ONLINE PARISH NOTES

Sunday 19 October 2014

S. Stephen's Organist and Choirmaster James Busby

FROM THE RECTOR

One of the pleasures of life at S. Stephen's is our first-rate music program. This Sunday affords us the opportunity to come back to church at 5:30 pm to listen to a recital given by our own Organist and Choirmaster, James Busby. Details of the program are given below. Coming out in force to attend James's recital is one important way of showing our appreciation for all that he does -- including how much we value the enormous contribution he makes to the liturgical and musical life of our parish. It is more than a worthwhile experience in its own right as well. I look forward to seeing good numbers of parishioners both at our morning services this Sunday and at the recital in the evening. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Proper 24, Year A – Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 45:1-7, Psalm 96:1-9, (10-13), 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:15-22

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to all visitors and guests – we’re glad that you’re here. Please join us after the 10 am Mass for coffee and refreshments in the Great Hall, upstairs. Today’s coffee hour is hosted by Tom Oakes, Pat Fuller, and Karen Vorbeck Williams.

Memorial Organ Recital – This evening at 5:30 pm, organist/choirmaster James Busby will play his annual memorial organ recital, featuring Aaron Copland’s Preamble (for a Solemn Occasion), Messe Solemnelle à l’usage de paroisses of François Couperin with plainchant versets sung by the gentlemen of the Schola Cantorum, and Leo Sowerby’s organo-deco masterpiece Symphony in G. A reception follows in our Great Hall. If you have a location where you are willing to post a publicity flyer, please see Cory MacLean.

Saint James of Jerusalem (October 23) – a major Holy Day of the Church year, will be kept this Thursday with the Morning Prayer at 8 am and Low Mass at 8:30.

Stewardship Brunch – Yes, talking about Church finances and money can be fun! To help make it so, we are planning two catered brunches for members (and regular attendees) of the parish following both Sunday morning Masses next Sunday 26 October. It will be an opportunity to sit down, enjoy breakfast in the company of fellow parishioners, and hear a brief presentation on our stewardship goals for 2015. Letters of invitation are being sent to our regular mailing list; but in case you do not receive yours, this is your invitation. Please RSVP by calling the parish office at 401-421-6702 and leaving a message for Cory at extension 1; or by emailing office@sstephen's.necoxmail.com.

All Souls Day – Requiem for the Commemoration of all Faithful Departed will be offered on Monday 3 November at 6 pm, preceded by Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm. If you would like the names of departed loved ones read at the Mass, please legibly fill out the form included in today’s Kalendar, and either give it to an usher or slip it through the office door mail slot before you leave. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, October 29th.

Housing Needed – If anyone has or knows of an apartment or similar accommodation suitable for a single S. Stephen’s parishioner returning to the area after a number of years away, please contact Fr. Alexander.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD – The Student Group continues its activities for the academic year with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper. All students, undergraduate and graduate, are welcome and invited. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We continue offering tea in the Narthex Wednesday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Windows and Floors – you may have noticed the absence of the rugs in the sanctuary, as well as the removal of one of the vent panels in the Ames memorial window on the north wall. These are preliminary steps in two exciting projects now in the works; the repair and refinishing of the sanctuary floor, and the restoration of the stained glass windows along the north aisle of the nave. We’ll keep you posted on further developments.

Brass and silver polishing – We are looking for capable volunteers to polish our brass and silver fixtures and accoutrements. If you are willing to help, please see Fr. Alexander.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – If you would like to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received, the cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Nicholas Andrews, Jonno Boyer-Dry, Nancy Bredbeck, Patrick Brown, Will Calverley, Townsend Cass, The Rev. Norman Catir, Hannah Flanagan, Kaitlyn Flanagan, Mary Flanagan, The Rev. Harrington Gordon, Davaughn Hooks, Hugh McNamar, Beverly Myers, Angela Rose, Rhoda Steinhart, The Rev. Henry Turnbull, The Rt. Rev. Thomas Shaw, The Rev. James Verdelotti, Richard Viti, Lynne Walker, Kathleen Werner, and Richard Werner.

