Passing of a Parishioner

It is with a heavy heart, but also in the sure and certain hope of the resurrection that I announce yesterday's passing of Luke Leavengood, son of Robin and Ian Leavengood, brother of Vivian Leavengood, into eternal life.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.  In the meantime, please continue to surround Luke and everyone he loves with your prayers, granting the family privacy at this difficult time.

For those who may be struggling with how to react in a healthy way to the needs of children at this time, I'd like to share the advice Fred Rogers gave me many years ago in regards to my own young son: When death comes, more than anything else, young children need to know that there are still people to care for them.  Above all else, they need to know that they are safe and loved.

I'd also like to share an observation made by the chaplain at All Children's Hospital, who told me that "St. Thomas is a strong, wide net."  Let us grow into that image for one another, knowing that it is one of the gifts Luke has given us.  

I know I speak of behalf of Father John as well when I remind you that we are available to care for you, not only during crisis, but in the time to come.

The Rev. Lisa B. Hamilton

Associate Priest

Advent begins this Sunday, December 2nd

Advent has arrived.  Amiss the hustle and bustle join us to reflect and renew. 

Season Of Advent at St. Thomas

Adult Offerings

Silent Saturdays

7 a.m. Centering Prayer

Sanctuary

begins Sat. Dec. 8th

 Christmas Isn’t your Birthday

By  Mike Slaughter

Are you wondering where the

focus of Christ has gone? This will inspire you to find out!

Check out this exchange by logging on to comeseestthomas.blogspot.com

Begins Monday Dec. 3rd

For the Family…..

Slow Down, Quiet! It’s Advent!

Thoughtful, interactive calendar for reflection and devotion. Available through Sunday School both Worship areas & in the church office.

Just for the Kids...

Both Sunday School & Godly Play will run a 4 wk Advent series with

activities and outings.

The Passing of a Parishioner

Dear Parishioners,

It is with sadness but also in the sure and certain hope of the resurrection that I inform you that Judy Goodwin, mother of Sonja Stiles, entered into eternal life Wednesday, November 28th. 

We will notify everyone when we have the date and time.

With hope in Christ,

Pam Holley

Weekly Events at St. Thomas

 

Hello Everyone,

Here’s your weekly reminder of all the programs, services and events at St. Thomas during the next several days.  Please take particular notice of all events in colored print.

 

PECANS ARE IN!!!

If you have ordered or wish to purchase pecans

please pick them up from the church office. 

 

ANGEL TREE

Each year, St. Thomas generously provides Christmas gifts for each family member at Resurrection House.  You will see the Angel Tree outside of church on Sundays near the fountain in the garden or in the Church office during the week until the deadline, Monday, Dec. 17^th.   Resurrection House greatly appreciates your thoughtfulness and prayers.  Any questions? 

 Call Vicky Steinwender 727-480-1614 (cell) or 727-898-8919.

 

 VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION

Sunday, December 2nd

Volunteers will be honored during all Services.

 

 “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

Blessing of the Crib

RECEPTION

Please bring your favorite holiday goodie, savory or sweet, on your

own  holiday platter to the kitchen on Sunday Dec. 9th any time

before 9 a.m.  Please label your platter with your name on a

piece of tape and plan to take it home after the reception.

 

CHRISTMAS SERVICE SCHEDULE

Monday, December 24^th

4 p.m. “A Jazzy Little Christmas”

Harmony Service

 

8 p.m. Full Choral Eucharist

In the Sanctuary

 

Tuesday, December 25^th

12 Noon Eucharist with Hymns

In the Sanctuary

 

KITCHEN CLEAN-UP

 There are dishes behind the screens in the Parish Hall

that have been left behind from various events.

Please check to see if anything belongs to you.  These items

 will be donated if they are not picked up.  

COOKIES AND CAROLING

Sunday, December 16^th

We are visiting Shore Acres Nursing facility

at 9:45 a.m.  Meet in the Parish Hall.  All ages invited.

