Uganda Mission Update (3-24-2025)

Kurt Spitzer, Team Member

Your Uganda Mission Team left Tallahassee at 1:00 PM on March 18, 2025.  27 hours later, we landed in Entebbe, Uganda, where we received a very warm welcome from Bishop Nason Baluku of the Anglican Diocese of South Rwenzori.  After spending the night in nearby Kampala, we traveled the next day to Kasese, where the Diocesan offices are located.  

As were approach Kasese, we stopped alongside the road to be greeted by Priests and members of the Diocesan staff, enthusiastically singing “Praise the Lord!”  The heartfelt greeting more than made up for the eight-hour drive on roads with some potholes that seemed large enough to swallow up a car!  Later that evening, we had dinner at the Bishop’s house with a Diocesan Archdeacon, Parrish Priests and staff.

South Rwenzori is an area plagued by devastating poverty, high unemployment and numerous children without one or both parents.  The Diocese has made it its goal to address those problems through the teachings of Christ, education and better parenting skills.

The purpose of the Mission is to assess the needs in South Rwenzori and to maintain our relationship with the Diocese.  That effort began in earnest on March 21st when we met with the Young Mothers Group Nyakahya at St. Matthews Parish.   In addition to praying and studying the Bible, the purpose of the Group is to give the young mothers encouragement, to develop skills such as tailoring, weaving, making soap, and saving and credit, to help become self-reliant.  The Young Mothers group was extremely grateful for the support of St, Peters and its parishioners.

On Saturday, March 21st, the Team attended a conference of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) at the Kamaiba Youth Center.  Father Herb addressed the youth on Christian Rebellion, which was followed by the other four Team Members discussing Bravery, Trust, Strength and Loyalty.  Deacon Colangelo addressed the parents and guardians on Parenting in the Bible, which was followed by presentations by Patty Lang and Kurt Spitzer on Godly parenting.

Later in the day the children were provided with gift bags from St. Peters.  The Team helped the children make Rosaries from beads provided by St. Peters.

On Sunday March 23rd, we traveled to the Kikyo Anglican Church, where Deacon Preston preached to an overflow crowd of more than 200 people.  After that we traveled to the Bwera Secondary School, which is operated by the Diocese and regarded as the best secondary school in Uganda.  We met with the school administrators and Priests, learning about their programs and needs.  In addition of supporting the school, St. Peters and Tarmac (a non-profit founded by our own Susan Burton) sponsored the construction of two basketball courts, one of which is located at the Bwera School.    

St. Peters and the Diocese of South Rwenzori have had a long history together.  When Orthodox (Anglican) Churches left the Episcopal Church of the USA, the Archbishop of Canterbury allowed them to come under the jurisdiction of Orthodox Bishops in Africa.  St. Peters came under the authority of the Diocese of South Rwenzori until the Anglican Church of North America was formed.

The St. Peters Tean is composed of Father Herb Bailey and his wife Angel, Deacon Preston Colangelo, Missions Coordinator Patty Lang, and Kurt Spitzer.

Discipled Evangelism

Chuck Lang | Discipled Evangelism Core Captain

Dear St. Peters Family, I wanted to take a moment to talk about Discipled Evangelism—a term that you may have heard recently at St. Peter's. This is one of the “Core Missions” within our Missions team, alongside others such as Life, Prison, and Human Trafficking. Together, there are eight core missions that help shape how we serve and reach out to the world.

To understand Discipled Evangelism, let’s break down the term.

Discipled: As Christians, we are called to become disciples of Christ. A Christian disciple is someone who follows Jesus, is being transformed by Jesus, and is committed to His mission. Jesus told His followers to follow Him in Matthew 4:19, and through this discipleship, we are taught and transformed to become more like Christ. Evangelism: For many, evangelism can be an uncomfortable term. It can remind us of people who might not be loving in their approach, or of individuals who come knocking on our doors to try to convert us to beliefs that aren’t aligned with the Gospel. However, for Christians, evangelism is simply the act of sharing the Gospel—the Good News of Jesus Christ—with others so they can come to know Him as Lord and Savior.

The Gospel, or Good News, is central to everything we do as Christians. The bad news is that every person has a sin problem that separates them from God (Romans 3:23). Fr. Petty’s sermon recorded on 3/9/25 is a great resource for understanding our sin problem. The Good News is that Jesus, the Son of God, came to Earth, lived the perfect life, took our sins upon Himself, and died on the cross to pay for our sins so we could have eternal life with Him in Heaven. When we put our trust in Jesus for our salvation, it is life-changing (Romans 10:9-15). Trusting Jesus alone for salvation is what makes us Christians.

If you are unsure whether you have made this trust commitment, or if you think good deeds are part of the equation, I encourage you to speak with one of our priests, our prayer team, Ben Munroe, me, or a trusted Christian friend. We’re here to help you understand the importance of trusting Jesus alone for salvation.

Evangelism is essential to everything we do at St. Peters. From our wonderful Children’s Ministry to caring for widows and the under-resourced, we intentionally share the Good News through our actions and words. Part of the Discipled Evangelism mission is to help every ministry at St. Peters share the Gospel through their ministry. For example, Susan Burton runs a Christian basketball camp where she teaches children athletic skills and life lessons, but what truly differentiates her camp is that she shares the Gospel, the life-changing message of Jesus, with the children she serves.

Discipled Evangelism takes this one step further. Its primary goal is to teach others how to lovingly and confidently share the Gospel with their friends, family, and the world. As 1 Peter 3:15 says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Part two of this article will run next week so be sure to check it out! If anyone has any questions in the interim they can reach out to Chuck Lang, Fr. Herb, or Ben Munroe. Together, let’s share the Good News with the world!

At St. Peters, Discipled Evangelism is teaching people to share the Good News of Jesus with family, friends and all the world! Jesus spent about three years discipling the 12 Apostles. His mission wasn’t just to prepare a place in Heaven for twelve men—it was to prepare a place in Heaven for ALL people (John 14:2-4). Jesus lived out the Gospel and taught His disciples how to pass it on to others. The early church was a great example of Discipled Evangelism. Had the 12 Apostles shared the Gospel but not taught others to do the same, Christianity would have ended after one generation. But because they shared the Gospel with others, and those people in turn shared it, the message spread, and here we are today—disciples of Christ.

