NEWSLETTER AUGUST 2024
Church Service on Sundays 10:30-11:30
Prayer
However, as the scripture says, "What no one ever saw or heard, what no one ever thought could happen, is the very thing God prepared for those who love him." But it was to us that God made known his secret by means of his Spirit. (1 Corinthians 2:9–10a)
Lord our God, bless us all through your Spirit so that we may find certainty of heart in community with you under your rulership. May we keep this certainty, whatever course our lives may take, whatever battles and suffering may come to us, for we belong to you, and you rule and guide us as your children. Watch over all who are still far away from you but who long for you. Watch over all who are good-hearted and sincere, even if they often do not understand you. Protect them, and let your kingdom come so that your will is carried out more and more by the many who feel compelled to seek for you and for the goodness and truth which are your will. May we and many others serve you with our whole lives. Amen.
Keeping those in need in our prayers. Have compassion on those who suffer from any grief, health issues or trouble, especially:
Joyce, Pat and Gary, Kathy, Artie, Abril and Ken Peres and their sons Joseph and Kenny, Jesse Morgan, Susan Mills, Garry, Ron, Rhonda, Sandy and Robert, Valerie, John and Bob Rivord, Jim, Zane, Max and James, Isabel Rivera, Katie Oliver Haas, Frieda, Ayden, Betty, Lena, Kathleen, Bruce and Lynette, Benjamin, Rose, Jim, Russ Howell, Daniel Archuleta and family, Andrew Perez, Elizabeth Garcia and family, Reverend Susan, Bea Trujillo, Linda, Fannie, Ben, and Christian, Marcyand Jeff Northrop, Daniel, Nicole, Cathy and Mike Porter, Marla, and Kenny Sallee.
St. Thomas of Canterbury 65th Birthday and 50th Parish Anniversary Celebration
Join us at St. Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Albuquerque for a momentous weekend celebrating our 65 years as a faith community and 50 years as a parish!
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Start the celebration with a happy hour and reception, followed by a seated dinner featuring entertainment and a showcase of artwork by Canterbury’s talented artists.
Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 10:00 AM
Continue the festivities with a celebratory Eucharist, followed by a communal potluck meal.
For updates or to RSVP, please email: canterbury65birthday@gmail.com
Stay tuned to our Facebook page for more information.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
AN INVITATION TO JOIN AN EfM COMMUNITY 2024-25
An Education for Ministry (EfM) group meets weekly from September through May each year here in Albuquerque. We have met via Zoom for the past 3 years and will continue to do so as some of our participants live too far away for us to meet face to face. We meet for a minimum of 2 hours once a week for 36 weeks. Our schedule is adjusted for holidays. The day and time is determined by the participants’ schedules. This past year we met Tuesdays, 6-8:10PM.
This four-year continuing education program was begun by the School of Theology at Sewanee: University of the South in 1975. EfM invites participants into small, mentored groups that provide the framework for understanding life and shaping actions as Christian faith is deepened.
Participants join for a variety of reasons. “I wanted to know more about the Bible ... who wrote it ... how it was organized ...” said Rosa Valencia, who graduated from EfM in 2017. “EfM helped me to find answers to my questions about the history of religion, but more importantly, EfM helped me connect to my God,” Rosa Valencia recalls. She joined the Cathedral as a result of her EfM studies.
During their four years in EfM participants study 1) the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), 2) the New Testament; 3) history of the Church, and 4) theological and moral ideas. Each participant reads the assigned material for him/herself during the week. This will take 4 or more hours a week in personal study.
The heart of the EfM experience is the weekly seminar group. Through discussion and guided reflection, the seminars furnish an opportunity to deepen understanding of the reading materials. Seminar groups work under the leadership of mentors who contract to serve as guides and administrators. They are not teachers in the traditional sense who are expected to impart information about the Christian tradition. (The role of the teacher is built into the program materials.)
