Grace Notes from St. Luke's

Response to Letter to the Editor

2011-10-09T23:34:00.002-05:00

Someone has asked how to get a copy of the original letter from Todd Cone. You can check with the EE and possibly get a copy. Today a friend sent a copy to me, but I cannot seem to copy it to my blog. If you send me an email address, I can send it to you. Just write to leestephens@episcopalbartlesville.org. I will get it to you soon.
Peace.
Fr. Lee+

Letter to the Editor 10/7/11

2011-10-07T22:40:00.001-05:00

Dear Editor,

On Monday, October 3rd, I read one of the most scandalous letters to the editor I have ever seen. The writer, Todd Cone, was open and articulate with his views. However, if this represents our community and country, we are in serious trouble.

I won’t get into the presidential politics of the letter. Promoting or demonizing candidates from either party is not my way or role. Nor will I get into his critical views of democracy and what appears to be the promotion of a modern-day “feudalism” and call to “class warfare.”

What I found especially troubling was his characterization of people who struggle every day to survive in poverty. He referred to them as “looters,” ungrateful users of food stamps and free health care and people to have babies just to “keep the gravy train of government handouts coming.” The writer also suggests the poor could/will vote for people who will increase their “largess out of the public treasury.”

The lens through which the writer views his fellow citizens shows he does not understand what life is like in poverty and the implications of “generational poverty.” Or, perhaps he is simply using this stereotype of the poor as political leverage. In truth most of the people in poverty, don’t vote. They are simply trying to survive day after day without knowing how to do life any other way.

The letter also sounds heartless to me. There is not even a hint of compassion – much less Christian compassion. I know nothing of the writer’s faith, but I know where Jesus spent most of his time – with the poor and outcasts of society who suffered immeasurably under the abusive power of not only the Roman Empire but the “elite” of their own people.

The writer made a big point that no one on welfare has ever told him “thank you” for all the “handouts.” The writer would do well to learn what life is really like in poverty. The best way to learn is to befriend people in poverty and let them teach you. I know that personally through involvement with Bridges Out of Poverty. I have met some amazing people and learned much about life through them.

If that happened, the writer might develop an “informed compassion” and give himself to helping his neighbors become a self-sufficient citizens. He could volunteer through Bridges, Vision Onward, Martha’s Task, Agape Mission, CONCERN, and other efforts to help the poor. The experience might very well change them and him.

The number of people in poverty is at an all time high and growing – and yes, some use the system. Turning the tide will only happen through OUR understanding poverty, informed compassion and personal involvement. Come, let us work together in making a difference person to person.

Fr. Lee Stephens
St. Luke's Episcopal Church

A Possible Debt Deat -- Our Sickness Revealed

2011-07-31T23:35:00.000-05:00

And so, Washington reached a tentative agreement on the debt ceiling. Why don't I feel better? We are sick. I am amazed at how much time I have spent watching and reading about all of this -- another sign of the sickness. Regardless of how "the" vote goes tomorrow, the real question is whether or not this messy fracture in our governmenal processes will lead to true reform and vision for our country -- and I don't mean "Tea Party" reform or more misuse of power that continues to broaden the gap between the rich and the middle class --not to mention the poor. I am less and less confident. As I often ask, where is God in this? At the moment, I don't know, but I seriously doubt it is in D.C.

.

Good Feedback for St. Luke's

2011-07-06T23:01:00.000-05:00

Note from CA visitors to St. Luke's (pardon my bragging): My wife and I were tremendously impressed with the entire experience at St. Luke's. The whole feeling of community was great and we really liked the sermon. The church is great -- a wonder aura of friendliness and service. Sincerely, Phil and Rose

Happens Saturday -- Don't miss it!

2011-06-10T23:26:00.000-05:00

Experience Trumpets!

"Take an outing with Trumpet and Organ!" We are going to travel through a wide range of composers' music as we interact with you through the complex, tongue and cheek, and hilarious compositions that fill our repertoire. Bring your children as well as your Grandparents as there will be captivating interest for all. Dr. Goforth and Dolores McCreary have performed together often and are a returning favorite for the OK Mozart Festival. They are known for their fresh presentations that leave their audiences with an appreciation for the art we all love.

Saturday, June 11, 2:00pm-3:30pm
St. Luke's Episcopal Church
$8 adults, $4 children

Spiritual Cinema Circle at St. Luke's

2011-06-08T22:39:00.001-05:00

The film shorts are well written and nicely portrayed. Each one seems to take a slice of life and simply magnifies it for everyone to see. The filmmaker uses skills of perception and technology to make the situation to come to life. Meanwhile, we eagerly position ourselves to do more than just watch. We want to engage the film even as it seeks to engage us in a matter of only ten to fifteen minutes.

