I write of New Year in an odd moment of time: the Church Year is about to turn as Advent starts; yet the dark of December before the lengthening of the days at the Winter Solstice is still to come, not to mention Christmas and the world’s New Year’s festivities on January 1^st. Jumbled as all the waitings and celebrations that we call “the holidays” are, there is at least one thing they have in common -- the sense of ending and beginning, the old passing away and the new coming. The old man of the 2010 giving way to the toddler of the 2011 symbolize this reality in one way, as does our habit of taking stock of the year that is past and making New Year’s resolutions -- even though we know we are likely soon to break them. What is curious about this time of year is that we experience endings and beginnings -- but know that we will do it all over again next year and the year after that, too. The possibility of real change and real newness are present in this time of year, yet the annual cycles repeat again and again, and often that which stays the same is much more obvious than that which is really new. As the French say: Plus ça change, plus le même chose –the more things change, the more they stay the same.

“If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” (II Corinthians 5:17). In these astounding words, St. Paul claims that in Christ something genuinely new has come into the world, despite all our cynicism to the contrary. With Christ come, and with us born into Christ in baptism, the
creation is transformed and we are, too. One who brings real newness, overcoming death itself with a new life that the world had never seen before. As the presence in this world of the creating and redeeming God, Jesus sets the cosmos on a new course, a course of life instead of death, a course of growth instead of repetition, a course that leads us to what “human eye has not seen nor ear heard” instead of more of the same old same old. That is the Good NEWs of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which we are privileged to receive and share with others. Things don't have to be the same as they always have been. Lives can change; worlds can change -- because the God who makes all things new has come into the world.

The date of Christmas was chosen by the Church of the 4th century A.D. to supplant a pagan New Year’s festival that fell on the Winter Solstice. A festival celebrating the rebirth of the sun god as the days began to lengthen was replaced by a celebration of the birth of God’s Son. The choice of this date was more than a way of getting rid of the competition. It is a reminder that the source of all real newness is in the baby whose birth we celebrate in these dark days -- the one gives new and lasting light and life, and who invites us into a new creation quite beyond our imagining.

May Christ make this year new for you!

Peace,

Jack

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From the Deacon’s Desk…

The ‘long green’ season is behind us. When Pentecost comes I always think of the long Pentecost season, roughly early June to end of November, 5 months in which it seems that nothing ‘of interest’ happens during it. At least, nothing that we celebrate liturgically.

This morning I learned that this Communiqué will cover Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany – 3 months in which a series of interesting events happen—especially Advent and Christmas. Preparing for something is exciting! During the green season it seems that we slow down and have time to ‘smell the roses’. During Advent everything seems to speed up, probably because we are so frantically trying to get so much done in time for the holidays.

Which of these words convey this time period to you? Exhausting – Stressful – Exciting – Hopeful – Anticipation – Joyous – None of the Above – All of the above.

Pam and Elaine reminded us this morning of the families we are supporting that would otherwise not have a holiday. There is a toy drive where I work. A friend is involved in providing toys for the children of inmates at the county jail. Advent and Christmas are indeed times when there is a special focus on those in need, and God is in the effort we make to reach out to them.

There are other extra things on our ‘to do’ lists, all of which can make us quite anxious. It sometimes feels as though there are more ‘to dos’ than time in which to do them, and we lose sight of why we are so busy. Yet God is in everything we do. Brother Lawrence, a 17^th century monk, found God in the dishes!

Brother Lawrence felt having a proper heart about tasks made every detail of his life possess surpassing value. "I began to live as if there were no one save God and me in the world." Brother Lawrence felt that he cooked meals, ran errands, scrubbed pots, and endured the scorn of the world alongside God. One of his most famous sayings refers to his kitchen:

"The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament.”¹

May you find a sense of God in all your busy-ness as you prepare for the holy gift that God is bringing to the world this Christmas. God is with us! Let us not forget.

May Christmas bring you happiness and joy, and may you have a blessed New Year!

In Christ,

Deacon Marge

¹Brother Lawrence, "The Practice of the Presence of God"

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Stewardship

Strengthening Our Roots

Thank You!

St. Francis’ Church is truly blessed by the parishioners and friends who have provided us with a giving intention so that we may begin our budget planning for 2011. There is joy in giving because our giving provides a place to spread the knowledge of God. This past year St. Francis’ Church has been able to keep our building structurally sound, provide spiritual nourishment in prayer and have continued to provide many opportunities for outreach, not only locally but throughout the world. If you are not presently pledging, please consider your participation in this Stewardship effort as a way of serving in our ministry at St. Francis’ Church. Thank you for returning the Intention Card. And remember, “if something happens,” we understand and you can change your pledge.

