THE ANGELUS

THE ANGELUS

THE NEWSLETTER OF ST. LUKE'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, LEBANON, PA

Volume 8 No. 6

June 2018

Rector's Corner:

Dear Friends in Christ,

Even though Memorial Day weekend often feels like the official kickoff of summer, the summer solstice, which begins on June 21, is actually the official beginning of the season. For those who may not be familiar, the solstice is when the northern hemisphere enjoys the longest amount of sunlight of the year because of the sun's position relative to the Earth, shining directly above the Tropic of Cancer. Traditionally, the summer solstice and its invigorating effect on the planet has been considered a cause of celebration around the world. (After all, who wouldn't welcome a little extra sunshine with open arms?)

In Sweden, midsommar day festivities include outdoor dancing, flower-picking, and a feast of pickled herring, boiled potatoes, and plenty of schnapps. At night, tradition finds some Swedish girls laying down seven different types of flowers under their pillows, to supposedly ensure that their future husbands will appear in their dreams. In Iceland, where the sun sets after midnight during the solstice (!), people take advantage of the extended daylight by flocking to a four-day music festival in Reykjavik. In New York City, yogis head toward Times Square, where thousands practice their downward dogs at free yoga classes that take place all day long beneath the area's massive billboards. One of the biggest global solstice celebrations takes place at Stonehenge, where druids, mystics, and more than 20,000 other sun worshippers witness the golden sunrise of the solstice, which perfectly aligns in between the mysterious ruins of the ancient archaeological site.

But the summer solstice isn't just an excuse to party this particular date holds important historical significance. The ancient Greeks, for instance, marked the summer solstice on their calendars as the first official day of the year. The Mayans and the Aztecs in Latin America would honor it by building new structures using the sun's specific alignment and shadows produced on that date. And for centuries, the Chinese celebrated the solstice by paying tribute to the Earth, femininity, and the yin energy of their yin-yang philosophy.

Needless to say, Christians are no different. Did your elders ever forbid you to swim until after St. John the Baptist Day on June 24th? Somehow that was to keep you from drowning ? perhaps because the winter cold still resided in the water. But did you notice the date? Just six months and a day before Christmas. Like the birth of Christ, no one knows the date of John's birth. However, you may remember the Scripture when John says of Jesus, "I must decrease so that he may increase." (John 3:30) Thus the sun increases its stay in the sky until June 21 ? and then starts to decline. John "comes on the scene" with the story of his birth in June and then begins to decrease as the days progress, culminating finally with Jesus birth in the midst of winter ? just after the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice (December 21st). Even the cycles of the sun have been used to tell the stories of Jesus ? a fact not lost on people in the Middle Ages who saw everything in creation as a means to know God.

Solstices and equinoxes, the cycles of the greater light (the sun) and the lesser light (the moon), tides and seasons, light and dark ? natural images abound and remind us about the Creator and the Creation, about us and about how connected we are to the earth and to each other.

I pray that you may take every opportunity to enjoy this big beautiful world given into our care ? and that all of us would take seriously our responsibility for the stewardship of its treasures and resources. Enjoy all that God has given. Pick some flowers. Eat some herring. And then give thanks.

In the loving heart of Christ, I remain faithfully,

St. Luke's Episcopal Church z 22 South 6th Street z Lebanon, PA 17042-5338 z info@ z 717 272-8251

Page 2

Senior Warden Report

by Beth Yocum

Well, the May flowers arrived a little late and June might be the opening of spring that quickly turns into summer. As we approach our summer hours remember that summer hours take on a relaxed approach. During that relaxation it is time for us to approach a continued renewal of our commitment to Christ. Go out and enjoyed nature ... sit on the porch, garden, take a vacation.

But while this is going on remember to continue to support St. Luke's in your efforts. We do have meetings, noon meal, and other projects that need attention. Continue to come to church. It is hard while relaxing but this might be the time to have quiet moments of meditation. We have our last Evensong, our annual picnic (see article on p. 4), and other events going on.

