank you, Lord!”Richard Rohr, O.F.M., says in FALLING UPWARD: A SPIRITUALITY FOR THE TWO HALVES OF

LIFE (Jossey-Bass, 2011), that the work of the two halves of our lives is significantly different, and if wedo not recognize and accept this, we face our later years spiritually impoverished.

The first half of life is a time to build an identity. This is the work of learning the boundaries ofour abilities, mastering a trade or profession, marrying, raising a family; we are essentially working ongetting along in the world. Rohr describes this as building a strong container. But what then?

Then we are to find the contents the container is meant to hold.Oh, only that?Yes, and the problem is, we discover the contents by failing, by falling until we understand the

real meaning of “up”; we get it right by doing it wrong!This, you understand, is totally countercultural. We are a first half society; we admire success,

security, even wealth. Failure is — well — failure, something to be avoided, something to be ashamedof. But Father Rohr maintains that it is only by failing that we grow. We learn to identify the “taskwithin the task” that is the real work we are doing.

Think of Jesus and his warning about old wineskins. We have invested so much energy in achiev-ing during the first half of life we tell ourselves that the old wineskins are good enough for the secondhalf work. But Jesus said that if we try that, both the wine and the wineskins may be lost. We musthave containers that stretch, that are strong. The old must die, must be replaced with a new containerthat is strong enough to last.

What if we choose to avoid the work of the second half, to be satisfied with the old wineskins?

Then we become those who never grow up, who only growold. (You have met them, those people who are afraid ofanything new, who live only to criticize and condemn; theseare not true Elders, who have struggled to a position of wis-dom!)

The work of the second half of life can be termed “thehero’s journey,” although it applies to women as well.(Literature has very few examples of the heroine’s journey.) Andremember, a journey begins by leaving home. The hero (orheroine) cannot grow by staying in one place; he/she must goforth, fall, be hurt, be stripped of illusions and power andweapons. Only then can he/she see that there is more to life,more to be learned (think of Jesus saying sorrowfully that a prophet is not without honor, save in hishome town).

Of course, learning to face the power of the second half of life involves facing the shadow (youknew we would encounter Jung sooner or later, didn’t you?). That pestiferous shadow, that part ofyourself that you deny, bury, evade, and try to wish away. Someone told me once that the person whoannoys me most is probably my shadow side (St. Paul, in case you are interested); Rohr says that if youreact to anything with anger or outrage out of proportion to the event, you are seeing your shadow. Atany rate, it is the part of you that you don’t like, but it is a part of you that you can’t deny. Learning toface and to accept your shadow is part of your falling upward.

If you have always expected that there is life beyond youth, that Browning might just be right insaying “The best is yet to be/The last of life for which the first is made,” this book is an exciting roadguide for the journey!

Falling Upward by Richard Rohr: A review

GOOD READING

By Cynthia Low

This Easter season St. Philip’s/ Jackson marks its fiftieth year as an organized congregation. As part of the year-longcelebration, the parish choir will present J. S. Bach’s Mass in B-Minor, considered by many to be the greatest single choralwork in existence. Since great and inspiring music was one aspect the founders wanted to support, David O’Steen, princi-pal parish musician, thought it would be appropriate to offer the mass as part of the celebration.

The parish choir started working on the piece during an August retreat at Gray Center in 2012. The Mass in B-Minorwas last performed in Jackson in 1985, the 300th anniversary of Bach’s birth. Performances were also held at Tougalooand Vicksburg by the Mississippi Camerata under the sponsorship of the Mississippi Academy of Ancient Music (MA’AM).

In 1977, the work had been given in Jackson by the St. Andrew’s Cathedral Chamber Society. Three members of St.Philip’s choir, Don Lacy, Jean Vaughn, and Max Garriott, took part in both of those performances. Max, for whom the workhas been the subject of lifelong study, has been assisting the choir during its rehearsals.

The Mass in B-Minor will be presented May 18, 3:00 p.m., and 19, 7:00 p.m., at St. Philip’s. The choir will be accom-panied by 22 members of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. There will be four guest soloists and a guest conductor.Tickets are $20.00 and go on sale in April. Seating is limited.

Cynthia Low is communicant of St. Philip’s/Jackson.

