Fruits of the Spirit

Fruits of the Spirit, a ladies fellowship at St. Thomas' meets Monday evenings

6:45 – 8:00 pm, during Lent. We have discussed LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE,
KINDNESS and GOODNESS in past meetings. We are also considering our progression
on the journey from seeing ourselves as sinners to being resurrected with Jesus –
sin, salvation, grace, faith, righteousness, justification, sanctification, redemption,
death and resurrection.

As we began our seventh study, FAITHFUL, we returned first to a topic raised
during the last lesson in regarded a recent news story, the denial of the
Sacrament of Communion due to lifestyle. Our St. Thomas' order of worship, emphasis on
inviting all baptized people to partake in the Sacrament and the goal of
encouraging people to turn from sin were discussed. Christ's example from
John 8:1-11 and teaching from Matthew 18:15-17 were considered.

The response to Jesus' teaching, healing and miracles while in Galilee was
reviewed setting the stage for His return to Judea and further ministry. As more
and more people believed, the angry Jewish leaders threaten to stone, and plot to
get rid of Him. Jesus and the disciples escape to the other side of the Jordan only
to return to Bethany when Lazarus becomes ill and dies. Jesus' raising him from
the dead is the final straw for the threatened leaders who actively plan to kill
Christ.

In John 18:1-11 Jesus' faithful focus on His appointed task and not loosing any of those given to
Him by the Father, even while being betrayed, were clearly demonstrated in His words and actions as He was being arrested.

We considered
• Jesus' opportunities to Judas to perhaps reconsider his choice to betray Christ
• Jesus' loyalty to the disciples in the face of arrest by many Roman soldiers and temple guards
• Soldiers response to Jesus' confidence
• Peter's attack on the servant
• Jesus' life of obedience in all circumstances as our model for sanctification and assurance of redemption

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

sanctification FAITHFUL redemption

1.GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTION: In light of our discussion last week regarding the denial of the Sacrament of Communion due to lifestyle, we will consider:
• Our challenge for the week was – encourage someone who is difficult
• John 8:1-11
• Matthew 18:15-17, 21-22, 33-35
• Luke 17:1-5
• Mk 3:28-29
• What if it happened here at St. Thomas’

2. PASSAGE: John 18:1-11 Jesus Arrested

When Jesus had finished praying, He left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said. Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.” Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the father has given me?”

3. We know from the synoptic gospels that Jesus asked the disciples to pray with Him. Like Mary visiting Elizabeth (lesson 3), He sought an __________________of _____________.

4. What did Jesus' actions demonstrate to the officials and the soldiers?

5. What did Jesus' words demonstrate to His disciples?

6. What did Peter's actions demonstrate?

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.

ADULT EDUCATION CONTINUES

A study of the Book of Common Prayer

will take a two (2) week hiatus for

Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday

It will resume on Sunday, April 15th at 9 a.m.

FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT CONTINUES

A nine week study for women’s fellowship

Monday, April 2th at 7 p.m.

In the Guild Room

 

SEDER MEAL

PLEASE JOIN US

WEDNESDAY OF

HOLY WEEK

6 P.M., April 4th

FOR A SEDER MEAL

Sign-up sheets to attend are on the Portico and in the Parish Hall.

We still need volunteers to prepare specific dishes for the meal. Respond by email or call the

Church office at 727-896-9641. Deadline is March 30th.

THE BELLS OF ST. THOMAS TO PLAY

EASTER MORNING

Our Handbell Choir will play three anthems during the Prelude time Easter Sunday. We invite you to begin your Easter experience by coming at 7:45 or 9:45 a.m., to enjoy the bells Easter! It will be an amazing and exciting experience!

MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE UNTO THE LORD!

We want you to bring one bell or many bells to church on Easter Sunday. Ring them any time you hear, say or sing the word, “ALLELUIA.” Join in the joyous celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the dead in this wonderful display of praise and thanksgiving!

ALTAR GUILD REMINDERS

March 31st General Cleaning at 9 a.m.

April 5th Maundy Thursday; Stripping of the Altar at the service.

YOUR WEEKLY FOOD DONATIONS

Your loving weekly food basket donation goes to the St. Petersburg Free Clinic 
Food Bank. The Food Bank distributes this food to over 50 partner agencies
throughout the community. Among them are Free Clinic’s We Help Services,
Women’s Residence and Beacon House.