One can enjoy the film as simply a story depicting something of a life situation. That is gratifying up to a point and nothing more. You may also search for some moral to the story. After all, there must be some reason for choosing this living portrait. We are supposed to get “something” out of it. Indeed the discussion following a film short can go many different directions. The more participants viewing, the more “somethings” may be seen and shared.

Yet, the film short series we are using in the Summer Discipleship Forum is entitled “Spiritual Cinema Circle.” The films do provide some kind of story. They also encourage insights about life that challenge us to see things in a different way and perhaps grow. To use the term “spiritual” suggests that we are being invited to go even deeper. God often isn’t mentioned but God is often very present. Salvation isn’t preached, but transformation, on the screen and in us, is often happening.

These Spiritual Cinema films invite, sometime pull, us to a deeper level concerning the meaning of life. Though our desire is often covered by the busyness of our lives, we all want to understand and live into the meaning of life for us. And, as a Community of Faith, we naturally understand that involves God (by whatever name), people (of all kinds) and every day life (unending varieties).

So, in any given film we may be challenged intellectually and/or touched emotionally by what we experience, but one must ask is there something more – deeper – relevant – transforming? If God is in all things and moments and relationships, is there something to be experienced of the divine? If we all share in a common humanity even as different as we are, are there lessons and connections we share with each other. And, if every day opportunities, circumstances, choices, relationships and surprises compose the stuff of our lives, shouldn’t we be asking what is really important and what does it all mean?

The Spiritual Cinema Circle experience may raise actually more questions than answers, but I believe we will come away blessed, changed and more sensitive to all of the above. This should not be approached in a “ponderous” way, but with a serious and playful desire to go deeper in our faith and in life.

Come and join in this summertime experiment with Spiritual Cinema on Sunday mornings in the Discipleship Forum at 9:15. This is a gathering where everyone knows your name and wants to hear what you have to say. Don’t be late.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Landon Paul Stephens has been born!

2011-06-07T21:45:00.000-05:00

Landon Paul Stephens was born today to our youngest son, Jason, and his wife, Erica in Kansas City. He is a healthy 7 lbs 1oz and 19 inches long. We have not heard how his three year old sister, Savannah, is handling all of this. We are grateful for all four of them -- really happy grandparents again. We will hold Landon in two weeks.

In-between Times -- there is hope

2011-06-06T23:14:00.000-05:00

What's on my mind? "In-between times" In my sermon on Sunday I talked about the disciples being between the Ascension and Pentecost -- a mixture of hope/doubt, vision/uncertainity, joy/fear, etc. Then I talked about our in-between times -- gave a few examples and stressed the importance of God's perpetual presence and grace and the importance of the Church in these times. I was taken back by the number of people who told me after the service they were in an "in-between" time and needed the reassurance. I love the Church -- St. Luke's in particular.
Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Summer Solstice Celebration -- more info

2011-06-01T22:57:00.003-05:00

New News: The Outreach Committee has just expanded the fundraising to include Joplin!

The Big Event -- Entering June, the countdown to the Summer Solstice Celebration begins. This is going to be a lot of fun – important fun!

Important fun because the end result will be vital support for some of our “Core” Outreach Causes – like Agape, Green Country Free Clinic, CONCERN, the School Supply Drive, and more. These wonderful and important ministries are no longer supported by our annual budget. Therefore we need to do everything we can to raise funds to make up the difference. In each case the money goes to help people far less fortunate than most of us at St. Luke’s. We need to make this a priority for each of us in terms of being there. Even more, we need to volunteer to help make this a success. This is beyond giving a donation – it is personal involvement to help others to participate and contribute. Together this can be huge.

One of the keys to success is inviting our friends to buy a ticket and sharing in the fun. Relying on members of our parish alone is not enough. We need people from the community to see how much fun we Episcopalians can be. The meal will be tasty and plentiful. The entertainment-packed evening will include music by Kilkenny Road, Contra Dancing and new stories from Fran Stallings – all donated talent and fun energy. In addition, Stonehenge Croquet, Street Booths, Sketch Artist, a special Bonfire at Sunset, and a St. Patrick Ring Toss (guess who is St. Patrick).

