Trusting in the Holy Spirit

The Vista for 24 February 2012. Spotlight Tucumcari

2012-02-25T11:44:00.001-07:00

Spotlight on Tucumcari for the Installation of Fr. Lake as Vicar

The Mountain on the way to Tucumcari

SHORTENING DIOCESAN CONVENTION

The 2012 Diocesan Convention will be a day shorter thanks to the vote of Diocesan Council. Convention will be October 17-19, 2012, in Albuquerque. The Opening Eucharist will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday October 17^th at the Cathedral of St. John. Business will convene Thursday morning October 18^th, and conclude at noon on Friday October 19^th. At that time all will be invited to attend the Grand Opening Gala of the remodeled Diocesan facilities at the Bosque Spiritual Life and Convention Center Friday afternoon.

LENTEN MESSAGE OF HOPE & FAITH

Bishop Vono's Lenten Message is posted on You Tube. The Message of "Hope and Faith" is appropriate in this season. Hope and Faith - there is a lot of that going around the Diocese. Enjoy!

The link to the video is:

http://youtu.be/eMIQWTAQ5lg

New Email for Together Submissions

To simplify the process for submitting materials for publication in the diocesan newspaper, Together, please email all materials to Together@dioceserg.org

Sharing Your Events with the Diocese

The Diocesan newspaper wants stories and photos of your events to share with the other members of the Diocese. Please ask those with writing and photo talents in your congregations to assist you in spreading the good news of your church with the rest of us. Send your submissions to Together@dioceserg.org.

Keeping up with what’s going on IN THE DRG!

Check out the Diocesan Blog. Canon Daniel Gutierrez is posting daily to keep the Diocese up to date on what’s up all around the Diocese. Visit the blog at http://trustingintheholyspirit.blogspot.com/ .

Certificates of Completion

Certificates of Completion for the Safeguarding Our Children training are available on the Praesidium website: Once a person has completed the training, Just click on the orange “print certificate” button on the Welcome Screen (above the course list).

SAFEGUARDING OUR CHILDREN

All Clergy and all persons who work with children or youth are required to take the training called Safeguarding Our Children. The training is available online. When enrolling you must choose to enroll under the name of your congregation.

To enroll:

Go to www.praesidiuminc.com/enroll
Enter the registration code: riogrande505
Fill out the form and click the link to enroll.
Print the page or write down your user login and password for future reference.
To begin training immediately click the first link or follow the instructions below to login later.

To begin training:

Go to www.safeguardingonline.org
Click the link at the bottom of the page.
Enter your user login and password.
Click on the title of a course to begin that course.

Printing your certificate

To print a certificate of completion once the courses are completed, by clicking on the orange “print certificate” button on the Welcome Screen (above the course list.)

VISIONING WEEKENDS

Congregations interested in the Visioning Weekends that are being offered by the Congregational Life and Development committee should have their Vicars or Rectors contact Fr. Brian Winter at St. Chad’s Episcopal Church in Albuquerque. Fr. Brian’s email is: fatherbrian@stchadsabq.org.

His mailing address is:

7171 Tennyson Street NE

Albuquerque, NM 87122

YOUTH COUNSELORS FOR CAMP STONEY

Vicars and Rectors be on the look out for potential Counselors among your youth and young adults (age 16-22). Camp Stoney will be interviewing candidates in the near future.

TITLE IV

ECCLESIASTICAL DISCIPLINE

Each Diocese shall provide for and publicize methods and means of reporting information concerning allegations of offenses.
Information concerning allegations may be submitted to the Intake Officer in any manner and in any form.
All communications and deliberations during the intake and referral stages shall be confidential except as the Bishop Diocesan deems to be pastorally appropriate or as required by law.

The Intake Officer for the Diocese of the Rio Grande is:

Ms. Karen Aubrey, Esq.

She may be contacted by mail at:

P.O. Box 8435

Santa Fe, NM 87504

by email at:

ka@karenaubreylaw.com

or by fax at:

505 986-8439

CLERGY Events:

The Rev. Mark Lake will be installed as Vicar of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Tucumcari, at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25.
The Rev. Dan Tuton will be installed as Rector of Hope in the Desert during the morning worship on Sunday, March 25.

Visiting the Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour.

Tuesdays are Staff Meeting Days, and those who need to visit on Tuesdays please make advance arrangements to visit the office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address

The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center

6400 Coors Boulevard NW

Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

High resolution Convention Eucharist Photo

The high resolution photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is now available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us and click on the link at the bottom of the page.

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule

Bishop Vono, in his first twelve months as Bishop, has visited nearly all the congregations in the Diocese. This probably is the first time a sitting bishop has achieved this goal. The visitation schedule is being prepared for the coming year on a more humane level of activity, and the Bishop expects to visit his congregations on an eighteen-month rotation to provide our bishop with opportunities to recover from his hectic schedule.

Lenten Retreat

2012-02-24T16:27:00.000-07:00

Attached you will find an announcement regarding the DOK Women’s Retreat scheduled for March 10 at St. James’, Mesilla Park. The Rev’d Canon Dr. Scott Ruthven will be the guest speaker.

Daily Prayer - St. Matthias

2012-02-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

After the Ascension of Our Lord, His followers at Jerusalem chose a replacement for Judas. The man chosen was Matthias, "and he was numbered with the Eleven."

According to a Greek tradition, he preached the Gospel in Cappadocia and in regions bordering the Caspian Sea. Tradition tells us he suffered martyrdom in present day Ethiopia, where he was stoned, and then beheaded.

Some parts of his doctrine were conserved by Clement of Alexandria. This sentence is attributed to the Apostle:

“We must combat the flesh, taking what advantages we can without giving it blameworthy delights. Regarding the soul, we should develop it through intelligence and faith.

Their sound has gone out into all lands, and their message to the ends of the world. Psalm 19:4

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Most holy and merciful Father:
We confess to you and to one another,
and to the whole communion of saints
in heaven and on earth,
that we have sinned by our own fault
in thought, word, and deed;
by what we have done, and by what we have left undone.
We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven.

Have mercy on us, Lord.

We have been deaf to your call to serve, as Christ served us. We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved your Holy Spirit. Have mercy on us, Lord.

We confess to you, Lord, all our past unfaithfulness: the pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives, We confess to you, Lord.

Our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation of other people, We confess to you, Lord.

Our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those more fortunate than ourselves, We confess to you, Lord.

Our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and our dishonesty in daily life and work, We confess to you, Lord.

Our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to commend the faith that is in us, We confess to you, Lord.

Accept our repentance, Lord, for the wrongs we have done: for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our indifference to injustice and cruelty, Accept our repentance, Lord.

For all false judgments, for uncharitable thoughts toward our neighbors, and for our prejudice and contempt toward those who differ from us, Accept our repentance, Lord.

For our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of concern for those who come after us, Accept our repentance, Lord.

Restore us, good Lord, and let your anger depart from us;
Favorably hear us, for your mercy is great.
Accomplish in us the work of your salvation,
That we may show forth your glory in the world.
By the cross and passion of your Son our Lord,
Bring us with all your saints to the joy of his resurrection.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life. Amen.

Lord, open our lips.
And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Lord is glorious in His saints: Come let us adore him.

Invitatory Psalm
Psalm 95

1 Come, let us sing to the LORD; *
let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.
2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving *
and raise a loud shout to him with psalms.
3 For the LORD is a great God, *
and a great King above all gods.
4 In his hand are the caverns of the earth, *
and the heights of the hills are his also.
5 The sea is his, for he made it, *
and his hands have molded the dry land.
6 Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, *
and kneel before the LORD our Maker.
7 For he is our God,
and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand.
Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!
8 Harden not your hearts,
as your forebears did in the wilderness, *
at Meribah, and on that day at Massah, when they tempted me.
9 They put me to the test, *
though they had seen my works.
10 Forty years long I detested that generation and said, *
"This people are wayward in their hearts; they do not know my ways."
11 So I swore in my wrath, *
"They shall not enter into my rest."

