The Rector’s Page July 1, 2006

Clockwise from lower right: Baccalaureate Sunday celebrating our high school graduates, our Episcopal Church Women in the Parlor in front of the portrait of Lady Aubrey, the Fellowship group to The Da Vinci Code on the new accessible ramp from 1st St to the Clark Ave entrance to the church narthex, the Holy Baptism of Duc Tai Kurkoski (looking at the camera), the Commissioning of Lay Healers, and our clergy at the altar (also on Pentecost)

Click here to download a higher resolution version of the above collage (200 KB).

In July, we complete our ten part video series Living Faith (additional link), covering the essentials of Christianity.

Each meeting consists of a 25 minute video with Anglican bishop and theologian Tom Wright, followed by discussion among ourselves. Bishop Wright taught New Testament studies at Oxford University, Cambridge University, McGill University and Regent College for 20 years. He has written over 30 books and has received both academic acclaim as well as praise for the transparency of his popular writings. Christianity Today named him as one of the top five theologians in the world.

Whether you are a newcomer to Christianity or a cradle Episcopalian, if you seek a renewed, deeper, or more mature understanding of the Christian faith, please join us Sundays in the Parlor from 9 to 9:50 am.

Modern science has revealed a profound evolutionary character of the universe – and of life itself – which has shaken many of the ideas of God some people acquired in Sunday School. The American philosopher and atheist Daniel Dennett has written that the message of Darwin's "dangerous idea" is that there is no divine influence in nature, that the universe "just is," without message or purpose.

People of faith have often responded to such assertions by denying evolution altogether, or by insisting that the complex molecular machinery of life is scientific proof of God's direct intervention ("intelligent design").

A third approach to the questions posed by evolution is to accept the science of what biologists tell us, and use it as fertile ground for mature reflections on the nature of the universe and God. In this series beginning July 23 from 9 to 9:50 am in the Parlor, we will explore this third approach using John Haught's book God after Darwin. Dr. Haught argues that evolution is a "gift to theology," revealing a vision of the universe as a still unfinished creation, and a Creator who is the cosmic source of possibility, value, novelty, information and beauty. Dr. Haught is Professor of Theology at Georgetown University and Director of the Georgetown Center for the Study of Science and Religion.

  July 9: Living Faith #9. Growing In and Sharing Christ

  July 16: Living Faith #10. Living Christianity in the World

  July 23: God after Darwin #1

  July 30: God after Darwin #2

www.StJohnAdultEd.Org includes series information, our schedule, and downloadable prior presentation overheads or PowerPoint slides.

Comments, questions or suggestions? Interested in joining the Adult Education and Formation Committee? Please contact David Monyak: phone 651/481-8697, or .

  Duc Tai Kurkoski 6/4/2006

  Helen Halbert 6/7/2006

  Anne Gervais Rogers & Brad Michael Kurkoski 6/10/2006

  Barbara Kinsley Blien Rooney 5/30/2006

  Nancy Ottis Harris 6/3/2006

  Howard William "Bill" Harholdt 6/15/2006

  Nancy Warner Kammeier 6/21/2006

St. John in the Wilderness will offer Safe Church training on Saturday, August 26th from 9 am-noon.

To register please contact Parish Administrator Maureen Vruno, or 651/429-5351 ext. 10, or Youth & Children’s Minister Alison Feigh, or 651/429-5351 ext 12.

Your $10 fee covers the cost of your background check and training materials.

Deuteronomy 15:7-11

2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-15

Mark 5:22-24, 35b-43

Psalm 112

Ezekiel 2:1-7

2 Corinthians 12:2-10

Mark 6:1-6

Psalm 123

Amos 7:7-15

Ephesians 1:1-14

Mark 6:7-13

Psalm 85:7-13

Isaiah 57:14b-21

Ephesians 2:11-22

Mark 6:30-44

Psalm 22:22-30

2 Kings 2:1-15

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16

Mark 6:45-52

Psalm 114

The Vestry met on June 13, 2006.

Sale of the Haynes’ property in Mesa, AZ is complete.