Originally Lynda and I had planned to be in Kansas City during the week of the 20th visiting our grandchildren (a new one is to be born soon on the 7th!). When we learned the Outreach Committee had chosen the 21st, the Summer Solstice, as a big fundraising celebration, we changed our plans. We wouldn’t want to miss this fun-packed event – and we are also committed personally and financially to the organizations/ministries we are seeking to support. So we have purchased our tickets and will encouraging our friends to do the same – and of course we are also volunteers.

We need a minimum of two hundred people at the celebration – four hundred would really make a difference. So, don’t wait – mark your calendar, buy your ticket, volunteer to help and invite your friends. We will have a great time together and touch the lives of many more.

Add the restoration of Joplin to the list. Thanks to the compassion and vision of the Outreach Committee, the funds raised at the Summer Solstice Celebration will be divided between local organizations who serve the poor and helping people in Joplin survive and rebuild. Personally, that means Lynda and I will want to donate more for these causes beyond our tickets and volunteer time.

Regarding Joplin and other communities hit by the tornados, the opportunities to help and support are many. Consider what else you can do. Lauri and Mike Watkins spent Sunday in Joplin helping with a restoration team. I understand if you can give as little as a day that would help. One St. Luke’s family went through their closets and came up with four big bags of clothes for people in Joplin. There are many avenues for helping financially which can be found in the new services and internet – and the Episcopal Relief and Development Fund – and now our Summer Solstice Celebration. And as we have done for the people in Japan, pray daily for those who suffer, grieve and rebuild in Joplin and communities in Oklahoma.

Note: several people have been concerned about the advertised “Palm Reading” at the celebration. This was just for fun and not to be taken seriously, but we have removed it from our publicity. Now, on with the fun!

Meanwhile, sermon topics are still being accepted. Let me hear from you.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Summer Solstice Celebration and Joplin

2011-05-31T22:43:00.001-05:00

St. Luke's Summer Solstice Celebration on June 21st has been expanded to include Joplin. This fundraiser to support local organizations who serve the poor will now include support for restoring Joplin. I am very pleased with our Outreach Committee's decision. This event will be a lot of fun and make a difference. Come and join us! Call 918-336-1212 for more information and tickets.

Storms, Shock and Faith from Here

2011-05-25T23:06:00.001-05:00

I continue to be overwhelmed by the growing number of images and stories from the storms. What has happened and what people are going through are beyond my imagination. While I don't expect God to stop these storms, I trust and believe God is present in loving, comforting and redeeming ways. I pray the victims will be aware the Presence in the midst of their shock and disbelief as well as the days of rebuilding.
Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Altar Guild and Joplin

2011-05-24T22:51:00.002-05:00

We had a great time tonight with St. Luke's Altar Guild coming to our home for dinner. What wonderful servants of Christ's Altar. These are remarkable women who faithfully support this central ministry of our parish. I am honored and blessed to work with them week after week. Wendy Hall concluded her two years as the Directress -- she has been exceptional. They still got home before the storm hit!

I'm glad they got home of course -- and the storm was relatively minor. I cannot help but think about the people in Joplin where things went very wrong. People there were having dinner -- going to WalMart -- enjoying graduation -- all that good and every day stuff of life -- then comes Hell -- that lasts and lasts. Life can be so unfair.

A fun and safe night for us -- continued pain and struggle in Joplin and other stricken places and people. May God help us all -- but especially those who are suffer.

A Prayer for Every Day from Joyce Rupp

2011-05-23T22:48:00.000-05:00

This is the prayer I used on Sunday by Joyce Rupp in May I Have This Dance?. I commend the prayer as good way to start each day.

Beloved Dancer of my Heart, thank you for being a faithful presence and a loving partner on my journey of life. Your grace-filled movements continually teach me fresh inner dance steps. You invite me to trust you more fully as you direct my whole self to the music of continual growth.

Remind me often that the more easily I glide along with you, the freer my heart becomes. When my days hold distress and discouragement, encourage me to draw near to you. Move me gently across the dance floor of my unwanted experiences. Twirl me around joyfully when my heart yields to the wonder and delight found in positive events, loving people and the beauty of life. Guide me through the unknown steps of confusion and mystery-laden transitions when I am not sure which way to move.

I will listen to your invitation as you daily invite me to join you in partnership. May my inner footsteps be ever more in sync with yours. Each day as your voice calls to me through the melody of your love, I will respond: “Yes, I want to be one with you, Beloved Dancer of my Heart. Come, be my partner. I will follow where you lead.” Amen.