The faithful departed: Year’s mind: Phyllis Hayden Potterton (20 October 1997) and Megda Dunham Hawkins (20 October 1984); Recently Departed: Pauline Frances Bell

Birthdays this week: David Brooks (October 22nd)

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Church in the Province of the West Indies: The Most Rev’d & The Hon. Dr. John Holder, Archbishop of West Indies & Bishop of Barbados; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership and people of St. Luke's, East Greenwich: Tim Rich and Noel Bailey; and St. Luke's, Pawtucket: Dennis Bucco and Joyce Thorne.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC S Brazil; SD R Himes; Thurifer B Rose; Crucifer L Hooks; Torches DO Latimer, L Rejto

Lector – E Alexander

Ushers – N Gingrich, G Ryan

Coffee Hour – T Oakes, P Fuller, K Vorbeck Williams

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Sunday 19 October
Memorial Organ Recital 5:30 pm (reception following)

Wednesday 22 October
Afternoon Tea 4 pm

Sunday 26 October
Stewardship Brunches (following the 8 and 10 am Masses)

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 24 October
Reformed University Fellowship 7 pm

Saturday 25 October

Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 19 October
NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 24, Year Two

Monday 20 October
Feria (G)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Tuesday 21 October
Feria (G)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 22 October
Feria (G)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 23 October
SAINT JAMES OF JERUSALEM (R)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 24 October
Feria (G)
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 25 October
Crispin and Crispinian, Martyrs at Rome, c. 287 (R)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am

Sunday 26 October
TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

*EMBR = Episcopal Ministry at Brown and RISD

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (October 26)

Proper 25, Year A – Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18, Psalm 1, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Matthew 22:34-46

ONLINE PARISH NOTES

Sunday 12 October 2014

Parable of the Wedding Banquet
14th Century Russian Icon

FROM THE RECTOR

"Many are called, but  few are chosen." The wedding banquet (Matthew 22:1-14) is one of our Lord's more challenging parables of the Kingdom. Many of those invited refuse to come and suffer the consequences. Of those who accept the invitation, however, at least one guest is found unworthy to attend when he appears without the proper wedding garment. Join us this Sunday at S. Stephen's as we explore the meaning of this and the other appointed scriptural readings.  -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Proper 23, Year A – Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 25:1-9, Psalm 23, Philippians 4:1-9, Matthew 22:1-14 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Columbus Day – As on all public holidays falling on Monday, Low Mass tomorrow, Monday 13 October, will be celebrated at 9:30 am, preceded by Morning Prayer at 9.

Saint Luke the Evangelist (October 18) – a major Holy Day of the Church year, will be kept this Saturday with the Morning Prayer at 9 am and Low Mass at 9:30.

Eucharistic Adoration – On Saturday 18 October, the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament will sponsor approximately an hour of silent prayer and meditation in the Lady Chapel before the Blessed Sacrament, beginning shortly after the end of the 9:30 am Mass, and concluding by 11 am. All are welcome and invited to participate.

Memorial Organ Recital – Next Sunday 19 October at 5:30 pm, organist/choirmaster James Busby will play his annual memorial organ recital, featuring Aaron Copland’s Preamble (for a Solemn Occasion), Messe Solemnelle à l'usage de paroisses of François Couperin with plainchant versets sung by the gentlemen of the Schola Cantorum, and Leo Sowerby’s organo-deco masterpiece Symphony in G. A reception follows in our Great Hall. If you have a location where you are willing to post a publicity flyer, please see Cory MacLean.

Stewardship Brunch – Yes, talking about Church finances and money can be fun! To help make it so, we are planning two catered brunches for members (and regular attendees) of the parish following both Sunday morning Masses on October 26. It will be an opportunity to sit down, enjoy breakfast in the company of fellow parishioners, and hear a brief presentation on our stewardship goals for 2015. Letters of invitation are being sent to our regular mailing list; but in case you do not receive yours, this is your invitation. Please RSVP by calling the parish office at 401-421-6702 and leaving a message for Cory at extension 1; or by emailing office@sstephen's.necoxmail.com.

