PARISH NOTES 

Sunday 4 March 2018

Moses Receiving the Law
Mosaic, Saint Catherine's Monastery, Sinai, 6th century

FROM THE RECTOR

At the beginning of every Mass (in Rite One) the priest recites the words of Jesus known as the Summary of the Law: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." This threefold love of God, neighbor, and self is the central principle of all Christian ethics and spirituality. In this Sunday's reading from Exodus, we hear again the Ten Commandments, the core of God's Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai. Traditionally, Commandments 1 through 4 have been understood to explain in fuller detail what it means to love God, while Commandments 5 through 10 explain what it means to love our neighbor as ourselves. The Gospel reading in turn shows that the love of God and neighbor can take "tough" forms, as Jesus drives the moneychangers and merchants from the Temple precincts. Still, love is what we aim to realize in our relationships with God, neighbor, and self as we pursue the Christian journey through Lent, and through life. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS 

Third Sunday in Lent, Year B 

Psalm 19

Exodus 20:1-17

1 Corinthians 1:18-25

John 2:13-22

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC 

Plainchant—Missa XI (Orbis factor) 

John Cook (1918-1984)—Author of Light

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Commemoration of the Departed—of this parish whose year’s mind falls during March will be included in the Low Mass tomorrow, Monday 5 March at 6:00 pm (preceded by Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm). If you have any names to add to the list of those remembered, please email Fr. Alexander. See GAS announcement below. 

Guild of All Souls: St. Stephen, Proto-Martyr Branch – S. Stephen’s celebrates a parish Requiem Mass on the First Monday of most months at the 6:00 pm Mass. Departed members of the parish whose anniversaries fall during the month are remembered in prayer, and anyone may submit additional names of the departed. 

Lenten Series – This year’s Lenten Series will consist of supper and presentation and discussion of the series “Growing a Rule of Life,” developed by the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE). It will be on Sunday evenings in Lent from 6-8 pm (February 18 & 25, March 4, 11, & 18), followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the Lady Chapel. 

Stations of the Cross – continues this Friday evening. We gather in the Lady Chapel at 6 pm. All are welcome and cordially invited to attend and participate in this moving devotion. 

Holy Rosary – as an extra Lenten devotion, the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary will be recited on Saturdays in Lent following the 10 am Low Mass. All welcome: no prior experience needed! 

Episcopal Ministry at Brown & RISD (EMBR) – Sunday evening prayer with EMBR continues this evening in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm. Please join us in the Great Hall after for supper and our Lenten series at 6:00 pm. 

Easter Flowers – If you would like to make a flower offering at Easter – in thanksgiving or in memoriam - please fill out the enclosed envelope and either put it in the offering plate or return it to the parish office no later than Friday 23 March. Offerings and their intentions will be acknowledged in the Easter Kalendars. 

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction. 

FOR YOUR PRAYERS 

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Rollin, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Jonathan, Zac, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James. 

Birthdays this week: George Ryan (Tuesday 3/6) and Bill Dilworth (Friday 3/9). 

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Josephine Garrett Brown (7 March 1989), Hilda Grace Stevens (7 March 1991), Ruth Hannah Godfrey (9 March 1987), and Robert Russell Sandstrom (10 March 2016). 

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the Province de L'Eglise Anglicane Du Congo: The Most Rev’d Zacharie Masimango Katanda, Archbishop of the Congo & Bishop of Kindu; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for those who are preparing to serve God as ordained ministers in the church. 

THE SUNDAY ROTA 

Acolytes – MC J Ihnen; Subdeacon/Crucifer R Noble; Thurifer J Starks; 

Torches L Verdelotti, G Benziger 

Lector – RG Noble 

Ushers – Tom Bledsoe and Bruce Lennihan 

Coffee Hour – Modu and Family 

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S 

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS, & MEETINGS 

Sunday 4 March 

Lenten Discussion & Video Series 6:00-8:00 pm (Great Hall) 

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S 

Friday 9 March 

Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) 7:00 pm (Great Hall) 

Saturday 10 March 

Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall) 

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE 

4 March 

THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT (LA) 

Morning Prayer 8:00 am 

Low Mass 8:10 am 

Solemn Mass 10:00 am 

Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm 

Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 8:00 pm 

Daily Office Lectionary – Lent III, Year Two 

Daily Mass Lectionary – Lent III 

5 March 

Monday in Lent III (V) 

Evening Prayer 5:30 pm 

Low Mass 6:00 pm 

6 March 

Tuesday in Lent III (V) 

Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon 

Low Mass 12:10 pm 

7 March 

Perpetua, Felicity, and Companions, Martyrs at Carthage, 202 (R) 

Evening Prayer 5:30 pm 

Low Mass 6 pm 

8 March 

Thursday in Lent III (V) 

Edward King, Bishop of Lincoln, 1910 

Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon 

Low Mass 12:10 PM 

9 March 

Gregory, Bishop of Nyssa, c. 394 (W) 

Noonday Prayer 12 noon 

Low Mass 12:10 pm 

Stations of the Cross 6:00 pm 

10 March 

Saturday in Lent III (V) 