Current property issues, including an outdoor storage shed, sound system for the church, cemetery survey work, and replacement windows for the parlor, were reviewed.

Amy Hawley of the Advisory Committee presented the completed strategic plan. The plan’s goals, actions, and measurements in the areas of communication, newcomers and laity, space, and policies and procedures were discussed in detail.

The following motions were passed.

  1. The Property Committee will pursue bids to replace windows in the Church Parlor. Costs are not to exceed $5,000.

  2. The Vestry accepts the Strategic Plan as presented by the Advisory Committee.

The Vestry meets next on July 11, 2006 in the Church Parlor.

Do you and your children need something to do this summer? Join us on Thursdays at about 10 am with your own picnic lunch. Children of all ages are welcome!

  July 6: Wedgewood Park, 211 Wedgewood Dr, Mahtomedi - North side of County Rd E , 1st street east of Century Ave / E County Line Rd

  July 13: Memorial Beach Park, 4980 Lake Ave N, WBL - Meet at playground, then we'll cross the street to the beach.

  July 20: Podvin Park, 1700 9th St, WBL (west of Hwy 61)

  July 27: Memorial Beach Park

If it rains we’ll meet in the church nursery. Call Beth with questions, 651/490-0477.

The Property Committee announces advance sales of niches in the St. John in the Wilderness columbarium to be located in the northeast corner (possibly) of our cemetery. Niches will hold up to 2 urns, depending on urn size. The cost of purchasing the right to burial in a niche is presently $1,000, including the last name etched in the stone of the niche door, and opening and closing the niche once. To purchase a niche or sell back your current plot, or if you have questions regarding the columbarium, contact Chris Hawley at 651/466-0599 or .

The Episcopal Church Women will clean the church kitchen the 1st week of July. Outdated & unlabeled food items will be removed. Dishes left in the kitchen will be donated for the Fall Rummage Sale. Church kitchen utensils are not for personal use; please return any "borrowed" items. Please claim dishes &/or food items as soon as possible. Thank you for your cooperation. Call Beverly Boyle, 651/429-6769, with your questions.

In the past four months, two groups from St. John in the Wilderness have traveled to Gulf Coast Mississippi to help with Hurricane Katrina relief. Recovery is slow in the storm-ravaged area and parishioners have been able to help many Mississippi residents continue to improve their situations after the devastation that occurred in August 2005.

In late February, a group of eight arrived at Camp Coast Care in Long Beach to assist with various tasks needed to help return the area to normalcy. Although the clothing and food distribution tents had been closed just prior to their arrival, the group pitched in to help in the medical tent, with cooking and serving food to the other volunteers, and working in the community to rebuild homes. Medical professionals, Rich Hovland and Bonnie Johns (of Phoenix, AZ) helped at mobile clinics though out the community, while Nancy Jagusch and her friend, Barb Foley (of White Bear Township) assisted in the medical tent on site. Colleen Johnson setup case files and interviewed people. Tim Schmuck ran the kitchen while Lowell Johnson and Sue Schmuck joined work crews in the community.

On May 11th, a group of five left from the St. John’s parking lot for a marathon drive to Ocean Springs, MS to roof the home of Adam and Catherine Gautier. The Gautiers have spent innumerable hours helping others in their community and had not yet repaired their own damage. Upon hearing their story, St. John’s Outreach Committee decided to send a group to help. George Gorbatenko, Bryan DeSmet, Linda Monyak, Ken Paddock, and Sue Schmuck braved the rain, wind, and near 50-degree weather (during which they reattached the roof rack several times) to drive 20 hours to the Coast.

Joining the group in Ocean Springs were Nick Schmuck, Brian McCann, Mike DiAngelo, Missy and Jimmy Landrum, and Michael Harnois. The labor was intensive, but Mother Nature cooperated with clear skies, balmy winds, and modest 80-degree days. In 2 ½ days, the group removed old shingles and sheathing, reapplied the plywood decking, and shingled the house. Besides the hard work, the group enjoyed a crayfish boil at the Gautiers’ and Cajun cooking at a favorite local restaurant.

