Rector of All Saints' Episcopal Chuch, Philadelphia, PA 19114
Written for the
August, 2005 "Star"
The Rev. Jeffrey T. Liddy
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As you will have read elsewhere in this edition of The Star both new information and a reminder are included in the newsletter. The reminder is part of a new process for baptismal preparation after conversation and support from All Saints’ Vestry. The next Baptismal Orientation Dinner is scheduled for September 14, 2005 at 6:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall. A catered meal will be provided along with free childcare to the young parents. Personally, I am quite excited about this paradigm shift in drawing young parents into the All Saints’ faith community. All evidence about the “Generation X’ers,” and the “Millenniualists” affirms that these generations are “consumer oriented.” Translation: They shop for a church community just like they shop for the best pre-K program, or the best values at Wal-Mart. We need to be ready to greet them!
This naturally leads me to another exciting item found elsewhere in this month’s newsletter. The Vestry approved a space for a designated nursery! What is at present the Conference Room on the lower level of the “1912” addition will be transformed into a warm and welcoming, light and bright nursery. With a coat of paint over the paneling, some wonderful
“sweat equity” done by a group of marvelous people under the leadership this fall of our Church School Minister Becky McKernan, All Saints’ will have a space for the littlest of all the saints.
And yes, now a Ministry Faire at All Saints’ to take place over the weekend of September 17th and September 18th. All ministry groups should plan on being represented with appropriate tables and sign-up sheets to offer to the wider faith community the multiple opportunities for ministry in this parish. There are several “tried and true” ministries that have been in existence for years.
They will not be forgotten! Moreover, there are vast possibilities for Youth Ministry. Working with Canon Susannah Hunter, coordinator of diocesan youth ministry, there are several opportunities for the youth of All Saints’ to “plug into.”
In fact, it is my personal pledge for this next year to be directly involved with the youth of this parish hoping they will participate at the diocesan level. This ministry is designed precisely for parishes similar to All Saint’s who gather once a month—if not more—for fellowship and service ministry at the cathedral and elsewhere throughout the year. From a “Kick-Off” social in September, to an AIDS Walk Challenge in October, to the Bishop’s Ball in January, to an explosive and fast weekend in the “big Apple” to finally traveling to our sister diocese in Guatemala for ten days in July of 2006, is indicative of my commitment and the diocese’s commitment to YOUTH this fall and next year.
Lastly, you will have noted an insert in this newsletter. It is the work and result of the Vestry and you to share our dreams. All Saints’ Development, Strategy and Process for Goals and Mission, proclaims from the highest of “housetops” where we believe the risen Christ is calling us. But note, we need always to be prepared in being surprised by the Holy Spirit! As the tentative mission statement says on the front: In all things may we do them gallantly and with excellence in the name of the risen Christ. With these thoughts I leave you to your prayer and support.