Let me share a personal story to illustrate the power of Discipled Evangelism. A group of men shared the Gospel with me in my 20’s and it radically changed my life. As a result, the Gospel is being shared with all who read this article. That group of men were told about Jesus by others who were told about Jesus by someone else. It ultimately began with Jesus teaching His disciples. Isn’t that incredible? From Jesus to you here today!

So, this brings us to an important question: Why should Discipled Evangelism be important to you?

• Do you want your family and friends to join you in Heaven?
• Do you want them to experience the joy of knowing Jesus here on earth? • Are you comfortable sharing the Gospel with them in a way that is loving and compelling?
• Are you prepared to share your own faith story with them?

It’s okay if you answered “no” to the last two questions. That is why we are here. Many of us are in the same boat. I, for one, was not discipled in evangelism until many years after becoming a Christian. While I had spiritual conversations with friends, family, and co-workers, I had never been taught how to share the Gospel effectively. It wasn’t until a friend invited me to a class on evangelism that I began to learn how to share the Good News with others. That class began the second most important step of my faith journey—right behind my decision to receive Christ.

At St. Peter's, we want your friends and family to know Jesus in a saving way. Most people come to faith through relationships with others, not through a priest or a sermon. We want to help you become comfortable sharing your faith with your friends and family so God can reach them through you. We’re here to encourage and disciple you to share the Gospel in your own unique way, at your own pace. We don’t have all the answers, but we know that Jesus called us all to share the Good News.

Matthew 28:18-20: “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”

Resources for Discipled Evangelism:

• Fr. Herb is currently teaching a class on how to love your neighbor, with more classes to come.
• We’ll be hosting a Diocese-wide conference on sharing the Gospel in the future.
• There are excellent resources we can guide you to, such as “The God Test,” Evangelism Explosion, the FAITH outline, and Road to Romans, all great evangelism tools.
• Read your Bible every day—the New Testament is full of books sharing the Gospel. 1 John 5:13 says, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.”
• Get involved with the other Mission Cores so you can practice sharing the Gospel with actions and words. • If you’d like more information or just want to chat, feel free to contact Fr. Herb, me, or Ben Munroe. We’d love to sit down and talk with you over a cup of coffee or tea.

Together, let’s share the Good News with the world!

Man-To-Man

Written by Steve Gordon

Man-to-Man is a new and unique ministry at St. Peter’s, specifically for the men of the Cathedral (sorry, ladies…but read on…this may be perfect for your husband or adult sons). 

What is it?

We meet on a 1-on-1, confidential, relational discipleship format, and I believe it closes an important gap for us. We know we have a world-class disciple education program delivered through Adult Sunday School, Wednesday night classes, the Lay School of Theology, and more. We also have a rapidly growing small group discipleship effort, where you can meet with and be encouraged in your faith journey by a group of 5 to 10 friends as you explore God’s Word together. 

What’s missing is formal and intentional 1-on-1 discipleship. 

Over the last year before he died, Fred Thomson led a group of seven men through a 9-month discipleship experience to prepare them to disciple other men 1-on-1. The group includes Larry Gonzalez, Chuck Lang, Dr. Cal Melton, David Mica, Dick Stewart, Eric Stockstill, and me. 

It was Fred’s vision and one that I share that, in time, we create a “culture of discipleship”...and a practice of discipling one another at St. Peter’s in all three forms–classroom instruction, small groups, and 1-on-1. 

Why is it important? 

Jesus used all three forms of discipleship during his work on earth. He taught crowds. He worked in a small group of 12. He also taught, encouraged, and challenged his disciples through 1-on-1 interactions. It is in our 1-on-1 interactions that we are able to develop deep trust relationships. To lift one another up when needed, to explore deep and important questions together, and to confront our challenges.

What’s the Impact? 

Having experienced it, I can tell you the impact on you will be profound–profoundly good. Those around you will take note. More importantly, you will become a stronger light of Christ’s presence in a world that desperately needs it.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by

testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Romans 12: 2

Who is it for?

Ahh…here’s the rub. We’re a stubborn and stiff-necked lot. We don’t like asking for directions, and we’d rather not admit we “need” help. We’ve got this, right, gentlemen? This opportunity will not be for everyone. It is only for the humble men who seek Christ, the curious men who wish to know Him personally, and the courageous men who are willing to open themselves to Him. To discover if 1-on-1 discipleship is right for you, first ask God. Then, call or email Eric Stockstill (850-694-2021 & eric@talcor.com), or me, Steve Gordon (850-524-5845 & me@stevegordon.io). We’ll have a “no commitment” exploratory conversation.

Seeing the Image of God in our Neighbor

Rev. Captain Herb Bailey | Canon for Missions and Evangelism

Immigrants. A word that conjures a mix of feelings from nostalgia, remembering our ancestors, to being wary of people who have different cultures than our own. We are at a potential tipping point in this country and how we respond will reflect our understanding of where Jesus stands on certain issues. The history of God’s people includes this warning from God, written into their law in Leviticus 19:34, "You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God."

It is difficult to get around the expectation from God’s people to those who are not like us, culturally. The beauty of the bearers of God’s image, imago Dei, weaves a tapestry that is multi-colored, multi-textured and divinely intertwined. We cannot escape, nor should we desire to, the directive to Love our Neighbor. When Jesus was pressed to explain who the neighbor was, our Lord recalls the now famous Good Samaritan. Those who should have, did not, but it was the stranger, the other, who extended grace and mercy.

When we look at the landscape of the opportunities available through the church to serve, I would encourage you to ask the Lord, “how can our family serve you, and by extension, serve our neighbor?” It is an amazing truth that when we raise up children in a certain way, they will continue into their own adult lives the path that we have laid for them. For you who are past the child-rearing age, the time that you have been granted is the Lord’s, how can you use the very breath that you been graced to proclaim His peace over those who need to know the love of the Father?

