Volume 113, No.

8 Houston, Texas October 2010

Legacy Stewardship is
Model for Tellelpsen Family

Roots to Wings and Back Again

Tom Tellepsen married his childhood sweetheart, Ingeborg, in Norway in 1912, and brought her to their new home in Houston.
By Carol E. Barnwell the early 1900s. When he immigrated

T
to Houston in 1909, the city had
add Tellepsen opened the dedication of Houston’s new Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA with prayer. 65,000 residents. Tellepsen, who had a
In it he asked for God’s guidance to do “what is best for our fellow man at whatever cost … that we seventh grade education, signed up for
may be led by integrity and character.” Those fitting words informed the life of his great-grandfather, an architectural drafting class at the
Tom Tellepsen, and each succeeding generation, to the benefit of their community and their church for the last Downtown YMCA Night School to
century. improve his skills, which began a 100-
Four generations of Tellepsens have served on YMCA boards, and at the same time they literally helped define year relationship between the Tellepsen
Houston’s landscape in the arts, faith and health, building many Houston landmarks (see sidebar). Tellepsens family, Houston and the YMCA. The
have been active members of Church of the Redeemer, St. James’ and St. Martin’s during the same period. new Downtown YMCA, named for the
Tom Tellepsen left Norway at age 14 as a deck boy and worked as a carpenter on the Panama Canal in Tellepsen family, will open on October
See Roots, page 10

INSIDE
Bishops’ Calendars......................... 24 Diocesan News...........8-12, 14-17 Sam Todd’s Column..................23
Bishop’s Column.............................. 2 National & International..... 18-22
Calendar of Events......................... 13 Parish News............................ 4-7

1 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010

 Meeting Clive and the Archbishop of Canterbury
J
oAnne and I found
ourselves sitting outside
at a café near the corner
of Westbourne Grove and
Portobello Road, in London
several weeks ago. We were
deep in conversation with
a new friend discussing art, the
Portobello market, the neighborhood,
Jimmy Hendrix and Eric Clapton. Clive
had pulled us in off the street, told us
what to order and proceeded to engage
us in lively conversation, which drifted to
religion and more spiritual things. When
Clive found out that I was a bishop and had
recently met with the Archbishop, he immediately
wanted to know: “What do you think of the
Archbishop? What’s he like?”
I had met Archbishop Rowan Williams
once before, but my mind went to our meeting at
Lambeth Palace the day before. The Archbishop
put me at ease, inviting me to sit with him in his
private study and was very patient as my wondering
eyes took in the surroundings. In our conversation,
we had wasted no time diving into mission, leadership
and evangelism. It’s a funny thing to take all of
this in, along with so many more bits and pieces
of information, and then try to explain what the
Archbishop is really “like.”
In that moment I was an evangelist. It was a
Pauline moment. Here before me was a citizen, a
believer, an artisan, a rug dealer. I had been asked
to describe to a British citizen what one of the three
most public figures in his world is like, a man, an
emblem of empire, but most of all, a symbol of
Christ and Christ’s Church.
The Texas Episcopalian (since 1897) is an official
publication of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.
Mission: In the name of Jesus Christ, the Texas Episcopalian
seeks to inform the people in the diocese of events and
philosophies which affect the mission and life of the Church.
Publisher: The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle
Editor: Carol E. Barnwell, cbarnwell@epicenter.org
Layout: LaShane K. Eaglin, leaglin@epicenter.org
The Texas Episcopalian (ISSN# 1074-441X) is
published monthly except July and August for $15 a year
by the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, 1225 Texas Ave.,
Houston, TX 77002-3504. Periodical postage paid at
Houston, Texas. Deadline is the 10th of the month
preceding publication. Articles, editorials and photos
should be submitted to the editor at the above e-mail
address. Photos will not be returned. Address changes
can be made at www.epicenter.org/infochange.
Postmaster: Address changes: THE TEXAS EPISCOPALIAN,
1225 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002-3504
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
I said to Clive, “There are many things I can say, but the most Hogan, a member of St. Martin’s, Houston, is helping to develop.
important thing is that he is a faithful man and he loves and cares And he talked about a Global Relief Alliance aimed at connecting
for people. It is not every person you meet who truly and humbly Anglican relief efforts across the world. Only briefly did he talk
cares for those around him. The Archbishop cares.” Clive seemed about the issues of sexuality.
happy to have this first person description. The Archbishop reminded us that God does not say to his
I have come to know the Archbishop as a brilliant man. He is church, “When you figure out your problems then serve me.” He
wise. He is spiritually grounded and centered. He loves Jesus Christ. said that God calls us into mission now. God calls us to preach the
And from that love of Christ flows a profound pastoral love for all Gospel now. “Church is what happens when God and people come
people, especially those in his care and the poor of this world. into contact with one another … One of the key pieces of Christian
JoAnne and I were in London with the Compass Rose Society. life is to befriend one another regardless of the issues that divide us.”
We went to see how monies from the Episcopal Foundation of We are created to befriend God and one another, he reminded us.
Texas were being spent on global mission and evangelism through At the end of our time together, he was asked some very
the Archbishop’s office and the office of the Anglican Communion. pastoral questions and it was here that he really showed his love and
With other members of the Compass Rose we spent two care for Christ’s people. It was a powerful and pastoral moment.
days at the Anglican Communion Office (ACO) and heard reports He spoke eloquently about life after death and how we are never
about ecumenical dialogues. (I am looking forward to reading separated from those we love as we are connected ultimately
about the new Orthodox work taking shape around the themes of through God to all the saints who have gone before us. His closing
anthropology and the stewardship of creation.) We learned about meditations were profound for all seasons of life and even for our
mission work in Southern Malawi and I was proud of our diocese’s daily living. He said, “God does not let go of us.”
partnership with Bishop James Tenga Tenga, Bishop of Southern I was constantly aware, in my time with bishops and clergy
Malawi and President of the Anglican Consultative Council. It oversees, of how wonderfully proud I am of our mission and
was good to see how others were joining him in working with the ministry in the Diocese of Texas. I shared the very best of our
poorest of the poor of Malawi’s population. work with others who are engaged in global mission and we each
We received a report on the communication efforts of the were energized for the journey of mission. I am grateful for the
ACO. The Diocese of Texas is helping to support one project partnership of your diocesan staff and our common mission work.
aimed at increasing discussion on scripture and learning how we We are blessed in our efforts in Texas to reach out and serve
teach and use Scripture throughout the Anglican Communion in all ages and all ethnicities. We are blessed in our understanding that
varied missionary contexts. My friend, Bishop Jean Zaché Duracin we are united in the bonds of affection rooted in Jesus Christ. We
of Haiti, joined us and shared stories of the rebuilding work that are blessed with our diversity in thought and livelihood. We are
has followed the devastating earthquake. He witnessed to Christ’s blessed with our efforts in the mission field and our efforts to grow
hand at work in Haiti and invited us to join in the rebuilding the reign of God in Texas. We are blessed that even in our divisions
efforts. We are in contact with those involved in the rebuilding and at home we are united in mission. I am humbled that you and God
will share that information as we learn how exactly we can help. have invited me for a short while to be the Bishop of the Diocese of
I have sent more money to Haiti as they continue to meet the Texas. God has got hold of us; and God does not let go.
needs of tens of thousands of Haitians who are being supported
by the Episcopal Church
there. Please continue to
keep Bishop Duracin, the The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle
Episcopal Church in Haiti IX Bishop of Texas
and the people of Haiti in
your daily prayers.
On Wednesday
evening we joined a small
group in the crypt of the
Lambeth Palace where the
Archbishop begins each day
at prayer. It was there that
we learned more about our
common mission in Japan,
Egypt, Burundi, Jerusalem
and throughout Latin America. They are, as the
Archbishop described them in a quintessential
British phrase, “punching above their weight.”
The Archbishop spoke about stewardship
and the challenge of being responsible with the
wealth that is given to us. He told us of the strong
Christian witness in the Holy Land in churches
and in hospital ministries, even though, at the
same time, the Christian community is being
pushed out of the Holy Land. He spoke of
his recent visit to Africa, of the frontline issues
around emerging leadership, mission, ministry
and persecution; the crisis in Sudan and his work
to deal with the moral and spiritual challenges
there.
The Archbishop talked about the new
Anglican Healthcare Network that our own Lee
2
 COUNCIL INFORMATION

162nd Diocesan
Nominations Form
162nd Diocesan Council, The Woodlands Texas, February 11-12, 2011
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas
(Please print or type)

Council
Full Name:_____________________________________________________________

Position Sought:_________________________________________________________

Address (city and zip):_____________________________________________________

Nominations

162
Please download (from www.epicenter.org) and complete the Phone (home):_________________________(work):_____________________________
nomination form at right and mail to the following address by
November 6, 2010: The Rev. Janice Jones, Grace Episcopal Church,
1314 E. University Ave., Georgetown, TX 78626. All nominations Fax:___________________________E-mail:__________________________________
must be received by mail as they require original signatures.
Additionally, please e-mail a recent photograph and a 50- Congregation:__________________________________________________________
75 word biographical sketch for publication online, highlighting
why you would like the position and believe you are qualified to:
nominations@epicenter.org. Education and Employment:_________________________________________________
Treasurer of the Diocese
Secretary of the Diocese _____________________________________________________________________

nd
Standing Committee (1 lay, 1 clergy)
Executive Board (3 lay, 2 clergy) _____________________________________________________________________
Trustee of the Church Corporation (1 lay or clergy)
Trustee of the University of the South (1 clergy) Church (local and diocesan) and Community Service:_______________________________
The year before each National Convention the following
are elected (Convention occurs every three years. The next
Convention will be held in 2012.) _____________________________________________________________________

Diocesan
Provisional Synod Delegates - clergy (4 delegates, 4 alternates)

Council
Provisional Synod Delegates - lay (4 delegates, 4 alternates) _____________________________________________________________________
National Convention Deputies - clergy (4 delegates, 4 alternates)
National Convention Deputies - lay (4 delegates, 4 alternates) _____________________________________________________________________

Constitution & Canons

Any delegate to the 2011 Diocesan Council wishing to propose Other (anything you would like to add):_________________________________________
an amendment to the Constitution or Canons of the Diocese of
Texas should submit a written copy of the proposed amendment
by e-mail or facsimile, on or before November 15, 2010, to Maria _____________________________________________________________________
Wyckoff Boyce, chair of Constitution and Canons Committee.
E-mail address is maria.boyce@bakerbotts.com; fax number is _____________________________________________________________________
713.229.2722.

Resolutions Signature of Nominee:_____________________________________________________

Resolutions for the 162nd Council of the Diocese of Texas
must be received in the mail by the Rev. Bert Baetz no later than Nominated by:__________________________________________________________
November 15, 2010. Please mail all resolutions to: The Rev. Bert
Baetz, 2128 Barton Hills Drive, Austin, Texas 78704.
The original resolution must be signed by an official delegate
or alternate to either the 161st or 162nd Councils of the Diocese of IMPORTANT: Please complete this form and mail to the following address by November 6, 2010:
Texas. Please include three copies of the resolution with the original. The Rev. Janice Jones, Grace Episcopal Church, 1314 E. University Ave., Georgetown, TX 78626. 
Note that the committee for Resolutions can make changes to the
form (not content) of a resolution received so that all resolutions All nominations must be received by mail as they require original signatures.
meet the standard form. The mover of the resolution will be notified
if changes are made. For more information about the committee
for Resolutions or the resolution process, please refer to Canon 2,
Additionally, e-mail a recent photograph and a 50-75 word biographical sketch, written in the
Section 1 of the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese of Texas first person, highlighting why you would like the position and believe you are qualified to fill it.
or contact Baetz at 512.444.1449. E-mail to: nominations@epicenter.org. These will be used online and at pre-council meetings.

3 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010


“Father Amy” Concludes 14-year
Medical Chaplaincy in Round Rock
“
Father Amy” concludes 14-year medical chaplaincy
in Round Rock Simply put, the Rev. Amy Donohue-
Adams cares a lot about people.
Donohue-Adams comforted countless patients and
their families with great dedication and care while enhancing
the soul of the healthcare system at St. David’s Round Rock
Medical Center for the past 14 years. She retired as Chaplain
and Manager of the Spiritual Care department this summer.
A proactive advocate for patients as well as hospital
employees, she championed the process of Advance Care
Planning. She encouraged patients and families to engage
in early decision-making and loving conversations, and to
fill out Advance Directives, so persons nearing death would
continue to be in authority, having earlier made known their
final wishes to family members.
Through her initiative, the Medical Center changed the
rather negative designation – Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)
to one of more positive language – Allow Natural Death
(AND).
Donohue-Adams also worked with Ingrid Rodriguez,
R.N., for the past ten years in helping to ease the parental
pain of pregnancy loss.
“Amy cared for the parents’ loss and ensured that the
dead baby was treated with respect because everyone is
owed respect,” said Rodriguez, manager of Labor, Delivery
and Post Partum. Parents are offered choices ranging from
cremation and interment in the Medical Center’s memorial
garden, burial in one of two cemeteries with a specially-
designed liturgy for infants, and discounts at funeral homes.
“I have never experienced this range of choices in any other
hospital where I have worked,” Rodriguez said.
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
PARISH NEWS
was ordained a priest the following year
and served at St. Francis’, Houston,
and St. Peter’s, Lago Vista. After almost
two years at St. Peter’s, she accepted
the chaplain’s position at Round Rock
Medical Center and in her tenure there
developed the Spiritual Care Department.
Donohue-Adams completed 11
units of Clinical Pastoral training before
seminary. Once in seminary she was
further mentored by the late Revs. Chuck
Meyer and Will Spong, who both taught
pastoral ministry at the seminary.
That circle was completed when the
Texas Partnership for End-of-Life Care
group awarded her its Chuck Meyer
Award of Excellence in 2004. She received
the Hal Brook Perry Distinguished
Alumni Award from the Seminary of the
Southwest in 2007.
Donohue-Adams and her spouse,
the Rev. William Seth Adams, have
twice been priests-in-charge at St. James’,
Austin. Donohue-Adams has been
associate chaplain at St. James’ since 1996
“Amy has been a big help to the nursing staff here. She
and parishioners understand her hospital chaplaincy as part
pointed the way and walked with us in a very soothing way.
of their outreach to the community.
Each year she held a blessing of the hands service for our
Former colleague Janene Jeffrey, R.N., noted Donohue-
nurses,” she said.
Adams epitomizes “Manos de Amore,” “the Hands of Love
“Our hospital was Amy’s parish,” said Vicki Cain who
extended to those who work at and are treated by the Medical
was her administrative assistant for 11 years. “Amy delighted
Center when the trials of death reach their greatest tempo.”
in doing things for patients and her co-workers. I never felt I
worked for her but rather with her,” Cain said.
A major in the Army Reserves, Cain was sent to
Afghanistan for a tour of duty a few years ago. “I was
very appreciative of Amy’s support back then,” she said.
Donohue-Adams put a cross in the hospital’s chapel
with names of Cain and other staffers serving in the
military, hung a “We Support Our Military” banner at
work and posted monthly email updates from Cain for
all to see.
Affectionately known as “Father Amy” at the
hospital, Donohue-Adams always encouraged her co-
workers to support others. She created a Christmas tree
with a list of staffer’s children and what they would like
for Christmas. Last year’s list totaled 115 children and
each received an average of four gifts. Father Amy also
set up a food bank and donation site for Coats for Kids
every fall.
Witnessing the ministry of Roman Catholic sisters
in a Chicago hospital influenced Donohue-Adams to
enter the Sisters of Providence about 30 years ago. She
left her order in 1979, joined the Episcopal Church and
entered the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest in
Austin in 1990.
After graduating from the seminary in 1993, she
The Rev. Amy Donohue-Adams
4
 PARISH NEWS