Morning Prayer 9:30 am 

Low Mass 10:00 am 

Holy Rosary 10:30 am 

11 March 

FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT (LA) 

Morning Prayer 8:00 am 

Low Mass 8:10 am 

Solemn Mass 10:00 am 

Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm 

Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 8:00 pm 

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (11 March) 

Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year B 

Psalm 107:1-3,17-22

Numbers 21:4-9

Ephesians 2:1-10

John 3:14-21

PARISH NOTES

Sunday 25 February 2018

Abram and Christ
Manuscript Illumination, Kiev Psalter, 1397
Russian National Library, St. Petersburg

FROM THE RECTOR

In the ancient world, a covenant was an agreement in which two (or more) parties solemnly bound themselves to mutual obligations. For example, a king might promise to protect and justly govern a subject people, who would in turn pledge their loyalty, obedience, and tribute. Such a covenant would often be commemorated by a monument or other sign reminding all parties of its terms. This Lent, the Old Testament readings at Mass call our attention to a series of covenants God has made with his people, beginning (last week) with his covenant with Noah (the sign of which is the rainbow), and continuing (this week) with his covenant with Abram and Sarai, the sign of which is the change of their names to Abraham and Sarah. 

Christians believe that God has made a New Covenant with us in the Death and Resurrection of his Son Jesus Christ -- the definitive signs of which are the Church's Sacraments, especially Baptism, at which God forgives our sins, adopts us as his children, and makes us inheritors of his Kingdom. That is God's side of "the Baptismal Covenant." The Season of Lent invites us to reflect on how well we're living into our side of the Covenant by keeping our baptismal vows and promises. Please join us this Sunday as we continue this Lenten journey of self-examination and repentance together. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS 

Second Sunday in Lent, Year B
Psalm 22:22-30
Genesis 17:1-7,15-16
Romans 4:13-25
Mark 8:31-38

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC 

Plainchant—Missa VII (Kyrie Rex splendens)

Orlando Gibbons—O Lord, in thy wrath

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

The S. Stephen – the Lent issue of the parish magazine is available for viewing and downloading here. You should have received a physical copy via mail by this time. If you have not received a physical copy, extra copies are available in the narthex.

Lenten Series – This year’s Lenten Series will consist of supper and presentation and discussion of the series “Growing a Rule of Life,” developed by the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE). It will be on Sunday evenings in Lent from 6-8 pm (February 18 & 25, March 4, 11, & 18), followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the Lady Chapel.

Stations of the Cross – continues this Friday evening. We gather in the Lady Chapel at 6 pm. All are welcome and cordially invited to attend and participate in this moving devotion.

Holy Rosary – as an extra Lenten devotion, the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary will be recited on Saturdays in Lent (except on our Lenten Quiet Day, March 3) following the 10 am Low Mass. All welcome: no prior experience needed!

Episcopal Ministry at Brown & RISD (EMBR) – Sunday evening prayer with EMBR continues this evening in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm. Please join us in the Great Hall after for supper and our Lenten series at 6:00 pm.

Lenten Quiet Day – with addresses by Sister Adele Marie, SSM, will be offered this coming Saturday 3 March beginning at 9 am, and concluding with Tea at 2 pm. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. To help us in our preparations, if you plan to attend please RSVP to Susan in the parish office at 401-421-6702, ext. 1, or by email.

Easter Flowers – If you would like to make a flower offering at Easter – in thanksgiving or in memoriam - please fill out the enclosed envelope and either put it in the offering plate or return it to the parish office no later than Friday 23 March. Offerings and their intentions will be acknowledged in the Easter Kalendars.

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS 

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Elizabeth, Rollin, Sue, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Jonathan, Zac, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James.

Birthdays this week: Florence Friedman (Tuesday 2/27).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Barbara Albee (26 February 2012), Robert Cartwright (28 February 1992), Jane Graves Raymond (29 February 1998), Flora Hilda Harding (2 March 1994), Alice Hunt (2 March 1998), and Mary Chase (2 March 1992).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for Iglesia Anglicana de la Region Central de America: The Most Rev’d Sturdie Downs, Primate of IARCA & Bishop of Nicaragua; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the people and clergy of St. David’s on-the-Hill, Cranston.

THE SUNDAY ROTA 

Acolytes – MC F Pisaturo; Subdeacon J Ihnen; Thurifer L Verdelotti; Crucifer D Malo; Torches V Johnson, R Callanan
Lector – J Steiny
Ushers – Phoebe Pettingell and Karl Benziger
Coffee Hour – Karl and Klara Benziger

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S 

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS, & MEETINGS

Sunday 25 February
Lenten Discussion & Video Series 6:00-8:00 pm (Great Hall)

Saturday 3 March
Lenten Quiet Day 9:00 am-2:00 pm

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 2 March
Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) 6:00 pm (Great Hall)

Saturday 3 March
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall)

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 25 February
THE SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT (LA)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 8:00 pm

Daily Office Lectionary – Lent II, Year Two
Daily Mass Lectionary – Lent II

26 February
Monday in Lent II (V)
Oswald, Archbishop of York, 992
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

27 February
Tuesday in Lent II (V)
George Herbert, Priest, Poet, 1633
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