May God give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus. (Romans 15:5)

May God’s blessings be with you always,

The Stewardship Committee

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UPCOMING EVENTS FOR DECEMBER

Holiday Choral Concert Soloists:

Christ Church Choir Diana Whitener, Soprano

New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra Giulia Utz, Contralto

John Sheridan, Conductor William Ambert, Tenor

Frederick Fischer, Baritone

Sunday, December 12, 7 p.m.

Tickets: $18/adults, $15/students and seniors

Vivaldi: Gloria

Bach: Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland (BWV 61)

Handel: Messiah (Christmas Portion)

Find out more about worship, education, outreach and other offerings at Christ Church. Check out the organ on the web: Richards, Fowkes & Co. Opus 12. Find out more about dining and other events in downtown New Brunswick: New Brunswick City Market.

Christ Church, 5 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

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The 1st Annual Cathedral Lock-In

December 10-11, 2010

Trinity Cathedral in Trenton, NJ

For 6-12 graders and their adult sponsors, $30 per person, featuring a concert by THE SUPER AWESOME Charles Milling Band! And an incredible project together with STOP HUNGER NOW (along with pizza, games, movies, and more)

If you have any questions or need any more information, please contact me anytime. Register at newjerseyyouth.org

See you soon! Peace,

Kep

Canon Kep Short, Director of Youth Ministry

Diocese of New Jersey

808 West State Street

Trenton, NJ 08618

Phone: 877-394-5281 x36

Fax: 609-394-9546

E-mail to: kshort@newjersey.anglican.org

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Pray Without Ceasing: Experiencing the Daily Office (overnight silent retreat) - December 3-4 (for all)

Leaders: Julia Slayton, M.Div., Executive Director, Bethany House, Arlington, Massachusetts; Mary Meader, D. Min., Experienced Spiritual Director & Retreat Leader

Perhaps worship begins as a song of love. Like most love stories there is joy and amazement, sorrow and distance, brokenness and healing, waiting and mystery. This Advent, how might you renew and remember the song deep within that is yours and ours in Christ? How might we prepare our hearts to worship throughout the day? As the Jesuit, Pedro Arrupe wrote, “Nothing is more practical than finding God, that is, than falling in love in a quite absolute, final way. What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination … will decide everything.” Come explore the mystery of this season and the song of the beloved forming itself in you this Advent. We’ll pray our way through the day together with practices ancient and new. Meditations, silence, rest, prayers, shared reflections and worship will guide our Advent retreat.

Meditations will be led by Julia Slayton and Mary Meader, founders of the Bethany House of Prayer, spiritual directors and retreat leaders. The Rev. Philip Carr-Jones will share with Mary and Julia in offering opportunities for reflection, prayer and worship. The serene setting of the Convent, with an opportunity to share worship with the Sisters, is a perfect place to begin the new Church year. Sponsored by the Right Onward Visioning Committee.

When: Friday, December 3 at 5 pm to Saturday, December 4 at 4 pm Cost: $75 per person, dinner, continental breakfast and lunch provided. Where: St. Marguerite’s Retreat House, Community of St. John Baptist, 82 West Main Street, Mendham, New Jersey 07945 - 973 543-4641 ext. 100. Deadline: By Friday, November 26. Overnight registration is limited please register early. Commuting/non-resident attendees are also welcome.

Or email spaige@newjersey.anglican.org. Or fax registration form to 609 394-9546, mail form, or phone Sarah Paige, 609 394-5281, ext. 10.

Contact: Annette Buchanan, 732 918-8023 or annbuc2000@cs.com or the Reverend Sheelagh Clarke, 908 317-5424 or sheelaghclarke@hotmail.com

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Youth Ministry Adult Workshop: Using Film and Media with Youth - December 15 (for all, especially those in youth ministry). Speaker: Susan Peek, Buffalo, New York

We all know that today’s generation of youth are tech and media savvy. How can we use some of these tools (particularly film) to engage our youth and help create good programs? Susan Peek will join us and provide resources and tools to easily find and use various media for youth ministry. No expertise is required. Come and bring your creativity and open mind!

When: Wednesday, December 15 from 6:30 to 9 pm

Cost: None, dinner provided.

Where: Diocesan House, 808 West State Street, Trenton, New Jersey 08618. Tel. 609 394-5281

Deadline: By Monday, December 13

Register online at newjerseyyouth.org or to dclarke@newjersey.anglican.org. Or fax registration form to 609 394-9546, mail form, or phone the Reverend Debi Clarke, Deacon, 609 394-5281, ext. 37.

