Greetings all and "welcome back" to St. Andrew's NEWSLINE.  Blessings to Kathy Johnson for her persistence in getting this published.

Here is a (probably incomplete) overview of the worship, caring for each other, participation and action that has and is occurring.

Caring for our members

Members of St. Martha's Guild, Daughters of the King and our Eucharistic visitors continue to call, visit and pray for members as requested. Watch for notices regarding where you can participate.  Church family care these summer months have included a birthday party for Bill Harrington and good byes to Ellen Pugh and Mike Moore, both now living near family. Gary McDermott and Margie Braden have both left current addresses you can find in the directory. Margie wants us to know she thinks of us and has decided to transfer her membership to St. Andrew's in Emporia, KS - and their Rector's last name is "McDonald."! Eucharistic visitors offer communion in home settings to 6 - 8 members throughout the weeks of a month.  Attendance is strong - no slump as yet...and outreach events on behalf of others in the community continue.

 

Inquire and Renew

Thank you!  Leaders, Kathy McClellan, April Baily, Nell Engeler and Deanna Van Eps who facilitated the Inquire and Renew class for five (5) Sundays ...and Welcome! New confirmands, Richard Hester and Janet Mayo. Nancy Hester, Jane Darr and Chuck Orvis renewed their baptismal vows during the Bishop's visit on July 9. That Sunday Bishop Benfield expressed his appreciation to us all for the warm "open door" welcome and commented on St. Andrew's members' care for the church and each other.  During Forum using the "Word Clouds," he described the transition process, the search, and answered many questions.

 

The Search for a New Rector

July 1 - Supper and Stories with Canon Jason Alexander took place with over 45 folks attending.  Using a tool called, "Appreciative Inquiry", folks used sticky notes to answer questions, share with each other at table and then with the entire group.  By July 9, graphics called "Word Clouds" created from our own words were provided and sent by Canon Alexander and posted outside Keller Hall.  Next step, the  Vestry is to complete "12 questions" by August 30.  Building the job description, base salary and marketing St. Andrew's, life in the Twin Lakes and more will be launched on a revamped website, simultaneously listing the position. The reality is that we may be enjoying the personalities of several wonderful supply priests for some time.

 

Memorials, Remembering and Maintaining

Most of you know that the stained glass window was at risk.  On July 10 ,  it was removed for repair under the supervision of specialist David Soos from Little Rock.  Building and Grounds chair and Vestry member, Art Williams, involved the experience and expertise of members, not the least of which is Treasurer John Van Eps in orchestrating this repair. While a necessity, the cost of this was an unplanned for expense. A "Window of Opportunity" has been announced inviting folks who want to contribute to the expense to do so by sending a gift marked for this repair.