So once again, in a quiet way renew that commitment that occurred during Easter. Take the time to enjoy your faith!

TEA PARTY

by Beth Yocum

The 5th Annual Tea Party was a huge success with over 60 people participating. We had seven hostesses arrange their table in special tea party ways. Sandwiches, desserts, and candies were had with a speaker, Jane Yocum, describing teas made from herbs. We collected over $400 dollars to be donated to the hospital for prescriptions for those in need. We still are collecting funds for that purpose.

Thank you to all who helped with the arrangements. Dolly Smith, Sandi Mesics, and Deb Harris helped prepare sandwiches and desserts for the evening. Sue Dreibelbis made flower arrangements and Kathy Thrapp made our herbal towels. Pam Weaner helped clean up with help from our student helpers. AND, of course, Lauralee Gebhard who continues to support me in making ALL the arrangements come true!

With all the feedback coming from the party I think we will have to have a 6th Annual Tea Party!

Lehman Fund Grants

High school students and others planning to go to college-- Lehman Fund grant and loan applications can be picked up in the Parish Office. Completed forms and financial information need to be returned to the Parish Office by Monday, June 11th.

Volunteer Opportunities

by Parish Office

The Parish is looking for volunteers to assist with important liturgical ministries: ushers for Sunday morning and Evensong, acolytes, lay readers and altar guild. Experience not required and training will be provided.

Contact the parish office (admin@stlukeslebanon,org (717) 272-8251) or Bryan Bowser (bryan.bowser@).

Page 3

Liturgy and Life: Connect!

We're on the move! As usually happens at St. Luke's in the summer, we will move our weekly celebrations of the Eucharist from the church to the auditorium so that we can take advantage of the air cooling that is available to us in that space. On the practical level, it helps some of our parishioners who find breathing difficult in the heat and humidity of our summer in the Lebanon Valley.

This year, however, we are going to take

advantage not only of the air cooling but also the

flexibility that this space affords us. For the

summer, we will assemble our liturgical

appointments to form a

"church in the round."

This is a rather radical

break from our usual

liturgical "posture"

and deserves a little

Ancient churches often had no arrangements for crowd seating. Here is the Abbey at Bath.

reflection.

If you would visit some European cathe-

drals, including many in England, you would dis-

cover that they do not contain pews. In fact, seat-

ing for a large crowd was unusual during most of

the medieval period when these churches were

built. Pews were gradually introduced as preaching

took an increasing share of Sunday worship ?

especially after the Reformation.

The arrangement of seating was influenced by

many factors

ranging from

convenience to an

understanding

that distance from

the altar signified

our "distance"

from God and introduced a measure of awe

New and newly renovated churches use many kinds of flexible seating arrangements. Here is an Episcopal church in

Rhode Island

to worship.

Liturgical renewal movements in the mid-twentieth century sought to recover many older practices of the Church even in church architecture and the placement of liturgical appointments for celebrations. As so often happens, "what's old is new again" and seen as an innovation rather than as a tradition.

Having the worshipping assembly gather around the altar as the holy table where the Paschal Meal is shared hearkens back to the earliest days of the Church. This configuration was thought to

represent how Christ rises up in the midst of the assembly in the "breaking of the bread." It assumes a certain intimacy among those participating as representative of the intimacy shared between Christ and the

Church. Some newer churches have incorporated

Our use of this arrangement in the Auditorium this summer will give us a different perspective on our celebrations, on the nature of the Eucharist, and the nature of our church community. It will also provide a means by which certain moments of teaching can occur within full view of the assembly.

On at least two Sundays, Mother Mary Kisner will teach us about the Eucharist using the techniques involved in Godly Play. This will give us a better idea of how this approach is used with our young people and will help us to experience our faith in a different way.

Of course, once we return to our church for regular worship in September, we will return to our more traditional modes of common prayer. Our prayer is that this experience will (as we pray in Eucharistic Prayer C) "help us to open our eyes to see your hand at work in the world about us."