28 February
Wednesday in Lent II (V)
Founding of the Society of the Holy Cross (SSC), 1855
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

1 March
David, Bishop of Menevia, Patron of Wales, c. 601 (W)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 PM

2 March
Chad, Bishop of Lichfield, c. 602 (W)
Noonday Prayer 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm
Stations of the Cross 6:00 pm

3 March
Saturday in Lent II (V)
John and Charles Wesley, Priests, 1791, 1788
Morning Prayer 9:30 am
Low Mass 10:00 am
Noonday Prayer 12 noon

4 March
THE THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT (LA)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 8:00 pm

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (4 March)

Third Sunday in Lent, Year B
Psalm 19
Exodus 20:1-17
1 Corinthians 1:18-25
John 2:13-22

PARISH NOTES 

Sunday 18 February 2018

William Butterfield, Noah Offering Sacrifice (1870)
Mosaic, Chapel of Keble College, Oxford
(Photo: Fr. Lawrence Lew, OP)

FROM THE RECTOR

The season of Lent invites us to renew our commitment to the basic practices of the Christian faith with the goal of repairing our relationships with God, our neighbors, and ourselves. The Solemn Procession accompanying the Great Litany on the First Sunday of Lent fittingly symbolizes our pilgrimage -- through the Lenten Season towards Holy Week and Easter, and through the life of this world towards our heavenly destination. Please join us as we undertake the journey together. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS 

First Sunday in Lent, Year B
Psalm 25:1-9
Genesis 9:8-17
1 Peter 3:18-22
Mark 1:9-15

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC 

Plainchant—Missa III (Kyrie Deus sempiterne)

John Blow—Salvator Mundi

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Shrine Flowers – at the Lady Shrine last week were given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Alan Reniere by Brian Ehlers. (We had already printed Parish Notes when we received this flower dedication.)

Presidents Day (February 19) – As on all public holidays falling on Monday, Low Mass will be offered at 10:00 am, preceded by Morning Prayer at 9:30 am.

The S. Stephen – the Lent issue of the parish magazine is available for viewing and downloading here. You should have received a physical copy via mail by this time. If you have not received one, extra copies are available in the narthex.

Lenten Series – This year’s Lenten Series will consist of supper and the viewing and discussion of the video series “Growing a Rule of Life,” produced by the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE). It will be on Sunday evenings in Lent from 6-8 pm (February 18 & 25, March 4, 11, & 18), followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the Lady Chapel. Click here for an invitation to the series!

Stations of the Cross – will be offered on Fridays in Lent at 6 pm (February 16, 23, March 2, 9, 16, 23).

Holy Rosary – as an extra Lenten devotion, the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary will be recited on Saturdays in Lent (except on our Lenten Quiet Day, March 3) following the 10 am Low Mass. All welcome: no prior experience needed!

Episcopal Ministry at Brown & RISD (EMBR) – Sunday evening prayer with EMBR continues this evening in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm. Please join us in the Great Hall after for our Lenten video series at 6:00 pm.

Lenten Quiet Day – with addresses by Sister Adele Marie, SSM, will be offered on Saturday 3 March beginning at 9 am, and concluding with Tea at 2 pm. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. To help us in our preparations, if you plan to attend please RSVP to Susan in the parish office at 401-421-6702, ext. 1, or by email at office@sstephens.necoxmail.com.

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS 

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Jonathan, Zac, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James.

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: John Walker (18 February 2008), Frederick A. Starks, Sr. (19 February 1985), and Dorothy Belden (23 February 1997).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Church of the Province of Central Africa: The Most Rev’d Albert Chama, Archbishop of Central Africa & Bishop of Northern Zambia; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for Episcopal Charities and the ministries and agencies the fund supports.

THE SUNDAY ROTA 

Acolytes – MC F Pisaturo; Subdeacon Z Painter; Thurifer J Starks; Crucifer J Ihnen; Torches L Verdelotti, C Sylvia
Lector – P Pettingell
Ushers – George Ryan and Tom Oakes
Coffee Hour – Ed and Leana Hooks

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S 

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS, & MEETINGS

Sunday 18 February

Lenten Video Series 6:00-8:00 pm (Great Hall)

Tuesday 20 February
Vestry Meeting 7 pm (Library)

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Saturday 24 February
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall)

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

18 February
THE FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT (LA)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass with Great Litany 10:00 am
Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 8:00 pm

Daily Office Lectionary – Lent I, Year Two 

Daily Mass Lectionary – Lent I 

19 February
Monday in Lent I V)
Morning Prayer 9:30 am
Low Mass 10:00 am

20 February
Tuesday in Lent I (V)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

21 February
Wednesday in Lent I (V)
John Henry Newman, Priest, Theologian, 1890
Peter Damian, Monk, Bishop, Teacher, 1072
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6 pm

22 February
Thursday in Lent I (V)
The See of Peter the Apostle (Saint Peter’s Chair at Antioch)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 PM

23 February
Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, Martyr, c. 155 (R)
Noonday Prayer 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm
Stations of the Cross 6:00 pm

