Thursday, November 9, 2023 - Light in the Darkness | |
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Dear Friends in Christ,
The pictures, video, and stories which continue to emerge from Gaza are beyond heart-breaking. Many innocent Palestinians, including thousands of children, are paying for the evils of Hamas. The crisis defies all easy solutions; a "Gordian knot" of human suffering. I direct your attention to the recent statement from our Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry, in which he calls for the killing to stop and humanitarian aid to flow. If you would like a space to discuss the conflict and the larger issues at play (or to simply sip and listen), come to the back room of Three Lions Pub in Shorewood at 5:15pm today for Theology by the Pint. More info below.
On a much brighter note, that was one of the most joyful All Saints Sundays in recent memory, particularly the 9:30am service: the music, the baptisms, the children's comments during the all-ages sermon. And then to feel the depth of the silence at the tolling of the bells as we read the names of all who have passed into the nearer presence of Christ over this last year. Stunning.
Attendance for both services was 245 people, which compares to 239 (2018) and 255 (2019). But unlike before COVID, this year we had an additional 25 people who watched the livestream and then 50 more who watched later in the week. Incredible. Thanks be to God.
In a world of such deep distrust and loneliness, people continue to seek the light and warmth of spiritual community. Newcomers include recovering evangelicals, disenchanted Catholics, people from the Protestant mainline who have fallen in love with the rhythms of Anglican worship, even a few adult converts to Jesus' Way of Love. I personally give thanks for such a hospitable, open-armed community.
And together we give thanks for the continued movement of the Spirit among us, for Christ's light in the midst of the darkness
Seth+
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Intercessory prayer is at the heart of a Christian community.
Please offer your prayers for the following people.*
Especially Now for Parishioners: Willie Jolly, Joanne Smith (RIP)
Especially Now for family and friends: Jay (friend of Kathy Stanford), Faqiong Ye (RIP) Grandmother of Lei Zhen, Judy Valentine (RIP), sister of Janis Blean Kachigan
Long Term for parishioners : Elizabeth Casey, Darrell Lile, Isaiah Dietrich, Gary Laev, Mary Meyers, Chris Binder, Barb Larkin, Pam Eversfield, Karol Rehm, Martha Vogel, Genevieve, Gigi Short, Tim Hancock, Grace Anne Cochrane, Rachel Kolb, Mark McLaughlin, Cathy Martin Braun
Long Term for family and friends: Colin Brewer (friend of Maureen Oster) George (brother of Mary Kay Anderson), Kathy Kant (friend of Kjell Johansen) , Craig Smith (friend of Seth Dietrich) Sue & Jerry Hiller, Debi Chier Schmidlkofer, (friend of Catherine Davidson), Jeff Jones (friend of Andy McKinley), Richard Morgan (father of Paula Stone), George Kashou (brother in law of Sandy Kashou), Jill, John H. (friend of Julie Thauer), Joe Rosenfield (friend of Helen & James Benton), Ann, Cameron (friend of Julie Thauer & John Andritsch), Wyatt Woods (great nephew of DeDe Pitrof), Greg Carter (cousin of Fred Delmenhorst), Dave Altick (cousin of Kitty Sturrock), Ian (friend of Willette Knopp), Christopher & Cindy and Christine (relatives of Ira Leidel), Katie & Gabe Benavides (daughter and son-in-law of Diane & Jack Holzman), TajMahal Dirbas (mother of Sandy Kashou), Danial Oakley (nephew of Sandy & Bob Kashou)
We also pray for the people in places shattered by war, especially Israel and Gaza. We pray for all who have died, and all who mourn. We pray for the end of the killing of the innocent, and for all those leaders discerning the path of peace and justice.
