September 12, 2024 - The summer I learned to love paleontology.

Christ Church program staff have been asked to periodically share their reflections. Below comes from Bailey Steger, Lay Minister for Families and High School Youth.

Dear Friends in Christ,

Of course, as a preschool teacher, I'd long ago learned all sorts of dinosaur names and fun facts. It's not easy to forget about a new dinosaur after little Ezra in the three-year-old room hollers, "PACHYCEPHALOSAURUS!" while headbutting his classmate.

But I don't just mean I'm able to name all the Jurassic Park figurines scattered across my living room right now -- I mean that now I know about all the pre-dino ancestors in the Paleozoic Era, and how we're closer in time to Tyrannosaurus rex than Tyrannosaurus rex is to the stegosaurus, and how sponges took over the world (again) during the world's second mass extinction at the end of the Permian Period. 

This newfound knowledge is once again courtesy of another little boy, my six-year-old son, who found the only book on life in the Permian and Carboniferous periods ever written for kids -- and then asked me to read that book every single night this summer.

Absolutely no one could have predicted that I would know any of this stuff, much less geek out about it, because there was a time in my life when my Christian faith was pitted in diametric opposition to geologic eras and modern dinosaur discoveries. Scientific discoveries of any sort felt like a threat to my faith: at any moment, I could look into the prehistorical abyss and discover that there couldn't be a God -- the Big Bang said so. 

But in one of the most interesting twists in my faith journey, God has used these formerly threatening concepts to strengthen my faith. I know other people have read the same facts and come to different conclusions, but I can't learn about life evolving from single-celled organisms to literally all of this and conclude anything other than that there must be some form of intelligent design guiding the process.

At this point in my faith journey, the philosophical underpinnings of my faith are random but incredible scientific facts that escape my understanding. Like, did you know that the possibility of life hinges not only on oxygen and water and all that, but also the size of a planet, and whether that planet is exactly the right distance away from its star, and whether that planet has a core that can generate a magnetic field that shields the planet from solar winds that will otherwise render that planet a wasteland?

I know we can't draw any absolute conclusions about God from science, but I agree with the psalmist when he wrote,

"The heavens declare the glory of God,

and the firmament shows his handiwork.

One day tells its tale to another,

and one night imparts knowledge to another.

Although they have no words or language,

and their voices are not heard,

Their sound has gone out into all lands,

and their message to the ends of the world" (Psalm 19:1-4).

Do your faith a favor, and go read a picture book on paleontology!

-Bailey Steger

17th Sunday after Pentecost

8am service - Holy Eucharist, Quiet service in the chapel



9:30 service - Holy Eucharist, Music with congregational singing. This service is also live-streamed here

NOTE: if you'd like to receive a Sunday morning email with just the links to the Sunday livestream service and scheduled FORUM presentations, send your request to Julie

See our Youth & Family special events coming up in the special Section below

Serving This Sunday: September 15, 2024

8:00 am Service

Greeter & Usher: Tom Watson

Acolyte & Reader: Randy Dean

9:30 am Service This service is also live-streamed here

Vestry Greeters:  Jackie Keene, Jeff Evans

Ushers: Don Allen, Steve Schley, Lynne Schley

Newcomers Hosts:  Steve Bruemmer, Katie Hermann

Lectors: Lila Hermann, Liesel Hermann

Prayer Reader: William Draper

Eucharistic Ministers: Wes Dubic, Susan Lovern, Cheryl Dunn, Maggie Dietrich, Luke Sinclair

Coffee Hospitality & Service:

8:00 Tom Tennessen 9:30 Luanne Schiff, Susan & Lee Dreyfus

Altar Guild: Team 3 - Mary Jones, Bridget Elliott, Denton Jones, Jackie Keene

Flower Guild: Team 3 - Sally Smaida*, Cindy Amini, MaryKay Anderson

Coffee Hospitality & Service: 8:00 Tom Tennessen

9:30 Luanne Schiff Susan and Lee Dreyfus

* Permission to podcast/stream the music in this service obtained from ONE LICENSE,

License # A-714398. All rights reserved.

Living Well, Aging Well: Purview of the Poets?

by Dr. Rebecca Elon M.D., MPH, CMD, internist geriatrician and associate professor

If you'd like to know more about Dr. Elon's role as caregiver during COVID, click here

The FORUM will be livestreamed here

THIS SUNDAY in the Great Hall following the 9:30 service:

The FORUM:

September 15, 2024

Dr. Rebecca Elon is a physician who has devoted her career to the care of frail elders and their caregivers and the improvement of systems of care. During COVID she became the primary caregiver for her husband who entered hospice care and her 98-year-old mother. Although she is “semi-retired,” Dr. Elon continues to serve on the voluntary faculty in the Division of Geriatric Medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and is a consultant to the U.S. Department of Justice on nursing home care issues.  