Blessings, Fr. Lee+

Rapture, Storms and Oneness

2011-05-22T23:39:00.002-05:00

Poking fun at the Rapture Nonsense was fun today and putting things in perspective with Gospel from John 14 was meaningful -- Jesus' encouragement to live fully in the present trusting and believing -- and extending his Kingdom work now in our time.

Even so, I am deeply troubled by the news of yet another deadly storm -- this time close to home. I cannot imagine the hell people must be experiencing. I pray that "Oneness" will be even greater as people respond. Perhaps in the process we will learn more about the Way, Truth and Life. Even more, perhaps some day we will learn how to live that way without a crisis!

Christians and Yoga?

2010-10-10T20:51:00.002-05:00

I just read that the president of a Southern Baptist Seminary and Pat Robertson have said that Christians should not do Yoga. That may be a sign that I need to sign up.

I am suddenly proud that Yoga is offered at St. Luke's.
Peace,
Lee+

Prayer of St.Francis and Praying the Hours

2010-10-01T22:11:00.002-05:00

Having memorized prayers available can really be helpful in Praying the Hours. During a busy day, we may not have time to stop and spend time reading, reflecting and praying. A prayer like St. Francis'prayer can be prayed quietly in the heart and be wonderfully helpful in being aware of God's presence and our shared ministry with Christ.

Actually, this prayer has long been one of my favorites. For the last two years or so I have used this prayer as I am going to sleep. I start with remembering the "Graces of the Day" and then look forward with this prayer. I want to believe that Christ is shaping me even as I sleep for the opportunities waiting in the day to come.

Peace,
Lee+

Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury,pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen

Serenity Prayer and Praying the Hours

2010-09-27T22:31:00.002-05:00

The Serenity Prayer is favorite of many people -- especially the first four lines. These are easy to use in a brief time. The last segment is also interesting.

The Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;

Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

Praying the Hours -- Merton's Prayer

2010-09-26T22:42:00.002-05:00

Friends,
This is one of my favorite prayers which I have committed to memory. This can be used for any "Hour" or appropriate situation. I have called it the "Merton Prayer" but of course he wrote many prayers.

My Lord God,
I have no idea were I am going.
I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end.
Nor do I really understand myself,
and the fact that I think I am following
your will does not mean that I am actually doing so.
But I believe that the desire to please you
does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.
I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the
right road, though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore will I trust you always though I may
seem to be lost and in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and,
you will never leave me to face my troubles alone.
Amen.

Praying the Hours II

2010-09-23T23:09:00.000-05:00

Praying the Hours
Have you joined in the experiment? In last week’s sermon and newsletter (both are on St. Luke’s website), I invited everyone to try an age-old, but new to most of us, spiritual discipline of Praying the Hours.

In her book, sevensacredpauses, Sister Macrina describes how Praying the Hours has come to us through the monastic tradition. She readily admits that taking time to enter a church seven times a day plus the middle of the night isn’t realistic. Yet, marking the Hours of Prayer throughout the day in the midst of all that is happening can make us more mindful of God’s presence and the many graces of the day.

Since last week, I have changed my mind about the option of marking fewer than seven hours. We still have choices about how much time we spend with each “Hour,” but doing all seven can really help us be mindful, aware, loved and loving all day long. So, please do all seven – just take the time allowed by the actual time and situation. Use what works for you – thirty seconds, two minutes, five minutes, etc. Use a prayer, song, scripture, devotional – or simply be quiet for a time.

Remember, the Hours in simple terms are Before Dawn (getting out bed), Sunrise, 9:00, 12:00, 3:00, Sunset and Bedtime. It will take a while to remember each Hour and get in rhythm. If you forget, move on and don’t worry – God’s grace was there anyway. Just work at remembering – a pause or a little longer – and be mindful of God and the people and opportunities around you.

On Sunday I will have a prayer card for you as an option. This uses four of the Hours from The Book of Common Prayer with a few more added to make it seven. That may help some people get started. I will also make this available on my “Grace Notes” blog.

Let me know how this is going for you. I would like to know I have some company in this spiritual experiment – this journey.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Praying the Hours I

2010-09-22T23:07:00.000-05:00

The Spiritual Discipline Groups (morning and evening) are starting up again after taking the summer off. I was looking for a resource that would get us off to a good start – especially in renewing our daily spiritual disciplines. In the Discipleship Forum, Nancy Winters reviewed a wonderful little book by Sister Macrina Wiederkehr – sevensacredpauses -- “Living mindfully through the Hours of the day.” I had just been handed a gem!