The first time I went to the border was 2018. I hung out with my friend Sami, and he introduced me to the people on the ground, making Jesus famous. I heard stories of hardship from those who were waiting to reconnect with family members. Saw how around the clock volunteers from churches all over El Paso came together to care for the least of these, making phone calls, preparing flight instructions, gathering necessities for their journey. That was 2018. Four years later, I went back and this time, I brought friends.

My wife, Angel and I, along with Archbishop Foley Beach and others went on the Border Encounter led by Sami DiPasquale. We had plenty of questions before we arrived, We got to hear from Border Agents, from those who serve migrants on the Mexico side of the border, and those who serve migrants on the USA side of the border. We saw them as humans, heard their stories, watched as young ladies who had not been able to graduate because of fleeing, learned and graduated from a training program. I welcome you attend the evening session at 6, in the parish hall for more information and dates for our opportunity to learn.

Abara: Belonging Beyond Boarders

Please plan to join us to learn more about Abara from Sami DiPasquale (our World Missions Sunday guest speaker) on Sunday February 23rd at 6:00 pm in the parish hall.  Sami will be speaking at all three services that Sunday as well. Sami is the Executive Director of Abara.  Sami’s vision for Abara grew out of 15 years of work at Ciudad Nueva Community Outreach. Sami is a global citizen with vast experience in refugee and immigrant communities. He spent the majority of his childhood and young adult years in the Middle East. He's lived in Jordan, Cyprus, Egypt and then India - before completing college in the United States.

Sami engages groups worldwide with profound insights on global migration, peace building, embodied faith, and narrative change. He explores the forces driving migration, the impact of living one's beliefs, and the power of storytelling to shift perceptions and foster social transformation. Abara is a ministry rooted on the U.S./Mexico border. As a peace-building center, Abara hosts educational border trips and offers holistic support alongside displaced communities, fostering connection and understanding in a polarized world.

Abara is linked with 32+ migrant shelters on both sides of the Rio Grande. They partner with local leaders to facilitate connections through hospitality, advocacy, and friendship. They collaborate with faith networks, NGOs, and residents who accompany asylum seekers. Team Abara is resourcing shelter leaders, welcoming new arrivals, and assisting migrant entrepreneurs daily. St. Peter’s is planning a future educational trip to Abara to learn more about life on the border from asylum seekers, border patrol agents, and several partnered organizations that provide support on both sides of the border as well as do some hands-on mission work while we are there.  Please come on Sunday night to learn more about this opportunity.

International Missions Core

By Patty Lang, International Missions Core Captain

During the month of February, we focus on our International Missions Core. We have relationships with several organizations and hope to add more groups in the future. We are currently actively working with The South Rwenzori Diocese in Uganda, Shade Ministries for Albinism in Tanzania, Abara Border Ministries, and Bishop Darrel Critch in Madagascar.

One of the strongest international programs we have is our Orphan and Vulnerable Children (OVC) sponsorship program in the South Rwenzori Diocese. St. Peter’s parishioners are currently sponsoring 117 students in Uganda. The $200/year sponsorship allows a student to attend a Christian school and provides that materials that they need to be successful. Three times a year Rev. Peter Kamalha (OVC administrator in Uganda) and other staff members meet with the students and their parents and guardians to see how the students are doing in school, provide spiritual teaching, and emphasize the importance of attending school to both the students and guardians. Since starting these regular meetings, the schools are reporting an increase in attendance by the sponsored students.

During our visit to Uganda in 2023 St. Peter’s and South Rwenzori jointly came up with a plan to improve the program with the goal that all sponsored students will be in one of the two schools on the Cathedral property in Kasese within five years. Previously the students were in 52 different schools across the diocese and it was very difficult to have regular contact with them. No children have been dropped from the program but as one graduates new students are added to the program at local schools. Several students have been transferred to the schools as well. To get all the remaining students into the local schools Bishop Nason began construction of two hostels that will each house 300 students on the cathedral grounds. This will provide a safe place to stay for the children who live far away or walk long distances to get to school. The cost is $200,000 to build the two dorms and to date St. Peters OVC sponsors and parishioners have donated $16,000 to help.

We have a few of our current sponsored students who need new sponsors and there is a need for more students to be sponsored. We are working hard to get letters back and forth to Uganda a couple of times a year, so sponsors can communicate with their student and learn a little more about them. If you are interested in sponsoring a student, donating towards the program or the hostel construction please let me know plang@stpetersfl.com.

St. Peter’s is sending a small team to Uganda in March and one of the objectives is learning more about our sponsored students and improving the program. The team will be participating in a conference with students as well as meeting with as many as we can. Be on the lookout for ways that you can help support the team with small gifts that we would like to give to all the students.

An Invitation to the Weak

By Michael Thompson, Partnered Evangelism Core Captain

Just over six months ago, I met with one of our Clergy for the Reconciliation of Penitents (BCP 2019 p225). I had been struggling with my brokenness and sin and felt weak and unworthy as a Christian man. I confessed the worst of all I've ever done and remember hearing the words, "Your sins are forgiven, brother. You are Reconciled."

I received penance, reestablishing right relationship with God, and from there was led into a program where I've been walking with the Lord and allowing Him to heal my childhood traumas and the wounds of my sin. You're probably asking what this has to do with Missions and Evangelism. The answer is weakness. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, the Lord says to Paul"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." I can testify that God is faithful to work mightily within us when we accept our weakness and surrender it to Him.

In Paul's second letter to the Corinthians and his letters to the Thessalonians, God's power bursts through as he embraces and accepts his weakness and suffering, entrusting his innermost being to the Lord. I believe this is, in part, a fundamental reason why and how Paul's Church planting, missions, and evangelism spread Christianity like wildfire throughout the world.

To know God, to know ourselves, and to know others, we must get outside ourselves. We do this by surrendering our right to live according to our self-will and accepting our weakness in light of God's grace, as Paul did, and finding a way to help others. We accept our weakness by asking Jesus Christ to bear our fears, temptations, and sin for us. When we do this, His power is made perfect in our weakness, and acts of love, encouragement, and service flow from within us. Paul did that and the Church was established; people received the Gospel, and so here we are today, praise God! What if you are tired and overwhelmed? Becoming a part of the Missions & Evangelism fellowship and service might be the answer.

