Paid Alto Section Leader Open Sept. 2013

A paid Alto Section Leader position in will be open in St. Paul’s Adult Choir starting September 2013. Interested, or know someone who would be? Contact St. Paul's organist and choirmaster Grant Hellmers at grant@stpaulsalexandria.com for more information and to arrange an audition.

VTS Classes Open to St. Paul's: Old Testament & Biblical Hebrew

This fall, St. Paul’s Parish Associate Stephen Cook will offer an evening class at Virginia Theological Seminary on the Old Testament. This course, open to the St. Paul’s community and required for seminarians, offers an introduction to the interpretation of the Old Testament Scriptures. As a further help for understanding and appreciating the Old Testament, St. Paul’s parishioner Susan Sullivan will also offer a class in Biblical Hebrew. If you are interested in either class, email Ms. Anne M. Karoly; if you have any questions please contact Stephen or Susan directly.

Serenade! Music from Around the World

On Saturday, June 29 at 2 p.m. at St. Paul’s, Classical Movements will present youth and adult choirs from the U.S., Latvia and Australia in a free concert. Join us for this “Serenade!” choral festival of music from around the world.

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities: ALIVE!, VBS, Carpenter's Shelter, and HEP

Looking for ways to contribute your time and talents to St. Paul's outreach ministries? Check out these upcoming opportunities:

• ALIVE! Volunteers Needed at Alexandria Food & Wine Festival on June 22
  As the beneficiary of Alexandria's Food and Wine Festival this Saturday, June 22, ALIVE! is responsible for recruiting volunteers. We need your help! This community-based event promotes local business development and demonstrates the benefits of living, working, and playing in the vibrant Carlyle District. The event will feature tastes of local foods and wine, as well as artisans, a Children’s Corner and live entertainment. Volunteer shifts are only 3 hours long. Volunteers are needed throughout the day, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and jobs range from setup, to greeting/checking in vendors, to ticket sales and manning tents. Please refer to the list of volunteer positions and the volunteer form for specifics. Additional information is located at www.alive-inc.org. 
• Vacation Bible School - June 24-28
  Next week, Vacation Bible School will take a journey through Athens to learn about Paul. We would love for you to participate! There is still space to register and volunteer, and even if you can’t make it during the week, we want as much help as we can get to stock the Lazarus pantry with canned food. On Sunday, June 23, please bring your canned food to church and drop it in the boxes in Norton Hall. You can bring them anytime during the week of VBS. If you have any questions, please email ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com.
• Carpenter's Shelter Dinner on June 26
  St. Paul’s will host dinner at the Carpenter’s Shelter on Wednesday, June 26. We need servers and donations of salads and dessert at the shelter by 5:45 p.m. If you would like to help, please contact Kathy Wood at (703)768-5004 or KCW@hurtnorton.com.
• Highland Educational Project (HEP) - July 28-August 4
  Now is the time to consider donating your time and talent to this year’s Highland Educational Project (HEP) mission. Our journey to McDowell County, West Virginia begins Sunday, July 28, and we return to Alexandria the following Saturday. Adults and “able-bodied teenagers” perform a variety of non-skilled and semi-skilled home repair projects to help selected families live more comfortably and safely. Please call or email Randy Kish to add your name to the list or ask for more information about this time-honored tradition: 703-836-5520, or randall.kish@gmail.com. Please note that you do not need to commit for the entire week—but, gosh, why limit your fun?

Ongoing Repairs Around St. Paul's

Being good stewards includes the responsible care of the beautiful buildings God has entrusted to us. Over a period of the next several months, you may see workmen around who are following through on repairs identified by a building assessment that has prioritized our needs.


The organ is also out of use for part of this month while electrical work is being done in the console to make the combination action (for organ stop presetting) reliable. This is phase one of organ restoration work to be done. It is hoped that phase two (pipe restoration and releathering) can take place during summer 2014.

Reminder: Listen to Calmus Concert Tonight at 9:00

Don't forget -- if you missed the concert by internationally acclaimed German vocal ensemble Calmus at St. Paul’s last month, you can hear it tonight on Classical WETA radio. Tune in to 90.9 FM at 9:00 p.m., or stream the choral showcase live during this time at www.weta.org/fm/listenlive.

Summer Choir & Bible Study Start This Sunday

From this Sunday through September 1, the Summer Choir will sing simple anthems at the 10 a.m. service. Rehearsals are at 9:15 a.m. in the choir gallery. The choir won’t robe or process. If you play a musical instrument, please come and share your musical gifts in our worship. Contact Grant Hellmers if you would like to join the choir, or to schedule a date on which to play your instrument.

