God Loves A Cheerful Giver

by Mary Carolina Mica

Each Fall during Stewardship Season, the old Sunday School song “God Loves a Cheerful Giver” comes to mind. It is a playful song that I remember singing as a young child and perhaps you do too. Its catchy tune is so simple yet such a truthful reminder as we approach giving our pledge each year. The lyrics of the song are based on 2 Corinthians 9:7 which states,

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

The practice of tithing has been instilled in both my husband and me since we were young. We watched our parents tithe and teach us what it meant. Now that we are parents, we are starting to discuss with our children the meaning of giving cheerfully to our church. It is not for our joy, but for His Kingdom. Most importantly, we want our children to know that we give God back what is ultimately His and in doing so, we praise Him in this act of worship. One example is what we do with our children’s full piggy banks. Last year, when our son’s piggy bank was full, we told him he could empty it out and buy something on an upcoming trip, but first, he had to set aside a portion to give to the church and some to put in savings. Basic principles of stewardship applied even on his level, and it brought incredible joy to us to see our young son begin to understand these principles.

When David and I first got married, submitting our pledge to St. Peter’s was something we both felt very strongly about. We wanted to start our marriage and future family by giving to our church. While the amount has varied over the years, we have intentionally tried to increase it each year. Some years it has been a true leap of faith! But each year as we see the Lord’s generosity in our lives and in this Cathedral, we are overjoyed and encouraged to do more.

Our family is grateful for the ministries of St. Peter’s and shares in the desire to increase our missions and external spending. As Father Michael shared with us in his sermon at the beginning of our stewardship season, “Stewardship is the spiritual discipline which enables us to become generous and so reflect the generosity of God.”

As we all work to make stewardship a spiritual discipline in our lives, may you find joy in being a cheerful giver!

The Harvest is Plentiful

by The Rev'd Canon Bill Krizner, Canon for Missions & Evangelism

As many times as I have read Matthew 9, I am still left wondering “why?”

Why are the laborers so few? Knowing Christ’s compassion for the crowds, why has the Church so often failed to respond to this call by praying and acting? Why has the harvest grown so greatly in our very own city and the number of laborers decreased?

In short, self-absorption…we can become so preoccupied with our own interests, situation, and desires that we lose sight of our primary call as Christians – namely, loving God and then our neighbors with all our hearts, minds, and souls.

We find ourselves in a new season of ministry at St. Peter’s Cathedral. It is a time when the Holy Spirit is breaking hearts and opening eyes for those who have yet to call Jesus Christ both Lord and Savior. We have been working diligently to build a far greater capacity for ALL our parishioners to give of their time, talents, and treasures to work in many critical areas of ministry – upholding the sanctity of life, ending human-trafficking, international partnerships, school campus outreach, under-resourced outreach, and prison outreach. We have changed our approach from simply “doing good things” to expressly sharing the saving name of Jesus Christ as we go about Kingdom work. We are identifying and building up the laity and trusting them– trusting YOU to use your God-given talents to envision and lead this Gospel-centered work. In short, we are growing hungrier to be a Gospel proclaiming church that genuinely reflects the call of the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.

You see, a spirit of missions and evangelism is the very heart of Christianity, and it can only be effective as a result of each and every one of us partnering to help the advancement of the Gospel. Giving faithfully for such purposes is, quite simply stated, Biblical stewardship. As the “Pac Man” graph in this year’s stewardship booklet so vulnerably reveals, we have a long way to go in directing more of our resources to the advancement of the Gospel. However, we believe that, through both faithful prayer and faithful giving, St. Peter’s will continue becoming a church that is truly centered in the proclamation that Jesus Christ came to save all people from the bondage of sin, as it shares this Good News with the world outside the walls of the Cathedral.

The harvest is truly plentiful, friends…Won’t you join Christ, and St. Peter’s, in the fields?

Why One Family Tithes from North Carolina

By Sean Jecko

Have you ever felt like the Sunday morning drive to St. Peter’s is a bit overwhelming? I know my family and I often feel that way…but our drive is 635 miles one-way and takes nearly 10 hours to complete–assuming I-95 in South Carolina isn’t backed up…again!

Let me explain.

We are the Jecko family – Sean, Christine, Ann Elizabeth, and Jonathan. We live in Durham, North Carolina, and are regular attenders of St. Peter's (usually online, but we do visit-in-person throughout the year). But more than long-distance attendees, we are financial supporters of the cathedral – we give joyfully through a regular monthly tithe to St. Peter's.

You might be wondering what would make a family like ours “attend” and support a parish that is so far away…especially considering that we have at least four other Anglican churches within close proximity to our home.

Well, it’s complicated.

Part of it is that we’ve tried other local churches (Anglican and otherwise) and have found their worship to be lacking. They just don’t measure up to the worship at St. Peter’s.

Another part is that we have deep roots in the St. Peter’s family. I was on staff at St. John’s in the late ‘90s and I met and married my wife, Christine, in that historic church. More recently, though, both my father and father-in-law were buried in St. Peter's, and my mother-in-law, who was just elected to the vestry, is an active member of the church. These are all good things, but these reasons are tenuous at best.