Contact The Reverend Debi Clarke, Deacon, 609 394-5281, ext. 37 or dclarke@newjersey.anglican.org

Susan Peek will provide resources and tools to easily find and use various media for youth ministry.

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10-Time Grammy Award Winners

Christian Vocal Jazz Group
'TAKE SIX'
Christmas Benefit Concert

Sun. Dec. 12 at 7:30 pm
Hunterdon Central High School
Flemington NJ
1 mile north of the Flemington circle

Tickets: $25

churchholyspirit.org or www.takesix.com

All proceed donated to Homeless Network and Good New Home for Women

It might be the parties. Or maybe it's the roasting of chestnuts. Or the caroling out in the snow. Whatever the reason, most people consider the holiday season to be the most wonderful time of the year. That's certainly the case among the members of Take 6, the a cappella group that has been mixing elements of jazz, gospel, R&B and vintage doo-wop for nearly 25 years. Winners of 10 GRAMMY® Awards, 10 Dove Awards, one Soul Train Award and two NAACP Image Awards, the group has made an indelible musical and cultural mark in the past quarter century - whatever the season.

Every member of this brilliant vocal team - Claude McKnight III, Mark Kibble, Joel Kibble, David Thomas, Dr. Cedric Dent and Alvin Chea - has held onto fond childhood memories of the holidays and made them a part of their adult lives. The timeless magic is very much a part of the their new holiday CD, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, a collection of seasonal favorites that are as heartwarming as a crackling fire and a festooned evergreen.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

December

Rebeca Alcantara – 12/2

Clinton O’Sullivan – 12/2

Tyler Morris – 12/3

Leslie Oliver – 12/3

Kelsey Pelliccia – 12/6

David Dunham – 12/8

Kashawn Geter – 12/9

Mae DeRogatis – 12/10

Daren Mayer – 12/10

Kaitlyn Meyer – 12/10

Mark Torzewski – 12/11

Beth Rojewski – 12/13

Corilyn Dessino – 12/17

Mary Pfeiffer – 12/21

Lauren Telesco – 12/24

Pam Maiolo – 12/24

Johnnie White – 12/25

Thomas Jackson – 12/26

Thomas D’Alessandro – 12/29

Timothy Tereman – 12/29

Angela Chernichowski – 12/31

January

Cecil Baker – 1/5

Christine Morris – 1/7

Percy Crowther – 1/12

Jason Pfeiffer – 1/12

Calvin King – 1/14

Jonathan Meyer – 1/14

Liana Boucek – 1/16

Norma Trimmer – 1/17

Anton Sinckler – 1/19

Patrick Ward – 1/26

Edith Peters – 1/27

February

Catherine Pfeiffer – 2/1

Joanna Torzewski – 2/3

Matthew Toke – 2/5

Daryl DeRogatis – 2/9

Andrew Boucek – 2/11

Joshua Doesburgh – 2/14

Joy King – 2/16

Jack Zamboni – 2/16

Jarrel Cudjoe – 2/21

Anthony DeRogatis – 2/21

Richard Trotman, Jr. – 2/21

Tiffany Cudjoe – 2/22

Samuela Crowther – 2/26

Doris McElvery – 2/26

ANNIVERSARY OF BAPTISM

December

Beth Chernichowski – 12/1

Sheila Connolly – 12/1

Maryann Doesburgh – 12/1

John Doesburgh – 12/1

Brian Morris – 12/7

Marc Manganaro – 12/16

January

Michael Connolly – 1/1

Francis Thomas – 1/1

Coral Brown – 1/5

Angela Chernichowski – 1/5

Susan D’Alessandro – 1/5

Briana DeCandia – 1/11

Mary Pfeiffer – 1/13

February

Leslie Oliver – 2/1

Geri Peters – 2/13

Casey Torzewski – 2/13

Keshawn Geter – 2/16

Kaitlyn Meyer – 2/16

ANNIVERSARY OF CONFIRMATION

December

Thomas D’Alessandro – 12/1

Richard Trotman – 12/3

Norma Tucker – 12/12

January

Allison York-Autin – 1/9

Nicholas Waskeil – 1/10

Mary Pfeiffer – 1/13

February

Kim Meyers – 2/1

Linda Ward-Arico – 2/24

Althea Heirholzer – 2/27

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

January

Benjamin & Lauren Avery – 1/5

February

Paul & Carline Sinckler – 2/2

Don & Cathy Hirsch – 2/6

Pete & Lauren Telesco – 2/16

James & Barbara Jaeger – 2/28

Sunday, Dec. 5^th – 2^nd Sunday of Advent

8 AM Lector - S/A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Norma Tucker, Nancy Dunham

Chalice - Lisa Webb, Norma Tucker

Ushers - Arthur McConney, Barbara O’Neill

Greeter - Norma Trimmer

Counters - Nancy Dunham, Pam Maiolo

Altar Guild - Audrey Johansen, Norma O’Sullivan, Sharon Benjamin, Natalie Edwards