24 February
SAINT MATTHIAS THE APOSTLE (R)
Morning Prayer 9:30 am
Low Mass 10:00 am
Holy Rosary 10:30 am

25 February
THE SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT (LA)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 8:00 pm

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (25 February)

Second Sunday in Lent, Year B
Psalm 22:22-30
Genesis 17:1-7,15-16
Romans 4:13-25
Mark 8:31-38

PARISH NOTES

Sunday 11 February 2018

Fra Angelico, Transfiguration (1442)
Convent of Saint Mark, Florence

FROM THE RECTOR

To conclude the Season after the Epiphany, the Lectionary gives us a glimpse of the earthly Christ bathed in heavenly light in the episode known as the Transfiguration. The coming season of Lent begins with Jesus tempted by the devil in the wilderness and continues through to his Passion and Death.  But the last word in the Christian life is not the struggle with evil, but rather the vision of God. On the holy mountain, an anticipatory glimpse of the glory to be revealed in Christ's Resurrection and Ascension strengthens the disciples Peter, James, and John for their coming ordeal. Just as the joy of Easter Day makes Lent worthwhile, so the promise of heavenly glory makes the Christian life worthwhile. And, every so often, moments of Transfiguration fortify us for the journey ahead. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Last Sunday after the Epiphany, Year B
Psalm 50:1-6
2 Kings 2:1-12
2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Mark 9:2-9

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Zoltán Kodály (1882-1967) —Missa Brevis
Patrick Hadley (1899-1973) —My song is love unknown

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to the Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely – XIII Bishop of Rhode Island, who makes his biennial Episcopal Visitation today (Sunday 11 February). Bishop Knisely will celebrate and preach at both the 8 am and 10 am Masses, meet with the Vestry, and conduct a Forum at Coffee Hour. Please come and help make our Bishop welcome.

Flowers – at the High Altar are given by Phoebe Pettingell to the greater glory of God and in thanksgiving for the Apostolic Succession and for our own Bishop. Flowers at the Shrine of Our Lady are given by Brian Ehlers in loving memory of Alan E. Reniere.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper – Our annual pancake supper hosted by the Sunday School will be this Tuesday 13 February from 5:30 – 7 pm in our Great Hall. Tickets are available at the door. Please let us know if you plan to attend by calling Susan in the parish office at 401-421-6702, ext. 1 or via email to office@sstephens. necoxmail.com. All are welcome. Come enjoy a final culinary indulgence before Lent, and join in the burning of last year’s palms to make new ashes for Ash Wednesday.

Ash Wednesday Services (February 14) – Morning Prayer & Blessing of the Ashes will be celebrated at 8 am in the Lady Chapel. (You may receive ashes at this service.) Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm in the Lady Chapel will precede Solemn Mass with the Imposition of Ashes at 6 pm in the Nave.

Stations of the Cross & Lenten Series – This year’s Lenten Series will consist of supper and viewing and discussion of the video series “Growing a Rule of Life,” produced by the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE). It will be on Sunday evenings in Lent from 6-8 pm (February 18 & 25, March 4, 11, & 18). Stations of the Cross will be conducted on Fridays in Lent at 6 pm (February 16, 23, March 2, 9, 16, 23).

Parish Magazine – The Lent 2018 issue of The S. Stephen is in the mail, and is available for viewing and downloading here.

Special Birthday – Felicitations to long-time parishioner Elizabeth (Betty) Schumann, who celebrates her 100th birthday this Tuesday! (For security and privacy reasons we are not publishing her address but if you would like to send a card, please bring it to the church and we will be happy to deliver it for you.)

Episcopal Ministry at Brown & RISD (EMBR) – Sunday evening prayer with EMBR resumes this evening in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm. Discussion will follow. Please bring some ideas of how we might grow in Christ together this semester and be an extension of his mercies to the greater Providence area.

Parish Living Church Sponsorship – As a sponsor of the bi-weekly independent Episcopal news magazine The Living Church, Saint Stephen’s receives publicity in each issue, an annual write-up describing the parish’s life and work, and ten copies of each issue (which we make available free for the taking in the narthex). The cost of sponsorship, $3,000, is outside the parish budget; we rely entirely on individual contributions to make our contribution to this worthy cause. So, far $1,500 has been pledged. Please consider whether you would be able to make a gift towards the remaining $1,500. Make checks payable to Saint Stephen’s Church with “TLC Sponsorship” in the memo line. Thank you in advance.

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James.