Antiphon

The Lord is glorious in His saints: Come let us adore him.

Psalm 80

1 Hear, O Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock; *
shine forth, you that are enthroned upon the cherubim.
2 In the presence of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, *
stir up your strength and come to help us.
3 Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
4 O LORD God of hosts, *
how long will you be angered
despite the prayers of your people?
5 You have fed them with the bread of tears; *
you have given them bowls of tears to drink.
6 You have made us the derision of our neighbors, *
and our enemies laugh us to scorn.
7 Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
8 You have brought a vine out of Egypt; *
you cast out the nations and planted it.
9 You prepared the ground for it; *
it took root and filled the land.
10 The mountains were covered by its shadow *
and the towering cedar trees by its boughs.
11 You stretched out its tendrils to the Sea *
and its branches to the River.
12 Why have you broken down its wall, *
so that all who pass by pluck off its grapes?
13 The wild boar of the forest has ravaged it, *
and the beasts of the field have grazed upon it.
14 Turn now, O God of hosts, look down from heaven;
behold and tend this vine; *
preserve what your right hand has planted.
15 They burn it with fire like rubbish; *
at the rebuke of your countenance let them perish.
16 Let your hand be upon the man of your right hand, *
and son of man you have made so strong for yourself.
17 And so will we never turn away from you; *
give us life, that we may call upon your Name.
18 Restore us, O LORD God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.

Gloria Patri

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Old Testament Lesson 1 Samuel 16:1-13

16The Lord said to Samuel, 'How long will you grieve over Saul? I have rejected him from being king over Israel. Fill your horn with oil and set out; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.' 2Samuel said, 'How can I go? If Saul hears of it, he will kill me.' And the Lord said, 'Take a heifer with you, and say, I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.” 3Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do; and you shall anoint for me the one whom I name to you.' 4Samuel did what the Lord commanded, and came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling, and said, 'Do you come peaceably?' 5He said, 'Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord; sanctify yourselves and come with me to the sacrifice.' And he sanctified Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.

6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, 'Surely the Lord's anointed is now before the Lord.' 7But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.' 8Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. He said, 'Neither has the Lord chosen this one.' 9Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, 'Neither has the Lord chosen this one.' 10Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel, and Samuel said to Jesse, 'The Lord has not chosen any of these.' 11Samuel said to Jesse, 'Are all your sons here?' And he said, 'There remains yet the youngest, but he is keeping the sheep.' And Samuel said to Jesse, 'Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.' 12He sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and had beautiful eyes, and was handsome. The Lord said, 'Rise and anoint him; for this is the one.' 13Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the presence of his brothers; and the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward. Samuel then set out and went to Ramah.

The Word of the Lord.

Canticle 14 A Song of Penitence

O Lord and Ruler of the hosts of heaven, *
God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,
and of all their righteous offspring:
You made the heavens and the earth, *
with all their vast array.
All things quake with fear at your presence; *
they tremble because of your power.
But your merciful promise is beyond all measure; *
it surpasses all that our minds can fathom.
O Lord, you are full of compassion, *
long-suffering, and abounding in mercy.
You hold back your hand; *
you do not punish as we deserve.
In your great goodness, Lord,
you have promised forgiveness to sinners,*
that they may repent of their sin and be saved.
And now, O Lord, I bend the knee of my heart, *
and make my appeal, sure of your gracious goodness.
I have sinned, O Lord, I have sinned, *
and I know my wickedness only too well.
Therefore I make this prayer to you: *
Forgive me, Lord, forgive me.
Do not let me perish in my sin, *
nor condemn me to the depths of the earth.
For you, O Lord, are the God of those who repent, *
and in me you will show forth your goodness.
Unworthy as I am, you will save me,
in accordance with your great mercy, *
and I will praise you without ceasing all the days of my life.
For all the powers of heaven sing your praises, *
and yours is the glory to ages of ages. Amen.

New Testament Lesson 1 John 2:18-25
18 Children, it is the last hour! As you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. From this we know that it is the last hour. 19They went out from us, but they did not belong to us; for if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us. But by going out they made it plain that none of them belongs to us. 20But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and all of you have knowledge. 21I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and you know that no lie comes from the truth. 22Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son. 23No one who denies the Son has the Father; everyone who confesses the Son has the Father also. 24Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25And this is what he has promised us, eternal life.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

Canticle 18 A Song to the Lamb
Dignus es Revelation 4:11, 5:9-10, 13
Splendor and honor and kingly power *
are yours by right, O Lord our God,
For you created everything that is, *
and by your will they were created and have their being;
And yours by right, O Lamb that was slain, *
for with your blood you have redeemed for God,
From every family, language, people, and nation, *
a kingdom of priests to serve our God.
And so, to him who sits upon the throne, *
and to Christ the Lamb,
Be worship and praise, dominion and splendor, *
for ever and for ever more.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Lord's Prayer

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your Name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those
who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial,
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours,
now and for ever. Amen.

Suffrages B

Save your people, Lord, and bless your inheritance;
Govern and uphold them, now and always.
Day by day we bless you;
We praise your name for ever.
Lord, keep us from all sin today;
Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy.
Lord, show us your love and mercy;
For we put our trust in you.
In you, Lord, is our hope;
And we shall never hope in vain.

Collect of the Day: Matthias

Almighty God, who in the place of Judas chose your faithful servant Matthias to be numbered among the Twelve: Grant that your Church, being delivered from false apostles, may always be guided and governed by faithful and true pastors; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

A Collect for Fridays

Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

For Mission

O God, you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth, and sent your blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that people everywhere may seek after you and find you; bring the nations into your fold; pour out your Spirit upon all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For Our Enemies: O God, the Father of all, whose Son commanded us to love our enemies: Lead them and us from prejudice to truth; deliver them and us from hatred, cruelty, and revenge; and in your good time enable us all to stand reconciled before you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For Social Justice: Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart, that barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease; that our divisions being healed, we may live in justice and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For Young Persons: God our Father, you see your children growing up in an unsteady and confusing world: Show them that your ways give more life than the ways of the world, and that following you is better than chasing after selfish goals. Help them to take failure, not as a measure of their worth, but as a chance for a new start. Give them strength to hold their faith in you, and to keep alive their joy in your creation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A Prayer of Self-Dedication

Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

General Thanksgiving

Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks for all your goodness and loving-kindness to us and to all whom you have made. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up our selves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.

A Prayer of St. Chrysostom

Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.

Benediction

Let us bless the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

Happy Birthday to Canon Raney

2012-02-24T13:53:00.003-07:00

Today we give thanks and celebrate the birth of Canon Raymond Raney. Canon Raney is a faithful servant of the Lord and works tirelessly on behalf of the Diocese. When you open "Together" it has Canon Raney's unique imprint throughout. We are blessed by his ministry. Join us in saying a prayer for Fr. Raymond and Linda on this most joyous day.

O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on your servant Raymond as he begins another year. Grant that he may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen his trust in your goodness all the days of his life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Picture at Canterbury

2012-02-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

One of the criticisms I receive from beloved Mary, Lisa, Toye, Arlene, Kathy, and Carol is that I am always taking pictures of staff and never publish a picture of yours truly!

Thanks to Diane Butler, I will do so. This was taken at Canterbury on Shrove Tuesday. I am pictured with God's greatest blessing in the Gutierrez household (and that includes my wife Suzanne) - our son Jude.

God has blessed my family in so many ways and Jude is his greatest gift.

New Issue of Together Feb/Mar 2012

2012-02-23T17:17:00.002-07:00

To upload the PDF Version:

the link to upload the February/March issue is

http://www.dioceserg.org/files/uploaded/docs/2_2012.pdf

The Beauty and Fun of our Episcopal Heritage

2012-02-23T16:57:00.001-07:00

Pictures from the National Cathedral and around the Country celebrating Pancake Races on Shrove Tuesday.