Martin Neary to Conduct

51st Choral Festival
N
oted British organist, conductor and composer appointment as Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order
Martin Neary will conduct this year’s Diocesan by the Queen, in recognition of his services for choosing
(Adult) Choral Festival, scheduled for Sunday and directing the music at the funeral of Princess Diana. 
October 17, 2010 at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston.  He is Director of the Millennium Consort Singers and will

F
The festival service, “Ascribe Unto the Lord: A Concert of conduct their performance in Los Angeles’ Disney Hall in
olks at Trinity, The Woodlands, wanted to make sure
Music and Readings” will celebrate the 200th anniversary of November.  The festival will also be the American premiere
that summer vacation did not mean taking a vacation
the birth of Samuel Sebastian Wesley, Neary’s most illustrious of Neary’s composition, “Joy and Woe.”
from church or remembering our faith community as
predecessor at Winchester Cathedral.  For those choir members who wish to participate,
parishioners traveled. So they took a chapter from author
Neary was Organist and Master of the Choristers at this year’s anthems are available as free downloads and
Jeff Brown’s book Flat Stanley and introduced Flat Clergy.
Winchester Cathedral (1972-1987) and Westminster Abbey the registration fees have been reduced.  Scholarships are
The Flat Stanley Project is used in many school districts to
(1988-98) and has served twice as president of the Royal available.    To register, contact Bruce Power tbpower@
teach reading, writing and geography.
College of Organists.  His numerous awards include his christchurchcathedral.org or 713.590.3310. 
Members were encouraged to go to the Flat Clergy

Youth to Gather for Choral Festival

website, download the Flat Clergy and take them with
their families as they went about their vacations. During
the summer, Flat Gerry Sevick, Flat Genevieve Razim, Flat

Deacon Bob Horner and Flat Deacon Eric Hungerford
traveled to six different continents, met Elvis and were part
of the filming of a new television show among other things.
The project helped parishioners keep faith and church
in their minds as they traveled and has turned into a year-
long community builder. Adventures of Flat Clergy are
available on www.flatclergy.com.
Holy Trinity Student
L
ocal Conductor Joseph Painter will conduct diocesan
youth at the 7th Annual Youth Choral Festival on
Saturday, November 13. Youth and their directors
will gather at Christ Church Cathedral for a day of
rehearsals, concluding with Evensong (free and open to
the public) at 3 p.m. Most anthems selected for this year’s
festival have been used at previous festivals, saving expenses
for returning choirs. Scholarships for the registration fees
are available on request.
Painter is a native of Bedford, Virginia, and holds
degrees from James Madison University and Cincinnati
College-Conservatory of Music. He has been the director
the Primary Choir Festival for the Houston Chapter of
the Choristers Guild and the Housemaster for the RSCM
Gulf Coast Course. He is the director of music ministries/
organist of St. James the Apostle, Conroe. He and his
choristers have attended the Choral Festival each year. He
is looking forward to working with the combined choirs,
teaching new concepts and reviewing music previously
covered in past festivals. To register, contact Bruce Power
tbpower@christchurchcathedral.org or 713.590.3310.

Council Wins State Honor 

T Houston Church Raises Awareness on
he Titan Council of Holy Trinity Episcopal Middle
School, Houston, was recently recognized for its

Human Trafficking
efforts to create a theme and a song for the state level
of student councils.  The Titan Council entered its theme of
Stu-Co’s Got It Going On for the contest by sending in a

S
DVD of their theme and a repeat-after-me song to Carolyn
t. John the Divine, Houston, is offering a program to centers, theme parks and online.
Solomon who presents workshops for student councils in the
learn more about saving children caught in human- Learn more about what is happening in the US and
State of Texas on behalf of TEPSA.
trafficking situations. More than a quarter of a million in Houston and how you can help from Houston area
Students were notified that their DVD would be shown
children are trafficked within the United States annually. organizations: Free the Captives, Children at Risk and
all over the State of Texas  for the 2010 -2011 school year
Most find their way to or pass through Houston, one of Houston Rescue and Restore. The program will be held
during Student Council workshops. On November 1, 2010
the nation’s largest hubs for human trafficking. Underage Wednesday, October 13 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at St. John the
in Aldine, Texas, the council will perform their song at the
girls come from every ethnic background, large and small Divine, 2450 River Oaks Blvd. Dinner is available from 5-6
area student council workshop where they will be presented
towns, and are from affluent, middle class and lower-income p.m. for $5.00. RSVP for dinner or for more information,
with a trophy and will see the themed T-Shirts for the first
families. They are recruited from malls, schools, youth please contact: Mary Boyd at marycboyd@comcast.net.
time.

5 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010


St. John’s, Marlin
Church Target of Thieves
S t. John’s, Marlin, was broken into on September 12,
leaving some damage to the premises. “They must have
been looking for cash,” said Wendy Huber, pastoral leader
of the congregation. Huber said it did not appear that
computers and other electronic items were stolen. Local
media sent a reporter and camera man to cover the incident.
Nearby Presbyterian, Methodist and Baptist churches
were broken into in the week before the incident at St. John’s
and KWTX, Channel 10 Waco, reported that a Temple
man arrested August 21 “may be responsible for burglaries
at many of the more than 20 area churches at which recent
break-ins have been reported.”
St. Francis, Prairie View
VBS Goes Green for Jesus
F or two years, St. Francis of Assisi, Prairie View, has hosted
a community hand bell day camp. This year, the bell
camp was held in conjunction with Vacation Bible School.
The community responded to the free, all day camp that was
held for two weeks. Senior Warden Helen Boyer welcomed
more than three dozen children to Go Green for Jesus, a
program of songs, skits and daily lessons that emphasized
life applications. Members provided lunches, led etiquette
and dress workshops, led games and sports, helped children
make crafts and much more. Many children returned for
the second week for the hand bell camp where campers also
learned how to write thank-you notes, made jewelry and
puppets. The program owes its great success to the many
volunteers who gave freely of their time and expertise.
Good Shepherd, Friendswood
Grab your Opa and Oma and head to
Friendswood for Oktoberfest
G ood Shepherd, Friendswood, will hold its First Annual
Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 16, 2010 featuring
both live and silent auctions, door prizes and a bake sale. No
Oktoberfest would be complete without German food and
beer, and this one is no exception. The TubaMeisters, a tuba-
euphonium quartet from San Antonio who specialize in
traditional German music will be on hand as well. Proceeds
benefit the ministry of Good Shepherd.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and admission is $15/adults;
$10/children ages 3-12. The event is free for children under
3 and childcare will be provided. A television, laptop, Kindle
and Nintendo Wii are among the raffle items. The public is
invited. 1207 Winding Way, Friendswood, TX 77546, www.
gshepherd.net.
Correction:
An article about St. Christopher’s Thrift Store in the
September issue of the Texas Episcopalian was erroneously
located in Northwest Houston. The article was about St.
Christopher’s, League City, south of Houston, where they
have been ministering for 52 years. St. Christopher’s,
in Northwest Houston, also has a thrift store which has
served their area for many decades. We regret the error.
Tito was dictator of Yugoslavia, not Czechoslovakia as
noted in the movie listing for “Tito and Me” on page 4
of the September issue of the Texas Episcopalian. We
appreciate the attention to detail of our readers.
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
PARISH NEWS
St. Peter’s, Lago Vista
Responds to Neighbors in Need
D espite losing a number of members and vestry persons
when their priest left the Episcopal church last year, St.
Peter’s, Lago Vista, has not missed a beat. The congregation
called on its remaining members to continue their tradition
of community outreach and have provided a model service
in the face of temporary adversity.
The church’s Care and Concern Committee provides
food and emotional support for neighbors who are sick,
who are grieving or who have undergone trauma. The
group collects tomatoes for the food pantry at Hill Country
Community Ministries and also supports their clothes
closet.
During a teen splash day, swimmers donated two car
loads of new socks and underwear for the clothes closet.
Aluminum can collections support missionary work in
Honduras, and Campbell’s food labels help to support
Down Home Ranch, a working farm for people with
mental disabilities.
“
We have participated in recent community events
through our Holy Cow BBQ, donating profits to
community outreach,” said Penny Byrnes, noting that the
church celebrated its 25th anniversary this year. The church
also makes space available for local civic and charitable
organizations and home-school programs.
St. Cuthbert, Houston
Fifth Annual International Festival
S t. Cuthbert, Houston, will host their Fifth Annual
International Festival on Sunday, November 6 from
4-6 p.m. The festival honors all of the different countries
and backgrounds represented in St. Cuthbert’s unique
and diverse congregation and includes food, games,
entertainment, native dress and lots more. Children will
receive passports and use flag stickers to mark the countries
they visit including: Jamaica, Grenada, St. Lucia, Brazil,
Cuba, Mexico, Trinidad, Tobago, Antigua, Barbados,
Spain, Russia, Japan, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Liberia, Ghana,
Kenya, Germany, Italy, Scotland, Switzerland, England,
France and Latvia. St. Cuthbert is located at the corner of
West Road and Queenston, 17020 West Road, Houston,
Texas 77095, 281.463.7330. Visit www.stcuthbert.org for
more information.
6
The Great American Songbook
It Don’t Mean a Thing, if It Ain’t Got that Swing!
On Saturday, October 23, The Great American Songbook
will have you swinging to the music of renowned crooner,
David Stevens, and The Morris Nelms Quartet at St.
Christopher’s, Houston. The church will host an evening
of music from the richest era of songwriting including:
Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Rodgers and
Hart, Duke Ellington, and more. An elegant, candlelit
affair, the evening’s program will include: “Embraceable
You,” “I’ve Got It Bad and That Ain’t Good,” “I’ve Got
My Love to Keep Me Warm,” and “At Long Last Love.”
Admission includes a light supper of hors d’oeuvres and
desserts and beverage. Additional beverage tickets will be
available at the event. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and
the concert will begin at 7 p.m. Ticket prices are $25 in
advance and $30 at the door. Proceeds will benefit St.
Christopher’s Music Ministry. The church is located at
1656 Blalock Road, north of I-10. For more information,
or to purchase tickets, please call the church office at
713.465.6015.
Praying at 30,000 feet
By Arthur Callaway
E verything on this flight was going wrong. First, I was
stuck in a window seat. And I never sit in a window seat.
My bad knee cramps if I can’t stretch it into the aisle. The
battery in my iPod was shot. I’d finished my book, and now
my computer screen had died, so I couldn’t even catch up on
work.
I travel a lot for business, and plane rides were certainly
nothing new. But a flight with nothing to distract me? This is
sure going to be a long two hours, I thought.
I laid my head back. Maybe I could get some sleep. But
as soon as I closed my eyes, problems filled my mind, like the
drought we were having back home in Texas. It had been over
a month since we’d seen rain. My yard, my plants—everything
was dying. Farmers and ranchers were suffering.
I opened my eyes and turned my head to look out the
window. We were flying due south of Phoenix. The land far
below was a patchwork of tan and brown.
Then came a soft prompting: Why don’t you pray for those
people down there? They need rain too. I certainly had the time
up here. Lord, it’s been a hot dry summer. There’s a lot of folks
who need rain… I began. The plane flew on, and the scenery
changed to mountains, then cities and freeways.
Sometimes all I could see were layers of clouds. But I
never ran out of things to pray for: mothers, fathers, children,
grandparents, the earth…
When I finally felt the soft thud of the landing gear
against the runway, I could hardly believe so much time had
passed. In fact, I had never felt so good at the end of a flight.
I was energized. Hopeful. Ready to face whatever might come
my way. It wasn’t until I exited baggage claim and headed
out to the parking lot with my gear that I realized something
extraordinary—it was raining.
Callaway is a member of Christ Church, Cedar Park
Reprinted with permission from Guideposts. Copyright © 2010 by Guideposts.
All rights reserved. www.guideposts.org
 PARISH NEWS

Holy Spirit Says

“Water!”

The only water source for Maro’s home is an improvised

outdoor shower stall. There is no toilet or sanitary drainage
associated with the house. Christine Tisone and Cat Barr,
members of St. Francis, College Station, stayed in this home,
and the stream uphill was diverted to another village during
most of their stay.