Working toward the sermon for Sunday, I decided to invite the entire parish to an experiment in prayer – awareness – mindfulness – by praying the hours. Sound overwhelming? Well, Sister Macrina approaches this spiritual discipline with our busy lives in mind and leads us into the experiment in ways that do not interfere – just transforms our days.

I have been intrigued with Praying the Hours since my experiences at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, Georgia thirty-eight years ago. Several times along the way I have been reminded of this spiritual discipline which has been used for centuries by many religions – but especially in the Christian Tradition. While being attractive, the exercise never seemed practical until now.

More than that, Praying the Hours is a missing link in developing our spiritual life – going deeper – living every day and moment with an awareness of God/Christ in our midst. So, in addition to celebrating the Holy Eucharist every Sunday (or Monday in our case) and doing our Daily Discipline every day, I invite everyone to Pray the Hours.

In the coming weeks I will be writing and speaking about how to join in the experiment of Praying the Hours. Sister Macrina will be our guide, but the resources are many and I plan to point us toward a variety of possibilities.

Now, you don’t have to do all seven. The Jews use three times and the Shema is their primary prayer. People of the Islamic Faith pray five times a day. The monastic tradition includes eight hours for prayer which includes the middle of the night – not going to happen for most of us.

Sister Macrina suggests seven hours:
Vigils/The Night Watch (before sunrise – getting out of bed)
Lauds/The Awakening Hour (dawn)
Terce/The Blessing Hour (9:00)
Sext/The Hour of Illumination (12:00)
None/The Wisdom Hour (3:00)
Vespers/The Twilight Hour (sunset)
Compline/The Great Silence (bedtime).

Make it easy and don’t set yourself up to fail. Just use a prayer (written or memorized), a scripture, poem, song, psalm – anything you can do quietly for yourself. Take as much time as you want – thirty seconds, two minutes, five, etc. Just stop and breathe using your mind heart and soul. Then move on with your day aware that you are loved and God is ever present.

More another time.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Piedras Negras: Day Six and Home

2010-06-26T23:11:00.000-05:00

We are back – tired, but happy.

Last night we said goodbye to our team members from Birmingham. They are remarkable people: Jon, Melissa, Austin, Rebecca, Micah, Holly, Larry and Paul. We would relish the opportunity to work with them again.

I was reminded last night that Lauri and Jon called CPC on the same day saying they didn’t have enough people to make a team and needed to join with another church. God blessed that day and every day of our week working together – we became One.

Tonight I am especially grateful for my friends from St. Luke’s who made the commitment months ago and allowed Christ to use them to build a house for our family in Mexico. They made a difference for them – and they blessed me in the process.

Lauri Watkins – What a faithful and persistent servant of our Lord. Lauri is the one who first challenged us to build a house last year. As a result, she has been the Team Leader both years and has done very, very well. This year she doubled as our Food Coordinator. Perhaps her leadership is a foretaste of what she will be like when she is ordained a Deacon of the Church.

Steve Clark – Steve once again served as our Construction Coordinator and was his usual efficient, capable and faithful leader of the team – which included making two teams One. Steve has a passion for ministry for the poor and lives it in very tangible ways. This was a hard week for him with so many things happening in his family – he kept track of his family and kept things under control in building the house. Well done good and faithful servant.

Rick Wodnik – Rick was my roommate which gave me an opportunity to know him better. He is such a warm and thoughtful man of great heights (he is tall in size and spirit). This was his first time on team – but you would never have known it. He learned quickly and was always willing to do what he was asked – and more. Rick is a very special guy – I am so glad he was on the team and my roommate – and friend.

Dan Droege – Dan is a 5:30 Monday Eucharist member and a lot of people don’t know him. He is very well known in Bartlesville for his civic activities and is noticeably Christian in spirit. He has done a bit of everything along the way – and now he can add building a house in Piedras Negras to his list. He is a gentle giant (he is tall also) and he was eager to learn and work. There is something special about his spirit that causes the people around him to be both relaxed and focused. We were blessed to have him on the team.

Mike Watkins – I mention Mike separate from Lauri because both played important roles on the team. Mike is a steady; get it done kind of guy. He was always looking for ways to help others. You can always count on him to go the extra mile and smile while doing it. But there was something else that was important in Mike – he was always affirming others for their work each day – much needed support on those hot days.

Lisa Beeman – What a Lady! She brought her passion for helping others in building the house. She worked hard every day and yet with sensitivity that could bring tears without notice. Lisa is one of those persons who lives her spirituality by doing – by making a difference. We worked unsuccessfully on her punctuality, but we could always count on a big heart and solid work.