Homebound: Grace Haydon
Serving in the Armed Forces: Josh Currier, (grandson of Elizabeth Klijnsmit)
Teo C. Garcia (brother of Jennifer Garcia Jetton) Jacob Vogt (nephew of Bridget Elliott), Charlie Kobussen (son of Denise & Tim Kobussen), Billy Manger and Tanner Plomb (nephews of DeDe Pitrof), Matthew Herbstreith (son of Tom Herbstreith ), Anthony Oakley (nephew of Sandy & Bob Kashou)
Parents expecting: Sally & Trevor Adams (daughter of Debbie & John Roesner)
This Sunday's Altar Flowers:
Offered to the Glory of God and in thanksgiving for all of God's blessings
Birthdays This Week: Elizabeth Draper, Chip Kubly, Brent Field, Tim Stumm, Jeanne Maxon, Ken Baumeister, Jayne Jordan, Ted Durant, Nora Miller, Drew Morse, Susan Sokol, Lawton Stickroot
Anniversaries:
*If you would like to add a name to the Prayer List:
email Fr. Seth and Heidi Behlke. You must have permission from the person you are adding. Include your relationship to the person and, if you are willing, a brief reason for the request which will be shared with the clergy and prayer team. This helps to create a connection to the person prayed for beyond simply their name and will be kept strictly confidential.
**Please let Heidi know if we have missed your birthday or anniversary.
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Tonight! Thursday, November 9th at 5:15pm.
Fr. Seth convenes a casual "pub conversation" one Thursday a month at 5:15pm in the back room at Three Lions Pub in Shorewood.
Next Topic:
Israel and Palestine
Such a complex conflict that seems like an unsolvable "Gordian knot" of human suffering. Perhaps together we can at least learn more about the complexities of the issue.
Thursday, Nov 9 at 5:15pm@ Three Lions Pub in Shorewood. No prep needed. Simple discussion questions can be found HERE.
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Men’s Retreat: THIS SATURDAY
A Human Fully Alive
Saturday, November 11 - 9am to 4pm (optional overnight stay on Saturday night is encouraged for those who can make it work!) Holy Wisdom Monastery, Madison, WI
Sign up here. Contact Fr. Seth for more information
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Wednesday, November 15, 5:30 pm - 7:00pm in the J.T Room
Make your voice heard!
Neal Johnson, a former Christ Church parishioner, needs our help for a study on traffic safety in Wisconsin. We will be discussing ways to improve traffic safety messaging to the Wisconsin public. Focus groups will be moderated by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), as part of a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). Participants will receive a $50 gift card for participating. Please register at this link. For questions please contact: Neal Johnson.
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Thanksgiving Eve Service
Wednesday, November 22nd at 5:30pm
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24th Sunday after Pentecost
November 12, 2023
8am service Holy Eucharist, Quiet service
9:30 service - Holy Eucharist, Music with congregational singing.
*This service is also live-streamed on YouTube
and on the Christ Church website.
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Serving This Sunday: November 12, 2023
8:00 am Service
Greeter/Usher: Denton Jones
Acolyte/Reader: Randy Dean
9:30 am Service
Vestry Greeters: Jackie Kuehn, Derek Riley
Crucifer + Torchbearers: Julian Worthy, Lila Hermann, James Hinchey
Ushers: *Beth Durant, Rick Donner, David Short
Newcomer Host: Sarah Gottlieb
Lector: Donna Recht
Prayer Reader: George Marek
Eucharistic Ministers: Clergy, Wes Dubic, Sarah Gottlieb, Jennifer Jetton
Altar Guild: Team 2 - Cindy Jensen, Kay Antonelli, Rosemarie Bwechwa, Lydia Gone, Penny Ziegler
Hospitality: Service - Elizabeth Casey, Jan Effinger
Clean up - Andrew and Jennifer Jetton
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Dear Christ Church Community,
Many, many thanks to all those who have made a financial pledge to the parish for 2024. Your generosity will help pass the faith for generations to come, and assist the vestry and finance committee in setting the 2024 budget.
We are hoping to have all pledges in by Sunday, November 12. Pledging can be done by 1) mailing the pledge card you received, 2) snapping a photo of your pledge card and sending it to Heidi or 3) or filling out the online pledge card found here.
We are so grateful you would consider a pledge for 2024.
