The following is the November 2006 edition of the St. Andrew's Tidings publication. You may download a copy to your computer by clicking on this pdf icon.

TIDINGS
VOL. CL Xl • November 2006

PARSON'S PARAGRAPH
There is no question about it, time moves at the same pace, minute by minute.   Yet, children and adults are in two different time zones.   Time moves more slowly and teases the child: "how much longer?" and "when are we going to go?" reveal the child's perspective. The overall perspective of the adult is different: a week swiftly passes and seasons linger less. The wonder of a child is that it takes so long for Christmas to come; for an adult, that it is nearly here again. Perhaps it has something to do with the total package of time experienced.   In relation to a five-year-old's 1,825 days of life, 365 days is a lot (2 tenths or one fifth of life)!   In relation to a fifty-year-old's 18,250 days, 365 days is not so much (2 hundredths of life)!

The month of November will bring a close to the current church year.   We will conclude this season "after Pentecost" appropriately with a reading from Revelation 1:8, "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty . Then we begin a new year (Year "C" in the Sunday liturgical readings) with the First Sunday of Advent, December 3 rd (also our Annual Parish Meeting - see article that follows in this edition).

Time is moving.   May the gifts of our time shared as we worship, play and work together bless the Lord.

Faithfully yours,
Charles+ [BACK TO TOP]

ABOUT BEING A STEWARD
Thoughts from Emily Lewis, Chair of our Stewardship Committee: Here are some principals "new [to me] when I considered them in the context of Stewardship.

First, good Stewardship is about gratitude.   It means taking time every day to count our blessings, both large and small. Recently during our nightly prayers my two year old said he was grateful for his duck blanket and guitars. Little things, big things, everything that we have is a gift.   So often we become so involved in the rush of our daily lives that we fail to even recognize many of them.   If we truly believe that God is our creator then we must also believe that none of the good things in our lives are possible without Him. If we live our lives every day in a way that we truly believe is an expression of the gratitude that we feel for these blessings, we are being good stewards.  

Stewardship is about realizing and living like we are part of a greater being. When we are baptized we are marked as "Christ's own forever". We become a part of the body of Christ.   We reaffirm this kinship each time we take communion. The body of Christ, just like any other body, needs all of its parts to function. Part of the beauty of humanity is that we all have different talents and strengths. My favorite line from the prayer that the Stewardship Committee has opened many of our meetings with reads, "Help us to encourage the generous sharing of the gifts that you have so graciously bestowed on each one of us and help us to realize that each one of our unique gifts can fill a need for another of your children."   It is up to us to find and fulfill our particular role as a member of the body of Christ every day. Charles recently talked about recognizing the face of Christ on your brother. Being a good steward means also recognizing the face of Christ on ourselves and living our lives accordingly.  

We are not good Stewards by nature. Knowing how to put God first in our lives, the ability to recognize those things which lead us away from God, and the ability to love our neighbors as ourselves are all things that must be learned. If you don't agree that we all start out self-centered and easily led, I challenge you to spend a few hours with any two year old. Sharing unselfishly, loving others as we do ourselves, and loving God above all; these are simple ideas that require a lifetime of learning, and effort every day. These are traits of a good steward.

Finally, Stewardship is not about giving our ten percent or going to church on Sunday and then getting on with our "real lives".   Good stewardship is our "real life". It is using the life and talents that God gave us in every act of every day in a manner that fulfils the commandments of loving the Lord with all our soul and might and of loving our neighbors as ourselves. If we can do this, we are truly good stewards. [BACK TO TOP]

VESTRY ELECTION
Four new Vestry members will be elected to serve three year terms at the Parish Meeting December 3 rd . With the candidates written consent, nominations are made by members of the congregation.   If you are interested in serving, you may nominate yourself. Candidates must be confirmed members, in good standing, of St. Andrew's. Nomination forms will be in the Sunday bulletins until November 12 th or may be obtained at the church office. Questions may be directed to the nominating committee: Sandy Carter at 441-4353, Butch Luke at 441-5074, Joyce Pickrel at 441-5362, Robert Trivette at 261-9727 and Jay Tutweiler at 473-5939 [BACK TO TOP]

YOUTH CENTER REBORN
Three years ago when the new church was completed, new directional signs were placed outside.   Among them was one seemingly misnamed: 'Youth Center'. It directed people into the old parish hall which looked entirely the same, save for the fact that the old kitchen had been gutted and looked like a classroom.   Look at the 'Youth Center' today! The stage is equipped with an excellent sound system and ready for action. The 'Youth Center' has been painted and newly carpeted with sturdy, but soft and user-friendly carpeting (also enjoyed by the children of Parents Morning Out twice a week). The old kitchen now sports a popcorn machine for the masses and an air hockey table!   Foosball and ping-pong tables are soon to come. The 'Youth Center' and 'Youth Study' (Sunday School for teens at 10:15) are open to all in middle and senior high school.