Vigil Eucharist Saturdays 5 PM

Chapel of St. Mary

(The Mary Altar)

The 5 PM Eucharist celebrated each Saturday anticipates the liturgy of the Sunday that follows. This intimate celebration seeks to explore other permitted forms of liturgy that differ from our usual, more formal celebrations on Sunday mornings.

On the first Saturday of the month, the liturgy employs music and prayer forms from the monastery at Taize (France), while the third Saturday focuses on Celtic spirituality (see the article on p.5). All celebrations feature a "reflection" on the lessons rather than a formal homily and participants gather at the altar for holy communion. During July and August, the Vigil Eucharist will be celebrated in Trinity Chapel (Parish Hall). The celebration is a good way to introduce people generally unfamiliar with our formal styles of worship to the nature of the liturgy as a true expression of our community in Christ.

Page 4

Stewardship: An Update

by Rich Thrapp and Father Zwifka

At the end of June, we will complete the first half of our fiscal year. Perhaps that would be the time for an update about the progress of our financial stewardship efforts. However, once June is over and we all head to the beach or the mountains or even just our backyard, we usually push serious concerns to the side as much as we can. With that in mind, it might be best to take a look at a financial snapshot before we enter the "hazy, lazy, crazy days of summer."

So far in 2018, our actual pledge payments are running slightly behind what we had budgeted by $2,688 (or 1.2%). However, this does not reflect an advance payment against the pledge budget that was made before the end of last fiscal year (2017). Having received $7,125 in 2017 means that we are actually

$4,437 (or 2.1%) ahead of this year's budget at the end of April. Of course, that positive margin will decrease as time goes on. However, the fact remains that we are very slightly short of our goal for the end of April, 2018.

On the upside, Special Donations received for the general use of the parish are $655 over budget (or 27.5%). This resulted from an unusually large special collection at Easter. Most other revenue streams are running at budgeted levels. This indicates great work on the part of our Finance Committee in the accuracy of their budgeting process!

Overall, our expenses are running at or below budget in almost all categories. This shows that the parish continues to exercise fiscal responsibility and restraint in all areas of spending. This is especially good news in light of the harsh winter weather we experienced earlier this year. For example, our gas bill was 4% over budget while our electric bill was 17% under budget. This produced a net 1.5% surplus in our utilities allotment.

There are a number of expenses related to capital repairs and upgrades, which are not included in the operating budget, however. For example, we spent $10,650 for masonry work, some of which was necessary but unplanned. We also reconfigured and upgraded the offices used by the parish priests to the tune of $16,388. The latter was largely underwritten by the Vision 20/20 fund and the former by using some of our unrestricted reserve funds, which were gathered from various bequests and memorials over the last several years. Consequently, there was not a

substantial impact on our operating budget. However, these funds are not self-perpetuating and will not always be available for this kind of work in the future.

As more projects related to the upkeep and preservation of our historic buildings and as maintenance needs increase with the increased use of our facilities, it is becoming more clear that we will need to consider a special capital campaign in the foreseeable future. Aside from special projects that need funding (e.g., improved lighting in the church), we hope to create a special investment fund from the proceeds of the campaign that will generate a continuing revenue stream for regular, ongoing maintenance. This will help us avoid the negative outcomes of what is euphemistically called "deferred maintenance."

In summary, revenue is coming in as expected and we continue to keep operating expenses under control. This results from the continuing generosity of our parishioners as they faithfully fulfill their promises in support of the parish. Similarly, Vestry and staff alike are to be commended for their attention to the needs of the parish to keep a tight reign on expenses. As always, parish leadership is thankful to God for providing all that is necessary for the tasks that God sets before us.

PARISH PICNIC Note Location Change!!