Karen Walters – Karen is new to St. Luke’s. By joining the team, she allowed us to know her and work side by side with her. And this Lady can work! What a good and faithful servant and co-worker – though there were also some “late issues” with her. Karen has the gift of engaging others in conversation in ways that invited people to share, think and laugh. I am glad she joined the team and became one of us.

Jim Grillot – Jim does more things around St. Luke’s than I can possibly list. He is faithful in so many ways. Having him on the team was both delightful and helpful. He can do many things and come up with alternate ways of getting things done – but he was a team-player and gave himself to the “CPC processes” with a helpful and thorough spirit. I don’t know what we would do without him.

Bob Wesneski – Bob is another one of those persons who has so many roles and does so many things for St. Luke’s. Yet, being with him on the team is so special. His dry sense of humor, willing spirit and hard work make him an essential to our work in Mexico. I cannot imagine going to Piedras Negras without him. He is special – truly a servant of our Lord who is there when you need him.

I could say so much more about each of them but space doesn’t allow – plus, some things are better left in Piedras Negras! Really, I am so grateful for the opportunity of working with each of these very special and committed friends of Christ – the Church – our CPC Family – and me. Please thank them when you see them.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Piedras Negras: Day Five

2010-06-25T21:46:00.000-05:00

The day of celebration is over and I am still flying high!

We spent the morning doing the touch up work and anticipating the blessing and celebration to come. Then it happened. We entered a “thin place” between Heaven and Earth – we were filled with the Sacred in time and space. We knew it would be good, but we had no idea how good it would truly be.

We gathered in the house to do all the things I mentioned yesterday – the liturgy of dedication with scripture, prayer, and music followed by the House Blessing and then the gifts – Spanish Bible, pictures of the team, the handprint banner, a new broom and a cross. Then we went out and planted an Orange Tree.

We started and it happened almost immediately. Alma, the wife and mother, got half way through the scripture reading in Spanish and broke down and wept tears of gratitude and joy. Her husband continued the reading, but there wasn’t a dry eye in the house from that point on. Yes, we built a house for them. And yes, this was an emotional time. But there was something more – an awareness of God’s love permeating the house and everyone there. We were blessed with that Sacred Presence the passes all understanding – and feelings. There was a remarkable oneness – so rare and so beautiful.

Words are not adequate to fully describe, much less explain, what happened. This I know – their lives will never be the same again – nor will ours. We are grateful for our special friends and the honor and privilege building their house:
Francisco Elisen Rebolloso (38)
Alma Leticia Guadalajara (39)
Jonhatan Rebolloso (16)
Sayda Rebolloso (14)

Tonight we had our Celebration Banquet along with the other teams – five houses were built this week. I was asked to provide a few remarks (not a sermon) and Holy Communion for everyone – I was humbled and honored. I concluded my brief homily by telling them “We call the prayer of consecration The Great Thanksgiving which means we are thanking God for the Love and Life provided for us in and through Jesus Christ. While that is still true, I am clear that God is also thanking us in this Holy Communion for being Christ to our families. “

Wow! Thanks be to God!

Now for rest. We leave at 5:00 in the morning.
Peace,
Lee+

Piedras Negras: Day Four

2010-06-24T22:06:00.000-05:00

What a day – long – hot – successful!

The roof went on as planned. The “chinking” went well – filling the spaces between the roof and the walls with broken concrete blocks and rocks. This is bound by cement filling and coating. Then everything is covered with the SBC (stucco). We have just a little to finish tomorrow. We will clean the house and the yard – and do a little touch up.

The family was out in force this afternoon (Mom and Dad were there all day). The son actually did a lot of sponging and was good at it. All of them were in the house as we left to day cleaning the floors. They are so very happy with their new home.

Tomorrow will be a day of celebration. There are several phases to our celebration with our family. We will all bless the keys to the house and give them to the family. There is a dedication ceremony which will include the blessing the new home – using one of our sponges. We will plant a tree using water from both the USA and Mexico. We will give the family a wall cross which was sent by Barbara Martin on behalf of St. Luke’s. Oh yes, we will exchange “handprint” banners with the family. After all that we will have lunch in the new home – likely take-out fried chicken.

We hope people back home will celebrate with us through your thoughts and prayers. Each of us feels honored that we had this opportunity to step outside of our usual life patterns and make a difference for this Mexican Family. God has truly blessed our work, our family and lives.

Peace,
Lee+

Piedras Negras: Day Three

2010-06-23T22:23:00.001-05:00

Today was delightful as well as hot.

