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The Weekly Messenger
News of the Church of the Heavenly Rest
in the City and Diocese of New York
May 11, 2008 |
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Meditation |
| God's Holy Spirit is always at work. It moved over the waters of chaos in the beginning of creation, and it continues the creative work of God forever. God is not finished with creation or with us. There is always more: more to learn, more to be, more to do, more to love. |
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The Day of Pentecost |
8:00 am |
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Holy Eucharist — Rite I
Service with homily in the Chapel |
9:00 am |
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Holy Eucharist — Rite II
30-minute Service with homily in the Chapel |
9:30 am |
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Rector's Forum – "For Heaven's Sake!" |
9:30 am |
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Church School and Confirmation Classes |
10:30 am |
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Holy Eucharist and Baptism — Rite II
Service with sermon, hymns and choir in the Church
Sermon: The Rev. Thomas N. J. Synan |
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Coffee Hour will take place in the Narthex immediately following the 10:30 am service. The Good Shepherd Nursery for Infants and Toddlers from newborn to age three is available every Sunday in the Good Shepherd Room from 9:15 am to 12 noon. |
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Today is the Feast of Pentecost, the Feast Day of the Holy Spirit. In the first reading from the Book of Acts we are told of the events that occurred on the day of Pentecost following the ascension of Jesus into heaven. Pentecost was, and still is, a Jewish feast day. It was originally called the Feast of Weeks and was observed on the fiftieth day after Passover. (Pentecost is the Greek word meaning "fiftieth.") It was, first of all, a feast of the first fruits of the spring harvest, but later it acquired an additional dimension of thanksgiving for the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai. It was believed that the Law was given fifty days after the deliverance at theRed Sea. In Jesus' day it also came to celebrate the renewal of the covenant that God made with Noah following the flood. These themes – first fruits of the harvest, the giving of Torah, and the renewal of creation – would all have been on the minds of the disciples and the early followers of Jesus as they gathered for prayer on Pentecost, fifty days after the Passover and resurrection of the Lord. Luke reports that, as they were gathered, a great wind arose and tongues of flame descended from heaven touching all who were present. All were filled with God's Holy Spirit and they began to speak in different languages – languages of the many diverse nations and peoples who were present in Jerusalem for the Feast Day. The new community of Christ was born and the curse of Babel was lifted so that the Good News of God's salvation and love in Jesus could be made known to everyone.
(Acts 2:1-21)
In the second reading from First Corinthians, St. Paul speaks of the empowerment given by the Holy Spirit for the work of the Body of Christ, the Church. Different members of a community have different gifts and, as these gifts are offered in the service of God in Christ, the One Holy Spirit inspires and directs them. Paul makes it clear that the work of the Holy Spirit is not to enforce conformity of expression or witness, but rather to use the unique skills and talents of each member of the community for building up the Body of Christ, and for doing the work that God has called us to do. (I Corinthians 12:3b-13)
The Gospel reading for this Feast of the Holy Spirit comes from John who gives a very different account of the imparting of the Holy Spirit to the disciples. John seems to know nothing of the events on Pentecost, but rather he reports that the risen Jesus breathed the Spirit of God into his disciples on the evening of the first Easter as they were gathered behind closed doors in the upper room. For John, the gift of the Holy Spirit is a kind of new creation given to a lifeless group of discouraged disciples following the death of their Lord. In the same way that God breathed his spirit into a lifeless Adam, so Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit into a lifeless community. As he has new life in resurrection, so they now also have new life to become his presence in the world. (John 20:19-23)
The hymn most associated with Pentecost is the Gregorian chant, "Veni Creator Spiritus" (Come, Creator Spirit). This ancient melody is the basis of the postlude this morning by Maurice Duruflé and is being sung during Communion as a hymn. Duruflé was one of the most distinguished French organists and composers of this century and the postlude is the final movement of a set of variations on "Veni Creator Spiritus."