VISION COMMITTEE
The Vision Committee will have completed their information gathering sessions by the time you read this. They are in midst of collating and preparing a narrative report for the vestry, which they hope to complete for the December vestry meeting. The completed report will hopefully provide a roadmap for St. Andrew's over the next few years. Thanks to all those who took the time to share their thoughts with us.

ACOLYTES
We are blessed to have such an impressive group of young people serving as Acolytes and leading our worship. Many recently attended the National Acolyte Festival at the National Cathedral in DC.   The following persons were recently awarded Master Acolyte designation at St. Andrew's and presented with a gold cross: Congratulations to Brian Brightbill, Charlotte Holt, Olivia Hurd, Megan Luke, Trey Luke, Arielle Pickrel, Laura Tutwiler, and Helen Woolard.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Food For Thought is an organization that provides food on weekends for elementary school children, who may otherwise not have anything to eat. This year FFT is providing food for almost 200 children in DARE COUNTY! What a shock to think that so many children in our community are HUNGRY! St. Andrews will be sponsoring children from Nags Head Elementary School. Volunteers meet on Thursdays at 10 AM to pack bags of food for the kids and then deliver them to the school. This is a new project for St. Andrews and we need volunteers. In addition, we will assist in fund raising.   Adopt a FFT child will be our theme, in which $200 will feed a needy youth every school weekend for a year. For more information or if you are interested in volunteering, please call Celina McGee at 619-1125.  It is sure to be very rewarding as well as a time to get to know volunteers from our neighboring churches.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Many are blessed and have received these shawls hand-knitted at St. Andrew's. The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets on Mondays in the Parlor with time for prayer and this expression of care for those who are sick, infirm, celebrating a joyous event, giving birth, etc. Contact Karen Sawin for more information at 599-1830.

CHILDREN'S CHOIR IS ALL ABOUT JOY!
The Children's Choir of St. Andrew's had its debut this past summer at Vacation Bible School and is now underway for the fall and winter season! Come to Sunday School and be a part of the fun and joy of singing in the choir. Rehearsals are announced in Sunday School and the choir sings monthly at the 9:30 service. Contact Lisa Gutierrez (475-1728) or Annah Petty (473-1594) for details.

FRIENDLY FREEZER
Help us stock our new "Friendly Freezer." Located in the new Youth Center's refrigerator freezer, the Friendly Freezer is our way of preparing a meal or two for someone who has a special need (newborn, family member in hospital, homebound, etc.). We aim to keep a small supply of delicious frozen food on site that can be delivered by a Neighbor in Christ or the clergy. Three standard recipes are on the display board located in the Narthex.  

Once you have prepared your food item, please wrap thoroughly in plastic wrap, then in heavy aluminum foil. Then place in a plastic storage bag made for freezer use.   On a sheet of paper list the name of casserole, a list of major ingredients and the cooking instructions. Tape this to the top of the freezer bag. We will transfer the information to Friendly Freezer labels. For information or questions, contact Claiborne Yarbrough at 261-4996 or by email at yarbrough_4@hotmail.com .  

YOUTH MINISTRY
Our Youth Center sponsored the Blessing of the Animals in October. At that service the offering received of $267.30 was dedicated for use in a youth service project.   All teens in middle and high school are welcomed to bring friends and join this growing, exciting ministry of our youth. On Sunday, October 29 the youth are dressing in costumes for All Hallows' Eve and will enjoy live music from the band "Now-R-Never" and a gripping testimony from Jeff Gray. Positive costumes, only--free food, prizes and drinks!   For more information on this or any other youth event, contact Luke McGee at 252-305-0211.

PAINTING OF THE CHURCH
St. Andrew's is getting a needed face-lift as the entire outer perimeter is being painted.   The funds for this will come from a bequest from the estate of Lee and Dave Doran. The care and upkeep of our church is part of the ministry served by vestry members.  

ALL THINGS ARE NEW WITH CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
An all new year is underway with Christian Education on Sunday. Not only has the children's and youth's Sunday school gotten off to an amazing start, there have been significant efforts to create interesting and useful classes for the adults during the Sunday school hour this fall and winter. We have started our Christianity for Dummies class, which is open to anyone at any point you can join us.  The purpose of this ongoing class is to provide an introductory/refresher course in Christianity and Episcopal practice of the faith. Sometimes when we have the opportunity to view our religion through the simplest of terms we gain greater understanding and faith. This course will be lead by Steve Sawin and Grace Wood and will be held in the Fellowship Hall. The same course material will be offered as a Bible study on Wednesday nights, at 7 PM.
 
Here also are some highlights for the Children's Christian Education program that should be mentioned:

• Sunday, November 5, there will be a special Christian education class for all of our children. We will watch and discuss the Safe Side (Stranger Safety) video in the fellowship hall.   Parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend.   For more information about this, please contact Claiborne Yarbrough at 261-4996.
• Children's choir practice will be held on 11/5 at 9 AM, 11/16 at 5 PM, and 11/19 at 9 AM. The children's choir will sing at the 9:30 AM service on November 19th.
• On November 19th our children will focus on letters to people who are serving in our armed forces overseas. This is meant to spawn discussion about what we are grateful for and why.   Finally, on November 26th, we will have an Advent Festival during our Sunday school hour.