Shrove Tuesday at Epiphany Socorro

2012-02-23T16:48:00.001-07:00

An amazing turnout in Socorro for pancakes on Shrove Tuesday!

As Bishop Vono stated "I was flippin the pancakes!"

Fr. Woody in the Spirit of Mardi Gras

This annual event is now is becoming a tradition of our faith, community and the beauty of the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

My Saint Name Day - St. Polycarp

2012-02-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

Today I must celebrate. It is my Saint Name Day.

St. Polycarp of Smyrna. Yes, Polycarp is my middle name. So today, join in celebrating one of the early Church Fathers,

Polycarp of Smyrna (born ~70 -- died (martyred) ~155 in Rome)

Polycarp, Greek bishop of Smyrna (modern Izmir, Turkey) was the leading 2nd-century figure in Roman Asia by virtue of his intermediary position between the apostolic and patristic ages and his work during the initial appearance of the fundamental theological literature of Christianity. A Catholic Encyclopedia article is online at St. Polycarp.

His major writing, The Letter to the Philippians, is intimately connected with the epistles and martyrdom of Ignatius. About 110 CE, while en route to Rome where he suffered martyrdom, Ignatius passed through Smyrna and was warmly greeted by the church and its bishop. Subsequently he was taken by his guards to Philippi, where local Christian leaders visited him. After his departure they wrote to Polycarp requesting him to send them copies of the epistles that Ignatius had written to him and to several churches in Asia Minor. This he did, adding a covering letter of his own. In it Polycarp urges the reader to stand fast in the faith, to avoid heretical teachings, to look to the examples of martyrdom suffered by Ignatius and others, and to persevere in philanthropy and good works. He concludes by saying that he is sending them copies of the epistles of Ignatius as they requested, and asks them to send him the latest news about Ignatius and his companions.

By his letter, and by his widespread moral authority, Polycarp combated the Marcionites (from Rome) and frustrated their attempts to establish Churches in Roman Asia. That sect advocated a rejection of the Hebraic Old Testament deity for the New Testament God. He also struggled against the Valentinian communities, esoteric Gnostic groups that claimed religious salvation exclusively through their arcane spiritual knowledge. Polycarp's anti-Gnostic thesis, an exemplary statement of post-apostolic theology, refuted the sectarian argument that God's incarnation in Christ, his death, and Resurrection were all imaginary phenomena of purely moral or mythological significance.

Despite the proximity in time between Ignatius and Polycarp, as well as the obvious affinity of their spirits in Christian fortitude, one recognizes in Polycarp a temperament much less oriented to ecclesiastical polity and possessing a much wider acquaintance with the New Testament. Proportionate to the length of what they wrote, Polycarp has two or three times more quotations and reminiscences from the New Testament that does Ignatius. Of 112 Biblical reminiscences, about 100 are from the New Testament with only a dozen from the Old Testament. Polycarp does not refer to older Christian writings by name, but The Letter to the Philippians has quotations (of approval) from these writings:

In fact, The Letter to the Philippians is a mosaic of quotations from both Old Testament and Christian writings. The letter is important for its early testimony to the existence of various other New Testament texts.

PRAYER (contemporary language)
O God, the maker of heaven and earth, who gave to your venerable servant, the holy and gentle Polycarp, boldness to confess Jesus Christ as King and Saviour, and steadfastness to die for his faith: Give us grace, following his example, to share the cup of Christ and rise to eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

Images of St. Mark's

2012-02-22T22:14:00.001-07:00

Ash Wednesday at St. Mark's on the Mesa

2012-02-22T22:07:00.005-07:00

I had the blessing of spending Ash Wednesday with Fr. Christopher McLaren and the congregation at St. Mark's. A good friend and Priest that I have shared ministry for the past five years.

He is quickly building up St. Mark's and it was evident by the enthusiasm and those who attended the services at 12 and 7.

Fr. Christopher is busy building up the Kingdom of God on a mesa near the University of New Mexico.

Deacon Patty

Between the two services - close to 200 people.

Burning of the Palms for Ashes

2012-02-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

The evening concluded as Canon Carole burned Palms for Ash Wednesday

Eucharist, Friendship, Food and Prayers. A fitting end of Epiphany as we enter into our most Holy Season. Notice Canon Carole's helpers.

Additional Pictures of Canterbury

2012-02-21T21:26:00.003-07:00

What a beautiful congregation. The Kingdom of God is truly near.

If people want to see Christ and Community in the World. Come and See the Episcopal Church.

Winner! Two times over!!!!

2012-02-21T21:12:00.002-07:00

I was the lucky winner tonight. I contributed to the auction tonight. I offered to cook my famous paella dish for four people. It was put up for auction and sold for $75. Someone is going to have good food.

I won a second time. I found the baby Jesus in the King's Cake! Now, I have to host the Mardi Gras party for next year. As my son said "The Priest always finds the baby Jesus, he has an in with God" Ah, the thinking of a 13 year old.

Shrove Tuesday

2012-02-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

The Bishop was off to Epiphany in Socorro, Canon McNellis was at St. Francis in Rio Rancho. I had the distinct honor of enjoying Shrove Tuesday at Canterbury in Albuquerque.

I enjoyed an ecumenical service which combined the Lutheran Campus Ministry and Students in the Episcopal Sanctuary

When I arrived the hall was filling up and lines were formed for the Auction (proceeds to benefit Campus Ministries)

Food was prepared by members of Canterbury and it was delicious. A wonderful Mardi Gras/New Orleans Meal.

Picture of the Day

2012-02-20T21:31:00.005-07:00

A member of Diocesan Staff preparing for the week.

Bosque Center Update

2012-02-20T21:30:00.004-07:00

Construction is underway.

Keep checking back on progress.

Photos at the end of the Day!

The Vista - focus on Los Lunas

2012-02-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

Episcopal Church brand guidelines, logos, shields available at no cost

[Episcopal News Service] The Episcopal Church logos and shields featuring the new type treatments in both English and Spanish are available at no cost for downloading at:

http://archive.episcopalchurch.org/Imageshop_345_ENG_HTM.htm

The new graphic guidelines outlining important details for the use of the Episcopal Church shield and logos, including fonts, color palette, use of the shield, and important design information are available at http://archive.episcopalchurch.org/documents/TEC-styleguide-v5.pdf

The Episcopal Church Welcomes You signs are available for purchase from Episcopal Marketplace at www.episcopalmarketplace.org

Affordable websites for congregations and dioceses are available through the Office of Communication. For more information contact Jake Dell, Episcopal Church senior manager of Digital Marketing and Advertising at jdell@episcopalchurch.org

CPF Tax Guide Available

As part of CPF’s efforts to be wise stewards of our financial and natural resources, we are again providing the 2012 Tax Guide for Episcopal Ministers (For 2011 Tax Returns) online in a downloadable, searchable PDF file.

The PDF file has been posted on the CPG website. Go to www.cpg.org/taxpubs. Your accountant or tax advisor can access this publication here, too.

Given the possibility that Congress will make further changes to the Tax Code during this current legislative season, we strongly recommend that you use the online version, which we will update on an ongoing basis to reflect any subsequent changes. However, if you prefer to have a printed copy, it will be available in a print-on-demand format starting in late February.

To order a copy, go to www.cpg.org/taxpubs and follow the prompts. Please note that the printed version reflects the PDF as it is posted today, and will not be updated.

If you have any questions, please contact Client Engagement at (866) 802-6333.

General Seminary partners with Church Center on social media

[Episcopal News Service] The General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church is working with the Office of Communication of the church’s denominational headquarters on a new education program called Digital Formation.

