Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast
August 25, 2021
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Together, we are the body of Christ ~ transforming people from members into disciples, moving more deeply into God's call to life and ministry, and extending our mission beyond the status quo. |
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If one part suffers, every part suffers with it... ~1 Corinthians 12:26
There has been so much heartbreaking news lately. As Christians, we often feel called to help solve global issues - the devastation in Haiti, the unrest in Afghanistan, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet right now all these challenges can seem so overwhelming we don't know where to begin or even know how we can respond in order to ease the world's suffering. In addition to our praying, there are a few ways the Episcopal Church is extending aid and resources to those who need it most. As you are able, we invite you to consider the following:
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Beckwith to Offer Fall Retreats |
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Beckwith is extending their hospitality this fall season by offering several ways for you to enjoy God's Front Yard while joining others from around the diocese for a time of fellowship and retreat.
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Let your light shine and inspire others by sharing your ministry with the rest of the diocese. Send your story to us here.
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New College Ministry in Pensacola Area |
“The Point” There now is a vibrant Episcopal college ministry at the University of West Florida (and Pensacola State College) helping our young adults deepen their bond with Jesus and each other. If someone in your congregation is attending college in the Pensacola area (or vocational school), they would have a great time and be blessed by joining this group of young adults. They meet weekly at local eateries and all young adults are invited to attend, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey. For more information, contact its coordinator, Brenan Woody, or Fr. Rob Dixon, at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 850-477-8596 or officehc@holycrosspensacola.org. |
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Church of the Nativity in Dothan had a fantastic Backpack Sunday on August 22. Not only did all students receive a bag tag and a blessing - but they also got sprinkled with Holy Water! Prayers for a safe school year full of learning and friendships. |
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Cheering on Healthcare Workers |
Last week, friends of the Beloved Community Outreach Center gathered outside Springhill Medical Center in Mobile holding posters to display their messages of love and support for the healthcare heroes working endlessly to tend the sick and suffering. |
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Youth Ministry Events
Postponed Friday, August 27 through Sunday, August 29 at Beckwith
DioCGC Young Music Leaders Summit: “I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever”
This weekend! Sunday, August 29 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Beckwith
Worship on the Water – A Diocesan-wide Fall Youth Kickoff Event
Worship on the Water is a recurring event at Beckwith Camp and Conference Center, where youth gather to celebrate Eucharist, play games together, swim and canoe, tie-dye and share a meal. This event is an amazing way to build community between church EYC groups, help our youth identify as part of the greater Diocese and Episcopal Church, and strengthen individual youth group relationships as you travel to an off-site event.
This year's music for the Eucharist will be an offering from students participating in the DioCGC Youth Musicians Leadership Summit!
There is a small cost per student to help cover supply costs and event T-Shirts.
SAVE-THE-DATE
November 12-14 at Beckwith
Happening #58
This event will be held for seniors in high school only. Happening is a weekend spiritual retreat for teenagers led by teenagers and supported by clergy and adult staff. Registration coming soon.
February 4-6 at Beckwith
Happening #59
This event will be open to youth in grades 10th-12th. Happening is a weekend spiritual retreat for teenagers led by teenagers and supported by clergy and adult staff. Registration coming soon.
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CANCELLED September 17-19 at Beckwith
Men's Conference
The 40th Annual Men's Conference, scheduled for September 17-19, has been cancelled.
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UPDATE - Moved to virtual Saturday, September 18, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT
Racial Reconciliation Sacred Conversations
Join us for a workshop that will provide insights into the causes and effects of racism. We explore unconscious bias, prejudice, white privilege, and ways to work together to Become the Beloved Community. This offering is required for those in
parish leadership (such as vestries) and at the diocesan level (including serving on commissions, committees, agencies, or boards). It also qualified for eight hours of clergy training/education for those who complete the full-cay course. There is no fee to participate, but it requires the commitment to be engaged the full day. Limited to not more than 30 participants.
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September 24-26 at Beckwith
BayLights is the annual diocesan homecoming weekend filled with fun, fellowship and fundraising for our beloved camp and conference center.
Even if you can't make it to BayLights in person, don't forget you can still purchase a Draw Down ticket. The winner is the last ticket drawn: The prize is one week stay in Tuscany, Italy or Antigua for two or four people. There are two trips to give away this year!
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Church & Community Events |
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Thursdays in September, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. CDT
Outdoor concert series. You are welcome to bring your own beverages and food, but food will also be available from a food truck and St. Christopher's concession. Follow the link for band and food truck schedule.
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September 2, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. CDT
Come out for St. Peter's Bon Secour yearly fish fry, held every first Thursday during the months of June through October!
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Hosting a church related event that is open to everyone? Submit it to be considered for publication. |
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Video Series Available for Group or Individual Use
As we move back into the church program year, here's is a reminder that there are resources available for your use. Over the last several years, Bishop Russell and his office staff have created several video series on a variety of topics suitable for groups or individuals:
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St. Simon's on the Sound, Fort Walton Beach, is seeking Children and Youth Ministries Director. DETAILS
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From The Episcopal Church |
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Prayers from Presiding Bishop Michael Curry
For the people of Haiti
Eternal God, send forth your Spirit to encourage and strengthen the people of Haiti in these difficult times. We pray especially for those impacted by the recent earthquake. Encourage and strengthen those who help and support others. In your mercy, receive the souls of those who have died; comfort their families and loved ones. Surround with your presence the sick and suffering. Aid the work of those who still search and rescue. Empower the medical and aid workers and all who labor to heal.
Likewise, inspire and empower the resolve of the nations and peoples of the world to be your instruments of help and healing. Stir up the might of your love and compassion among the nations to rally resources and stay the course until the humanitarian job is accomplished.
Lastly, enfold and uphold the people of Haiti—from the youngest newly born to the oldest among us—in the arms of your love and the strength of your might. This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For the people of Afghanistan
Eternal God, hear our prayer for the peoples of Afghanistan. There is a profound humanitarian crisis. Countless people, mostly women and children, are now fleeing and vulnerable. The lives of many are now endangered. The hopes of many are forgone. Send your Spirit, Lord, to rally the resolve of the nations of the earth to find pathways to save human lives, protect human rights, and to resolve the hardships of those seeking refuge, asylum, and safety. Hear our prayer for the peoples of Afghanistan. This we pray as followers of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Amen.
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Season of Creation September 1 through October 4
The Season of Creation, September 1 through October 4, is celebrated by Christians around the world as a time for renewing, repairing and restoring our relationship to God, one another, and all of creation. The Episcopal Church joins this international effort for prayer and action for climate justice and an end to environmental racism and ecological destruction. This year’s theme is A home for all? Renewing the Oikos of God, and the Season of Creation 2021 Celebration Guide is now available with event ideas, prayers, resources, and more!
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MORE FROM THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH |
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Bishop Russell's Upcoming Visitations |
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August 29
St. Agatha's, DeFuniak Springs
September 5
Epiphany, Crestview
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August 29
St. Augustine, Navarre
September 5
Christ Church Parish, Pensacola
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August 29
Baldwin County Jail, Bay Minette
September 5
Crenshaw County Jail, Luverne
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Please be sure to direct any mail for the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast to our post office address: PO Box 13330, Pensacola, FL 32591-3330. |
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Coastline is a publication of the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast, published on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.
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