A
fter the earthquake in Haiti, the Outreach Council
at St. Francis, College Station, began exploring
international possibilities to do mission. Parishioner
Christine Tisone, an A&M faculty member in the Child
and Adolescent Health Research Lab oversees a study abroad
program in neighboring Dominican Republic (DR) and
illuminated critical needs in this area to the Council. Tisone
spent 12 years in the DR, partly as a Peace Corps trainer
previous to her position at TAMU.
St. Francis sent another member, Cat Barr, to join Tisone
in the DR for 10 days in June. “We started a campaign called
‘Not Just a Band-Aid’, – partly to make people ask questions,”
Barr grins, “but also to reinforce our intention to support
sustainable changes. St. Francis-folk brought in boxes of
Band-Aids and made small first-aid kits as appreciation gifts
for Dominicans who talked with us. My assignment was to
spend some time getting to know people in the countryside,
and be open to the Spirit. The Spirit seemed pretty focused
on water – there was none in Jarabacoa the first couple days,
and when we went to the campo, their stream had been
temporarily diverted to another village.”
St. Francis is still discerning how the small parish can
contribute in an ongoing way that not only serves immediate
needs but also supports the efforts of the residents. We hope
that many members, including our youth, can get to know
the people of the Dominican Republic as we go forward and
that we can develop relationships that make this truly mutual
ministry.

7 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010


Bird Sculptor is
No Little Inspiration: Creation Honored Artist
Paintings by Houston artist, Wendy Wight, now at EDOT Gallery
The Light Will Win Acrylic, Paper, Oil Stick on Canvas, 36 x 60
“
I believe that artists are bestowed with a unique gift
from God to be shared with the world,” said Wendy
Wight, whose Creation series is currently on view at the
EDOT Gallery, 1225 Texas Ave., Houston, in the Episcopal
Diocesan Center. A reception will be held October 8, 5 -7
p.m.
Wight used the creation story in Genesis as the
inspiration for six panels representing six days of work.
They depict God’s creation of light, heaven and earth, water,
land, animals and humans. “The story within my work can
resonate with viewers and can visually depict what happens
in our lives,” Wight added.
Wight imagined how creation would look if she were
watching as it happened. She depicted animals as spheres.
Animals know instinctively what they need to do as opposed
to humans, who sometimes lose direction. Some of Wight’s
images of people are clear, others are not, showing a loss of
Church Still Helping Ike Victims
H urricane Ike struck September 13, 2008, and
since then  Texas Episcopal Disaster Relief and
Development has been working in Galveston, repairing
the homes damaged  by the  massive storm. To date,
TEDRD has gutted and/or repaired more than  more
than 140 homes through the use of more than 3,000
individual volunteers that have committed 50,000 hours
of work. These volunteers have saved Galvestonians
more than $1 million in labor costs!
“We are so grateful for the support of the Episcopal
Diocese of Texas and all those who have volunteered or
donated,” said Maggie Immler. “This anniversary marks
a somber time for many Galvestonians who have lost so
much, but we are happy to report the incredible progress
we have made.”
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
DIOCESAN NEWS
understanding between day five and six.
Two additional series are included in the show, one a
Bird craver Myrv Cron
colorful and dynamic depiction of the symbol of the cross
and another using bits of lobster traps that drifted onto the
By Carol Muegge
Maine shore and other flotsam, old maps and books. Wight
A
has assembled a fanciful “House Series” where “there doesn’t t the end of a curvy wooded drive in Chappell Hill,
seem to be a solid ground or anything that is plumb.” The TX, resides a treasure trove of life-like sculptures,
tide that sometimes drops nine feet in a day inspired this capturing the splendor of many wild bird species.
series, she explains. “The tide never stops. Like our lives, it is The sculptures are the work of Myrv Cron – a self-taught
in constant motion. Nothing stays the same.” artist. Cron will be the Honored Artist at the Second Annual
EDOT Gallery is open Monday through Friday, 9-5. St. Peter’s Art Show and Sale in Brenham November 5-6. This
Call 713.520.6444 to make arrangements for groups. year’s show includes 20 artists, most of whom are members
Wight holds a art degree from the University of Rhode of St. Peter’s. Show hours are 5-8 p.m., Friday and 10-2 on
Island and has attended the University of Houston and the Saturday.
Glassell School of Art in Houston. She is a finalist in the Cron began carving when he was a Boy Scout and later
2010 Hunting Art Prize  and has shown in many galleries made furniture for his family. He returned to his craft after
and exhibitions. retiring to nearby Chappell Hill with his wife, Katie. He
began by whittling ducks but became absorbed in studying
different types of birds and increased his repertoire to include
raptors and songbirds. The majority of his work has been
commissioned by friends and referrals.
Each bird takes about one year to complete and begins
with a block of Basswood. Cron draws the bird’s outline
TEDRD
continues
and then takes off everything that does not look “bird-
like,” adding the head and feathers individually. Some of
his birds have brought as much as $74,000 at auctions to
repairing
Monday-S h omes ever benefit charities in Brenham. Specimens at the art show will
at urday. y be much more affordable.
Volunteer “I’m only having fun with this,” Cron says. “I’m not
s are neede looking for a commercial market or another career. I just
d through
Fall and in out the enjoy creating these for myself and for friends who appreciate
to the Win the magnificence of wild birds.”
ter. Conta
Blount at ct Luke Other art at the show and sale will include: jewelry,
7 13.252.96 painting, photography, carved gourds, ceramics, stained
93 or volu
epicenter. nteer@ glass, and eggshell mosaic Christian icons among others.
org to sch
edule a tr St. Peter’s is located at 2310 Airline Dr., Brenham, TX.
ip. For additional information and directions to the church, call
979.836.7248 or go to www.stpetersbrenham.org.
8
 DIOCESAN NEWS

Malawi Pilgrimage Brings

Deeper Understanding
D
ebbie Allensworth felt a strong pull to be more involved got very quiet when everyone had
internationally when she signed up for a pilgrimage to their food - more people showed
Malawi last spring. Not quite knowing what to expect up towards the end carrying small
on a “pilgrimage” she went on faith. During a visit to Texas last bowls … I did not realize they
spring, Bishop James Tengatenga explained what he hoped to were some of the recipients since
accomplish from the pilgrimage experience for people engaged in they were working so hard to take
the partnership relationship that the Diocese of Texas signed with care of everyone else. In the end -
the Diocese of Southern Malawi last February. every single drop of porridge we
“It was a chance for me to go and experience Malawi - its could scoop out was gone and more
people, culture, beautiful scenery, successes and concerns. The plan people were still waiting.:
was not to go and figure out what I could fix, rather it was to go and People loved having their
make relationships - hopefully some that would continue and be a pictures taken and delighted in
benefit to people in Malawi and people of St. Andrew’s, Pearland,” seeing the pictures on a digital
Allensworth said. camera, regardless of their age,
She joined a half dozen others from around the Diocese of Allensworth said. The group learned
Texas and headed to Malawi, a predominantly agricultural country that the feeding program helps 70
where about 90 percent of the population lives in rural areas. people a day for $90 a week. “Their
The south central African country is landlocked and is among hope is to add a second meal a day
the world’s least developed countries. Their economy depends on of rice and beans,” she said.
substantial assistance from the International Monetary Fund, the The group visited Trinity
World Bank and individual donor nations. There is a great need Anglican Secondary School, a
to develop exports, improve education and health facilities, fight boarding school run by the diocese
deforestation and erosion and deal with the ever growing threat of where dramatic changes have taken
HIV/AIDS. place because of support from St.
Power outages are common and running water is irregular, James’, NY, NY. Currently, the
even where piping exists. “We had no water for more than 2/3 of school has 66 students, is a four-year
the days while we were in Blantyre. This meant we used buckets school, equivalent to high school.

Photo by: Debbie Allensworth

of water to flush the toilet, washed our clothes in buckets and
attempted to bathe by mixing heated water with cold water in
those same buckets,” Allensworth said. “It’s a little surreal to be in
a modern bathroom scrubbing your clothes in the same way as the
people we saw at the river.”
She described the home of host family James and Lindizya
Buliyani with their yard full of papaya and mango trees, poinsettias
and “saw our first glimpse into both the hospitality of the people
of this country as well as learned about some of the incredible
hardships faced by the country.” James and Lindizya have put 22
children through boarding school and college, although they have
only three biological children. The other children, orphans of the
AIDS pandemic, “needed a family to belong to,” she was told.
“Every single house we visited had extra children living there who
were orphans.”
The Buliyanis started a paper making project and a piggery
where they raise pigs to sell for extra income to help support the
children’s education.
They found gasoline at $8 a gallon in a country where many
families live on $45 a month. At a church in Ndirande, a town
of 1.4 million residents “living in extremely close proximity to
each other,” the priest told her his biggest need was to clothe the
preschool children in the area. It had been two years since he had
received donations from the UK.
Allensworth visited a feeding program for orphans and
widows in Thyolo (pronounced Cho-lo) where they were greeted by
church women singing and dancing in welcome.
They served porridge to the children and women. “Everything
Their hopes are to double the
enrollment. They rent computers
but have no internet access and still
need to improve facilities for the
students. A large garden helps to
feed the students and they hope to
raise poultry in the near future.
Children from three villages
attend the Mlambe II Primary
School where some of the 700 A woman makes paper for stationary and books using recycled cardboard and paper in Thyolo
students walk three miles to attend. through a project sponsored by All Saints Anglican Church.
“After we parked the van, we walked
out into a sea of children, each one wanting to shake each of our that they had the knowledge but needed someone to help them
hands. They were a delight - never felt so much like a rock star. get going. Now they are training people all over the Diocese of
This school reaches some of the poorer villages outside Blantyre. Southern Malawi on permaculture techniques, which provide
A group of Episcopalians from Colorado has been sponsoring this sustainable, natural agriculture, helping women provide income
school and sent a huge container filled with books for their library,” and food for their families,” Allensworth explained.
Allensworth said. “I met so many wonderful people in Malawi and learned
Kitchen gardens sponsored by St. James’, NYC, have made so much about their lives, their church, their attitudes and their
a great impact in the diocese, working with local women’s groups generosity. I came back inspired and still not sure where to go
called the Mother’s Union. Love’s Harvest, as the program is called, next. I hope that this pilgrimage serves as a catalyst to find ways to
helps villages build piggeries and get the initial pigs. They train 10 connect with the people of Malawi, that we will host pilgrims from
people from the village to come and take care of the pigs and when Malawi coming to learn about us, and that others might venture to
the second set of piglets are born, some are given to the women to take a trip to Malawi in the future, if not to do mission work, then
start piggeries of their own.” maybe to play golf, teach a short class at one of their universities, or
A massive agricultural area has been planted at the seminary go on a pilgrimage of your own. I promise no matter how you get
in Zomba, and they are just starting a fish farm. “Love’s Harvest connected with the people of Malawi, you will forever be changed,”
started because some women from Malawi told visitors from NYC Allensworth concluded.