The goal is to help clergy and lay leaders throughout the Episcopal Church appreciate the importance of understanding the use and effects of social media in the church as well as its theological foundations and implications, according to a seminary press release.

The program begins with a series of webinars, each centering on a different topic related to social media. The first hour-long webinar starts at 1:00 pm EST on Feb. 17. Interested persons may register at http://gtsdigiform1.eventbrite.com/ to receive podcast information. The program includes 45 minutes of content and a 15 minute question-and-answer session. The topics include:

Feb. 17: introduction to the church and social media;
March 2: social media as hospitality;
March 16: what to tweet about;
March 30: Foursquare and evangelism;
April 20: mobile apps for churches;
May 4: QR Codes in and around church.

SAFEGUARDING OUR CHILDREN

ALL CLERGY AND All persons who work with children or youth are required to take the training called Safeguarding Our Children. The training is available online. When enrolling you must choose to enroll under the name of your congregation.

To enroll:

Go to www.praesidiuminc.com/enroll
Enter the registration code: riogrande505
Fill out the form and click the link to enroll.
Print the page or write down your user login and password for future reference.
To begin training immediately click the first link or follow the instructions below to login later.

To begin training:

Go to www.safeguardingonline.org
Click the link at the bottom of the page.
Enter your user login and password.
Click on the title of a course to begin that course.

Sharing Your Events with the Diocese

Events:

The Rev. Mark Lake will be installed as Vicar of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Tucumcari, at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25.
The Rev. Dan Tuton will be installed as Rector of Hope in the Desert during the morning worship on Sunday, March 25.

Visiting the Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour.

Tuesdays are Staff Meeting Days, and those who need to visit on Tuesdays please make advance arrangements to visit the office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address

The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center

6400 Coors Boulevard NW

Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

High resolution Convention Eucharist Photo

The high resolution photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is now available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us and click on the link at the bottom of the page.

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule

St. Matthew in Los Lunas

2012-02-20T13:21:00.002-07:00

While at the Treasurers workshop in Socorro, I had the opportunity to speak with Fr. Robert Mundy and inquire about the new Sanctuary. He enthusiastically stated "stop by and see." So, on the way back to Albuquerque, I stopped to check on construction progress. See for yourself.

We are building! Soon, the Holy Eucharistic will be celebrated in our newest facility.

The Diocese is on the move.

Blessings to Fr. Robert and members of St. Matthew.

Treasurers Workshop in Socorro

2012-02-20T13:17:00.005-07:00

Treasurers Workshop was held Saturday at The Church of the Epiphany in Socorro

The workshop was held for treasurers and vestry members as week as for rectors, vicars, bookkeepers, administrators and members of the audit committee.

The turnout was excellent. Friends from across New Mexico and Texas were in attendance.

Epiphany provided a delicious lunch of soup and posole.

The workshop covered Business Methods in Church Affairs and Related Clergy Income Tax Matters.

Once again, Canon Bill Geisler shared his knowledge and experience.

Thanks to Lisa Katz-Ricker, Fred Winter and Charles Arms for their hard work.

Bishops Lenten Message on You Tube

2012-02-20T10:12:00.004-07:00

Bishop Vono's Lenten Message is posted on You Tube. The Message of "Hope and Faith" is appropriate in this season. Hope and Faith - there is a lot of that going around the Diocese. Enjoy!

The link to the video is:

http://youtu.be/eMIQWTAQ5lg

Snow Slam Pictures

2012-02-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

We received reports all weekend of the amazing time at snow slam 2012! Jesus, snow, laughter and community - what more could we ask for? Start planning for 2013. For now, enjoy the pictures and check back for more pictures in the coming days.

Welcome and Invite - Mission and Outreach

2012-02-16T21:02:00.002-07:00

The Diocese of the Rio Grande is doing exceptional work. We are called to invite people into our community, to seek Christ, serve God and one another. We are doing great things in the Episcopal Church. Send information, come and see.... Please email me and tell of the wonderful work in your hometown.

One great board is the new Mission and Outreach Board. It determines our funding goals and priorities for the year. We would like to introduce the Mission and Outreach Board:

SE Representative Mary Shepherd from St. Andrews in Roswell
NW Deanery Rep is Vic Rizzo from Holy Cross in Edgewood
SW Deanery Representative is Holly Truesdale from St. Christopher in El Paso.
NE Deanery Representative is Marilyn Farrow from St. James in Taos
At-Large Appointment is Charmazel Dudt from St. Mark's on the Mesa.

At the January Meeting, the Mission and Outreach Board funded the following programs:

Grace House in Carlsbad
Casa Hogar Orphanage
St. Mary's Food Pantry
Holland Rose Home
Casa San Miguel Food Pantry
Missioner to the Homeless in New Mexico and Far West Texas.

Find Your Voice

Find Your Holy Spirit

Find Jesus Christ.

Your adventure Begins in the Episcopal Church. Come and See....

Leadership Retreat a success

2012-02-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

Delegations and Ministry Leaders from across the Diocese met at for a day-long retreat to envision and plan for the year. The day began with Eucharist

Fr. Dan planning

Fr. Tim Sexton of Raton led the Retreat

Brooke discussing long term plans for the Youth and Snow Slam

Fr. Brian discussing the latest in music and liturgy

Jane Gober working on Diocesan Planning

Rev. Carole

Fr. Christopher chairs the Stoney Transition Committee

Dean Goodman taking notes

Diane, Deacon Doug and Dean Tom

Beryle and Fr. Rocky

Lisa KR

Fr. Steve. Enough said

Mary explaining..

Goals and processes for each ministry were developed

Fr. Ken

Fr. Brian taking pictures

Leaders broke into groups to discuss the various ministries.

Toye, what are you doing?

Deacon Beth

Enjoy the pictures - do you recognize the participants?

Marriage Encounter

2012-02-14T19:47:00.002-07:00

Dear Clergy of the Diocese:

We are revving up for our next Albuquerque Marriage Encounter Weekend, which will be April 27 -29, 2012. We need confirmation of participating couples by March 30, in order to confirm with the hotel. Therefore, we urge you to post this information at once and pass the word quickly. Thanks so much for spreading the Marriage Encounter message at your churches and serving as a point of contact for folks who might be interested in this wonderful experience.

We’ve found that several methods for recruitment can be successful. Some have pointed to short announcements or talks during the main church service or at adult education times. Others have said their most successful approach has been to target a couple or two and make a point of talking to them or having some other Encountered couple close to them talk with them. We know that just getting the word out in a number of different formats works – you never know when someone will see a brochure or notice the announcements in the bulletin and it will be just the right thing at the right time!

The supplies included in this e-mail are designed to help expedite promotion of Marriage Encounter Weekends in local parishes:

♥ A supply of brochures (is on the Web site) We will send brochures if requested by e-mail.

♥ Marriage Encounter Church information Talk Poster (attached and on the web site)

♥ The ME announcements for your bulletin or newsletter are on the NM-ME web site http://www.marriageencounter-nm.org/4436.html – as always, please be sure to change the contact names and phone numbers to YOUR names and phone number.

If you’d like help with in-church information talks, just let Don ♥ Joyce Scheuler know and they’ll set it up for you! Their phone number is 505/296-8279 or contact us at 505/890-4466. If you need more or different supplies, give as a call us at that same number or e-mail us at heartmus@aol.com. Please let us know by e-mail if you have accumulated a sufficient supply of brochures

We encourage you to take down the poster, brochure pouch and brochures after the weekend. Hold that material in a file at home or church. We will launch a new campaign in advance of the next weekend and send you new brochures to be inserted into your existing pouch if you need them. This will help reduce the cost of re-supplying.

Thanks so much for all you are doing!

Love in our Lord,

Douglas ♥ Dianne Bailey

LOOKING FOR A WAY TO INCLUDE GOD IN YOUR MARRIAGE?