I want to invite you to plug into our community, prayer, fellowship, and dynamic ministry opportunities. The Partnered Evangelism ministry opportunities below are God’s work. He is calling between 12-16 men and women to come and experience Him in a new and deeper way. Each of these ministries needs you to help proclaim Jesus to others and we do it in partnership with our ministry partners.

• Feed My Lambs | Food distribution ministry providing nutrition to at-risk children kindergarten through high school. Ministry partnership with Crossroads Charter Academy in Quincy, FL.

• Greater Love Church & St. Peter’s Food Distribution and Evangelism Ministry | One Saturday per month we will serve alongside the Greater Love congregation in South Tallahassee to provide food, prayer, and fellowship with the surrounding community as well as establish new friendships with parishioners at Greater Love Church.

• New Destiny Church in Quincy FL | Upcoming Ministry Opportunities:

  • Hallelujah Night (October 2022):  Games, food and fellowship with New Destiny congregation and their surrounding community. Bring your family!

  • Boxes of Love (November 2022): Work together with New Destiny congregation to provide Thanksgiving Dinner and food distribution.

  • Christmas on the Courts (December 2022): Family activities, food, games, and basketball fun with the New Destiny congregation and surrounding community.

For more information, please contact Michael Thompson or visit StPetersFL.com/partnered-evangelism for more details.

A Stephen Ministry Testimony

Submitted anonymously for the benefit and encouragement of those who might benefit from Stephen Ministry or those who may be called to become a Stephen Minister

There is a particular day in the last two years which I will not soon forget. On that day, I elected to resign from my job over some irreconcilable differences and consequently gave up a substantial salary. After a brief few hours of elation over my freedom to pursue other endeavors, I found myself sinking into despair as the uncertainty of future employment opportunities and the ability to provide for my family poured cold water over my confidence.

After a week of résumé revisions and feeling the tumult build in my soul, I was drawn to a recollection of the Stephen Ministry at St. Peter’s that I noted to my spouse when I read the bookmark stocked in the pew in front of us at a Sunday Service. It was at that moment that I felt God’s hand guiding me to seek help before things worsened in my own life and that of my family.

With all my pride in what I had done, now gone, I humbly called the church and shared that I needed someone to talk to about where I was and where I was going. Within a few hours, a member of the Stephen Ministry reached out to me, and we arranged to meet a few days later. The conversation at this meeting and the dozen or so that followed in subsequent time together were instrumental in helping me gain perspective on my situation, recognize the small role I played in controlling the course of my life, and realize how important it was for me to see that God was in charge. Not only did the trusted, confidential counsel of my Stephen Minister help me with my own personal and spiritual growth, but this person also helped me navigate some additional family challenges that developed over the ensuing weeks that were completely independent of the original purpose. I am certain that were it not for His guidance in connecting me with Stephen Ministries, I would have struggled to balance the stress of so many things being out of balance at the same time.

Thank you to the volunteers who help others through St. Peter’s and Stephen Ministries…this service saved me from tribulation and brought me to a stronger, more meaningful relationship with God. And a special thank you to my mentor and trusted listener…I am a better person for your counsel and wisdom. God Bless You!

Do you have a testimony to share of how God has used Stephen Ministry, LEM-Visitors, Parish Visitors, or other ministries to bless and encourage you? Tell us! You can share with someone from that ministry or send an email to info@StPetersFL.com

We'd love to hear more about what God is doing in and through the ministries and people of our cathedral!

Called By Community

By Joseph Reigle, MDiv Candidate ‘24 Duke Divinity School, Charles Simeon Institute Summer Fellow

I grew up in Binghamton, New York, which is a small city on the border of Pennsylvania. My family attended a Baptist church, and I was homeschooled from kindergarten through high school. My family, my education, and my faith were all deeply interwoven. I’m extremely thankful for the care my family took to instill their faith in me. But even from a young age it was difficult to disentangle what was my own faith from what was my family’s.

Do I have faith in God? Is my faith my own? Am I saved? These questions followed me from childhood through high school as I left for Cornell University to study city planning.

The first church I visited at Cornell was Bread of Life Anglican Church. Their service seemed strange to me, with repeated words and responses that I had yet to learn. But their reverence for the eucharist was profound. And I desired to be present for it. Slowly I learned the strange words and repeated refrains of the service. I discovered that going through the motions of faith, even when I harbored doubts, allowed me to imagine the world through the eyes of this community.

Through the Anglican church, I discovered that my life and my mind are not purely my own; I share them with the people and places that shape me. Knowledge is inherently communal; what we learn is contingent on our teachers, our access to resources, and the people with whom we live. My academic studies in city planning also prompted me to ponder questions of community and ministry. I learned that the city planner’s and the priest’s work overlap—they are both mediators between parties with divergent desires, advocates for the unheard, interpreters, and communicators.

A significant part of the Charles Simeon Fellowship is a priestly formation seminar led by Fr. Michael Petty. Together we’ve discussed and studied what it means to be servants of the church, and what it means to be a priest. One thing has become clear to me in this study: a priest is never called individually. Just as my faith is not an isolated individual event, my calling is not isolated. It is true that God calls each of his children by name, but he also calls us through the instrument of his church.

I can say with certainty that the Charles Simeon Institute has played an instrumental role in my calling to ministry. Through the opportunities to preach and teach I’ve been able to see the ways that God has prepared me for the practical work of the priesthood. Additionally, I’ve had the gift of lay mentors within St. Peters who have dedicated their time to observing and discerning my spiritual gifts and pointing them out in me. These aspects of the Charles Simeon Institute have affirmed my calling to ministry, and I believe that the investment CSI puts into developing church leaders is also an instrument that God has used to call me.

A Seminarian's Journey

By Ryan Cecil, MDiv Candidate ‘23 TSM, Charles Simeon Institute Summer Fellow

When someone is called into vocational ministry it can lead to a number of fulfilling careers that encompass serving the Lord in mighty ways. For me, after my undergraduate studies, I felt that God desired something quite different for my life than the career path I had chosen in the furniture industry. To be honest, at the time, I was a bit afraid of ministry and felt unworthy of such a call. There was a deep yearning inside of me to serve others and the Lord, but that didn’t fully manifest itself until 17 years later.