Housing Needed – If anyone has or knows of an apartment or similar accommodation suitable for a single S. Stephen's parishioner returning to the area after a number of years away, please contact Fr. Alexander.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD – The Student Group continues its activities for the academic year with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper. All students, undergraduate and graduate, are welcome and invited. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We continue offering tea in the Narthex Wednesday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Windows and Floors – you may have noticed the absence of the rugs in the sanctuary, as well as the removal of one of the vent panels in the Ames memorial window on the north wall. These are preliminary steps in two exciting projects now in the works; the repair and refinishing of the sanctuary floor, and the restoration of the stained glass windows along the north aisle of the nave. We’ll keep you posted on further developments.

Brass and Silver Polishing – We are looking for capable volunteers to polish our brass and silver fixtures and accoutrements. If you are willing to help, please see Fr. Alexander.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – If you would like to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received, the cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Nicholas, Jonno, Nancy, Patrick, Will, Townsend, Norman, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Harrington, Davaughn, Hugh, Beverly, Angela, Rhoda, Henry, Thomas, James, Richard, Lynne, Kathleen, and Richard.

The faithful departed: Year’s mind: David W. Marsland (14 October 1993) and William N. H. Potterton (17 October 1997)

Birthdays this week: Christine Sylvia (October 16th)

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Church of the Province of West Africa: The Most Rev’d Dr. Solomon Tilewa Johnson, Primate & Metropolitan, CPWA; Archbishop of Internal province of West Africa and Bishop of Gambia; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership and students of St. George’s School, Newport and their chaplain, Jeff Lewis; and for clergy of the Diocese: Henry Fairman and Ted Hallenbeck.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC R Rose; SD R Armidon; Thurifer J Starks; Crucifer L Bledsoe; Torches E Benziger, C Sylvia

Lector – J Chamberlin

Ushers – B Dilworth R Widmer

Coffee Hour – Society of Mary

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Wednesday 15 October
Afternoon Tea 4 pm

Saturday 18 October
Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament (following Eucharistic Adoration)
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 17 October
Reformed University Fellowship 7 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE 

Sunday 12 October
EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 23, Year Two

Monday 13 October
Edward the Confessor, King of England, 1066 (W)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am

Tuesday 14 October
Samuel Isaac Joseph Scherechewsky, Bishop, Translator of the Scriptures, 1906 (W)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 15 October
Teresa of Avila, Carmelite Nun, Teacher, 1582 (W)
Translation of the Image of Our Lady of Walsingham, 1931
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 16 October
Gall, Hermit, 670 (W)
Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, Bishops, Reformation Martyrs, 1555
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 17 October
Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, Martyr, c. 107 (R)
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 18 October
SAINT LUKE THE EVANGELIST (R)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am
Eucharistic Adoration 10 am

Sunday 19 October
NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

*EMBR = Episcopal Ministry at Brown and RISD


NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (October 19)

Proper 24, Year A – Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 45:1-7, Psalm 96:1-9, (10-13), 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:15-22

ONLINE PARISH NOTES

Sunday 5 October 2014

The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely
XIII Bishop of Rhode Island

FROM THE RECTOR

This Sunday, October 5, we have the great pleasure of welcoming Bishop W. Nicholas Knisely to S. Stephen's. The Bishop will be celebrating and preaching at all our Sunday morning services for the annual celebration of the Anniversary of the Dedication of our church building. The Mass setting will be the tremendously exciting traditional Congolese Missa Luba. Please join us and help welcome Bishop Knisely to S. Stephen's on his first official Episcopal Visitation to our parish.  -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Feast of the Dedication
Genesis 28:10-17, (Psalm 84:1-6), 1 Peter 2:1-5, 9, Matthew 21:12-16

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to all visitors and guests – we’re glad that you’re here. Please join us after the 10 am Mass for coffee and refreshments in the Great Hall, upstairs. Today’s coffee hour is hosted by Sue Brazil and Nancy Gingrich. In addition to a celebration of our monthly birthdays, Bishop Knisely will speak and answer questions.

October Year’s Mind – Departed parishioners whose anniversaries fall during October will be prayed for at the Requiem Mass this Monday, October  6, at 6 pm (preceded by Evening Prayer at 5:30). If you have any additional names of the departed to be remembered, please let Fr. Alexander know.

The Guild of All Souls -- will meet following the 6 pm Requiem Mass this Monday, October 6. Please join us if you like to learn more about the life and work of the Guild.

Vestry Meeting – The Vestry will meet this Tuesday evening, October 7, in the library at 7 pm (and not on the 14th as originally scheduled).