EfM also trains participants in the art of Theological Reflection — bringing “the lens of Faith to bear on any aspect of life"--so we can each align our behavior with what we say we believe. EfM graduate Sandy Veltkamp agrees: EfM provided “a connectedness between what I profess to be my Faith and my daily life ... EfM internalized my Faith.”
By examining their own beliefs and their relationship to our culture and the tradition of our Christian faith, participants can learn what it means to be effective ministers in the world. In coming to terms with the notion that everything we do has potential for manifesting the love of Christ, we discover that our ministry is at hand wherever we turn.
The EfM program is preparation the work we pray for at the end of the Eucharist: “And now, Father, send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord.”
The one unforeseen but perhaps greatest benefit from EfM is the closeness of ‘EfMers’ to each other because of their shared "Living into the Journey of God." 2017 EfM graduate Betty Logan recalls "the most joyful surprise comes from the lasting friendships, which bring not only an understanding of different perspectives, but also become a source of loving support and fellowship." Sandy VeltKamp adds that she cherishes the ‘amazing support from fellow participants...and the grace!’
So, if you're ready to take a deeper dive into your Faith, you can check out EfM at their website https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/ for a brief introduction or go to https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/program/enrollment-and-fees/ for further information.
For more questions including tuition and enrollment for the 2024-2025 program year, contact EfM mentor Joanne Gray at 505-450-9934 or jgray59@msn.com . Classes are scheduled to start in early September 2024.
Dear St. Luke's Family,
We are delighted to unveil two new offerings on our church's website: the Verse of the Day series and Praying the Scriptures. Daily, the Verse of the Day will feature a Scripture passage intended to inspire, challenge, and comfort you throughout your daily routines. In Praying the Scriptures, Br. Kenny will present a thoughtfully chosen scripture passage twice each day, accompanied by a prayer that is both inspiring and emotionally enriching, designed to enrich both your morning and evening reflections.
These sections are designed to deepen your connection with God through the power of His Word, offering solace, guidance, and strength as we journey through each day. Whether you start your morning with us or wind down your evening, these readings are here to nourish your spirit and align your heart with divine wisdom. Join us twice daily to refresh your soul and reinforce your faith through the beauty of prayerful scripture.
Br. Kenny Sallee, a respected theologian and passionate teacher with a Master’s degree in Theology, has provided thoughtful commentaries to help us delve deeper into the meaning of each passage. His insights will help us explore Scripture more profoundly and draw practical applications for our daily lives.
Br. Kenny encourages us to embrace these Scriptures in our daily prayers, not merely as requests for relief but as expressions of thanks to God, who cares deeply for our well-being. By doing so, we allow God's peace to shield our hearts and minds, helping us face life's challenges with a grounded and steadfast spirit.
We invite you to read Br. Kenny's full commentary and prayers on our website and reflect on how you can incorporate these beautiful Scriptures into your life. Let's continue to support each other in faith, prayer, and thanksgiving as we seek to live out God's word each day.
May God's peace be with you all,
Is your life affected by someone’s drinking? Your child, a parent, your spouse, or a friend.
Al-Anon is a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who meet weekly to share their experience, strength, and hope as they seek to learn how to take care of themselves.
Al-Anon is an anonymous, spiritual fellowship that does not have outside affiliations with other organizations.
Starting May 6th, Seeking Serenity AFG meetings are each Monday from 11:30 am-12:30 pm in
St Luke’s Episcopal Church parish hall, with an entrance on Spruce St., is located at 419 W. Spruce St, Deming.
For more information, please call 757-936-0285.
Donations Needed
…”For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was naked and you clothed me…” Mt 25:35
There are two key outreach centers in Deming that greatly appreciate donations—Silver Linings and Colores United. Please bring your donations to St. Luke’s to receive a blessing, after which Deacon Sandy will deliver them to these programs. To assist the homeless, consider supporting Silver Linings.