St Thomas has donated 184 pounds of food so far in just March of this year! Way
to go! The on going need is great and your continued support is blessed. Staples
such as cereals, juice, peanut butter, and canned meats are always needed. Never will “buy one and get one free” at the grocer go farther.
Outreach

REGISTRATION FOR VBS

Mark your calendar—June 25—29th, 2012

for the Adventure of a Life Time

Registration open for the community

Tuesday, March 27th

Beginning Handbell rehearsal is at 3:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

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



Wednesday, March 28th

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

The Holy Eucharist is at 12 noon in the Chapel.

Seder Meal Meeting is at 5:15 p.m. in the Founders’ Room.

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

Godly Play is at 6:30 p.m. in the Library. Godly Play is for Pre-K thru 5th grade children. We will explore the “Mystery of Easter.”

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

Handbell Rehearsal is at 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.


Thursday, March 29th

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

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


Friday, March 30th

Stretching & Toning is at 8:30 a.m. in the Guild Room.

Holy Folders meet at 10 a.m. in the Founders’ Room.

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


Saturday, March 31st

Altar Guild Cleaning is at 9 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

Service for Mary Ellen Smith, Bishop Dabney Smith’s wife, is at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Cathedral.

Harmony Band Rehearsal is at 3 p.m. in the Choir Room.


The Sunday of the Passion, April 1st

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!

Sunday School is at 9:50 a.m. in the Canterbury Library.

Nursery available from 9:45 a.m. in the Guild Room.

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

VBS registration opens to the community.

Stewardship Meeting is at 11:15 a.m. in the Founders’ Room.

Youth Band Rehearsals is at 12 noon in the Parish Hall.


Monday, April 2nd—HOLY WEEK

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

Women’s Bible Study is at 9 a.m. in the Library.

AA is at 12 noon in the Guild Room.

Handbell Rehearsal is at 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

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

Fruits of the Spirit is at 7 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Monday Holy Week Service is at 7 p.m. in the Chapel.

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

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

Blessings,
Pam Holley
Parish Secretary

Sermon Notes from Harmony Service

Numbers 21:4-9
Psalms 107:1-2, 21-22
Ephesians 2:1-10
John 3:14-21

Rev. Lisa began her sermon referring to the Fabreeze air freshener commercial where someone is blindfolded and then surrounded by gross smelling things but cannot tell until her blindfold is removed.  She made the parallel to the Isrealites from today's Old Testament reading.  They had been punished for complaining to God about their situation, whining about their condition once again.  God sent poisonous snakes and the only way they could realize relief would be to literally look upon the source of their pain.  "Taking off their blindfold" and looking upon the gold snake, the cause of their ailment, was the only way they could find healing.  God is telling us we have to acknowledge our sin.

Rev. Lisa noted that 12 step programs embrace this basic truth of human failing, requiring those adhering to the program to start by admitting that their lives are out of their control.  Furthermore, this is done in a group setting because it can be very challenging to do this on our own. 

The Gospel reading builds on this lesson.  Rev. Lisa reminded us that crucifixion is as ugly as it gets...the word "excruciating" comes from the Greek word for crucifixion.  It is hard to come to terms with our own failings.  Yet we have to face this humiliating event to realize the fully accept God's gift.  We have to face Good Friday to reach Easter.  No one forces us to do this...we have to make the choice to take off our own blindfolds to realize the grace expressed in John 3:16.

posted by m white

Women of the Word Exodus 33

Exodus 33

As this chapter opens, the Lord is still angry with the Israelites over the incident of the golden calf.  He reiterates to Moses His promise that the people will settle in the land of Canaan, “a land flowing with milk and honey,” but He announces that He will no longer journey with them “for fear that I will annihilate you on the way; for you are a stubborn people.” (vss. 3-4)  Some translations use the term “stiff-necked” for “stubborn.”  Either word shows God’s extreme displeasure, and, in response, the Israelites strip off their ornaments as if they were in mourning and do not wear them again.  (This chapter is an earlier version from the J writer, whereas the incident of the golden calf was penned by the P writer; thus here the Hebrews are still in possession of their jewelry.)  

Moses always meets with the Lord in a special Tent of the Presence, which he pitches at some distance outside the camp.  This Tent, not to be confused with the Tabernacle, whose construction and decoration have been described in chapters 26-27, is from an older memory inserted here by the J writer before the institution of the priesthood.  Whenever Moses enters the Tent of the Presence, a pillar of cloud comes down and stays at the entrance while he is inside.  All the people stand at the entrance to their individual tents watching the pillar and waiting for Moses.  Meanwhile, within, Moses and the Lord would speak, face-to-face, “as one speaks to a friend.” (v. 11)  Afterwards, Moses would return to the camp, but his assistant, Joshua, would stay inside the Tent.