My personal calling into ministry began in 2019 after a wilderness experience in my life led me to fully surrender every facet of my life to the Lord. For eight long months, I fought surrendering to my Creator. Things crossed my mind like, where would I have to go? What would I have to do? I was comforted when God gave me complete peace in my surrender and allowed me to rest in him as I was able to fully participate in the leading of the Holy Spirit. Daily, I have learned to fully embrace the words of Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Indeed, as I have done just that, every path that God has laid before me has led to something far greater than I could have ever imagined.

Having always grown up around smaller parishes, coming to St. Peter’s to participate in a summer fellows program seemed daunting. My experience has been anything but that! Rather, it has been warm and welcoming, while the presence of the Lord has been constant. God is truly alive here!

The Charles Simeon Institute has allowed me to gain an in-depth experience of the parish life of a cathedral. The multi-faceted ministry experience has broadened my understanding of what is entailed in serving in a large parish with various ministries. I have greatly appreciated being able to participate in Family Bible School, leading the Daily Office, preaching, teaching, pastoral visits, and wonderful fellowship with you all. It is profoundly evident each and every day that the people of St. Peter’s fully exhibit the fruits of the Spirit,

As I enter my final year at Trinity School for Ministry, I am excited to see what the Lord continues to have in store for my journey into ministry. As we all seek to love and serve the Lord I am reminded of the vivid words of 1 Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

God bless you all!

A Summer Fellow's Reflection

By Dan Omar, MDiv ‘22 TSM, Charles Simeon Institute Summer Fellow

My turning point and a clear understanding of my calling into ministry was at the age of seventeen.  However, even though my calling was undoubtedly clear, I did not know what it exactly meant. I disqualified myself from ordained ministry and sought any other way of fulfilling my calling—a process that took a long time of prayer and discernment. I ultimately yielded to the Spirit’s guidance, assurance, and certainty to accept and seek ordained ministry.

I was already in my second year of seminary when I accepted to seek ordination, and I began to intentionally research into the process and its requirements.  I was overwhelmed by the mere thought of what it means to be ordained and to serve in a parish. I knew that it would only be possible with the help of the Holy Spirit that I would be able to make it in ministry. Thus, my earnest prayer was to find an opportunity to learn skills and knowledge in addition to spiritual growth in a parish setting. 

The Charles Simeon Institute has played a pivotal role in providing me with an opportunity to immerse myself in the life of the local church. I have experienced church leadership from the clergy’s point of view, as well as observing the active level of lay involvement in the ministry of the church. Sermon preparation, discipleship class teaching, and fellowship have provided us with wonderful opportunities to grow as the Body of Christ.

The wealth of experience I am gleaning from St. Peter's will certainly impact my future ministry. I recently accepted a two year curacy in Marion, Arkansas, at a small church planning to plant a church in Memphis, Tennessee. I am excited for this opportunity and ask for your prayers as we venture into the next step of our lives.

As I conclude, I am reminded of Apostle Paul’s resolve as he responds to the Ephesian church elders saying 

“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”

–Acts 20:24

Chorister Camp Is Back!

By Debbie Garven, Music Associate

Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!

-Psalm 47:6

Did you know that we have a Chorister Program at St. Peter’s? You may have seen some of our young choristers on Palm Sunday processing in their red robes and cottas. What do they do? They sing! The choristers’ primary purpose is to learn how to skillfully sing for God's glory, an opportunity that allows them to carry out God’s command to sing.  

We are called to sing, scripture supports this, but there are also many “fringe” benefits.

Singing helps us memorize scripture and the great truths of our faith. I admit that I still sing the “thirty days hath September” song when I try to remember the number of days in May! With St. Peter’s using music throughout the liturgy, I’m sure most of you could sing the Sanctus or Gloria with little assistance. 

So singing helps us memorize, but it also helps us emotionally engage with the words we recite. When we sing “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” during Lent, the words and music work together to share the sorrow and great joy of Christ's crucifixion. When we return to singing the “Gloria” after the long weeks of Lent, does it not fill you with great gladness?

Our chorister program is designed to teach the children to sing, (a command), but not only does it allow our children to memorize great truths and emotionally connect to them, but it also allows them an opportunity to serve the church body. One parent says: “Choristers is a way for my children to participate in the liturgy before they are old enough to acolyte. It gives them a chance to start serving at an early age, weaving them into the fabric of the Church.”

The choristers’ primary service is Evensong, with our youth choristers leading about once per month. This service takes place at 5:00 pm and is a sung service of Evening Prayer. It has been a tremendous opportunity for them to learn more music of the church as they help lead in worship.  

Our season has finished for the summer but will resume with our chorister camp the week of July 25th. This is considered our pre-season camp and is open to, and expected, of all who will be participating in the chorister program in the fall. This is a 4-hour camp that involves singing, games, and other creative outlets as we begin learning the music for the fall season and bonding together as a choir. At the conclusion of the camp, the choristers will lead a service of Evensong. In addition, our choristers age 2nd grade and up will be our choir for morning worship on Sunday, July 31st. It’s sure to be a treat and you don't want to miss it!

Rehearsals in the fall resume on Wednesday, Aug. 17th with PreK-5th meeting at 4pm and 6th grade and up meeting at 5pm.  If you are interested in our program, please contact me at DebGarven@gmail.com.  We’d love to include you in our chorister family!

Refugees Among Us

By Michelle Ubben

Like many, I watched news coverage of Afghans desperately trying to board planes to escape the Taliban, and Ukrainians driven from their homes by war and found myself increasingly moved to do something.

But beyond just writing a check to a relief organization, I felt the Holy Spirit calling me to relationship–to encounter the refugees in our midst.

That calling led my husband, Matt, and me to get involved with a small group of volunteers who were helping a local refugee resettlement agency meet families’ critical needs.

It led us to an extended stay hotel room, where we delivered a grocery order and toys to a Syrian couple with seven children, who were in Tallahassee temporarily until they could get transportation to a city where they had a support group of friends and family. The children’s faces lit up as they played with the baby dolls and stuffed animals and bubble wands. Speaking through a translation app on his phone, the dad told me his children had never seen common toys, since they grew up in a refugee camp in Jordan.

