VOLUME 1, ISSUE 38 OCTOBER 10, 2019

18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23) SCRIPTURE READINGS 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c Psalm 111 2 Timothy 2:8-15 Luke 17:11-19 8:00AM SERVICE Preacher: Dean Ryan Celebrant: Dean Ryan 10:00AM SERVICE Usher: William Patterson Lector: Pam Johnston Preacher: Dean Ryan Celebrant: Dean Ryan

FOOD BANK 2nd-4th Wednesdays @ 2:30PM THE COTTAGE SHOP Wednesdays 12:30PM - 4:30PM 1st-3rd Sat. @ 9:00AM-1:00PM CHOIR REHEARSAL Thursdays @ 6:30PM FOOD BANK: TJ FOOD DISTRIBUTION Sundays after 10AM Service (White Room) CENTRAL DEANERY MEETING SAT. OCT. 12 @ 10:00AM-12:00PM Fireside Room THE BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS SUN. OCT. 13 @ 10:00AM Cathedral Lawn EUCHARISTIC MINISTER TRAINING WED. OCT. 16 @ 6:00PM-8:00PM Fireside Room CHAPTER MEETING SUN. OCT. 20 @ 12:00PM-2:30PM Conference Room FRESNO/CLOVIS CROP HUNGER WALK SUN. OCT. 20 @ 1:30PM-3:30PM First Congregational Church of Fresno

On October 6th, 2019 St. James Cathedral celebrated its 140th year of ministry and faith in Fresno during a luncheon hosted by the Preservation Committee. The luncheon included a collection of table-top historical exhibits documenting the history of St. James. The gathered was kicked-off by Dean Ryan Newman and also included prayer by Bishop David Rice. Attendees enjoyed a delicious catered meal and were invited to browse the extraordinary historical exhibits prepared by Preservation Committee volunteers. “It was an exceptional celebration of St. James’ history,” said Dean Ryan. “The Preservation Committee brought to life the story of St. James.” The Preservation Committee worked diligently to curate, preserve, and display the important artifacts and elements of our collective history. Marshall Johnston, a member of the St. James community and a Professor of History at Fresno Pacific University, reminds us, “The Anglican way, the three-legged stool, is scripture, tradition, and reason, and two of those demand that we try to engage and understand the past. It's hard to know where we're going if we don't know where we've been. And the past doesn't repeat itself, but the future sure resembles it.”

For a year, members of the Preservation Committee have worked diligently to bring the Cathedral’s history to life. Over the months the committee met regularly to lay down the groundwork for a celebration of St. James’ past and hopes for the future. For months they poured over documents, emptied cabinets and boxes to uncover pictures, journals, and floorplans to display. As they worked, they learned more and more about who we were, where we’ve come from, and where we’re going. Seeing where we began as a congregation has painted a vivid picture of the path we’ve been on and hints at where we’re heading in the future.  To mark the occasion, during both the 8:00AM and 10:00AM services the clergy offered a special prayer celebrating the past, present, and future of St. James. The text of the 140th Anniversary Prayer is in italics and throughout this article.  “ O God, the source of all beginnings: we thank you for bringing us to this new day. On this occasion we mark the 140th anniversary of St. James Episcopal Church, we give thanks and pray for those in the past, present, and future who have called and will call St. James their spiritual home.

As the Cathedral, St. James is in the unique position of having to live out an example of stewardship, commitment to Christ, and social justice for not only the greater Fresno community but also for the entire Diocese of San Joaquin. The Cathedral has existed in some capacity since California became a state in 1850.  The earliest Episcopalians to call California’s Central Valley home congregated at Fort Miller, welcoming the Bishop of the Diocese of California (which covered the entire state at the time), Bishop Kip, in 1855. When towns and cities began cropping up along the train line that bisected the state people moved to Fresno and began meeting in tents and home churches.

We remember especially the brave women and men who courageously laid the first cornerstone of St. James and brought to the people in this Valley a community dedicated to proclaiming the Good News of your Kingdom. We are grateful for those who labored to sow the first seeds of your Church and for those who you called together to be the Body of Christ. For those who gave so generously of their time, talents, and resources so that future generations of the faithful could worship and witness your love in your Holy Temple.”

Just thirty years after California was granted statehood the St. James Mission Church was organized in Fresno. By 1881 bricks were being laid on Fresno Street giving the St. James church a building to call home. For the next twenty years the St. James parish church grows and becomes a formal part of the new Diocese of San Joaquin. In 1910 the Missionary District of San Joaquin is established, and Fresno is named the See City. During the luncheon, photos of our first Bishop and Dean were on display along with a panoramic of Downtown Fresno at the time of early development. The Seal of the Bishop stood in front of a picture of the St. James Choir on Easter 1897. If one were to look through the photo album at the center of the table they would see photos of Zoe Eden, who later donated money for the hall named in her honor, driving her friends White Steamer Automobile. A story of Bishop Kip’s visit to the Valley and the beginnings of ministry in the Valley sat prominently in the very front drawing the eye.  In times of joy and in times of great disruption, your love was never-ending O Lord. We give thanks and pray for those in this present generation who continue to labor in the fields of your Kingdom. Sending each of us out as sowers of your good news, workers of healing, and caretakers of new life. Equip us for service, enliven us with your joy, and help us remember and trust that it is you who will bring in the harvest.