2024 Stewardship Team
Beth Durant (Chair), Steve Bruemmer, Loni Hagerup, Joan King,
Julie Thauer, The Rev. Seth Dietrich
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Stewardship Moments
Randy Dean shares his story for Christ Church on October 15, 2023 here. Read Anna Floch Arcello's story from October 22, 2023 about how she came to Christ Church in the transcript here. See the video here:
Hear George Marek's stewardship moment here
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Stewardship FAQs
1. What is a pledge?
A pledge is a sacred commitment to give a certain portion of household income to the parish for the following calendar year. In many ways, it is a spiritual practice. On a practical level, it helps us form the parish budget for next year.
2. What do people typically give?
At Christ Church, pledges range from $150 to $25,000. Last year, 183 households pledged with an average pledge of $3,785. Everyone is in a very different financial position, and every pledge is deeply appreciated.
3. What is the concept of "tithing?"
Like many Christian traditions, the Episcopal Church encourages "the biblical standard of the tithe for financial stewardship" (Canon III 6.2.iii). Tithing 10% of income comes from the practice of the ancient Israelites bringing the first 10% of their harvest to the Temple. While some of us are there; many of us are still on the journey to get there.
4. Who knows about my pledge?
Pledging amounts are kept highly confidential. Only the financial administrator, Heidi Behlke, and Fr. Seth have access.
5. What if I have questions about parish finances?
We are more than happy to provide a copy of the parish budget as well as answer any questions. Contact the parish wardens, Steve Bruemmer or Penny Cruse for more information.
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Past FORUM presentations are recorded and stored for later viewing here and here | |
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1Week to Go!
November 19th 10am - Noon in the Great Hall
WHAT is Gifts of Hope? Gifts of Hope is Christ Church's annual alternative giving fair. Instead of buying a tangible gift, your donation will go to support one (or more!) of the 17 local and international charitable organizations attending. Each organization will have an informational table and offer representative gifts to show how your donation can make a real difference. Anything from school supplies for Haiti to hot meals at the Hospitality Center. Visit the tables to learn more, select something for yourself, or make a donation in honor of a loved one on your Christmas list. We will have gift acknowledgment cards available at check out.
WHO is invited? EVERYONE! This event isn't just for adults. We will have Gifts of Hope passports for kids to get stamped, and parents can also purchase Angel Dollars for their kids to donate to an organization that speaks to them.
Questions? Email Cabrini King.
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Pot Planters, porch and patio decorators!
...is this opportunity for you?
Do you have that flair for pairing just the right flowers and ivy that catch a person’s eye? Or do you just enjoy seeing beautiful creations by the doors at church and want to support that ministry? We are looking for a few folks interested in working with our gurus of the gorgeous gladiolas to learn tricks of the trade. We also need folks who can be a regular waterer during the summer. Please contact Susan Dreyfus or Betsy Head
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Volunteer Opportunity
Next meal serving at Saint Vincent De Paul is Monday November 20th at All Peoples Church 430-6pm.
Please contact Lynne Schley if you can help.
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All Peoples Church Pantry LOVES your red Sendik's grocery bags!
Keep saving them, bring them to church and drop off in the red wagon or give to Lynne Schley. Thank you!
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Our Next Generation:
Consider volunteering!
Christ Church founded Our Next Generation 30 years ago to support Milwaukee students academically and socially to give them the best possible chance to get a good education and to spend time in a safe environment after school and during the summer. Contact Betsy Head if interested
We have supported this non-profit with funds and tutors in the past
and Outreach is proud to participate in their Homework Club this fall.
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FALL
FEASTS!
Don’t forget to sign up!
Please contact Kathy or Denise
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Check out our thermometer in the Good Shepherd room and help put us over the top.
Click here for the current Feast Schedule with lots of fun activities scheduled into the new year.
NOVEMBER Featured Feast
Yoga & Meditation
Do something for yourself before the holidays! Come relax, meditate and connect your body, breath and mind. All to improve your overall health.
Host: Wayne Chmiel
Saturday, November 18, 2023 9:30 - 11:00am
Great Hall $15/person
DECEMBER Featured Feasts
Creating Christmas Memories
Design and paint 4 wooden Christmas ornaments. Get creative and in the Christmas spirit. Supplies included. Ages 6 and up to young at heart!