When I asked my family why St. Peter’s feels like it is our home church, their answers were clear and consistent – there’s just something different about this church.

The leaders and the people of St. Peter’s are committed to scriptural authority. The leaders and people stand boldly and steadfastly in a cynical and changing world. The church is authentic and real when so much of our society is not. Even as the leadership has changed over the years, the church’s focus and commitment have not. St. Peter’s is a rock, and that’s precisely the kind of faith that my wife and I want modeled for us and for our children.

So, while we don’t get to participate in the daily life of the church as much as we’d like, we want to ensure the church has the financial means to continue its mission of serving and supporting the Tallahassee community and the world as Christ commanded. That is why we pledge our support and tithe to St. Peter's.

Sean, Christine, Ann Elizabeth, and Jonathan Jecko

Annual Stewardship Campaign Begins

by John Wood & Mac McNeill, Treasurer & Chair of Finance Committee

Today at St. Peter’s Cathedral, we begin our annual Stewardship Campaign. As Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee, we are writing on behalf of St. Peter’s requesting your pledge of support to our beloved Cathedral and its missions for the upcoming year.

For those new to St. Peter’s and the Anglican process of stewardship, we do not simply draw up a budget based on our financial requirements of salaries, mortgages, utilities, missions, spiritual priorities, etc., and then hope gifts will match our budget. We ask our members to prayerfully consider their financial investment and then we construct our annual budget from the total of the funds pledged.

God has certainly blessed our development and growth at St. Peter’s as we have been blessed financially with balanced budgets each year. We have suffered through great turmoil, and to borrow from a biblical parable, God has pruned our vines back a bit. Additionally, we have endured a worldwide pandemic, and yet, we have remained financially strong with good and prudent stewardship of our resources and finances.

St. Peter’s Cathedral has a bright and brilliant future! As a parish, we should all be excited about where we now are and where we are being led by our Dean and Rector, Fr. Marcus Kaiser. At the recent Annual Parish Meeting, Fr. Marcus shared his vision of St. Peter’s as a ‘Working Ranch Church’ –working to do God’s will in our church, our community, and wherever else God leads us!

Through your gifts, we sustain, grow, and pursue excellence in worship, missions, music, and Christian education, as well as maintain our beautiful Cathedral and property, which is a tremendous blessing to our congregation and community. More importantly, through your generosity people come to know the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ and follow him as disciples. We are called to give to the church with a cheerful heart because Christ has given so much. Please pray for God’s work within the St. Peter’s family and within your lives as you discern the role you will play in supporting our Stewardship Campaign.

Consider the words of St. Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians, and yes, to us at St. Peter's as well:

“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work." –2 Corinthians 9:6–8

Sincerely,

John & Mac

Stephen Ministers: The After People

By The Rev’d Dr. Jeff Trostle, Director of Pastoral Care

People often ask, “What exactly is a Stephen Minister?” One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the 'After People!'

Stephen Ministers are there:

• …after the phone call you hoped you’d never get.

• …after the funeral, when everyone has left and the emotions you’ve held at bay come crashing in on you.

• …after the relationship falls apart and the bottom falls out of your life.

• …after the doctor delivers news you hoped you’d never hear.

• …after retiring, when you realize the changes in your life are more than you expected.

• …after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away – and the house suddenly seems so empty.

• …after the baby arrives, demanding more of you than you ever dreamed possible.

• …after you find a pink slip with your final paycheck.

• …after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out.

Stephen Ministers are the 'After People.' They are ready to come alongside you – or someone you may know in our parish – and provide comfort, support, and a listening ear for as long after as needed.

Stephen Ministry is a confidential, one-on-one ministry to those suffering from life’s challenges. Please reach out if you need someone to trust, someone who will listen, someone who will care. Our Stephen Ministers are ready to help.

Contact Donna Trostle: StephenMinistry@StPetersFL.com

Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.
-Galatians 6:2

Cathedral Choristers

by Debbie Garven, Music Associate

The graded choral program at the Cathedral is what we call “Choristers”, but what even IS a chorister? 

Technically, a chorister is anyone who sings in a choir. Many Chorister programs in cathedrals around the world are made up of singers from the school on campus or in the nearby community. Most of the choristers at St. Peter's are parishioners of the Cathedral but some participate from other churches because of the unique training and opportunity it offers.

Our Chorister program is actually made up of children and youth from 5 years of age all the way through high school. The youngest choristers spend time rehearsing and learning about being part of a choir team and learning about music and worship. They sing several times throughout the year for Evensong.

The senior-most choristers sing about once a month at Choral Evensong on Sunday evenings. Singing in this program is an exceptional opportunity for musical growth in a healthy Christian environment as well as spiritual encouragement through leading worship. I do encourage you to attend the next Chorister lead Choral Evensong (you should attend Evensong regularly anyway as it is a wonderful and different service from the morning).

In fact, a small ensemble of our choristers will be leading this evening's Choral Evensong at 5:00pm.

As the writer of Hebrews wrote: "Let us not give up meeting together and encouraging one another," especially our younger brothers and sisters, in the corporate worship of our Lord Jesus Christ.

