photo by Char Horst

Stretching
Contributions and pledges to the New Hope Campaign for a New Sudan and the Needy in Pennsylvania have surpassed our $3.6 million goal by more than $100,000. The campaign has begun to look toward a $4.1 million stretch goal. The intent, at the beginning of the campaign, was that $2.7 million would be designated for projects in the Diocese of Kajo Kei in Southern Sudan and $900,000 for the needy northeastern Pennsylvania. See Charlie Barebo's column on page A5 of the June Diocesan Life for a report on projects that have begun in Kajo Keji. The Social Ministries Committee invites letters of intent for local proposals to be funded by the New Hope Campaign. More info here.

Social Ministries Committee Ready to Accept Letters of Intent for New Hope for Northest Needy
The Social Ministries Committee is now ready to receive and consider requests for disbursements from the New Hope Campaign.  The total amount we are able to grant for the 2008-09 year is $100,000.  Therefore, we are inviting Letters of Intent from parishes and Episcopal related organizations within the Episcopal Diocese of Bethlehem.  The Deadline for Letters of Intent is 31 July 2008. 

Please bear in mind as you formulate your request that the funds will be used to seed new social ministry initiatives only, and cannot be used for regular or existing operating budgets. Instructions on what must be included are found here.

Church School at Trinity, Easton Raises $1850 for New Hope
The Church School at Trinity Easton has a missionary offering every program year. They undertake a small fundraiser or two, but mainly they collect spare change from their alowances, their families and fellow parishioners at Trinity from mid-September through May.

The 2007-08 Church School Missionary Offering was designated for the New Hope Campaign. At both Sunday services, children from the church would take turns collecting small change in two specially made "school houses," made by Trinitarian Carmen LoBaido Wilson to underscore that one of the tasks of New Hope is to rebuild school buildings in Kajo-Keji. At each service, the children would present their gifts at the altar along with the regular offerings of money and food, bread and wine.

During the year in class, they learned about Loopo Primary School, our adopted school, and other activities to learn about the Diocese of Kajo-Keji.

When Bishop Paul came to visit on April 20th, he was presented a check for $664, which was collected up through Easter. But they weren't done. The Church School collected a total $1850 for New Hope through this year's Church School Missionary offering.

Are You a Missing Person?
By Bishop Paul Marshall
[This is Bishop Paul Marshall's June 2008 column for secular newspapers, usually 600 word of less and different from his column in Diocesan Life. The column is sent to newspapers throughout our 14 counties. It is published by The Morning Call, Allentown, on the first Saturday of every month. It usually appears also in eight or nine additional papers at some point during the month. The combined circulation of papers that publish the column regularly is more than 400,000. More than 130 columns have been published over the past 12 years. If your newspaper does not publish the column and you might consider speaking with the editor about that, please email Bill Lewellis.]

A woman I admire decided to relax late one night by taking a drive in the country. She was pulled over. Are you looking for drugs?” were the first words out of the officer’s mouth. Skipping the temptation of such a straight line, she said no. “Are you married?” No. “Well, we don’t see ladies out here much at night. Are you a missing person?”

Rather than be outraged by this violation of proper police procedure, my colleague has meditated on that question for some time. When she shared it with me I asked her if I might repeat is here because it is a question well worth asking. Read it all here.

God the Great Networker
[A column for the Morning Call by Canon Andrew Gerns]
To decide to be connected, is to decide to be responsible. To choose connection over isolation, is to decide to take a risk that what we give will be received. Above all, to join the network of human relationships is a profound sign of hope, especially when we live those connections out In Real Life.

And just as I fell into Facebook by accident and found a world of connection, our journey of faith and connection often begins in an unexpected place, in unexpected ways.

Is God the Great Networker? I don’t know. But I do know this, we were not made to be alone or isolated. We are made to be connected to the One who made us and to the ones God made. Read it all here.

Anne Kitch to Serve on Diocesan Staff
The Rev. Canon Anne E. Kitch, Canon for Christian Formation at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, since 1999, has accepted Bishop Paul Marshall's invitation to become Canon for Formation in the Christian Faith in the Diocese of Bethlehem. She will begin her ministry on diocesan staff on August 11. More info here.