In 1911, just thirty years after its organization St. James was named a pro-Cathedral and consecrated on October 27. On the second table titled “Named Pro-Cathedral” the document bearing the Seal of the Bishop which appointed St. James the Cathedral sat center stage. Around this framed document were photos of the early church, the people who participated and led the services, as well as a map of the San Joaquin Valley.  The beautiful church, built in 1881 had been replaced by an equally beautiful church on the same spot, Fresno and N Streets, at the turn of the century. If one were to look closely, they would see the article relating the story of the high altar and its dedication to Bishop Kearney in 1938. That same altar still resides in St. James Parish Hall and is used during Eucharist every Sunday.

Lord of all, we offer our unending praise for the goodness and faithfulness of your reconciling love and hope that you have made known to us in the broken bread and in the wine. We humbly ask that you continue to feed us from this table so that we may be empowered by the Spirit to proclaim in word and example your Good News as we seek and serve all persons, loving our neighbor as ourselves, and as we strive for justice and peace, and respect the dignity of every human being.

The Forum of Better Understanding, a ministry of Dean Malloch, received a table all its own. The Dean smiles out at the viewer from a framed photo towards the top of the table, the picture above it showing the forum at work. Dean Malloch met with Rabbi David Greenberg and Monsignor James Dowling to foster ecumenical understanding and relationships from 1937-1954.  The City of Fresno recognized the importance of their shared ministry and erected a statue commemorating the men and their contributions to the Fresno community. Photos of that state, and its plaque, featured prominently on the table. Mr. Patrick Fennacy dedicated an authentic microphone used by the forum to the event as well as the photographs of the statue and plaque.

In this time and place, O God, bless us with the audacity to not only survive but thrive as a community of faith, especially beyond these walls. God of all strength and wisdom you go before and behind us, you are our light and our shield; guide our path, be our clear sight, lift us up in your Gospel joy, and bless the work we do in your name and honor as we are called to build up your Kingdom for future generations.

The next one hundred years of growth, building (literal construction projects), and change have led the current St. James, who call Cedar and Dakota home, to where they are now.  Plans for expansion were in the works in the 1940’s and in 1951 Sanford Hall was built. To commemorate this occasion St. James purchased new china and cutlery. If one were to pick up the spoon on display with the table setting, they would see St. James engraved on the handle. After the Great Central Valley Earthquake Sanford Hall was used to hold services because the main church was badly damaged and condemned by the City. This led to the purchase of property at Cedar and Dakota. Thus, a natural tragedy ushered in another era of growth, expansion, and renewed faith for St. James. On the board standing to the back of the table one can see the drawings and floor plans for both Sanford Hall and the new Cathedral building.

Lead us and guide us O Lord to bring your vision, your hope, and your love to future generation who will call this Valley and this Cathedral their home. Enable our children and our children’s children to hear and to speak new words of hope and praise. May your light fill this sanctuary and your radiance shine into the community. In the minutes, days, and years to come, draw all to the brightness of your love and mercy.

At St. James we know children are our future. At the 140th Celebration the youngest members of our church were invited to celebrate the birthday of St. James, wear party hats, and claim a goody bag to mark the occasion.  A giant birthday card, artfully decorated with stickers, crayon artwork, and colorful doodles now sits in the Cathedral Narthex.  Glory to God, whose power working in us can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen.”

On the final table one could find pictures of our recent clergy, beautiful pictures of the Cathedral, and photos of our ministries. Celebrating the current, living history of the Cathedral is an important part of preservation. Every person who calls St. James their spiritual home is part of making history. In 140 years, people will look back to us and see what struggles we’ve overcome, what dreams we had, and what we were able to achieve.  St. James is proud to be part of the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, the Episcopal Church, and the Anglican Communion. The Cathedral is committed to a vision that honors and loves all, welcomes all, and shares the love and Good News of Christ. Part of that call is supporting social justice in our community. The Food Pantry of St. James, Reel Pride Fresno, Faith in the Valley, and many more ministries work to show forth love, radical welcome, and the true meaning of being a Gospel-centered faith community in Fresno.  The displays from the 140th are currently on display in the 10th street building which sits to the west of Zoe Eden Hall and will be available for viewing on Sundays and at special times.