Also beginning this Sunday, the Rev. Ross Kane will lead a weekly Bible study following the 10 a.m. service in Upper Norton Hall from 11:15 - noon. Scripture choices will be taken from weekly lectionary readings. No preparation is required and all are welcome

Summer Bible Study Starts June 16

Beginning June 16, the Rev. Ross Kane will lead a weekly Bible study following the 10 a.m. service in Upper Norton Hall from 11:15 - noon. Scripture choices will be taken from weekly lectionary readings. No preparation is required and all are welcome.

Come Sing and Play! Looking for Summer Musicians

From June 16 through September 2, the Summer Choir will sing simple anthems at the 10 a.m. service. Rehearsals are at 9:15 a.m. in the choir gallery. The choir won’t robe or process. If you play a musical instrument, please come and share your musical gifts in our worship. Contact Grant Hellmers at grant@stpaulsalexandria.com to schedule a date on which to play your instrument.

June Minute for Mission: Outreach Ministries

This month in our Minute for Mission during the Saturday and Sunday services, we will be giving an overview of all of the various opportunities to get involved in St. Paul’s Outreach Ministries. Visit our website to learn more about the work these ministries are doing locally, regionally, and globally. For more information or to volunteer, contact the Rev. Ross Kane at ross@stpaulsalexandria.com.

St. Paul's Lazarus Ministry Awarded Grant

We are honored and thrilled to announce that the St. Paul’s Lazarus Ministry has been chosen as a recipient of a Westminster Presbyterian Church Community Grant for 2013. The $5,000 grant will fund a project that the Ministry designed to help us to “Bridge the Gap Between Crisis Remediation and Self-Sufficiency Through Enhanced Technology.” A formal presentation of the grant will occur at the 10 a.m. service at Westminster on June 30. Please contact Dorothy Pearson at lazarus@stpaulsalexandria.com if you are interested in learning more about this exciting development.

Calmus Concert to Air on WETA Radio

If you missed the concert by internationally acclaimed German vocal ensemble Calmus at St. Paul’s last month, you can hear it on Classical WETA radio. Tune in to 90.9 FM at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 16. You can also stream the choral showcase live during this time at www.weta.org/fm/listenlive.

Gentle Yoga for All Continues

Join us for “Gentle Yoga for All” classes in Norton Hall, Wednesdays from 4:15-5:15 p.m. Newcomers are always welcome! A percentage of the class fees will be donated to the Lazarus Ministry and Carpenter’s Shelter. For more information, please contact Margaret Townsend at yoga.with.margaret@gmail.com or by phone at 571-218-2161.

June 2 Hymn Festival at Christ Church

On Sunday, June 2 at 5 p.m. a Hymn Festival led by Bruce Neswick will be held at Christ Church. The St. Paul’s Choir will participate along with other Episcopal Church choirs. Bruce Neswick teaches at Indiana University, was formerly Organist-Choirmaster at the cathedrals of St. John the Divine (New York City) and Atlanta, and was Assistant Organist at National Cathedral where he founded the girls’ choir. He is a superb improviser as will be heard at the Hymn Festival. All are invited to attend; a reception will follow. Click the above image to enlarge for more information.

Join Us for Fun & Fellowship at the Annual Parish Picnic

It's that time of year again: our Annual Parish Picnic is approaching! Join us for a day of fun in the sun with your St. Paul's friends, following the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, June 9 at VTS. We'll have a delicious fried chicken lunch, along with fun attractions for kids, great music, and more. The cost is $12 per person or $35 per family. Please RSVP in advance in order to help us get an accurate headcount for food; call Donna in the office at 703-549-3312 or email donnarlefeve@gmail.com.

Last Spring Adult Forum: Reed Sandridge of the Year of Giving Project

In our final Adult Forum of the Spring season, we welcome special guest Reed Sandridge of the Year of Giving project. Reed will share the life-changing story of how he gave away $10 a day to a complete stranger for one year; his work has been featured in numerous media outlets such as CBS, the Washington Post, and NPR. Join us at 10 a.m. in Upper Norton Hall (childcare will be provided by weeSIT during the forum hour).

Retreat to Shrine Mont This September at St. Paul's Parish Weekend

When can you put down your phone and pick up your soul? How can you slow life down? Where can you sit on a porch rocker, hang out with family & friends and reconnect with life? Why, at our parish retreat at Shrine Mont, of course!

Please join St. Paul’s as we celebrate time at this “place apart for rest, devotion and fellowship where we may all grow in the grace of God.” We will worship in beautiful Orkney Springs, VA, September 13-15. And remember, if you are a younger parishioner, then we’ll have a youth program and babysitters will be available for our littlest parishioners.