Society of Mary – will meet this Saturday, October 11, and not on the first Saturday as customarily scheduled. Please note the change is for this month only.

Memorial Organ Recital – On Sunday 19 October at 5:30 pm, organist/choirmaster James Busby will play his annual memorial organ recital, featuring Aaron Copland’s Preamble (for a Solemn Occasion), Messe Solemnelle á l'usage de pariosses of François Couperin with plainchant versets sung by the gentlemen of the Schola Cantorum, and Leo Sowerby’s organo-deco masterpiece Symphony in G. A reception follows in our Great Hall.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD (EMBR) – The Student Group continues its activities for the academic year with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper. All students, undergraduate and graduate, are welcome and invited. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We continue offering tea in the Narthex Wednesday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Windows and Floors – you may have noticed the absence of the rugs in the sanctuary, as well as the removal of one of the vent panels in the Ames memorial window on the north wall. These are preliminary steps in two exciting projects now in the works; the repair and refinishing of the sanctuary floor, and the restoration of the stained glass windows along the north aisle of the nave. We’ll keep you posted on further developments.

Brass and Silver Polishing – We are looking for capable volunteers to polish our brass and silver fixtures and accoutrements. In fact, the need is urgent. If you are willing to help, please see Fr. Alexander.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – If you would like to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received, the cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Nicholas, Jonno, Nancy, Patrick, Will, Townsend, Norman, David, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Harrington, Davaughn, Hugh, Beverly, Angela, Rhoda, Henry, Thomas, James, Richard, Lynne, Kathleen, and Richard.

The faithful departed: Year’s mind: Lawrence W. Seamans (5 October 1987), Lester Wilkinson (9 October 1983), Elizabeth A. Olsen (10 October 1999), and James K. Walker (11 October 2008)

Birthdays this week: James Busby (October 5th), Devon Callanan (October 7th), Deborah Abel (October 11th)

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Church in Wales: The Most Rev’d Dr. Barry Morgan, Archbishop of Wales & Bishop of Llandaff; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership and people of St. Francis, Coventry: Sean Manchester; and for clergy widows of the Diocese: Priscilla Martin, Betty Usher, Virginia Hastings, and Virginia Chase.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC R Noble; SD W Dilworth; Thurifer D Latimer; Crucifer R Rose; Torches V Johnson, K Hooks

Lector – J Steiny

Ushers – B Lennihan, Simon Newby

Coffee Hour – S Brazil, N Gingrich

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Monday 6 October
Guild of All Souls (following the 6 pm Mass)

Tuesday 7 October
Vestry Meeting 7 pm

Wednesday 8 October
Afternoon Tea 4 pm

Saturday 11 October
Society of Mary (following the 9:30 am Mass)
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 10 October
Reformed University Fellowship 7 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 5 October
FEAST OF THE DEDICATION (W)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Pontifical Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 22, Year Two

Monday 6 October
Bruno, Founder of the Carthusian Order, 1101 (W)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Tuesday 7 October
Our Lady of the Rosary (B)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 8 October
Feria (G)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 9 October
Denys, Bishop of Paris, and Companions, Martyrs, c. 258 (R)
Robert Grosseteste, Bishop of Lincoln, 1253
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 10 October
Paulinus, Bishop of York, Missionary, 644 (W)
Thomas Traherne, Poet, Spiritual Writer, 1674
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 11 October
Ethelburga, Abbess of Barking, 675 (W)
James the Deacon, Companion of Paulinus, 7th century
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am

Sunday 12 October
EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm


*EMBR = Episcopal Ministry at Brown and RISD


NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (October 12)

Proper 23, Year A – Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 25:1-9, Psalm 23, Philippians 4:1-9, Matthew 22:1-14

PARISH NOTES

Sunday 28 September 2014

The Archangel Saint Michael
Jaume Huguet, 1456

FROM THE RECTOR

After more than three months' summer break -- their last Sunday was June 22 -- the Schola Cantorum returns to S. Stephen's this Sunday. Their offerings will include William Byrd's Mass for Five Voices and Ne irascaris. Worship comprising music in the Western Catholic tradition is an integral component of our life and mission as a parish. Come to S. Stephen's this Sunday to help welcome the Schola back for the 2014-2015 season.   -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY'S READINGS

Proper 21, Year A – Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32, Psalm 25:1-8, Philippians 2:1-13, Matthew 21:23-32

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Episcopal Visitation – we are pleased to announce that the Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, XIII Bishop of Rhode Island, will make his first official Episcopal Visitation to S. Stephen’s at the 10 am Mass next Sunday 5 October. Please plan to be on hand for this momentous occasion. 