For a group that collectively had very little roofing experience, the overall project turned out very well. The Gautiers are forever grateful to St. John’s for its help before the next hurricane season begins in earnest, and the roofers have yet another skill to add to their résumés before they begin work on Habitat for Humanity Homes in the fall.

Present: June Bennett, Liturgy & Music; Christine Karp, Children’s Ministry; Pat Pickering, ECW; George Gorbatenko, Outreach & Social Justice; Sally Holtz, Welcoming & Evangelism

June opened the meeting with a prayer.

George noted The Easter Vigil dinner was fun, offering fellowship with lots of good involvement. About $150 was made over expenses.

June reminded that each committee/group must submit budget requests by August 15. A purpose must be stated for each requested amount, and committees will be accountable for how budgets are spent.

Ministry Forum meeting attendance by a representative of every parish committee/group is encouraged. Ministry Forum provides the opportunity to communicate information among committees and the Vestry.

George hopes that Outreach will expand next year – possibly building a dormitory in Uganda for Bishop George Sinabulya’s ministry for women. The Bishop’s very informative May 16 presentation was not well attended.

Six St. John’s members connected with 6 others for the Ocean Springs, Mississippi mission trip . They replaced the entire roof of a Hurricane Katrina damaged home. They worked well together, and all are grateful for the opportunity. The volunteers provided tools and labor. The Outreach Committee’s sale of wooden crosses provided $385. ECW may contribute toward this mission effort. The group rented a van to travel together, and pictures are available on St. John’s website.

Christine reported the last Sunday School session of this program year is Sunday, May 21. About 38 children are in the program this year. First graders will receive Bibles from graduating Seniors during the 9 am Eucharist. A Bible camp is planned for the last week of June around the theme, "Jonah’s Journey." Volunteers are being recruited.

Pat noted the ECW will meet May 18 to review grant requests. The Spring Rummage Sale made about $1,800 profit.

George reported the Social Justice Committee’s current focus is affordable housing, and they have embraced Habitat for Humanity. About 35 people have expressed interest in Habitat for Humanity. A Fall project is planned with Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and Ascension (in Stillwater) and St. John’s. A kick-off with Habitat organization leader and a recipient was Monday, May 22 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Each Habitat project requires one week commitment of work and $6,000. The Fall week will be underwritten by Ascension and Our Savior’s churches. St. John’s ought to fund the Spring project, with money possibly raised by holding a dinner.

Sally reported that Welcoming & Evangelism hosted a newcomers’ luncheon and church tour. It was not as well attended as previous luncheons, but another is planned for Fall. Umbrellas were purchased for greeters (or others) to assist people to and from cars on rainy days. Welcome bags are available to give to visitors. St. John’s will have a Marketfest booth again this year. Volunteers are needed Thursday evenings to distribute fans, bracelets, and brochures. W&E is considering bringing a Dixieland band to St. John’s for a concert offered to the community. The cost is $1,250.

The deadline to submit Voice articles is the 15th of each month preceding issue.

The Ministry Forum meets the 3rd Wednesday monthly at 7:30 pm (except there is no meeting this July).

Summer is in full swing with Vacation Bible School in June, the New York City mission trip in July, and Episcopal Youth Music Camp in August. Here is where the children and youth programming has been, and how members can get involved to keep our programs strong.

I just completed the 1st school year serving as both youth and children’s minister. I've been on St. John's staff nearly 5 years, but it was only last fall that the position went full time with children's programming responsibilities and overseeing the nursery. I hope as our children and youth get involved in Families Inc. events, youth groups, Sunday morning education hour, camps, retreats, nursery care, and Vacation Bible School, that they learn more about the unconditional love God has for each of them in the context of our community who allow them to dream, wonder, and ask questions in a safe space

Having a group of Sunday morning teachers, led by Christine Karp, willing to ease me into my new role planning curriculum and overseeing their capable work in the education wing was wonderful. Thank you to Barb Van Steen who is stepping down after 25 years as a Sunday school teacher. Kelly Larson, Lara Delamater, and Rona Johnson have done wonderful work in the nursery to maintain a safe and fun place for our smallest members to explore. Beth Hyduke-Kelm has been very creative with the Families Inc. schedule, with a variety of activities for parents with young children to spend time with other families in the church. Parents and volunteers in the youth program and ministry committee, chaired formerly by Deb Schmit and now by Bob Peck, have been instrumental in retaining the quality of experiences we offer St. John's youth.