Host: Ira Leidel and Sonja Pavlik
Saturday December 2, 10am - noon
Great Hall $15/person max 15 people
Christmas Cookie & Candy Making
Let's get together to make 6 different kinds of Christmas cookies and candy. All baking ingredients and recipes will be provided. Each person should have approximately 4 - 4.5 dozen cookies/candy to take home, depending on how large we make them!
Host: Kay Antonelli
Wednesday December 13, 9am - 1pm
Great Hall $50/person max. 12 people
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CCLC Happy Hour Thursdays
Every Thursday at Lyn Slater's home -
6350 N. Lake Dr. WFB at 4:30 pm
Christ Church Ladies Connections is open to all women at Christ Church. Please join us on any Thursday that works for you. No need to RSVP, just come when you can. We'd love to see you!
N/A beverages available; wine $3.
If you would like to receive the group email which is sent weekly, please contact Kathy Stanford with any questions.
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NEXT Sunday November 19th at St. Paul's
High School Youth Group
Looking forward to our gathering with the other youth groups at 5pm
Fr. Oswald
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Come Pick up a Free Bible in the Good Shepherd Room!
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Bring your new Bible into the church office any Thursday from 10am - 4:30pm and Miss Julie T will inscribe your name with fancy calligraphy!
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K3-1st Grade: Explorers
will meet in one of the basement classrooms. Click here for this semester's overview for Explorers.
2nd-5th Grade: Seekers
will meet in the youth room, also in the basement. Click here for this semester's overview for Seekers.
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Handing Down
the Faith Sundays
Designed to encourage deeper understanding
of and more engagement with the liturgy for children. The clergy will offer brief explanations and invite children to participate and observe in specific ways. All children of any age and ability are welcome to participate as they feel comfortable.
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Be part of the solution - and save money! Worried about Climate Change?
Need to upgrade your home or car?
Whether you rent or own your home, you can benefit from these resources. Milwaukee’s Climate and Equity Plan
Click here for the full story
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We Need Your Help
The fluorescent bulbs are due to be replaced in all the basement
classrooms soon. Only bulbs need replacing.
We are looking for volunteers to help install the new LED lights.
Contact Ira Leidel or Jim Benton if you'd like to help!
LED bulbs will help the Church reduce it's carbon foot print too!
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Meetings: next meeting time and date to be determined. Team Wellness is seeking a new chair or two new co-chairs. If you’re interested in leading our efforts, please reach out to Kari Foote or Father Seth. | | |
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Check out Titles!
Visit our shelf in the J.T. room, Lending Library Just sign out a book on the clipboard and enjoy a good read!
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Monthly Book Suggestion
Wellness Reads... for kids: Weathering the Storm by slumberkins
and for adults:
The Rhythm of Life by Matthew Kelly
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Christ Church Women’s Book Study Group
The Knowledge of the Holy The attributes of God, Their Meaning in the Christian Life
by A.W. Tozer
WHO: All women of Christ Church are invited (anytime)
WHEN: Mondays from 9:15 – 10:15 AM (optional social hour beforehand at 9:00), and every Monday thereafter
WHERE: On zoom
Zoom link HERE Password: “study”
Meeting ID: 837 0526 9913
NEXT BOOK: Starting December 4th
Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom
by John O' Donohue
on Amazon here new or used
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Click to Contact The Rev. Mary S. Trainor
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Monday Evening Women's Book Group
Searching for Sunday by Rachel Held Evans.
For women who want to grow in faith and make deep, prayerful connections, a new group will meet in-person on the 1st and 3rd Monday evenings of the month @6:30pm, beginning in October.
Those who only want to attend once a month are most welcome. The first book for discussion will be Searching for Sunday by Rachel Held Evans. Emilie O'Connor is leading this book study and she is happy to provide more information.
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Men's
Book Group
led by
Greg Bell
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Making Sense of God
Finding God in the Modern World
by Timothy Keller
Available at Boswell Books,
PLEASE NOTE: This title also appears with another subhead and identical cover, so be sure to purchase the "finding God in the Modern World" This eliminates page number confusion during the discussions.