If you have an interest in your child or grandchild being a part of our Chorister Program, please contact Debbie Garven at Debbie@StPetersFL.com. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays at 4:00pm for grades K-4th and at 5:00pm for 5th-12th grades, beginning September 8.

Pathways to Discipleship

by The Rev'd Dr. Michael W. Petty, Canon for Adult Formation

St. Peter’s Adult Formation Committee has worked hard to create a schedule of classes for the fall.  You will find a full listing of this schedule in the Discipleship Opportunities Catalogue (available in print in the Narthex today and on the St. Peter’s website at StPetersFL.com/Register).  Before looking at the classes, however, I hope that you will look at the Pathways to Discipleship which precede the class descriptions.  All the classes offered by the Adult Formation Committee are designated as providing at least one pathway to discipleship.  The Four Pathways are:

Pathway 1: Discipleship sustained by an intentional life of prayer and worship
Pathway 2: Discipleship sustained by the study of Scripture and reflection upon Christian doctrine
Pathway 3: Discipleship sustained by the stewardship of spiritual gifts and financial resources
Pathway 4: Discipleship sustained by living out our baptism as servants and evangelists

As you look over the listing of classes, please pay careful attention to the Pathway associated with each class and then ask yourself, “At this moment in my life, which Pathway do I most need to walk?”

One of the things that most excites me about the fall is the strong schedule of classes that will be offered on Wednesday evenings from 6:15–7:30pm beginning September 15:

• The Claims of Christ led by Ben Munroe

• Bearing God’s Name: Who We Are as God’s People led by Fr. Michael Petty

• The Epic of Eden led by Dan Halladay

• Naomi and Ruth led by Brian Bailey

• Sacred Marriage led by Jeff and Donna Trostle

• Union With Christ led by Fred Thomson

• Spiritual Mothering led by Alice Sanderson

Parents will want to note that the Discipleship Opportunities Catalogue also contains a listing of classes for children and youth.  By looking at the catalogue, you will know what is being offered for every member of the family.  

Happy walking!

1 of 168

by Alice Sanderson, Family Ministries Program Coordinator

There are 168 hours in a week. Though some weeks it may feel like more!  Breaking this down, we spend 56 hours (about two and a half days) sleeping which leaves us with 112 hours (about four and a half days) for everything else. How do we best use the time we have been given? If only one or two of those hours are spent physically in the church, the rest of the time is going to be influenced by teachers, coaches, grandparents, parents, friends, and, of course, the culture.  

Amy Stewart and Ellen LaBarre are working to make every minute in Children’s Chapel and Sunday School count. David Marten and Tayla Calhoun are striving to make sure the time our youth are spending in Sunday School and Engage Groups are impacting their lives for Jesus. The rest of the week falls on us as parents, grandparents, godparents, and mentors to make sure everyone who crosses our path is being led to faith in Christ. Ultimately, a walk with Christ is what is most important when our time runs out so let’s make the work we do now lay a rock-solid foundation. 

In Deuteronomy 6:5-6, God makes it clear how He intends discipleship to work, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise." His command was for parents to disciple their children at home then and this command has not changed.  

However, some parents are unable to be the spiritual teachers of their children. We see examples in scripture where God used others to disciple and teach His truths. The Bible tells us that Esther was raised by her cousin, Mordecai, after the death of her parents (Esther 2:5-11). Timothy’s father was not a believer, but his mother and grandmother were, and they brought Timothy up in their faith. Later Paul took him under his wing and called him his “true child in the faith” and “beloved child” (1 Tim. 1:2; 2 Tim. 1:2). These are just a few examples of Christians called to “raise” others in the faith as spiritual daughters and sons. We are still called to do this today. 

As parents and spiritual parents to the precious young people in our care, we need to make our time count for Christ. How are we living out our Christian lives in front of those we are spiritually responsible for? Imagine the impact we could make if we commit to model a life of prayer and scripture reading at home and to raise each other up by actively taking part in the life of the church. I always tell parents that more is caught than taught and it is the same with those we are spiritually parenting as well. Our lives should reflect the life of Christ in our church, our workplace, our schools, and especially in our homes so that Jesus is caught from what we do and not just what we say. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP!  As our Children, Youth and Family Ministries begin the new school year, please consider assisting our leaders and teachers in Children’s Chapel, Sunday School, Engage Groups, and Wednesday Night Play & Pray. You can also get involved in the GRANDparents of St. Peter’s and Mom to Mom Ministries. Email Alice (Alice@StPetersFL.com), Amy (AmyS@StPetersFL.com) or David (David@StPetersFL.com) to see how you can be a part of these exciting ministries.