Birthdays this week: Alison Huff (Monday 2/12), Elizabeth Schumann (Tuesday 2/13), M.P. Schneider (Wednesday 2/14), and Lucas Christopher Bledsoe (Saturday 2/17).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Thomas Greene Cure, Priest (13 February 2001), Alan Edward Reniere (15 February 2013), Christopher Dunstan (16 February 1994), Gary Lee Stamps (17 February 1991), and James W. Randolph (17 February 1985).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Anglican Church of Canada: The Most Rev’d Frederick Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for our retired Bishops, George Hunt and Geralyn Wolf and for all retired clergy of our Diocese.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes – MC F Pisaturo; Subdeacon J Ihnen; Thurifer Z Painter; Crucifer S Brazil; Torches G Benziger, D Malo
Lector – T Oakes
Ushers – Tom Bledsoe and Simon Newby
Coffee Hour – Society of Mary

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS, & MEETINGS

Tuesday 13 February
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper 5:30 pm (Great Hall)

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 16 February
Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) 7:00 pm (Great Hall)

Saturday 17 February
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall)

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 11 February
THE LAST SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (W)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Pontifical Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm

Daily Office Lectionary – Week of Last Sunday after Epiphany, Year Two

Daily Mass Lectionary – Week of Last Sunday after Epiphany, Year Two, and Lenten Weekdays following Ash Wednesday

Monday 12 February
FERIA (G)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

Tuesday 13 February
Absalom Jones, Priest, 1818 (W)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Wednesday 14 February
ASH WEDNESDAY (LA)
Morning Prayer & Blessing of the Ashes 8 am
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Solemn Mass with Imposition of Ashes 6 pm

Thursday 15 February
Thursday after Ash Wednesday (LA)
Sigfrid, Bishop, Apostle of Sweden, 1045
Thomas Bray, Priest, Missionary, Founder of the SPCK, 1730
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 PM

Friday 16 February
Friday after Ash Wednesday (LA)
Noonday Prayer 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 17 February
Saturday after Ash Wednesday (LA)
Janani Luwum, Archbishop of Uganda, Martyr, 1977
Morning Prayer 9:30 am
Low Mass 10:00 am

Sunday 18 February
THE FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT (LA)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer w/ EMBR 5:30 pm

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (18 February)

The First Sunday of Lent, Year B
Psalm 25:1-9
Genesis 9:8-17
1 Peter 3:18-22
Mark 1:9-15

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PARISH NOTES

Sunday 4 February 2018

John Bridges, Christ Healing Simon's Mother-in-Law (1839)
Birmingham Museum of Art, England

FROM THE RECTOR

"And [Jesus] went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons." (Mark 1:39). In his Galilean ministry, Jesus manifests his identity as the Son of God by three signature activities: preaching, healing, and deliverance. His miracles confirm the truth of his proclamation. And they signify to us that he is the source of all healing of our ailments and deliverance from whatever dark forces may overshadow our lives. All are invited to join us as we worship him and receive his strength, power, and protection in his holy Sacraments. 

-- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany, Year B                     
Psalm 147:1-12,21c
Isaiah 40:21-31
1 Corinthians 9:16-23
Mark 1:29-39

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Claude Goudimel—Messe “Tant plus ie Metz”
Luca Marenzio—Tribus Miraculis

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Blue Heron Concert – Today, Sunday 4 February at 4 pm, S. Stephen’s will be the venue for another exciting concert by Boston-based vocal ensemble Blue Heron, “Music from the Peterhouse Partbooks.” For more information, and to purchase tickets online, visit www.blueheron.org.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown & RISD (EMBR) – Sunday evening prayer with EMBR will resume next Sunday evening in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm due to the concert tonight. Discussion will follow. Please bring some ideas of how we might grow in Christ together this semester and be an extension of his mercies to the greater Providence area.

Monthly Requiem – for the departed of this parish whose year’s mind falls during February will be offered tomorrow, Monday 5 February at 6:00 pm (preceded by Evening Prayer at 5:30 pm). If you have any names to add to the list of those remembered, please email Fr. Alexander. See GAS announcement below.

Guild of All Souls: St. Stephen, Proto-Martyr – S. Stephen’s celebrates a parish Requiem Mass on the First Monday of most months at the 6:00 pm Mass. Departed members of the parish whose anniversaries fall during the month are remembered in prayer, and anyone may submit additional names of the departed.

Parish Living Church Sponsorship – As a sponsor of the bi-weekly independent Episcopal news magazine The Living Church, Saint Stephen’s receives publicity in each issue, an annual write-up describing the parish’s life and work, and ten copies of each issue (which we make available free for the taking in the narthex). The cost of sponsorship, $3,000, is outside the parish budget; we rely entirely on individual contributions to make our contribution to this worthy cause. So, far $1,500 has been pledged. Please consider whether you would be able to make a gift towards the remaining $1,500. Make checks payable to Saint Stephen’s Church with “TLC Sponsorship” in the memo line. Thank you in advance.

Annual Pancake Supper – The Sunday School will host the annual Pancake Supper on Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30pm.  Tickets are $5.00, available in advance or at the door.  Please join us for all-you-can-eat fun and fellowship...and bring your palms to burn for Ash Wednesday.

Blessing of Throats – If anyone would like to receive the blessing of throats in honor of the Feast of St. Blaise (February 3), please come to the Lady Chapel following the Closing Voluntary at the 10 am Mass.

Episcopal Visitation – of the Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, XIII Bishop of Rhode Island, will take place on Sunday 11 February, the Last Sunday after the Epiphany. As is customary, the Bishop will celebrate and preach at both Masses, meet with the Vestry, and conduct a question-and-answer session at Coffee Hour. Please plan to be on hand to welcome our Bishop back to S. Stephen’s.