We are delighted to announce that our speakers this year will be the Rev. Ross Kane and Dr. Ted Martin, who will speak to us about faith and science. We love our Shrine Mont sessions to be interactive and Ross and Ted want to hear from you in advance. Get your questions about faith and science ready so you can help to guide the weekend’s conversation. Look for opportunities to shape the discussion on our registration form as well as for posts on our Facebook page.

Registration forms are available at the church office, on the welcome cart or on the homepage of the St. Paul’s website. If have any questions or would like to help make the weekend even better, then please join our planning team by contacting Tara Foscato (202-997-4135 or tarawfoscato@gmail.com) or Ellen King (703-549-3312 or ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com). We hope you can join us this September at Shrine Mont!

Youth & Children's Summer Programs

Mark your calendars for upcoming youth and children's programs this summer:

• Vacation Bible School: June 24-28, 9 a.m. – noon, Norton Hall 
• Middle School Mission Trip: July 12-14, Field Gleaning in Exmore, VA 
• Reaching Out to the Community: July 22-26, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., youth ages 12 and up 
• High School Mission Trip: August 4-10, Boston, MA 

Registration is available online or by emailing ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Parents' Morning Out Fall Registration

Registration for Parents’ Morning Out is open for the 2013-2014 school year. At PMO, two-year-olds have structured play and socialization 2-3 mornings a week while parents get to have a morning “off.” Spots are still available for this fall; please contact ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com for more information.

New Summer Youth Outreach Event

We are excited to announce a new youth event: Reaching Out to the Community. All youth ages 12 and up are invited to join us July 22-26 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. to help people in our own community. In the morning we will volunteer at various organizations in Alexandria and in the afternoon we have fun. Options for the afternoon include bowling, mini-golfing, going to a movie, and other fun activities. Find more information online, or email ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com.

May 12 Adult Forum on Communications Survey Results & Strategy

In our recent parish communications survey, we asked how we can improve our communications efforts -- and you answered. Now is the chance to hear how we plan to move forward, and offer your feedback.

At this Sunday's Adult Forum, we will discuss the results of the survey, as well as the next steps we're planning to take to further our communications strategy. Your continued input is valuable in helping us create an informed, engaged, empowered, and inspired St. Paul's community. Join us at 10 a.m. in Upper Norton Hall.

Ascension Day Choral Evensong

On Thursday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., Ascension Day Choral Evensong will be sung by the St. Paul’s Choir. Come celebrate this important feast day in the church year. Music will include works by Archer, Ayleward, Wood, Walmisley and Messiaen. A reception will follow. Donations of non-perishable food items will be taken for the Lazarus Ministry to assist those in need.

Acolyte Commissioning This Sunday

We hope you'll join us for acolyte commissioning this Sunday, May 5 as part of the 11:00 a.m. service. All acolytes are invited to take part in the celebration. The congregation is grateful for your service.

EYC College/Military Outreach Project

We are starting an outreach to the former youth of St. Paul's who are away at college or technical school or serving in the military and would like to send notes from current EYC youth and possibly a care package during the school year. However, we need your help. If you are willing to share your child's current mailing address, school, and year in school, we would love to include them in this project. Here's the information we'd like to have:
LAST NAME:
FIRST NAME:
PREFERRED SALUTATION:
CURRENT MAILING ADDRESS:
SCHOOL:
YEAR:
PARENT/GUARDIAN NAME:
Please send the information to Stephanie Campbell at sjc8665@gmail.com.

May 5 Adult Forum: "Science, Technology, and Moral Challenges: What Will Be Our Environmental Legacy?"

Our series Conversations in Faith and Science concludes this week with special guest, the Rev. Pat Watkins, discussing "Science, Technology, and Moral Challenges: What Will Be Our Environmental Legacy?" Join us at 10 a.m. in Upper Norton Hall. The series is also available for download on the St. Paul’s website. Next week, we will hold a special Adult Forum to discuss results and next steps from the recent parish communications survey.

"Think & Drink" Book Group Meets Tonight

St. Paul’s Book Group, "Think and Drink," will meet tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Vestry Room. We are reading "Bad Religion" by Ross Douthat. Newcomers are always welcome. The discussion is informal and we enjoy a little wine and cheese along with our fellowship. If you have any questions, contact Sam Mason.

Help Wanted for Christ House Dinner, Mon., Apr. 29

Help is needed for a Christ House dinner on Monday, Apr. 29. Servers will be needed from 4:30-6:15 p.m. and bakers can drop off baked goods at Christ House on Sunday or Monday before 4:30 p.m. Christ House is located at the corner of West and Prince Street in Old Town. If you would like to help, please contact Bob Aulthouse at raulthouse@aol.com.