9 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010

Roots to Wings and Back Again, Continued from page 1
Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA Center, Houston
3, 2010.
Tellepsen returned to Norway in 1912 to marry
his wife, Ingeborg. After the breathtaking landscape of
her native land, she was not thrilled with Houston’s flat
panorama, but was soon taking English lessons and raising
a family. Their leadership in the community grew as Tom,
then his son Howard, and the next generation with Karen,
Howard, Jr., and Tom II followed in their parents’ footsteps.
“We have never had a family with such a legacy as
the Tellepsen family … Their leadership, spirit of service
and concern for others is simply unmatched,” said Clark
D. Baker, president and CEO of Houston’s YMCA. If you
count the great-great grandchildren involved in sports at the
Y, it’s five generations “and counting” said Howard, Jr.
“The Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA allowed
us to tell our family history,” said Tom Tellepsen, II, an
active member of St. Martin’s, Houston. Throughout the
building’s five stories, photos and narrative carry the parallel
stories of the family’s involvement and the expansion of the
Y from that first downtown location to more than three
dozen neighborhood centers.
“It’s the story of my grandfather coming from Norway
as an immigrant, starting out with nothing and building
his [construction] company. He built wharfs at the Port of
Houston commercial buildings, churches and, at the same
time, became involved in the Episcopal Church of the
Redeemer, down the street from where he lived. His ties to
Redeemer and the Y paralleled each other,” Tom II added.
Tellepsen’s son, Howard, Sr., worked with his father
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
rector of St. Martin’s.
“Daddy always said he didn’t feel obligated to give
back,” Tom II explained. “He felt privileged and honored
to give back. I’m glad he had the gifts, the capacity and of
course, the values that he had to pass along.”
In the late 1950s, as President of the Chamber of
Commerce, Howard, Sr., commemorated Houston’s
population reaching one million. The event was held at
Miller Outdoor Theatre, which the Tellepsen company had
built when Hermann Park was still “in the boondocks” and
where then 10-year-old Howard, Sr., had worked as a water
boy.
“My father was always amazed at what his own father
had accomplished. Both of them had a tremendous work
ethic, matched only by their faith in God,” said Tom II,
adding, “They had faith in themselves, their fellow man,
their family and in God. Back then the work my grandfather
did was done with a handshake.”
Howard, Sr., was Chairman of the Port Commission
for 14 years, helping to move Houston’s port to container
shipping. During that time he built the
Seafarer’s Center, which houses a vital
ministry of the Episcopal Church, a
chaplaincy to mariners.
Both Tom II and Howard, Jr., agree
that their father was a humble man who
preferred to remain anonymous in his
giving. “Daddy treated CEOs just like
he treated postal workers and he called
everyone by name … It was never about
‘him,’” they said.
“We saw the respect our grandfather
had for his wife, and our dad had for our
mother. I just know that came from our
faith, our involvement in the Church …
we saw and felt it was important … part
YMCA President/CEO Clark Baker, YMCA Association Board Chair Will Williams, of our foundation,” Howard, Jr., said.
Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA Board Member Howard Tellepsen and Fritz Working with the YMCA
Guthrie and Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA Center Executive Mandy Stelzer cut
the ribbon at the new facility at 808 Pease on September 14. to develop their shared story, the
Tellepsen’s third generation in Houston,
in the construction business and also was able to give much
Karen, Howard, Jr., and Tom II identified four common
time to the church and community. “His church, that
values: faith, family, service and learning. Glass panels for
was the most important thing,” Tom II said of his father’s
each are featured in the new YMCA building along with
commitment to the Episcopal Church. He and his wife
the shared narrative of the Tellepsen family over the last
June were members at St. James’ on Southmore and later
100 years. The fifth floor is dedicated to learning. “Many
St. Martin’s, where he built the sanctuary in 1958. He was
people don’t realize that the Y has been a real innovator
very involved with the YMCA, Boy Scouts and United Way
in education,” Howard, Jr., said. Besides the architectural
as well.
classes his grandfather took in 1910, and the English classes
“We are fortunate that a family that has, and continues
that his grandmother attended, the South Texas College of
to have, such an impact on the city of Houston, is also
Law also started at the Y.
intimately connected to the family of the Diocese of Texas
“Working on the YMCA project gave us a marvelous
and St. Martin’s parish. The Tellepsens have served as leaders
opportunity to show people the power of volunteerism,
on every level of St. Martin’s and have been good friends
how one family can go through generation after generation
to all four of our rectors,” said the Rev. Russell Levenson,
10
Roots to Wings and Back Again, Continued from page 10
giving to a non-profit and growing, “My faith is very simple,”
changing and maturing together,” said Tom II, “I’ve always seen
Howard, Jr., said. God within me … I just have
After sailing around the world twice never had trouble finding him
at the turn of the twentieth century, … and I’m aghast at where I
Tellepsen did not have the money he took Him in my early travels
needed to become a sea captain. His [but] I’m sure grateful.”
father had died in an accident helping Howard, Jr., concurs.
to build the Williamsburg Bridge in “I pray every day … I don’t
New York, far from his. Tellepsen’s know what I would do
mother worked as a seamstress. “I don’t without the strong faith that
think my grandfather ever knew his I have … being able to do for
dad,” Tom II said. He decided to come others is part of my faith.”
to America when he couldn’t be a sea In his concluding
captain. remarks at the YMCA’s
The sense of volunteerism is not a ribbon cutting and dedication
particular value Tom Tellepsen brought ceremony on September 14,
from his native Norway. “Neither was Howard, Jr., said: “It has
his faith,” Tom II said. “Norwegians been said that parents and
were not predominantly devout … he their parents before them
was just so grateful.” bequeath to their children
“And we are grateful,” Howard, two fundamental orders of Howard and Howard Jr. survey the “Y” under the watchful
Jr., added. “I’m hopeful that our story life: that of roots and wings. spirit of Tom, continuing 100 years of Tellepsen volunteerism
at the “Y”.
will engage those who go through the However, I believe a revision
Y in terms of this community and the is in order … the progression
Tom Tellepsen, age 15, taken at Marseilles
involvement that is possible … There could very easily be viewed as The Tellepsens added much
are so many ways to give … We’ve seen it [in our family] roots, then wings, and ultimately back to roots again.”
and so it’s by example that we want to continue to give.” There seems to have been good soil in the garden and
to Houston’s landscape.
The two give due credit to the women of the family for lots of loving gardeners to bear so much fruit. A partial list includes:
their strong faith and community commitment.
The Miller Outdoor Theatre
“I don’t care who your father is, it would be a real
mountain to climb if your mother weren’t along The Museum of Fine Arts
side-by-side. Our parents and grandparents were
Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church
both remarkable teams,” Tom II said.
“The one thing that stands out for me,” he Episcopal Church of the
added, “is my parents’ faith. I saw it in rough times Redeemer (where Tom Tellepsen was an
in business, they would walk over to the Wayside
Chapel at St. Martin’s several times a week, just active church leader until his death in 1975)
the two of them … their first response to any St. Martin’s Episcopal Church
difficulty was to go to the church.” Another thing
he remembers clearly is that his parents never The Shamrock and Rice Hotels
gossiped. They never dwelled in the negative, Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church
but “always tried to see the brighter side,” an
attribute that is difficult in a culture fascinated
Houston Country Club
by celebrity gossip in the National Enquirer and The Jewish Community Center
People Magazine.
St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital
As immigrants, Tom and Ingeborg Tellepsen
embraced their new home, worked hard and never All Saints Chapel at Camp Allen
felt a sense of entitlement. They lived grateful
The Diocesan Center of the
lives, and reveled in the opportunity to serve,
to be involved and to give back to their church Pictured l-r: June Tellepsen (Mrs. Howard Tellepsen, Sr.), her daughter Episcopal Diocese of Texas
and community. These values they gave to their Karen Tellepsen and granddaughter Ellen Ault, who continue the legacy The Tellepsen Family Downtow YMCA
of service in the Tellepsen family. Kathy Tellepsen (Mrs. Tom Tellepsen II,
children and their children’s children. not pictured) currently serves as chair of the St. James’ House board.

11 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010

 DIOCESAN NEWS

Touring Historic Churches in England

Cost: $1400 Does not include travel to Hereford
Reservation deadline: December 1, 2010
A deposit of $250 per person is required by December
1, 2010 to hold a reservation. Payment should be made
to the Walter Mace Memorial Chapter, VGEC and
mailed to Richard Evans at:
Richard V. Evans, President
Walter Mace Memorial Chapter, VGEC
Ed Note: Just prior to the 2008 Lambeth Conference –a global meeting of bishops help at Canterbury every 10 years– 309 Fannin Drive
Bishop Suffragan Rayford High spent time in the Diocese of Hereford in southwest England, learning about the church Hewitt, TX 76643
in this historic area. As a result of his visit, I struck up a friendship with Anni Holden, the director of communications for For questions, contact Richard at: evans.62@gmail.com
the Diocese of Hereford, sharing pictures and stories about Bishop High’s visit, so that I could pass those on to our readers
in Texas.
Some of the churches in Hereford have portions that were built by the Normans. Pastoral, rural landscapes speckled From here we go to Ludlow, a very popular tourist
with black, wooly sheep surround numerous stone churches packed full of history and lore. In many small villages, the destination with a huge castle (ruins), black and white historic
parish has reclaimed their original place as a center of the community, adding libraries, postal offices, after school programs building, one of the few pure Norman churches in England and
and movie theatres in back of the naves to engage the local population and provide services for their neighbors. one corner of the famous food triangle (Ludlow, Abergavenny
We have planned an exciting opportunity for a number of our members to visit Hereford next June. Whether you and Hereford) with Michelin starred restaurants and lots of very
local produce. A guided tour of the Church and time to wander.
are an avid photographer, history buff or music lover, this intimate trip promises to bring with it new friends and a greater
Service at Ludlow Church.
appreciation for our shared history. One of the many attractions at the Hereford Cathedral is the Hanging Library, which
History, heritage and food in Shropshire
houses books that are literally more than 1000 years old. Limited reservations are available. Please send your deposit to
Richard Evans (see box left). Read more about the Diocese of Hereford at www.hereford.anglican.org/ or contact me for a
Tuesday, June 14
brochure at cbarnwell@epicenter.org or call 713.353.2140. Carol E. Barnwell
The Black & White Village Tour
Wednesday, June 8 Saturday, June 11 The essence of Herefordshire. Start at Leominster Priory which
dates from 660 (yes 660), possibly the place of longest continual
6 p.m. Opening Reception and Dinner Kilpeck andThe Golden Valley Christian worship in England. Pembridge via Eardisland. Visit
Meet the Bishop of Hereford in The Great Hall of the Bishops’ Guided tour of Kilpeck Church, the second attraction after the the Church to see the work of the Herefordshire School of
Palace, the original part of the Medieval campus. It was much rebuilt Cathedral in Herefordshire. It must have the most photographed carving and work by the King’s Carpenter. On to Weobley for
and extended in the 15th and 16th Centuries with a Georgian Norman door in the country (local guide). From there to Dore tea at Weobley Church.
makeover in the 18th. Drinks before dinner at All Saints’ Cafe and Abbey to meet a local guide and author of a book on the Abbey,
Church, (a unique combination of both!). which was a Monastery until Henry VIII ransacked them all! Bacton
Church is next, where again our guide is the expert on Blanche Parry.
Thursday, June 9 Quick stop in Peterchurch (cup of tea!). Over the top of the valley
and a visit to Bredwardine Church, built on a Celtic mound, so a
Hereford Cathedral all day
place of worship from time immemorial and the burial ground of
A tour of the 800-year-old building. Visit the shrines and have an the Victorian diarist, Francis Kilvert. His diaries paint a picture of
explanation of the 21st Century Art Program. A guided tour of the the hard life in the marches in the 19th Century. Worship service
Chained Library (yes the books really are chained to the shelves) during the day.
with an explanation and interpretation of the world’s largest medieval
A church crawl through some of the loveliest countryside via amazing
map, the Mappa Mundi. Talk about the Perpetual Trust and a visit
historic buildings.
to the Cathedral Stonemasons yard.
www.herefordcathedral.org Sunday, June 12
A full but relaxed day after yesterday’s travel. The Mother Church of
Hereford Cathedral
the diocese, its history heritage and today’s role
The main family service of Holy Communion is at 10 a.m.
Friday, June 10 followed by Matins at 11:30 a.m. Coffee is served after the Dora Abbey, founded 1147
Eucharist, so a chance to meet fellow church goers. Free time
Bridgnorth via Severn Valley Railway for the rest of the day. Evensong is at 5:30 p.m.
A coach to Kidderminster to pick up the steam train to Bridgnorth. Worship time and spiritual time and space to recharge the batteries.
Our guide will be a local vicar who is also a train driver on this route!
Train trip through beautiful English countryside, most of it in the Monday, June 13
Diocese of Hereford. Guided tour of Bridgnorth with town guide.
Visit to St. Leonard’s and St. Mary’s churches, a contrast in buildings. Stokesay & Ludlow
Fish and chip pub lunch. Short service at St. Mary’s. Funicular Stokesay Castle is quite simply the finest and best preserved,
railway to bus back to Hereford. fortified medieval manor house in England. Set in peaceful
countryside near the Welsh border, the castle, timber-framed
www.visitbridgnorth.co.uk or www.svr.co.uk
gatehouse and parish church form an unforgettably picturesque
A day in the north of the diocese. Stunning countryside and a day group.
through the ages.
Black & White Village

Texas Episcopalian • October 2010 12

 Calendar

Calendar
October
1-2 Exploring a New Path to Full Inclusion featuring Bonnie Anderson, president of the
Episcopal Church’s House of Deputies, hosted by Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas
Ave., Houston. “Texas Episcopalians committed to the full inclusion of lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people in the life and ministry of The Episcopal
Church conceived and planned this conference to celebrate the diversity of the Episcopal
Diocese of Texas and to promote heartfelt and thoughtful conversation,” said organizers.
Begins with Eucharist on Friday at 7 p.m., continues Saturday, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. No
registration fee. More information, www.movingforwardtexas.org.
The Board Members of
2-3 Fair Trade gift bazaar, All Saints’, 209 West 27th Street, Austin, TX, on Saturday and
Sunday, beginning at 9 a.m. both days. Contact Jeanine Cuellar jeaninemcdc@gmail.
com for more information.
St. James’ House
cordially invite you and your friends to attend
3 Three Choirs Festal Evensong: Choirs of St. John the Divine, St. Martin’s, and St.

The 50th Anniversary

Thomas Episcopal Churches at St. John the Divine, 2450 River Oaks Boulevard,
Houston, TX 77019. 3 p.m concert, 3:30 Festal Evensong. www.sjd.org
8 A new show featuring Wendy Wight’s “Honor the Light” at the Diocesan Center
EDOT Gallery, 1225 Texas Ave., Houston, through Oct. 29 with an opening from 5-7
p.m. on October 8. The gallery is open during regular business hours, Monday through Silver Tea
Friday, 9-5. EDOT Gallery is accepting submissions for 2011 and 2012 exhibitions.
at the home of Bette and Ralph Thomas
E-mail Marilyn Biles at marilyn@marilynbiles.com for information.
202 Arborway, Houston, Texas 77057
8-9 Bailey Lecture Series, All Saints’, Austin featuring Judy Fentress-Williams, associate
 Tuesday, October 19, 2010, 3 - 6 p.m.
professor, Old Testament, Virginia Theological Seminary on the “Book of Ruth: A
Valet Parking available
Dialogue of Identity.” For details visit www.allsaints-austin.org or call 512.476.3589.
RSVP, if attending to Margaret Baze at
8-9 Bishops’ Conference on Outreach, featuring Ruby Payne, one of the country’s leading mebaze@gmail.com or 713.467.1887
experts on poverty. Develop accurate mental models of poverty, middle class and
wealth for a new lens through which to develop and improve outreach programs. Hear St. James’ House, a retirement community in Baytown, is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas
additional speakers and learn about some of the outreach ministries sponsored by the 153 that provides a high level of care in a loving Christian environment. It is open to all, regardless of financial
resources. If you are unable to attend; but would like to support this ministry, please mail your donation
congregations in the diocese. 5 CEUs awarded. For more information or to register, go to to St. James’ House, 5800 West Baker Road, Baytown, Texas 77520.
www.campallen.org.
www.stjameshouse.org.
8-9 “The Church of the Future: Conversations with Phyllis Tickle” sponsored by the
Diocese of West Texas, at St. Luke’s, 11 St. Luke’s Lane, San Antonio, Texas 78209.
Registration of $50 includes Saturday lunch. For information see Special events at
19 50th Anniversary St. James’ House Silver Tea at the home of Bette and Ralph Thomas
www.dwtx.org or contact Lou Taylor at 210.824.5387 or lou.taylor@dwtx.org.
202 Arborway, Houston, Texas 77057 on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 from 3 to 6 p.m.
15-16 Episcopal Church Women 109th Annual Retreat at St. Mark’s, Beaumont. Call Valet parking is available and encouraged. Please respond if accepting to Margaret Baze,
409.832.3405 or email gdavis8@gt.rr.com for more information. See story, page 12. mebaze@gmail.com or call 713.467.1887
16 River Oaks Chamber Orchestra Season Opener at St. John the Divine, 2450 River
Oaks Boulevard, Houston, TX 77019. 5 p.m. World premiere of Rhapsodie for String November
Bass and Chamber Orchestra by Scott McAllistair as well as works by Mendelssohn and
Ligetti. Childcare available. Tickets are $25/general admission, $10/students and are 7 All Saints’ Choral Evensong at St. John the Divine, 2450 River Oaks Boulevard,
available at www.rocohouston.org or 713.665.2700. Houston, TX 77019. 3 p.m. concert/3:30 Solemn Evensong. www.sjd.org
17 51st Annual Diocesan (Adult) Choral Festival, Christ Church Cathedral, Houston. 13 7th Annual Diocesan Youth Choral Festival for those in grades 3-12 under the direction
“Ascribe Unto the Lord: A Concert of Music and Readings celebrating the 200th of guest conductor Joseph Painter of St. James’, Conroe. During the festival day, choristers
anniversary of the birth of Samuel Sebastian Wesley.” Choirs from diocesan parishes, will join together to rehearse and offer the music they have prepared with care, singing in
conducted by British organist and conductor Martin Neary, former Organist and Master the beauty of Christ Church Cathedral. The day concludes with the Festival Evensong at
of the Choristers of Winchester Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. Anthems by Handel, 3 PM. The public is invited to attend. To register as a participant, contact Bruce Power
Wesley and Neary are available as free downloads this year. To register as a participant, tbpower@christchurchcathedral.org, 713.590.3310.
contact Bruce Power tbpower@christchurchcathedral.org 713.590.3310. The public is
invited to attend the Festival service of hymns, anthems and organ selections at 6 p.m.
17 Musical Reflections, St. Andrew’s, Bryan, recital series on the Windows, 2:30 p.m. Integrity Houston Eucharist
Features music reflecting the stained glass window of Christ rescuing Peter in the water. (followed by dinner)
The recital will begin with “Tu es Petrus” (You are Peter) by Franz Liszt, continue with Third Friday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
“The Storm,” by Jacques-Nicolas Lemmens, and conclude with settings of the chorale
“Out of the depths I cry unto thee,” including Organ Sonata No. 3 by Felix Mendelssohn.
Golding Chapel at Christ Church Cathedral
View www.standrewsbcs.org or contact 979.822.5176 for more information. 1117 Texas Avenue, Houston