Silver Linings is a comprehensive resource center focused on aiding the local homeless population. It provides essential services such as shower facilities, a laundry room, and a variety of necessary items, including clothing, toiletries, bedding, portable food, and pet supplies. The center also offers counseling services and serves hot meals from Monday through Thursday. Additionally, there is an outdoor space where guests can rest, dine, and find a safe environment to unwind. If you're interested in volunteering, Silver Linings is always in need of helping hands.
For those interested in aiding young mothers and their infants, Colores United is an excellent choice.
Colores United requires donations of baby formula, bottles, pacifiers, sippy cups, diapers in sizes 5 through 7, diaper rash cream, wipes, baby socks, and clothing from newborn to 24 months. For the mothers, items such as body wash, lotion, shampoo, and conditioner are needed.
If you wish to contribute to children's education, the Senior Center runs a Foster Grandparent program. This initiative involves background checks and fingerprinting, costs for which are covered by the center. Foster grandparents provide various forms of assistance to students within schools.
Additionally, if you have empty 1-gallon water jugs or bottles with screw-on caps, you can donate them to the church for the Border Justice Project. This search and rescue group refills these containers with fresh water to aid migrants in distress.
Small Group Bible Study
This fall, Br. Kenny Sallee will be hosting a small group Bible study. Br. Kenny, a respected theologian and passionate teacher with a Master’s degree in Theology, currently serves as a teaching assistant for Biblical Interpretations courses under Professor Ray Vander Laan at Christian Leaders Institute—an online educational platform providing free and affordable training in ministry, theology, and biblical studies for aspiring Christian leaders. He will guide the group through Ray Vander Laan's study series, That The World May Know. This series offers an immersive exploration of the Bible, blending rigorous academic research with stunning on-location footage from significant biblical sites. Vander Laan, a noted historian and biblical scholar, brings the scriptures to life, connecting ancient contexts with contemporary applications. This study aims to deepen understanding and encourage practical application of biblical teachings in daily Christian life, providing a visually and spiritually enriching experience. For a sneak preview of the videos in these studies, visit the church's website under the Bible Study section.
Deacon Tom's Missionary trip to Jaboncillo, Mexico
In April, Deacon Tom embarked on a memorable missionary journey to Jaboncillo, a humble community nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Coahuila, Mexico, not far from Texas' Big Bend National Park. This region, known for its majestic mountains rising sharply from the flatlands, provided a serene backdrop for their altruistic mission.
The journey began with a distinctive crossing of the Rio Grande, where Deacon Tom and his group opted for a modest boat ride, a memorable start to their adventure. Their ultimate destination was Jaboncillo, a quaint village some 45 minutes from the nearest town of Boquillas, reachable only via a rugged dirt road.
The mission team was a diverse group, led by Rusty, head of the non-profit Boquillas and Beyond. Rusty, a retired contractor, brought his expertise along with his sister-in-law Sharon from Texas. They were joined by Ana Reza, a staff member from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, who played a crucial role in translating and bridging the cultural gap.
Their companion, Pastor Angel Garibay, had separate commitments in Durango, Mexico, but joined the mission in Jaboncillo, where he shared his passion for music and education. Angel’s evenings were spent strumming his guitar and teaching the local children and women, filling the village with melodies and laughter.
The primary objective of their mission was to renovate the local junior high school. They planned to install a new ceiling and give the interiors a fresh coat of paint. Despite the labor-intensive days, the group fostered community spirit through various engaging activities. One evening was marked by a communal dinner accompanied by a film projection on the side of a building, where everyone—children and adults alike—delighted in roasting marshmallows under the starlit sky.
A highlight was the celebration that included a piñata and gifts for every member of the community, bringing smiles and joy to many faces. The team also immersed themselves in the local customs, engaging with the community members who primarily worked in cattle raising and conservation.
On a spiritual note, the mission was punctuated with moments of reflection and prayer. Rusty, with simple wafers and grape juice, led a session explaining the Eucharist, deeply rooted in Biblical teachings, while Deacon Tom delivered a homily that resonated with the congregation. The mission concluded with an Evening Prayer at the local Catholic Church, a bilingual service that brought the community and the missionaries closer in faith and fellowship.