Saint Michael and All Angels (September 29th) – a major feast day of the church year, will be celebrated on Monday with Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm and Low Mass at 6 pm.

Vestry Meeting – The Vestry will meet on 7 October in the library at 7 pm, and not on the 14th as originally scheduled.

Society of Mary – will meet next month on Saturday 11 October, and not on the first Saturday as customarily scheduled. Please note the change is for this month only.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD (EMBR)– The Student Group continues its activities for the academic year with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper. All students, undergraduate and graduate, are welcome and invited. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We continue offering tea in the Narthex Wednesday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Windows and Floors – you may have noticed the absence of the rugs in the sanctuary, as well as the removal of one of the vent panels in the Ames memorial window on the north wall. These are preliminary steps in two exciting projects now in the works; the repair and refinishing of the sanctuary floor, and the restoration of the stained glass windows along the north aisle of the nave. We’ll keep you posted on further developments.

Brass polishing – We are looking for capable volunteers to polish our brass fixtures and liturgical accoutrements. If you are willing to help, please see Fr. Alexander.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – We will have altar decorations for the Sunday of the Visitation of the Bishop on October 5. This would be an ideal time for someone who wants to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received. The cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Nicholas, Jonno, Nancy, Patrick, Will, Townsend, Norman, Priest, David, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Harrington Priest, Davaughn, Hugh, Beverly, Angela, Rhoda, Henry, Priest, Thomas Shaw, Bishop, James Verdelotti, Priest, Richard, Lynne, Kathleen, and Richard.

The faithful departed: Year’s mind: Daniel Webster Latham (4 October 1986), Madge Lillian Hover Holmes (4 October 1992).

Birthdays this week: William Ripley (September 30th)

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Episcopal Church: The Most Rev’d Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of TEC ; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership and people of St. Michael's, Bristol: David Lucey; and for clergy of the Diocese: Ned Gammons, Hedwig Neale, Eloise Nielsen, Marshall Rice, Keith Scott and Stephanie Shoemaker.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC R Noble; SD R Rose; Thurifer L Verdelotti; Crucifer D Latimer; Torches R Callanan, K Rejto

Lector – RG Noble

Ushers – J Chamberlin, E Drew

Coffee Hour – K & K Benziger

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Wednesday 1 October
Afternoon Tea 4 pm

Saturday 4 October

Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 3 October

Reformed University Fellowship 7 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 28 September
SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 21, Year Two

Monday 29 September
SAINT MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS (W)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Tuesday 30 September
Jerome, Translator of the Scriptures, Teacher, 420 (W)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 1 October
Remigius, Bishop of Rheims, Apostle of the Franks, 533 (W)
Thérèse of Lisieux, Carmelite Nun, Spiritual Writer, 1897
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 2 October
The Holy Guardian Angels (W)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 3 October
Feria (G)
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 4 October
Francis of Assisi, Friar, Deacon, Founder of the Friars Minor, 1226 (W)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am

Sunday 5 October
FEAST OF THE DEDICATION (W)

Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Solemn Pontifical Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

*EMBR = Episcopal Ministry at Brown and RISD

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (October 5)

Feast of the Dedication

Genesis 28:10-17, (Psalm 84:1-6), 1 Peter 2:1-5, 9, Matthew 21:12-16

PARISH NOTES

Sunday 21 September 2014

FROM THE RECTOR

The indispensable foundation of Christian faith is the life, teaching, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the four Gospels at the beginning of the New Testament -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John -- record the eyewitness accounts of who Jesus was and what he did. The first Gospel is attributed to Saint Matthew, the tax collector whom Jesus called to follow him. In the current year of the three-year cycle of the Sunday Mass lectionary, the Gospel readings are mostly taken from Saint Matthew's Gospel. Matthew's feast day falls on September 21, and so this Sunday we take the opportunity to celebrate his witness to Jesus Christ as both Apostle and Evangelist. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

8 am – Proper 20, Year A – Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Jonah 3:10—4:11, Psalm 145:1-8, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16

10 am -- Saint Matthew
Proverbs 3:1-6, 2 Timothy 3:14-17, Matthew 9:9-13

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Fall Programs – The Schola Cantorum returns to begin a new season of choral Masses next Sunday 28 September. The new calendar of events and liturgical music brochures are in the works and you should receive them shortly.