Rodney Conn to Serve Appointed to Serve as Deacon to Bishop Croneberger
The Rev. Rodney Conn has accepted Bishop Paul Marshall's invitation to become Deacon for Bishop Jack and will assist Bishop Jack Croneberger in the same way the Deacon George assists Bishop Paul Marshall

DioBeth Youth Scholarship Fund
The diocesan youth ministry is thriving. Events are regularly at capacity. Many more parishes are participating than a few years ago, including smaller parishes in rural areas. However, there has been an increase in the number of people seeking scholarship help and/or not participating in diocesan events because they cannot afford the registration fee. Though parishes often try to help, when there are multiple teens interested in attending, funds quickly run short. In many parishes where there are not active youth groups, diocesan youth events provide the only connection for teens to other Christian youth. However, even with substantial subsidy from the diocesan youth budget, the average high school teenager, participating in all offered events (Bishop's Day with Youth, Christophany, Province Spring Event, Mission Trip, Happening) would pay over $400 a year in registration fees. If you are interested in making an investment in Diocesan Youth Ministry, read more here.

A word about newSpin
In addition to our Diocesan Life newspaper, we have gradually developed a variety of electronic venues through which to offer parishioners in the Diocese of Bethlehem news, information and commentary related to local congregations, our diocesan community, the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion. Among these are the newSpin newsletter, the newSpin blog, our diocesan website (including special websites for youth and children's ministries) and the interactive "Bethlehem of Pa" list.

Feedback I have received over the past two years indicates that newSpin, distributed online three to six times monthly, has been especially well received and read. During the next few months, a design-enhanced version of newSpin will become a primary medium of communication throughout our diocesan community. At this point, some 700 addresses are subscribed to the newSpin list. Many others receive it by way of the "Bethlehem of Pa" list or read it on the newSpin blog. As we receive the annually updated parish officials lists, we add all whose email addresses are indicated there to a list to receive newSpin. One need not be a parish official, however, to receive it. I'd be delighted to include anyone. Simply send names and email addresses to our info tech coordinator Kat Lehman. If anyone who receives newSpin chooses not to continue receiving it, there is a link at the bottom of each newsletter whereby they may unsubscribe.

If you have parish news that would be of interest to others around our diocesan community, please post the news on "Bethlehem of Pa," if you are joined to that list, or send the news to me so I can include it in newSpin.

Thanks.
Bill Lewellis

Lambeth Conference 2008, July 16 - August 3
Find the official website here, pdf files of Bible studies here, a text version here, other resources here and a calendar of events here.

Presiding Bishop Calls for Day of Prayer for Lambeth Conference
Bishop Paul asks parishes to give the gift of prayer on June 22 and beyond that our Presiding Bishop requests in her letter. "I am particularly struck by her observation that the Anglican Communion is 'one of the largest networks of human connection in the world.' For that reason alone it is valuable and worth our prayers. That it seeks to be a connection in Jesus Christ makes it invaluable and worth our constant supplication.
"I write this [June 4] from teaching at the Preaching Excellence Program, a week-long seminar for persons their seminaries consider to be outstanding preachers. I am enjoying the experience and am proud that one of our postulants was sent by his seminary to this event. What is most important about it for me, however, is to sit with the next generation of preachers, all of whom are competent and faith-filled. It is a moment of hope that I will not soon forget."

Prayer for Lambeth Conference using Anglican Rosary
Read about it on the blog of Trinity Easton.

ERD's New Website
Episcopal Relief and Development has launched a redesigned website, with a new logo. See the website here. Read the news release here. An expanded Congregational Tools section helps churches engage with ERD by providing resources, tools, and creative ideas and events.

Former RC Priests Received
On June 10 at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, the Rev. Bruce Baker and the Rev. Michael Metro, former Roman Catholic priests, were received as priests of the Episcopal Church. They bring to 13 the number of former RC priests serving in or associated with the Diocese of Bethlehem. At least seven others served in the 14-county northeastern Pennsylvania diocese at some point over the past three decades. See story and photo here.

