Friday, August 28, 2020

PARISH NOTES 
Sunday 30 August 2020

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ (1463) by Piero della Francesca (c. 1415-1492). Mural in fresco and tempera. Museo Comunale, Sansepolcro, Italy.

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS
 

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
Jeremiah 15:15-21
Psalm 26:1-8
Romans 12:9-21
Matthew 16:21-28

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Gabriel Dupont (1878 – 1914)—Meditation

William Byrd (1543 – 1623)—Mass for Four Voices

William Byrd—Ave verum Corpus

Eugène Gigout (1844 – 1925)—Toccata


A WORD OF WELCOME 

Welcome to Saint Stephen’s – S. Stephen’s Church is in the midst of Brown University and serves the communities of the East Side of Providence, North Providence, East Providence, and beyond. It is a parish of the Diocese of Rhode Island in the Episcopal Church in the worldwide Anglican Communion. The Anglo-Catholic tradition informs and shapes our life together. We are a diverse community uniting all sorts and conditions in the worship of Our Lord Jesus Christ and aim to offer up the best we have in liturgy, music, preaching, teaching, fellowship, and service.


A WORD FROM FATHER BENJAMIN

Dear brothers and sisters,

This Sunday we encounter one of my favorite collects in the Prayer Book, which entreats God to “graft in our hearts the love of thy Name; increase in us true religion; nourish us with all goodness; and bring forth in us the fruit of good works.” As if to anticipate the questions, “Well, what exactly is true religion? And what are examples of the fruits of good works?” the portion from Paul’s letter to the Romans that we will hear on Sunday provides us with a long list of examples. “Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with brotherly affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Never flag in zeal, be aglow with the Spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality.” And that’s only the beginning of it!

Our Gospel reading picks up where it left off last week, and we will encounter an impulsive Peter being admonished by Jesus with the infamous rebuke, “Get behind me, Satan!” Jesus then proceeds to remind them that the Christian life will be one of self-denial and forgoing the usual definitions of worldly success and power. The Gospel shows us that real power and true glory look very different from what we are often told they look like, and that we are to lead lives that more closely resemble in word and deed the actions and postures listed by St. Paul above.

I pray that we may always have the grace to take a step back and examine our lives, our actions, and our priorities, hold them up to the light of the Gospel, and consider whether our thoughts and deeds are in all honesty as closely aligned with the values of the Kingdom of God as they could be. Jesus’s words about self-denial and taking up the cross to follow him don’t exactly sound like an invitation to a happy or care-free life – but they do promise us that we will discover something worth more than life itself. And that, my friends, is a promise worthy of all our faithfulness.

Yours, in Christ’s love,








Fr. Benjamin

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome Back! – We’re delighted to be able to see you again this coming Sunday! While we continue to gather again, this privilege brings with it some protocols to keep us all safe. A summary of the safety protocols may be found here.

An Update on In-person Worship Matters – As a follow up to last week’s update regarding the wearing of masks in public worship, I would like to remind the parish that the requirement for the Celebrant and all lectors, etc. to wear masks during the course of the liturgy is being made at the strongest possible urging of Bishop Knisely.

I am aware that this requirement has made it difficult to understand portions of the liturgy as easily, especially anything said without the aid of a microphone. We must simply be patient for the next few months and remain hopeful that things will improve sooner than later.

However, please know that as we install Wi-Fi in the church nave, and work to improve our live-streaming capabilities, one consequence of these changes will be bringing more of the liturgy back to its normal location, especially as regards the readings and the sermon. Such improvements will greatly improve the experience of those gathered for in-person worship, and the added camera angles will likewise enhance the experience of those worshiping online. 
- Fr. Benjamin

Virtual Offices and Masses – We offer Virtual Offices and Masses for those who wish to continue to participate safely from home. To access and view the LIVE (and archived) services, please visit the parish Facebook page here (you do not need a FB account to tune in). To access accompanying Daily Office and Low Mass readings and resources (as well as archived services), please visit the parish website sermon page here.

Virtual Coffee Hour – Please join us for our Virtual Sunday Coffee Hour this Sunday, 30 August, at 11:30 am. To attend, please click here. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact Junior Warden Alison Huff via call or text at 401-465-8029 or email (alisonhuff12@gmail.com), or Jacob Ihnen via call or text at 712-348-5848 or email (jacob_ihnen@alumni.brown.edu). Thank you!