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Announcements & Opportunities |
 A Warm Heavenly Rest Welcome to the Rev. Elizabeth Garnsey who will be joining our parish staff in mid-June as a full time Priest Associate. Elizabeth comes to us having served another Manhattan parish for three years, and she brings with her a wealth of talent, energy, and excitement about joining the Heavenly Rest community. In addition to the regular priestly duties of preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, Elizabeth will oversee the total Pastoral Care ministry of the parish, develop new programs for the incorporation of new members, and serve as clergy liaison to our youth and young adult ministries. Originally from Colorado, Elizabeth holds degrees from the University of Colorado and Yale Divinity School. Prior to her ordination, she worked in the fields of journalism and media. There will be more about Elizabeth in the June Messenger along with some words from her about coming to Heavenly Rest. For now give thanks that we will have a talented and dedicated priest joining our staff and pray for Elizabeth in this time of transition.
What Do You Think? Last Sunday, the members of the Stewardship Committee held an open forum to hear parishioners' thoughts on stewardship at Heavenly Rest. The committee wants to listen to and hear from as many as possible about how giving for the support of our mission and ministry is perceived and accomplished. For those who were unable to attend the May 4th meeting, we are providing an anonymous comment option. You can submit your comments on stewardship at the Church of the Heavenly Rest by going to our website, www.heavenlyrest.org, and clicking on the Stewardship Comment button found at the lower left part of the screen. We welcome your thoughts, comments, criticisms and suggestions on what you think we are doing well, what could be improved, what you may have seen that works well at other parishes or organizations. The comments will be collected by a third-party data organization, and forwarded on to the church. We will not be able to see who sent the comments or the email address of the sender. Please participate in this important part of our parish operations.
Trip to 6 Flags for all Youth in grades 6 through 12: On Saturday, May 31 join your friends from other neighborhood churches for a trip to 6 Flags in New Jersey! Cost: $130. Reserve your spot on the bus TODAY!
New Rector's Forum Series Begins Today: "For Heaven's Sake!" Sundays at 9:30 am in Darlington Hall. The Rector's Forum for May 11 – June 8 will be on the subject of Heaven. What does the Bible say about heaven? How has the understanding of heaven changed over the years. What do people in other faiths think about heaven? What do contemporary theologians and writers think of heaven?
Attention all 7th Graders! It is time to start preparing for Confirmation class next year. Please join us for an informational meeting tomorrow, Monday, May 12 at the home of one of your fellow Confirmands. Please RSVP to Caren Miles at 212-289-3400, ext. 207 or cmiles@heavenlyrest.org.
AIDS Walk New York, Sunday, May 18th: Heavenly Rest is joining with other parishes in participating in the upcoming AIDS Walk. The collective Episcopal Response to AIDS Walk Team will meet on May 18th at 8 a.m. in the Gold Team area (Rumsey Field a.k.a. Summer Stage), about a block on a southwest diagonal from the 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue entrance to Central Park. After sign-in and breakfast, there will be an outdoor Eucharist (Barbara Crafton will preach!) with a commissioning and blessing of walkers, followed by the distribution of T-shirts and other goodies and the Parish and Team photos. We then will begin the 10K Walk. Tim Lively is our parish coordinator for this project. If you are interested in participating in this worthwhile and fun event, please contact him at 212-831-5349 or tml19474@aol.com. In order to participate, you have to pre-register. The best way to register is to go to www.aidswalk.net, click on New York, then on Register to Walk, next on Join a Team. You will be asked to select a team: just scroll down to Episcopal Response to AIDS -7881; then click "Continue." When the registration form appears, fill it out - being sure to put "Heavenly Rest" in the "Company Name" field. Then follow the list of instructions through to completion. (There is also a link on the Episcopal Response to AIDS website: www.erany.org.)
Canterbury Choral Society Concert: Next Sunday, May 18 at 4:00pm. The Canterbury Choral Society, conducted by Charles Dodsley Walker, will present Mozart's Vesperae Solennes de Confessore, K. 339 and Beethoven's Mass in C, Opus 86. Admission is by suggested contribution $20; $10 for seniors. Children under 12 are admitted at no charge.
Bishop's Visitation: Sunday, May 25 at the 10:30 am service. We are delighted that The Rt. Rev. E. Don Taylor, Vicar Bishop of New York City, will be with us on Sunday, May 25 at the 10:30 am service to Celebrate, Preach, Confirm, and Baptize. Please plan to be present to welcome Bishop Taylor and to support our young people and adults who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. It will truly be a joyful day.
