NEWSLETTER
Thursday, July 14, 2022
|
|
REV. MICHAEL-RAY MATHEWS TO DELIVER
STAGG LECTURES IN
PROPHETIC CHRISTIANITY
We are pleased to announce that on Saturday and Sunday, October 15 and 16, Rev. Michael-Ray Mathews will deliver the Frank and Evelyn Stagg Lectures in Prophetic Christianity at Northminster. Michael-Ray is the visionary immediate past president of the Alliance of Baptists having served a four-year tenure. He brings over 30 years of leadership experience – as a senior pastor, grassroots leader, psalmist and community organizer – to his work as Deputy Director for Faith in Action (formerly PICO National Network). He is the host of the Prophetic Resistance Podcast, where he engages multi-faith leaders in conversations about cultivating communities of belonging and sacred resistance to injustice.
Michael-Ray is co-editor of Trouble the Waters: A Christian Resource for the Work of Racial Justice published by the Alliance of Baptists. A visiting professor of public theology at American Baptist Seminary of the West in Berkeley, he is also a senior fellow at Auburn Seminary in New York. Michael-Ray is co-founder of and public theologian-in-residence with Sympara, a multifaith/interspiritual community of practice, repurposing spiritual assets for the common good.
The working theme of the lectures are the themes explored in his podcast: Prophetic Resistance & Revolutionary Love. Michael-Ray will present two lectures on Saturday morning in the Northminster sanctuary and will also deliver the sermon at Northminster on Sunday morning. The lectures and sermon will also be live-streamed and archived on Northminster’s YouTube channel.
The Frank and Evelyn Stagg Lectures in Prophetic Christianity were established at Northminster in the 1990’s by Welton and Judy Gaddy and Don and Cathe Nixon. Welton was then Northminster’s senior pastor, Don it’s minister of the arts and Cathe it’s Director of Christian Education. In Northminster’s early days Dr. and Mrs. Stagg were frequent guests with Dr. Stagg preaching on several memorable occasions, including at the ground-breaking for the construction of Northminster’s building, at its dedication, both in 1991, and at Dr. Gaddy’s installation as Northminster’s first pastor in January of 1993. Several of Dr. Stagg’s Northminster sermons are included in Dr. Gaddy’s book Coming Home: For All Who Dream of a New Church, a history of Northminster’s early days. The Staggs were important mentors to Northminster.
Dr. Frank Stagg, a native of Eunice, Louisiana, was a theologian, seminary professor, author and pastor over a 50-year career. Dr. Stagg died in 2001 at age 89. He taught New Testament interpretation and Greek at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary from 1945 until 1965 and at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky from 1964 until 1978 (all before the fundamentalist takeover of the SBC). His publications, recognitions and honors earned him distinction as one of the eminent theologians of the past century. Known as a progressive activist, he addressed a variety of contemporary issues including civil rights, gender equity, Vietnam, the First Gulf War, ecumenism and aging.
Frank met Evelyn, a native of Ruston, at Louisiana College in Pineville where they were both students. They were married in 1936. Evelyn wanted to pursue a seminary degree and become ordained. When Frank was enrolled in the Master of Divinity program at Southern Seminary in Louisville later in the 1930’s, Evelyn was permitted to take the same classes and sit for all the exams, but she could not receive credit since the seminary did not grant degrees to women! However, she performed so well that she was asked to grade the papers of the beginning students in New Testament Greek. It is reported that when grades were posted the men were listed by name with the added notation that “one unnamed woman” made one of the few A’s.
Evelyn and Frank co-wrote the book Woman in the World of Jesus, an important early work championing equity for women in the church. A trailblazer for Southern Baptist women in ministry, she was an authority on classical studies, which led to her extensive research on the cultural/historical status and treatment of women in the ancient world and in the world into which Jesus was born. In 1983 Evelyn was one of 33 women who helped found an organization known today as Baptist Women in Ministry. Evelyn died at age 96 in 2011.
|
|
Dr. Stagg preaching at Northminster |
|
Dr. and Mrs. Stagg and Dr. Gaddy prep[are for Dr. Gaddy's installation, January 1993. |
|
Join us for Worship
Sunday, July 17, 2022
|
|
Dr. C. Welton Gaddy preaches:
Whose Church Is It?
Click the photo to view our Sunday service
|
|
SUNDAY, July 17, 2022
The Hymns
The Church’s One Foundation (AURELIA)
This hymn was written by Samuel Stone, a young priest in a poor district of Oxford, England. Published in 1866 as a part of a collection, he based the text on Article 9 of the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in the holy universal church…” and I Corinthians 3:11, “For other foundation can no one lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” The hymn tune AURELIA was written by Samuel S. Wesley to set a wedding hymn and later matched with this hymn, its most popular pairing by far.