 

ALMS FOR THE VICTIMS OF SANDY

One of the principles of a faith community is helping others in a time of need.  The second commandment is, “love thy neighbor as thyself.”  To this end, we are called to be generous in aiding our brothers and sisters that were victims of Hurricane Sandy.   The “Episcopal Relief and Development Sandy Response Fund” is focused on providing rapid response to assist in putting neighborhoods back together so people can get on with their lives.   In the past, we have experienced the massive damage that Hurricanes Katrina and Charlie brought and know the disruption, frustration, and hopelessness these disasters bring.  Saint Thomas sent teams to assist victims after Katrina in New Orleans.  While this is a noble and satisfying experience, in this situation, it is impractical. 

 

Our outreach in this emergency is providing funds for response and rehabilitation; this is the most efficient way to help.  Please pray for the victims that they are provided with all that is necessary and that they are treated respectfully.  Your donations will help them get back on their feet.  Funds will be received through November 30th; make your check out to Saint Thomas with a note that it is for the Episcopal Relief and Development Sandy Response Fund.   We appreciate your consideration for this appeal.

 Thank you.

Sincerely,

Walt Jaap, Warden

 

Tuesday, November 27th

Centering Prayer meets tonight at 6—6:45 p.m.  Come to the Sanctuary at 6 p.m. to experience the “peace that surpasses all understanding” through the silence of Centering Prayer.

Wednesday, November 28th

Men’s Bible Study is at 7 a.m. in the Guild Room.
The Holy Eucharist is at 12 noon in the Chapel.
Pageant Choir Rehearsal is at 4:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.
Supper, Song & Prayer is in the Parish Hall beginning at 6 p.m.  Yolando Giovannetti will be our speaker.  Please support Yolando with your prayers and presence.   Everyone is welcome!
Godly Play is at 6:30 p.m. in the Library.  Godly Play is for Pre-K thru 5^th grade children. We will explore “The Holy Family.”
Youth Group meets at 6:30 p.m. in the Youth Room.
Handbells is at 7:30 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Thursday, November 29th

Chancel Choir Rehearsal is at 6:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.

Friday, November 30thl

Holy Folders are at 10 a.m. in the Founders’ Room.
AA Meeting is at 10 a.m. in the Guild Room.

 

Saturday, December 1st
Harmony Rehearsal is at 3 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

 

 The First Sunday of Advent,  December 2nd

Sunday Services are at 8 a.m. Traditional in the Sanctuary, 10 a.m. Harmony in the Parish Hall, 10 a.m. Traditional in the Sanctuary and 6 p.m. in the Chapel.

Youth Group will meet at  9—9:50 a.m.  in the Youth Room.  Come and be a part of this great group!Nursery available from 9:45 a.m. in the Nursery.

Children’s Chapel begins at 9:45 a.m. in the Nursery coordinating with each service.  Children will return to the service at the Offertory time.

Sunday School is at 9:50 a.m. in the Guild Room.

Youth Band Rehearsal is at 12 Noon in the Parish Hall.
Volunteer Appreciation Sunday will be during all services.

 

Monday, December 3rd
AA is at 12 noon in the Guild Room.
Pageant Rehearsal is at 3:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.
Yoga is at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall.
Handbell Rehearsal is at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
 

See you at many—or all—of these events.

Blessings,

Pam Holley
Parish Secretary

                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weekly Events at St. Thomas

Hello Everyone,

Here’s your weekly reminder of all the programs, services and events at St. Thomas during the next several days.  Please take particular notice of all events in colored print.

 

PECANS ARE IN!!!

If you have ordered or wish to purchase pecans

please pick them up from the church office. 

DROP (OFF) YOUR DRAWERS

Clothes To Kids (CTK) give out 1250—1500 pairs of new underwear a week.  How many kids can WE help?  When you go shopping Black Friday, shop for one more.  Needed: Girl’s 4-16, Junior’s sizes 5 and up (bikinis), boys 4-16 (Boxers), Young Men’s 30-32 and up (boxers).  Bring in unopened packages of new children’s underwear Sunday, November 25, 2012.  Look for the box by the door to the service of your choice and Drop (off) Your Drawers.  For more info: www. Clothestokids.org or call Burrell Wood, Chair Outreach Committee 528-4015.