Spiritual Entrepreneurship: Laity Using Gifts From God To Further The Kingdom

by The Rev'd Bill Krizner, Canon for Missions & Evangelism, and Susan Newhouse Burton, founder of Tarmac Basketball

One of the cornerstones of the work being done within Missions & Evangelism at St. Peters is the continual use of God’s great gifts within our laity.  Chief amongst them is our parishioners’ creative approach to reaching the lost with the Gospel of Jesus Christ – something I commonly refer to as “spiritual entrepreneurship.”  We have already seen an incredible impact in new ideas set forth by our youth within the SALT grant program.  Kathy Gomer started the Wings For Change ministry and it is now distributing hundreds of feminine products, along with God’s Word, throughout Africa. Pam Valentine has recently brought together local ministries and non-profits to begin the new Christians Against Trafficking group that will host a Summit at St. Peter’s in October to address the horrors of human trafficking in our community.   These are just a few examples of the growing spiritual entrepreneurship that we see springing up in and through our laity at the Cathedral.  Another came about when God led our very own Susan Newhouse Burton to birth the Tarmac ministry to reach under-resourced young people through basketball.  I hope you find it as inspiring as I have.  —Father Bill

God led me to begin the Tarmac ministry after I endured varying hardships throughout my life.  Tarmac is defined as a set of crushed up rocks that are sealed together by tar and cement to create a solid foundation for others to use.  And it was in this image that I found God spurring me on to begin teaching and mentoring girls between the ages of 7 and 14 through a game that I have long loved – basketball.  We have been able to offer summer camps, weekend clinics, one-on-one training sessions throughout the year, and offer a special summer camp session without cost.  This year we had 22 girls attend and while basketball was front and center, I was also able to share the transforming power of God as we focused on the Ten Commandments and the importance of honoring our mothers and fathers.  We were able to present each of them with a brand-new Bible provided by St. Peter’s and will continue working to mentor them in and through Christ throughout the coming year.  I welcome any St. Peter’s parishioners that might be willing to help share God’s love with these special young people.    —Susan Newhouse Burton

Ecclesiastes 3 states: “To everything there is a season. A time for every activity under heaven.”  Court sponsorships and meal donations are also kindly appreciated.  

Please contact Partnered Evangelism Core Captain, Michael Thompson, at michaelthompson43@gmail.com or Discipled Evangelism Core Captain, Susan Newhouse Burton, directly at thetarmactlh@gmail.com or 850-251-3418 for more information.

What is a Priest?

by Collin Flake, 2021 Charles Simeon Institute Summer Fellow

When I arrived at Duke Divinity School, I had no intention of seeking ordination to the priesthood. I had dreams of becoming a lay missionary or working with a Christian non-profit in an under-resourced community. But about a year into my time at seminary someone asked me a pointed question: “Collin, do you really even know what a priest does?” When I thought about it, I had to admit that I did not. I had caught glimpses, of course, on Sunday mornings and at weddings and funerals. But I had little idea what the daily and weekly rhythms of parish ministry actually entailed. And I suspect this is true of many seminarians, even those who are confident they are called to full-time ministry in the parish. 

The Charles Simeon Institute is designed to address exactly this problem. Over the course of this summer, I learned what a priest does by entering into the life of St. Peter’s. I have learned about the teaching role of the priest through preaching and leading a Wednesday class. I have learned about the pastoral role of the priest through regular pastoral care calls and visits. I have learned about the administrative role of the priest by attending planning meetings and learning about managing a budget and building a staff. I have learned about the missional role of the priest by working with St. Peter’s mission partners and joining in Youth Mission Week. I have learned about the role of the priest in facilitating worship by leading morning prayer and participating in the Sunday liturgy. The list could go on.

But even more important than learning what a priest does, I have gained a deeper understanding of what a priest is. Fr. Michael has led some of the clergy in a weekly seminar this summer exploring exactly this question. In one of the books we read for that seminar, the author describes the priest as a sort of “walking sacrament.” I have seen the truth of this in a comical way during my lunch breaks. Several times I have caught people staring at me, and I have wondered if perhaps I was having a particularly bad hair day before remembering that I was wearing my clericals and collar. These symbols serve as a lightning rod for spiritual reflection. One worker at Moe’s even asked me conspiratorially over my burrito bowl: “So, do you like... do exorcisms and stuff?”

On a more serious note, I have seen the sacramental nature of the priesthood emerge in the regular rhythms of ministry to God’s people at all stages of life. There was one day this summer that I accompanied Fr. Wesley to visit a parishioner with Alzheimer’s. As we sat together, I felt the inadequacy of my own words. But as we read Psalm 139 together and prayed, I felt the power of God’s Word speaking beyond the edge of my own words. Just a few hours later, I was in a costume helping teach about baptism in Family Bible School. We invited the children to dip their fingers into the holy water in the baptismal font, and as they stared into the shimmering water, a sense of hushed wonder settled on the room. I have spent much of the past few years wrestling with the question of calling. And it strikes me that it is moments like these—simple moments transfigured by the mystery of God’s presence, moments which I can only describe as holy—out of which a calling emerges. I still do not know whether my calling will entail ordination to the priesthood. However, after this summer I understand more than ever what a worthy calling ordination is.

A Summer Fellow's Reflection

By Caleb Garven, Charles Simeon Institute Summer Fellow 2021

Caleb Garven was born in Tennessee, and was raised outside of Philadelphia. He spent his formative years in Tallahassee, from middle school through college. He studied psychology and philosophy at FSU and was an active member of the Marching Chiefs. He is currently studying for a Master of Divinity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He comes from a family of very talented musicians though he is pursuing pastoral ministry rather than music ministry. He is blessed to have a wonderful fiancée, Dallas, who supports all his endeavors. 