Find out how on a Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend! Marriage Encounter is 44 hours where married couples can get away from jobs, kids, chores, and phones - and focus only on each other. If you'd like greater depth, growth, and enrichment in your relationship, you'll like the difference a Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend can make!

The next Episcopal expression of Marriage Encounter in Albuquerque is April 27-29, 2012. Married couples of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome.

An information talk has been scheduled here at ________________________________ on ________, 2012 at _______ to provide details and registration for the upcoming weekend. Couples interested in attending this information talk are invited to contact ______________________.

Military Wives Choir

2012-02-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

Bishop Michael continues to pray for our military personnel and their families in New Mexico and Far West Texas and wishes to share the lyrics and music with you from the British Military wives Choir with you. Our Diocesan Family prays daily for all military families in the DRG.

http://www.youtube.com/user/militarywiveschoir?feature=watch

The Vista for February 10th - Chama Vista!

2012-02-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

SAFEGUARDING OUR CHILDREN

ALL CLERGY AND ALL PERSONS who work with children or youth are required to take the training called Safeguarding Our Children. The training is available online. When enrolling you must choose to enroll under the name of your congregation.

To enroll:
1. Go to www.praesidiuminc.com/enroll
2. Enter the registration code: riogrande505
3. Fill out the form and click the link to enroll.
4. Print the page or write down your user login and password for future reference.
5. To begin training immediately click the first link or follow the instructions below to login later.

To begin training:
1. Go to www.safeguardingonline.org
2. Click the link at the bottom of the page.
3. Enter your user login and password.
4. Click on the title of a course to begin that course.

SHARING YOUR EVENTS WITH THE DIOCESE

The Diocesan newspaper wants stories and photos of your events to share with the other members of the Diocese. Please ask those with writing and photo talents in your congregations to assist you in spreading the good news of your church with the rest of us.

CLERGY NEWS:

The Rev. Guy Mackey of St. John’s, Farmington, has published a book addressing the foundational reasons for fracture among Christians, and providing a blessing path toward healing. The book, titled Communion: Meditations on Reconciliation among the Brotherhood, is available at: https://www.createspace.com/3726173

CLERGY EVENTS:

• The Rev. Mark Lake will be installed as Vicar of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Tucumcari at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25.
• The Rev. Dan Tuton will be installed as Rector of Hope in the Desert during the morning worship on Sunday, March 25.

SNOW SLAM 2012! February 18-20
Please RSVP to 505-983-5610
Registrations for Snow Slam 2012! Should be sent to

BERYL ZIMMERMAN, CAMP STONEY
7855 OLD SANTA FE TRAIL
SANTA FE, NM 87505

BISHOP’S SCHOOL FOR MINISTRY

Winter Session Classes

7:30-9:00 Biblical Greek, taught by Professor Warren Smith
9:15-12:15 Pauline Epistles, taught by Canon Richard Valantasis
1:00-4:00 Anglican and Episcopal Liturgy, taught by Dean Mark Goodman

Summer Intensive Courses (5 days each)
Preaching (to be announced)
History and Theology of the Early Church (Richard Valantasis)

Cost
$200 per course for ordained clergy and laity for continuing education credits
$50 per course for laity who wish only to audit the course

No charge for postulants or candidates.

Clergy may apply for diocesan Continuing Education funds. Scholarships are also available. Contact Canon Daniel Gutierrez (dgutierrez@dioceserg.org).

Make check payable to Diocese of the Rio Grande, note Bishop’s School

Orientation for the program will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, at the Cathedral of St. John, 3rd and Silver streets, for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance.

Contrary to rumor, the classes provided through the Bishop’s School for Ministry are not mandatory for Deacons. Information on the upcoming classes has been transmitted via email.

Registration

You may register online by sending an e-mail to school@dioceserg.org or by calling Toye Robertson at the Bosque Center (505-881-0636). Checks need to be mailed to the Bosque Center attn: Toye Robertson, 6400 Coors Blvd NW, Alb. NM 87120. Upon receipt of payment, participants will receive the syllabus for the course(s) and instructions for the electronic participation.

LAY LICENSING

Lay Licensing for LEM/Chalice Bearers will be continued from the previous year for licensees only. Other lay licensed positions are not extended, and are on hold as the Commission on the Ministry of the Baptized continues to develop the criteria and materials for trainings for other licensed positions. These include: Lay Pastors, Lay Preachers, Lay Catechists have not been extended.

VISITING THE DIOCESAN OFFICE

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour.

Tuesdays are Staff Meeting Days, and those who need to visit on Tuesdays please make advance arrangements to visit the office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address. The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande
Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center
6400 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:
The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.
Phone: 505-881-0636
Fax: 505-883-9048

THE BISHOP’S VISITATION SCHEDULE

Bishop Vono, in his first twelve months as Bishop, has visited nearly all the congregations in the Diocese. This probably is the first time a sitting bishop has achieved this goal. The visitation schedule is being prepared for the coming year on a more humane level of activity, and the Bishop expects to visit his congregations on an eighteen-month rotation to provide our bishop with opportunities to recover from his hectic schedule.

Diocesan Dates 2012

(Please Note: All Dates and Times are subject to change. Please contact Ms. Mary Jewell at mjewell@dioceserg.org to verify information as needed)

Key

Diocesan Meetings (Diocesan House unless otherwise indicated)

Major Episcopal Holidays

Major Secular Holidays

Diocesan/Deanery Events

Official CATO Visits (Gutierrez)

Official CATO Visits (McNellis)

Official Bishop Visits

February

8^th – Commission on Ministry

9^th – Commission on Ministry

10^th – DRG Leadership Retreat (St. Michael’s

and All Angels, ABQ)

12^th – St. John’s, Alamogordo

12^th – Church of the Holy Cross, Edgewood

12^th – St. Paul’s/Peace, Las Vegas

14^th – Investment Board

15^th – Budget and Audit

18^th – Treasurer’s Workshop, Epiphany, Socorro

18^th – 20^th – Snow Slam, Camp Stoney

19^th – St. John’s, Farmington

21^st – Shrove Tuesday

21^st – Epiphany, Socorro

21^st – St. Thomas of Canterbury, ABQ

21^st – St. Francis’, Rio Rancho

22^nd – Ash Wednesday

22^nd – Cathedral of St. John, ABQ

22^nd – St. Mark’s on the Mesa, ABQ

22^nd – St. Bede’s, Santa Fe

25^th – Installation (Lake), St. Michael’s,

Tucumcari

26^th – Christ Church, Hillsboro

26^th – St. Paul’s, Truth or Consequences

26^th – St. Paul’s, Artesia

St. Valentine Day

2012-02-14T08:53:00.002-07:00

St. Valentine

Patron of Love, Young People, Happy Marriages
Died: 269

Valentine was a holy priest in Rome, who, with St. Marius and his family, assisted the martyrs in the persecution under Claudius II. He was apprehended, and sent by the emperor to the prefect of Rome, who, on finding all his promises to make him renounce his faith ineffectual, commanded him to be beaten with clubs, and afterwards, to be beheaded, which was executed on February 14, about the year 270. Pope Julius I is said to have built a church near Ponte Mole to his memory, which for a long time gave name to the gate now called Porta del Popolo, formerly, Porta Valetini. The greatest part of his relics are now in the church of St. Praxedes. His name is celebrated as that of an illustrious martyr in the sacramentary of St. Gregory, the Roman Missal of Thomasius, in the calendar of F. Fronto and that of Allatius, in Bede, Usuard, Ado, Notker and all other martyrologies on this day. To abolish the heathens lewd superstitious custom of boys drawing the names of girls, in honor of their goddess Februata Juno, on the fifteenth of this month, several zealous pastors substituted the names of saints in billets given on this day.