Silent Auction for Children & Youth This Saturday

We hope you'll join us for the Youth & Children’s Silent Auction this Saturday, April 20 from 7-9 p.m. in Norton Hall. We have many great items to bid on such as Nationals Tickets, vineyard tours, getaways to Orlando and New York, camps for children, and gift cards to local spas, restaurants, and museums. Tickets are now on sale for our “Stock the Cellar” Wine Raffle. For $25 a ticket, you have the chance to win 50 amazing wines and you do not need to be present at the Auction to win. Ticket order forms are available in the office or by emailing Ellen King.

Find us on Facebook to check out a sample of some of the amazing items up for bid!

Servers and Food Donations Needed for Carpenter's Shelter Dinner on Wed., Apr. 24

St. Paul’s will host dinner at the Carpenter’s Shelter on Wednesday, Apr. 24. We need servers and donations of salads and dessert at the shelter by 5:45 p.m. If you would like to help, please email Penny Seckler at pseckler@coca-cola.com.

Reminder: Calmus Concert at St. Paul's This Friday

Internationally acclaimed German vocal ensemble Calmus will be performing in concert at St. Paul’s this Friday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. as part of their 2013 U.S. tour. The program will consist of German masterpieces from Schütz and Bach to Schumann and folksongs. Tickets are $20 each if reserved in advance (703-683-6040), using the key word “St. Paul’s,” or $25 at the door ($22 for seniors & students). A reception will follow in Norton Hall.

Volunteer for Meals on Wheels

St. Paul’s delivers Meals on Wheels on the fourth Wednesday of every month to Alexandrians who are housebound. Volunteers are needed to serve on two-person teams (one driver and one runner, the person who takes the meal to the door) on either a substitute or regularly-scheduled basis. This service to the community takes about two hours, between 10 a.m. and noon, once a month. For more information, call Verleah Kosloske at 703-931-1423.

Mark Your Calendars: Vacation Bible School, June 24-28

All children ages three through third grade are welcome to join us for Vacation Bible School June 24-28, 9 a.m.-noon. We will be going on a journey through Athens as we learn more about Paul’s life and letters. Register online here. Middle and high school youth are welcome to volunteer as staff for the week. There are many opportunities for adults to volunteer too. Please email ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com to volunteer or for more information.

Adult Forums Resume Next Sunday

Adult Forums resume on April 14 with a series entitled Conversations on Faith and Science.

• April 14: “Is There a Science of Evil?” with the Rev. Dr. Kate Sonderegger of Virginia Theological Seminary 
• April 21: “Is There Morality in Human Evolution?” with the Rev. Ross Kane 
• April 28: “How Are Miracles Possible?” with physicist and St. Paul’s parishioner Dr. Ted Martin

Carpenter’s Shelter Celebrates 25 Years

On April 7 at the 9:00 a.m. service, we will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Carpenter’s Shelter, a ministry with the homeless of Alexandria. If you have ever volunteered with Carpenter’s Shelter we invite you to attend this service as we acknowledge St. Paul’s long partnership with this vibrant ministry.

Bishop's Visit on April 7

Please plan to join us next Sunday, April 7, for the Bishop’s annual visit to St. Paul’s. The Rt. Rev. Susan Goff, bishop suffragan of the Diocese of Virginia, will be presiding at the 11 a.m. service of baptism and confirmation.

Mite Box Collection

Children and families that have been collecting change throughout Lent, it is time to return your mite boxes. Those small, white boxes given out during Lent have hopefully been collecting change to donate to our Lazarus Ministry. Bring them this Sunday, or any Sunday throughout the Easter season, and drop them off in the baskets at the back of the church (near the children's bulletins).

Theology on Tap This Sunday

Join Theology on Tap this Sunday, March 24 at O’Connell’s Restaurant (King and Union Streets) at 6:30 p.m. Our topic is Finding the Eternal in the Present. Note: Theology on Tap is meeting a week early this month due to Easter.

Bell Ringers Needed for Palm Sunday

We're looking for bell ringers to join us Palm Sunday, March 24, for the procession from Market Square (after the ecumenical liturgy there) back to St. Paul’s for the 9 a.m. service. No experience or music reading skills are necessary. Meet Grant Hellmers and Ellen King in the church gallery (Duke St. side) at 8:30 a.m. Sunday to pick up a bell or two.

Carpenter's Shelter Cooking This Sunday

This Sunday, March 24, the youth will be helping to prepare dinner for the Carpenter’s Shelter. Please join us at 10 a.m. in Norton Kitchen to help put together casseroles that will be delivered for dinner later this week. Email ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com if you have any questions.

Holy Week and Easter Service Schedule

Please note the schedule below for our special Holy Week and Easter services.

March 23: Liturgy of the Palms
Faith @ 5:00

March 24: Palm Sunday - Liturgy of the Palms
Regular Service Times
The 9:00 a.m. procession begins at Market Square.