This has been a very busy summer for me. I have been crafting a curriculum for a Wednesday night class, writing sermons, assisting in and learning about pastoral care, and attending a lot of meetings. But this has probably been one of the most fruitful and rewarding summers I have had. I have been able to experience and learn all about the inner workings of an Anglican Cathedral and have been blessed to be working with and under so many amazing Godly people. To also be able to apply what I am learning in seminary is very rewarding. I have had the opportunity to be involved in just about everything this summer, from Youth Mission Week to Family Bible School, from serving in the liturgies to teaching and preaching.

It has truly been wonderful to be able to come back to my home church and be able to serve in a more in-depth capacity than I have before. It is very different being in a collar than being under the shadow of my dad. I am proud to call this my home parish and to have the ability to serve and learn here on my path to full-time vocational ministry. It is refreshing to be able to worship at my own church and with my family after being away at seminary.

I am glad that I was able to be a part of the Charles Simeon Institute this summer, and I do believe it has been very helpful in my discernment. I have grown in my understanding of my calling, and I have gained clarity on generally what it will entail, as much as one is able to, at least. I would recommend this wonderful program to any fellow Anglicans who are on the path to ministry. It is a robust and engaging program that asks a lot out of us but gives us so many things in return. The opportunity to learn under Fr. Michael Petty, to be mentored by Fr. Matt Wilkins, and to be guided by my lay mentoring team, is something for which I will be forever grateful. 

St. Peter’s GRANDparents Ministry

by Alice Sanderson, Family Ministries Program Coordinator

“Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children’s children...” –Deuteronomy 4:9 

Fr. Marcus and I discussed the importance of a ministry for grandparents at St. Peter’s when he first came here in November. His church in Sumter has had a thriving grandparents ministry called Grandparents at Prayer (GAP). Since he nor I have yet to have the privilege to be grandparents, we called in a professional, Cathy Jacobs. Cathy hails from South Carolina’s Low Country and has a passion for increasing the impact of a grandparent’s influence on their adult children and grandchildren's hearts. She has authored the book Pass the Legacy: Seven Keys for Grandparents Making a Difference, and is a charter member of and speaker for the Legacy Coalition, a national organization for Christian grandparenting. Cathy has joined us to give encouragement and ideas about being intentional in the relationships with our adult children and grandchildren. 

What is St. Peter’s GRANDparents Ministry? This ministry was created to equip and encourage grandparents to live into their calling and to make Jesus known to their children and grandchildren. Many St. Peter’s GRANDparents are already doing this “diligently”, but others find it a challenge to have a spiritual impact in their grandchildren’s lives. Either way, grandparents need tools, and the hope is that this ministry will equip them with the right ones. 

Who is invited to be a part of this ministry? All GRANDparents of St. Peter’s! If your adult children and grandchildren are seeking God or not, you are welcome and encouraged to come. You will learn how to pray for your grown children and your grandchildren, speak blessings over them and find ways to intentionally reach them and love them when there is a distance between you, either physically or spiritually. 

When does this group meet? Our next meeting is Thursday, August 19 at 6:00pm in the Parish Hall. Dinner will be served, and for those unable to attend in person, a Zoom option will be available. As this ministry grows, the group can decide what the best time to meet is, how often we meet, and how we want to use the time to encourage one another.  

As you think about whether you will participate in this ministry, I ask you to ponder the verse above from Deuteronomy and from Psalm 103:17, “But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children's children”.

Our Brothers & Sisters In Uganda Need Our Prayers

by The Rev'd Bill Krizner, Canon for Missions & Evangelism

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” – Romans 12:15

We at St. Peter’s have been so very blessed to be sojourners in God’s ministry with the wonderful people of the South Rwenzori Diocese for these many years.  The Diocese, which includes thirty eight parishes and more than 90 priests, is located in Southwest Uganda. In October 2005, our brothers and sisters welcomed us into the Church of Uganda as we separated from the Episcopal Church and provided solid orthodox leadership until we transferred to the Anglican Church in North America four years later.  Many of our parishioners have traveled to Uganda on mission to share in varying work with our friends there.  St. Peter’s Uganda Vulnerable Children Ministry has sponsored more than 200 children allowing each to receive invaluable education and support.  And, most recently, St. Peter’s has agreed to provide the financial support necessary for the purchase of the first motorcycle that will allow priests to bring the Gospel into some of the most rural communities in all of Uganda.  In sum, the Lord has drawn our people together for His mighty work and we rejoice in it.

While we in America now have unlimited access to COVID vaccinations and have witnessed the corresponding dramatic decline in resulting cases, our brothers and sisters in South Rwenzori are now being terrorized by the pandemic.  Bishop Nason and I correspond weekly.  During our conversations, he has repeatedly conveyed the harsh reality that they are now facing:  vaccines are unavailable, an insufficient amount of healthcare workers at clinics, no oxygen at the hospitals, and a growing number of people are becoming sick and dying.  As a result, the country of Uganda has implemented a 42-day lockdown that denies people the ability to gather for any purpose, including worship.