In the next five verses, Moses pretty much asks God to change His mind.  He points out that, although God has told him to lead “this people up, but thou hast not told me whom thou wilt send with me . . . for this nation is thy own people.”  The Lord relents and agrees “I will go with you in person and set your mind at rest.” (vss. 12-14)

God then reminds Moses that “I know you by name,” and, with that, Moses asks for an enormous favor in return: “Show me thy glory.”  God acquiesces.  First He tells Moses His name, “I Am That I Am” (transliterated as Yahweh), a name so sacred in Judaism that it can only be uttered by the High Priest on certain Holy Days in the Temple.  He has only given Moses this name once before, when he spoke to him from a burning bush and commissioned him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Ex. 3:13-15).  God expands further on His name saying that He will “be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”

Next God tells Moses that He will “pass by” him, but he must hide in the crevice of a rock, because “no mortal man may see me and live.”  God then covers Moses’ face with His hand until He goes past the rock, and Moses is only able to see His glory reflected from the back.  These four verses (20-23) are a later insertion from the Priestly writer and contradict the J writer’s earlier description of God and Moses meeting face-to-face as friends (vs. 11).

Once again, we are reminded that the Book of Exodus describes the formation of a united people from a disparate group of tribes, and that this Sinai event is a critical episode in moving them forward toward their goal of settling in the land of Canaan.  Furthermore, “one of the most striking features of biblical religion, which the story of the Exodus-Sinai event underscores, is the activity of God in the course of history.  He is an intensely personal God who plays a direct role in the activities of mankind.” (Education For Ministry, Book Two: From Egypt to Canaan, p. 97) 

Submitted by Karilyn Jaap

Photos from Children's Sunday School

For more photos, visit our Facebook page.

Fruits of the Spirit

THE FRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT: OVERVIEW GALATIANS

5:22-23

Paul wrote a desperate letter to the churches in Galatia that he
helped establish on his first missionary journey. This letter differs
from those (recorded in the Bible) to churches in other regions. Paul
does not praise the Galatians for their faith or perseverance.

After his initial greeting, Paul goes directly to the point of the letter.
Confusion had arisen inside the church, grace was missing and
works were back! He was amazed that they have accepted false
teaching and a very different gospel form the Good News he
preached.

The Judaizers were convincing the Gentiles that becoming a Jew was
required before they could become a true follower of Christ.

Apparently, Paul had heard more than just about weakened doctrine,
he begged the Galatians to hold onto true faith against the
temptations of "this present evil age". He gave a long list of acts
prompted from the sinful nature, a.k.a. bad fruit (Galatians 5:19-21):
                     • sexual immorality                      • debauchery
                     • drunkenness                             • filthy language
                     • selfish ambition                         • fits of rage
                     • evil desires                               • impurity
                     • factions                                    • jealousy
                     • witchcraft                                 • orgies
                     • slander                                     • malice
                     • idolatry                                     • hatred
                     • lust                                           • envy
                     • greed                                       • anger
                     • deceit

What would Paul have thought of the Super Bowl half time show?

Paul follows in Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love,
joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Development of these characteristics gives evidence that faith in
Jesus is what motivates the believer.

In our weekly class we will consider each fruit individually and as a

building block to maturing in faith and dependence on the Holy Spirit
to lead us to become more like Christ.

Also, since we are going into this study just before the season of
Lent, it seems appropriate to consider our journey to salvation.

Paul wrote his most influential letter to the Church in Roman. In it he
clearly explains the progression from understanding our sinful nature
to personally sharing in the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

Many have come to faith through understanding this progression,
including Martian Luther.

Luther was a very pious monk, who really worked to live to please
God. Finding it impossible to live a truly righteous life, he became
angry with God for imposing such impossible standards. While
studying Paul's letter to the Roman's, the light bulb went off!

The progression is,
SIN, SALVATION, GRACE, FAITH, RIGHTEOUSNESS,
JUSTIFICATION, SANTIFICATION, REDEMPTION, DEATH
and RESURRECTION.

SIN, which sees the LOVE of God
glimpses SALVATION.

Salvation from eternal death gives undiluted JOY,
especially when it is free, by God's GRACE,

There is one string attached to free,
FAITH in the work of His Son!