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James.

Birthdays this week: Sharon Lloyd Clark (Friday 2/9) and Christopher Butler (Saturday 2/10).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Henry Francis Tingley, Jr. (4 February 1984), Mary L. Starks (5 February 1999), Paul David Ross (6 February 1996), Mildred Dunlop (8 February 1987), Madeline Nason (9 February 1985), and Madeline Thatcher Howes (10 February 1986).

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for The Anglican Church of Burundi: The Most Rev’d Martin Nyaboho, Archbishop of Burundi & Bishop of Makamba; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for our seminaries and our schools for deacons as they prepare our postulants and candidates for Holy Orders.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes – MC R Noble; Subdeacon Z Painter; Thurifer L Verdelotti; Crucifer F Pisaturo; Torches C Sylvia, J Ihnen
Lector – W Dilworth
Ushers – Sue Brazil and Nancy Gingrich
Coffee Hour – Rejto Family

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Sunday 4 February
Blue Heron Concert 4:00 pm

Friday 9 February

Reformed University Fellowship (RUF), 7:00 pm (Great Hall)

Saturday 10 February
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall)

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 4 February
THE FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (G)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionaries: Epiphany V, Year 2

Monday 5 February
Agatha, Martyr at Catania, 3rd century
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Requiem Mass 6:00 pm (Black)

Tuesday 6 February
The Martyrs of Japan, 1597 (R)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Wednesday 7 February
Cornelius the Centurion, 1st century (W) 

Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

Thursday 8 February
Jerome Emiliani, Priest, Founder of the Somaschi Fathers, 1537 (W)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 PM

Friday 9 February
FERIA (G)
Noonday Prayer 12 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 10 February
Scholastica, Abbess, c. 543 (W)
Morning Prayer 9:30 am
Low Mass 10:00 am

Sunday 11 February
THE LAST SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (G)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Pontifical Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR 5:30 pm

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (11 February)

Last Sunday after the Epiphany, Year B
Psalm 50:1-6
2 Kings 2:1-12
2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Mark 9:2-9

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PARISH NOTES

Sunday 28 January 2018

Jesus Casting Out a Demon in the Synagogue at Capernaum (detail)
Manuscript Illumination, Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, c. 1412-1416
Musée Condé, Chantilly, France

FROM THE RECTOR

"And they were astonished at [Jesus'] teaching, for he taught as one who had authority, and not as the scribes." In the Synagogue in Capernaum, Jesus teaches as one bearing divine authority within himself, and he demonstrates that authority by silencing and casting out a demon simply by his word of command. God-in-Christ is the author of all life, healing, cleansing, and redemption. Join us this Sunday as we celebrate his authority over "all things visible and invisible."
—Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Psalm 111
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Mark 1:21-28

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

Girolamo Frescobaldi—Missa sopra l’aria della Monaca
Orlande de Lassus—Gustate et videte

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Annual Parish Meeting – Please join us this morning after the 10 am Mass for the 180th Annual Meeting of the parish. All are welcome and invited to attend, although only active adult parishioners in good standing may vote. (If you have questions about your status as a parishioner, please ask Fr. Alexander. According to the canons of the Episcopal Church adults are 16 years old and older.) Child care is available through the luncheon and meeting.

Nominations Committee – candidates for the following positions have been nominated for election at the Annual Parish Meeting today: two seats on Vestry, four-year terms: Joy D'Ambra; Bobby Rose; one seat on Vestry three-year term: Bill Dilworth; Treasurer, one-year term: George Ryan; Clerk, one-year term: Phoebe Pettingell; two Diocesan Convention Delegates, one-year term: Jacob Ihnen; Frank Pisaturo; two Diocesan Convention Alternates, one-year term: Nancy Gingrich; Cathy Bledsoe.

Episcopal Ministry at Brown & RISD (EMBR) – Sunday evening prayer with EMBR resumes this evening in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm. Discussion will follow. Please bring some ideas of how we might grow in Christ together this semester and be an extension of his mercies to the greater Providence area.

King Charles the Martyr Choral Evensong – will be offered this afternoon at 5 pm at Saint John's Church, Newport, RI. Guest conductor: Barry Rose, O.B.E. (Tickets for the "English Tea" following are unfortunately all taken.) Low Mass in commemoration of the Royal Martyr will be offered here at S. Stephen's on his feast day, Tuesday 30 January, at 12:10 pm.

Parish Living Church Sponsorship – As a sponsor of the bi-weekly independent Episcopal news magazine The Living Church, Saint Stephen’s receives publicity in each issue, an annual write-up describing the parish’s life and work, and ten copies of each issue (which we make available free for the taking in the narthex). The cost of sponsorship, $3,000, is outside the parish budget; we rely entirely on individual contributions to make our contribution to this worthy cause. So, far $1,500 has been pledged. Please consider whether you would be able to make a gift towards the remaining $1,500. Make checks payable to Saint Stephen’s Church with “TLC Sponsorship” in the memo line. Thank you in advance.