Sunday, Dec. 12^th – 3^rd Sunday of Advent

8 AM Lector - Amy Myzie

Chalice - Paul Sinckler

Usher - Ed Myzie

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Elaine Patania, Leslie Oliver

Chalice - Princess Thomas, Elaine Patania

Ushers - Karen Williams, Geri Peters

Greeter - Leslie Oliver

Counters - Mary Pfeiffer, Waring Webb

Altar Guild - Barbara O’Neill, Norma Trimmer, Muriel Wilson

Sunday, Dec. 19^th – 4^th Sunday of Advent – Greening of the Church – ALL WELCOME!!

8 AM Lector - S/A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Lisa Webb, Pam Maiolo

Chalice - Tiffany O’Sullivan, Lisa Webb

Ushers - Arthur McConney, Pam Maiolo

Greeter - Barbara O’Neill

Counters - Amy Myzie, Elaine Patania

Altar Guild - Leslie Oliver, Pam Maiolo, Cordell Trotman

Friday, Dec. 24^th – Christmas Eve

4:30 PM Acolytes -

Lectors - Elaine Patania, Nancy Dunham

Chalice - Elaine Patania

Ushers - Barbara O’Neill, Tom Patania

Greeter - ALL PARISHIONERS

11:00 PM Acolytes -

Lectors - Lisa Webb, Leslie Oliver

Chalice - Norma Tucker, Tiffany O’Sullivan

Ushers - Karen Williams, Geri Peters

Greeter - ALL PARISHIONERS

Altar Guild - Leslie Oliver, Pam Maiolo, Cordell Trotman

Sunday, Dec. 26^th

8 AM Lector - Amy Myzie

Chalice - Paul Sinckler

Usher - Ed Myzie

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Norma Tucker, Elaine Patania

Chalice - Norma Tucker, Princess Thomas

Ushers - Leslie Oliver, Cordell Trotman

Greeter - Norma Trimmer

Counters - Pam Maiolo, Mary Pfeiffer

Altar Guild - Geri Peters, Karen Williams, Barbara Dalto

Sunday, Jan. 2^nd

8 AM Lector - S/A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Lisa Webb, Nancy Dunham

Chalice - Lisa Webb, Elaine Patania

Ushers - Karen Williams, Geri Peters

Greeter - Leslie Oliver

Counters - Waring Webb, Leslie Oliver

Altar Guild - Audrey Johansen, Norma O’Sullivan, Sharon Benjamin, Natalie Edwards

Sunday, Jan. 9^th

8 AM Lector - Amy Myzie

Chalice - Paul Sinckler

Usher - Ed Myzie

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Princess Thomas, Pam Maiolo

Chalice - Tiffany O’Sullivan, Norma Tucker

Ushers - Elaine & Tom Patania

Greeter - Audrey Johansen

Counters - Audrey McConney, Elaine Patania

Altar Guild - Barbara O’Neill, Norma Trimmer, Muriel Wilson

Sunday, Jan. 16^th

8 AM Lector - S.A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Leslie Oliver, Norma Tucker

Chalice - Princess Thomas, Lisa Webb

Ushers - Leslie Oliver, Cordell Trotman

Greeter - Norma Trimmer

Counters - Carroll Wilson, Amy Myzie

Altar Guild - Leslie Oliver, Pam Maiolo, Cordell Trotman

Sunday, Jan. 23^th

8 AM Lector - Amy Myzie

Chalice - Paul Sinckler

Usher - Ed Myzie

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Elaine Patania, Nancy Dunham

Chalice - Elaine Patania, Tiffany O’Sullivan

Ushers - Barbara O’Neill, Arthur McConney

Greeter - Barbara O’Neill

Counters - Nancy Dunham, Pam Maiolo

Altar Guild - Geri Peters, Karen Williams, Barbara Dalto

Sunday, Jan. 30^th

8 AM Lector - S/A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Princess Thomas, Pam Maiolo

Chalice - Lisa Webb, Norma Tucker

Ushers - Pam Maiolo, Elaine Patania

Greeter - Barbara O’Neill

Counters - Mary Pfeiffer, Waring Webb

Altar Guild - Audrey Johansen, Norma O’Sullivan, Sharon Benjamin, Natalie Edwards