And Who Will Bring the Green Bean Casserole? Friday Fling, May 30 at 7:00 pm. The Rileys are back and they're going to have a party! Jim and Holly Riley have returned from the Deep South and will host the May Fling. So plan on spending the evening of May 30 on the Riley's roof garden. RSVP to the Rileys at 646-351-6965 or jwr3nyc@gmail.com.
Recognition Sunday: Sunday, June 1 at 9:30 am in the Chapel. Please plan to attend the Recognition ceremony where all children, youth and teachers will be recognized for their participation in Church School throughout the year. Pins will be awarded to children and youth who have attended Church School and/or Youth Group at least once a month. Come show your support for your family's commitment, and come show your appreciation for the time that the teachers have dedicated to the spiritual formation of Heavenly Rest's children and youth.
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Events at House of the Redeemer
7 East 95th Street
Call 212-289-0399 for reservations and information. |
Fabbri Chamber Concert: This coming Tuesday, May 13 at 8:00 pm. This concert, featuring Marcella Calabi, soprano, Bryan Appleby-Wineberg, trumpet, and Kazuko Hayami, piano, will include works by Scarlatti, Purcell, Schubert and Friedman. Tickets are $30, $15 for students.
The Psalms, A Reflection on Daily Living: Tuesday, May 20 from 10:00 am-2:00 pm. During this quiet day Bishop Harry W. Shipps will explore the 150 songs that embody all the frustrations, grief and anger, as well as joys and celebrations, that are common to humankind today. What the Psalmist reflects in song is worthy of our daily meditation. Reservations are required. Lunch included. Fee: $25.
Annual Garden Party and Auction: Wednesday, June 4, 6:00 pm. The House of the Redeemer is having its Annual Garden Party and Auction on Wednesday, June 4, from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm, and extends an invitation to all for this festive event. The Garden Party features wine, canapes, music and some wonderful live and silent auction opportunities. And this year, again, there will be beautiful plants for sale. Spring hats are welcome. In addition to being an enjoyable event, the Garden Party raises funds for the restoration of the very special furnishings and art work of the House of the Redeemer. Tickets start at $75, with special pricing of $50 for those under 30. Please contact Janet Robertson at 212 772-5240 or call the House of the Redeemer at 212-289-0399, or e-mail info@houseoftheredeemer.org for more information.
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Visit our Welcome Table in the Narthex where members of our Welcome Committee can provide you with information about our Parish Programs and answer any questions you may have. Just look for the blue Church of the Heavenly Rest Banner on Sunday Mornings; the Welcome Table will be there.
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Fun at Lunchtime! Dedicated volunteers are needed for our Friday Senior Lunch Program. Help turn Darlington Hall into a café by setting decorative tables, serving a catered buffet lunch, clearing disposable plates, and mingling with diners. Lead post-meal rounds of Bingo as guests play to win back their $1.00 lunch tab! This outreach brings needed opportunity for socialization and enjoyment, as well as tasty and nutritious meals, to our neighborhood elderly. If you can commit one Friday per month from 12:30 pm -2:30 pm, please join this important fellowship. Contact the Rev. Tom Synan at 212-289-3400, ext. 214 or by email at tsynan@heavenlyrest.org.