Give Thanks for Music Making Art (SAND)
This hymn was written by contemporary hymn writer Brian Wren praises God for the gift of music in inspiring authentic worship and gives thanks for the music makers. The hymn tune SAND was composed by D. H. Clark for a celebration of Sand Lawn’s ministry of music making. Sand was our associate director of music and organist for a number of years. The 8-note melodic phrase that opens the tune and is repeated toward the end is derived from assigning one letter of the alphabet after “G” to a note in an ascending chromatic scale beginning on C. Since A-G occur in every octave, they are used in their original pitches. The notes corresponding to “SANDLAWN” become F#, A, C#, D, B, A, A#, and C#. The floral offering this Sunday is given my Marilyn Decker in honor of Sand’s legacy and in his memory. Sand’s ashes are inurned in our columbarium. You may wish to take a moment to visit before or after the service.
Renew Your Church (ALL IS WELL)
Kenneth Cober, son of missionaries in Puerto Rico who has served many church are a Christian educator composed this text which is a prayer to become authentic, Christ like church. The tune is used in the hymn “Come, Come Ye Saints,” very popular and almost a “theme song” in the Church of Latter Day Saints.
The Anthems
Be Now My Vision
John Rutter created a beautiful choral setting of this prophetic prayer which has ancient Irish roots. It is sung to a traditional Irish melody, SLANE, in most hymnals.
Lamb of God Most Holy
A paraphrase of portion of the mass that says: “Lamb of God who takes away the worlds sin, have mercy upon us.” It was composed by F. Melius Christiansen, born in Norway, founder of the St. Olaf Choir in Northfield, Minnesota.
|
|
The Prayers of the People |
|
We pray alongside.....
The oppression and suffering of the innocents in war torn countries.
Those with unspoken prayer requests.
Stephen Payne in the passing of his mother, Inez Payne, at age 101. Her memorial service will be Friday, July 22 at 2 pm at Temple Baptist Church in Ruston. A time of visitation will precede the service beginning at 1 pm.
Patti Bewick, sister of Carol Ann Tubbs, having cancer surgery this week.
New Pastor Jillian Hankamer, as she and her husband Erich prepare to move to Louisiana in July.
Montserrat Miller, cousin of D.H. Clark, serious illness.
Hugh Chandler, father of Debi Chandler, advanced Alzheimer's.
Sister of Tim Jaquess (Sammye) recovering from brain surgery, soon to be moved from rehab to assisted living and will follow up with radiation treatments for remaining tumors.
Judy Eddington, dealing with a serious medical condition.
Dibble Pate, recovering from hip surgery in the Guesthouse, Room 500 in West Monroe. Dibble is now accepting calls and visitors. Her landline number is 318-362-5903.
Tracy and Mary Sandow dealing with serious medical issues.
Our friends and sister church, Iglesia Bautista Enmanuel in Ciego de Avila, Cuba experiencing many economic hardships.
|
|
The Celebrations of the People |
|
We celebrate alongside.....
Anita Breen (18th), Craig Henry (20th), and Conn McCandlish (20th),as they celebrate their birthdays.
|
|
July Mission Trunk Emphasis:
Exit 318 (A Goodwill Industry of North LA)
July’s mission trunk focus is the program EXIT-318, which stands for Ex-Offenders in Transition, a program funded by the Department of Corrections, presenting a re-entry accountability plan and program designed to reduce recidivism through a variety of services provided to assist with the transition from institutionalization to community integration. This is a program supported by many companies and local businesses, with a home base in Goodwill Industries.
Needs: Basic necessities: deodorant, razors/shaving cream, shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush. Towels, washcloths. New undergarments, socks. Basic cleaning supplies: broom/dustpan, mop, dishwashing liquid, laundry soap, 409, Windex, etc. Bedding: pillows, sheets, pillowcases, blankets, comforters. Coats and other clothing. Gift cards are not advised.
|
|
NORTHMINSTER FOLKS ARE GENEROUS “PASTOR POUNDERS”!
A big “THANK YOU” to all of you who have signed up to “pound” the Hankamers. Your generosity means there are only a few items left from our initial list. Because of that, the Coordinating Council is suggesting that monetary gifts can also be given. Jillian and Erich will have additional expenses in their move, and a little extra change can certainly help out. For example, as many of you know, Erich drove one of their vehicles down last week in order to get started with his new soccer coaching job at Ruston High School and to begin setting up their house in Monroe. $300 for gasoline! Fortunately, frequent flyer miles will take him back to Pennsylvania next week, but they still have one vehicle to drive here. And to register the vehicles in Louisiana, utility deposits, etc., etc. It adds up!