The Origin of St. Valentine

The origin of St. Valentine, and how many St. Valentines there were, remains a mystery. One opinion is that he was a Roman martyred for refusing to give up his Christian faith. Other historians hold that St. Valentine was a temple priest jailed for defiance during the reign of Claudius. Whoever he was, Valentine really existed because archaeologists have unearthed a Roman catacomb and an ancient church dedicated to Saint Valentine. In 496 AD Pope Gelasius marked February 14th as a celebration in honor of his martyrdom.

The first representation of Saint Valentine appeared in a The Nuremberg Chronicle, a great illustrated book printed in 1493. [Additional evidence that Valentine was a real person: archaeologists have unearthed a Roman catacomb and an ancient church dedicated to Saint Valentine.] Alongside a woodcut portrait of him, text states that Valentinus was a Roman priest martyred during the reign of Claudius the Goth [Claudius II]. Since he was caught marrying Christian couples and aiding any Christians who were being persecuted under Emperor Claudius in Rome [when helping them was considered a crime], Valentinus was arrested and imprisoned. Claudius took a liking to this prisoner -- until Valentinus made a strategic error: he tried to convert the Emperor -- whereupon this priest was condemned to death. He was beaten with clubs and stoned; when that didn't do it, he was beheaded outside the Flaminian Gate [circa 269].

One legend says, while awaiting his execution, Valentinus restored the sight of his jailer's blind daughter. Another legend says, on the eve of his death, he penned a farewell note to the jailer's daughter, signing it, "From your Valentine."

St. Valentine was a Priest, martyred in 269 at Rome and was buried on the Flaminian Way. He is the Patron Saint of affianced couples, bee keepers, engaged couples, epilepsy, fainting, greetings, happy marriages, love, lovers, plague, travelers, young people. He is represented in pictures with birds and roses.

Blessing of the Waters

2012-02-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

The Rev. Richard Valantasis blesses waters.

People from the Urban Native American Fellowship gathered mid January at Holy Family Church in Santa Fe for a Blessing of the Waters, in solidarity with First Nation Peoples across North America/Canada. The prayer service, led by UNAF Coordinator the Rev. Deacon Doug Bleyle and the Rev. Richard Valantasis, incorporated prayers drawn from the Russian Orthodox tradition. The service remembered Blessed Herman of Alaska, the Russian priest and Bishop who developed a peaceful mission to the Aleuts, who remember him as “the North Star.” A font lined with pebbles from inland and ocean waters, and filled with clean water was blessed. The congregation, including enthusiastic children, and members of a youth group of Native Americans from Arizona, were invited to take vials of water home to mingle with local waters to spread the blessing and prayers for the cleanliness of waters, the wellbeing of all life that depends on them, and their right use. The service was followed by a joyful supper of beef stew and good conversation.

St. Chad’s Chili Cook-off

2012-02-09T19:12:00.001-07:00

Sponsored by the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, the parish of St. Chad, Albuquerque, held their annual Great Chili Cook-off on a cold winter's night in January. About 40 members and guests visited the serving line several times through.

After School at Good Shepherd in Silver City

2012-02-09T19:10:00.002-07:00

The Sixth Street Elementary School children enrolled in the Afterschool program at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Silver City take time to clown before parish volunteers. In the back row are (from left) Margarita Silva-Potts; Sarah Guck, Candidate for Holy Orders; Youth Director Heather McLaren; Deacon Tom Bates, Doris Steiger, and Margo Remmel. The program meets on 'Early Release Wednesdays' at the church parish hall and includes two 'quiet times' in the church itself, snacks, outdoor activity, occasional field trips to nearby neighborhood locations, and ends with a dinner to which parents are invited. The program began in September 2011.

Commission on Ministry for the Baptized Today

2012-02-08T19:15:00.003-07:00

The Commission on Ministry for the Baptized had a full day today. Once again our gracious hosts were the clergy and staff at St. Michael and All Angels in Albuquerque.

The members are busy creating organization and flow charts, determining the path to ordination and interviewing potential candidates.

Their work is filled with prayer and discernment.

The COMB (as it is affectionately called) spends many hours in preparation and follows it up with hours of hard work.

Grace keeps the members informed and in-line. We are blessed by her ministry

Thank the members for their dedication to our Lord and this

Diocese.

Meetings Rule the Day. Find out what happens in the Diocese

2012-02-07T20:58:00.001-07:00

In the Diocese of the Rio Grande, we have many places where we make our mark. It may be found on a mission trip, praying, speaking of Christ to a friend, or serving our brothers and sisters in a food pantry. Part of our communal life is spent in Church, celebrating the mystery of the Eucharist.

At times, we find ourselves sitting, planning, discussing - moving forward. As you know, Tuesday means staff meeting day.

Today, we gave reports on the construction of the Bosque Center and planning schedules for Lent and Easter.

We discussed the need to further spread the word of the Blog, the Website, In the Loop and Together

Help us spread the word to friend and strangers alike.

On the road, in meetings, on our streets - doing the work of Christ, help us spread the news.

Deputation Meeting at St. Michael and All Angels

Clergy and laity from across the Diocese will represent the Diocese at General Convention. This dedicated group of Christians have been meeting regularly and reviewing the numerous issues and decisions they will encounter during General Convention in Indianapolis.

The Deputation met today at St. Michael and All Angels Church.

Deputation representing congregations from St. Michael, St. Chad, and Hope in the Desert

Fr. Brian Winter

Fr. Colin and The Honorable Joe Alarid

Diane Butler and Howard Teschler

Fr. Brian Taylor

John Perner

Canon McNellis

Artwork of Our Lady of Guadalupe in St. Michael Library

Canon Carole

Mike Coburn from the Cathedral

We often forget the dedication and planning. Let's keep the deputation in our prayers as they discern the issues facing our Church.

Construction at the Bosque Center

2012-02-06T19:44:00.001-07:00

After reviewing bids, negotiating prices, and interviewing potential contractors, the Diocese has awarded a contract to construct the Bosque Center. The construction began today with a scheduled completion date of 1 September 2012.

Check back weekly for construction pictures and progress reports. Your center will be the heartbeat of Diocesan Life and the construction team is committed to stewardship of Diocesan Funds, quality construction and completion of a facility that will serve Christians for generations to come.

Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori invited to Anglican Provinces throughout Asia

2012-02-06T19:28:00.001-07:00

Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has accepted the invitations of Primates of Anglican Communion provinces in Asia to visit, address diocesan gatherings, celebrate Eucharist and preach during February and early March.

“I look forward to renewing friendships and visiting new areas in Asia, and I am grateful for these invitations,” Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori commented. “This visit will allow us to learn more about local context, the challenges and opportunities the Church faces, and explore how to deepen our partnership in God’s mission.”

Among her activities from February 9 to March 2, Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori will visit and meet with the Anglican Primates of the Philippines, Nippon Sei Ko Kei (Anglican Church of Japan), South Korea, Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui, Macau, Taiwan, which is a diocese of the Episcopal Church, and Iglesia Filipina Indipendiente.

Links

The Episcopal Church: www.episcopalchurch.org

The Episcopal Church in the Philippines http://www.episcopalchurchphilippines.com/ecp/

Nippon Sei Ko Kei http://www.nippon.anglican.org/

Anglican Church of Korea http://www.skh.or.kr/

Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui http://www1.hkskh.org/

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori http://www.episcopalchurch.org/page/presiding-bishop

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/episcopalian

Twitter: http://twitter.com/iamepiscopalian

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/TECtube

St. Mark's & Mardi Gras - Let the Good Times Roll!

2012-02-02T19:27:00.001-07:00

St. Mark’s Mardi Gras Celebration: Dinner, Dance and Live Auction

All proceeds benefit the Youth Ministry Fund

Saturday February 18, 6- 9 p.m. (or later if the dance floor is hot)

Don’t miss the best party of the year at St. Mark’s. Come dance and enjoy the live music of Entourage a Jazz and Rock one of Albuquerque’s most popular bands. We will have a delicious catered meal and a fun live auction of a few valuable items during the party. Tickets will go on sale for the dinner and festivities beginning Sunday February 5th. Costumes of all kinds are strongly encouraged for this Mardi Gras Party.