Our school year was full of moments when the children and youth experienced God's love in the context of a loving community. The Children's Sabbath, Baccalaureate, Rite of Affirmation, and Maundy Thursday liturgies allowed them to participate in corporate worship in a personal way. We had plenty of parish support as 17 of our members participated in the Northern Teens Encounter Christ weekend in Duluth. We honored 10 of our youth and their Confirmation mentors with a banquet celebrating the end of one journey and the beginning of their adulthood in the church. Following the Easter vigil Senior High put on an Easter Egg hunt for the children. Over 30 children and youth took part in our annual Advent play, both "on stage" and behind-the-scenes. Junior High continued their ministry to our college students, hand-making Valentine's Day and Halloween cards to decorate dorm rooms the world over. We made our 5th annual work trip to Camp Heartland. Four chaperones and 22 high schoolers, a record number, were involved in the Maundy Thursday all night vigil.

These programs are led by the Holy Spirit, but rely on the hands and hearts of St. John's parishioners. To become involved, please set up a meeting with me about how we could use your gifts. All volunteers with children and youth complete Safe Church training (the next one at St. John's is on 8/26) and a background check. Ninety-three St. John's members completed the Safe Church training since 2004, which is a wonderful testament to the value we place on our children’s safety.

Thank you to all of St. John's members who have given time, resources, and prayers to the youth and children in our community. We have come a long way in the last 5 years; I pray we continue to thrive.

Alison Feigh

The Vestry is committed to providing leadership and support for our parish through work focused in the areas of finance and property. It is not possible to measure our success without setting reasonable goals to guide our progress. While additional goals may be added to this work plan during this Vestry term or revised due to a need to rethink priorities, the Vestry has approved the following goals for 2006:

1. The Advisory Committee to the Vestry has been charged with development of a focused strategic plan for 2006-2007 to support our primary ministries and provide infrastructure for the Church. The Vestry has final approval over any recommendations made by the committee and responsibility to support and implement resulting plans. A final report is due in May when additional goals will need to be developed related to implementation. Final recommendation will be made to the Vestry June 13.

2. Assess need for additional clergy staff; analyze costs and recommend availability of funds for this purpose. Funding available 3/14 - assessment in progress.

3. Work with the Stewardship Committee to design suitable fund raising strategies to support the work of the Church. Committee formed; Pledge Sunday scheduled in September.

4. Establish a policy and procedure for the rental of Church space to outside groups. First draft reviewed 4/11.

5. Complete of the sale of the Haynes property and determine use of funds moving forward. Closing on property scheduled in June; discussion on fund use—Finance Committee.

6. Oversee installation of air conditioning units prior to the beginning of the cooling season in May 2006 as approved in 2005. Completed in May.

7. Ensure installation of the Church Security System approved in 2005. Completed in March.

8. Complete installation of a Columbarium approved in 2005, establish policies and procedures as necessary for operation of the Cemetery and affirm prices for the purchase of plots/units. Policies & Procedures approved; seeking survey company to complete work so columbarium can be built.

9. Approve bids for the purchase of grounds maintenance service as recommended by the Property Committee. Completed in May.

Follow our progress on the bulletin board inside the entrance from the parking lot, in the VOICE or on the website. Questions, concerns or compliments can be addressed to Therese Branby, Senior Warden at 641/ 653-3601 or . The Vestry is committed to open dialogue and communication with the membership of St. John’s.