So, if you would like to make a monetary gift to Jillian and Erich to help with these incidental expenses, please write a check to Northminster or give on our website and note “Hankamer pounding” or just “pounding” on the memo line.
As of newsletter press time here are the items that still have not been signed up for:
Package dried black beans
Package dried chickpeas
Package dried lentils
Ketchup
Seventh Generation "free and clear" dryer sheets
Hand soap in dispensers
Spray and Wash (or similar)
Tub and Tile cleaner
If you would like to give one or more of these items, please call Renee in the church office (318-388-3717) to let her know. Or you can sign up for them on Sunday if they are still not taken. The sign-up sheet is on the table in the hallway off the narthex. And for those of you wondering what all this “pounding the pastor” is about, check out last week’s newsletter (on Northminster’s website) for an explanation!
For everyone who has signed up for a pounding item or items please bring them to the church by Sunday, July 24. Also, if you are giving money, please give it by the same date. Jillian and Erich will be arriving in Monroe the next week with Jillian’s first sermon at Northminster as pastor being on Sunday, July 31. And of course, pounding items and money will be welcome even if arriving after the 24th!
|
|
Sunday, July 17 at 6pm-Potluck and Business Meeting
We will have our Potluck at 6pm followed by the Bi-Monthly Business Meeting at 7pm. One item for discussion and approval will be our "Welcoming and Affirming Statement".
|
|
|
Commissions: 2023 Budget Review
By now every member of each commission should have received by email the information needed to plan their 2023 budget. These items included (1) the most recent financial report for this year, (2) the end of year (2021) financial report from Connie, and (3) your worksheet for 2023. Your proposed budget is due in the church office by Sunday, July 31.
|
|
|
Northminster COVID Information
Northminster follows state and CDC guidelines and accordingly recommends that if you are at high risk for severe illness - talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions; stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines; and get tested if you have symptoms. Immune compromised and unvaccinated individuals, and anyone experiencing cold or other illness symptoms continue to wear masks during our services.
|
|
|
VBS July 31- August 3
5:30m-7:30pm
Vacation Bible School 2022 will take place this year at Northminster beginning Sunday, July 31 and run through Wednesday August 3 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm.. If you have any question, please contact Beth Mayfield at beth@mayfieldconstruction.net or 348-2529
|
|
|
Northminster Book Club
A big "Thank You" to Camille and Al Peterson for hosting our Book Club in June. We had a great group of 16 folks and if you are interested in joining the fun contact Debi Chandler at chandler@ulm.edu.
The next book is Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd. Potluck and book discussion will be in the home of Kyle Gregory on August 18 at 6pm.
|
|
|
Congratulations Again to Ella Mayfield!
Another congratulations to Ella who is in France this week. The WWII Museum offered her a trip to Normandy with their tour group for winning the State History Competition!
|
|
|
Upcoming Events
This Sunday
9:00 am - Choir Practice
10:00 am - Sunday School for Children (K-5),
Youth, and Adults
10:45 am - Preludes
11:00 am - Sunday Morning Liturgy
Sunday, July 31 - 5th Sunday Lunch
YOUTH: Check our Instagram page for any upcoming summer activities!
Wednesdays
6:30 pm - Choir practice. Choir will not meet during the month of July but will still meet Sunday mornings at 9am
|
|
Pulpit Supply Schedule
July
17 - Dr. Welton Gaddy
24 - Dr. Welton Gaddy
31 - Rev. Jillian Hankamer
|
|
Of Interest in the Community |
|
|
|
CA Studio in Collaboration with Strauss Theatre Center presents: Stoneface: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Buster Keaton
Performance Dates: July 14-16 2022 at Strauss Theatre Center
Directed by Cathy Airhart Webb. Justin Havard is the Piano Player (silent film accompanist) and Pat Hayes is doing costumes.
|
|
Mamma Mia at South Arkansas
Arts Center
The Summer Musical for South Arkansas Arts Center in Eldorado, Arkansas, Mamma Mia, opens on July 14. Performances are at 7:30 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 2:30 PM on Sundays. Dates are July 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24. Tickets may be obtained by ordering online at www.SAAC-arts.org or by calling the box office at 870-862-5474.