Society of Mary – The Society of Mary: Our Lady of Providence Ward will meet this coming Saturday, 5 September, for Holy Rosary following the 10 am Low Mass. All are welcome and invited to participate!

Concerning Pledges and the Sunday Offering – Thank you to all who have been so faithful in maintaining your financial support of S. Stephen’s during this pandemic. As some are able to return to in-person worship while others understandably need to stay home, there are three ways to continue your giving to S. Stephen’s:

  • There is an offering plate in the back of the church where you may leave your offering.
  • Offerings can be sent to the church office through the mail.
  • You can give online by clicking here. Please contact us if you need assistance.
Again, thank you to all who have been so supportive.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Beverly, Patti, Ethel, Carl, Kade, Sherri, Charles, Sandra, Lola, Ruby, Norman, Diana, Sarah, Shannah, Lynne, Harrington, Joan, Robyn, Phebe, Hunter, Jay, Ann, Beth, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Tom, Jill, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Susan, Beverly, Rhoda, Crystal, and Christopher.

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Eleanor Fayerweather (30 August 1992), Philip Joseph Miller (30 August 2015), Robert Thomas McElligott (2 September 1989), and Malcolm Donald Hyman (4 September 2009). Recently Departed: Clare Powers MacLean.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, we are asked to pray for the united Church of South India: The Most Rev’d Dharmaraj Rasalam, Moderator of CSI & Bishop of South Kerala; in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, for our Bishop and members of the Diocesan Staff.

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Saturday 5 September
Society of Mary  10:45 am (Lady Chapel)

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Saturday 5 September
Epiphany Soup Kitchen (Meal Pickup Only)  2:30-4:30 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

* REGATHERING HAS RESUMED FOR IN-PERSON SERVICES ON SUNDAYS (80 PEOPLE TOTAL) AND WEEKDAYS (14 PEOPLE TOTAL)
* ALL ATTENDEES MUST ADHERE TO WRITTEN AND VERBAL PROTOCOLS TO ATTEND


Sunday 30 August
THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 17, Year Two

Monday 31 August
FERIA (G)
Aidan, Bishop of Lindisfarne, Missionary, 651
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Tuesday 1 September
FERIA (G)
Giles of Provence, Hermit, c. 710
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Wednesday 2 September
FERIA (G)
The Martyrs of Papua New Guinea, 1942
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Thursday 3 September
FERIA (G)
Phoebe, Companion of Saint Paul, Deaconess, 1st century
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Friday 4 September
FERIA (G)
Birinus, Bishop of Dorchester, Apostle of Wessex, 650
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Saturday 5 September
FERIA (G)
Boris & Gleb (Romanus & David), Princes, Martyrs, 1015
Morning Prayer  9:30 am
Low Mass  10 am
Holy Rosary  10:45 am

Sunday 6 September
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (6 September)

Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
Ezekiel 33:7-11
Psalm 119:33-40
Romans 13:8-14
Matthew 18:15-20

Friday, August 21, 2020

PARISH NOTES 
Sunday 23 August 2020

Christ Giving the Keys to St. Peter (1598) by Bernardo Castello (1557-1629).
Illumination on vellum. Louvre Museum, Paris, France.

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS
 

Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
Isaiah 51:1-6
Psalm 138
Romans 12:1-8
Matthew 16:13-20

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

J. S. Bach (1685 – 1750)—Praeludium in C-dur, BWV 547

Plainchant—Missa VIII (De Angelis)

J. S. Bach—Fuga in C-dur, BWV 547


A WORD OF WELCOME 

Welcome to Saint Stephen’s – S. Stephen’s Church is in the midst of Brown University and serves the communities of the East Side of Providence, North Providence, East Providence, and beyond. It is a parish of the Diocese of Rhode Island in the Episcopal Church in the worldwide Anglican Communion. The Anglo-Catholic tradition informs and shapes our life together. We are a diverse community uniting all sorts and conditions in the worship of Our Lord Jesus Christ and aim to offer up the best we have in liturgy, music, preaching, teaching, fellowship, and service.


A WORD FROM FATHER BENJAMIN

“But who do you say that I am?”

I simply love every time this Gospel reading comes up in the lectionary. It cuts right to the essential question at the heart of the Christian faith: Who is Jesus? How we answer that question reveals a lot about us – and it is the question that has defined and shaped the Church since its first days. It is the question that lies behind the emergence of the Church from its Jewish roots, to the Councils of Nicaea, Constantinople, and Ephesus, and even into the sixth century: who is Jesus? And what are the implications of the answer (or answers) to that question?