March 27: Wednesday in Holy Week
12:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist in the Chapel

March 28: Maundy Thursday
Proper Liturgy at 7:30 p.m.

March 29: Good Friday
7:30 a.m. Proper Liturgy

12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Joint Service at Christ Church

5:30 p.m. Family Service

7:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross

March 30: Holy Saturday
12:00 p.m. Holy Saturday Service in the Chapel
7:30 p.m. The Great Vigil of Easter
There will be no Faith @ 5:00 service on this day.

March 31: Easter Sunday
6:52 a.m. Sunrise Service at St. Paul’s Cemetery
Easter services also at 7:45 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m.
There will be no 5:00 p.m. service on this day.

Reminders: Communications Surveys & Easter Lily Donations Due Friday

Don't forget these two upcoming deadlines this week: communications surveys and easter lily donations are due this Friday, March 22. 

• There’s still time to take our communications survey, and we’d love to have your feedback! If you have not already, please take the survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/stpaulscomm. This survey is anonymous, and your input will assist us in most effectively forging the path ahead.
• This is the last week for returning the Memorial Easter Lily forms. They are due in the office this Friday. Please make your checks payable to St. Paul’s and write “Lilies” in the memo line.

Wednesday Lenten Series: What will our bodies be like in heaven?

The Episcopal churches in Alexandria are hosting a joint Lenten Series entitled Science and Faith. This Wednesday join VTS professor the Rev. Kate Sonderegger for a discussion of the question “What will our bodies be like in heaven?”, at Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill, 3606 Seminary Rd, Alexandria. The evening consists of Holy Eucharist at 6:30 p.m., a Simple Supper at 7:00 p.m., and the program from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Child care will be provided.

Communion Class for Young Children & Parents

All people, regardless of age, are welcome to receive communion at St. Paul’s. However, if you have a young child and would like them to learn more about the sacrament, the Rev. Dr. Rosemary Beales will be holding a class for children and their parents this Sunday at 10 a.m. The class will meet in the Liturgics classroom on the second floor of Wilmer Hall.

Sequestration & the St. Paul's Squad

The St. Paul’s Squad is a team of parishioners assisting those in career transition. If you are facing such transition due to sequestration, please contact the Rev. Ross Kane at ross@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Special Adult Forum This Sunday: Harriet Baka of the Episcopal Church of Sudan

This Sunday, we are delighted to welcome Harriet Baka of the Episcopal Church of Sudan. Harriet serves as coordinator of the Mothers’ Union for the Episcopal Church of Sudan, carrying a significant voice for women’s issues in the church and in South Sudan as a whole. Harriet and the Rev. Ross Kane will discuss South Sudan, the church, and the role of women in Sudanese church and society. Please plan to be with us to support Harriet and hear about her faithful work for the church.

Easter Lily Donations

Each year St. Paul’s parishioners remember loved ones with a donation for lilies to the church. Envelopes are available in each pew for this purpose. Please write “Lilies” in the memo line on all checks. Envelopes may be returned with the offering or to the office by March 22. For more information, please contact Donna Lefeve at 703-549-3312 ext. 14.

Wednesday Lenten Series: Does God participate in concrete ways in the working of the universe and the unfolding of history?

The Episcopal churches in Alexandria are hosting a joint Lenten Series entitled Science and Faith. This Wednesday, join the Rev. Kyle Matthew Oliver for a discussion of how God participates in concrete ways in the working of the universe and the unfolding of history, at Church of the Resurrection, 2280 N Beauregard St, Alexandria. The evening consists of Holy Eucharist at 6:30 p.m., a Simple Supper at 7:00 p.m., and the program from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Child care will be provided.

Tonight: An Evening of Choral Favorites

The choir from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology will perform an evening of choral favorites at St. Paul’s tonight, Thursday, March 7 at 7 p.m. in the nave. Molly Khatcheressian, St. Paul’s 5 p.m. Sunday musician, is the choir director. The program includes raucous madrigals, joyful folk songs and selections from masterworks such as Mozart’s Requiem and Mendelssohn’s Elijah. Come be inspired by the young musicians of the TJ Choir.

Lenten Faith@Home Resources

Conversation and faith practices can be a part of everyday life, not only in one season. However, Lent is a wonderful time to begin to enter into some of the faith at home rituals that other families have been exploring for several months now.

Check our website (News & Events/Faith@Home section) for Faith@Home resources including daily devotionals, suggestions for centering prayer and praying the Bible, and even a Lenten spin on March Madness.

Time to Spring Forward!

Don't forget to set your clocks an hour ahead this weekend: Daylight Saving Time starts at 2:00 a.m. this Sunday, March 10.

We Entrust to God's Care

A service in celebration of the life of Joyce Glover will be held at St. Paul’s on Tuesday, March 5, at 11:00 a.m. After the service, the Committal will take place at the cemetery at Virginia Theological Seminary with a reception to follow at the Deanery.