F re e P a r k i n g in the Cathedral Garage at Texas and San Jacinto

13 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010

 DIOCESAN NEWS

Changes in Budget Formula Count Local Ministry

T
he Executive Board of the Diocese of Texas, acting
on a recommendation from the Finance Committee,
has revised the assessments/asking formulation.
“These changes will allow our congregations to count the
ministry they are already doing in the formulation and it will
give us a new and more realistic way to fund our common
ministry,” said Bishop Andy Doyle.
The 2011 Missionary Asking will be presented in two
parts: the asking and local outreach spending. In past years,
the Diocesan Missionary Asking has increased beyond that
of the Missionary Budget’s spending, and might, in some
ways, have caused congregations to reduce their response. In
amount specified for the Diocese of Texas is the total amount
needed to fund the requests in the Missionary Commitment
Catalog (now available at www.epicenter.org). The catalog
lists ministries throughout the diocese that receive support
from congregations through this funding program and
includes mission congregations, college ministries, clinics,
feeding and after-school programs, and much more. Vestries
review the catalog and may direct their asking dollars.
The second part of the Asking - the Local Outreach
Spending - is new. The portion not needed to fund mutual
ministries will be available to local congregations to do more
local ministries. “It is my expectation that you will take these

For questions or to request a presentation, contact

Kathy Culmer, Mission Funding coordinator Episcopal Diocese of Texas

at kculmer@epicenter.org or call 713.520.6444

Diocesan Center
1225 Texas Ave.
Houston, TX 77002-3504

ext. 1050. Please review online Mission Funding 2 0 11 M i s s i o n f u n d i n g

Opportunities CD

materials at www.epicenter.org/missionfunding.
order to be more transparent, and to take into consideration
the tremendous amount of local ministry taking place in the
diocese, the Executive Board has fixed the Missionary Asking
at the level that will fund the joint outreach and ministry
that congregations and the diocese undertake together. With
the National Church Asking included, this amount is slightly
more than $5 million.
“As in past years, the portion of the Missionary Asking
for the Episcopal Church has been broken out, but the
funds and utilize them to revitalize or create opportunities
for ministry in your own congregation, not spend them on
operations,” Bishop Doyle said. He would like to see current
ministries expand or new ones launched. Each congregation
will report new or expanded initiatives to Bob Biehl, diocesan
treasurer, when they file their 2011 parochial reports in 2012.
Missionary funds are still needed for the common
ministries supported through the diocesan missionary asking,
Bishop Doyle explained, adding that a 100 percent response
to the asking was necessary to continue these ministries.
He challenged leaders in the diocese to rethink
outreach to the local community in order to take advantage
of the changes in the asking formula. A link to the Mission
Opportunities Catalog can be found on the diocesan
homepage at: www.epicenter.org.

C.S. Lewis Retreat will be “heavenly”

Offers Writers Track
Are you curious about heaven? What could be
more heavenly than a weekend retreat in the secluded
woods of Camp Allen, enjoying the company of
Lewis scholars—some of the finest authorities on
eternity—this side of immortality? Noel Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul & Mary fame
“Lewis has probably accomplished as much as
any modern writer, both in his fiction and in his
sermons, to make Heaven believable.” Walter Hooper,
literary advisor to the estate of C.S. Lewis, wrote this
in his introduction to Lewis’s famous sermon, “The
Weight of Glory.”
Heavenly lectures by Malcolm Guite and Louis
Markos will explore heaven in the ordinary, revealing
the inconsolable secret and offering glimpses of life
October 29-31, Camp Allen
beyond the Shadowlands. Heaven is the subject of
the Friday evening panel with Randy Alcorn, author
of Heaven, David Mckechnie, Lael Arrington and
Andrew Lazo.
& the Ad Deum Dance Company, along with concert
pianist Linda Mckechnie will perform. Bag-End Café
will be a special treat when Noel & Malcolm sing and
strum together.
Want to publish or write for your church?
Keynote speaker, popular Christian author
Randy Alcorn, in a rare conference appearance, talks
about the life, thought processes & habits of a writer,
& how Lewis worked his way into most of his books,
fiction & non-fiction.
Noel PAUL Stookey of Peter, Paul, & Mary &
Malcolm Guite, founder of Mystery Train rock band,
chat about songwriting.
Agent Steve Laube will talk about trends and
take individual appointments. Additional speakers:
Dave Lindstadt – critique; Frank Ball - becoming
a creative genius; Lael Arrington - connecting with
today’s audience; Matt Boylston – poetry; Thomas
Umstettd - blogging, websites and Google ranking;
Yvon Prehn of Effective Church Communications -
interviewing & promotion. Learn about WinePress
- Partner in Custom Publishing.

Register now www.campallen.org

Texas Episcopalian • October 2010 14

 DIOCESAN NEWS

ECW Announces Scholarship Awards

Congratulations to the 2010 Vera Gang Scott Scholarship Recipients
By LisaDiane Etheredge during the 1920s, the women of the diocese had provided If you have not signed up yet, you still have time! Get all
money for her education. the details about the retreat, including: workshop details,
Elizabeth Angelone, a member
Today scholarships are awarded yearly from the interest schedule and registration information at the Annual Retreat
of St. Michael’s, Austin, attends
earned on the fund. Donations to increase the fund are section of the ECW website, which can be found under
St. Mary’s University; Catherine
greatly appreciated, as they increase the Episcopal Church “organizations” on www.epicenter.org. For more registration
Lundy-Peterson, a member of Christ
Women’s ability to assist more young women with their information, contact Gail Davis at gdavis@gt.rr.com or call
Church, Nacogdoches, attends
education. 409.832.3405.
Stephen F. Austin University; Cayra
For information regarding qualifications for the The outreach project for the 109th Annual Retreat
Madrid, a member of Good Shepherd,
scholarship and the 2011 Application Form, please refer will be Ubi Caritas, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of
Kingwood, attends the University of
to the ECW page under “organizations” on the diocesan Texas that provides quality healthcare for the uninsured in
Texas at San Antonio; Vania Perez,
website at: www.epicenter.org. Applications must be received Beaumont.   The medical clinic has been operational since
a member of St. Peter’s, Pasadena, attends San Jacinto
by March 31, 2011. 1998 and recently opened a dental clinic.   Tours to see
College and  Rachael Roth, a member of St. John’s, Silsbee,
Ubi Caritas will be provided during the retreat.  The clinic
attends Lamar State College.
The Vera Gang Scott Scholarship, established in 1972,
Reminder to Register for needs cotton balls, dental floss, toothbrushes, toothpaste,
is named for Scott, who donated her life savings to create a the ECW Annual Retreat cash donations.   Baskets will be available for you to bring
your donations to St. Mark’s.  Thank you, in advance, for
fund for scholarships for women in the Diocese of Texas. This year’s ECW Annual Retreat will be held on October supporting this wonderful ministry.  For more information
Scott’s generous gift was prompted by her own experience; 15-16 in Beaumont, and is hosted by the ladies of St. Mark’s. about this special healing ministry, see www.ubicaritas.org.

Register Now
www.campallen.org

Bishops’ Conference on

Outreach Ruby Payne to be featured presenter at

October 8 - 9, 2010, Camp Allen Bishops’ Outreach Conference.