D. H. Clark is Musical Director. Cherrie Sciro, who has attended our church, is the Director. D.H. reports that the production is going well. There is a strong cast with excellent singing, dancing, and acting. Cherrie has been assistant producer to Cameron Mcintosh, who produced many Broadway and West End hits such as Les Miserable, Phantom of the Opera, and Miss Saigon. She is professor of theater at Louisiana Tech. D. H. and Cherrie directed the production at Strauss in 2019.
|
|
This past Sunday's floral offering was given to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Ernest Marvin Decker.
Arrangement by Marilyn Decker.
Due to budgetary constraints, altar flowers will only be provided if giving in memory or in honor of someone.
Cost is approximately $100.
|
|
The Floral Offering on July 17th
On Sunday, July 17, the floral offering will be given to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Sand Lawn. Sand was Associate Director of Music and Organist until the time of his passing in 2014.
Sand Lawn—Recollections
By D. H. Clark
Marilyn Decker, a long-time member of Northminster, choir alto, and creator of breath-taking floral art in our church, is giving the altar offering this Sunday in honor of Sand Lawn’s legacy at Northminster and in his loving memory. Thank you, Marilyn. This gesture encourages all of us to pause and remember just what this man meant to all of us who were blessed to know him. I would like to share a few memories and stories with you.
God gifted us with Sand’s coming to Northminster thanks to an invitation and recommendation of one of our members who happened to be a fine musician himself, Frank Parker. Sand was born in West Monroe. He was a child prodigy. He played piano so well that at the age of around 10, he had his own weekly television show on the first TV station in Monroe, KFAZ, Channel 23, a UHF (as opposed to VHF, as KNOE that came several years later in 1953) with studios on Forsythe, near the railroad crossing. He was paid the astounding sum of $50 per week. Few adults made that kind of money in those days.
Sand went on to become an accomplished musical director in Broadway theater. Based in New York most of his career, he toured the world with such shows as Grease. He said that while on tour, among the cast and crew, he was the “designated church goer.” Wherever he was, he always made a point to go to church on Sunday. He shared with us that his reason was that he was looking for the perfect church, i.e. one with good music and sound theology. More about that later.
Sand, like many other fine keyboard players, became an accomplished organist, a good way to supplement his income, since theater schedules and church schedules did not conflict. He served John Street Methodist Church in lower Manhattan for many years. One of his passions was the history of organs in churches. If one were to ask, “What kind of organ is in First Methodist Omaha?” without hesitation he would say something like, “Oh yes, a 67-rank Schantz, circa 1988.” Over the years, he compiled a catalog of all the Aeolian Skinner organ installations in the US. This was ultimately published by the Organ Historical Society and is a text often referred to by organists and organ builders today—the definitive catalog.
I will share a few of the anecdotes he shared with me in our long-time friendship. When he was about 15 years old, he convinced his mother that he was sufficiently mature. So, she allowed him to travel, unaccompanied, by bus to Dallas to see the great opera diva Maria Callas in concert. He survived the trip without incident and, actually, met Ms. Callas in the lobby of the Adolphus Hotel. This was undoubtedly engraved in his memory forever, as it should be.
He had several tête a têtes with Stephen Sondheim. Whether or not they actually kissed is embedded in apocryphal history. He almost froze to death, while on tour with Grease, in Berlin during the worst winter of the 20th century in central Europe. During his tenure here, he befriended and became a sort of mentor to Charles Creech who can probably tell more stories than I. Suffice it to say, a good biography of Sand would be a best-seller.
I remember his kindness and patience with us amateurs. (His patience did have its limits!) After he returned home and to us, he worked tirelessly with Strauss Theater Center, especially with Cathy Airhart and Vickie Krutzer on many shows. His gifts to this community were beyond measure.
He shared that when Frank recommended Northminster to him, he came and sat through a service. His initial impression was that, at last, he had found what he had searched for all over the world, “the perfect church.” Ah, Sand! What memories! What gifts you brought! You challenge us to live up to your initial impression of us. I am not sure we are there quite yet. With God’s help and that of our new pastor Jillian, we must continue to work toward that lofty goal.
This Sunday we plan to have the columbarium garden open. Please take a moment to visit Sand’s inurnment niche and say to him, “Thank you, Sand Lawn. We miss you deeply.”
|
|
If you have found a space of community, or healing, or hope at Northminster and believe in the work we are doing, please consider supporting us financially so that we will be able to continue creating spaces like this in all the days to come.
To support Northminster financially, you can click here, or scan the QR code with the camera on your phone.
|
|
|
Northminster Church is located at:
2701 Lamy Lane
Monroe, LA 71201
318-388-3717
office@northmin.org
Temporary Church Office Hours:
Tues -Thurs 9am to 4 pm
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