The mission, funded partly by the missionaries themselves and partly by the Rio Grande Borderland Ministry, was not only a testament to their dedication but also a beacon of hope and solidarity for the people of Jaboncillo. Plans were already afoot for a return in October, aiming to renovate the floors of the Baptist Church in Boquillas, with Ana gearing up to involve university students in the next mission.
This journey, though marked by the heat of the Mexican sun, was cooled by the warmth of community and camaraderie, leaving an indelible mark on both the visitors and the villagers of Jaboncillo.
St. Luke's Fall Rummage Sale
Join us this October in the fellowship hall for our eagerly anticipated fall rummage sale! We're now accepting donations of gently used items. If you need help with packing or transporting your donations, Ginny Sallee is here to assist. Please call 906-367-4251 if you require assistance or have any questions. Don't miss this opportunity to declutter and support your church community!
We are trying to put a monthly Newsletter together and get it out to our congregation and put it on the website as well.
Subscribe to our Monthly Newsletter HERE.
If you have any news to add to the newsletter please email it to: msginnyisd@yahoo.com
By the last Friday of the month.
The church's website is up and running. It is still a work in progress, and we will be adding to it and making improvements as we go. Please feel free to check it out at www.StLukesdeming.org
Click on the image above to explore an inspiring Daily Devotion. Each morning, Br. Kenny Sallee shares an uplifting and soul-stirring message to start your day. A new Daily Devotion is posted daily on St Luke’s Facebook Page and can also be read on St Luke’s website.
Happy Birthday greetings to
August 1- Ginny Sallee
August 6- Fanny Smyer
August 21- Gary Burmiester
God's Blessings to you all !
**Potluck Time is Coming Again!**
As people return from their vacations, we're excited to announce the start of our monthly potlucks! Beginning on the first Sunday in September, we'll gather each month through the winter and into spring.
Having worked as a hostess at a senior center in California, Deacon Sandy learned the importance of safe food handling through a course she took. While much of the information was familiar, Sandy gained new insights as well. The key takeaway: keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold, even during transportation. Certain foods are particularly susceptible to bacterial growth, such as dishes with eggs, meat or chicken, mayonnaise, and fish. It's crucial to use separate knives for meats/fish and fruits/veggies or thoroughly wash the knife between uses to avoid cross-contamination.
Some foods, like pies and cookies, transport well and are stable at room temperature. However, dishes containing whipped cream, milk, or sour cream should be kept cold until served, just like other cold dishes.
Gathering to share food and stories is a joy, and we look forward to enjoying these moments together!
Coffee and sweets are served all other Sundays after service, all in the fellowship hall.
Remember to follow us on our Facebook page at:
St.Luke’s Episcopal Church in Deming, NM
Also, our website @ stlukesdeming.org
AUGUST READINGS
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
Eleventh Sunday after Penetcost
August 4, 2024
2 Samuel 11:26—12:13a
Psalm 51:1-12
Ephesians 4:1-16
Gospel: John 6:24-35
The Transfiguration
August 6, 2024
Exodus 34:29-32
Psalm 99
2 Peter 1:13-21
Gospel: Luke 9:28-36
Twelfth Sunday after Penetcost
August 11, 2024
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33
Psalm 130
Ephesians 4:25—5:2
Gospel: John 6:35, 41-51
St. Mary the Virgin
August 15, 2024
Isaiah 61:10-11
Psalm 34
Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel: Luke 1:46-55
Thirteenth Sunday after Penetcost
August 18, 2024
1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14
Psalm 111
Ephesians 5:15-20
Gospel: John 6:51-58
St. Bartholomew
August 24, 2024
Deuteronomy 18:15-18
Psalm 91
1 Corinthians 4:9-15
Gospel: Luke 22:24-30
Fourteenth Sunday after Penetcost
August 25, 2024
1 Kings 8:[1, 6, 10-11] 22-30, 41-43
Psalm 84
Ephesians 6:10-20
Gospel: John 6:56-69