 

ANGEL TREE

Each year, St. Thomas generously provides Christmas gifts for each family member at Resurrection House.  You will see the Angel Tree outside of church on Sundays near the fountain in the garden beginning Nov. 25^th or in the Church office during the week until the deadline, Monday, Dec. 17^th.  

Resurrection House greatly appreciates your thoughtfulness and prayers.  Any questions?  Call Vicky Steinwender

727-480-1614 (cell) or 727-898-8919.

 

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION

Sunday, December 2nd

Volunteers will be honored during all Services.

 

ALMS FOR THE VICTIMS OF SANDY

One of the principles of a faith community is helping others in a time of need.  The second commandment is, “love thy neighbor as thyself.”  To this end, we are called to be generous in aiding our brothers and sisters that were victims of Hurricane Sandy.   The “Episcopal Relief and Development Sandy Response Fund” is focused on providing rapid response to assist in putting neighborhoods back together so people can get on with their lives.   In the past, we have experienced the massive damage that Hurricanes Katrina and Charlie brought and know the disruption, frustration, and hopelessness these disasters bring.  Saint Thomas sent teams to assist victims after Katrina in New Orleans.  While this is a noble and satisfying experience, in this situation, it is impractical. 

 

Our outreach in this emergency is providing funds for response and rehabilitation; this is the most efficient way to help.  Please pray for the victims that they are provided with all that is necessary and that they are treated respectfully.  Your donations will help them get back on their feet.  Funds will be received through November 31^st; make your check out to Saint Thomas with a note that it is for the Episcopal Relief and Development Sandy Response Fund.   We appreciate your consideration for this appeal. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Walt Jaap, Warden

 

Tuesday, November 20th
Centering Prayer meets tonight at 6—6:45 p.m.  Come to the Sanctuary at 6 p.m. to experience the “peace that surpasses all understanding” through the silence of Centering Prayer.
Chancel Choir Rehearsal is at 6:30 p.m. in the Founders’ Room.
Worship Open Jam is at 7:30 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Wednesday, November 21st

Men’s Bible Study is at 7 a.m. in the Guild Room.
The Holy Eucharist is at 12 noon in the Chapel.
Pageant Choir Rehearsal is at 4:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.

Thursday, November 22nd

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Friday, November 23rdl

CHURCH OFFICE CLOSED
AA Meeting is at 10 a.m. in the Guild Room.

 

Saturday, November 24th
Harmony Rehearsal is at 3 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

 

The Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost,  November 25th
Sunday Services are at 8 a.m. Traditional in the Sanctuary, 10 a.m. Harmony in the Parish Hall, 10 a.m. Traditional in the Sanctuary and 6 p.m. in the Chapel.
Youth Group will meet at  9—9:50 a.m.  in the Youth Room.  Come and be a part of this great group!
Nursery available from 9:45 a.m. in the Nursery.
Children’s Chapel begins at 9:45 a.m. in the Nursery coordinating with each service.  Children will return to the service at the Offertory time.
Sunday School is at 9:50 a.m. in the Guild Room.
Youth Band Rehearsal is at 12 Noon in the Parish Hall.

  

Monday, November 26th

AA is at 12 noon in the Guild Room.
Yoga is at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

 

See you at many—or all—of these events.

Blessings,

Pam Holley
Parish Secretary

                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happenings in Sunday School this Week

It is hard to believe we are approaching Thanksgiving but indeed it is almost here.  This week in Sunday school we have two important events within our regular program.

•  This is a BRIDGE week!  Our 4th/5th Grade Group will meet during our regular SS hour in the YOUTH ROOM.
• We will be choosing our Christmas Outreach Project. Please join us - we need your input!! A note will go home to parents outlining how it will unfold during the month of December. All ages are invited to participate.

We will take a break on Sunday, November 25th due to  Thanksgiving Holiday. Nursery and Children's Chapel will be available.

Preparing for Advent:
This year we would like to provide opportunity for Advent to be a family event. Advent calendars entitled Slow down. Quiet. It's Advent! are available for your family to reflect and prepare in the upcoming four weeks. It is a wonderful activity driven full sized poster ready for action. Copies are available for you to see this week in the Guild Room.