Jesus' sacrifice provides us, who believe with RIGHTEOUSNESS,
not innocence, but forgiven of sin in God's eyes. Now that is PEACE!

Peace within our heart, mind and body frees us to look at other's
without self-centered interest, but with PATIENCE.

We are JUSTIFIED by Christ, reunited to our Creator,
and free to choose daily to follow the lead of His Holy Spirit.


A right relationship with God focuses us on what is really important,
loving God and loving KINDNESS for each other!

The more we choose to relinquish control and follow Him, the more
we are made clean of sin--SANCTIFIED, and finally called GOOD
because we choose to do what is right not out of fear but love!

Progression continues, we are REDEMMED and more FAITHFUL to
God.

Now we can face DEATH as Christ did, with the GENTLENESS to be
more concerned about His mother and friend's than Himself.

He knew RESURRECTION would follow,
and so do we, therefore, we can exhibit in our daily life the SELFCONTROL
to want to obey.

Actually we give up self in favor of Spirit Control.
 
Our study continues considering KINDNESS of character developing out of increased awareness of God's LOVE in spite of our sin. God in unconditional love for us offers salvation from the deserved penalty for sin. It is a free gift, by His grace, which gives God joy to offer, and us JOY and PEACE when we accept it by faith. Faith in Jesus as God's Son, whose sacrifice on the cross was payment for our sin, provides us with righteousness, free from sin in God's eyes. PATIENCE grows as we experience peace knowing we are right with God. Patience gives us time to see our selves forgiven and see other's with an empathetic point of view.


FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
righteousness KINDNESS justification
1.GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTION:
a. What do you think is Satan's greatest "tool"?
b. What tools do you use to fight temptation?
c. Did fasting from something last week help you resist temptation and/or focusing more on God?

REVIEW: RIGHTEOUSNESS, discussed last week, Jesus, when tempted by the Devil, with patience choose to do what He came to do–according to God's purpose, the right way.

When we accept Christ's path for our life, we get to wear His clothes of righteousness instead of our sin rags. God sees us as belonging to Jesus, and looks at us as holy thru FAITH

2. PASSAGE: Luke 5:27-32

27After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. "Follow Me," Jesus said to him, 28and Levi got up, left everything and followed Him. 29Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them. 30But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to His disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" 31Jesus answered them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.".

[After this, this is the call of Andrew & Peter, James & John–fishermen who worked together, and also many healings (including Peter's mother in law), and calming of the sea.

Mark 1:28 states Jesus' fame had spread through out all the region around Galilee. Levi was in the same region by the sea.

Levi became Matthew at conversion
booth Mark and Matthew call it an office it was a sort of franchise!]

3. The Pharisees put tax collectors in a class with obvious sinners. Why do you think Jesus chose a tax collector?
 
4. Imagine yourself as one of the chosen apostles. From what you know about them

a. With which one could you identify?
b. Why?

5. Levi left everything and immediately followed Jesus' invitation. What do you think you would have done?
a. What does his immediate response imply?
b. The next thing Levi did was _____________________________?

6. Levi's name became Matthew, "gift of God", when he followed Jesus.
a. What gift came from Matthew to God's people?
b. What did Jesus "see" in Matthew that caused Him to choose him?

PERSPECTIVE

1 SAMUEL 16:1-13 Samuel Anoints David. We remember God's example of kindness
in choosing David, the youngest of Jesse's sons to become the future king .....

Mark 1:41 Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. "I am willing," He said. "Be healed" (Leper who could not do as Jesus asked "tell no one" but told everyone)

Romans 10:10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

7. Define:
a. sympathy=
b. empathy=
c. compassion=
d. kindness=

8. Define: Justification using Romans 10:10

9. What does kindness look like in a church community?

CHALLENGE: Encourage someone's potential

Visualize: pirate ship, plank, crocodile, Jesus flies in, Jesus gets in your place,
Jesus walks the plank, one "day" goes by with no Jesus....

NEXT WEEK: GOODNESS JOHN 4:7-42

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.

AFRICAN JEWELRY AND CRAFTS CONTINUES SUNDAY

The African Jewelry and Crafts sale will be after the 8 and 10 a.m. Eucharists. This has become an annual outreach event at St. Thomas. Whether you're looking for something for yourself, a friend or a member of the family, stop by and look over the selections available. This popular and worthwhile charity which assists children and families in South Africa always has unusual craft and jewelry items. It's a real 2-for-1...one price to make you and those who benefit happy.

ADULT EDUCATION CONTINUES

Sunday, March 18th at 9 a.m.