This morning we poured the “bonding beam.” The blocks for the top layer are in the shape of a “U.” Rebar is place along the channel of the U all around the house and the three inside walls. Then in remarkable team fashion we poured the cement into the U using two teams going in opposite directions until they met again.

The family was given the honor of pouring first bucket of cement to start the process. Their faces were beaming with joy! And, our faces reflected the same joy. The “bonding beam” not only holds the house together, but also signifies the “bond” of Christ’s love that holds us together. Our lives will forever be held and shaped by our relationship with Christ who has been so very present with us and our relationship with our Mexican family which is growing.

This notion was reinforced this afternoon when we went by the house we built last year and saw the family. Sylvia and her children were so excited to see us and grateful all over again. Clearly, the house has changed their lives and blesses them every day and night. Yes, what we were privileged to do mattered to them – and now our new family.

We had the afternoon off so we spent a couple of hours at the Market. Hot and fun describes the experience. We bought “stuff” for people back home and supported the local economy. And, the second time in thirty-five years I drank a “Squirt” – the last time was a year ago at the same Market – so refreshing!

We took Alex, our staff supervisor, and Michael, our staff supervisor last year, with us to dinner tonight. These are incredible people – most of them college students – who are volunteers. They are there for most of the summer. What gifts they are to this ministry! They put in long hard hours every week because they care and believe they can make a difference one family at a time. They are amazing.

Tomorrow the roof panels go on the house – a hard day which will almost complete the house. Already we are asking, “What have we learned from this experience?” And, “Where do we go from here when we go home?”

You might want join us in asking the same questions for yourself.

Blessings,
Lee+

Piedras Negras: Day Two

2010-06-22T22:56:00.000-05:00

We had a good morning – hotter than yesterday, but tolerable. The last three “courses” are up and we will do the SBC this afternoon. The windows and doors are in place. I have never seen a happier and more helpful crew. Our friends from Birmingham are truly brothers and sisters to us now. They are special like my colleagues from St. Luke’s – very special.

During Morning Prayer this prayer was offered in Spanish and English:
God, our creator,
You have given us work to do
And call us to use our talents for the good of all.
Guide us as we work,
And teach us to live
In the Spirit who made us your sons and daughters,
In the love that made us sisters and brothers,
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

That sums up what is happening here as of siesta time.

The afternoon was a toasty 110 or so, but the work went like clockwork and we finished by 6:15. This was a night out for eating and all eighteen of us had a great time. The evening concluded with Compline. Mike Watkins said I needed to sit back and let him lead the liturgy – and I did.

Note of interest (at least to me): During lunch I had my phone with me so I could call Lynda (this trip isn’t easy for her – actually a sacrifice created by me). Anyway, I got a call from Dan Sharp, a Wesleyan pastor in Blackwell Oklahoma. I did a Bridges Out of Poverty Workshop for the Blackwell Ministerial Association several weeks ago. He called to tell me the group had met again and are excited about doing Bridges there – helping people move to self-sufficiency. They want me to come back and share Bridges with some of their business and city leaders.

Getting that call while here building a house for a poor Mexican family seemed right. I am reminded of the Starfish Story – it matters to each starfish one at a time. How much better if we can get more and more people in “saving the starfish” movement. And, I believe that is where Christ is calling us to be – person to person singing – “Will you let me be your servant? Will you let me be as Christ to you?”

With that tune in my head and spirit in my heart, I’m headed to bed – 5:00 comes early. Normally I hate getting up in the “fives” – but not here. I’ll be ready.

Blessings,
Lee+

Piedras Negras: Day One

2010-06-21T22:11:00.000-05:00

This morning we circled up in the parking lot beside the “Big Tent” for prayer and instruction. The sky was clear and the stars were bright. Spirits were high.

Little did we know how good a morning it would be. First, the weather was cool by last year’s standards. Clouds moved in to shield us from the sun. At one point, about 10:00, I checked my iPhone. The temperature in Bartlesville was 86 and it was only 79 here. By the time we left the site at 12:15 it was up to 94 here.

Second, the work went amazingly well. Last year we were all “new-bees” and there was a lot of “what do we do now?” This year the experienced members of the team set to work and our “new-bees” caught on quickly. Yes, we still had to move 900 concrete blocks and put up eight layers, but it all went smoothly.

And, there was a great spirit in the group. Morning Prayer with our Mexican couple was a good start. Everything was said in both Spanish and English. That set the tone for the day. Christ was so very present!