It led us to meet another large Syrian family and help them find the bikes they needed for transportation, desks for the children to work at, and a pantry shelf to hold their dry goods.

And it led us to meet an El Salvadoran family at a “pop up shop” staged to help local refugees find needed household items, when their precious little girl pointed to bread we were bagging up and asked if her family could have it. When we later learned that they were sitting on outdoor folding chairs in their living room, we brought them a couch and a recliner that a neighbor was giving away.

 Without a doubt, this has been the most rewarding volunteer work we’ve ever done, because it involves not just philanthropy but fellowship.

Deuteronomy 10:18 tells us to “defend the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and love the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing,” and Matthew 25 reminds us that when we care for the foreigners among us, we actually do it for Jesus Himself.

We have a tremendous opportunity to fulfill this scriptural directive by engaging with the more than 90 refugee families who live in our midst here in Tallahassee.

St. Peter’s is launching a new outreach ministry to come beside a local refugee family and help them experience the love of Christ through our fellowship and assistance. Our church will be making a financial contribution to help this family build stability as they move toward independence. And a group of cathedral volunteers with a heart for this ministry will form a personal relationship and help however we’re needed, which may include teaching English, locating needed household items, navigating bureaucratic processes and medical appointments, getting ready for the new school year, and more.

 If you feel you may be called to support this ministry, please join us for an informational meeting on June 28 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall and be in prayer for this effort.

Forming Tomorrow's Leaders

The Rev’d Canon Dr. Michael Petty, Canon for Adult Formation & Director of the Charles Simeon Institute

How should we go about forming future priests and deacons for ordained ministry? This is the “million-dollar question” being asked in the ACNA today and, as you might imagine, various answers are being offered. In thinking through a question like this, some historical perspective is not only helpful but also essential. In his insightful book Theologia: The Fragmentation and Unity of Theological Education, Edward Farley shows that the question of how best to form people for ordained ministry has been asked at least since the eighteenth century with no final answer yet appearing.

At the Charles Simeon Institute, we have offered our own answer to this question. We believe that people are best formed for ordained ministry through vocational clarity, emotional and spiritual maturity, and intellectual development. Both our Curacy Program and our Charles Simeon Fellows Program aim at accomplishing these goals.

This summer, our Charles Simeon Fellows (Ryan Cecil, Dan Omar, and Joseph Reigle), will participate in a Formation Seminar over the course of the ten weeks they are with us. This seminar is designed to promote the things I just mentioned. This summer, the Formation Seminar will focus on what I am calling 'Four Conversations.' Each conversation will be conducted with a significant theologian.

Our first conversation will be with the French Jesuit theologian Henri de Lubac. We will read de Lubac’s classic work The Church: Paradox and Mystery for the purpose of developing a deeper understanding of the Church as both a creation of God and a human, historical reality.

Our second conversation will be with the French Dominican theologian Jean-Pierre Torrell and his book A Priestly People: Baptismal Priesthood and Priestly Ministry. The Church possesses two priesthoods which both are rooted in the one Priesthood of Christ: the common priesthood which we all share through our baptism, and the ministerial priesthood received in the sacrament of Holy Orders. During the last thirty years, the tendency has been to emphasize one over the other with disastrous consequences. What does it mean to emphasize both for what they are?

Our third conversation will be with John Henry Newman, perhaps the most important Anglican theologian of the nineteenth century (before his conversion to Roman Catholicism). We will have a conversation on preaching by reading some of Newman’s Parochial and Plain Sermons (preached mostly at the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Oxford before his conversion). Newman’s sermons are an amazing combination of biblical interpretation, spiritual insight, and doctrinal exposition.

Our final conversation will be with the Anglican theologian Hans Boersma and his book Heavenly Participation: The Weaving of a Sacramental Tapestry.  We will talk with Boersma about both the meaning of the sacraments and what it means to think sacramentally.

This kind of undertaking is difficult and time-consuming but, I think, worth the investment of time and effort. As clergy and seminarians grow in vocational clarity, emotional and spiritual maturity, and intellectual development, they become better able to serve God’s people. Hopefully, some seeds will be planted this summer!

Please keep Ryan, Dan, and Joseph in your prayers over the course of the summer!

Family Style Ministry

Amy Stewart, Children’s Ministry Director

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear ‘family style?’ For me, it’s the kind of meal at a restaurant that still serves bowls of meat and potatoes to pass around until it’s too hard to walk to the car. However, in Children’s Ministry it’s the way we are approaching Bible School and Sunday School this summer. For our purposes, family style means that children and parents will participate in the child friendly music, games, crafts, Bible reading, Scripture memorization, and prayer… together! Parents get to walk with their children in many wonderful ways to be reminded of the person of Jesus. As families participate together, they are encouraged to take the skills we are teaching the children home to continue their growth into disciples of Christ. At the same time, parents are also getting the opportunity to connect with other families who are raising children in this secular society we live in. It’s so important to be reminded as parents that none of us are doing this alone and that we were commissioned by God to do this together.

I’ve been asked why we’re doing things this way instead of the drop-them-off vacation Bible School format. Research continues to show that despite being raised in ‘Christian homes’ and attending church services, many young people discontinue their church attendance once they leave the nest. Why do some stay in church and others tend to stray? In 2019, Lifeway Research identified the top 3 reasons why children growing up in church will stay. Young people who continued the basic practice of attending church services reported that while growing up they regularly read the Bible, spent time regularly in prayer, and regularly served in their church. Sounds a lot like the Parish Rule of Life, right?

If that’s the formula, what can we do to help them along the way? The key word in the research findings is ‘regularly.’ With their families, they regularly did the things necessary to keep and grow their faith. We know for certain ‘regularly’ can’t be accomplished in a weekly Sunday School class alone. It takes more than 30 minutes before or after church to learn the life skills needed to be rooted in faith. Parents must join their kids on this journey and practice the ‘regulars’ with them so that when the time comes to choose which path to take, the one that leads to the altar is the obvious choice.