How we answer that question has everything to do with how we worship as the Church, particularly at S. Stephen’s. Jesus is God made Man – God Incarnate – the Second Person of the Trinity – who has left us a wondrous sacrament in which we continue to experience indwelling with him. Because of his Real Presence in the Sacrament, we enter worship with an acute awareness that we are entering into the presence of the Holy. Our worship, even though earthly, becomes a foretaste or anticipation of the heavenly.

And so we come to Mass and “present [ourselves] a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is [our] spiritual worship,” as St. Paul writes in his letter to the Romans. St. Paul also has a good deal to say about the nature of the Church as the Body of Christ, and how that shapes our interactions and responsibilities to each other as fellow members of the Body. It is the perfect passage to be presented with as we begin to think about our time together: what gifts do we each bring to the table? How might we all use our gifts to collectively build up the Body of Christ that is S. Stephen’s Church in Providence? How will we continue to build on the successes of the past, while entering into a new season of life with a new Rector?

However we do it, it will be done with our focus on the one who calls us to follow him – the one who asks us, “Who do you say that I am?” Like Simon Peter, may we always have the boldness to proclaim him as “the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” He is the Head of the Body, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, the Living Water, the Good Shepherd, and our true and living Bread, who sustains us in all our life’s journeys.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome Back! – We’re delighted to be able to see you again this coming Sunday! While we continue to gather again, this privilege brings with it some protocols to keep us all safe. A summary of the safety protocols may be found here.

Thank you from Fr. Benjamin – Dear S. Stephen’s family,

I want to echo my thanks that I gave on Sunday morning at Mass, and thank you profoundly for the outpouring of generosity upon my arrival in Providence two weeks ago. The stocked fridge, pantry, and additional gifts, including gift cards to Petco and Adler’s Hardware were very thoughtful and have already come in handy! I am very touched, and cannot thank you enough. You cannot know what a gift a stocked refrigerator is in the midst of a move on a hot summer day, particularly when dealing with two cats. To the Wardens, Vestry Members, Society of Mary, Guild of All Souls, and every parishioner, “THANK YOU.”

An Update on Safety Protocols – Following a Town Hall style meeting with Bishop Knisely this past Thursday night, I have some information to share regarding the wearing of masks during the liturgy. Whereas before, when in-person worship was first resumed, the Celebrant and lectors were permitted to officiate without wearing masks, Bishop Knisely revised those guidelines to require that the Celebrant and others wear a mask at all times. This comes out of a meeting with Dr. Anthony Fauci with the House of Bishops in which he communicated the most up-to-date scientific findings which show that the COVID-19 virus is spread primarily through droplets in the air, and that masks are extremely effective in containing the transmission of COVID-19.

I am aware that the wearing of a mask rendered parts of the sermon hard to understand for those in attendance on my first Sunday. Please know we are working to address this, and we will make sure the microphone is placed in a better position this Sunday as a first step in that direction. We are also working on measures to move more of our worship back into the Nave, utilizing once again the pulpit and lectern. Whatever frustration this might bring, the good news is that all of these measures are being put in place so that we can return to a place of “normalcy” as soon as possible. What a gift! What a wonderful thought! Worshiping in a way that resembles normalcy by October or November – or once again going to a football game in the fall.

While it is an inconvenience, it is a small price to pay with the larger goal in mind, and so I pray that we may continue to keep our eyes on the prize. Together, we can do this!

Blessings,
Fr. Benjamin

Virtual Offices and Masses – We offer Virtual Offices and Masses for those who wish to continue to participate safely from home. To access and view the LIVE (and archived) services, please visit the parish Facebook page here (you do not need a FB account to tune in). To access accompanying Daily Office and Low Mass readings and resources (as well as archived services), please visit the parish website sermon page here.

Virtual Coffee Hour – Please join us for our Virtual Sunday Coffee Hour this Sunday, 23 August, at 11:30 am. To attend, please click here. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact Junior Warden Alison Huff via call or text at 401-465-8029 or email (alisonhuff12@gmail.com), or Jacob Ihnen via call or text at 712-348-5848 or email (jacob_ihnen@alumni.brown.edu). Thank you!

Saint Bartholomew the Apostle (24 August) – a major feast day of the church year, will be celebrated this coming Monday with Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm and Low Mass at 6 pm.