Upcoming Dates for your Calendar:

• Sunday, December 2nd - First Sunday of Advent- First lighting of the Advent wreath. Our tree will go up in the Parish Hall.
• Sunday, December 9th - Blessing of the Crib 10 a.m. Combined Sanctuary Service. Preparations will begin in the Guild Room at 9:15 a.m.  Sunday School and Children's Chapel will join the Sanctuary Service that day.
• Sunday, December 16th - Cookies and Caroling - We will visit Shore Acres Nursing Home following the 10:00 a.m. services.  All ages are invited to join in!
• Sunday, December 23rd - Decking of the Parish Hall and decorating of our Christmas Tree.

Much to do with great excitement and anticipation - See u Sunday!

PECANS ARE IN!

Pecans have arrived! If you pre-ordered or would like to purchase pecans, please go to the church office after the Sunday services to pick up your order. 

Road Closures this Sunday

Hello Everyone,

This Sunday morning, November 18th, is the Lady Speed Stick Women’s Half Marathon Race. The race route will begin and finish in front of the Mahaffey Theater on Bay Shore Dr. The course takes runners along Bay and North Shore Drive to Snell Isle and returns along the waterfront to the Pier then heads toward Miroor Lake and Tropicana Field via 1^st Ave S.  The race uses 22nd Ave. N., 1^st Street N. up to 34^th Ave N. and Snell Isle Blvd.

Remember to use 4^th Street to 38^th/40^th Ave. N. through Shore Acres entrance to get to the church. 

For more information and a map of the route go to: http://womenshalfmarathon.com/stpetersburg/road-closure-information.

 

See you at church,

Pam Holley
Parish Secretary

 

 

 

Weekly Events at St. Thomas

Hello Everyone,

Here’s your weekly reminder of all the programs, services and events at St. Thomas during the next several days.  Please take particular notice of all events in colored print.

DROP (OFF) YOUR DRAWERS

Clothes To Kids (CTK) give out 1250—1500 pairs of new underwear a week.  How many kids can WE help?  When you go shopping Black Friday, shop for one more.  Needed: Girl’s 4-16, Junior’s sizes 5 and up (bikinis), boys 4-16 (Boxers), Young Men’s 30-32 and up (boxers).  Bring in unopened packages of new children’s underwear Sunday, November 25, 2012.  Look for the box by the door to the service of your choice and Drop (off) Your Drawers.  For more info: www. Clothestokids.org or call Burrell Wood, Chair Outreach Committee 528-4015.

 

GUEST SPEAKER ON HAITI and

INFORMATIONAL MEETING-2013 HAITI MISSION TRIPS

On Wed. Nov.14, Pastor Frank Wagner from Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Juno Beach, FL, will speak at Supper, Song and Prayer.  He will tell of his experiences as member and spiritual guide on the 2012 Medical Mission Trip.  On Thurs., Nov.  15^th at 7 p.m., Pastor Frank, Richard Davis and Rene Clark will conduct the 1^st informational meeting about the 2013 and future mission trips.  Anyone interested is invited.

PRE-THANKSGIVING DINNER AT SUPPER, SONG & PRAYER

Join us Wednesday, November 14^th for a Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner at

Supper, Song & Prayer.  St. Thomas is providing the turkey.  Bring your

favorite side dish to share.

 

YOUTH BIG CAT RESCUE

Saturday, November 17^th

Meet at the church at 9 a.m.

and return at 1 p.m.

Cost is $30 per person

 

ANGEL TREE

Each year, St. Thomas generously provides Christmas gifts for each

family member at Resurrection House.  You will see the Angel

Tree outside of church on Sundays near the fountain in the garden

beginning Nov. 25^th or  in the Church office during the week until the

deadline, Monday, Dec. 17^th.  

Resurrection House greatly appreciates your thoughtfulness and prayers.

  Any questions?  Call Vicky Steinwender

727-480-1614 (cell) or 727-898-8919.