Sunday School – Our Sunday School program begins this morning at 10 am. Students in grades K through 12 are welcome to participate. Meet in the third floor classroom.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD – The Student Group continues its activities on Sundays with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We continue offering tea and other refreshments in the Narthex Wednesday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We’ll pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – We will have altar decorations for the Sunday of the Visitation of the Bishop on October 5. This would be an ideal time for someone who wants to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received. The cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Nicholas, Jonno, Nancy, Will, Townsend, Norman, David, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Harrington, Davaughn, Hugh, Beverly, Angela, Rhoda, Henry, Thomas, James, Richard, Lynne, Kathleen, and Richard.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Church of the Province of Uganda: The Most Rev’d Stanley Ntagali, Archbishop of Uganda & and Bishop of Kampala; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership and people of Sts. Matthew and Mark, Barrington: Patrick Greene; St. Matthew's, Jamestown: Kevin Lloyd; and for clergy of the Diocese: Mark DeWolf, William Locke, and Livingston Merchant.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC W Dilworth; SD R Noble; Thurifer D Latimer; Crucifer L Bledsoe; Torches V Johnson, L Rejto

Lector – E Alexander

Ushers – K Benziger, J Steiny

Coffee Hour – A Huff

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Saturday 27 September

Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 26 September
Reformed University Fellowship 7 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 21 September
FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G) - 8 AM
SAINT MATTHEW (R) – 10 AM
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Sung Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 20, Year Two

Monday 22 September

Feria (G)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Tuesday 23 September
Feria (G)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 24 September
Our Lady of Walsingham (B)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 25 September
Sergei of Radonezh, Russian Monastic Reformer, Teacher, 1392 (W)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 26 September
Lancelot Andrewes, Bishop of Winchester, Spiritual Writer, 1626 (W)
Cosmas and Damina, Martyrs at Aegea, c. 287
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 27 September
Vincent de Paul, Founder of the Congregation of the Mission (Lazarists), 1660 (W)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am

Sunday 28 September

SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Sung Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR* 5:30 pm

* EMBR = Episcopal Ministry at Brown and RISD

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (September 28)

Proper 21, Year A – Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost 

Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32, Psalm 25:1-8, Philippians 2:1-13, 

Matthew 21:23-32

PARISH NOTES

Sunday 14 September 2014

FROM THE RECTOR

On certain occasions, the Liturgical Calendar offers us "second glances" at mysteries of the faith that have been celebrated earlier in the year. Thus, during Holy Week, we solemnly commemorate the Institution of the Eucharist on Maundy Thursday but then observe Corpus Christi nine weeks later. The celebration of Holy Cross Day on September 14 is an instance of the same principle. During Holy Week we commemorate our Lord's suffering and death on Good Friday. But then we return to look at the Cross again in mid-September.

These second glances allow us to consider the same mysteries from different angles. On Good Friday, the proper emphasis (contrary to some contemporary liturgists) is mourning for Christ's death and sorrow for the sins which made his sacrifice necessary. Holy Cross Day is a bit more celebratory, focusing on the Cross as the sign of Christ's victory over sin and death. Where Good Friday emphasizes the figure of the crucified Christ, Holy Cross Day emphasizes Christus Victor, Christ reigning from the Cross as King. We need both perspectives.