15 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010


People
Pam Graham has been appointed pastoral leader at St.
Thomas’, Rockdale.
Wendy Trachte-Huber has been appointed pastoral leader
at St. John’s, Marlin.
Eric LeBrocq has been appointed pastoral leader at St.
John’s, Sealy.
The Rev. Ben Phillips, formerly an assistant at St. John
the Divine, Houston, has accepted a call as rector of St.
George’s, Dayton, Ohio
Mary Robbins has been appointed pastoral leader and
campus missioner at Sam Houston State University,
Huntsville.
The Rev. Shanna Suarez recently transferred from
Diocese of Oklahoma to Diocese of Texas and will serve as
the assistant rector at Trinity, Longview.
Francene Young has been appointed pastoral leader at St.
Luke the Evangelist, Houston.
Brotherhood of St. Andrew Austin Assembly officers:
• Jim Sparks (St. Matthew’s), president
• Jerry Lyle (Epiphany), vice president
• Ken Holloway (St. Richard’s), secretary
• Joe Page (Resurrection), treasurer
Bishop Rayford High threw an inside strike to kickoff the Astros
and the Dodgers, September 10, 2010.
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
DIOCESAN NEWS
Children’s Eucharist Guide Published
J
anie Stevens, diocesan missioner for Christian is no different. This course is
formation, and a group of veteran educators from across designed to help children, their
the diocese, have developed a Eucharist Instruction parents and their church family live
Curriculum for congregations.  The curriculum is intended into their baptismal promises as
for children who already receive communion as well as for they continue in the teaching,
those who have not yet done so. It is not meant to be a “First fellowship, breaking of bread
Communion” instruction.  and prayers the church is
“Children should always feel and believe they are called to do.”
a part of the family at table,” Stevens said, “just as they The curriculum is
should always feel a part of the communion of the family of available on the diocesan
Christians at the Lord’s Table.” website at www.epicenter.org/
“We all benefit from being together and in our home, christianformation and explains
we lovingly bring children to our own table, share the stories the symbolism of the Eucharist
of the family with them and absorb their joy and wonder so that children may be more
in the event at hand,” said Bishop Andy Doyle. “Church deeply aware of the mysteries of the faith.
Why Cursillo? Why not?
By the Rev. Reid Morgan
W
e clergy are “to equip God’s people for the work vision is especially
of his service, to the building up of the body of engaged in Cursillo.
Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NEV) Through personal
We also should recognize God’s “gift” of equipping in contact, sharing and
other people. I believe that there is no better way to support our giving, leaders are
ministry of teaching, equipping and energizing parishioners formed and grown.
than to send them to a place apart - in the presence of God They return to their
– with a group of lay and ordained Christians committed to congregations to be
the work of “building up the body of Christ.” engaged as leaders
Cursillo is a transformative experience and offers to and ministers
those who have attended a Cursillo weekend a framework that locally. They are
supports their journey of faith. Reunion Groups meet weekly equipped to be the first
to provide support, encouragement and accountability in a order of ministry as we are
loving and safe environment. reminded in the Catechism on
Our former bishop, Claude Payne envisioned a diocese page 855 of The Book of Common Prayer. This is the ministry
of “miraculous expectation,” and our current bishop, Andy that we are called to in our baptism and that we promise to
Doyle, identifies the following core values for the diocese: engage in through our Baptismal Covenant.
missionary emphasis, education and leadership, meeting Why Cursillo, you might still ask. Find someone in
human needs, responsive stewardship and excellence. your parish and ask them about their Cursillo experience.
Cursillo meets and lives into all of these core values. A While Cursillo may not be for everyone, it is for more than
Cursillo weekend engages all who attend, team and pilgrims, you might think. If you are clergy and think, “Not me,” ask
in these areas. People leave engaged and energized to be another presbyter about their experience or give me a call
involved deeply in the work that is presupposed by the values 512.5565433.
that have been articulated by the people of the Diocese of A Cursillo Weekend is an experience with the Living
Texas. God surrounded by the Holy Spirit and filled with the love
The work of forming and growing from our diocesan of Jesus, and no one can have enough of that.
SLEH Volunteers Donate Prayer Shawls
Looking for more ways to help comfort end-of-life patients and their families, Palliative Care Services and the St.
Luke’s Auxiliary prayer-shawl ministry knit prayer shawls. Volunteers provide prayer and solace for patients and
their families during difficult times, literally covering a patient in prayers with the shawls.
While knitting a prayer shawl, the knitters pray for the recipients, and most of the time never know who will
receive their gift and prayers. It is a moving and life-affirming experience to make this gift for a patient.
Since the program’s inception in 2004, the St. Martin’s, Houston, Circle of Prayer Shawl Knitters and St.
Luke’s Auxiliary member Shirley McKee, a member of Palmer Memorial, each has donated more than 50 shawls to
this ministry. Patients who receive the shawls and their families are touched by the loving gesture.
Novice and experienced knitters can participate equally. If you or your church group would like to be involved
in this opportunity, please contact Pam Lemp, director of Volunteer Services, at 832.355.3660.
16
 DIOCESAN NEWS
Bishop Hines Remembered
downtrodden and defenseless. In the following four years, he
so impressed the diocese that he was elected bishop coadjutor
in 1945.
His decade in this position under Bishop Clinton
Quin allowed him to advocate for issues dear to his heart.
He set four major goals for the diocese: developing new
congregations, establishing a solid Episcopal presence on
college campuses, creating a coeducational boarding and day
school, and recruiting and training able clergy for ordained
ministry.
During his tenure as coadjutor, Bishop
Hines oversaw the creation of forty-one new
congregations, a rate of growth exceeded only by
the Diocese of Florida. He extended campus
ministries from three to eleven colleges,
making the diocese the most expansive
and successful in the Episcopal Church.
The creation of St. Stephen’s School in
Austin in 1950 gave the diocese a premier
Christian secondary school. A year later,
Hines achieved his final goal when the
Episcopal Theological Seminary of the
The Rt. Rev. John E. Hines, Bishop of Texas and Presiding Bishop Southwest opened in the state capital.
Hines also focused his considerable
By the Rev. Ken Kesselus prophetic energy on the primary issue
J
ohn Hines was born in Seneca, South Carolina, on of the day – racial segregation and discrimination against
October 3, 1910. By the time he arrived at Christ blacks. Though concrete achievements were few, he carried
Church, Houston, as rector, thirty years later, he had this passion into his years as diocesan bishop, an office he
already established a reputation as a staunch defender of the assumed upon the retirement of Bishop Quin in 1955.
Seminary Celebrates Hines’ 100th
J ohn E. Hines (1910-1997), former dean of Christ Church Cathedral, Houston, diocesan bishop, builder of
congregations and educational institutions in the diocese of Texas, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church,
husband, father, and prophetic preacher will be remembered and celebrated at Seminary of the Southwest on
Thursday, October 7.
In John E. Hines: Granite on Fire, Ken Kesselus wrote, “Sustained by the courage of his faith and unwaveringly
committed to a belief that the church must risk dying for the sake of her mission, Hines never flinched in his
uncompromising support for the poor and defenseless.”
As diocesan bishop of Texas, Hines preached in 1963: “A bishop’s job is to keep his church family on the firing
line of the world’s most desperate needs and to learn to accept the exquisite penalty of such an exposed position.” He
kept his word throughout his leadership of the Episcopal Church, especially while he was Presiding Bishop during
particularly violent years of the civil rights movement.
Friends, members of the Hines family, seminarians and faculty will begin observance of John Hines Day with
Holy Eucharist at 11:45. The Rev. Micah Jackson, who holds the Hines chair of preaching at Southwest, will preach at
the service. Luncheon will follow in the Howell Dining Hall. Dean and President Doug Travis and Hines’ biographer,
Ken Kesselus will offer remarks and remembrances.
The public is invited, and the seminary requests RSVPs sent to tholley@ssw.edu.
17
Bishop Hines boldly declared that a cathedral was a
place for a bishop “to stand up” like the Prophet Amos and
say, “Woe to them that are at ease in Zion.” His decade in the
office bore out this admonition, as he demanded repentance
and change among his people and uncompromisingly
challenged injustice.
Despite sharp controversy and stiff opposition, Bishop
Hines advanced a cause he had championed his entire life. He
had insisted on an integrated seminary from the beginning,
but now succeeded in desegregating diocesan children’s
camps and St. Luke’s hospital. In 1963, St. Stephen’s became
the first fully desegregated coeducational boarding school in
the South.
During his twenty-five years in Texas, Bishop Hines
received national attention and grew in stature among
Episcopalians. In 1964, he was chosen as the 22nd presiding
bishop and began a controversial episcopate that revealed to
the entire church an extraordinarily gifted leader. Another
prominent leader of the day, Bishop Stephen Bayne, observed
that Bishop Hines’s steadfastness of faith and his zeal for the
Gospel could best be described as “Granite on Fire.”
A few months after his death in 1997, diocesan council
placed a commemoration of his life and ministry on its
liturgical calendar on October 3. The Diocese of Newark
soon followed. Though overlooked in the first publication
of the church’s Holy Women, Holy Men, surely John Hines
will soon be included on this list. His life was a testament
to leadership based on courage of faith and an unwavering
commitment to the belief that the church must risk dying for
the sake of her mission. John Hines should be remembered,
on the 100th anniversary of his birth, as a giant among us
who never flinched in his uncompromising support for the
poor and defenseless.
Lessons designated for Bishop Hines’ day include:
Amos 7:7-9a, II Corinthians 4:5-12 and Luke 9:23-26 as
well as Psalm 18:21-36.
Collect:
John E. Hines, Prophet and Bishop
Gracious God, thy Son hath taught us that in serving the poor
and the oppressed, we both serve Him and give the world a
glimpse of thy reign: Receive our thanks for the life and witness
of John Hines, servant and bishop, who with courage prophesied
against injustice, prejudice and oppression, thereby awakening
us to the demands of the Gospel. For the sake of the poor and
destitute among us strengthen us to risk giving ourselves as did
he. This we ask through Jesus Christ who bids us to take up our
cross and follow Him. Amen
For several videos about Bishop John Hines see: http://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=-oTxN4YS-m8&feature=related
Taped and edited by the Rev. Charles Sumners.
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
 NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

Episcopal Homeless Initiative Receives Federal

Funds to Mitigate Homelessness
T
hree Episcopal homeless ministries in Houston- Thelisa Palmer,
brought together by St. Luke’s Episcopal Health executive director of
Charities to develop shared outcomes for their Community of the Streets
clients- received a $1.25 Million grant as part of the Federal in mid-town Houston was
Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program.   thrilled with the award
The three agencies include: The Beacon, a ministry of the and looks forward to

Photo by Carol E. Barnwell

Cathedral in downtown Houston, Community of the Streets sharing case management
Outreach (COTS), a ministry of Trinity in mid-town and personnel across the three
the Palmer Way Station, a ministry of Palmer Memorial agencies. “We’re eager to
adjacent to the Texas Medical Center break the homelessness
The grant award allows the three agencies to grow their cycle in Houston, one
emergency case management and mental health services to family at a time and
provide much-needed stability for the growing homeless couldn’t have done it
population in downtown Houston.  without the Charities’ vision, support and encouragement
“For our clients, regular meals, mental health throughout the years,” she said. United Thank Offering Awards $2
services, and support to help them access services assisting In addition to case management, the funds granted Million for Mission and Ministry

with housing, job placement, and education, are often
among their most unmet needs. The challenges of securing
basic forms of subsistence such as food and shelter may
cause the homeless to delay or completely forego seeking
needed health and social services. Case management is
a mechanism for addressing this problem,” said Tracy
Burnett, executive director, The Beacon.
through the City of Houston Housing and Community
Development will allow Partners in Stabilizing Lives to
provide mental health counseling services. “Reconciling
past issues, as well as current problems and challenges, will
certainly help our clients to move toward a path of self-
sufficiency,” said Terry Henry, executive director of the
Palmer Way Station.
T
he United Thank Offering of The Episcopal
Church awarded 69 grants for 2010 for a total of
$2,163,740.93 for the mission and ministry of The
Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion. The grants
were awarded to projects in 43 Episcopal Church dioceses,
11 companion diocese relationships and 15 international
provinces. 
Known worldwide as UTO, the United Thank Offering
grants are awarded for projects that address human needs and
help alleviate poverty, both domestically and internationally.

Tutu and Daughter Author Made for Goodness Most of the grants focused on assistance to food
ministries, health clinics, refugee needs, young adults and the

T
construction of classrooms and program space.
his month, the Rev. Mpho For example, the Diocese of Alabama was awarded
A. Tutu will release her new $17,750 for a handicapped-accessible playground while
book Made for Goodness: and $60,000 was granted to the Diocese of Central Gulf Coast
Why this Makes all the Difference, to rebuild a parish hall that had been destroyed in 2004 by
which she co-authored with her Hurricane Ivan.
father, Archbishop Emeritus The smallest amount awarded, $1,300, went to the
Desmond Tutu. Diocese of Lexington to support Camp Haven, a summer
In Made for Goodness, camp for children of the incarcerated.
Archbishop Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize Fourteen grants totaled $50,000 or more, with the
winner and international icon of largest at $90,000 to the Diocese of the Dominican Republic
peace and reconciliation, shares his for school construction to include an addition of seven
vision on why we can find hope and classrooms.
joy in the world’s darkest moments The Rev. Mpho A. Tutu Two companion diocese relationships – the Dioceses
by realizing that we were made for of Maine and Upper South Carolina – were awarded funds
goodness, that we are wired so that goodness will win in to assist their companion Diocese of Haiti following the
the end. Archbishop Tutu is a spiritual leader and symbol of devastating earthquake in January. The Diocese of South
love and forgiveness on the level of Gandi, Mother Teresa, Dakota received a grant for its companion Diocese of Bor
Martin Luther King, Jr., and Nelson Mandela, and Made for in South Sudan, Africa, of $13,000 for access to sustainable
Goodness, written with his daughter Mpho, is one of the most drinking water.
personal and inspirational books he’s ever written. Among the international grants were $46,000 to the
Mpho Tutu, an Episcopal priest, received a master of Church of Pakistan towards the costs of a medical facility,
divinity degree from Episcopal Divinity School (EDS) in and $32,000 to the Anglican Province of Jerusalem and the
2003. She is the founder and executive director of the Tutu Middle East for the modernization of an eye clinic in Yemen.
Institute for Prayer & Pilgrimage. The complete list of grants is located here: http://www.
Made for Goodness may be purchased in advance episcopalchurch.org/110043_123861_ENG_HTM.htm.
through the EDS website’s Virtual Bookstore, www.eds.edu/ For more information on UTO: www.episcopalchurch.
sec.asp?cat=192&page=182. org/uto.

Texas Episcopalian • October 2010 18


Church Leaders Encourage
Anglican Covenant Study
Episcopal Church Presiding
Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori,
House of Deputies President
Bonnie Anderson and
Executive Council member
Rosalie Simmonds
Ballentine have issued a letter
to the church calling for study
on the Anglican Covenant.
Their letter follows a request from Bishop
Andy Doyle for congregations to study
the Covenant and help inform Diocese of Texas deputies
and bishops who will attend the 2010 General Convention
where the Anglican Covenant will be considered.
A final draft of the proposed Anglican Covenant was
released in mid-December, 2009, for consideration by
constituent provinces of the Anglican Communion. The 76th
Fall Visitors Weekend set
for November 12-13 at
Seminary of the Southwest
Explore Seminary of the Southwest during Visitors
Weekend, a two day “re-treat” offered each spring and
fall. The time, from Friday afternoon through Sunday
morning, is structured to give prospective students
a feel for seminary life - worship, study, community -
and to provide time to ask questions of faculty, staff,
and especially current students, those who have already
walked the ground many are considering. Those
attending Visitors Weekend are both local to Austin
and from across the United States. For out of town
attendees complimentary airport shuttle and guest suites
are available.
The next Visitors Weekend date is November 12 ~
13. Attendee spots are limited therefore early registration
is encouraged. For registration and event information,
please contact Beth Robertson at 512.439.0357 or
brobertson@ssw.edu or check the seminary website at
www.ssw.edu.
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
General Convention, held in July, 2009, further committed
the Episcopal Church’s engagement with the covenant
process (Resolution 2009-D020).
Bishop Andy Doyle named a task force to write a
curriculum to study the Anglican Covenant following the
2010 Diocesan Council last February. It will be finished after
the first of the year and available by Lent 2011.
As the highest legislative authority of The Episcopal
Church, the General Convention is the body that will
ultimately decide The Episcopal Church’s position with
respect to participation in an Anglican Communion
Covenant.
“In order for General Convention to reflect the mind of
the whole Church, the bishops and deputies who participate
in General Convention need to know the thoughtful and
faithful reactions of the many and varied faith communities
represented in this Church,” said the presiding bishop’s letter.
Application Process Open
For Scholarships from The
Episcopal Church
Deadline is October 15
Applications are now being accepted for more than
60 scholarships from The Episcopal Church. Specific
scholarships are available for ethnic communities
along with other particular wide-ranging eligibility for
education and training.
“Besides ethnic ministries, there are scholarships
available to children of missionaries, foreign students
studying for ministry in the Church, foreign students
training in the fields of medical, sanitation, nursing or
hospital work in their own country and for the children
of bishops and clergy of The Episcopal Church,”
explained Antoinette (Toni) Daniels, co-director of
Mission and Chair of the Scholarship Committee at
the Church Center in New York.
The list of trust funds and scholarships is
here: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/
ScholarshipTrustFunds121609.pdf
All materials including the application form and
the instructions for filing are available online here:
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/109539_110675_
ENG_HTM.htm.
19
The curriculum being developed in the Diocese of Texas
will be available in time to be used as a Lenten study, leaving
time for church members to make comments to the General
Convention office by their deadline of April 24, 2011.
(Comments on the Anglican Covenant may be submitted up
to April 24, 2011 at gcoffice@episcopalchurch.org.
General Convention deputies will be elected at the
2011 Diocesan Council, February 11-12 in The Woodlands.
Following that election and the availability of the Covenant
Curriculum, there will be a place on the diocesan website
where comments may be left for the bishops and deputies so
that they may know the mind of the diocese before attending
the 2012 General Convention.
The final Proposed Covenant and a study guide prepared
by the General Convention office can be downloaded here:
http://generalconvention.org/ec.
Bishops Address Immigration
Reform at Retreat
A
t the most recent House of Bishops meeting
in Phoenix, September 18-22, bishops of The
Episcopal Church issued a pastoral letter on
immigration reform rejecting the criminalization
of undocumented persons. Bishops called on the
government to create “fair and humane” policies and
work towards a “reasonable path to citizenship for
undocumented workers; a plan to reunite families”
and a way to allow temporary guest-workers. In the
same letter, they acknowledged the need for secure
borders and denounced racial profiling, noting that
undocumented workers have paid more than $500
billion into the social security, from which they will not
benefit. They concluded their letter with a theological
resource entitled: The Nation and the Common Good:
Reflections on Immigration Reform.
The bishops also passed a resolution in support of
a $10 million appeal for the initial “rebuilding of the
diocese of Haiti” calling on their dioceses to participate
in the appeal in consultation with the Diocese of Haiti.
Before adjourning, bishops also called for Charles
Bennison, the bishop of Pennsylvania, to resign
following a lengthy judicial process in which he was
found guilty of conduct unbecoming a member of the
clergy. An earlier court of review was forced to vacate
the verdict because the statute of limitations had
expired, but the House of Bishops said they found the
“ultimate resolution of this matter unsatisfactory and
morally repugnant,” and exhorted Bennison to resign
unconditionally and immediately. www.episcopalchurch.
org/79425_124668_ENG_HTM.htm
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010