A service in celebration of the life of Marion Young will be held at St. Paul’s on Saturday, March 9, at 1:00 p.m. A reception will follow in Norton Hall.

A service in celebration of the life of Howard Edwards will be held at St. Paul’s on Saturday, March 23, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow in Norton Hall.

Eat Your Greens at First Friday Tonight

Join First Friday tonight for a night of green - be it Irish, springing plants, or paying taxes. Please bring something to share - your favorite beverage (green tea? limeade?), an appetizer (pesto dip?), soda, an addition to our salad bar - or just come, even if the green muse doesn't strike. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. tonight in Norton Hall. Child care is provided.

Wednesday Lenten Series: How Are Miracles Possible?

The Episcopal churches in Alexandria are hosting a joint Lenten Series entitled Science and Faith. This Wednesday, join St. Paul’s own Dr. Ted Martin for a discussion of the topic “How Are Miracles Possible?” at Meade Memorial Church, 322 N Alfred St, Alexandria. The evening consists of Holy Eucharist at 6:30 p.m., a Simple Supper at 7:00 p.m., and the program from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Child care will be provided.

Church Tours This Sunday

Are you new to St. Paul's, or a long-time member wanting to explore the church's beautiful architecture and rich history? Enjoy a walking tour of St. Paul's this Sunday led by Heidi Schneble, parishioner and one of the leaders of the Alexandria Ghost Tours. No ghosts on this tour, just lots of interesting history about our parish. Please look for Heidi at the Weekly Welcome Coffee in the Johnston Room after the 9 or 11 a.m. service.

Lenten Adult Forum: Poetry as Spiritual Practice

This Sunday, our Lenten Series Get a Faith Lift: Holy Practices of Lent continues. We welcome Kathleen Staudt of Wesley Seminary and Virginia Theological Seminary, who will speak on poetry as spiritual practice. Next week, join the Rev. Ross Kane for “Reading and Study as Prayer.”

Please Complete our Communications Survey

We have issued a communications survey to give you a chance to provide us with feedback on how we’re doing in spreading the good news of the Gospel and the good works our many ministries are providing. This survey is anonymous, and your input will assist us in most effectively forging the path ahead. Surveys can be found in the pews, or online at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/stpaulscomm. We greatly appreciate your input and will use it to shape existing and future communications efforts.

Save the Date! Silent Auction on April 20

This year’s Children & Youth Silent Auction will be Saturday, April 20 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in Norton Hall. The evening will include light refreshments and a chance to bid on exciting items including food and wine, tickets to Redskins and Nationals games, concerts and shows, gift certificates to local restaurants and much more. Invitations with reply cards will be sent soon, but mark the date on your calendar now! For more information, or if you want to help, contact Ellen King or Corinne Marasco.

"Think and Drink" Book Group Meeting This Tuesday

St. Paul’s Book Group will meet this Tuesday, Feb. 26 to finish our discussion of Thomas Cranmer by Diarmaid MacCulloch. We will meet in the vestry room at 7:30 p.m. Our usual meeting night is Wednesday, but we are changing it this time to accommodate those who wish to attend the Regional Lenten Program on Wednesdays. All are invited to join. If you have any questions, contact The Rev. Sam Mason.

Theology on Tap This Sunday

Join Theology on Tap for Part II of the question “Are Justice and Christian Love in Harmony or Opposition?” Participants are encouraged to read this story as preparation. All are welcome; no need to have attended the first part of this conversation to attend the second. We meet this Sunday evening at O’Connell’s Restaurant in Old Town at 6:15 p.m.

Wednesday Lenten Series: Is There a Science of Evil?

The Episcopal churches in Alexandria are hosting a joint Lenten Series entitled Science and Faith. This Wednesday, join VTS Professor Rev. Dr. Kate Sonderegger for a discussion of the topic “Is there a Science of Evil?” at Church of St. Clement, 1701 N Quaker Lane, Alexandria. The evening consists of Holy Eucharist at 6:30 p.m., a Simple Supper at 7:00 p.m., and the program from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Child care will be provided.

Lenten Adult Forums Continue Next Sunday, 3/3

Our Lenten Adult Forum Series Get a Faith Lift: Holy Practices of Lent continues next week on Sunday, March 3, with Kathleen Staudt of Wesley Seminary and Virginia Theological Seminary speaking on poetry as spiritual practice.

Missed an Adult Forum? Audio recordings are now available via the St. Paul’s website, on the Ministries/Adult Education page. If you miss a forum or want to hear one again, download an mp3 of our wonderful speakers. Links to other Lenten Adult Forum resources are also available on the website.