Since this year Holy Cross Day falls on Sunday, at the 10 am Mass we shall be taking advantage of the permission given in the Prayer Book rubrics to substitute "the Collect, Preface, and one or more of the Lessons appointed for the feast ... for those of the Sunday" (p. 16). The propers of the Sunday will be kept at the 8 am Mass.     -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

8 am – Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19, Year A)
Genesis 50:15-21, Psalm 103:8-13, Romans 14:1-12, Matthew 18:21-35

10 am  – Holy Cross Day
Isaiah 45:21-25, Philippians 2:5-11; John 12:31-36a

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Episcopal Visitation -- we are pleased to announce that the Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, XIII Bishop of Rhode Island, will make his first official Episcopal Visitation to S. Stephen's at the 10 am Mass on Sunday 5 October. Please plan to be on hand for this momentous occasion.

Fall Programs – The Schola Cantorum returns to begin a new season of choral Masses on Sunday 28 September. The new Liturgical Music and Programs and Events brochures are being printed and will be mailed soon.

Sunday School – Sunday School for the 2014-2015 program year begins next Sunday, September 21. (More details to follow.)

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD – The Student Group begins its activities for the current academic year today with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper. All students, undergraduate and graduate, are welcome and invited. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We continue offering tea in the Narthex Wednesday afternoons at 4 pm. This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Eucharistic Adoration -- beginning on Saturday 20 September, the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament will be sponsoring approximately an hour of silent prayer and meditation in the Lady Chapel before the Blessed Sacrament, beginning shortly after the end of the 9:30 am Mass, and concluding by 11 am. This traditional Eucharistic devotion will generally take place on the third Saturday of each month. All are welcome and invited to participate.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – We will have altar decorations for the Sunday of the Visitation of the Bishop on October 5. This would be an ideal time for someone who wants to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received. The cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Nicholas, Nancy, Will, Townsend, Norman, David, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Harrington, Davaughn, Hugh, Beverly, Angela, Rhoda, Henry, Thomas,  James, Richard, Lynne, Kathleen, and Richard.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Anglican Church of Tanzania: The Most Rev’d Jacob Erasto Chimeledya, Archbishop of Tanzania & Bishop of Mpwapwa; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership and people of Holy Cross, Middletown; and for clergy of the Diocese: Robert Cummings, Clare Fischer-Davies, David Ryan, Daryl Stahl, Gordon Stenning.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC D Latimer; SD W Dilworth; Thurifer L Bledsoe; Crucifer D Callanan; Torches R Callanan, C Sylvia

Lector – T Johnson

Ushers – R Viti, P Pettingell

Coffee Hour – L Latimer & E Hooks

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Saturday 20 September

Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 19 September
Reformed University Fellowship 7 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 14 September
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G) – 8 AM
HOLY CROSS DAY (R) – 10 AM
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Sung Mass 10 am
Campus Ministry Evening Prayer 5:30 pm

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 19, Year Two

Monday 15 September
Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, Martyr, 258 (R)
Our Lady of Sorrows (Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Tuesday 16 September
Ninian, Bishop of Galloway, Apostle of the Picts, c. 432 (W)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 17 September
Hildegard, Abbess of Bingen, Visionary, 1179 (W)
Lambert, Bishop of Maastricht, Martyr, c. 705
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 18 September
Edward Bouverie Pusey, Priest, Tractarian, 1882 (W)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 19 September
Theodore of Tarsus, Archbishop of Canterbury, 690 (W)
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 20 September
John Coleridge Patteson, First Bishop of Melanesia, and Companions, Martyrs, 1871 (R)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am
Eucharistic Adoration 10 am

Sunday 21 September
FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G) -8 AM
SAINT MATTHEW (R) – 10 AM
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Sung Mass 10 am
Campus Ministry Evening Prayer 5:30 pm

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (September 21)

8 am – Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20, Year A)
Jonah 3:10—4:11, Psalm 145:1-8, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16

10 am – Saint Matthew
Proverbs 3:1-6, 2 Timothy 3:14-17, Matthew 9:9-13

SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2014

Maurice Harron, "Hands Across the Divide," 1992
Derry, Northern Ireland

FROM THE RECTOR

The Church is in the business of reconciliation. Our Lord offered up his life on the cross to reconcile fallen humanity to God, and after his Resurrection he sent forth his disciples to be be agents of reconciliation among those at enmity with God and one another. As the members of his Church, we must be reconciled among ourselves. In this Sunday's Gospel (Matthew 18:15-20), Jesus prescribes a three-step procedure of reconciliation when members of the same congregation offend each other. How do these instructions apply to our life today? That is the question we hope to explore this Sunday.  -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Proper 18, Year A – Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Ezekiel 33:7-11 Psalm 119:33-40 Romans 13:8-14 Matthew 18:15-20

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Change in Weekday Mass Schedule – Please note that the Monday service schedule has now been changed to: Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm, Low Mass at 6 pm. All other weekday services remain at the same times.

The Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary (September 8th) – a major feast day of the church year, will be celebrated on Monday with Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm and Low Mass at 6 pm.

Fall Programs – The Schola Cantorum returns to begin a new season of choral Masses on Sunday 28 September. The new calendar of events and liturgical music brochures are in the works and will be mailed in the next few weeks.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown / RISD -- The Student Group begins its activities for the starting academic year next Sunday, September 14, with Evening Prayer in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm followed by supper and an initial meeting. For more information, please see Fr. Sawicky.

Wednesday Afternoon Teas – We hope to begin offering tea and other refreshments in the Narthex beginning this Wednesday afternoon at 4 pm. (Call the parish office Tuesday or Wednesday this week to verify that we're on.) This is a great opportunity to open the church to students and passersby, offer hospitality, and enjoy one another’s company. Any parishioners interested in helping out (for example, by bringing baked goods, cookies, or cupcakes) are invited to contact Fr. Sawicky. In any case, drop by, have a cup of tea and say hello! We’ll pack up in time for Evening Prayer at 5:30.

Flower Memorial Opportunities – If you would like to order flowers for the High Altar or the statue of our Lady in memory of a loved one or in thanksgiving for blessings received, the cost per vase for the High Altar is $80 (both vases $160), and $65 for a vase at the Statue of our Lady. Please send a check to the parish office for the amount, and let Cory MacLean know the intentions for which the flowers are offered.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Patrick, Nicholas, Nancy, Will, Townsend, Norman, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Harrington, Davaughn, Hugh, Beverly, Angela, Rhoda, Henry, Thomas, James, Richard, Lynne, Kathleen, and Richard.

The faithful departed: Year’s mind: Alan Peter Maynard, Priest (7 September 2006), Mary J. Seamans (10 September 1987), Michele Leighton (11 September 2009), James F. Littlefield (13 September 1986), and Margaret Chase (13 September 1998).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Episcopal Church of the Sudan: The Most Rev’d Dr. Daniel Deng Bul Yak, Archbishop of the Episcopal Church of the Sudan & Bishop of Juba; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for clergy widows of the Diocese: Margaret Cole, Adeline Crenson, Sarah Crum, Judy Hastings, Lora Miller-MacFall, Lois Shumaker.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes - MC S Brazil; SD R Armidon: Thurifer J Starks; Crucifer DV Hooks; Torches DO Latimer, V Johnson

Lector – M Johnson

Ushers – S Newby, L Verdelotti

Coffee Hour – The Rejto Family

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Saturday 13 September
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2 pm

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 7 September THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G)
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Sung Mass 10 am

Weekday Office and Mass Lectionary: Proper 18, Year Two

Monday 8 September THE BIRTH OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (B)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Tuesday 9 September
Charles Fuge Lowder, Priest, Founder of the Society of the Holy Cross, 1880 (W)
Constance, Nun, and Companions, 1878
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Wednesday 10 September
Finnian, Abbot of Moville, 589 (W)
Alexander Crummell, Priest, 1898
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

Thursday 11 September Feria (G)
Morning Prayer 8 am
Low Mass 8:30 am

Friday 12 September John Henry Hobart, Bishop of New York, 1830 (W)
Angelus 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 13 September John Chrysostom, Bishop of Constantinople, Teacher, 407 (W)
Morning Prayer 9 am
Low Mass 9:30 am

Sunday 14 September
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (G) - 8 AM
HOLY CROSS DAY (R) - 10 AM
Morning Prayer 7:30 am
Low Mass 8 am
Sung Mass 10 am
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (September 14)

Proper 19, Year A – Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost – 8 AM
Genesis 50:15-21, Psalm 103:(1-7), 8-13, Romans 14:1-12, Matthew 18:21-35

Holy Cross Day – 10 am
Isaiah 45:21-25, Philippians 2:5-11 OR Galatians 6:14-18, John 12:31-36a