Contact Greg for information.
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See below for other ongoing opportunities for connection. (Evening Prayer, Wednesday Contemplative service...etc).
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Wednesday AM Contemplative
Eucharist
Service
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Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. - 9:40. A short retreat in the middle of the week. So many of us are searching for a bit of peace in our busy lives. Even a few moments of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others can profoundly recharge us for the journey.
2nd and 4th Wednesdays there will be an opportunity in the Chapel for the laying on of hands and healing prayer. contact Fr. Oswald with any questions
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Wednesday + Thursday Evening Prayer | |
Wednesday and Thursday - 5:30pm
To call into Evening Prayer, call 312 626 6799
Type in Meeting ID 847 2947 4435
Passcode: 019453
The service is a beautiful expression of peace and calm at the end of the day and lasts only 20 minutes
On ZOOM: Join the meeting here
Newcomers are especially welcome.
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Resuming in January 2024
Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m.
Join us through ZOOM for a short session of Lectio Divina followed by 15 minutes of Centering Prayer.
Lectio Divina: listening to a short passage, often from a psalm, and then, without comment, sharing the words or phrase that spoke to you.
Centering Prayer: a gentle, silent prayer in which individuals often use their own 'sacred word' to which they return when their thoughts wander - as thoughts always do. Beginners most welcome!
ZOOM Join Zoom Meeting here
Meeting ID: 827 8771 3769 Passcode: CENTER
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Family Fun Swim
Whitefish Bay High School Field House Pool Saturdays Now through December
Bring up to 15 family members. The swim time includes access to fun pool noodles, toys and the diving well for swimmers who pass the swim test. To register for a Saturday timeslot, please compete a Family Fun Swim Request form on our department website or
Call for registration; 414-963-3947
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Download the latest Martha & Mary newsletter here | |
eWeekly Broadcast submissions
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The church office is open Monday - Thursday from 10am - 3pm
Please call ahead, 414-946-3368, if you need to see someone in person. Staff may be contacted by email throughout the week.
Email or call Heidi for Parish Administration issues such as:
Membership, Directory updates, prayer requests, columbarium, building use, calendar scheduling, as well as for business and giving or pledging questions.
Heidi is in the office Monday - Wednesday. 10:00 - 3:00pm
eWeekly Broadcast Submissions: SUBMISSIONS DUE WEDNESDAY NOON. (earlier is appreciated!) Please email both Julie Thauer and Heidi Behlke. As always, submissions are due by noon on Wednesdays to make it into the Thursday e-Weekly Broadcast for that week.
Please Note:
Julie Thauer publishes the scheduled events and posts publicity for all group notices (i.e. Team Wellness, Green Team, Youth and Family, Outreach, Beloved Community, The FORUM). in the eWeekly Broadcast and prints the weekly Sunday bulletins and special services. If your group is looking for additional support in Social Media (Facebook and Instagram) contact Julie.
Julie is in the office Thursdays 10:00am - 4:00pm
Alex Konkel is available for for building and grounds issues.
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Continue to watch this weekly newsletter for the most recent updates and changes.
The clergy are available by email:
The Rector - Fr. Seth Dietrich at seth@christchurchwfb.org or
The Associate Rector - Fr. Oswald Bwechwa at oswald@christchurchwfb.org.
In the case of a pastoral emergency,
contact Fr. Seth at 414-630-6143 or Fr. Oswald at 414-750-7165.
Email Julie for communication issues such as the e-Weekly Broadcast newsletter, the Sunday Bulletin, media, website or anytime or by phone on Thursdays in the office.
Email Alex for building and grounds issues
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Get the latest on your 'feed' through our posted photos and videos
on Facebook and Instagram
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To join the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee e-news mailing list, click here.
To read the latest news from the Haiti Project, click here.
To download the Mary and Martha newsletter for Episcopal Women click here
Submissions for the weekly broadcast and the Sunday bulletins must be received
by the office no later that Wednesday at noon.
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