St. Philip’s prepares for 50th anniversaryMembers of the St. Philip’s choir rehearse Bach’s Mass in B-Minor

Jim Ca

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EVENTS

10 The Mississippi Episcopalian February 2013

February 15-17 Women’s Retreat: Discovering God in the Book of CreationLearn the art of lectio divina with nature, discovering God in creation as well as within one’s self. The Rev. Rwth Ashton, Trinity United Methodist, Lakeland, FL

March 8 A Day Apart: Day of Silence and PrayerTake a day apart from the demands of life to settle into a rhythm of silence and prayer at Gray Center.Co-sponsored with Journey Partners, a ministry of the Center for MinistryThe Rev. Diane Braman, LCSW

March 8-10 Men’s Cooking WeekendA veritable feast… Learn techniques at the grill and stove and countertop, and reflect on the meaning of food in faith and fellowship.Grae Dickson, Food and Beverage Director at Gray Center

April 19-21 A Contemplative Retreat: Teresa of Avila’s Interior CastleLearn more about Teresa’s work, and explore the interior castle of your own faith journey through conversation, reflection, centering prayer, and silence.Co-sponsored by Contemplative Outreach of JacksonSusan Komis, Contemplative Outreach faculty

May 3 A Day Apart: Day of Silence and PrayerCo-sponsored with Journey Partners, a ministry of the Center for MinistryThe Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, III

July 12 A Day Apart: Day of Silence and PrayerCo-sponsored with Journey Partners, a ministry of the Center for MinistryThe Rev. Jennifer Deaton, St. Andrew’s Cathedral

September 27 A Day Apart: Day of Silence and PrayerCo-sponsored with Journey Partners, a ministry of the Center for MinistryDiane Braman, LCSW

September 27-29 Silent RetreatSpend a weekend in silence, reflection, prayer and community.Co-sponsored with Journey Partners, a ministry of the Center for MinistryDiane Braman, LCSW

November 1 A Day Apart: Day of Silence and PrayerCo-sponsored with Journey Partners, a ministry of the Center for MinistryThe Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, III

December 6-8 Knitting and Needlework in Advent: Be Still and Know…Bring your needles and thread and take time to be still as we move through the busy season of Advent.Mrs. Susan Nix, St. Andrew’s CathedralThe Rev. Jennifer Deaton, St. Andrew’s Cathedral

For more information or to register for events, please go to http://cffm.dioms.org

…But be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you maydiscern what is the will of God – what is good and

acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

The Center for Formation and Mission2013 Offerings: Be Transformed

By Grae Dickson

Week after week in worship, we gather around a table to eat and drink our fill of God — thebread of life, and the cup of salvation. Every meal we share with others is in some sense sacred, an actof hospitality given and received. Scripture is filled with stories of Christ sitting at table with friendsand strangers alike, where food is consumed, stories are told, grace is present, and disciples areempowered to go out into the world to feed others.

At this cooking weekend of veritable feasts, Grae Dickson, Food and Beverage Director at GrayCenter, will be joined by the St. Andrew’s Cathedral “Holy Smokers” to teach techniques at the grill,stove and countertop, and to reflect on the meaning of food in faith and fellowship. Possible menuitems include Venison Diane, and a grits and grillades feast on Saturday evening. In addition to enjoy-ing hearth and table, spend time in the beautiful outdoors of Gray Center’s grounds.

Cost is $150.00; some scholarship assistance is available. For more information, or to register,please visit http://cffm.dioms.org

Grae Dickson is the food and beverage director at Gray Center.

By Kathy Willard

Responding to the thirst for a deeper spirituality and a desire to be transformed, the Center forFormation and Mission is partnering with an ecumenical group of contemplative Christians from acrossthe state to offer a unique retreat weekend focused on Saint Teresa of Avila’s Interior Castle. Thisretreat will include presentations, small group dialogue, reflections, optional worship in community,periods of centering prayer, and silence.

Saint Teresa of Avila was a mystic and a Carmelite nun in the 16th century whose rich writings onthe spiritual journey are classic texts in the same vein as St. John of the Cross. This retreat will focuson those writings; however, there is no required reading for the retreat. The retreat will also allowample quiet time to fish the well-stocked pond, explore the trails on the five hundred acres of the GrayCenter, walk the labyrinth, or just rest. While it is not a traditional silent retreat, there will be periodsof silence sprinkled throughout the weekend.

The presenter is Susan Komis, a nationally renowned speaker and retreat leader forContemplative Outreach. She has been connected with Father Thomas Keating and his organization ina variety of leadership roles since 1994. You can read more about Contemplative Outreach on theirwebsite, http://www.contemplativeoutreach.org

Sr. Therese Jacobs of St. Richard’s in Jackson is the chief organizer, along with the Center forFormation and Mission and the Center for Ministry at Millsaps, our Methodist counterpart. Baptist,Presbyterian, Quaker, and many other lay persons from the Gulf Coast to Tupelo have also contributedto this exceptional program. People of all faiths are welcome.