African Bishops Look to the Future, Commit
to Leading the Church in the 21st Century
A
s the All Africa Bishops’ Conference in Entebbe,
Uganda, drew to a close Aug. 29, participants
said they’d been encouraged by the bishops’
determination “not to be distracted from the urgent business
of leading the church in the 21st century,” the Rev. Canon
Petero Sabune, Africa partnerships officer for the Episcopal
Church, told Episcopal News Service.
More than 400 Anglican bishops from Africa were joined
by international partners, diplomats and representatives
from relief and development organizations for the weeklong
gathering, which focused on issues of conflict, poverty,
corruption and disease.
The gathering brought together bishops from the 12
Anglican provinces in Africa -- Burundi, Central Africa,
Congo, Indian Ocean, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Southern
Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and West Africa -- as well
as the Diocese of Egypt.
For Sabune, the highlights were the “casual conversations
carried over several days [with people] whose connection to
each other was that they belong to the body of Christ called
the Anglican Communion.”
Sabune said he spent hours in dialogue “with Sudanese
about peace, Rwandans about genocide, Nigerians on Islam,
Congolese on sexual violence and Burundians on poverty ...
I felt a sense of hope and determination -- African leaders
tackling African challenges on African soil.”
“Absent was mention of the commitment by one bishop
to plant a million trees on his land before he dies in an effort
to reverse deforestation and tackle climate change. Stories
of hugely successful DIY community dam projects and of
biogas schemes that provide villages with desperately needed
water and fuel went largely unreported,” said Jan Butter,
communication director of the Anglican Communion
Office.
In a final report, the bishops wrote that they “must be
actively involved in working with partners at all levels to
ensure equal access to medical care, food security and the
promoting of good health practices to prevent the major
causes of death on the continent, with particular attention to
primary health care for African families, especially mothers,
children and the elderly.”
The bishops also had a message for other Anglican
provinces. “While we will always be prepared to listen
to voices from other parts of the global communion, it is
pertinent that the rest of the world listens to the unique voice
of the church in Africa,” the bishops wrote. “The Anglican
Church in Africa has continued to witness growth so that
the center of gravity of Christianity today appears to be
shifting to the continent. Nonetheless, the church’s relevance
and impact on global mission and to social, economic
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
and political transformation of the continent remains a
challenge.”
While the bishops’ communiqué largely focused on
political and socio-economic challenges, another report from
some of the African primates, released Aug. 29, said they
were “very saddened” by the recent consecration of Mary
Douglas Glasspool, the Episcopal Church’s second openly
gay, partnered bishop.
Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, after
returning from a three-day visit to Uganda, said Aug. 26 that
the bishops’ conference comes at a “significant moment ...
with Anglican churches in Africa putting development issues
at the top of their agenda.”
Williams said that the bishops’ desire to make
development issues a priority “has been welcomed by other
churches and politicians in the region and internationally, as
they recognize that the African church has the willingness and
the skills to make them best placed to set their development
agenda. Their challenge will be in finding the imaginative
opportunities for unlocking this potential.”
In his sermon at the opening service Aug. 24, Williams
told the bishops: “It has been said that this is going to be the
African century of the Christian church in terms of energy
and growth and vision … And if the churches of Africa are
indeed going to be for this time a city set on a hill, how very
important it will be for the health and growth of all God’s
churches throughout the world that this witness continues at
its best and highest.”
During his visit, Williams also met with Uganda
President Yoweri Museveni and visited children at the
Mildmay HIV Centre outside Kampala.
Museveni addressed the conference on Aug. 25,
bringing a message that tolerance is a biblical imperative and
that Christians should not “have one minute of time wasted”
by those promoting prejudice.
Episcopal Relief & Development was represented by six
staff members, who attended the gathering as observers and
to connect with partners in Anglican dioceses and provinces
throughout Africa. Trinity Church, Wall Street, which
through its grants program supports projects throughout
Africa, also was represented at the gathering.
On Aug. 27, the Church of Uganda circulated a letter
from Indian Ocean Archbishop Ian Ernest to Uganda
Archbishop Henry Orombi that apologized for any
embarrassment caused by the Council of Anglican Provinces
of Africa (CAPA) accepting a $25,000 grant from Trinity
Church towards the bishops’ conference.
“We recognize the great contribution you have made
to the conference and regret that this grant created a taint in
our otherwise healthy working relationship,” Ernest, CAPA
20
chairman, wrote to Orombi. In April, Ernest suspended
all communication “both verbal and sacramental” with the
Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada “until
such time as they reverse their theological innovations.”
Earlier in the conference, Ernest underscored that the
time had passed when Christian mission went from east to
west, but that the church was now in a time when mission
could go from anywhere to anywhere. Similarly, Orombi said
that now was the time for African Anglicanism to “rise up,”
and for representatives of the continent to be able to go to
other places in the communion with “fresh wine from new
wine skins.”
Also participating in the conference were members
of the Anglican Church in North America, a coalition
of breakaway groups, and its leader, deposed Diocese of
Pittsburgh bishop Bob Duncan.
Throughout the week, presentations focused on
nurturing family life, building healthy populations, securing
an economic future, disempowering the powerful and
empowering the vulnerable, and making leadership work to
secure the future and unlock potential on the continent.
Sabune said he valued the everyday encounters with Dr.
Nyambura Njoroge, who coordinates the ecumenical HIV/
AIDS Initiative in Africa on behalf of the World Council of
Churches. She “is determined to teach the church to talk
about domestic violence and HIV/AIDS [and] is convinced
that the more we talk about it openly the better it will be for
our churches to be sanctuaries of healing and hope,” Sabune
said.
A session on leadership, moderated by Anglican
Observer at the United Nations Hellen Wangusa, “brought
us to our spiritual knees,” Sabune said. “How can we lead
society to fight corruption, when corruption is endemic
within the churches? Why do we tolerate corrupt leaders in
church and society and what is the connection between the
two?”
Many of the questions raised during the sessions on
issues such as conflict, hunger, poverty, climate change,
disease and corruption, Sabune said, are to be addressed at
provincial gatherings during the coming months and years.
The Entebbe conference is the second time that CAPA
has hosted an All Africa Bishops Conference, the first being
held in 2004 in Lagos, Nigeria.
A communiqué issued at the conclusion of the All Africa
Bishops’ Conference is available at www.episcopalchurch.
org/documents/082910_CAPA_communique.pdf.
Davies is editor and international correspondent of the Episcopal
News Service.

NetsforLife® Inspiration Fund
Supports Commitment to MDGs
P
resident Obama spoke late Wednesday afternoon
during one of the final sessions of the three-day United
Nations Summit on the Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs).
In his speech, the president introduced the new
US Global Development Policy, which reaffirms the
administration’s commitment to the MDGs and outlines
an updated approach to supporting development efforts
worldwide.
“The purpose of development, and what’s needed most
right now,” the president said, “is creating the conditions
where assistance is no longer needed. So we will seek
partners who want to build their own capacity to provide for
their people. We will seek development that is sustainable.”
Episcopal Relief & Development applauds this shift in
US aid policy – working through local partners on context-
driven solutions that support progress toward achieving the
MDGs has been integral to the organization’s approach for
many years.
The MDGs were adopted in 2000, with the intention
that the markers be achieved by 2015. Episcopal Relief &
Development uses these goals as a framework to guide its
efforts and help measure the impact of its programs. Each of
its four focus areas (health, hunger, economic opportunities
and disaster response) and all of its international programs
work to achieve one or more of the MDGs.
The Episcopal Church initially dedicated itself to
supporting the MDGs at the 2003 General Convention,
and put its commitment into action in 2006 by endorsing
the MDG Inspiration Fund, which raised over $3.2 million
in three years. In 2009, the Church renewed its support of
the MDGs by pledging 0.7% of its annual budget to the
new NetsforLife® Inspiration Fund, inspiring Episcopalians
to donate and help fight the spread of malaria in sub-
Saharan Africa. The NetsforLife® Inspiration Fund is now
the official channel for the Church’s support of the MDGs
in the 2010-12 triennium.
“The NetsforLife® Inspiration Fund provides an
opportunity for all Episcopalians to live out their faith and
affirm their commitment to MDGs,” said Joy Shigaki, the
fund’s Director. “It’s an honor to be leading this effort in
partnership with the wider church.”
The Inspiration Fund supports the NetsforLife®
program partnership, which, since 2008, has delivered
more than 2 million nets across 17 countries in sub-
Saharan Africa. NetsforLife® combats malaria by training
community “malaria agents” to deliver life-saving nets,
educating community members about proper net use
and maintenance, and providing ongoing monitoring
and evaluation of net use. These activities are carried out
in partnership with churches and faith-based groups in
remote areas across the continent, and result in less sickness,
fewer deaths and stronger communities. The NetsforLife®
program partnership is making a difference in addressing
all of the MDGs, but particularly goals 4 (reducing child
mortality), 5 (improving maternal health) and 6 (preventing
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
and treating disease).
“The beauty of focusing on malaria prevention is that it
enables progress on all of the MDGs,” said Episcopal Relief
& Development President Rob Radtke. “Progress cannot
be made on reducing extreme poverty, educating children,
empowering women or many other priorities if people are
sick. The Episcopal Church has been a prophetic voice on
the MDGs, and as we enter the final five years before 2015
it is important that we not lose momentum.”
Episcopal Relief & Development’s Inspiration Fund
enables Episcopalians to live their faith by making a positive
difference in the lives of millions around the globe through
local, grassroots engagement in communities across the
country. Through the Inspiration Fund, parishioners,
clergy, students and seminarians can continue to work to
address the Millennium Development Goals through the
work of Episcopal Relief & Development.
For more information on how Episcopal Relief &
Development is helping The Episcopal Church live its
commitment to its neighbors worldwide, visit www.er-d.org. To support Episcopal Relief & Development’s
There, you can learn about the Millennium Development
work, please visit www.er-d.org or call
Goals and how they guide Church-supported development
work, and contribute to life-saving programs through the
800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed
NetsforLife® Inspiration Fund. to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO
Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
Episcopal Church Joins 10.10.10 Movement
The Global Work Party to Cut Carbon Emissions
Share your activities and ideas at www.350.org
Mark October 10, 2010 - 10.10.10 - on your calendar as a day to build community, have fun and cut carbon emissions.
M
ichael Schut, Episcopal Church Officer insulation in your parish and your home;
for Environmental/Economic Affairs, says • Plant trees;
that individuals, families, neighborhoods, • Harvest community gardens to demonstrate local
congregations, schools, dioceses - communities of all food solutions;
kinds and sizes – can make a positive impact on the future
by participating in the international Global Work Party • Organize a carpool/bike to church Sunday;
• Host a bike-repair workshop or install bike racks
movement on 10.10.10.
outside your church;
“This will be a great party around the world,” he said.
“We can all do our part. By working together, we can send • Paint your roof white to cool off without air-
a message to world leaders that they need to get to work as conditioning;
well.” • Organize a discussion on the environment with your
So far the Global Work Party, sponsored by 350.org congregation, youth group, and others;
(www.350.org), lists 1214 actions planned in 117 countries. • Ring bells 350 times.
To join an already scheduled work party, or to register one,
Resources and ideas for observing 10.10.10 are here:
visit www.350.org.
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/109350_123831_ENG_
Schut explained the significance of “350” as “350 parts
HTM.htm and http://www.350.org/
per million (ppm) is what scientists say is the safe upper limit
For more information, contact Schut at mschut@
of carbon in the atmosphere. The current level is 390 ppm.
episcopalchurch.org or visit Episcopal Church
To return to 350 ppm, we need to cut our carbon emissions.”
Environmental Ministries: http://www.episcopalchurch.
Schut offers some activities to consider for 10.10.10
org/environment
• Install weather-stripping, efficient lighting and more
21 Texas Episcopalian • October 2010

