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Let Us Make Three Dwellings.
My wife’s mother’s often starts camping trips and other activities with the exclamation: “Once we get organized.” I think we got her a sweatshirt with the quote on it.
Fr. Vern Suter sometime says goodbye with this phrase: “Do something, even if its wrong.” This is helpful when battling mild depression.
I can imagine Peter acting on both of these responses to being overwhelmed. He and the other two are on the mountaintop with Jesus when Moses and Elijah appear. Rather than ding Peter for not understanding, I rather like the idea that he was trying to get the conference organized and that he did not want to appear to be doing nothing. I am more like that than I want to admit.
For Peter, the experience of Jesus being changed in front of him was overwhelming. It filled him with fear. The average mortal in the biblical record gets uneasy when getting too close to things divine. Peter doesn’t know what to do, so he tries to organize and categorize the experience into something that he can understand and control.
Does this go on in our spiritual lives? We find ourselves on the edge of moving into new territory and rather than just waiting to see what develops, we label, organize, and consolidate. We “build three dwellings” just like Peter would have.
The invitation I hear in this reading is to wait, listen, and have no fear.
When the cloud lifts, when the voice has stopped, they are safe with Jesus. They are asked to stick with him and to follow him to some very unsafe places. They will not be alone.
In our worship this week, I hope to be open to God’s overwhelming presence. I hope to avoid over-thinking it or letting my “busyness” deflect it. I hope when the cloud lifts and the voice is past, we can more truly see Jesus.
Join us on the mountaintop and for what comes next.
Fr. Andrew
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Mark 9:2-9
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus.
As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
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Memorial Service for Michael Campbell
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There will be a memorial service for Michael Campbell on February 24th at 10 a.m., at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church on Hwy 74 in Palm Desert.
It will be followed by a reception.
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St. Paul in the Desert Presents:
Music of the Night, “A Broadway Extravaganza”
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On Sunday, February 19th at 4:00 p.m. – St. Paul in the Desert presents “Music of the Night, A broadway Extravaganza.” It stars “The Female Liberace,” Linda Gentille, performing music from Phantom of the Opera, Les Mis, and many other favorites. Donations graciously accepted.
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Grief Group: Experiencing Life After Loss
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The death of a loved one is difficult. It challenges our strength and faith in ways we can never anticipate. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. The goal of the St. Paul’s Grief Group is to create a safe space in which those of us who are grieving can find healing after loss. This is accomplished through mutual support, sharing, and understanding from other members of the group who are also walking the path of healing. You’ll gain valuable resources to help you navigate through the grieving process and begin experiencing life after loss.
Brother Michael-Gregory Norrie, a certified hospice care chaplain and bereavement facilitator, will lead this 8-week faith-based grief support group. The group will meet on Tuesdays from 7-8:30 p.m., beginning March 13th and will culminate in a special remembrance service. Pre-registration and a commitment to attend each of the sessions is required. If you are interested in participating in this parish offering, call the church office at 760-320-7488, ext. 0 to register.
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DINNER IS SERVED….ON FEBRUARY 25th!
Do You Have Your Ticket?
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One of St. Paul’s “not to be missed” events is the Episcopal Church Women’s annual Spaghetti Dinner, on Saturday, February 25th from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The proceeds benefit outreach projects and special needs of the church. Help is needed for this event. Speak to a ticket seller and/or volunteer by signing the sign-up sheet in the Parish Hall.
Tickets are on sale Sunday, following both church services. Don’t wait to buy your ticket as only a limited number are available. Adult tickets: $8.00, children: 3 to 12: $3.00, children under 3: free.
The menu is spaghetti with choice of meat or vegetarian sauce, tossed garden salad, and bread. A variety of beverages will be available.
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Any White Elephants in the Room?
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The White Elephant Sale at the ECW’s annual All Parish Spaghetti Dinner is always a can’t miss event. Donations are needed. Popular items include electronics, books, linens, dishes, lamps, vintage toys, gently used stuffed animals, candles, and decorative pieces. Donations, valued at $5.00 or more, are gratefully accepted and can be left at the church, marked for the sale.
Consider donating homemade baked goods. Contributions of bakery items (none that need refrigeration) should be brought to the church between noon and 4 p.m. the day of the sale. Non-sugar treats are also appreciated.
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Rebuild Our Church in Haiti
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The Episcopal Diocese of Haiti—the largest Diocese in the Episcopal Church is in ruins. While the people of Haiti struggle to rebuild their nation, Episcopalians are uniting to rebuild our Church in Haiti.
Click the image above to learn more.