SUNDAY, JUNE 10 AT 10:00 AM

This year the Parish Picnic will be held at Lions Lake Park, located at the intersection of Route 72 and Jay Street. (across the street from Living Water's Chapel) The full-service pavilion was recently remodeled and is equipped with two stoves, two refrigerators, a microwave and a deep double sink. The pavilion has 15 picnic tables able to accommodate up to 120 people comfortably. It is adjacent to the restrooms, as well as a small playground. There are horseshoe pits and a grilling area. There is also a volleyball court at this park and a larger playground. This pavilion is accessible off Jay Street.

Hot dogs, sauerkraut, bar-b-que, buns, chips, pretzels, drinks, and condiments, as well as paper plates, napkins, cups, and utensils will be provided.

Bring your own lawn chair and favorite covered dish.

Cakes are needed for the cakewalk and auction. In case of rain, the picnic will be at the Church.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND!

Contact Brian or Sharon at 273-3224 or e-mail bsw53@ with any questions.

Page 5

Celtic Spirituality: Just what is it?

by Father David Zwifka

You may have noticed announcements about some Saturday Vigil Eucharist celebrations taking on a Celtic "orientation." Many people immediately identify the term "Celtic" with Irish culture. It is true that Irish culture was and continues to be highly influenced by Celtic ideas and ways of doing things. However, the term "Celtic" applies to a great deal more than simply a form of music or a lilting way of speaking.

The name `Celtic' refers to an ancient people who settled in Europe in the area between what is now known as Turkey and the Atlantic Ocean. The Celts were a warlike people with their own rich mythology. With the rise of the Germanic tribes in northern Europe and the Romans in the Mediterranean world, the Celts were pushed further and further North. These people shared a family of languages some of which have survived to this very day.

One of the principal aspects of Celtic spirituality is its reliance on storytelling. Storytellers related the adventures and travels of early saints like Columba and Brigid who became the founding heroes of the growing Church community. Many of these stories described confrontations with wondrous and frightening beasts. You may remember the legend of Patrick ridding Ireland of snakes! More importantly, storytelling was

a perfect way to expose illiterate people to the many stories of the Bible.

Another aspect of Celtic Christianity is its emphasis on sin and penance. Contrary to

what you may think at first, they saw sin not so much as an infraction or a crime but

rather as something that gets in the way of developing a full Christian life. As a means

of getting beyond these obstacles, individuals were encouraged to develop "soul

friends" a kind of mentor or spiritual companion. Soul friends helped one another root

out spiritual imperfections by seeking to replace vices with virtues. The goal of the

Christian life, then, is seen primarily as the work of conversion to Christ ? and then

the task of deepening one's conversion ? by helping the Christian to remove what

-The Celtic CrossOften seen as the primary symbol of Celtic Christian

spirituality

may be a roadblock on their journey in faith.

One of the most striking things about this approach to the spiritual life is an attachment to one's home place, be it their locality or more broadly one's cultural

heritage. For the early Celts, to leave this special place is to endure a kind of martyr-

dom, what in some texts is called a "white" martyrdom. Cultural context, or place,

shapes one's personal identity. Consequently, the environment influences who people become and how they

live out their relationships to God, others, self, and the world. Place influences the things needed to be attended

to in life for survival, work, or recreation. But beyond these practical concerns, a sense of place engages their

imaginations in how they identify themselves and others.

There is much that we can learn from the prayers, writings, hymns and the stories of ancient Celtic Christians. In summary, Christian Celtic spirituality teaches us that God, or perhaps, more accurately, the Divine presence, can be recognized intensely in the workings of nature and especially in the landscapes of our daily lives. For those who follow a Celtic spiritual path, there is a sacredness to everyday realities: God can be found even in the simplest activities. These are just a few elements of a very deep tradition. If there is enough interest, St. Luke's is considering deep dive into this rich tradition by participating in a special course offered through the Stevenson School for Ministry. In this course, participants will undertake a pilgrimage into traditional and contemporary Celtic Spirituality and examine the rich and deep traditions of the Celtic Christian movement. The course, guided by The Rev'd Canon Dr. Mark Scheneman pays particular attention to the dynamics and rhythms of connectedness, presence, and engagement in a spirituality we can claim as our own in this 21st century. Watch for more information!