1 June Bennett

3 Helen Jagger

3 Jennifer Kobinski

3 Jeanne Thoemke

3 Henriette Zierdt

4 Gayle Kasmani

4 Megan Titcomb

4 Barbara Youngblood

5 Benjamin Harding

6 Mary Wright Fennig

6 Sean Wright Fennig

7 Barbara Van Steen

8 Dorothe Eimon

10 George Hough III

10 Nick Schmuck

10 Krista Sullivan

10 Kenneth Whitney

10 Andrew WoiWor

11 Shirley Reed

11 Marc Senjem

12 Gene McAlister

13 Christian O'Brien

15 Randall Ban

16 Lisa McBride

16 Vimala Paulus

17 Jacob Korth

17 Joan Norton

17 Lee Wilson

19 Leah Ban

22 Emily Brunner

22 Amy Hawley

23 Harold Murphy

23 Amy Okaya

24 Lois Anderson

25 Geraldine Letourneau

29 Paula Beckley-Gildner

29 Brian James

29 Ed Linehan

30 Zachary Ban

30 Nathan Karp

30 Richard Larson

31 Javelle Eick

31 Christopher Hawley

If you have a birthday this month but are not listed above, please or telephone the Parish Administrator at the church office. Records are not always complete.

Thank you.

  Name Ashley Delamater

  High School Grade Junior

  School/Community Activities speech, school musicals and plays, GSA, Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, ECS: Ready For Success, school choirs

  Church Activities TEC, youth group

  Favorite Song Hey, Hey by Dispatch

  Proudest Moment becoming a godmother

  Collections pieces from different religions, inspiration quotes

  Favorite St. John's Memory playing the music for Good Friday services and this past Christmas lock-in

  Favorite Movie Ocean's 11

  Last good book you've read And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

  Best advice you've been given "Never let anybody tell you that you are anything less than wonderful."

  Where you hope to be in 10 years in residency at a hospital in Minnesota or near the college I decide to attend

  If you could have dinner with any person, whom would you choose? The Dalai Lama

  How can church become more youth friendly? Perhaps have an unorthodox church service every once in a while with contemporary music, structure and prayers. I know that for many youth it is difficult to sit through a church service. This could help show the youth that church is not about the structure of a service and particular prayers and songs said and sung within, but it is about being in community. This could help show them that this community will support and help them as they journey their path of faith.

Thank you to everyone who helped with Jonah’s Journey, our Vacation Bible School program. Storytellers, decorators, lunch providers, craft specialists, discussion leaders, and assistants came together and provided an exceptional learning experience for the children of St. John in the Wilderness. We greatly appreciate your participation.

It’s not too early to start thinking about the upcoming school year. If you enjoy working with children, have a knack with crafts, can carry a tune, or love to tell stories, we can use you! Our children will benefit from your willingness to share your faith and talents. We especially need strong male role models to get involved in Children’s Ministry. Please prayerfully consider if this could be a fit for you.

Please contact Alison Feigh (651/429-5351 ext. 12) or Christine Karp (651/653-6369 or allthekarps@msn.com) to learn more.

A group of Junior and Senior High youth are going to the Twins game on Sunday, July 16th after the 10 am Eucharist. We will meet in the entry way and head off to the game together. If you did not sign up by the June 25th deadline, talk to Alison about getting on the waiting list.

Camp is held at Camp Heartland from August 13-19. Camp is open to youth going into third through tenth grades. We have a good group going from St. John's, and it's looking to be an amazing summer. The camper list is full for this summer. If you aren’t registered but want to go, call Alison ASAP, 651/429-5351 ext. 12, to get on the waiting list. The final deadline to sign up for camp is July 7th, and we’ll inform those on the waiting list before July 7th if we can get you in.

A big thank you goes to St. John's Episcopal Church Women (ECW) and individual parishioners who donated scholarship money for our youth and children to attend camp. We really appreciate it.

The youth will run the church Market Fest booth on Thursday, July 13th from 6-9 pm. If you want to work the booth while taking in the fest, talk to Alison. We have been doing this for years, and it has always been a fun evening.

To download the July 2006 Lay Ministry Schedule as a PDF file, click on the PDF icon, or right click on the icon and choose "Save Target As" from the menu:

(47 KB)

To download the July 2006 Monthly Calendar as a PDF file, click on the PDF icon, or right click on the icon and choose "Save Target As" from the menu:

(73 KB)