In her talk, “Living Well, Aging Well: Purview of the Poets?” Dr. Elon will introduce 3 themes related to growing older in America: 1. The ecology of aging, 2. The medicalization of aging and 3. Aging as a spiritual journey. She will discuss 2 distinct poetic visions of successful aging exemplified by the Dylan Thomas poem "Do not go gentle into that good night" and the William Butler Yeats poem "Sailing to Byzantium," along with the individual and societal implications of each. For further reading on the topic, she suggests Sonnet 73 by William Shakespeare, Gertrude in the Rooms by Kate Daniels, and the final section of Ulysses by Alfred Lord Tennyson.

Past FORUMs are archived here

Bwechwa Send-off!

We had a wonderful final Sunday with Fr. Oswald on September 8th, as we gave thanks for him and blessed him, Rosemarie and Mugi. We also presented the checks from 99 households for $17,200 as well as a check from the vestry for $10,000. There were other gifts from you all given directly to him that are not included in these figures.  

Rosemarie and Mugi will be with us for many more Sundays this year as Fr. Oswald goes to get settled in Tanzania, Rosemarie waits for that settling, and Mugi begins his freshman year at UW-M. We continue to hold them all in our prayers in the midst of the transition. 

New Associate Rector begins Monday, September 16

The Rev. Matt Phillips officially takes the role of Associate Rector on Tuesday, September 17. The night before his very first Sunday, September 22, Matt will be co-leading the overnight Confirmation Retreat, sleeping on the church campus with the teens. He's all in! 

We look forward to welcoming him with a robust coffee hour after the 9:30am service.  

Theology by the Pint -

Monday, September 19, 

5:15 p.m. in the Good Shepherd Room

Next Topic:

Baptism as a Prerequisite for Communion

The Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church dictate that “No unbaptized person shall be eligible to receive Holy Communion in this Church” (Canon I.17.7). While Baptism has long served as the Church’s prerequisite for Communion, multiple efforts have been made in the Episcopal Church over the last two decades to reconsider this practice and allow persons who have not been baptized to receive the Eucharistic sacrament: e.g., General Convention Resolution C028 in 2022. Join us on September 19 as we discuss the theologies behind this topic and share our own beliefs and experience regarding the Sacraments.

Questions to Consider: What does your Baptism and the Eucharist mean for you and your daily life? What is the purpose of these two Sacraments? Should Holy Baptism be a prerequisite for partaking in Holy Communion? Why might someone want to receive Communion before Baptism? Can receiving Communion lead someone to the desire to be baptized?

We will meet at 5:15 p.m. in the Good Shepherd room. Another group will be meeting in the Great Hall at that time, which might mean an increase in traffic in the building. To learn more about this event, please email The Reverend Matt Phillips



*Theology by the Pint is a casual gathering for conversation where participants are encouraged to listen to others’ perspectives without judgment and to seek better understanding. Regardless of differences, we strive to love our neighbors as ourselves and to respect the dignity of every human being. 

NEW: Bible Study

on the Old Testament book of Jonah

If someone says Old Testament-what words come to mind? Dark, angry, violence, impossible to understand? Or maybe-don't read much, not for me? Or I have tried, but...

Here is an opportunity to join with others trying to make sense of an Old Testament book, the book of Jonah. We will study the book for what God is telling us about himself and table whether it is a true story, an allegory, of ??? We will use a method called manuscript Bible study which is really a way of paying close attention to the text.

We will meet every other Thursday evening beginning on October 10th at church in the Good Shephard room from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.  

No prior knowledge of Bible study, the Old Testament, or Jonah are needed. No prep beforehand required. For more information and to sign up, contact Sue Toman at 616 745-766 or Richard TenHoor at 616 581-7536. Feel free to check it out and then decide whether to keep coming. 

Music and Meditation (formerly Scripture, Song and Silence)

Starting October 4th in the Sanctuary.

from noon to 12:30.

Silence will be accompanied by flute, piano and guitar offerings by Greg Bell, Tom Herbstreith and Mark Hilgendorf. Readings of scripture and poetry will be offered to enhance the silence. Please come and contact Mark Hilgendorf if you have any questions.

Join the Choir!...

As summer comes to a close and worship moves back into the church, the choir season will begin. If you've ever thought about singing, now's the time to get involved. The choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 until 8:30 and regularly sings at the 9:30 service. Prior musical experience and the ability to read music are great but not required. For more information contact our choir director Michael Batcho  

...OR, Join the One-time Family Choir!

Youth, young readers, and their parents/guardians are invited to join in a family choir led by our very own organist and choirmaster, Michael Batcho. The main rehearsal is Wednesday, October 2 from 6-6:45 PM in the choir room. We'll practice the hymns for that Sunday and go over a simple anthem. On Sunday, October 6, we'll briefly rehearse at 8:50 AM, then robe and lead the congregation for the 9:30 AM service.