Trinity Carbondale gears up for 175 years
Trinity Episcopal Church is gearing up for its 175th birthday celebration, starting this week with the restoration of three 19th century stained-glass windows. In September, when the windows are rededicated, it will be the highlight for a congregation that has been through fire and flood to reach a momentous anniversary. Read the Scranton Times-Tribune and WNEP-TV stories here

Bears for New Bethany
St. George’s Church, Hellertown has collected over one hundred bears and other stuffed critters for the children at New Bethany Ministries in Bethlehem. Story and photos here.

Congregational Development Grants
[From Canon Jane Teter] Please note that the deadline for these applications is earlier this year so that the Committee can include the specific grants in the budget presented to the Diocesan Convention in October. The advantage for you is that you will know the amount of your grant in October instead of January or February after the Diocesan Council meets.

The deadline for applications is JULY 1, 2008. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THAT DATE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. You can download and application here.

If you have questions, please contact me at 1-800-358-5655, ext 228 or at jteter@diobeth.org.

Nominations and Resolutions for Diocesan Convention
The deadline for nominations and resolutions for our Diocesan Convention at Christ Church Reading, October 10-11, is August 1. The following three items may be downloaded here: (1) A cover letter with information about both nominations and resolutions. (2) "Duties and Qualifications" of the elected offices and a list of positions to be filled by election. (3) A nominating petition.

Bishop's School Fall 2008
The Fall Semester of Bishop's School will be held at St. Peter's Church in Hazleton from 10 to 3:30 on September 20 & 27; October 4, 18& 25; November 1, 8, 15, 22; and December 6 (December 13 is reserved for a snow day).

The morning class will be "The Message of the Old Testament" led by The Rev. Daniel Gunn; the afternoon class will be "Church History" led by Mr. Brian Pavlac.

Because the focus of Bishop's School is to prepare vocational deacons and locally licensed priests, the curriculum is designed to meet the canonical requirements for those ministries. The classes rotate on a four year cycle so that someone may enter at the beginning of any semester and continue through the four year program.

People who are in the ordination process may only miss one session and still receive credit for the course.

Although the focus is on preparation for ordination, anyone is welcome to register and attend all or any of the courses. A $75 fee per course is payable with registration. To register or if you have questions, please email Canon Teter at jteter@diobeth.org or send a note to her at the address below. Please include your name, address, phone number and email address. We need to be able to reach you in case of inclement weather or other schedule changes. Checks should be written to: The Diocese of Bethlehem, marked for Bishop's School.

The following resources are required for the classes. The books may be ordered at Amazon.com - used and new.

For the course in Church History:
- A Cloud of Witnesses: Readings in the History of Western Christianity by Joel F. Harrington, 2nd edition 2000 ISBN-10:0395968836
- The Story of Christianity, Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation (Story of Christianity) by Justo L. Gonzalez ISBN-10:0060633158
- The Story of Christianity, Volume 2: Reformation to the Present Day by Justo L. Gonzalez ISBN-10:0060633166

For the course in Old Testament:
Required Texts:
- The New Oxford Annotated Bible (NRSV with Apocrypha)
- A Short Introduction to the Hebrew Bible, Fortress Press, 2007

Required Tools: (to be chosen in consultation with the instructor):
- http://bible.crosswalk.com/
- Logos, Bibleworks, or some similar exegetical software OR
- Strong's Comprehensive Concordance of the Bible and other exegetical/
research texts including commentaries

Recommended Texts:
- Introduction to the Hebrew Bible by John J. Collins, Fortress Press, 2004
- Introducing the Old Testament (latest edition) by John Drane
- The Bible Makes Sense by Walter Brueggemann, St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2003

Diocesan Vehicle For Sale
2006 Volvo XC90 Ocean Race Edition Sport Utility, V8, 6sp auto, ABS, color Ocean Blue Metallic, leather seats, Power Glass Moon roof, Dual Zone Electronic Climate Ctrl w/ rear seat air vents, 6 CD in dash changer, Rear seat entertainment, new Michelin tires. Under 52,000 miles. Great limited addition vehicle only $31,500. For more information call Call Andrew 610-780-1420 or Bruce 610-216-3998.

Cathedral Seeks Administrative Assistant to the Dean
The Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is searching for a qualified individual to manage daily operations of office. Duties include supporting clergy and church programs, supervising staff and volunteers and managing parish communications. Candidate must have strong sense of ministry, excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office and knowledge of web-based communications. Salary $30-35k, + benefits depending on qualifications. See full job description here. Email resume and cover letter to the dean.