Meet the Rector – Volunteers are still needed to host a series of small group gatherings of 5 or so either in person or by Zoom. If you are interested in hosting, please contact Joy D'Ambra (JoyLDAmbra@gmail.com) or Alison Huff (alisonhuff12@gmail.com).

Concerning Pledges and the Sunday Offering – Thank you to all who have been so faithful in maintaining your financial support of S. Stephen’s during this pandemic. As some are able to return to in-person worship while others understandably need to stay home, there are three ways to continue your giving to S. Stephen’s:
  • There is an offering plate in the back of the church where you may leave your offering.
  • Offerings can be sent to the church office through the mail.
  • You can give online by clicking here. Please contact us if you need assistance.
Again, thank you to all who have been so supportive.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Beverly, Patti, Ethel, Carl, Kade, Sherri, Charles, Sandra, Lola, Ruby, Norman, Diana, Sarah, Shannah, Lynne, Harrington, Joan, Robyn, Phebe, Hunter, Jay, Ann, Beth, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Tom, Jill, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Susan, Beverly, Rhoda, Crystal, and Christopher.

40th Wedding Anniversary: Fr. Bill & Ethel Locke (Sunday 8/23/80).

Birthdays this week: Patti Barnes (Wednesday 8/26), Florence Ferreira (Wednesday 8/26), Julie Pearson (Thursday 8/27), and Simon Newby (Saturday 8/29).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Robert E. Latham (23 August 1999), Phoebe Robertson (23 August 2016), Thomas Edward Goode (24 August 1991), Florence Thorpe (24 August 1994), Sheila Kathleen Beresford (26 August 1986), and Jonathan T. Glass, Priest (28 August 2004). Recently Departed: Lorraine Slaney and Clare Powers MacLean.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, we are asked to pray for the Church of the Province of South East Asia: The Most Rev’d Melter Tais, Archbishop of South East Asia & Bishop of Sabah; in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, for students and leaders of our campus ministries at Brown/RISD, the University of Rhode Island, and Rhode Island College.

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Saturday 29 August
Epiphany Soup Kitchen (Meal Pickup Only)  2:30-4:30 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

* REGATHERING HAS RESUMED FOR IN-PERSON SERVICES ON SUNDAYS (80 PEOPLE TOTAL) AND WEEKDAYS (14 PEOPLE TOTAL)
* ALL ATTENDEES MUST ADHERE TO WRITTEN AND VERBAL PROTOCOLS TO ATTEND


Sunday 23 August
TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 16, Year Two

Monday 24 August
SAINT BARTHOLOMEW THE APOSTLE (R)
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Tuesday 25 August
FERIA (G)
Louis, King of France, 1270
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Wednesday 26 August
FERIA (G)
Dominic Barberi, Priest, Religious, Missionary, 1849
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Thursday 27 August
FERIA (G)
Monica, Mother of Augustine of Hippo, 387
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Friday 28 August
Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, Teacher, 430 (W)
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Saturday 29 August
FERIA (G)
Beheading of John the Baptist
Morning Prayer  9:30 am
Low Mass  10 am

Sunday 30 August
THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (30 August)

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
Jeremiah 15:15-21
Psalm 26:1-8
Romans 12:9-21
Matthew 16:21-28

Saturday, August 15, 2020

PARISH NOTES 
Sunday 16 August 2020

Assumption of the Virgin (c. 1596-1597) by Guido Reni (1575-1642).
Oil on copper. Städel Museum, Frankfurt, Germany.

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS
 

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Isaiah 61:10-11
Psalm 34:1-9
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 1:46-55

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Jean-Adam Guilain (1680 – 1739)—Suite du Premier Ton pour le Magnificat: Plein Jeu, Duo, et Récit

Hans Leo Hassler (1564 – 1612)—Missa “Dixit Maria”

Igor Stravinsky (1882 – 1971)—Bogoroditse Djevo

Jean-Adam Guilain—Suite du Premier Ton pour le Magnificat: Dialogue sur les Grands Jeux

A WORD OF WELCOME 

Welcome to Saint Stephen’s – S. Stephen’s Church is in the midst of Brown University and serves the communities of the East Side of Providence, North Providence, East Providence, and beyond. It is a parish of the Diocese of Rhode Island in the Episcopal Church in the worldwide Anglican Communion. The Anglo-Catholic tradition informs and shapes our life together. We are a diverse community uniting all sorts and conditions in the worship of Our Lord Jesus Christ and aim to offer up the best we have in liturgy, music, preaching, teaching, fellowship, and service.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome Back! – We’re delighted to be able to see you again this Sunday! While we continue to gather again, this privilege brings with it some protocols to keep us all safe. A summary of the safety protocols may be found here.