For more information or to register online (or print a paper registration form to mail), go tohttp://cffm.dioms.org. Cost for the retreat is $200 for double occupancy, $230 for single occupancy;some scholarship assistance is available.

Kathy Willard is on the planning committee for Contemplative Outreach.

The Interior Castle: a contemplative retreat

April 19-21st at Gray Center

Men’s cooking retreat at Gray CenterMarch 8-10

DIOCESAN CALENDAR

EVENTS

FEBRUARY• 10: Bishop Gray visits St. Stephen’s, Columbia - 5:00 p.m.• 13: Bishop Gray visits St. Andrew’s School (Lower), Jackson - 8:00 a.m.

Bishop Gray visits St. Matthew’s, Forest - 6:00 p.m.• 14: Convocational Deans Meeting — Allin House - 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.• 15 - 16: Gray Center Board Meeting — Gray Center• 17: Bishop Gray visits St. Peter’s by the Sea, Gulfport - 8 & 10:30 a.m.

Bishop Gray visits St. Pierre’s, Gautier - 6:00 p.m.• 18 - March 1: Holy Land Trip• 22 - 24: Sr. High DOY - Gray Center • 24: Bishop Gray visits Trinity, Yazoo City - 10:30 a.m.• 27: Bishop Gray visits All Saints, Grenada - 5:30 p.m.

MARCH• 1: Bishop Gray visits Trinity Episcopal School, Natchez - 7:30 a.m.• 3: Bishop Gray visits Christ Church, Bay St. Louis - 10:00 a.m.

Bishop Gray attends Wesley Service, St. Peter’s by-the-Sea, Gulfport - 6:00 p.m.• 5: Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian• 5: Deacons’ Council Meeting — Allin House - 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.• 8: A Day Apart — Gray Center - 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.• 8 - 9: Lay Leadership Training Institute — St. James’• 14: Executive Committee Meeting — St. Andrew’s - 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.• 15 - 16: Commission on Ministry — Gray Center• 15 - 16: Standing Committee Meeting — Gray Center• 17: Bishop Gray visits St. Patrick’s, Long Beach — 10:30 a.m.• 17 - 19: Presbyter POC — Gray Center• 22 - 23: Leadership Conference — Gray Center• 24: Bishop Gray visits Church of the Incarnation, West Point - 10:30 a.m.• 29: Allin House closed for Good Friday• 30: Bishop Gray visits St. Philip’s, Jackson - 6:00 p.m.

APRIL• 1: Allin House closed for Easter holiday• 2: Deadline for The Mississippi Episcopalian• 4 - 6: Deacons’ Retreat• 5: Bishop Gray visits St. Andrew’s Middle & Upper School - 8:45 & 11:00 a.m.• 5 - 7: Jr. High DOY — Gray Center• 10: Bishop Gray visits MSU Canterbury• 12 - 13: ECW Spring Conference — Gray Center• 12 - 14: Happening #77 — Gray Center• 14: Bishop Gray visits St. Mark’s, Gulfport - 9:30 a.m.

Bishop Gray visits St. Thomas’, Diamondhead - 4:00 p.m.• 18: Trustees Meeting - Allin House - 2:00 p.m.• 20: Diocesan Altar Guild Meeting - Meridian• 21: Bishop Gray visits Mediator, Meridian - 10:30 a.m.• 21 - 23: Presbyter POC — Gray Center• 25: Gray Center Executive Committee Conference Call - 5:00 p.m.• 26: Standing Committee Meeting• 27: Lay Worship Leaders Workshop — St. Timothy’s, Southaven

Standing Committee Retreat• 28: Bishop Gray visits Mediator/Redeemer, McComb - 10:30 a.m.

Bishop Gray visits Church of the Ascension, Brookhaven - 6:00 p.m.

The Mississippi Episcopalian 11February 2013

ELECTIONSTreasurer: Mr. Fred Page, All Saints’/TupeloTrustee of the Diocese: Mr. Holmes Adams, St. Andrew’s Cathedral/JacksonTrustee of the University of the South: Mr. Scott Davis, St. Patrick’s/Long BeachExecutive Committee: Ms. Judy Barnes, St. Alexis/Jackson, Mr. Dick Phillips, Grace/Canton,the Rev. Gates Elliott, Chapel of the Cross/Madison, the Rev. Chris Robinson, Mediator-Redeemer/McCombStanding Committee: Dr. Ed Sisson, St. Peter’s/Oxford, the Rev. Ann Fraiser/ St. Paul’sCorinthDisciplinary Board: Ms. Leigh Jensen Crawford, Resurrection/Starkville, Mr. John Sneed,St. James’/Jackson, the Rev. Luther Ott, Chapel of the Cross/Madison, the Rev. Scott Lenoir,St. John’s/Ocean Springs