EFM at the Cathedral
[From Cathy Bailey] One of the many programs offered throughout the Diocese is Education for Ministry (EfM). EfM is a four year theology course that includes study of the Old Testament, New Testament, Church History and Theological Choices. Every baptized person is called to ministry. This program, through study, discussion, guided reflection, prayer, worship and fellowship, helps Episcopalians and others to carry out that ministry. Participants register for one year at a time, meet weekly in groups of 6-12, and are led by a trained mentor. There will be a group meeting at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, on Wednesday mornings from 9:30-12:00 starting the first Wednesday in September. There is also interest in starting an evening group. If you would like more information please contact Cathy Bailey 610-261-1106 or Janet Kolepp 610-954-9582.

Upcoming Events
July 1: Congregational Development Grants. Application deadline due.
July 8-13: EYE 2008. More info here. Application deadline, March 8.
July 17-Aug. 3: Lambeth Conference, Canterbury. More info here.
July 31: Letters of Intent for New Hope Northeast Needy grants deadline.
August 1: Deadline for Nominations and Resolutions for Diocesan Convention.
Aug. 15: Ordination of priests, Cathedral, 7:00 p.m.
Sept. 5-6: ChurchPost Training, Cathedral, Bethlehem and St. Stephen's, Wilkes-Barre. More info to follow.
Sept. 11-13: Godly Play Workshop at Cathedral. More info below.
Sept. 20: Bishop's School begins. See above for details.
Sept. 21: New Hope Renewal Sunday. More details to follow.
Sept. 25: Clergy Insensitivity Training, a systems approach to conflict in the parish. St. Stephen's Pro-Cathedral. Registration info here.
Sept. 28-30: Clergy Retreat at Jesuit Spiritual Center, Wernersville
Oct. 10-11: Diocesan Convention, at Christ Church, Reading
Nov. 7-9: Peace Commission Peace-Maker Training at Kirkridge. More info below.
2009
March 28: Diocesan Training for Ministry Day, St. Stephen's, Wilkes-Barre.
April 25: Diocesan Stewardship Conference at the Cathedral. Led by Terry Parsons.
July 8-17: General Convention, Anaheim, CA. More info here.

Trinity Episcopal Church of West Pittston Giant Yard Sales
Ongoing throughout the summer
Every First Saturday May-September Trinity Episcopal Church of West Pittston holds a Giant Neighborhood Yard Sale with 25+ vendors from the Wilkes-Barre and Scranton area. First of the seaon is this Saturday. Stop by and shop. Lunch served all day, famous chili-dog recipe, boardwalk fries and home-made baked goods. Vendors may reserve space (only $10.00) for remaining May-October Yard Sales by telephoning the parish office at 570-654-3261. Trinity is located on the corner of Spring Street and Montgomery Avenue, West Pittston. 200-300 people visit every event!

Engaging God in Health Decisions
July 13-16
Holding them Together in the Family and the Parish
SHRINE MONT, ORKNEY SPRINGS VA
in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley www.shrinemont.com
The purpose of this conference is to provide training, resources and support to individuals, families and churches so that they are better equipped to engage God in health care choices and decisions.

This conference will be particularly beneficial to: clergy, pastoral care teams, health care workers, hospice workers, parish nurses, individuals and families struggling with health care questions and decisions. Scholarships are available for members of Diocese of Bethlehem parishes. Contact Diana Marshall at d.marsh@rcn.com. Residential (includes room, board, program fees) $430/person(Single occupancy unless requested otherwise). Deposit of $215 due prior to July 6th.

Godly Play Teacher Accreditation Training
September 11-13
Cathedral Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem. Kathleen Capcara and Dawn Stewart will be the trainers. The coordinator is Tracy Eisenreich, email or 610.217.9662. Brochure available here.

Creating a Culture of Peace
November 7-9
The Peace Commission of the Diocese of Bethlehem will host spiritually-grounded peacemaker training at Kirkridge Retreat Center, Bangor, PA, November 7-9 (Friday 9:00 a.m. to Sunday 2:00 p.m.) More info here.

Safeguarding God's Children
Frequently Asked Questions

Diocesan Policies

Supplemental Materials