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Children's Christian Education program, please call Claiborne at 261-4996.

COMMUNITY SUPPERS TO BEGIN

On Monday, November 6 th and every other Monday night thereafter Community Suppers will be held at St. Andrew's beginning at 6 PM.   As in the past, these meals are without charge.   The winter months may find you or a neighbor in need of a hot meal and/or good Christian fellowship. Bring a neighbor or friend in need and join with them at table and share the feast!   There is always entertainment provided and a time for giving thanks. Our kitchen is put to good use in this ministry and we welcome all persons, no reservations taken!

TRINKETS, TREASURES & TREATS - HOLIDAY BAZAAR

Our Holiday Bazaar will be held Saturday, November 11, 2006, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.

It will feature a collection of rooms and shops featuring art, crafts, antiques, jewelry, holiday items, objects d'art, cards, books, garden, plants, collectibles, plus "other stuff."

Also included will be a Silent Auction (12-1:30 PM) and an impressive variety of culinary delights (including the Brotherhood's Brunswick stew) for lunch!!!

Tickets will be for sale soon!

BRUNSWICK STEW

There is nothing like a good, hot bowl of Brunswick Stew fresh from the country kettle.   The Brotherhood of St. Andrew will heat up the kettles soon and sell their infamous stew at the Fall Bazaar (and the day before).   Orders are being taken.  

Brotherhood Reminder: the Brunswick Stew sale (November 10-11) requires that each member of the Brotherhood do a little preparation:  Each should prepare 2 chickens (i.e. cooked, taken off the bone and diced--no skin or bones, please, and the juices of the same, estimated to be about 2 quarts of juice--skimmed of fat).  This should be delivered to the church on the morning of Friday, November 10.  The Stew will be prepared and sold that evening and on the next day (November 11) at the Fall Festival at the church.

THANKSGIVING DAY SERVICE
Thanksgiving Day at St. Andrew's offers the Eucharist ("Great Thanksgiving") of God's peace as we worship. Come and share the Great Thanksgiving as we worship in the Chapel as a parish family.   Bring your neighbors and friends. It puts the right perspective on this sacred day dedicated to giving thanks to God. The Service will be held at 10 AM in the old Chapel.

ST. ANDREW'S DAY CELEBRATIONS FOR OUR PATRON SAINT
All are invited to the Annual Brotherhood of St. Andrew Service on Tuesday morning, November 28 th commemorating St. Andrew, our patron saint.  The service will begin at 7 AM in the chapel and includes the Installation of the new officers of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew: Derek Stallings, President; Dale Petty, Vice-President; Bill Deichler, Treasurer and Secretary.  New members of the Brotherhood will be inducted and receive their pins.  There will be a breakfast served for al in the St. Andrew's Hall following the service and all will be concluded by 8 AM. 

On Wednesday, November 29th at 10 AM there will be a celebration of the Holy Eucharist in the Chapel in honor of the Feast Day of St. Andrew.   The laying on of hands will be offered for healing.  The Hymns of Faith class following the service will feature the hymn "Jesus Calls Us" sung to the tune of 'Galilee' (in the Hymnal 1940).

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING BEGINS WITH COVERED DISH BRUNCH
Every year on the first Sunday in December, the church gathers to for a festive, shared meal and for the election of new members of the Vestry and our Annual Parish Meeting. Mark your calendar for Sunday, December 3 rd when we will have two Services (8 & 9:30 AM) and Sunday School for all ages (including Adults) followed by the Annual Parish Meeting at 11 AM. Bring a Covered Dish to share! The children will rehearse for the Christmas Pageant and all Communicants, aged 16 and up are eligible to vote at the meeting.  'Goals for Ministry in 2007' will be presented. The election of four new members of the Vestry will take place - a significant election as these people will serve during the time when St. Andrew's will be seeking a new rector.

LOOKING AHEAD TO DECEMBER & ADVENT/CHRISTMAS
First Sunday of Advent, December 3
•  Annual Parish Meeting & Christmas Pageant Practice Begins with Covered Dish Brunch at 11 AM

Second Sunday of Advent, December 10
•  Virginia Choral Society Christmas Program at 4:00 PM
•  Evening Praise at 5 PM

Third Sunday of Advent, December 17
•  Christmas Pageant at 9:30 AM with Reception

Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 24 (Christmas Eve!)
•  Sunday Morning Services at 8, 9:30 & 11 AM (No Sunday School)
•  5 PM Christmas Eve Family Service
•  11 PM Christmas Eve 'Midnight' Service

Christmas Day, December 25
•  10 AM 'The Feast of the Nativity' & Holy Eucharist