 

 VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION

Sunday, November 18^th

Volunteers will be honored during all Services.

 

LADY SPEED STICK WOMEN’S HALF MARATHON

This Sunday morning, November 20th, is the Women’s 5K Race. The race

route will use 22^nd Ave. N., the Snell Isle Bridge, 1^st Street up to 34^th Ave. N. 

Remember to use 4^th Street to 38^th/40^th Ave. N. through Shore Acres

entrance to get to the church. 

 

 ALMS FOR THE VICTIMS OF SANDY

One of the principles of a faith community is helping others in a time of need.  The second commandment is, “love thy neighbor as thyself.”  To this end, we are called to be generous in aiding our brothers and sisters that were victims of Hurricane Sandy.   The “Episcopal Relief and Development Sandy Response Fund” is focused on providing rapid response to assist in putting neighborhoods back together so people can get on with their lives.   In the past, we have experienced the massive damage that Hurricanes Katrina and Charlie brought and know the disruption, frustration, and hopelessness these disasters bring.  Saint Thomas sent teams to assist victims after Katrina in New Orleans.  While this is a noble and satisfying experience, in this situation, it is impractical. 

 
Our outreach in this emergency is providing funds for response and rehabilitation; this is the most efficient way to help.  Please pray for the victims that they are provided with all that is necessary and that they are treated respectfully.  Your donations will help them get back on their feet.  Funds will be received through November 31^st; make your check out to Saint Thomas with a note that it is for the Episcopal Relief and Development Sandy Response Fund.   We appreciate your consideration for this appeal.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

Walt Jaap, Warden

 

Tuesday, November 13th

 Centering Prayer meets tonight at 6—6:45 p.m.  Come to the Sanctuary at 6 p.m. to experience the “peace that surpasses all understanding” through the silence of Centering Prayer.

 

Vestry Meeting is at 7 p.m. in the Founders’ Room.

Worship Open Jam is at 7:30 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Wednesday, November 14th

Men’s Bible Study is at 7 a.m. in the Guild Room.

The Holy Eucharist is at 12 noon in the Chapel.

Pageant Choir Rehearsal is at 4:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.

Supper, Song & Prayer is in the Parish Hall beginning at 6 p.m.  Pastor Frank Wagner will be our speaker.  Please support Pastor Frank with your prayers and presence. Everyone is welcome!

Godly Play is at 6:30 p.m. in the Library.  Godly Play is for Pre-K thru 5^th grade children. We will  explore “The Sacred Stories.”

Youth Group meets at 6:30 p.m. in the Youth Room.

Handbell rehearsal is at 7:30 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Thursday, November 15th

Women of the Word is at 9 a.m. in the Guild Room.

Holy Folders is at 12:45 p.m. in the Founders’ Room.

Haiti Team Meeting is at 6 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

Chancel Choir Rehearsal is at 6:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.

Friday, November 16th

AA Meeting is at 10 a.m. in the Guild Room.

 

Saturday, November 17^th

Youth Big Cat Resue is at 9 a.m., meet in the Snell Isle Parking Lot.

Harmony Rehearsal is at 3 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

 

 The Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost,  November 18th

Sunday Services are at 8 a.m. Traditional in the Sanctuary, 10 a.m. Harmony in the Parish Hall,

10 a.m. Traditional in the Sanctuary and 6 p.m. in the Chapel.

Youth Group will meet at  9—9:50 a.m.  in the Youth Room.  Come and be a part of this great group!Nursery available from 9:45 a.m. in the Nursery.

Children’s Chapel begins at 9:45 a.m. in the Nursery coordinating with each service.  Children will return to the service at the Offertory time.

Sunday School is at 9:50 a.m. in the Guild Room.

Youth Band Rehearsal is at 12 Noon in the Parish Hall.

Volunteer Appreciation is during all services.

 

Monday, November 19th

AA is at 12 noon in the Guild Room.

Yoga is at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

Adult Ed with Dr. Chuck Jones is at 7 p.m. in the Guild Room.

 

See you at many—or all—of these events.

Blessings,

Pam Holley
Parish Secretary