Sunday, Feb. 6^th

8 AM Lector - Amy Myzie

Chalice - Paul Sinckler

Usher - Ed Myzie

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Norma Tucker, Leslie Oliver

Chalice - Princess Thomas, Tiffany O’Sullivan

Ushers - Karen Williams, Geri Peters

Greeter - Audrey Johansen

Counters - Audrey McConney, Paul Sinckler

Altar Guild - Barbara O’Neill, Norma Trimmer, Muriel Wilson

Sunday, Feb. 13^th

8 AM Lector - S/A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Elaine Patania, Nancy Dunham

Chalice - Elaine Patania, Norma Tucker

Ushers - Leslie Oliver, Cordell Trotman

Greeter - Leslie Oliver

Counters - Amy Myzie, Elaine Patania

Altar Guild - Leslie Oliver, Pam Maiolo, Cordell Trotman

Sunday, Feb. 20^th

8 AM Lector - Amy Myzie

Chalice - Paul Sinckler

Usher - Ed Myzie

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Lisa Webb, Pam Maiolo

Chalice - Lisa Webb, Princess Thomas

Ushers - Elaine & Tom Patania

Greeter - Barbara O’Neill

Counters - Leslie Oliver, Waring Webb

Altar Guild - Geri Peters, Karen Williams, Barbara Dalto

Sunday, Feb. 27^th

8 AM Lector - S/A Benjamin

Chalice - Norma Tucker

Usher - Carroll Wilson

10 AM Acolytes -

Lectors - Princess Thomas, Leslie Oliver

Chalice - Norma Tucker, Tiffany O’Sullivan

Ushers - Barbara O’Neill, Arthur McConney

Greeter - Norma Trimmer

Counters - Mary Pfeiffer

Altar Guild - Audrey Johansen, Nora O’Sullivan, Sharon Benjamin, Natalie Edwards

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December 2010
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
*28 -1^st Sunday of Advent* 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	29 *Grace’s Kitchen*	30	1 Noon – Book Group 1 PM – Craft Group – final meeting!! 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	2	3 7:30 PM – Country Dancing 5 PM Friday to 4 PM Saturday - Pray Without Ceasing - St John the Baptist, Medham	4
5 -2^nd Sunday of Advent 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery COME! Meeting after Church	6	7 6:30 PM - Women’s Christmas Party	8 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	9	10 7:30 PM – Country Dancing 1st Annual Cathedral Lock-in - for 6th thru 12th graders	11
12-3^rd Sunday of Advent 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery 7:30 PM – Benefit Concert, Flemington	13	14 7 PM – Vestry Meeting	15 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir 6:30 PM – Youth Ministry Adult Workshop - Trenton	16	17 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	18
19-4^th Sunday of Advent 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery Greening of the Church	20	21	22 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	23	24 Christmas Eve	25 – Christmas Day
26 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	27 Grace’s Kitchen	28	29 7:30 PM – A.A.	30	31 New Year’s Eve

January 2011
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
						1 New Year’s Day
2 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	3	4	5 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	6	7 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	8
9 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery COME! Meeting after Church	10	11	12 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	13	14 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	15
16 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	17	18	19 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	20	21 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	22
23- ANNUAL MEETING 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery 30	24 Grace’s Kitchen 31	25	26 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	27	28 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	29

February 2011
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
		1	2 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	3	4 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	5
6 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	7	8	9 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	10	11 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	12
13 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery COME! Meeting after Church 3:30 – Little Big Band Concert	14 Valentine’s Day	15	16 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	17	18 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	19
20 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	21	22 7 PM – Vestry Meeting	23 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	24	25 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	26
27 8 AM – Holy Eucharist 10 AM – Choral Eucharist, Sunday School & Nursery	28 Grace’s Kitchen	1	2 Noon – Book Group 7:30 PM – A.A. 7:30 PM – Choir	3	4 7:30 PM – Country Dancing	5

Monthly FISH Donation

2010/2011

JULY

Peanut Butter/Jelly

AUGUST

School supplies

SEPTEMBER

Cereal

Cold/Hot

OCTOBER

Milk

powdered or

Parmalat box

NOVEMBER

Canned Vegetables

DECEMBER

Your choice

JANUARY

Pasta/sauce

FEBRUARY

baby food/supplies

MARCH

Juice

APRIL

Paper goods

Napkins/paper towels

Toilet paper

MAY

canned/jarred fruit

JUNE

Your choice

The suggestions for each month are just suggestions for donation. You may give any food or personal product at anytime.
Please remember to check expiration dates on the food that you donate. All products with expired dates will be discarded.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION

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Nominating Committee Seeks Nominations for Parish Offices

According to St. Francis’ Bylaws, the Nominating Committee consists of the vestry members whose terms are coming to an end. This year, those are Amy Myzie (currently Senior Warden), Elaine Patania, Cynthia Pelliccia and Carroll Wilson. They are seeking nominees to fill parish offices for election at the Annual Parish Meeting, which will be held on Sunday, January 24^th, 2010.