If you have a special item that you would like to donate to the live auction portion of this Mardi Gras Party please contact Heather Gaume at:

heathergaume@gmail.com.

We are looking for a few very nice items to auction off: weekends at a cabin, special art or icons, valuable lessons or experiences, or things that others would love to enjoy.

Dance with Fr. Christopher!!!!!

News from Hope in the Desert

2012-02-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

News taken from the Hope In the Desert Newsletter

2/21 SHROVE TUESDAY Pancake Supper. Two seatings at 5:00 and 6:30 p.m. with door prize awarded at each seating. Sign up sheets in the narthex. Adults $5, children age 15 and under $3, families $15.

2/22 ASH WEDNESDAY Imposition of ashes at noon Holy Eucharist & 7:00 p.m.

2/29 - 3/30 WEDNESDAYS at 6:00 p.m. Soup and Salad suppers by various groups. Will be followed by Fr. Dan's LENTEN TEACHING, a dialog with Dallas Willard on his teaching, "A Divine Conspiracy." Deacon Jane is preparing signup sheets for those who will host the suppers.

THE WEDNESDAY NOON HOLY EUCHARIST
By The Rev. Ruth Morgan

The Wednesday Eucharist is just as important to me today as it was when I had a secular job. I still get beat up, and I still need recharging to stay strong in my faith every day, not just Sundays. And I need to worship with fellow believers to remind me that I am not called to share the Good News alone; it takes all of us.

The Wednesday Noon Eucharist, as well as Bible Study, reminds us why we believe what we believe and why we need each other. Yes, we need our personal prayer and study time, but we also need time in community.

One of the nice things about Wednesday's service is that the sermon is a conversation between the preacher and the congregation. This gives everyone a chance to ask questions or make comments about the Scripture reading. This interaction benefits both the preacher and those attending as we learn from each other.

I invite you to attend a noon service on Wednesdays, especially during Lent, to share in worship and fellowship. Be recharged. I invite you also to attend the Wednesday Bible Study at 7:00 p.m. We need each other as we grow into the likeness of Jesus Christ. We cannot be Christians without each other's support.

Taize Healing Service February 21

Many of us have experienced the power of healing prayer through Hope's monthly Healing Service in the style of Taize (teh-zay). A quiet, nonintrusive, meditative one-hour service, it offers a chance for a private talk with God, as well as opportunities for anointing with oil, laying on of hands, and intercessory prayer if desired.

The church opens at 7 p.m. for contemplation. The healing service begins at 7:30 and ends promptly at 8:30. Come. And bring those who need healing in mind, body, or spirit.

Daughters of the King

2012-02-02T19:10:00.004-07:00

Save the Date and Register Early

The Daughters of the King women’s retreat entitled : “Joy Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Realizing and Using Our Gifts”,

Friday (evening), June 8 and Saturday June 9

at the beautiful Immaculate Heart of Mary Conference and Retreat Center, right here in Santa Fe.

Rev. Masud Syedullah and Dean Peggy Patterson will help lead us to an increasing understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the spiritual gifts we have been given. Holy Faith parishioners, friends and family are invited. Members of the Diocese will also be invited. Early reservations are encouraged as some advanced preparation from each participant is needed. Overnight accommodations are available for Friday night, but are not mandatory. Last year’s retreat was very well received. Don’t miss out on being a part of this year’s fellowship.

For more information:

Christine Williams, Retreat Chair 505 - 820-9323

Tana Bidwell 505 - 577-4364

Mary Dudley 505 - 989-1477

Asenath Kepler 505 - 983-7721

Standing Committee Updates and Meeting

2012-02-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

Standing Committee and the Trustees met today at St. Michael and All Angels. Trustees were given an update on Camp Stoney by Canon McNellis (The Summer program is being planned and implemented). Please know that Stoney is alive, well and thriving.

Updates were given on properties in El Paso, Roswell, South Valley and parts throughout the Diocese. Dean Goodman led the meeting that included the approval of Bishops in New York and Haiti.

Canon Colin addressing the group

Dean Funk from Las Cruces

Dean Tuton from Hope in Desert

Diane Butler emphasizing her point

Dean Goodman adjourning

Pictures from Council

2012-01-31T21:39:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council

2012-01-31T21:29:00.001-07:00

St. Michael and All Angels hosted Diocesan Council today. Members from across the state gathered for a productive and informative meeting.

The Highpoint was Eucharist. The voices of Fr. Tom, Cathy Bailey and Fred Winter gave life to the readings.

The Bishop, the Treasurer, Deans, and Council Members gave reports. Details were given on the Homeless Initiative, Bosque Center progress, and many activities in the Rio Grande. For details on the proceedings, please check back this week

A Joyous Night (And Weekend) at St. Andrew's

2012-01-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

A beautiful time...

Excitement and the hope filled the air at St. Andrew's for the installation of Fr. Plummer. The Bishop and I knew it would be a beautiful night as we walked out of the hotel and God painted a masterpiece sunset in the SE New Mexico sky.

The Charge: "We have come together to welcome Dale Plummer, who has been chosen to serve as Rector of St. Andrew's

As we entered the Church, the altar guild was busy, Deacon Bud was preparing the Altar Book, community members were busy setting up for the reception. I have posted images of the evening so that you can share in this joyous event.

Deacon Bud is going strong

Fr. Dale

St. Andrew's is truly a gem in the Diocese

The Chair for the Bishop

The Bible presented to Fr. Dale

The Body of Christ prepared by Ms. Plummer

Dale, take this bread and wine, and be among us to break the Bread and bless the Cup.

Dean Tom

Fr. Steve who selflessly served St. Andrews and Fr. Maurice Geldert (Artesia)

A true servant of Christ - Rev. Judith Burgess

The St Andrew Choir

Kensey, Fr. Dale and Sharon. Thomas is back in Kansas at School

I think this is the way you point a camera

Mr. and Ms. Beaty

A shining story of dedication to our Youth.

Sharon Plummer is a wonderful presence

As we departed, there was a jump in our step and a smile on our faces. This place is growing and exciting!

If anyone questions or asks how the Episcopal Church is doing - point them toward Roswell and St. Andrew's. A beloved Rector, new people are joining the congregation, a vibrant youth group (more tomorrow!) and a community centered in Christ. God has chosen this place as one point for the Kingdom to break into our Diocese.

If you are ever in the area, stop by, you will be amazed (p.s. invite someone to go with you).

The Vista for January 24th - Focus on Roswell

2012-01-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

The Vista

January 24, 2012

Sharing Your Events with the Diocese

Wondering what’s going on in the Diocese?

diocesan dates

At the end of In the Loop this week, please find a schedule for January and February incorporating meetings for Diocesan meetings, and visitations by the Bishop and CATOs, as well as Church and secular holidays.

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE 2012

Palm Sunday, April 1

Church of the Holy Faith, Santa Fe – VONO (8:30, 10:45)

Trinity on the Hill, Los Alamos – McNELLIS (8, 10:30)

St. Mary’s, ABQ – GUTIERREZ (8, 10:30)

Monday, April 2

Clergy Quiet Day/Retreat, St. Mark’s on the Mesa – ABQ

Tuesday, April 3

Mass of Collegiality – Cathedral, ABQ (10)

Mass of Collegiality – St. Francis on the Hill, El Paso (10) (Lamb)

Maundy Thursday, April 5

St. Andrew’s, Las Cruces – VONO

Holy Spirit, El Paso – McNELLIS

Cathedral, ABQ - GUTIERREZ

Good Friday, April 6

St. James’, Mesilla Park – VONO (Noon)

St. Paul’s, Marfa – McNELLIS

St. Francis’, Rio Rancho – GUTIERREZ

Easter Sunday, April 8

Cathedral, ABQ – VONO

St. Andrew’s, Roswell – McNELLIS

St. Michael’s and All Angels – GUTIERREZ (9, 11:15)

Clergy News:

The Rev. Guy Mackie of St. John’s, Farmington, has published a book addressing the foundational reasons for fracture among Christians, and providing a blessing path toward healing. The book, titled Communio: Meditations on Reconciliation among the Brotherhood, is available at: https://www.createspace.com/3726173

CLERGY Events:

Friday, January 27, 6:30 p.m.: The Rev. Dale Plummer will be installed as rector of St. Andrew’s, Roswell, New Mexico.
The Rev. Mark Lake will be installed as Vicar of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Tucumcari at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25.
The Rev. Dan Tuton will be installed as Rector of Hope in the Desert during the morning worship on Sunday, March 25.