The Angelus, St. Luke's Episcopal Church 22 S. 6th St., Lebanon, PA 17042-5338

June 2018, Published 11 Times a Year, Volume 8, No. 6

Page 6

Pastoral Care: Handicapped Access Report

by Soon Slayman

Because I have such a personal commitment to handicapped accessibility, I have kept this project with me in Pastoral Care. The reason for this is that on Christmas Eve of 2014, like a bolt of lightning, I believe I was visited by the Holy Spirit, giving to me the task of making our church more accessible for those with physical handicaps. It was like an experience you may have had on the morning of 9/11 or some other historic event in which for the rest of your life you will know exactly where you were and how you felt.

To this end, Fr. David created an outline on how to move handicapped accessible projects forward, the concept of this has been approved by the Vestry. Here are some of the accomplishments and plans to date:

? Bernie Yohn and Denny Heck, through the Property Committee, remodeled the bathroom adjacent to the Choir Room, making it virtually ADA compliant and accessible to most wheelchair occupants. What they did is a huge step forward!

? More "handicapped" parking spaces are now available in the church parking lot during Sunday services and the Wednesday healing service.

? This summer, there is a plan to have a push button operated automatic door operator installed at the entrance to the Elevator Lobby from the parking lot . This will finally allow a person using a walker or a wheelchair to independently enter or exit the church.

? This summer, there is a plan for two spaces to be created within the pew areas of the nave to allow a wheelchair bound person to sit with their family. These designs were arrived at by a task force including parishioners with wheelchair bound familiy members. One space is off of the center aisle about half way back and the other off the left side aisle about half way back.

? Plans are being studied to make the "red doors" open more easily.

We need to know your ideas, suggestions and frustrations. Some of our ideas include valet parking

Lebanon County Christian Ministries Donations

The item from the LCCM wish list for June is Creamy Peanut Butter & Laundry Detergent

as well as a dream of having a van which could pick up parishioners for Sunday services. Anything is worth considering! IMPORTANT INFORMATION: There have been designated donations made for handicapped accessibility which will currently cover the cost of several projects. Hopefully additional gifts will made so that as this fund grows, we will be able to consider more improvements.

WANTED

Someone with knowledge about selling on eBay. We have two collectible dolls which were donated to the Bazaar and we need help to find the best market in which to sell them. Contact: Soon Slayman, Beth Yocum or the Parish Office.

Please pray for our Homebound:

Barbara Bross, Joe Dowhower, Betty Gates, John "Pete" Gates, Doris Kern, Grace Reich, and Charles Wood.

Power Packs Update

by Katherine Hoopes

Our POWER PACK volunteers have worked diligently since the Program began in early October, 2017. With the exception of two school holidays the bags have been prepared and distributed every Thursday afternoon. We have averaged 45 to 50 bags per day. The final distribution willl be on May 24 and, after that date, we will have more specific information about the number of children and adults we have served. Many friends have been made through-out the year and it is always a pleasure to greet them and hear their expressions of gratitude.

ECW

by Eileen Sidelnick

Page 7

ECW Ladies Night Out at the Timbers

All women of the church and guests are invited to join ECW for a Dinner Buffet and Musical

Revue ?"Music in Time!" at

the Timbers in Mt. Gretna on Tuesday, July 17 at 6:00 PM. The cost is $25.00 per person. If you need a ride and would like to carpool, we will meet at the church at 5:30 PM. Please send the information form and a check (payable to St. Luke's

ECW) to Eileen Sidelnick, 1021 Percy Lane, Lebanon, PA 17042. Contact Eileen (926-

4238) with any questions.

Ladies Night Out at the Timbers Name & Phone Number: ____________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Number Attending: ___________________________ Check Amount: ______________________________ _______ I need a ride. _______ I am willing to carpool.

*Reservations and checks are due by Sunday, July 15

God, Father to All

"Thank you for molding me to be the person that I am today my morals, character & anything decent

about me, I owe it all to you."

Author Unknown

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