Nominations are being sought for the following offices and a member of the Nominating Committee may well ask you to consider serving! A brief description of each of office follows:

1 Sr. Warden (2 year term)

Along with the Junior Warden, the Senior Warden serves as a senior lay official of the parish. The Wardens act as a council of advice to the Vicar on matters of parish life and ministry, serve as leaders of the congregation, oversee the physical plant, and may call and lead Vestry meetings in the Vicar’s absence when necessary.

3 Vestry members (3 year Term)

The Vestry, made up of 9 Vestry members, the two Wardens and the Vicar, who is the Chair, serves as the board of trustees of the congregation. The Vestry is the body that, according to state and canon law, has legal responsibility for financial and physical affairs of the parish, but is also a community of spiritual leaders. While the canons give final authority over some matters of parish life to the Vicar alone (for instance, worship and education), the Vestry serves an important role of shared leadership with the Vicar for the overall life and ministry of the parish. Vestry members often take responsibility for or assist in one area of the parish’s operations. Vestry members show leadership by example and participation in the worship and ongoing life of the parish, and in their stewardship of time, talent, and treasure. Communication is another important function of the Vestry.

3 Delegates and 3 Alternates to Diocesan Convention (1 year term)

Three Delegates along with clergy from each congregation attend the Annual Convention of the Diocese of New Jersey every year (Alternates replace Delegates if they are unable to attend.) At Convention, Delegates vote in elections for offices such as Diocesan Council and Standing Committee (which, between them, exercise responsibilities for the Diocese similar to those of a Vestry in a congregation); Deputies to the General Convention of the Episcopal Church; Treasurer of the Diocese, and other offices. Convention also approves the diocesan Budget and votes on resolutions about the life and ministry of our Diocese. To prepare for the business of Convention, Delegates and Alternates are encouraged to read reports made available in advance of Convention on-line, and to attend one of several pre-Convention meetings held in different regions of the Diocese. Convention is also a time to share fellowship with others from around the Diocese of New Jersey, and visit exhibit booths. In 2011, the Convention will be a one-day event held Saturday, March 5^th 2011 in Collingswood. The Convention Eucharist will be held at Trinity Cathedral on Friday, March 4^th at 7:00 PM.

6 Delegates to Watchung Convocation (1 year term)

The Diocese of New Jersey is sub-divided into eight geographical Convocations. St. Francis’ belongs to the Watchung Convocation, made up of congregations in southern Hunterdon County, northern Somerset County and western portions of Middlesex and Union Counties. Clergy and delegates gather for a Sunday afternoon or weekday evening meeting once each Spring and Fall at a date and place TBA.

Convocation delegates elect a Dean for the Convocation (currently, the Dean of Watchung Convocation is the Very Rev. Ron Pollack, Rector of St. John’s, Somerville); as well as one clergy and lay member of the diocesan Nominating Committee and the Board of Missions (Debbie Santucci of St. Francis’ is currently the lay representative from the Watchung Convocation to the Board of Missions). Convocation meetings are also an occasion to make connections with the wider Church of which we are part. Bishop Councell usually attends the fall meeting of each Convocation.

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Editor’s Note: Debbie Santucci and Norma Tucker visited St. James, Edison in October; they wanted to share their excitement over the good and growing ministry happening in another mission congregation – food for thought, as we are seeking to do the same kind of thing in our own way. Read thoroughly – ideas abound!!

VISITATION REPORT, NOVEMBER 9, 2010

ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Growing Disciples of Christ...To Share His Word With the World:

Through Music, Outreach, and Evangelism

Founded in 1704, St. James Edison is a beautiful wooden sanctuary building bordered by a historic cemetery (owned by the township of Edison). Inside the church is bright and peaceful and the 30 folks at the 10:00 am service were a somewhat diverse bunch whose caring for one and other, and the newcomer, was palpable. The church felt full.

Edison Township in Middlesex County has about 100,000 residents, making it the 5^th largest municipality in NJ. 4.8% of the population lives below the poverty line (2007 estimate). 4.3% of these are under 18 and 6.3% are 65 or over.

In the 2000 census, 56% of Edison residents identified themselves as white, 17.75% as Indian American, 9% Asian American, 7% African American and 6% Hispanic or Latino. This was the highest percentage of Indian American people of any place in the US.

“To all who need comfort - To all who need friendship – To all who are lonely and need companionship – To all who want sheltering Love – To those who sin and need a savior – To those who would serve a Living God – Whoever will – This church opens wide its doors and in the Name of Jesus says... WELCOME!”