A study of the Book of Common Prayer

Beyond the dirty pages.

in the Chapel

FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT CONTINUES

A nine week study for women’s fellowship

Monday, March 19th at 7 p.m.

In the Guild Room

THE GIFT OF LIFE

On Sunday, March 18th,

St. Thomas

and

Florida Blood

Services

will be hosting a blood drive.

Please plan to donate a pint of blood at the church

between

8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

To make an appointment please

sign-up on the portico or

call the church office

at 896-9641.

REGISTRATION FOR VBS

Mark your calendar—June 25—29th, 2012

for the Adventure of a Life Time

Registration open for the community

SANDWICH SUNDAY

MARCH 18th

Come and join in the fellowship of making bologna and cheese sandwiches.

After the 8 a.m. service, a group will prepare the meat and cheese.

After the 10 a.m. services a group will complete the sandwiches.

Large or small, 4 years to 50 years all are welcome. It is a wonderful fellowship for all.

 

CHILDREN’S CENTER AND LIBRARY

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, March 11th

9:30 a.m.—12 Noon

We are excited to show off our new space and to invite our families to see what we now have for our children. We will have all of our regular programs with Nursery and Children’s Chapel plus refreshments and activiites. Join us and celebrate!!!

Tuesday, March 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.


Wednesday, March 14th

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

The Holy Eucharist is at 12 noon in the Chapel.

Seder Meal Meeting is at 5:15 p.m. in the Founders’ Room.

Supper, Song & Prayer, Godly Play, and Youth Group are cancelled tonight. It will resume next Wednesday.

Handbell Rehearsal is at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary.


Thursday, March 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.

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


Friday, March 16th

Stretching & Toning is at 8:30 a.m. in the Guild Room.

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


Saturday, March 10th

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


Sandwich Sunday, The Fourth Sunday of Lent, March 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!

Sunday School is at 9:50 a.m. in the Canterbury Library.

Nursery available from 9:45 a.m. in the Guild Room.

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

Adult Education is at 9 a.m. in the Chapel.

VBS registration opens to the community.

African Team Ministries is on the Portico after the 8 and 10 a.m. services.

Youth Band Rehearsals is at 12 noon in the Parish Hall.


Blood Drive is from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon in the Cordova Parking Lot.


Sandwich Sunday meet in the Parish Hall prior to and after the 10 a.m.


Children’s Center and Library Open House is 9:30 a.m.—12 noon in the Library and Nursery.



Monday, March 19th

AA is at 12 noon in the Guild Room.

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

Fruits of the Spirit is at 7 p.m. in the Guild Room.


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

Blessings,
Pam Holley
Parish Secretary

New meaning to the old rugged cross

Cross will be cleaned, sanded, patched with epoxy, painted, and a new base attachment will be fabricated, then back up on top of the roof for another 50 years.    The R value roofing crew did great in taking it down with minimal impact.   For additional photos, visit our Facebook page.

Submitted by Walt Jaap

Women of the Word

Exodus 29 & 30

Chapter 29

Verses 31-37

We continue our study of Exodus by completing Chapter 29, which is a wrap-up of the rules of priest ordination.  Meat is involved, in this case a ram that is to be eaten in front of the Tent of God’s presence. The priests are also to eat the bread that has been left outside the Tent as well. They should try to clean their plates. If that is not possible all leftovers must be burned for the food is sacred and cannot be eaten by ordinary man. This eating of ram must be done 7 days in a row. Ah, there’s that number again.  By doing this, the altar is made holy.

Verses 38-46

This reading tells us “for all time to come, sacrifice on the altar two one-year old lambs.” One in the morning and one in the evening. That’s a lot of lamb. The good news is that not all the meat must be made as an offering thus the non-priestly class will receive nourishment and the lambs will not have died in vain.  This rite is to be performed at the entrance of the Tent because God says, “That is where I will meet my people and speak to you.” The rest of the verse is God reminding us that we need to do this every day so that we all stay close to Him. I was struck by the tinge of loneliness in God’s words. It was like “if you come and spend time with me I will feed you and never leave you.” But I also believe that for all our flaws, God likes the company of us humans. God sounds like the parent of college-age children that he wants to have come home for the weekend. And then go back to school promptly Sunday night.

