Lifting Up Our Hearts

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I was at Camp Hardtner this day...

Even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia,
alleluia, alleluia.

Joy in the Journey

2017 Joy in the Journey Retreat

"The Joy of Living: Action is the Key Word" is a three-day retreat presented by the Bishop's Commission on Addiction and Recovery. Retreat leader is John McAndrew, M.A., M.Div.

The joy of living is the theme of AA’s 12th Step, and action is its key word. We’ll consider how we practice these principles in all our affairs in the company of other men and women who have embraced this way of life. How do the 12 Steps work? How can I better practice my program in my relationships? How do I enlarge my spiritual life? This weekend is designed for people who are seeking deeper engagement with their spiritual lives, partners, spouses and friends: men, women, couples, singles--all seekers and 12 and 12 Fellowships welcome!

Plan to arrive at Camp Hardtner between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. for check-in and room assignments. The program begins at 7:00 p.m. No dinner will be served on Friday, but heavy hors d'oeuvres will be available.

REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 15

St. Thomas' Annual BBQ

Mark your calendars and let's join our friends at St. Thomas' for food, fun, and fellowship!

Labor Day

This Labor Day, weekend - we will do what we always do. Pray! Join us for Holy Eucharist at 8:30 a.m, 10:30 a.m. (La Santa Eucaristía –  5:00 p.m.) This year we will pray especially for Hurricane Harvey victims and rescuers. 

Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend, if you're traveling,  travel safely

A reminder that the church office will be closed on Monday. 

The Collect for Labor Day:
Almighty God, you have so linked our lives one with another that all we do affects, for good or ill, all other lives: So guide us in the work we do, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good; and, as we seek a proper return for our own labor, make us mindful of the rightful aspirations of other workers, and arouse our concern for those who are out of work; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.

Help ERD Help!

Episcopal Relief and Development's Harvey Fund - Click here.

From Bishop Jake...

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Dear Friends,

Our hearts have been rent by the images and stories of Hurricane Harvey's destruction in Texas. Many in our Diocese fear for family and friends in the storm's path. Responses from our congregations have been swift and generous, whether through Episcopal Relief and Development or other services.

Now Harvey has turned toward Louisiana. Schools and offices have been closed in several of our parishes. Floodwaters are encroaching on some homes and businesses in the south and west. We wait together not only to see what this storm brings but also to discern how to be most helpful to those in need.

Our Disaster Relief Coordinator Deacon Lois Maberry has been hard at work for days preparing and coordinating responses and providing resources. I have been communicating with clergy in charge of our congregations to stay informed about all of you. You are in my prayers for safety. Together we will get through this and bring aid to those in need.

We have received notes and phone calls of support from around the Church. The Presiding Bishop, my fellow bishops, and fellow Episcopalians around the country are praying for us and offering their support. I'm sure you share my gratitude.

May our holy and gracious God guide, guard, and comfort us through this storm. And may our common hope sustain us in the weeks ahead as we begin the work of recovery.

Blessings....

+Jake

More Camp Able 2017 at Camp Hardtner - A life changing experience!