Edison Township's motto is “Let There Be Light”. St. James Edison is an answer to that call, a catalyst for positive change. The church functions from its solid core of intimacy, connectivity, and radical presence for one and other and the community at large. Generosity in giving of time, treasure and talent by these folks (and ability to boost Sunday attendance to 47.4 from 39.4 last year) demonstrate their commitment to St. James' future. Establishing conversation and inquiry with Indian American and Asian American communities is a priority.

St. James varied and widespread advertising efforts are impressive. Follow-up on visitors is exhaustive. But nothing says “St. James Episcopal Church” to the people of Edison like Hands of Hope at St. James. 7367 people were served a hot lunch between July 2009 and June 2010, 2954 of whom were children. This July, August, and September 1495 more children were served.

The ministry is “way over expectations in size” according to the vestry and as it grows so will St. James Edison's commitment and support of their community. The community (local businesses, town council, schools, and other churches) supports the food bank effort as well. This synergy makes the food pantry self supporting and happens to add value to the property as well. Grants to the parish hall which houses the food program have resulted in an accessibility ramp and ADA compliant bathrooms and next year will partially cover a new furnace. As the town council president is a friend of the church, the much-anticipated land-swap between St. James and the township is likely to take place. This will allow the church to have land adjoining the sanctuary on which to expand its soup kitchen and food pantry. Utilizing their present facility to the utmost, last year’s coat drive elicited 600 coats to fill the sanctuary pews and then those pews were filled again with toys for needy children at Christmas.

Special liturgies welcome the stranger. A 20-minute service to “feed them with hope” precedes the twice monthly hot lunches. Parishioners are on hand to greet clients and chat with them. A separate POW MIA Memorial Service drew an entirely different demographic and the sound of motorcycles to St. James. The Blessing of the Animals for the St. Francis liturgy this year had a promising attendance: one-third were St. James members and two-thirds were folks drawn from the community.

New toddlers and preschoolers have vestry members eager for a burgeoning Sunday School. My guess is, they will have one. On the Sunday of my visit a toddler walked around on the altar and was given pieces of bread by a choir member. On some Sundays the child, who belongs to the organist, walks right alongside Father Bill as he gives communion. When I asked about this, I was told the policy is that children are unrestricted and that this began “two priests ago”. The simple explanation: “We want them to be a part of the Church”.

To all who need comfort – Let There Be Light.

Respectfully submitted by,

Deborah Santucci

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Sunday School

All ages have donned smocks and participated in painting our Christmas mural for the bulletin board in Milbank Hall.

In December we decorate our Sunday School tree and light the candles in our Advent wreath one by one as we prepare for Jesus' birthday.

On December 19 we will present our basket of donations to flood victims in Pakistan at the altar in church, and we will place symbols on the Jesse Tree while brief explanations of their significance are read.

Our young people ages 6 and up will spend some of our story time learning about THE St. Nicholas who, we're told, was particularly interested in the welfare of children in need.

We look forward to worshiping together at the children's service on Christmas Eve. We pray that many will be with us then.

Barbara Dalto

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DATES TO REMEMBER

Save Tuesday, Dec. 7^th,

6:30 PM for the Women’s Christmas Party. All women of St. Francis – and their female friends and family! – are invited to this annual event. Bring a dish to share, a wrapped gift worth about $15 for the gift table, and be prepared to have a lot of fun!

After the 10 AM service on Sunday, Dec. 19^th, the congregation is invited to assist the altar guild with the annual “Greening of the Church” for Christmas. Poinsettias, evergreens, garlands, etc. will be placed around the church in anticipation of the Christmas services. More hands make shorter work!

The Vestry will meet on Tuesday, Dec. 14^th, & Tuesday, Feb. 21^st at 7 PM for their monthly meeting. The January meeting will likely be the week of 1/10, but the exact date is to be determined.

Friday, Dec. 24^th, is Christmas Eve. We will have our usual Family Service at 4:30 PM, the Choral Sing at 10:30, which blends into the Midnight Mass at 11 PM. If you’re attending the 11 PM service, come early and hear the choir and join in some “old favorites” before we celebrate the First Mass of Christmas.

Our Annual Meeting, as designated in the Church by-laws, will be held on Sunday, January 23^rd, following the 10 AM service. Sign-up sheets will be available in the Narthex for potluck lunch.

Mark your calendar!! Bring your Valentine - February 13 @ 3pm - A fund raising concert will be held at St. Francis by the Lil' Big Band. This is a repeat performance by this 9-piece jazz band. Last May they entertained us with selections from the 30's, 40's & 50's and will do so again. Come out & enjoy some great swing from musicians on the NJ music circuit. Tickets are $10 including light refreshments.