Wednesday Lenten Series: Are Science and Faith Compatible?

The Episcopal churches in Alexandria are hosting a joint Lenten Series entitled Science and Faith. This Wednesday, join Dr. Paul Julienne, Physics Professor at University of Maryland, for a discussion of the topic “Are Science and Faith Compatible?” at Emmanuel Church, 1608 Russell Rd, Alexandria. The evening consists of Holy Eucharist at 6:30 p.m., a Simple Supper at 7:00 p.m., and the program from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Child care will be provided.

Middle and High School Volunteers Needed for ALIVE Food Distribution, Feb. 23

St. Paul's is actively involved with ALIVE, an organization that distributes food to the less fortunate members of our community. On Saturday, February 23, we will be working with ALIVE to distribute food to the Ladre Apartments in Northern Old Town. We welcome all Middle and High Schoolers to attend as well as parents to chaperone. We will meet at the church at 7:30 a.m. and will be back no later than noon. Please RSVP to Alex Holm at c.alex.holm@gmail.com or Ellen King at ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Help Wanted for Feb. 27 Carpenter’s Shelter Dinner

St. Paul’s will host dinner at the Carpenter’s Shelter on Wednesday, Feb. 27. We need servers and donations of salads and dessert at the shelter by 5:45 p.m. If you would like to help, please email Pam Wright at pamela.mars-wright@effem.com.

Reminder: Vote for 2013 Vestry Candidates by Feb. 21

Don't forget to cast your vote for the 2013 Vestry members. Bios and photos of nominees are available on the homepage of the St. Paul's website. Be sure to either drop off your ballot at the parish office by Thursday, February 21, or place it in the collection plate during church services until February 17.

Science & Faith? Region 4 Lenten Series 2013

The Episcopal churches in Alexandria are hosting a joint Lenten Series entitled Science and Faith. The programs, held each Wednesday from February 20 - March 20 at 7:30 p.m. (with Holy Eucharist preceding at 6:30 p.m. and a "Simple Supper" at 7:00) will cover topics including the science and faith behind miracles, evil, the afterlife, and more. Find more details in this Region 4 Lenten Series flyer.

It's Syrup Time! Pancake Supper on Feb. 12

Mark your calendars for the St. Paul’s Pancake Supper and Mardi Gras festivities, on “Fat” Tuesday, Feb. 12. Seatings will be at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.; there’s plenty of food and fun for all ages. If you can, please let us know which seating you prefer. Brought to you by your Vestry, wearing aprons! Donations of $5 per person or max of $12 per family will be appreciated. Questions? Contact Diana Forbes at 703-836-3203 or dianatforbes@gmail.com.

Come Ring With Us!

St. Paul’s Hand Bell Choir (adults and older teens) needs more ringers so we can explore more of the music in our library. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays 7:45-9:00 p.m. in the church. No previous bell choir ringing experience necessary; we’ll teach you how to play hand bells. Hand bell choir will next play on February 10, Easter Day, and May 12 at the 11 a.m. services. To join us (it’s a fun group of people) or for more information, contact Grant Hellmers at grant@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Ash Wednesday Services at St. Paul's

Ash Wednesday services at St. Paul’s will take place on Wednesday, February 16 at 7:30 a.m, 12:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. in the church. Please join us.

For the Love of Chocolate: Join Us at First Friday This Week

For millennia, February has been a time of public declarations of affection, sugar-coated gluttony and wild abandonment of resolutions. Your (loving) hosts of First Friday are fond of tradition, so we’re devoting our next gathering to CHOCOLATE. Bring us your most delectable, irresistibly, completely chocolicious dishes. We all shall vote on the best. The winner will take home an amazing prize. Join us this Friday, February 1, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., in Upper Norton Hall. Dinner is provided; please bring something to share – your favorite beverage, an appetizer, soda, a salad — or just come. If you'll need childcare, please contact ross@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Deepen Your Faith at Inquirers' Class

If you are new to St. Paul’s, seeking membership, or a longtime member looking to deepen your faith, the Inquirers’ Class is for you. Class begins Wednesday, Feb. 20 and meets each Wednesday from 7:30-9:00 p.m. through March 27. For more information and to sign up for the class, contact the Rev. Ross Kane at ross@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Volunteer Opportunities with Children & Youth

Sunday School and the youth group are always looking for adults to help teach lessons, chaperone trips and events, and to just have fun with the young people of St. Paul’s. The new year is always a great time to find out about volunteering and there are a variety of ways you can be involved. If you want to know more about how you can help, email ellen@stpaulsalexandria.com.