Committee on CredentialsFinal Report

Date: 2/2/2013

Episcopal Church of the Mediator Bookstore

3825 35th Avenue • Meridian, MS 39305

www.mediatormeridian.dioms.org (click on Bookstore)email: www.mediatorbooks@comcast.net

Phone: 601-483-3959, ext. 25, manager’s cell: 601-527-6095Hours: Wed. 3:30-5:30 PM and Sun. 9:00 AM-10:15 & after 10:30 service

Prayerbooks, Anglican rosaries, Sara Rubin Pottery, crosses, jewelry, Episcopal items (T-shirts, sweatshirts, pins, hats, stickers, note cards) baby gifts, baptism & confirmation gifts,seasonal cards & gifts

Shipping available

EMPOWERING FOR MISSION

By Scott LenoirThe Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, Bishop of Honduras, was a guest at

the 186th Annual Council in Jackson Feb. 1st-3rd. Honduras is oneof the fastest growing dioceses in the Episcopal Church, and Allen isa member of the House of Bishops.

Allen is well-known to Mississippi as he continues a legacy ofinviting and supporting the Mississippi Honduras Medical Mission,now in its 31st year, to the village of San Joaquin in the SantaBarbara region.

Allen’s remarks to council focused on a new role that he envi-sions the church to play in the development of Honduras, using thesaying, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a manto fish and you feed him for a lifetime,” as a basis for his remarks.

The bishop’s desire is for ministry to develop within Hondurasthat teaches the people skills so that they may become self-suffi-cient. Allen presented Bishop Gray with a hand stitched piece-workthat parishioners in his diocese learned to create through a micro-financing program. The artistry is now being sold by those who cre-ate it, giving the people a new source of income.

Bishop Allen stated that whenhe was consecrated as the firstnative Honduran bishop in 2001,the support level of his diocese bythe larger church was at 98%. In2013, the support level has droppedto 48%.

“Walking this diocese awayfrom a legacy of dependency todepending on God with an interde-pendency on each other is our goal.We ask you a favor, teach us to fish.We need to learn to feed ourselves,”said Allen.

Allen’s goal is for the Dioceseof Honduras to become self-suffi-cient by the year 2019. Achievingthis aim is being facilitated by a newstaff member, the Very Rev. Lura M.Kaval, whom Allen has called as thediocese’s canon for development.

Bishop Allen also addressednews stories regarding violence inhis country. “I am here to assureyou that a level of violence is a reali-ty in Honduras, but Honduras is notthe only country where security isan issue. When you go to Mardi-Gras in New Orleans, you go to oneof the most violent cities in yournation.

“If you’re not involved withdrugs and gangs, you have nothingto worry about in Honduras,” said Allen.

The bishop also gave his thanks for the volunteers from Mississippi who have for 31 yearscome to his diocese to provide medical care for the people of the Santa Barbara region, whoselives have continued to improve physically through generations. Most recently, the installation of afiltered water well for the village and the building of clinics and schools have added to the qualityof life.

As for the bishop’s goals for ministry in his native land, Allen told those attending council tothink in terms of development. “Do not create dependence with a Santa Claus mission. Come tous with a willingness to change the paradigm.”

To learn more about ministry opportunities in Honduras, log on to the new websitewww.EpiscopalDioceseofHonduras.org.

12 The Mississippi Episcopalian

Diocese of Honduras seeks self-sufficiency in this decade

A Resolution Concerning the Right ReverendLloyd Allen Bishop of Honduras

Whereas, Bishop Lloyd Allen has offered hospitality to many mission groups over the years; andWhereas, he is “empowering us to mission” by inviting us to Honduras to teach the local peoplea variety of skills; and Whereas, he is leading his diocese to self-sufficiency in 2019;Resolved, that we give our friend a warm “Abrazo” and “Bienvenida”; and Resolved, that we express our appreciation to him, with a standing ovation, and say “MuchisimasGracias.”

The Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen

February 2013

Bishop Gray, III celebrates the council closing Eucharist with Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr.,Resident Bishop of the Mississippi Area, The United Methodist Church. Swanson preached a rousing sermon which received applause from all in attendance.

This is the handiwork of one of the micro-finance program mem-bers in Honduras designed to teach skills to produce income.

“Come to us with a willingness to change the paradigm.” — Bishop Lloyd E. Allen