Sung Mass for Candlemas – This Friday 2 February at 6:30 pm, we will celebrate the feast of The Presentation of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Temple at St. John’s, Newport. All are welcome and invited to attend. If you need help finding a ride, please contact Fr. Alexander.

Society of Mary – The Society of Mary will meet this Saturday 3 February for 9:30 am Morning Prayer, 10:00 Mass, recitation of the Rosary at 10:30, and a meeting in the Great Hall following. Everyone is welcome and invited.

Blue Heron Concert – Next Sunday 4 February at 4 pm, S. Stephen’s will be the venue for another exciting concert by Boston-based vocal ensemble Blue Heron, “Music from the Peterhouse Partbooks.” For more information, and to purchase tickets online, visit www.blueheron.org.

Episcopal Visitation – of the Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, XIII Bishop of Rhode Island, will take place on Sunday 11 February, the Last Sunday after the Epiphany. As is customary, the Bishop will celebrate and preach at both Masses, meet with the Vestry, and conduct a question-and-answer session at Coffee Hour. Please plan to be on hand to welcome our Bishop back to S. Stephen’s.

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James.

Birthdays this week: Thomas Bledsoe (Tuesday 1/30), Nathan Callanan (Thursday 2/1), and Charles O'Boyle (Friday 2/2).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Sterling C. Poitier (28 January 1996), Florence Matilda Colvin (30 January 1994), Anna Waterman Jackson McCoy (30 January 1985), and Ronald Parks Conner, Priest (30 January 2011). Recently Departed: Richard Laremore, Priest; Richard Olson.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for Igreja Episcopal Anglicana do Brasil: The Most Rev’d Francisco De Assis Da Silva, Primate of Brazil & Bishop of South-Western Brazil; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the leadership, staff and residents of Hallworth House.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes – MC S Brazil; Subdeacon Z Painter; Thurifer R Noble; Crucifer L Verdelotti; Torches F Pisaturo, V Johnson
Lector – M Johnson
Ushers – Patricia Barnes and TBD
Coffee Hour – Tom and Cathy

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

PARISH PROGRAMS, EVENTS & MEETINGS

Sunday 28 January
180th Annual Meeting (following 10 am Solemn Mass)

Saturday 3 February
Society of Mary approx. 11:00 (Great Hall)

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Friday 2 February
Reformed University Fellowship 4:00 pm (Great Hall)

Saturday 3 February
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall)

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 28 January
THE FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (G)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am
Evening Prayer with EMBR 5:30 pm

Daily Office and Mass Lectionaries: Epiphany IV, Year 2

Monday 29 January
Andrei Rublev, Monk and Iconographer, 1430 (W)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

Tuesday 30 January
Charles, King and Martyr, 1649 (R)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Wednesday 31 January
John Bosco, Founder of the Salesians, 1888 (W)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

Thursday 1 February
Brigid, Abbess of Kildare, 523 (W)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 PM

Friday 2 February
THE PRESENTATION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE (W)
Noonday Prayer 12 noon (at S. Stephen’s)
Low Mass 12:10 pm (at S. Stephen's)
Sung Mass 6:30 pm (at St. John’s, Newport)

Saturday 3 February
Anskar, Archbishop of Hamburg, Missionary in Denmark and Sweden, 865 (W)
Blaise, Bishop of Sebaste, Martyr, 316
Morning Prayer 9:30 am

Low Mass 10:00 am

Sunday 4 February
THE FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (G)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (4 February)

Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
Psalm 147:1-12,21c
Isaiah 40:21-31
1 Corinthians 9:16-23
Mark 1:29-39

PARISH NOTES

Sunday 21 January 2018

Jesus calls Simon and Andrew
(Can anyone please identify artist, date, and present location?)

FROM THE RECTOR

In this Sunday's Gospel, after the arrest of John the Baptist, Jesus comes into Galilee and begins his public ministry. His preaching combines a proclamation -- "The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand" -- and a summons -- "Repent, and believe in the gospel." To the fishermen Peter and Andrew, James and John, he issues the further call: "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men." Not all are called to the apostolic ministry -- leaving everything behind to follow Jesus as were the original apostles -- but all are called to repent and believe. Join us this Sunday as we explore what follows from believing that the Kingdom of God is at hand. -- Fr. John D. Alexander

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS

Third Sunday after the Epiphany
Psalm 62:6-14
Jonah 3:1-5,10
1 Corinthians 7:29-31
Mark 1:14-20

THIS SUNDAY’S MUSIC

R. Vaughan Williams—Service of Holy Communion in D minor
William Byrd—Surge, illuminare, Jerusalem

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Parish Living Church Sponsorship – As a sponsor of the bi-weekly independent Episcopal news magazine The Living Church, Saint Stephen’s receives publicity in each issue, an annual write-up describing the parish’s life and work, and ten copies of each issue (which we make available free for the taking in the narthex). The cost of sponsorship, $3,000, is outside the parish budget; we rely entirely on individual contributions to make our contribution to this worthy cause. So, far $1,500 has been pledged. Please consider whether you would be able to make a gift towards the remaining $1,500. Make checks payable to Saint Stephen’s Church with “TLC Sponsorship” in the memo line. Thank you in advance.