Welcome Our New Rector!

  • First Mass this Sunday – Please give Fr. Benjamin Pearce Straley a warm welcome this Sunday as he celebrates his first Mass here as Rector of S. Stephen’s, during which we will keep the Major Feast of the Assumption (transferred). Please join us in person or on Facebook!
  • Meet the Rector – Volunteers are needed to host a series of small group gatherings of 5 or so either in person or by Zoom. If you are interested in hosting, please contact Joy or Alison.
Flowers – at the High Altar this Sunday are given for Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin Mary, on the Feast of her Assumption into Heaven and in thanksgiving for the arrival of the Rev’d Benjamin Pearce Straley, 19th Rector of S. Stephen’s Church.

Virtual Offices and Masses – We offer Virtual Offices and Masses for those who wish to continue to participate safely from home. To access and view the LIVE (and archived) services, please visit the parish Facebook page here (you do not need a FB account to tune in). To access accompanying Daily Office and Low Mass readings and resources (as well as archived services), please visit the parish website sermon page here.

Virtual Coffee Hour – Please join us for our Virtual Sunday Coffee Hour tomorrow, 16 August, at 11:30 am. To attend, please click here (please note this is a different link than weeks past). If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact Senior Warden Tom Bledsoe via call or text at 401-480-8701 or email (thomas_bledsoe@brown.edu), or Jacob Ihnen via call or text at 712-348-5848 or email (jacob_ihnen@alumni.brown.edu). Thank you!

Requiescat in pace – to our bookkeeper, Lorraine Slaney, who passed away unexpectedly on 6 August. Her obituary may be found here. May she rest in peace and rise in glory.

Monthly Commemoration of the Departed – whose year’s mind falls during August will be offered virtually and in person this coming Saturday, 22 August, at 10 am (preceded by Morning Prayer at 9:30 am). If you have any names to add to those to be remembered, please let Nancy Gingrich know. This Mass is sponsored by the Guild of All Souls, St. Stephen Protomartyr Branch: all are welcome and invited to attend!

Concerning Pledges and the Sunday Offering – Thank you to all who have been so faithful in maintaining your financial support of S. Stephen’s during this pandemic. As some are able to return to in-person worship while others understandably need to stay home, there are three ways to continue your giving to S. Stephen’s:
  • There is an offering plate in the back of the church where you may leave your offering.
  • Offerings can be sent to the church office through the mail.
  • You can give online by clicking here. Please contact us if you need assistance.
Again, thank you to all who have been so supportive.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Beverly, Patti, Ethel, Carl, Kade, Sherri, Charles, Sandra, Lola, Ruby, Norman, Diana, Sarah, Shannah, Lynne, Harrington, Joan, Robyn, Phebe, Hunter, Jay, Ann, Beth, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Tom, Jill, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Susan, Beverly, Rhoda, Crystal, and Christopher.

Birthdays this week: Bruce Lennihan (Monday 8/17), Crystal Malone-Drew (Friday 8/21), and Joel McCoy (Friday 8/21).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Sybil Moss (16 August 2006), Nina Hinson Rasmussen (16 August 2018), Archie A. Pearson (18 August 2011), Frank B. Mauk (20 August 1987), and Edith Woolsey Nutt (22 August 2005). Recently Departed: Lorraine Slaney.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, we are asked to pray for the Scottish Episcopal Church: The Most Rev’d Mark Strange, Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church & Bishop of Moray, Ross, & Caithness; in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, for the retired clergy of the Diocese.

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Saturday 22 August
Guild of All Souls  10 am (Lady Chapel)

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Saturday 22 August
Epiphany Soup Kitchen (Meal Pickup Only)  2:30-4:30 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

* REGATHERING HAS RESUMED FOR IN-PERSON SERVICES ON SUNDAYS (80 PEOPLE TOTAL) AND WEEKDAYS (14 PEOPLE TOTAL)
* ALL ATTENDEES MUST ADHERE TO WRITTEN AND VERBAL PROTOCOLS TO ATTEND


Sunday 16 August
ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (transferred) (Blue)
Sung Mass  10 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 15, Year Two
Monday 17 August
FERIA (G)
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Tuesday 18 August
FERIA (G)
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Wednesday 19 August
FERIA (G)
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Thursday 20 August
Bernard of Clairvaux, Abbot, Teacher, 1153 (W)
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Friday 21 August
FERIA (G)
Jane Frances de Chantal, Founder of the Order of the Visitation, 1641
Abraham of Smolensk, Abbot, 1221

Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Saturday 22 August
FERIA
Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Morning Prayer  9:30 am
Low Requiem Mass  10 am (Black)

Sunday 23 August
TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (23 August)

Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
Isaiah 51:1-6
Psalm 138
Romans 12:1-8
Matthew 16:13-20

Saturday, August 8, 2020

PARISH NOTES 
Sunday 9 August 2020

Jesus walking on the Sea of Galilee (1590s) by Paul Brill (c. 1553/1554-1626) and Frederik van Valckenborch (1566-1623). Oil on canvas. Museum of John Paul II Collection, Warsaw, Poland.

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS
 

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
1 Kings 19:9-18
Psalm 85:8-13
Romans 10:5-15
Matthew 14:22-33

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Erik Satie (1866 – 1925)—Messe des Pauvres: Prière pour le salut de mon âme

Plainchant—Missa XI (Orbis factor)

Paul Dukas (1865 – 1935)—Fanfare


A WORD OF WELCOME 

Welcome to Saint Stephen’s – S. Stephen’s Church is in the midst of Brown University and serves the communities of the East Side of Providence, North Providence, East Providence, and beyond. It is a parish of the Diocese of Rhode Island in the Episcopal Church in the worldwide Anglican Communion. The Anglo-Catholic tradition informs and shapes our life together. We are a diverse community uniting all sorts and conditions in the worship of Our Lord Jesus Christ and aim to offer up the best we have in liturgy, music, preaching, teaching, fellowship, and service.


A WORD FROM FATHER LOCKE

The disciples in this Sunday’s Gospel reading find themselves struggling against the wind. It’s not an unexpected storm, nor are they doing something wrong. In fact, Jesus has told them to be in the boat on the lake. Sometimes life brings a headwind and we struggle. There is double good news in today’s story. On the one hand, Jesus is that loving, good shepherd who comes to his disciples in their time of need, willing to calm the wind and the waves. On the other hand, Jesus comes with the power and the authority to do just that. Who is able to do such a thing? None other than the Lord of creation. And so, “those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’”

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome Back! – We’re delighted to be able to see you again this Sunday! While we continue to gather again, this privilege brings with it some protocols to keep us all safe. A summary of the safety protocols may be found here.

Virtual Offices and Masses – We will continue to offer Virtual Offices and Masses for those who wish to continue to participate safely from home. To access and view the LIVE (and archived) services, please visit the parish Facebook page here (you do not need a FB account to tune in). To access accompanying Daily Office and Low Mass readings and resources (as well as archived services), please visit the parish website sermon page here.

Virtual Coffee Hour – Please join us for our Virtual Sunday Coffee Hour tomorrow, 9 August, at 11:30 am. To attend, please click here. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact Junior Warden Alison Huff via call or text at 401-465-8029 or email (alisonhuff12@gmail.com), or Jacob Ihnen via call or text at 712-348-5848 or email (jacob_ihnen@alumni.brown.edu). Thank you!

Welcome Father Straley!
  • First Mass Sunday 16 August – Fr. Straley will celebrate his first mass at S. Stephen's on Sunday the 16th, at which time we will formally celebrate the Feast of the Assumption (transferred). Please join us in person or on Facebook!
  • Meet the Rector – Volunteers are needed to host a series of small group gatherings of 5 or so either in person or by Zoom. If you are interested in hosting, please contact Joy or Alison.

Flowers – at the High Altar this Sunday are given by the Altar Guild to the glory of God and in loving memory of C. Jane Latham, loyal parishioner and tireless worker of the Altar Guild.

Vestry Meeting – The Vestry will virtually conduct its monthly meeting this coming Tuesday, 11 August, at 7 pm.

Concerning Pledges and the Sunday Offering – Thank you to all who have been so faithful in maintaining your financial support of S. Stephen’s during this pandemic. As some are able to return to in-person worship while others understandably need to stay home, there are three ways to continue your giving to S. Stephen’s:
  • There is an offering plate in the back of the church where you may leave your offering.
  • Offerings can be sent to the church office through the mail.
  • You can give online by clicking here. Please contact us if you need assistance.
Again, thank you to all who have been so supportive.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Beverly, Patti, Ethel, Carl, Kade, Sherri, Charles, Sandra, Lola, Ruby, Norman, Diana, Sarah, Shannah, Lynne, Harrington, Joan, Robyn, Phebe, Hunter, Jay, Ann, Beth, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Tom, Jill, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Susan, Beverly, Rhoda, Crystal, and Christopher.