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The Episcopal Church Women’s next meeting is calendared for Thursday, March 1st. A business meeting at 11 a.m., open to all, precedes the noon lunch, and newcomers to the parish will be especially welcome.
Hostesses for the March event will be Bonnie Stroock and Trish Grieco. Those attending are asked to bring a salad to serve 4-6, rolls or a dessert; beverages are provided. The program for the afternoon is to be announced. For additional information, contact Kathy Briski, 760.864.7145.
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A Newcomers Class is slated for Sunday, March 25th. The goal of this class is to give Newcomer’s a chance to become more informed about St. Paul in the Desert and to provide a clear path to joining and participating as members. Parish clergy will lead this session and will be available to answer questions. Invitations will be sent by the end of February. If you are a Newcomer and do not receive an invite by March 1st, please call the parish office at 760-320-7488 ext. 0.
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“Sundays at 9:15”
In The Library
Feb. 19
The Pastoral Epistles
This is study into the Epistles of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. These non-Pauline epistles offer a view into the structure of the Early Church communities and the duties of those in charge. Presented by Jerry Di Noto, Ph.D, with a video presentation by Prof. Bart Ehrman.
•with Jerry DiNoto
Feb. 26 & Mar. 4, 11, 18 & 25
Lenten Wilderness Journey Baptismal Understanding
As we journey through the Sundays of Lent, the Easter Vigil lessons will be discussed in light of our Baptismal promises of creed, fellowship, perseverance, proclamation, and service.
•Presenters will include David Abernethy-Deppe, Jerry DiNoto, Andrew Green, Victoria Hatch, Jerry Lynch and Rick Tinsley.
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“Thursdays At 7”
Feb. 16 & 23
21st Century Christian Response to the World
Senior Warden Craig Ewing will lead a three week discussion on how we look at the world as faithful Christians and rational 21st century thinkers. Join us as we explore common ground between faith and understanding.
•with Craig Ewing
Mar. 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
Lenten Taizé Prayer Service
•with Nathan Ensign.
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Roy’s Desert Resource Center & Desert SOS
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Hap Blaisdell, strongly encourages volunteers to use the sign-up sheets in the Parish Hall to help him manage the number of volunteers he would like to see each week for Desert SOS. Hap says a minimum of 6 volunteers at Roy’s each Monday night is ideal. If fewer than six volunteers sign up, the workload is overly burdensome. The sign-up sheets are in the binder on the entrance table to the Parish Hall. Contact Hap for more information at 760.323.5726.
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Cold Toes at Desert SOS – Roy’s Resource Center has made a plea for covered shoes, boots and tennis shoes for their clients. Many clients have no shoes. If you have unworn or nearly new shoes that could be donated bring them to the church office or place them next to the Desert SOS basket.
If you would prefer to make a financial donation for shoes, make your check payable to: St. Paul’s, and in the memo area, write: SOS SHOE Fund. Contact Hap for more information at 760.323.5726.
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 ONE Extra Item…Brings Smiles to the Homeless – Purchase one extra item during your weekly grocery shopping to donate to the Desert SOS Dessert Ministry of St. Pauls. Dessert is provided every Monday evening. A box of cookies, doughnuts, fruit, cheese or other special treat would be so appreciated by people who ask for so little. Contact Hap for more information at 760.323.5726.
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The Bishop’s Appeal
The Bishop’s Appeal supports the mission of the diocese through gifts that are used for support of our ongoing programs and ministries: congregational support and development, leadership development, pastoral care, ministry development, and Christian formation. 100% of your gift goes to supporting our ministries. To make a gift, to the secure website at http://www.edsd.org or mail to: Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, 2728 Sixth Ave., San Diego, CA 92103.
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The St. Paul Columbarium Niches are over 60% sold out. If you are interested in a specific niche, please do not wait to purchase it or reserve it. Deposits are required for all niche reservations. Please contact Jonathan Abernethy-Deppe, at 760.320.7488, ext. 224 for further information.
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A Holy Communion Service is scheduled for Wednesday, February 22nd at 11:00 a.m. at Premier Health Care. The Rev. Dick Merrill will preside and welcomes assistance.
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Make a Strike with Family and Children’s Ministry
The annual bowling party is scheduled for Saturday, March 3rd at 10:45 a.m. Join the Family and Children’s Ministry members at Palms Springs Bowling alley in Cathedral City on Ramon and Landau, 68051 Ramon Rd.
The Ministry is receiving the special price of $10, plus nominal cost for shoe rental. Call Bonnie Stroock to reserve your spot at 760.324.7949.