Chapter 30

Verses 1-10

The chapter starts right in with more DIY directions. This time we build an altar on which to burn incense. This altar is to be tended to by Aaron. There are to be no sacrifices on this altar or the burning of any forbidden incense. Since it calls for the burning “sweet incense.” I am guessing they are not to burn sour incense. Believe me, it’s out there. And I’ve wasted good money on it. Calling it “Honeysuckle Dreams” or “Inner Peace” is deceptive advertising. Ghastly. God commands that this offering of incense is to continue without interruption for all time to come. I instantly thought of all the eternal flames that there are in the world. Once a year, Aaron was to purify this altar with…wait for it…blood.

Verses 11-16

Is all about taxes. And this passage has some interesting loopholes in it.  First, rich and poor are to pay the same amount. This isn’t so much a tax (well, it is) but rather a “price” for one’s life. But perhaps most important of all, it states that only men age 20 and above are to pay this tax. Women are not included! Yeah, for once, being a second-class citizen does have a reward. We didn’t have to pay taxes. These collected monies were for the upkeep of the Tent.

Verses 17-21

This covers the making of a bronze basin in which the priests wash their hands. This tradition continues to this day in our services when the acolyte pours water over the priest’s hands at the start of communion.

Verses 22-23

We move away from handiwork to cooking of sorts. Here the Lord gives Moses the recipe for sacred anointing oil. As with all things in this chapter, the oil is only to be used by the priests to anoint themselves and the various sacred objects inside the Tent.

Verses 34-38

Another recipe, this one for incense. God admonishes them to not make this type of incense for personal use. Any one who disobeys this will no longer be considered one of God’s people. That is harsh but there it is.

Next Week: More rules about he making of holy handicrafts.

Respectfully submitted by Diana Lucas Leavengood

Women of the Word

Exodus 31

God now gives more detailed instructions to Moses on Mt. Sinai, explicit, and long, as to who's to do what, and as to utensils, meeting places, the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, vestments for the participants for services. and the treatment of the food by which atonement is made. No stone tablets for this - surely Moses must have a monumental memory.

A bull is to be offered as a sin offering for atonement. A golden bull or calf often represents the gods (note plural) worshiped back then. These stories are often mixed in the telling, hence the sometimes singular "God" and the plural "gods". There have been fights between the Aaronites and the Levites, memories of old disagreements. But above them all, God has placed Moses as the intercessor, again and again. Moses, He says, will father a great nation.

Remember, this is Moses who sent off his wife Ziporah and his two sons without so much as a fare-thee-well. And yet he, not Abraham or Isaac, is God's chosen representative to carry out His commandments.

God tells Moses He is not happy with the people. He does not like their squabbling, their golden calf image, and He is really angry with them. Moses, again the intercessor, pleads on the peoples' behalf, and in a rare moment, God changes His mind about bringing disaster on the people.

Next comes the climax, the big MGM moment: Moses brings the stone tablets with the Big Ten down from the mount. Here he found the people reveling around and worshiping a golden calf they had made. He threw the tablets down and broke them demanding to know where the calf had come from. Aaron explained to him how upset and restless the people were, and how he had them take of all their gold jewelry and throw it in the fire, and "out came this calf."

R-r-right.

Anyway, Moses burned the calf in the fire, ground it to powder and made everyone drink it. Seems like an equitable solution.

Then---THEN-- he called together all those who were on the Lord's side, and all the Levites gathered around him. He told them the Lord had said for them to go throughout the camp and kill their brother, their friend or their son. When they did so, he told them "You have ordained yourselves for the service of the Lord." And he said he would try to get the Lord to forgive them of the great sin of worshiping the golden calf. Mind you, they killed 3,000 people that day. A puzzling portion of scripture, to be sure.

Moses again interceded for the people with the Lord. The Lord directed Moses to lead the people to the place where He had told him. At the end of His patience with this golden calf thing, He later sent a plague upon the people..

We are urged to remember that these are God's chosen people, not because they are perfect. From the beginning they made mistakes, but it was God's grace that set them apart. 

submitted by Deenie Miller

Fruits of the Spirit Continued

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

faith PATIENCE righteousness

1.GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTION: What causes you to grit your teeth, bite your tongue or just steam?

2.Who said that??? Leo Tolstoy, Guy Kawisaki, George Washington

• The marvel of history is the patience with which men and women submit
to the burdens unnecessarily laid on them by their governments.

• Patience is the art of concealing your impatience.

• The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.

3. Passage: Luke 4:1-13

1 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. 3 The devil said to him, If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread. 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone.” 5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours.” 8 Jesus answered, “It is written: Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.” 9 The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. If you are the Son of God, he said, throw yourself down from here. 10 For it is written: ”He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; 11 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” 12 Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” 13 When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.

4. Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River just prior to our passage. He prayed, heaven opened, the Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove and a voice came from heaven: "You are My Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased."

Why do you think Jesus chose to be baptized

5. The desert experience included fasting forty days, have you ever fasted to the point of real hunger?

PERSPECTIVE


Ex 14:21-25 The Red Sea Crossing
Ex 15:22-24 Grumbling begins in 3 days, no water!
Ex 16 Manna!
Ex 17 Water from the Rock AND Enemies defeated
Ex 20 The Ten Commandments
Ex 32 The Golden Calf

Prophets Warn and Foretell

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

6. Satan had three big "IF's", Jesus' answers demonstrate

• knowledge

• understanding

• wisdom

7. In John 6:38-40 we are told why Jesus came: "For I have come down from heaven not to do My will but to do the will of Him who sent me... that I shall lose none of all that He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day. For My Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise Him up at the last day."

Therefore, Jesus choose the ____________________ way?

8. Define patience:

9. How does patience ideally look like in a church community?

CHALLENGE: Fast from something this week

Visualize daily: pirate, ship, plank, crocodile, Jesus flies in, Jesus gets in your place, Jesus walks the plank....

Lent is a time to reflect, repent, renew and reconcile with God and our brothers.

NEXT WEEK: KINDNESS Luke 5:27-32

Fruits of the Spirit

Fruits of the Spirit, a ladies fellowship at St. Thomas' meets Monday evenings 6:45 - 8:00 pm during Lent. We have discussed LOVE, JOY, and PEACE in past meetings, considering also our progression on the journey from being sinners to being resurrected with Jesus – sin, salvation, grace, faith, righteousness, justification, sanctification, redemption, death and resurrection.


The March 5th class looked at PATIENCE, considering faith and righteousness.

(The REVIEW section is formatted for a future web page to be available from the St. Thomas' Blog.)

REVIEW

We are looking at the FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT which Paul
strongly urged the early Galatian churches to strive for as
evidence of saving faith in Jesus Christ through God's grace.
Each fruit will be considered individually and as a stepping
stone toward maturing. Paul's letter to the Romans outlines
the steps of our life long road to eternal life with God. These
two themes will be combined for our study.

Overview of lessons on LOVE, JOY, and PEACE.

We began our journey becoming aware of sin
Sin is doing what we want instead of what God wants
God gave us freedom of choice
We choose sin
Sin is like like quicksand, impossible to get out by yourself!
And out of relationship with God
God promised to send us a way out, a Savior

In LOVE, God reaches out to us
He lifts us out of the pit (of sin) and places us on dry ground!
We are on a path
Still sinners, we can look through God's

LOVE

and glimpse a light ahead-salvation, being free from sin's penalty, is potential, and brings

JOY!

How is the question? Grace the free gift of God is the answer bringing

PEACE

God said (promised in the Old Testament) a Savior would come to pay our penalty
Our relationship with God can be restored (by FAITH in His promise)

This is the lesson used for fellowship and discussion
(NOTE: The next study KINDNESS scripture has been changed to Luke 5:27-32)

TIME CHANGE THIS WEEKEND

This Sunday, March 11th is Daylight Spring Savings Time change!

REMEMBER TO SET YOUR CLOCKS

AHEAD AN HOUR

SATURDAY NIGHT FOR THIS SUNDAY!!!

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.

AFRICAN JEWELRY AND CRAFTS

 The African Jewelry and Crafts sale will be March 11th after the 8 and 10 a.m. Eucharists. This has become an annual outreach event at St. Thomas. Whether you're looking for something for yourself, a friend or a member of the family, stop by and look over the selections available. This popular and worthwhile charity which assists children and families in South Africa always has unusual craft and jewelry items. It's a real 2-for-1...one price to make you and those who benefit happy.

CALLING ALL ST. THOMAS ARTISTS

CORAL REEF CROCHET PROJECT

St. Thomas will host a “How To” Clinic

Saturday, March 10th

9 a.m.—12 noon in the Guild Room

Join in the fun...crochet coral pieces for the Satellite Coral Reef! Learn to crochet a variety of coral shapes. Great for beginners and those who already know how to crochet. Teachers, materials and patterns are provided, NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! This is a community collaborative project of Florida Craftsman Guild.

ADULT EDUCATION CONTINUES

Sunday, March 11th at 9 a.m.