Birthdays this week: Cathy Bledsoe (Wednesday 8/12) and Pat Fuller (Saturday 8/15).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Frances Cecilia Lawton (9 August 1983), J. Thomas Kershaw (14 August 2001), C. Jane Latham (14 August 2016), Myra F. Craven (15 August 1985), Dolly Elliott (15 August 2018), Naomi Lane Babson Grieder (15 August 1985), and Domenic Fasano (15 August 1984).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, we are asked to pray for the Province de L'Eglise Anglicane au Rwanda: The Most Rev’d Laurent Mbanda, Archbishop of L'Eglise Episcopal au Rwanda & Bishop of Shyira; in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, for the people and clergy of St. Mary's, Portsmouth; St. Mary's, East Providence; and for the leadership, staff, and students of St. Mary's Home for Children.

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Tuesday 11 August
Vestry Meeting  7 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S


Saturday 15 August
Epiphany Soup Kitchen (Meal Pickup Only)  2:30-4:30 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE


* REGATHERING HAS RESUMED FOR IN-PERSON SERVICES ON SUNDAYS (80 PEOPLE TOTAL) AND WEEKDAYS (14 PEOPLE TOTAL)
* ALL ATTENDEES MUST ADHERE TO WRITTEN AND VERBAL PROTOCOLS TO ATTEND


Sunday 9 August
TENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 14, Year Two

Monday 10 August
Lawrence, Deacon at Rome, Martyr, 258 (R)
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Tuesday 11 August
Claire of Assisi, Founder of the Minoresses (Poor Clares), 1253 (W)
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Wednesday 12 August
FERIA (G)
Hippolytus, Priest, Teacher, Martyr at Rome, 235
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Thursday 13 August
FERIA (G)
Jeremy Taylor, Bishop of Down and Connor, Teacher, 1667
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Friday 14 August
FERIA (G)
Maximilian Kolbe, Friar, Martyr, 1941
Jonathan Myrick Daniels, Seminarian, Civil Rights Worker, Martyr, 1965

Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Saturday 15 August
Votive Mass of Mary (Blue)
Morning Prayer  9:30 am
Low Mass  10 am

Sunday 16 August
ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (transferred) (Blue)
Sung Mass 10 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (16 August)

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Isaiah 61:10-11
Psalm 34:1-9
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 1:46-55

Saturday, August 1, 2020

PARISH NOTES 
Sunday 2 August 2020

Miracle of the Bread and Fish (between 1620 and 1623)
by Giovanni Lanfranco (1582-1647). Oil on canvas.
National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS
 

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
Isaiah 55:1-5
Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21
Romans 9:1-5
Matthew 14:13-21

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Dietrich Buxtehude (1637 – 1707)—Choral “Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott,” BuxWV184

Plainchant—Missa XI (Orbis factor)

Dietrich Buxtehude—Präludium, Fuga und Ciacona, BuxWV137


A WORD OF WELCOME 

Welcome to Saint Stephen’s – S. Stephen’s Church is in the midst of Brown University and serves the communities of the East Side of Providence, North Providence, East Providence, and beyond. It is a parish of the Diocese of Rhode Island in the Episcopal Church in the worldwide Anglican Communion. The Anglo-Catholic tradition informs and shapes our life together. We are a diverse community uniting all sorts and conditions in the worship of Our Lord Jesus Christ and aim to offer up the best we have in liturgy, music, preaching, teaching, fellowship, and service.


A WORD FROM FATHER LOCKE

“We don’t have enough.” The disciples’ immediate response to Jesus’ invitation to care for the crowd that has gathered around him is a very human expression of scarcity thinking. How could a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish feed so many people? We can be acutely aware of our limitations, of what we don’t have. It then becomes tempting to hold tight, to protect the little we think we have – after all, we don’t have enough. Can we be as aware of the wonderful gifts that we in fact have been given? Can we be aware that Jesus stands ready to take our offering, as meager as it may seem, and multiply it in amazing ways?

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome Back! – We’re delighted to be able to see you again this Sunday! While we continue to gather again, this privilege brings with it some protocols to keep us all safe. A summary of the safety protocols may be found here.