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Get Your Aprons on and Save the Date
 Sunday, March 4th, at 4:30 p.m. An All Parish Potluck, to honor and welcome back The Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen, is scheduled. More information to follow.
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Prayer Shawl Ministry
The Prayer Shawl Ministry will meet every Wednesday, in February from 10 to 1 p.m. in the Chapel of Hogarth Hall.
Our peace-filled stitching circles provide members with a major sense of fulfillment and spiritual sustenance in creating prayer shawls to comfort those in need or in celebration. For more details contact Valerie Ferguson at 760.799.5927, Barbara Hawkins Villani at 760.322.3987, or Audrey Spencermorris at 760.835.5506.
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Daughters of the King
The DOK Will decide which spiritual books they plan to read and discuss during Lent at their monthly meeting, Tuesday, February 28th at 1:00 p.m. in the condo at St. Paul’s.
The “new members” orientation will meet on Tuesday, March 6th. Call Bonnie at 760.324.7949 for more information. Have a blessed Lent.
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SAVE these Dates!
Sunday, March 4th will be a Parish Potluck to honor and welcome back The Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen.
On Sunday, March 25th, a Newcomer’s Class will be given. Make sure we have your current, local address to send your invitation.
More information on these dates to follow.
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Well in the Desert
. . .is looking for a couple of additional servers for the hot lunch they serve on Wednesdays at our church. They serve from 11 am – 1 pm. If you are interested please contact Jonathan Abernethy-Deppe at 760.320.7488 ext 224 or jonathan.abernethy-deppe@stpaulsps.org.
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St. Paul’s To Be Honored
Well in the Desert Luncheon, Magic and Music will be held, Sunday April 1, from noon – 2:30 p.m. at Spencer’s Restaurant. The Church of St. Paul’s is being honored with WID’s Visionary Award. Contact www.wellinthedesert.org or 760.323.8353.
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Camp Stevens
Annual Women’s Retreat
March 9-11
Join women from around southern California for a rejuvenating weekend in the mountains of San Diego, as we reflect on the seasons of our lives and the rhythms we experience. Led by the Rev. Kay Sylvester, the weekend features organic meals, spiritual reflection, hiking, music, and time to chat with new friends, or explore nearby quaint Julian. All activities, materials, meals and accommodations are included in the retreat fee of $140. Call 760.765.0028 for more information.
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Coffee Hour
 The Hosts for the 8:00 a.m. Coffee Hour are Eileen Upton and Don MacLean and the 10:30 a.m. Coffee Hour hosts are Jean McFadden, Cheryl and Ray Kelley.
To sign-up to host a Coffee Hour, please use the binder located on the entrance table in the Parish Hall. If you have any questions, please contact, Ray or Cheryl Kelley at 760.778.1725.
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Sign Up for Flowers,
Coffee Hour and
Desert SOS
To make is easier for parishioners to sign-up for Flowers, Coffee Hours, and the Desert SOS Dessert Ministry, the sign-up sheets are in binders that are on the entrance table in the Parish Hall. The 2012 binders are filling fast, so if you have a special date that you want to commemorate, be sure to sign up early.
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Bullies Not Welcome Here
At St. Paul in the Desert we want to welcome all worshipers to a place that is free of violence and bullying.
Physical, verbal or emotional violence against others or against oneself is not acceptable.
“It Gets Better” is a series of video messages to encourage Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or Transgender youth and let them know that they are loved as they are.
“A Blessing for Those Who Are Bullied” was written by the Rt. Rev. Steven Charleston, a Bishop of the Episcopal Church.
It is not enough to say “NO” to bullies. It is important to stand up for people and to provide resources for those who have been the targets.
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Report Sexual Misconduct
As part of our ongoing commitment to creating a safe haven for everyone, please be reminded that our diocese values the tenet of our baptismal covenant to “respect the dignity of every human being.” Part of the way we live into that is to train people in the prevention of sexual misconduct. Another part that goes hand-in-hand with training is reporting incidences of sexual misconduct. Our bishop, the Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes, takes reports seriously and investigates them thoroughly and confidentially. If you believe you have experienced sexual misconduct of any kind, please contact Bishop Mathes immediately: bishopmathes@edsd.org, 619-481-5450.
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St. Paul in the Desert’s Directory is being Updated – The information we have in the computer, on each of our parishioners, will be printed in the new St. Paul Directory. If any of your information has changed in the last two years, please give us your updated address, telephone, and email. If you are in any doubt that your information is correct, please fill out the form in the pew pocket and place it in the plate or email valerie.winters@stpaulsps.org
We would rather receive your information again, than have it wrong in the directory.
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