Muslims, Christians hurt by frenzy
over threat to burn Quran
By Anto Akkara
P
lans by a Florida-based Christian pastor to burn
copies of the Quran on Sept. 11 -- the anniversary
of the World Trade Center terrorist attacks -- and a
recent surge in violence against Muslims is being met with
widespread condemnation by church groups and leaders
who are calling for religious tolerance and an end to anti-
Islamic attitudes.
A Florida pastor threatened to burn the Quran despite
warnings from high-ranking church and governmental
leaders that his actions could have grave consequences for
national security and Christians throughout the world.
A group of U.S. interfaith leaders -- including the
Rev. Michael Kinnamon, general secretary of the National
Council of Churches, and Episcopal Diocese of New York
Bishop Mark Sisk -- held a summit and press conference
Sept. 7 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.,
to condemn the plans and to decry incidents of violence
committed against innocent Muslims.
According to the Church of North India’s Rt. Rev.
Pradeep Kumar Samantaroy, a school, managed by the
Diocese of Amritsar, that provided “quality education to
five hundred fifty children from one hundred fifty villages
around Tangmarg,” was burned to the ground by an angry
mob protesting the Quran burning. “Classrooms, computer
labs and a library containing, among other books, copies of
the Quran was completely destroyed on Monday after being
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
set on fire by a large mob that marched on the school after
hearing reports of a man desecrating the Quran in America,”
said a press release from the Anglican Communion. Staff and
students managed to escape the blaze.
An NCC press release said the leaders acknowledged the
“anti-Muslim frenzy” that has existed in the U.S. since plans
were announced to build an Islamic community center near
Ground Zero -- where the twin towers of the World Trade
Center stood before they were attacked and destroyed by
Muslim extremists on Sept. 11, 2001. The center, now known
as Park 51, has drawn both criticism and support.
Ingrid Mattson, president of the Islamic Society of North
America, which organized the event, said during the press
conference that Muslims in America report the highest degree
of anxiety they have felt since the events of 9/11.
“For nine years, we have been trying to get the message
out that we reject the extremist views” of a few Muslims, “their
justification for violence, their justification for militancy,” she
said, according to the release. “It has been difficult to get this
message out because the actions of the extremists are more
dramatic. The majority of Muslims we know as law-abiding,
ethical, good people.”
Participants in the summit talked about next steps, such
as “calling on our networks, our constituencies, to replicate
this kind of meeting in local communities,” Kinnamon said.
“We’ve also called upon state councils to say no to this kind of
bigotry. It is important for us as a Christian community to say
an unequivocal no.”
22
Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori
Speaks at International
Leadership Events
E
piscopal Church Presiding Bishop Katharine
Jefferts Schori has accepted invitations to speak on
topics of faith in three key conferences attracting
international audiences in October: Fortune Magazine’s
Most Powerful Women Annual Summit; an interreligious
panel with the Dalai Lama at Emory University; and
Maria Shriver’s Annual The Women’s Conference.
On October 5, the Presiding Bishop will participate
in a panel on Pursuing a Purpose, about faith and
leadership in the face of disaster, at the Fortune Most
Powerful Women Annual Summit in Washington,
DC. The conference theme is Building a Legacy, and
participants will share aspects of leadership, building
businesses and organizations, succession, mentoring, and
making a difference in the world. Other panelists are Ellen
Gustafson, co-founder of FEED and Linda Rottenberg,
co-founder and CEO of Endeavor.
On October 17 and 18, Presiding Bishop Jefferts
Schori will join other world religious leaders in the
Interfaith Summit on Happiness: Understanding and
Promoting Happiness in Today’s Society, at the Center
for the Study of Law and Religion (CSLR) at Emory
University in Atlanta. The two-day forum opens with an
address by the Dalai Lama, followed by a discussion on
the topic with the Presiding Bishop, Chief Rabbi Lord
Jonathan Sacks of the United Hebrew Congregations of
the Commonwealth; and George Washington University
Professor Seyyed Hossein Nasr, a world-renowned scholar
on Islam.
On October 18 at Emory, she will present and
discuss “The Pursuit of Happiness in the Christian
Tradition: Goal and Journey.” Other presenters will be
Rabbi Sacks, Nasr and the Venerable Matthieu Ricard, a
world-renowned Buddhist teacher and author.
On October 26, Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori
will be featured at California First Lady Maria Shriver’s
The Women’s Conference. Following this year’s theme,
It’s Time, the Presiding Bishop will address It’s Time to
Talk To Women Who Know First Hand What It Takes
to Lead. Moderated by CNN anchor Campbell Brown,
Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori will join Carol Bartz,
CEO of Yahoo! and Anne Sweeney, co-chair of Disney
Media Networks and President of Disney/ABC Television
Group.

Toleration
The Rev. Sam Todd
F
orty years ago, I interviewed for the position of
Anglican chaplain on the Aramco compound in
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. A peculiar feature of the
job was that the chapel was not a separate building with a
cross on it but a room added on to the chaplain’s house. It
was illegal to have a church anywhere in Saudi Arabia.
I did not get the job but I got interested in Arabia.
When the Arabs broke out of their homeland and
established their empire in the Middle East and North Africa
in the mid-seventh century, they tolerated the Christians and
Jews already there. “Only in one region were non-Muslims
forbidden to live …The Caliph ‘Umar decreed that in the
Holy land – which for Muslims meant Arabia, the homeland
of the Prophet – only one religion, Islam, should be
permitted, and Christians and Jews were therefore required
to leave” (B. Lewis, The Middle East – A Brief History of
the Last 2,000 Years, p. 218). The presence of British and
American Anglicans in Dhahran in 1970 obviously indicated
that the rules had been modified. What has not changed is
that apostasy, e.g. converting from Islam to Christianity, is
still a capital crime.
The Arabs enslaved Turks on the eastern borders of
their empire; then they trained them to be Mamluk soldiers
in their army (c. 835); then they converted them to Islam
(c. 960); then they were conquered and ruled by Turks for
almost a thousand years. During the whole period of the
Ottoman Empire “only one Arabian movement challenged
GUEST COLUMNIST
the legitimacy of the Ottoman state.... From about the
middle of the eighteenth century, new warriors of the faith,
led by the military skill of Ibn Sa’ud and inspired by the
religious teachings of Ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhab, conquered much
of Arabia” (Ibid, p.333). In 1926 ‘Abd al-‘Aziz ibn Saud was
declared king of the Hijaz and Sultan of Najd, “retaining this
title until September 1932 when the kingdom was renamed
Saudi Arabia” (p. 344).
In 1990, soon after occupying Kuwait, Saddam Hussein
began verbally attacking the Saudi state arguing that the
U.S. supported kingdom was an illegitimate and unworthy
guardian of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. King Faud
called for our military assistance; on August 7th, President
Bush launched Operation Desert Shield to protect Saudi
Arabia. It became Operation Desert Storm, aka the Gulf
War, the following January. Many of our military guardians
then and later were women. Some of them resented
restrictions they were put under. “Military commanders
in Saudi Arabia require women to wear an abaya and a
headscarf when they leave their installations. Maj. Martha
McSally, the senior female fighter pilot in the Air Force …
called the dress code ‘ridiculous and unnecessary’” (USA
TODAY 4/24/2001).
But, hey, it’s a free country.
Once publicized, the restrictions prompted a fierce
debate in this country, the poles of which were: (1) When
in Rome do as the Romans. We are guests in their country
and should conform to their customs. (2) It is an outrage. “I
am a Gulf War vet and had to wear an abaya while in Saudi.
… I am not a Muslim and should not have been subject to
their customs. When they come to America, we do not make
them stop wearing their ethnic or religious outfits” (www.
militarywoman.org/abaya.htm).
Some Saudis were outraged by the continued
presence of infidels (us) in their country. One of them was
Osama bin Laden. After the destruction of the World Trade
Center and part of the Pentagon on 9/11/2001, we wanted
to punish the culprits. But they were already dead. It had
been a suicide mission. We wound up invading Afghanistan
because bin Laden was hiding there or thereabouts. He still
is. None of the 9/11 attackers were Afghans; they were all
Arabs. Then we invaded Iraq which had had nothing to do
23
with the attack or with bin Laden. Most of the attackers
were from Saudi Arabia.
“Toleration” means “Forbearance. Allowance, by
a government, of the exercise of religions other than the
religion officially established or recognized” (The Random
House Dictionary of the English Language, p. 1491). The United
States has been tolerant since the adoption of the Bill of
Rights on December 15, 1791, which prohibited any “law
respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the
free exercise thereof ” (1st Amendment). There are many
mosques, Hindu temples, churches and synagogues in the
United States. There has recently been a flap in New York
over plans to build a Muslim community center two blocks
from the site of the former World Trade Center. But, hey,
it’s a free country. Besides, Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf has
explained that Cordoba House “is intended to cultivate
understanding among all religions and cultures….At Cordoba
House we envision shared space for community activities….
There will be prayer spaces for Muslims, Christians, Jews and
men and women of other faiths….President Obama and
Mayor Michael Bloomberg both spoke out in support of our
project. As I traveled overseas, I saw firsthand how their
words and actions made a tremendous impact on the Muslim
street and on Muslim leaders. It was striking: a Christian
president and a Jewish mayor of New York supporting the
rights of Muslims” (New York Times, 9/8/10, p. A 25).
I think that is great. Here is what would have a
even greater impact on the Muslim street and on Muslim
leaders: if His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al
Saud would build an identical center, with prayer places for
Muslims, Christians, Jews and men and women of other
faiths, two blocks from the Ka’aba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
Much Saudi money has gone into funding schools (madrasas)
disseminating Wahhabism, the most conservative school of
Islamic thought, throughout Pakistan, Afghanistan and other
poor Muslim countries. If instead of the billions of dollars
we have invested in Iraq and Afghanistan, we had spent it on
building schools promoting a more tolerant brand of Islam,
I wonder what the return would have been.
Email Todd at: stodd2423@att.net
Texas Episcopalian • October 2010
Bishops’ October Calendars
1-2 Center for Houston’s Future, Fall Forum, Sugar Land
3 11 a.m. Resurrection, Austin, CF
6 p.m. St. Mary Magdalene, Manor, CF
Doyle

6 6:30 p.m. Janet Gilmore Celebration of New Ministry, St. Mark’s, Rosenberg
8-9 Bishops’ Conference on Outreach, Camp Allen
10 10:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s, Houston, CF
7 p.m. Redeemer, Houston, CF
13 6 p.m. St. Francis’, Tyler, CF
14 10 a.m. Bishop Quin Foundation Meeting, Diocesan Center
6 p.m. ECW Board Dinner, Beaumont
15 11 a.m. Southeast Convocational Clericus, Beaumont
2 p.m. ECW Annual Retreat Opening Service, St. Mark’s, Beaumont
16 9:30 a.m. ECW Annual Retreat, St. Mark’s, Beaumont
17 10:15 a.m. All Saints’, Stafford, CF
4 p.m. Camp Allen Board Meeting
18 7 p.m. Justice and Peace Council, Christ Church Cathedral, Houston
19 3 p.m. 50th Annual St. James’ House Silver Tea, Houston
21 11:30 a.m. East Harris Convocation Clericus, St. Mark’s, Houston EDOT Gallery, Artist’s reception, October 8, 2010
2:30 p.m. St. Luke’s Episcopal Health Charities Leadership Meeting, Houston
7 p.m. Starry Nights & Campfire Lights, Houston
22 11 a.m. Consecration of IX Bishop of Rio Grande, Albuquerque In the Anglican Communion
24 8 a.m. St. Aidan’s, Cypress
A global community of 77 million Anglicans in
10:30 a.m. St. Aidan’s, Cypress, CF
3 p.m. Clergy Conference, Camp Allen 500 dioceses in 164 countries
25-27 Clergy Conference, Camp Allen
28 6:30 p.m. SLEHC Bishop’s Leadership Award Dinner, Houston Archbishop of Canterbury
31 10:30 a.m. Christ Church, Cedar Park, CF The Most Rev. Rowan Williams
Lambeth Palace, London, England, SE1 7JU
Anglican Communion Office
3 10 a.m. Trinity, Baytown, CF
16 Tavistock Crescent
4 p.m. Trinity, Anahuac, CF
6 11:30 a.m. San Jacinto Convocation Clericus Meeting, Trinity, The Woodlands Westbourne Park
London W 11 1AP
High

8 10 a.m. Restorative Justice Ministry Council Mtg, St. Francis of Assisi, Prairie View
8-9 Bishops’ Conference on Outreach, Camp Allen United Kingdom
10-13 Regents’ Meeting, Sewanee www.lambethpalace.org
14 6 p.m. ECW Annual Board Meeting and Banquet, Beaumont www.anglicancommunion.org
15-16 ECW Annual Meeting and Retreat, St. Mark’s, Beaumont
17 10 a.m. Trinity, Jasper, CF
4 p.m. St. Paul’s, Woodville, CF In the United States
19 2 p.m. St. James’ House Silver Tea, Houston
A community of 2.5 million members in 120
20 12 p.m. Celebration of St. Luke’s Day, St. Luke’s Hospital, Houston
21 2 p.m. St. James’ House Board Meeting, Diocesan Center, Houston dioceses in the Americas and abroad
7 p.m. Camp Allen Starry Nights, Houston
22-23 Ordination and Consecration of New Bishop, Diocese of Rio Grande, Presiding Bishop
Albuquerque, New Mexico The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
24 11 a.m. Christ Church, San Augustine Episcopal Church Center
24-27 Clergy Conference, Camp Allen 815 Second Ave., NY, NY 10017
27 6 p.m. Trinity, Jacksonville, CF
1.800.321.2231
31 11 a.m. San Mateo, Bellaire, CF
www.episcopalchurch.org

3 10 a.m. St. Albans’, Waco, CF In the Diocese of Texas

6 p.m. San Francisco de Asis, Austin, CF
Harrison

One Church of more than 85,000 members in

7 SSW Board Meeting, Austin
8-9 Bishops’ Conference Outreach, Camp Allen 153 congregations in the eastern quadrant
10 10:30 a.m. St. Paul’s Navasota, CF of Texas, established in 1849
4:30 p.m. San Pablo/St. Paul’s, Houston, CF
13 7 p.m. St. John’s, Sealy, CF Bishop
14-15 ECW Annual Meeting, St. Mark’s, Beaumont The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle
17 12 p.m. Santa Maria Virgen, Houston, CF dotbp@epicenter.org
18-19 Episcopal Relief and Development Bd. Meeting, New Jersey
1225 Texas Ave.
21-22 Consecration of Bishop of the Rio Grande, Albuquerque
23 El Buen Samaritano Board Retreat Houston, TX 77002-3504
24 10:45 a.m. St. Mark’s, Bay City, CF 1.800.318.4452 1.713.520.6444
24-27 Clergy Conference, Camp Allen FAX 1.713.520.5723
27 12 p.m. World Mission Commission, Camp Allen Austin: 1.512.478.0580, 1.800.947.0580
28 St. Luke’s Health System Executive Committee, Houston Tyler: 1.903.579.6012
30 9:30 – 1:30 p.m. Altar Guild Conference, St. Richard’s, Round Rock www.epicenter.org
31 11 a.m. St. Mark’s, Austin, CF
editor: cbarnwell@epicenter.org

Texas Episcopalian • October 2010 24