Virtual Offices and Masses – We will continue to offer Virtual Offices and Masses for those who wish to continue to participate safely from home. To access and view the LIVE (and archived) services, please visit the parish Facebook page here (you do not need a FB account to tune in). To access accompanying Daily Office and Low Mass readings and resources (as well as archived services), please visit the parish website sermon page here.

Virtual Coffee Hour – Please join us for our Virtual Sunday Coffee Hour tomorrow, 2 August, at 11:30 am. To attend, please click here. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact Junior Warden Alison Huff via call or text at 401-465-8029 or email (alisonhuff12@gmail.com), or Jacob Ihnen via call or text at 712-348-5848 or email (jacob_ihnen@alumni.brown.edu). Thank you!

Welcome Father Straley!
  • First Mass Sunday 16 August – Fr. Straley will celebrate his first mass at S. Stephen's on Sunday the 16th, at which time we will formally celebrate the Feast of the Assumption (transferred). Please join us in person or on Facebook!
  • Welcome to Providence – Our housewarming efforts for our new rector are underway! If you would like to participate by donating or supplying some items, please contact Joy D'Ambra (JoyLDAmbra@gmail.com or 617-470-3722) or Alison Huff (alisonhuff12@gmail.com or 401-465-8029).
  • Meet the Rector – Volunteers are needed to host a series of small group gatherings of 5 or so either in person or by Zoom. If you are interested in hosting, please contact Joy or Alison.

Finding of the Relics of Saint Stephen (3 August) – a patronal feast day, will be celebrated this coming Monday with Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm and Low Mass at 6 pm.

Transfiguration of Our Lord (6 August) – a principal feast day of the church year, will be celebrated this coming Thursday with Noonday Prayer at 12 pm and Low Mass at 12:10 pm.

Concerning Pledges and the Sunday Offering – Thank you to all who have been so faithful in maintaining your financial support of S. Stephen’s during this pandemic. As some are able to return to in-person worship while others understandably need to stay home, there are three ways to continue your giving to S. Stephen’s:
  • There is an offering plate in the back of the church where you may leave your offering.
  • Offerings can be sent to the church office through the mail.
  • You can give online by clicking here. Please contact us if you need assistance.
Again, thank you to all who have been so supportive.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Beverly, Patti, Ethel, Carl, Kade, Sherri, Charles, Sandra, Lola, Ruby, Norman, Diana, Sarah, Shannah, Lynne, Harrington, Joan, Robyn, Phebe, Hunter, Ann, Beth, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Tom, Jill, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Susan, Beverly, Rhoda, Crystal, and Christopher.

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Theresa Jarvis (4 August 2011) and Irene Dechesneau Butler (4 August 2005).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, we are asked to pray for the new Province of Alexandria created from the former Diocese of Egypt with North Africa and the Horn of Africa in the Episcopal Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East; in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, for the people and clergy of The Church of the Transfiguration, Cranston; Christ Church, Lincoln; and Christ Church, Westerly.

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Saturday 8 August
Epiphany Soup Kitchen (Meal Pickup Only)  2:30-4:30 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

* REGATHERING HAS RESUMED FOR IN-PERSON SERVICES ON SUNDAYS (80 PEOPLE TOTAL) AND WEEKDAYS (14 PEOPLE TOTAL)
* ALL ATTENDEES MUST ADHERE TO WRITTEN AND VERBAL PROTOCOLS TO ATTEND


Sunday 2 August
NINTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 13, Year Two
Monday 3 August
FINDING OF THE RELICS OF SAINT STEPHEN (R)
Nicodemus, 1st century
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Tuesday 4 August
FERIA (G)
Jean-Baptiste Vianney, Curé d’ Ars, Spiritual Guide, 1859
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Wednesday 5 August
FERIA (G)
Oswald, King of Northumbria, Martyr, 642
Evening Prayer  5:30 pm
Low Mass  6 pm

Thursday 6 August
TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD (W)
Xystus (Sixtus II), Pope and Martyr, 258
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Friday 7 August
FERIA (G)
John Mason Neale, Priest, Scholar, Hymn Writer, 1866
Noonday Prayer  12 noon
Low Mass  12:10 pm

Saturday 8 August
Dominic, Friar, Founder of the Order of Preachers, 1221 (W)
Morning Prayer  9:30 am
Low Mass  10 am

Sunday 9 August
TENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Sung Mass  10 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (9 August)

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost (Year A)
1 Kings 19:9-18
Psalm 85:8-13
Romans 10:5-15
Matthew 14:22-33