I want my girls to grow up with good habits. Even though it’s a struggle to take the time to brush their teeth properly, the fruit of that labor will come because of the effort early on. Sometimes I wish I could hand them a toothbrush and toothpaste and drop them off at the door of the bathroom. It just doesn’t work that way. The same applies to their spiritual growth. They need me now so that when the time comes to independently read their bible, pray, serve, and make their own spiritual decisions, they’re ready.

My hope is that these words reach all the parents in our church. We crave your participation in this ministry. However, to those who aren’t parents of young children we still need your help now more than ever! Each person takes a vow during the baptismal liturgy to help those being baptized to grow in love as Christ loves them. In our context, that is most often referring to the young children we baptize! Consider taking some time to help in this family style effort so that parents can participate, without distraction, with their children during this critically important time in their lives. Parents need the support of others and children need to see Christianity modeled for them in other relationships beside their parents.  Please reach out to learn what opportunities are available to participate and to serve during Family Bible School next week, Sunday School this summer, and in Children’s and Family Ministry in the future!

Remaining Vigilant

The Safeguarding Committee of St. Peter’s Anglican Cathedral

Once a month, a team of parishioners meets to prayerfully discuss the safeguarding procedures of our parish. We seek to be guided by the words of 1 John 1:5–7, which say:

5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 

Each meeting we have is with you, the people of St. Peter's–from the youngest infants to the most senior among us–in mind. Did you know that 93% of sexual abuse perpetrators admit that they view the Church as an easy target? This singular statistic is deeply concerning. The Church should be a place where it is undeniably impossible for a perpetrator to act inappropriately because of our safeguarding measures and training. 

What would you do if you experienced or saw inappropriate behavior by clergy, a church employee or volunteer? Would you know how to report it or who to report it to? Would you even know if what you saw was sexual misconduct? Sexual Misconduct Awareness Training (SMAT) is required by the Gulf Atlantic Diocese (GAD) and St. Peter’s for all clergy, lay employees, and volunteers every two years. It goes without saying that we do all in our power to protect our children and youth, but we must also be aware of the abuse that can occur even among adults.

The SMAT Curriculum outlines what sexual misconduct is, how to avoid interaction that would appear to be questionable, who to report suspected abuse to, and how the diocese (GAD) is working to keep our parishes accountable and in compliance.

Our desire as a church family should be vigilance (being watchful) and diligence (being earnest) in our care and love for one another. This training prepares us for both. If you are a volunteer or seek to be one soon, you will be asked to join one of the training sessions in the next few months.

In light of all this, recall the following sentences prayed at the consecration of this building, that God would be with us in the fullness of his power through the joys and sorrows of life which we have had and will have in this place:

Holy Spirit, open our eyes, our ears, and our hearts, that we may grow closer to you through joy and through suffering. Be with us in the fullness of your power as new members are added to God’s household, as we grow in grace through the years, when we are joined in Holy Matrimony, when we turn to you in sickness or special need, and, at the last, when we are committed into the Father’s hands.

Consider also praying the following prayer of self-dedication from the Book of Common Prayer:

Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation

The Rev’d David Marten, Youth & Young Adult Minister

On confirmation Sunday, you may be wondering what the fuss is all about. While it may not seem like a big deal, this is an ancient and Biblical sacrament that welcomes adults of all ages into the church.1 This process is more than just taking some classes, passing an exam, and then receiving a certificate. Rather, it is the bishop praying for the confirmand to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit in order to serve Christ and His church.

In this sense, confirmation introduces a person as an ordained member of the church. A priest in the diocese recently commented that the prayer to receive the Holy Spirit is nearly identical for both a confirmand as well as the ordinations of a deacon, priest, and bishop. It strengthens the individual’s faith and introduces them to their new role as a member of the Church. Questions to ask when considering confirmation are:

1. Are you of mature age?

2. Do you have a knowledge of the Christian faith?

3. Are you willing to be tested by and held accountable to the church?

4. Are you prepared to promise to uphold the doctrines of the Church in word and deed?

5. Is your intention to lead a life of service to the church and the world?

Most of you are already familiar with confirmation, but do you know about reception and reaffirmation? Reception is for people who have already been confirmed in another apostolic tradition, like the Roman Catholic church, but would like to join the Anglican church. Here, the bishop prays for the strength, gifts, and guidance of the Holy Spirit, that they would be able to serve effectively alongside us in our mission.

Reaffirmation is for people who desire to publicly affirm their Christian faith but have already been confirmed in our Anglican tradition. This is particularly useful when entering a new stage in life or ministry and seeking gifts to match and align with those changes. Anyone who is already a confirmed member may request to reaffirm their vows at the next bishop’s visit.

Confirmation, reception, and reaffirmation all prepare people to participate more fully in the life of the Church. It is a rite of passage, during which candidates publicly reaffirm their baptismal vows and make vows to pursue Christ. It creates bonds with the Church and the opportunity to take part in the full life of the Church. People who have been confirmed are encouraged to participate in all aspects of parish life, from helping with worship, teaching Bible studies, serving in ministries within the parish, and leading in our common mission. Let us know if you are interested in confirmation, reaffirmation, or reception!

1 See II Timothy 1:6; Acts 8:14-16; & Acts 19:6

How Is Our Next Bishop Selected?

The Rev'd Canon Dr. Michael W. Petty, Chair of the Standing Committee, Member of Bishop Nominating Committee

On Saturday, May 14th the Gulf Atlantic Diocese of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) will elect a successor to our current bishop, the Right Reverend Neil Lebhar who will be retiring. How does our diocese elect a new bishop? The process for electing a bishop is set forth in the canon law of the diocese and involves the following steps:

1. When the diocesan bishop gives notice that he intends to retire, the diocese requests permission from the College of Bishops to begin an election process. Once this permission has been granted, the Standing Committee appoints a Bishop Nominating Committee. This committee may consist of 6-9 people, two of whom must be on the Standing Committee. In addition to these, two members must be active clergy and two members must be active laypeople. The current Bishop Nominating Committee consists of four clergy and four laypeople. (The Standing Committee consists of three clergy and three lay people each of whom is elected by the diocesan Synod.)