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Thank you to:

· Cynthia Pelliccia for her organization & set up of the Women's annual Christmas Party.

· Amy Myzie for coordinating the sanctuary repair and paint project.

· Elaine Patania & Carroll Wilson for organizing a successful stewardship campaign.

· Amy Myzie and her sous chef Vin Maiolo for a wonderful pancake breakfast.

· Barbara Dalto, group leader & the St. Francis Crafters for their time and effort in providing some wonderful Christmas items for our holiday sale table.

· All parishioners who have so generously given to our Adopt-a-Family project & our "gently used" coat collection.

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Outreach

Jersey Cares Coat Drive - The 15th Annual Jersey Cares Coat drive is underway. This year’s goal is to collect & distribute 50,000 "gently used" winter coats to men, women, children & infants in need. Collection will take place here at St. Francis until Dec. 12th and brought to a central collection point. Coats can be of any size & should be clean & in good condition. A box will be in the Narthex for your donation.

FISH - December donation is "your choice". Please check expiration dates. Expired items will be discarded. Looking ahead to January -pasta & sauce; February - Baby food & supplies. These are suggested donations. All donations are gratefully accepted.

Grace's Kitchen - November 29th & December 27th are our next dates to serve at this community soup kitchen. Future dates - January 31st & Feb 28th. Food preparation begins at 10am. We begin serving guests at 11:30am & are on our way home at 1pm. Please join us in this most worthwhile outreach program. Questions?? See Pam Maiolo.

Episcopal Relief & Development - Still don't know what to buy for the relative or friend on your Christmas list. They have everything, but you want to acknowledge them in some way. Well, here is the solution. An opportunity to say Merry Christmas and also help someone who REALLY DOES have a need. Gifts may be designated in honor of that special someone on your list. Online donations may be made at http://www.er-d.org, or call 800.334.7626, ext. 5129, or mail a check to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Adopt-a-Family - A gift tree has been placed in the Narthex for local families in need at this holiday season. Please take a tag off the tree & return your unwrapped donation along with the tag to the box in the Narthex by Dec 19th.

St. Barnabas on the Field, Liberia - Thanks to all who welcomed Robert Bomba & his wife Christiana when they visited St. Francis last month. Prayer books, hymnals & general reading materials were given to Robert for use at St. Barnabas. Robert packed & shipped the material to Liberia & will distribute it when he arrives there for holiday.

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Craft Group

We will complete our projects on December 1^st and offer them for sale on Sundays, December 5, 12, and 19. We believe you will find them to be reasonably priced and appropriate for gifts and stocking stuffers. We hope you enjoy our wares as much as we've enjoyed crafting them.

Barbara Dalto

Book Group

On Wednesdays, December 1 and 8, following our respite into turkey land, we will resume with a light Christmas selection, "Skipping Christmas" by John Grisham. This is a humorous look at the holiday madness which so often overshadows the true significance of the season.

On December 15 we will enjoy lunch out together. You are welcome to join us. Time and place to be announced.

On January 5, following our holiday break, we will begin "Son of Laughter" by Frederick Buechner, an intelligent retelling of the story of Jacob, son of Isaac, son of Abraham.

Please join us at noon on Wednesdays in Milbank Hall.

For information call Barbara Dalto

Choir Vestments

Former parishioner and LONG time choir member Nellie Reid, who passed away in February 2010, left a sum of money to the Church to be used as the Vestry saw fit. They in turn granted the senior choir permission to purchase new vestments and stoles. On November 14^th, the day that would have been Nellie’s 102^nd birthday, the new vestments were blessed and dedicated for use in St. Francis. The choir believes the new royal blue robes with reversible gold-&-white satin stoles are a nice change from the standard red we’ve used for years – but we still have the red vestments for use when needed. Thank you, Vestry!

…ST. FRANCIS’ EPISCOPAL CHURCH

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SERVING THE CHURCH DURING DECEMBER

Sunday, Dec. 5^th – 2^nd Sunday of Advent

SERVING THE CHURCH JANUARY

SERVING THE CHURCH DURING FEBRUARY

Monthly FISH Donation

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

…ST. FRANCIS’ EPISCOPAL CHURCH

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SERVING THE CHURCH DURING DECEMBER

Sunday, Dec. 5th – 2nd Sunday of Advent

SERVING THE CHURCH JANUARY

SERVING THE CHURCH DURING FEBRUARY

Monthly FISH Donation

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

Sunday, Dec. 5^th – 2^nd Sunday of Advent