In response to the horrors of the pandemic, Bishop Nason called for a special prayer service that was held on July 4th.  He invited different clergy leaders within the diocese and throughout the world to lead different areas of focus throughout the time.  Hundreds of people were on the Zoom-based prayer meeting and the session was broadcast on the radio to encourage the faithful throughout the region.  It was my privilege to specifically lead the time of prayer focused upon the Bishop, his wife Jane, and their seven children.  Several members of his family have been infected by the terrible virus and have been slow to recover.  

...Keys Article Continued

Throughout the service, my eyes filled with tears as I scrolled through the hundreds of Zoom boxes to see so many mothers and fathers with their children in their laps faithfully singing “All To Jesus I Surrender” from their small open-air huts.  Each of them now live in complete isolation and face the very same fears and worries that challenged each of us in America a year ago.  My heart broke thinking of our current surplus of vaccines and the complete inability to share them with our brothers and sisters across the globe.  But then I remembered the second part of Romans 12:15 - being called to “weep with those that weep”… joining in deep and continued prayer, knowing that our God loves all of us deeply and, trusting that He alone can bring comfort and healing to His Church in Uganda.  

I committed each of us at St. Peter’s to specifically pray and therefore would ask that you post these names on your fridge, your mirror, or any other place that will remind you to bring your petitions to God daily.  Please pray for Bishop Nason, Jane, Baluku, Ireen, Bwambale, Masereka, Kule, Bira, and Thembo.

Stephen Ministers: A Heart for the Hurting

by Donna Trostle, Stephen Ministry Coordinator

All of us go through difficult and challenging seasons.  It can be extremely helpful to have someone come alongside us to give understanding and encouragement – to provide stability, hope, and Biblical principles to help us through the storm.

That is what a Stephen Minister is able to provide:  a listening ear, a supportive perspective, and God’s Word to help us through the challenges of life.  

Who are Stephen Ministers?

At St. Peter’s we have compassionate individuals who are trained to help us when we encounter loss, grief, relationship challenges, and a myriad of things that can throw our lives into a tailspin.  These Stephen Ministers are not counselors.  They are not “know-it-alls.”  They are not individuals who try to fix everyone’s troubles.  They simply provide love, care, and support when we need it most.

Perhaps you, a friend, or a family member would benefit from this kind of help and support.  If so, a Stephen Minister may be just what is needed.

Becoming a Stephen Minister.

For those who would like to come alongside and support others in a more intentional way, we provide training to become a Stephen Minister.  Through the training, you will receive practical, hands-on learning and resources to provide Christ-centered care and meet the emotional and spiritual needs of others.  Stephen Ministry promotes discipleship and deepens spiritual growth.

As a Stephen Minister you will also be supported in your ministry by our Stephen Leaders who will help you grow as you help others.  Being a Stephen Minister may be one of the most rewarding opportunities you will ever embrace.  Stephen Ministry makes ministry happen!

Find Out More.

To learn how a Stephen Minister can help you or someone you know – or how you can become a Stephen Minister – contact Donna Trostle at StephenMinistry@StPetersFL.com.  Training will begin in the fall of 2021.  Your request will be confidential.

2021 Annual Parish Meeting

by Budd Kneip, Senior Warden

This evening, Sunday, June 27, we will hold our Annual Parish Meeting at 6:30pm at the Cathedral.  The most significant issue will be the election of new Vestry members and Synod delegates for the first time since 2018.  The process will be different this meeting.  In the past, a predetermined slate of candidates was submitted to the congregation for acceptance or rejection as a unit.  This approach does not conform to common Anglican practices, and more importantly, it does not afford the members of the parish an opportunity to help identify candidates whose faith and talents they value and respect.  

This year, parishioners submitted a number of names to the Dean’s office, reflecting a broad representation of our membership.  Our bylaws set out certain requirements which each nominee must meet, including being a confirmed Anglican, active in parish life, and a giver of record.  Once the Dean verified the qualifications, each nominee was contacted to see if they were interested in serving in either capacity.  As always, God’s hand was in the process, and eight nominees emerged who were both qualified and interested. 

At the meeting, a ballot with these eight names will be provided to each member in good standing.  Attendees will be asked to vote for four names.  The four receiving the most votes will join the Vestry, and the other four will serve as St. Peter’s delegates to the Diocesan Synod.  

In the normal course of business, there will be a financial report from our Treasurer, a Senior Warden's report, and comments from the Dean.  At the conclusion of the meeting, the four new Vestry members and Synod delegates will be announced.

Following the glorious service of institution last Sunday, this Annual Meeting will further evidence the grace and mercy God has consistently shown St. Peter’s, as we report on financial and operating issues and welcome new Vestry members and Synod delegates.  Our current Vestry has served with faith and passion, in some cases for six years, and I have been honored to serve with them.  But I’m sure I speak for all of them when I say we are eager to introduce a new set of members, with fresh perspectives which will enhance our growth and development.  This is another exciting step in that direction.  Praise God!