Click here to view more photos from the 140th Celebration

CHAPTER NOMINATIONS Fourth Nominee Announced: Denice Leslie

We are pleased to announce that four members of our Cathedral Congregations have been nominated to serve three-year terms on Chapter; Stan Boone, Katharine Nelson, Denice Leslie, and Aaron Schuelke. On Sunday, October 20th, the Cathedral Congregation will vote to name four people to Chapter. Those four names will be forwarded for affirmation to this year's Diocese Convention on October 25th and 26th. Upon affirmation by Convention, the new members of Chapter will be installed at January's Annual Meeting.

YOUR FOURTH CHAPTER NOMINEE

Each nominee was asked to respond to the following question:  Please write a statement discussing your vision for St. James Cathedral in the next three years. Also, please briefly share your qualifications and leadership experience.

DENICE LESLIE  St. James is such a warm, welcoming and progressive community with great clergy, beautiful liturgy, growing music ministry and outreach missions via the food distribution ministry and the Cottage Thrift Shop-I envision us continuing to implement our plans for Christian Education with children and their families, expanding the use of our terrific facilities for our expanding ministry. I hope we can work on marketing- getting the word out about one of the best kept secrets in Fresno and Clovis: St. James!!   Along the way I would love to see us engage in implementing a system for connecting new arrivals into the life and ministry of the church that meets their needs and grows their faith and helps them discover an area of ministry that makes their heart sing or cry out for justice; and find new life long friends in this community. I hope we can offer spiritual nurture to support us all in our journey by expanding our spiritual life opportunities too. This is a lot! If we can work together on coming to a common understanding of our core values and vision and out of that identify in a few words what our mission is we can align our ministries with God's good purpose in Christ Jesus.   As for leadership, I am a retired United Methodist pastor and spent most of my active vocation focused on revitalizing churches in steep decline. Along the way I came to love those who I had the privilege to sojourn with; was always humbled by their spiritual gifts, and realized that the journey is our home (as the song says!). My guiding scripture from is from the Letter of the Apostle James who exhorts us to " Count it all joy!":  the ups , the downs, the work and the play. I have found a spiritual home here at St. James that makes my heart sing and believe that good leadership is lay based and operated ministry in which the whole body of Christ exercises its spiritual muscle for the transformation of the world through God's Shalom.

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL NOMINEE STATEMENTS

BLESSINGS OF THE ANIMALS This Sunday: October 13th @ 10:00AM

Join us for a special service this Sunday, the Blessing of the Animals. The service commemorates St. Francis of Assisi—a well-known steward of creation care and devote caregiver to all of God’s creatures. The service will be more informal and has been amended to accommodate our special friends who are coming to be blessed. The service will be shorter (will run about 40 minutes pending on the number of animals being blessed). Participants are encouraged to invite neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family. This is a wonderful opportunity and perfect service to invite guests to experience the St. James Family. Animals of all kinds are welcome. At the time of blessings, you will be invited bring your pet(s) or picture of your pet(s) forward to receive a blessing. For those animals who might be shy, you will be visited at your seat for a blessing. Little ones are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed-animal for a special prayer. The event will be hosted on the lawn (east of the Cathedral). Chairs will be available, but you are welcome to bring a blanket or lawn chair if they works better for you and your animal(s). If the pet blessing is not your thing, we invite you to attend the 8:00AM service on Saturday, October 13th in the Chapel of the Holy Innocents.

MEMBER PROFILE PROJECT UPDATE

Three weeks ago, St. James launched a bold and vital initiative,  The Member Profile Project.  Since the launch last week, 51 profiles have been completed. However, we need 100% participation from the members of the Cathedral Congregation.  When you fill out a Member Profile, you are not just sharing information, you are building up the Cathedral of St. James and strengthening that sacred bond that draws us together as a community of faith. This is one of the most important endeavors of our Cathedral’s resurrection! Our community, our Cathedral family, is the most important asset of St. James. The Cathedral’s membership database is an extension of our Cathedral family—it is a vital resource tool that establishes, maintains, and deepens our sacred connections with one another.  If you do not have access to an internet enabled device or you would like assistance, each Sunday, 8:45AM – 9:45AM until the end of October, a member of the St. James team will make themselves available in the Fireside Room. They will assist you with filling out the form. The process should only take about five minutes.  Please take five minutes and fill out your profile!

FILL OUT YOUR MEMBER PROFILE TODAY!

Within the Episcopal Church, laity assist the clergy during the celebration of Holy Eucharist, administering the elements (the wine or the bread). Eucharistic Ministers are vital members of the St. James worship team. Have you ever thought about serving as a Eucharistic Minister? We are seeking to grow this ministry at St. James. No previous experience is required. We are hoping to grow the group to about 6-8 Eucharistic Ministers who would serve on a rotating basis during Sundays. Eucharistic Minister are needed for both the 8:00AM and 10:00AM services! On Wednesday, October 16th, the Dean and the Deacons will host an introductory training workshop for new and continuing Eucharistic Ministers. The evening will begin at 6:00PM with dinner (provided by St. James). The training workshop will begin at 6:30PM and conclude 8:30PM.  Those interested in attending the Eucharistic Minister Training Workshop, please register below. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak to your Cathedral Clergy.