A study of the Book of Common Prayer

Beyond the dirty pages.

in the Chapel

FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT

A nine week study for women’s fellowship

Monday, March 12th at 7 p.m.

In the Guild Room

THE GIFT OF LIFE

On Sunday, March 18th,

St. Thomas

and

Florida Blood

Services

will be hosting a blood drive.

Please plan to donate a pint of blood at the church

between

8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

To make an appointment please

sign-up on the portico or

call the church office

at 896-9641.

REGISTRATION FOR VBS

Mark your calendar—June 25—29th, 2012

for the Adventure of a Life Time

Registration open for the community

Tuesday, March 6th

Beginning Hand Bell rehearsals is at 3:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.

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, March 7th


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

The Holy Eucharist is at 12 noon in the Chapel.

Seder Meal Meeting is at 5:15 p.m. in the Founders’ Room.

Supper, Song & Prayer is in the Parish Hall beginning at 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome!

Godly Play is at 6:30 p.m. in the Library. Godly Play is for Pre-K thru 5th grade children. We will explore the “Mystery of Easter.”

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

Handbell Rehearsal is at 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.


Thursday, March 8th

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

Support Our Troops meeting is at 10:30 a.m. in the Guild Room.

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


Friday, March 9th

Stretching & Toning is at 8:30 a.m. in the Guild Room.

Holy Folders meet at 10 a.m. in the Founders’ Room.

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


Saturday, March 10th

Coral Reef Crochet Project is at 9 a.m. in the Guild Room.

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


The Third Sunday of Lent, March 11th

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!

Sunday School is at 9:50 a.m. in the Canterbury Library.

Nursery available from 9:45 a.m. in the Guild Room.

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

Adult Education is at 9 a.m. in the Chapel.

VBS registration opens to the community.

African Team Ministries is on the Portico after the 8 and 10 a.m. services.


Monday, March 12th

Stretching & Toning is at 8:30 a.m. in the Guild Room.

AA is at 12 noon in the Guild Room.

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

Fruits of the Spirit is at 7 p.m. in the Guild Room.

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

Blessings,
Pam Holley
Parish Secretary

Kids Leading Worship - Harmony Service

For more photos, visit our Facebook page.




posted by m white

Note from Rev. Lisa Hamilton

Spent last three days with Father John, Elaine Patrick and Julie Songster learning some useful ways to build faith and community, often using social media to do so. At the moment, I feel a little knowledge-logged, but eager to try some new ideas and renewedly-grateful to serve at St Thomas among such dedicated and fun colleagues, both on and off staff.

Fruits of the Spirit

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

grace PEACE faith

1.GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTION:
On a scale of 1-10 (1 = equal very peaceful; 10 = very anxious),
how would you rate your life?


2. PASSAGE: LUKE 1:39-56

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever; his kingdom will never end." 34 "How will this be, Mary asked the angel, since I am a virgin?" 35 The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail." 38 "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May your word to me be fulfilled." Then the angel left her.

Mary Visits Elizabeth 39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" 44 "As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!"

Mary’s Song 46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. 51He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful 55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors." 56 Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home

3.You are a single, but betrothed virgin in Mary's time. How would you react to this"good news"?

4. From Mary's immediate response, what do you think about Mary's knowledge of God?

5. Elizabeth and her baby respond with joy and reveal great understanding. Their source was, ___________________________.

6. Mary's Song, her thoughtful response to her situation reveal she knew scripture well. Do you think she understood all of prophesy about the Messiah?

PERSPECTIVE

Is 7:14 Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and call His name Immanuel (God with us).

Psalm 9:1-2 Messiah will be born in region of Galilee

Is 52:13 – 53:12 The Sin bearing Servant

2 Cor 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us

Ro 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Eph 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.

Jn 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

7. Mary and Elizabeth knew God was a promise keeper.

We know from the promises were kept (example: Christ's hands and feet would be pierced – Ps 22:16 and fulfilled in Jn 20:25,27).

Christ promised to return after His death, Jn 16:16-22.

He kept the promise. Our response–NOW?

8. Define Peace:

CHALLENGE: Psalm 16:9-10 ... You will not allow Your Holy One to see corruption

Visualize daily: pirate ship, walking plank, crocodile, Jesus flies in...
Jesus gets in your place.....

Live this week focused on the big picture, ignore the small "stuff"

Lent is a time to reflect, repent, renew and reconcile with God and our brothers.


NEXT WEEK: PATIENCE Matthew 4:1-11