Institution of a Rector & Dean

by The Very Rev'd Marcus Kaiser, Sr. 

This is an exciting day for me, but if I’m honest, it’s a little uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing I’d rather do than formally celebrate this Installation, but there’s two big reasons this is a little odd. First, it’s been 8 months! Normally these things happen after a few weeks, but… pandemic. So here we are, the better part of a year later, and we’re celebrating the new guy who isn’t so new. It’s been long enough that Kim, our boys, and I feel very much like this is our home and you are our people. We still get asked if we’re settling in, and as I’ve told many of you – at some point, one can no longer blame the chaos on settling. 

The other reason why it’s a little uncomfortable is because of how we style this celebration. We call it my institution (or installation, or induction, or… something… instaltution?). Here’s the thing, I really do think that’s right. In honesty, there’s nothing requiring us to do this. If it’s just about me, there’s certainly no reason to do a big celebration, much less fly in two archbishops and invite the entire diocese. The bishop could just send me a letter and saying, “tag, you’re it,” and Bob’s your uncle. 

No, this is really about you, the person reading this, the parishioner who has faithfully supported, served, and worshiped God in this place – whether you found us last week or have been attending St. Peter’s since her founding. This is a celebration of what you have accomplished, what you have endured, of your faithfulness. But, more importantly, it’s a celebration of what is to come. This is about our congregation, all of us together, as we lean into what God is making us, by way of what He has brought us through. The reason for all of the pomp and circumstance and for the big to-do is in some way because of what St. Peter’s has been and has endured. More importantly, it’s all about what St. Peter’s will mean – to us, yes, but just as much to the Tallahassee community and to the entire church.

So, thank you. Thank you for making this a special event, all of the dozens of folks who have put so much work in. Thank you for simply coming, if you are able, and thank you for offering a prayer if you aren’t. Most of all, thank you for sharing your life with my family and me and for sharing our excitement for what is to come. Today, you matter and we celebrate you. You matter to me, and you matter to the world, and most of all, you matter to Jesus. 

Prison Re-Entry

by The Rev'd Wesley Owens, Curate

As the Canon for Missions & Evangelism, I have been so greatly encouraged by the number of great leaders that the Lord has raised up for work beyond the walls of our Cathedral.  Deacon Wesley has shown both great passion and unwavering dedication to bring Christ to men and women that are re-entering society after incarceration.  After appointing him to lead a new partnership with Good News Outreach, I could not be more excited to offer the following update on God’s work through him and his team below. –Father Bill

It is far too common for us as typical American churchgoers to remain nearsighted in our understanding of God’s grace, and this is particularly apparent in our attitudes toward the incarcerated.  We settle for retribution when Christ calls us to be agents of his restoration.  Hebrews 13:3 instructs us to “remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them…”  This command is the application of a principle at the very heart of our Lord’s incarnation.  Jesus Christ did not keep the fallen world at arm’s length; he entered into the brokenness of humanity to redeem us.  He did not ignore the demands of God’s justice; indeed, he gave his life to fulfill it.  But, his primary mission was one of mercy, forgiveness, and healing.

Much can be said about the harsh realities of an American prison, but too often we overlook the trauma experienced by former inmates in the weeks, months, and years after prison.  The road to stability after prison is arduous and uncertain.   Former inmates must ‘swim upstream’ before they can find a foothold in a society that is reluctant to receive them.  They struggle to regain access to basic privileges that you and I take for granted: good employment, a driver’s license, safe housing, a reliable social network.  In the absence of support, it is no wonder that roughly one of every four inmates released from a Florida prison will return to prison within three years.  The desperation brought about by PTSD, lingering addiction, unstable surroundings, and a lack of secure relationships can make prospects appear hopeless.

Since November 2020, St. Peter’s has been actively exploring new opportunities to share the Gospel with former inmates and work to reduce recidivism in Tallahassee.  Our Re-entry Leadership Team, which includes Dave Mica, Frances Prevatt, and Jason White, has been engaging actively in relationship building and strategic planning with the goal of engaging in mission through Christian mentoring, tutoring, trauma and addiction recovery, and vocational help.  In partnership with Good News Outreach, we are coming alongside the ministry of Mercy House, a local transitional house for men, while assisting with the development of a parallel re-entry program for women.

Please pray for us and consider joining us in this important work.  I am grateful to the team of Godly lay leaders for their diverse contributions: Frances Prevatt, who is serving as our liaison for women’s re-entry; Scott Marshall, who has agreed to offer math tutoring to a resident of Mercy House; Sara Clausen, who has consulted with us about volunteer training standards in the department of corrections; and others who are prayerfully discerning the call to serve as after-prison mentors.  There are many ways to serve and be the hands and feet of Jesus in the lives of men and women who desperately need hope.

Body Ministry

By The Rev'd Dr. Jeff Trostle, Director of Pastoral Care

It is an oft overlooked truth that God has given each one of us a gift, maybe several, and he expects us to use those gifts to encourage others.

The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church in Corinth because they were misusing the gifts of God, “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware.”  They were using the gifts God had given them to impress others, certainly not out of love.  The idea behind this is that God gives gifts to all of us not for our own use but for the common good of the church, the body of Christ.