SNOW SLAM 2012! February 18-20

Please RSVP to 505-983-5610

Registrations for Snow Slam 2012! Should be sent to

BERYL ZIMMERMAN, CAMP STONEY

7855 OLD SANTA FE TRAIL

SANTA FE, NM 87505

The Rio Grande Youth Task Force invites all our 6-12th graders to find your way to Santa Fe for a weekend of play, music, prayer and snow (hopefully). Climb (or descend) the mountain to grow in fellowship and faith with youth from around the diocese. Sunday at Snow Slam is usually a day on the mountain: as in the past you can ski or snowboard, or learn to ski or snowboard. New this year is an option to enjoy a crazy Scavenger Hunt game in Santa Fe. Registration fee is $100 per person, and this does not include ski/snowboard costs, details on the registration form. A flier and registration form were attached to last week’s In the Loop.

Bishop’s School for Ministry

Orientation

On Saturday, January 28, at 11:00 am there will be an orientation program for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance. This orientation will provide an overview of each course and test the electronic systems for participants. A lunch will follow.

Winter Session Classes

7:30-9:00 Biblical Greek, taught by Professor Warren Smith

9:15-12:15 Pauline Epistles, taught by Canon Richard Valantasis

1:00-4:00 Anglican and Episcopal Liturgy, taught by Dean Mark Goodman

Summer Intensive Courses (5 days each)

Preaching (to be announced)

History and Theology of the Early Church (Richard Valantasis)

Cost

$200 per course for ordained clergy and laity for continuing education credits

$50 per course for laity who wish only to audit the course

No charge for postulants or candidates.

Clergy may apply for diocesan Continuing Education funds. Scholarships are also available. Contact Canon Daniel Gutierrez (dgutierrez@dioceserg.org).

Make check payable to Diocese of the Rio Grande, note Bishop’s School

Orientation for the program will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, at the Cathedral of St. John, 3^rd and Silver streets, for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance. Contrary to rumor, the classes provided through the Bishop’s School for Ministry are not mandatory for Deacons. Information on the upcoming classes has been transmitted via email.

Registration

You may register online by sending an e-mail to school@dioceserg.org or by calling Toye Robertson at the Bosque Center (505-881-0636). Checks need to be mailed to the Bosque Center attn: Toye Robertson, 6400 Coors Blvd NW, Alb. NM 87120. Upon receipt of payment, participants will receive the syllabus for the course(s) and instructions for the electronic participation.

Lay Licensing

Lay Licensing for LEM/Chalice Bearers will be continued from the previous year for licensees only. Other lay licensed positions are not extended, and are on hold as the Commission on the Ministry of the Baptized continues to develop the criteria and materials for trainings for other licensed positions. These include: Lay Pastors, Lay Preachers, Lay Catechists have not been extended.

Visiting the Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour.

Tuesdays are Staff Meeting Days, and those who need to visit on Tuesdays please make advance arrangements to visit the office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address

The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center

6400 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

Convention Eucharist Photo

The photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule

Diocesan Dates 2012

(Please Note: All Dates and Times are subject to change. Please contact Ms. Mary Jewell at mjewell@dioceserg.org to verify information as needed)

Key

Diocesan Meetings (Diocesan House unless otherwise indicated)

Major Episcopal Holidays

Major Secular Holidays

Diocesan/Deanery Events

Official CATO Visits (Gutierrez)

Official CATO Visits (McNellis)

Official Bishop Visits

January

27^th – Installation (Plummer), St. Andrew’s,

Roswell

29^th – Church of the Holy Mount, Ruidoso

29^th – St. Matthias, Carrizozo

29^th – St. Andrew’s, Roswell

31^st – Diocesan Council

31^st – Camp Stoney Alumni Meet/Greet, Bosque

Center

February

1^st – Standing Committee

1^st – Trustees of the Property

5^th- St. Stephen’s, Espanola

5^th – 6^th – Clergy Women’s Retreat (Taos)

8^th – Commission on Ministry

9^th – Commission on Ministry

10^th – DRG Leadership Retreat (St. Michael’s

and All Angels, ABQ)

12^th – St. John’s, Alamogordo

12^th – Church of the Holy Cross, Edgewood

12^th – St. Paul’s/Peace, Las Vegas

14^th – Investment Board

15^th – Budget and Audit

18^th – Treasurer’s Workshop, Epiphany, Socorro

18^th – 20^th – Snow Slam, Camp Stoney

19^th – St. John’s, Farmington

21^st – Shrove Tuesday

21^st – Epiphany, Socorro

21^st – St. Thomas of Canterbury, ABQ

21^st – St. Francis’, Rio Rancho

22^nd – Ash Wednesday

22^nd – Cathedral of St. John, ABQ

22^nd – St. Mark’s on the Mesa, ABQ

22^nd – St. Bede’s, Santa Fe

25^th – Installation (Lake), St. Michael’s,

Tucumcari

26^th – Christ Church, Hillsboro

26^th – St. Paul’s, Truth or Consequences

26^th – St. Paul’s, Artesia

Heading to Roswell for Fr. Dale

2012-01-26T20:42:00.003-07:00

The Bishop is headed to St. Andrews for the installation of Fr. Dale.

Fr. Dale’s installation as Rector of St. Andrew’s ceremony and celebration will be this coming Friday at 6:30pm. Bishop Vono and Canon Gutierrez will be here to celebrate. Please come formally welcome our new Rector!

Check back for pictures from the installation

The Conversion of St. Paul - January 25th

2012-01-25T21:01:00.002-07:00

Collect of the Day: The Conversion of St. Paul

O God, who by the preaching of your apostle Paul have caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world: Grant, we pray, that we, having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, may show ourselves thankful to you by following his holy teaching; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Acts 9:1-22 (NRSV)

Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any who belonged to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he was going along and approaching Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’ He asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ The reply came, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But get up and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.’ The men who were travelling with him stood speechless because they heard the voice but saw no one. Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. For three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

Now there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, ‘Ananias.’ He answered, ‘Here I am, Lord.’ The Lord said to him, ‘Get up and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul. At this moment he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.’ But Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints in Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who invoke your name.’ But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is an instrument whom I have chosen to bring my name before Gentiles and kings and before the people of Israel; I myself will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.’ So Ananias went and entered the house. He laid his hands on Saul and said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.’ And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength.

For several days he was with the disciples in Damascus, and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’ All who heard him were amazed and said, ‘Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem among those who invoked this name? And has he not come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?’ Saul became increasingly more powerful and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Messiah.

Our Friends at St. Michael Promoting Events

2012-01-25T20:46:00.003-07:00

Moving closer to Construction

2012-01-25T20:45:00.004-07:00

The Groundbreaking was an enormous success, we have demolished the existing structure, the permits are in hand and we are ready to accept bids! We are progressing toward the earthwork portion of construction. We hope to have tractors rolling onto the ground by the first week in February. Keep checking for pictures and updates on construction.

As you can see, we are busy selecting flooring and fixtures!