REGISTER FOR EM WORKSHOP

OCTOBER 20, 2019 QUARTERLY FOOD BANK FREE-WILL OFFERING

On Sunday, October 20th, during both the 8:00AM and 10:00AM services, we are inviting the Cathedral Congregation to participate in the quarterly free-will offering to support the St. James Food Bank. On this special Sunday, all cash gifts and any checks with the memo line “Food Bank” offered during the collection will be given to support the ministry of the St. James Food Bank. The St. James Food Bank is blessed to have YOUR support—YOUR financial and food donations. This ministry is thriving because of your generosity and prayers. THANK YOU! Please support the St. James Food Bank on Sunday, October 20th.

2019 FRESNO/CLOVIS CROP HUNGER WALK Join the St. James Team on Sunday, October 20th!

You can make a difference in local AND global hunger by walking in our CROP Hunger Walk this year. If you can't walk, please sponsor Team St. James. Together we are raising money to fight hunger and to walk in solidarity with all the people around the world who are walking for food, for water, and for firewood every day. To sign up to walk, please check at the Crop Hunger Walk table outside the church front doors. To donate, a check made out to CWS/Crop will be happily accepted, cash, too, or donations may be made online. Let's flight hunger together! When: Sunday, October 20th Location: First Congregational Church of Fresno, 2131 N Van Ness Blvd., Fresno, CA Sign In Time: 1:30PM Walk Time: 2:30PM

October's Youth Activity is a Halloween Party! Come in your spookiest costume, trick or treat for goodies, take your scariest photo booth pictures, and carve your best pumpkin. First prize for best costume is $25 Starbucks Card, with other prizes for all participants. Best pumpkin will receive a $20 Starbucks Card and be featured in the Midweek Missive the following week! RSVP for the party so we can have enough food and goodies for everyone! Click below to send Kourinthia an email telling her you're coming. 

RSVP for a Spook-tacular time!

FOOD BANK COLLECTION Pasta Sauce

The St. James Food Bank needs our assistance to stock the shelves! For the next couple of weeks, we are asking the Cathedral Congregation to bring on Sundays jars of the PASTA SAUCE for the Food Bank. A cart will be located at the entrance of the Chapel and the Cathedral for the collection. Thank you for your continued support of the St. James Food Bank!

CHAPTER MEETING The October meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 20th, 12:00PM - 1:30PM. Following the meeting, we are hoping Chapter Members will join us at the Crop Walk.

CHOIR REHEARSALS Choir have resumed rehearsing on Thursday evenings, 6:30PM-8:00PM, in the Chapel. If you are interested in joining Choir, please come to rehearsal. For more information, please contact Sherah.

BIBLE STUDY- THE BOOK OF REVELATION The mid-week Bible Study has returned. The study is led by Emily Niblick and meets weekly on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 10:00AM to 11:00AM, in the Fireside Room.

CENTRAL DEANERY MEETING The Cathedral is hosting the Central Deanery Meeting in the Fireside Room on October 12, 10:00AM-12:00PM. It is a great opportunity to come and represent the Cathedral to the Diocese, meet members of the laity and clergy throughout the Valley, and get more information on the upcoming Diocesan Convention October 25-26.

MEN'S GROUP The next breakfast gathering is scheduled for Saturday, November 2nd, 7:30AM at Yosemite Falls Cafe (across from the Cathedral).

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE The next meeting will be Saturday, November 2nd, at 9:00AM in the Conference Room.

California Church celebrates its newly sainted Patron A California congregation named for one of The Episcopal Church’s newest saints, St. Anna Alexander, celebrated its namesake at a Sunday worship service that included a visit from two members of the church that Alexander helped establish in Pennick, Georgia.

WATCH: Presiding Bishop brings "Way of Love" to London Punctuated by laughter and rousing applause, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry addressed a capacity crowd of 2,200 people at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, on Oct. 3, bringing a message of how love is the only thing that has the power to change the world.

Archbishop's vision for Anglican Communion Anglican Primates, bishops, clergy and laity from provinces in East Asia today heard the Archbishop of Canterbury give a powerful vision for the ministry of the Anglican Communion.

Former Anglican UN rep to be reconciliation adviser A former Anglican Communion staff member has been appointed as the Archbishop of Canterbury’s new Adviser for Reconciliation.

If you have any feedback, comments, or questions for the Midweek Missive Editors, please email us . Submissions to the Midweek Missive are welcomed and must be submitted to midweek@stjamesfresno.org by Tuesday at noon.

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