He went on to explain to them that the church is like the human body.  Just as our human bodies are made up of many individual parts, each part playing a role in the proper functioning of the body, so the church, Christ’s body on earth, is also made up of many individual parts, each part playing a role in the proper functioning of the church.  When one part is damaged or broken neither the human body nor the body of Christ can function properly.

Paul calls these gifts “the manifestation of the Spirit,” and tells us that God gives every one of us a gift.  “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”  God has given each one of us a role to play in the church based upon the spiritual gift(s) he has given us.  This is a very real and practical work of the Holy Spirit in each of our lives, a practical way we can experience the Holy Spirit working through us for the sake of others and for God’s glory!  In 1 Corinthians 12-14 he discusses many of the gifts which I encourage you to read. 

The body of Christ needs everyone of us to be involved using our gifts in building up one another, bearing one another’s daily burdens, consoling, comforting, admonishing, teaching one another that we are to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and to love one another.  In this way the world will know that we are Christ’s disciples.  If we think these things should be left for clergy, then we will have a church that does not function as God intended.

This is body ministry:  Every member doing their part in using their gifts to God’s glory and the benefit of others.  If you don’t yet know what your spiritual gifts are, we can help you discover them and show you how you can utilize what God has given you.

In the coming weeks I will have more to say about the Ministries of Pastoral Care, and opportunities for you to make a difference in the lives of others.  

The Acolyte Program

By Dr. Cal Melton, Acolyte Master

Dear St. Peter’s,

To my church: My family is still celebrating the blessing of having my dad confirmed here at St. Peter’s last weekend. The Holy Spirit working in our Church brought my family here. You probably cannot even imagine how He is working in you to influence your parents and your children!

To my acolytes: It is truly an honor to serve you as head of the acolyte program here at St. Peter's. I enjoy every one of you, and I want to take this opportunity to share some direction within our acolyte program. I am excited to let everyone know that the staff, clergy, and I are on the same page about our program and youth as a whole.  We all believe the more you play a part in the service the better. We will be looking for new ways for you to serve as well as re-instituting some of our previous traditions. We will be building an acolyte page within the website construct and launching an acolyte channel for training and recruitment.  Most importantly, I would like to recognize your achievements not only in the acolyte program, but also in your life outside the program. Not because you need recognition but because it is important for your church family to know what is going on in all aspects of your growth.

To the acolyte parents: We know the acolyte program can attract new members to the church. This program can and will influence the growth of acolyte programs in our diocese and the entire ACNA. We are always looking to welcome new youth into the program. Parents, please share the message with your peers and have your children share their experience as well. There are many ways to support our program and our acolytes. 

To find out more, please contact me at (850) 570-0208 or drcalmelton@gmail.com.

In Christ,

Cal Melton 

TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS: YOUTH MISSIONS WEEK 2021 IS HERE!

By The Rev'd William Krizner, Canon for Missions & Evangelism

As a contagious spirit of missions and evangelism continues to sweep through our Cathedral, many of our middle school and high school youth have been deeply energized to go and share the Gospel with the world outside the walls of our building.  In fact, a group of more than twenty St. Peter’s middle and high school kids took part in praying and sharing invitations for Avodah Day with friends throughout the neighborhood near Riley Elementary School last weekend.  Many of the youth then shared in the work at Good Samaritan Outreach the next day – gardening, operating a yard sale, and sharing in laughter and encouragement with those in the community.

And all of this excitement has led us to offer the first ever St. Peter’s Youth Missions Week that will be held June 14—18. It will be a week full of fun, fellowship, and evangelism-centered work.  Each of the first four days will begin at noon with a lunch that is being prepared by women from the Daughters of the Holy Cross and the Mary & Martha Guild.  We will then travel out to work at ministry partners such as Good Samaritan Chapel, A Women’s Pregnancy Center, and Chelsea House.  At each, our young men and women will engage in people-centered outreach including offering a Vacation Bible School, building chicken coops and flower planter boxes with community members, and sharing in prayer and fellowship with those in physical and spiritual need.  The team will then travel back to St. Peter’s each afternoon for special catered dinners and dynamic presentations from ministry leaders on topics such as human trafficking, life, and evangelism before departing at 6:30 each night.  The week will then end with a fun-filled pool party at the Cooksey’s home on Friday to celebrate God’s great work that will be done throughout the week.  

As the Canon for Missions & Evangelism, there are few things that encourage my soul more than seeing our young people out on an adventure with God.  Over the years, I have watched so many youth come alive in Christ during trips, camps, and other mission-centered outings to Nicaragua, Belize, Gretna, and throughout our own community.  I am now so very excited to see what the Lord will do during this Youth Missions Week with our young people at St. Peter's.  These times together in mission are truly transformative and we believe this special time will be a catalyst for even more work together in the months and years to come.

Please register your 6th to 12th grade son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter, or any other youth in your life today by stopping by the table outside this morning or email Fr. Bill at BKrizner@StPetersFL.com.  You do not want them to miss out on this special time of youth ministry together!