The Annual Parish Meeting – is scheduled to take place on Sunday 28 January, following the 10 am Mass. Please sign up on the sheets provided at Coffee Hour and in the Narthex to bring something to the potluck luncheon accompanying this event. Also, those submitting reports to be included in the Annual Meeting Report, please ensure that we receive them in the Parish Office no later than Monday 22 January.

Nominations Committee – has made the following nominations for elections at the Annual Parish Meeting, to be held on next Sunday, 28 January:

(a) Two seats on Vestry, four-year terms: Joy D'Ambra; Bobby Rose;
(b) One seat on Vestry three-year term: Bill Dilworth;
(c) Treasurer, one-year term: George Ryan;
(d) Clerk, one-year term: Phoebe Pettingell;
(e) Two Diocesan Convention Delegates, one-year term: Jacob Ihnen; Frank Pisaturo;
(f) Two Diocesan Convention Alternates, one-year term: Nancy Gingrich; Cathy Bledsoe.

(Please note that Zac Painter has had to withdraw his previous acceptance of the nomination for Treasurer on account of a likely pending move, so our current Treasurer George Ryan has consented to continue serving for the time being.) Sincere thanks to the Nominating Committee for its work!

Blue Heron Concert – On Sunday 4 February at 4 pm, S. Stephen’s will be the venue for another exciting concert by Boston-based vocal ensemble Blue Heron, “Music from the Peterhouse Partbooks.” For more information, and to purchase tickets online, visit www.blueheron.org.

Episcopal Visitation – of the Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, XIII Bishop of Rhode Island, will take place on Sunday 11 February, the Last Sunday after the Epiphany. As is customary, the Bishop will celebrate and preach at both Masses, meet with the Vestry, and conduct a question-and-answer session at Coffee Hour. Please plan to be on hand to welcome our Bishop back to S. Stephen’s.

Sincere Thanks – from Ed and Leana Hooks on making their wedding last Sunday such a special and happy occasion.

Nave Flooring Project – Over the coming few months the entire tile floor under the pews will be covered over with a layer of birch paneling that will vastly improve the church's appearance and create a smooth surface underfoot. This project will not impact our Sunday worship schedule, but please exercise all due care and avoid any areas that have been cordoned off for this construction.

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Prayers have been requested for: Geoff, Norman, Shannah, Sister Carolyn, Lynne, William, Gerald, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Mary, Gus, Leonard, Harrington, Joan, Sally, Sandy, John, Ed, Gregory, Virginia, Richard, Colin, Sandy, Kiersten, Beverly, Deborah, Bryan, Angela, Bobby, Douglas, Beverly, Allora, Carlos, Chris, Rhoda, William, and James.

Birthdays this week: Danielle Malo (Monday 1/22).

The faithful departed: Year’s Mind: Ellsworth E. R. Wallace (21 January 1987), Ruth B. Bodell (21 January 1985), Gordon Bramwell (22 January 2002), Claire B. Bentley (25 January 1984), and L'Marie Blunt (25 January 1994). Recently Departed: Richard Laremore, Priest; Richard Olson.

Anglican and Diocesan Cycles of Prayer – In the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the Church of Bangladesh: The Most Rev’d Paul Shishir Sarker Moderator, Church of Bangladesh & Bishop of Dhaka; and in the Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, please pray for the people and clergy of St. Paul's, North Kingstown and of St. Paul's, Pawtucket and of St. Paul's, Portsmouth.

THE SUNDAY ROTA

Acolytes – MC F Pisaturo; Subdeacon R Noble; Thurifer Z Painter; Crucifer J Ihnen; Torches L Verdelotti, K Rejto
Lector – P Martin
Ushers – Christopher Martel and Karl Benziger
Coffee Hour – Susan, Nancy, and Louis

THIS WEEK AT S. STEPHEN’S

EXTRA-PAROCHIAL EVENTS HOSTED AT S. STEPHEN’S

Saturday 27 January
Epiphany Soup Kitchen 2:30 pm (Great Hall)

LITURGICAL CALENDAR & SERVICE SCHEDULE

Sunday 21 January
THE THIRD SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (G)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am

Daily Office and Mass Lectionaries: Epiphany III, Year 2

Monday 22 January
Vincent, Deacon of Saragossa and Martyr, 250 (R)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

Tuesday 23 January
FERIA (G)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Wednesday 24 January
Francis de Sales, Bishop of Geneva, 1622 (W)
Evening Prayer 5:30 pm
Low Mass 6:00 pm

Thursday 25 January
THE CONVERSION OF SAINT PAUL THE APOSTLE (W)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 PM

Friday 26 January
Timothy and Titus [and Silas], Companions of Saint Paul (R)
Noonday Prayer 12:00 noon
Low Mass 12:10 pm

Saturday 27 January
FERIA (G)
Morning Prayer 9:30 am
Low Mass 10:00 am

Sunday 28 January
THE FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY (G)
Morning Prayer 8:00 am
Low Mass 8:10 am
Solemn Mass 10:00 am

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS (28 January)

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Psalm 111
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Mark 1:21-28