CHR Shelter: The church provides shelter to pre-selected elderly guests Monday through Thursday. Volunteers are needed to welcome and supervise guests for the night. Volunteer Coordinator: Marilyn Budzanoski, 212-663-7923. |
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This Week at Heavenly Rest |
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MONDAY, May 12
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6:30 pm |
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Informational Meeting for Confirmation Class of 2009 |
7:00 pm |
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Alanon meets in the Music Room |
7:00 pm |
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A.A. meets in Darlington Hall and Thomas Hall |
7:30 pm |
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Canterbury Choral Society Rehearsal in the Church |
8:00 pm |
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Shelter in the Narthex |
Tuesday, May 13
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7:30 am |
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Men's Breakfast Group meets at 3 Guys' Restaurant |
12:00 pm |
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A.A. meets in the Cloister |
3:30 pm |
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St. Cecilia Choir in the Choir Room |
4:15 pm |
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Choristers in the Choir Room |
8:00 pm |
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Shelter in the Narthex |
Wednesday, May 14
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9:00 am |
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Mary Anne Hall's Music for Children Classes |
12:00 pm |
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Holy Eucharist in the Chapel |
6:30 pm |
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Holy Eucharist and Service of Healing in the Chapel |
8:00 pm |
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Shelter in the Narthex |
Thursday, May 15
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9:00 am |
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Mary Anne Hall's Music for Children Classes |
12:00 pm |
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A.A. meets in the Cloister |
7:00 pm |
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Alanon meets in the Music Room |
7:00 pm |
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A.A. meets in Thomas Hall |
7:00 pm |
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Education for Ministry meets in the Choir Room |
8:00 pm |
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Shelter in the Narthex |
Friday, May 16
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9:00 am |
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Bible Study in the Choir Room |
10:00 am |
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Parents and Babies Group meets in the Good Shepherd Room |
1:30 pm |
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Friday Lunch for Senior Citizens in Darlington Hall |
7:00 pm |
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Canterbury Choral Society Rehearsal in the Church |
Saturday, May 17
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9:00 am |
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Yorkville Common Pantry Workday for 6th - 12th Graders |
10:00 am |
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Canterbury Choral Society Rehearsal in the Church |
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Next Sunday — May 18
Trinity Sunday |
8:00 am |
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Holy Eucharist — Rite I
Service with homily in the Chapel |
9:00 am |
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Holy Eucharist — Rite II
30-minute Service with homily in the Chapel |
9:30 am |
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Church School and Confirmation Classes |
9:30 am |
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Rector's Forum in Darlington Hall – "For Heaven's Sake!" |
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Holy Eucharist — Rite II
Service with sermon, hymns and choir in the Church
Sermon: The Rev. James L. Burns – "Doing the Math" |
4:00 pm |
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Canterbury Choral Society Concert in the Church |
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The Church has been asked to pray for these people and concerns.
Please remember them in your own prayers.
Michael Warner; Nell Callen; Matthew Mortimer; Murray Schron; Arlene Rubinson; Frank Hilke; Jesse Vasquez; Christopher Challancin; Emily; Phil VanderNaald; Mike & Martha; Jamie Fargo Balliet; Irene Gordon; Tommy Mitchell; Sarah; Aaron; Anna; Tina Zimmerman; Reggie; Tony Denin; Jeff Cook; Debby Berniker; Douglas Williams; Jennifer Sandoval; Ann Hall; Ann Haigney Roome; Roberta Connolly; Billie VanderNaald; Becca; Bill Vericker; Lela; Wendy; Susan; Sgt.Tim Donoho; Ward; Isabelle Hallam; Dan Umansky; Edward Toohey; Jack & Holly; Sarah Cameron; Marie Miller; Lt Pat Vardaro; Lt Scott Quilty; Lt Ferris Butler; Tony Langella; William Meredith; Mary Lou Huckaby; Diego Vaca and Family; Christopher McCulloh; Paulino Morales; Forrest Church; Stavros; Carolyn Berger; Michael Bayko; Cruger Fowler, Jr.; Mike Keady; Lucy; Laurie Manton; Sam and Mary Parkman; James and Maxine McConnell; Christina and David.; Berenice M. Maguire; Marilou Goeb; Ruth DuBois; Ira; Donald; the Taylor family; Debi.; Robert Wright; Mary Dwyer; Ann Brewster Jones; Charles Downes; Henrietta von Moy; Debbie Kramer; Christopher Cronson; Rochelle; Susan K. Johnson; Miles; Ed Huckaby; Barry Winters; Hazel Giannetto.
For the repose of the souls of: Lance Corporal Jordan C. Haerter; Sergeant Guadalupe Cervantes Ramirez; Corporal Jonathan T. Yale; Specialist Steven J. Christofferson; Private Ronald R. Harrison; Sergeant Adam J. Kohlhaas; First Lieutenant Matthew R. Vandergrift; and Specialist David P. McCormick.
Please note that prayers are offered for a period of four weeks for those placed on our Intercessions list. After four weeks, names are automatically removed from the list unless the church office is notified that prayers are requested for an extended period of time.
Please send your prayer requests to kvalentin@heavenlyrest.org. |
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Order of St. Luke – "A Ministry of Healing"
Each Sunday, while the Eucharist is being served, CHR's members of OSL pray in the Chapel. They are present to individually pray, with the laying on of hands, for and with all who come with special requests for healing. God is able to do much more then we can imagine, so why not avail yourself of this wonderful grace and come to be prayed for. OSL will be present in the Chapel, ready to welcome and pray for you; do come.
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