Diane Rehm to Speak at Martha J. Horne Lecture, Feb. 3

Please join us for the annual Martha J. Horne Lecture on Sunday, February 3 at 10:00 a.m. in the Nave. We are pleased that WAMU radio host Diane Rehm will be with us for this year’s presentation, entitled “I Have Called You Friends.” The presentation will consist of a conversation about friendship, with Diane Rehm and Oran Warder reflecting on their long-term friendship with the late Jane Holmes Dixon, Suffragan Bishop of Washington.

Theology on Tap: Justice and Christian Love

This month, Theology on Tap asks: "Are justice and Christian love in harmony or opposition?" Join us for the first of this two-part conversation this Sunday, Jan. 27 at 6:15 p.m. at O'Connell's Restaurant.

Tour St. Paul's This Sunday

Are you new to St. Paul's, or a long-time member wanting to explore the church's beautiful architecture and rich history? Enjoy a walking tour of St. Paul's this Sunday led by Heidi Schneble, parishioner and one of the leaders of the Alexandria Ghost Tours. No ghosts on this tour, just lots of interesting history about our parish. Please look for Heidi at the Weekly Welcome Coffee in the Johnston Room after the 9 or 11 a.m. service. Can't make it this week? Look for upcoming tours in March.

Gentle Yoga for All at St. Paul's

St. Paul's will be hosting a "Gentle Yoga for All" class for the next five Wednesdays from 4:15-5:15 p.m. Newcomers are always welcome! A percentage of the class fees will be donated to the Lazarus Ministry and Carpenter's Shelter. For more information, please contact Margaret Townsend.

Learn More About Upcoming Confirmation Classes

 

At confirmation class, middle school youth will learn what the Episcopal Church is all about, the many different parts that make up Sunday morning worship, the history of the church, and much more. This year we have incorporated some new lessons as well that will be taught through the characters and stories of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter. What can Harry, Ron, and Hermione teach us about the trinity, sacrifice, the church, and love? Join us for this year's Saturday morning confirmation classes starting Feb. 9 to find out.

Click here to read the letter sent to all potential confirmands and parents, and a detailed schedule of confirmation classes and events. Please contact Ellen King if you have questions.

Calling All Scout Leaders

All youth and adult leaders in Boy Scout programs (Cub Scout, Webelos, Boy Scout, Venture, Explorer, and Sea Scout), Girl Scouts programs (Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors), American Heritage Girls, Camp Fire USA or any youth program that wish to be recognized on Scout Sunday, please come in uniform to the 9:00 a.m. family service on February 3. We will be recognizing leaders for serving in these fine youth organizations, building character, developing citizenship and leadership skills, and serving God and the community. Contact Steve Richardson at ristph@aol.com for additional details.

St. Paul's Book Group, "Think and Drink," Meeting Jan. 23

St. Paul’s Book Group, “Think and Drink,” will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Vestry Room. We are reading Thomas Cranmer: A Life by Diarmaid MacCulloch. We will spend two months on this book: half in January and half in February. Newcomers are always welcome. The discussion is informal and we enjoy a little wine and cheese along with our fellowship. If you have any questions, contact Sam Mason.

Annual Meeting & 2013 Vestry Nominations

The Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 24 at 10:00 a.m. in the Nave. There is a call for 2013 Vestry Nominations—the Nominating Committee will be accepting nominations until Tuesday, January 22. Nomination forms are available in the parish office or on the St. Paul's website.

Faith@Home Resumes Next Sunday

Rev. Dr. Rosemary Beales’ class will resume on Jan. 13 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. and will meet in the Choir Room below Norton Hall. The class will meet for six consecutive weeks from Jan. 13 till Feb. 17. Please plan to attend as many classes as possible to learn more about Faith@Home practices.

Next Adult Forum Jan. 13: Living the Scriptures with Diana Butler Bass

Diana Butler Bass leads our first forum of the New Year at 10:00 a.m. next Sunday, Jan. 13 in Upper Norton Hall. Join us for a new series, entitled Living the Scriptures, which explores how engagement with Holy Scripture can transform our everyday lives.

Youth and Children's Schedule

Youth group will resume this week with an Epiphany party. Middle schoolers will meet from 4:30 to 6:30 and high schoolers from 6 to 8. Regular Sunday School for children and youth will resume next Sunday, Jan. 13 at 10 a.m.

First Friday Tonight: B.Y.O.C. (Bring Your Own Chili)

Are you up to your ears in white lights, wrapping paper and the chorus of "All I Want for Christmas"? Are you craving not eggnog and candy canes, but perhaps, a heaping bowl of, say, chili? If so, dig out your best recipe -- be it Cincinnati style, Flamin' Texas, or veggie -- and bring your entry to First Friday. If you’re still honing your personal chili recipe, simply come and enjoy the chili of fellow parishioners. Tonight at 6 p.m. in Upper Norton Hall, childcare provided. If you'll need childcare, please email Rev. Ross Kane.