No prior choir experience (or impressive singing ability) is needed to make a "joyful noise unto the Lord" with your fellow Christ Church families!

Hit reply and let Bailey Steger know who in your family is attending by September 29!

If you remember fondly your participation in school music programs why not make some new memories and friends by joining. Bell choir practice is Wednesday evenings 5:45-6:45 and Choir is from 7-8:30. You can join one or both. 

By the way, you do not need to be a trained musician to be in the choirs. 

Call either of us with questions! Respectfully submitted: 

Maureen McCabe 414-254-6483_____Anne Hynek 414-254-6181

Blessing of the Pets:

Thursday, October 3, 5:30pm

St. Francis Pet Blessing & Storytime: In honor of St. Francis of Assisi's feast day, bring your animal BFF to the garden for a Blessing of the Pets service!

Afterwards, kids can gather for a story about St. Francis and a meet & greet with a furry friend!" 

Food-for-the-Soul

Anne Davis says "Thank you for the great response and addition of new volunteers"

THIS Sunday September 15, 2024

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.

Check out the Youth Volunteer Jobs Fair!

Right after the service, youth from 6th-12th grade can learn about the different service opportunities available in our parish and sign up for the volunteer roles that speak to them. From acolytes to ushers, Sunday School workers to coffee hour servers -- there are so many places our church could benefit from the energy and talents of our youth!

Sunday School Notes:

- Sunday school continues on September 22 & 29 from 9:15-10:05 AM.

Middle school youth group kicks off the year on September 22 from 5-7 PM.

Find out more about all our upcoming events by subscribing to the monthly family newsletter [include that direct signup link] or checking out our events page."

Starts this Sunday! COAT DRIVE Let's fill the rack!

Coat Drive for All People’s Church – Help keep kids warm this winter by donating a new or gently used/clean winter jacket. We will be collecting warm jackets in the Good Shepherd Room starting September 15 – October 31. Sizes 3T to 18 in boys, girls and unisex. Contacts are Jean Maier and Lynne Schley.  

Scouting out the best tutors ever!

Our Next Generation is an inner city academic support organization started by Christ Church over 30 years ago. They use caring, patient tutors to help the students with their homework.

Our night is Wednesday from 5-6 pm.If interested please call or email : Betsy Head phone 414.967.7700 for more info or to sign up. ongkids.org

The Gathering: Serving Volunteers Needed

The Gathering is an organization that provides hot meals for those in need. Christ Church is responsible for serving a Saturday lunch every 6-8 weeks. Our next date is Saturday, September 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00. If you are available on the 14th or would like to be added to the group email list for future dates, please contact Beth Durant

Our next day to donate a dessert or serve a meal at Saint Vincent De Paul is Monday September 16 from 5-630pm. Please let Lynne Schley know if you are interested. Thank you!

Isaiah 55 Food Pantry

Please help fill the red wagon for All Peoples Church pantry with non-perishable food items and personal care hygiene products. Sendiks red bags are also appreciated.  

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!

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.

The Monday MORNING Women’s Book Study Group

Men's Book Group led by Greg Bell

In-Person Centering Prayer group

This group will meet on Fridays throughout the year and will be led by Janis Blean-Kachigan and Helen Benton. Meetings will begin at 11:15 am and will end at 11:45 am.

Leaflets will be available about Centering Prayer, based on the teaching of Abbot Thomas Keating as found in his book, Open Minds, Open Hearts.

We especially welcome people who have had no experience of Centering Prayer and would like to learn this ancient way of praying.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact

Janis Blean-Kachigan or Helen Benton.

RUN Club

Please join Kari Foote and Maggie Dietrich at 7:30 am on Tuesday mornings for a run! Meet at red door (office entrance)

WALK Club

Help! Seeking a new leader for a weekly walking club! Reach out to Betsy Head or Kari Foote for more information! 

News from the Diocese and Around the Community

If you have news you'd like shared in our e-Weekly Newsletter please contact Julie

Providing support,

Shelter and Crisis Response for victims of domestic violence

To find out more about our work visit: Family Peace Center

Sponsorships Available Download the Brochure

You're Invited to Miss Dolly's 3rd Annual Taste of Africa!

Thursday, November 14, 2024 3:30 - 9:00PM

River Club of Mequon

12400 N Ville Du Parc Drive

Mequon, WI 53092

Reception Reception | 5:30 - 6:30pm

African appetizers and music

Dinner | 6:30 - 9:00pm

Travel African cuisine representing

countries of Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria,

Ghana, Mali, Tanzania, and South Africa.

Entertainment

Stories from Survivors

Live Auction

Raffle

RSVP by 10-25-24

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