2. After appropriate interviews and screening (specified by ACNA canon law), the Bishop Nominating Committee must present the Electing Synod of the diocese with 2 to 5 candidates. The names of the candidates must be made public at least 60 days in advance of the election. At the end of a long process (with 19 nominees), the Bishop Nominating Committee presented a slate of two candidates: Fr. John Wallace (Apostles-by-the-Sea, Rosemary Beach) and Fr. Alex Farmer (Servants of Christ, Gainesville).

3. Once the slate of nominees has been finalized, the Bishop Nominating Committee must provide an opportunity for each of the candidates to visit each deanery in the diocese. Our diocese has four deaneries. Fr. John and Fr. Alex have met with clergy and lay delegates at Christchurch in Montgomery AL, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Grace Anglican Church in Fleming Island, and Christ Church in Vero Beach. The Q and A sessions from each of these four gatherings were recorded and posted on the Bishop Nominating Committee website (GADBishopSearch.org).

4. Bishop Neil’s successor will be chosen by the Electing Synod of the diocese. This body consists of clergy and lay delegates from each parish in the diocese. In order to be elected, a candidate must receive two-thirds of both the clergy and lay votes.

5. Once our next bishop has been elected, this election must receive the consent of the College of Bishops. Once this consent has been given, the new bishop may be consecrated. The consecration of our next bishop is scheduled for Saturday, August 27th here at St. Peter’s.

Bishops have holy and awesome responsibilities. To get a sense of these, consider meditating on The Form and Manner of Ordaining and Consecrating A Bishop, found in The Book of Common Prayer, 2019 beginning on page 497. Additionally, please pray for these two candidates, their wives and families, their current parishes, and for our diocese as we all discern the direction God is leading us in the coming days.

Healing Prayer Ministry at St. Peter's

The Rev’d Andy Miller

In an Anglican Compass article entitled, Why Should an Anglican Church Have a Healing Ministry, author Hannah King testifies that after suffering from chronic back pain for years, she was a regular recipient of prayer during Communion on Sunday mornings. She writes, “One Sunday morning I walked into church particularly discouraged, almost unable to find the words to even ask– again– for healing. But I got in line and tearfully repeated the refrain, ‘Please pray for my back.’ That day, I was healed. Inexplicably and unsensationally, God answered the prayers of these church volunteers and I was delivered from chronic pain. Eight years later, I give thanks to God for the church that walked with me and prayed for me and participated in my healing.”

A casual reading of the gospels makes it clear that much of Christ’s earthly ministry was devoted to healing—whether for physical, mental, or spiritual ailments. In fact, we are told in Matthew’s gospel that “Jesus went about curing every disease and every sickness (Matthew 4:23-24).” We as the church are charged with the command to continue the work that he began—to “do this” until Christ returns: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).” In the gospel of Mark, we are told that one of the signs that will accompany those who believe is “they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover (Mark 16:18).” I believe it is safe to say that making disciples and healing prayer were never meant to be mutually exclusive ministries.

King notes that “this ministry belongs to the whole church. Though some individuals may be uniquely gifted to pray for healing, the book of James instructs the elders of the church to anoint and pray for those who are sick: “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14). Whether James was referring to elders in a formalized sense of leadership or a more generalized sense of mature Christians within a congregation, just as Christ did in the previous passage, he is clearly referring to a plurality of ministers.”

She continues, “This is why Anglicans have a corporate liturgy for healing where after a time of teaching, confession, and communion, people are invited to come forward with prayer requests, as well as for laying on of hands and anointing with oil when deemed appropriate. There is a very close relationship between the eucharist and healing in the sacramental tradition. If Jesus makes himself present in the breaking of bread, then His healing power is uniquely released when we come to the Table." This is why many Anglican churches, [and why we here at St. Peter’s] have determined to offer healing prayer ministry during Communion on Sunday mornings: we receive Christ’s life and then we pray for its application in the myriad of ways we need it.”

What's Avodah With You?!

The Rev’d Canon Bill Krizner, Canon for Missions & Evangelism

He Has Risen Indeed! We shouted this joyous phrase from the top of our lungs at the Great Easter Vigil only a week ago but what does His glorious resurrection mean in your life this morning?  Paul writes the following introduction within his letter to the Romans: “Through him we received both the generous gift of his life and the urgent task of passing it on to others who receive it by entering into obedient trust in Jesus.” In other words, Easter means living His life–one full of freedom and grace–but also fulfilling the urgent task of sharing the Gospel with others so that they may know our same joy. 

It is Easter and it is the greatest of seasons to be part of the great work that Christ is doing through Missions & Evangelism at St. Peter’s. Each year, we invite the entirety of the Cathedral to take part together in a special event called Avodah Day. And, no, Avodah is not the funny punchline in the Hakuna Matata song from The Lion King! Avodah is an old Hebrew word that means to work, worship, and serve our God in every aspect of our lives. For us at St. Peter’s, Avodah Day is a truly wonderful time each year where we celebrate God’s goodness with our Tallahassee neighbors by sharing in fun, food, and fellowship. At last year’s event, we had more than 250 of our parishioners share Christ’s love at the Good Samaritan Network Village. This year, we will be joining our friends at Maryland Oaks, a supported neighborhood within the Good News Outreach ministry. 

Next weekend, on Saturday, April 30th, we will be serving food, providing a Backyard Bible Study for the children, planting flowers and bushes, doing basic repairs, and beginning new relationships with folks from the more than 100 homes within the neighborhood. The event begins at 11am and concludes at 2pm. It is a great day for children, teens, and adults all to come together to share in this work. We will be assigning teams of parishioners to work the varying stations and have a registration table outside by the coffee stand this morning but also welcome you to sign up electronically StPetersFL.com/Avodah. 

 Avodah Days are indeed only one-day events but have already proven to be incredible starting blocks for building much deeper and sustainable relationships with people that do not know Christ or who need the encouragement of God’s Church. Your participation this year is truly critical in helping St. Peter’s in reaching the City of Tallahassee for Christ. Please prayerfully consider giving of your time next Saturday morning to be part of God’s unveiling Kingdom. In Paul’s words, living a faithful life of Christ means to be brimming over with His generosity and love for the people. This year’s Avodah Day helps all of us live more fully into such a blessed call. Please join us!