Now the evening report: HOT! Following our two and a half lunch and siesta break, we headed back to the sight – 110 degrees! What a change from the morning. No one complained – this is just part of the experience. We are required to drink every thirty minutes alternating between water and “quick fix” (I think that is what it is called – a mixture of water, orange juice and salt).

The afternoon was given to putting SBC (stucco-type mix) on both sides of all the walls. The process is messy and involves constantly spraying the blocks, spreading the SBC, sponging everything smooth and constantly spraying water to let the SBC cure slowly. Needless to say, we were all beat when we got back at 7:15 – followed by dinner at 8:00 – then devotional time.

The image of the day came as we were cleaning up at the site and preparing to leave. Our family – the couple and their children – and a few other family members unknown to us – gathered in the front yard and were clearly happy. They were all smiles. We didn’t need to know Spanish to understand the meaning of the moment – and this is just the beginning. I can hardly wait for the dedication of the house.

I saw Christ today in many ways – in the interaction between our folks and the new friends from Birmingham – we truly became a team – and close friendships are beginning to develop. Christ was evident in the staff as we learned how this work is a part of their spiritual journeys. Of course Christ was beaming in the faces of our family – we are truly serving Christ in them!

How did you experience Christ today?

Blessings,
Lee+

Piedras Negras -- We are here!

2010-06-20T21:39:00.000-05:00

We are here and ready!

The morning began with the Holy Eucharist and the Anointing of Hands. We were joined by our new friends to fill out our team. I do have a correction to make – they are not Methodists! They are Presbyterians from Birmingham. As best as I can tell they are not hard-line “Calvinists” and that is a good thing. Anglicans never got a long with those folks very well, but we are in luck – these are great people. We will work well together.

We stopped at Eagles’ Pass for supplies and lunch which is right on the border across from Piedras Negras. Unlike last year we turned down the main business road toward WalMart and discover a beautiful mall, many additional retail stores and restaurants. They have way more than Bartlesville!

The crossing into Mexico was interesting this year. I was in the van which was pulling our trailer of luggage, tools and supplies. The authorities pulled us over to inspect the trailer. As Bob and Steve opened the door, they told them we were with Constructores Para Cristo (CPC). The guards nodded approvingly and said they could go. CPC is known for its work in Piedras Negras – after all they have built over six hundred houses.

We got our room assignments and got moved about 4:00 which was followed by the orientation meeting. There are five teams this week so the big tent was full. The teams are from Tulsa, Washington State, North Carolina (2), Alabama/Bartlesville. We were crowded, hot and happy – eager to work.

We know a little about our family. There is a husband, wife and two children (12 & 15) listed, but there is also a young girl in the picture with the parents. Several team members went by the site with our staff supervisor, Alex. The family is living on the property in a tent and a tarp. They meet the couple – and noticed an older woman was in the tent – perhaps a mother. We will learn more tomorrow.

Breakfast in the morning is at 6:00 and we head out at 7:00. After Morning Prayer with our family, we will start moving the cement blocks on to the pad. Then the walls start up using four teams for outside walls and one on the inside walls. Big, big day – and we are ready!

Blessings,
Lee+

Piedras Negras Here We Come!

2010-06-19T22:37:00.000-05:00

We are on our way to Piedras Negras, Mexico to build a house. This year is a bit different. We have ten members of St. Luke’s on the team and we will be joined by nine Methodists from Birmingham. This will add another dimension to our work and should be a lot of fun building new relationships even as we build the house.

I met with our group at the church this morning at 6:00 for loading the trailer and van as well as the Watkins’ car. Then my friends hit the road while I stayed behind for Cheryl Babcock’s funeral. I left immediately after the service to grab a bite to eat and head for Tulsa to catch a plane. Steve Forsythe called me Thursday when he learned of my schedule and volunteered to drive me to Tulsa – what a guy!

So, I was off to Dallas and then on to San Antonio where we were to spend the night at the Airport Comfort Inn. My taxi and our two vehicles arrived at the same time – at the wrong hotel. Seems that about five Comfort Inns claim to be the Airport Comfort Inn – and our reservations were found on the other side of downtown San Antonio! Go figure!

But we are an easy group and took it in stride even without time for a nap. So we were off to dinner as some highly rated seafood restaurant which Lisa had found on her Blackberry or whatever – eight miles away. While we had to order like we were at McDonalds and then go to a pick up window, the food was pretty good – mostly fried, but we will work it off next week.

We had a great time together and that was important. Everyone seems to like everyone and is anxious to build a house together. Frankly, I felt honored to be in their presence and a part of the team. The joy and commitment were evident.

On the way back to the hotel we seemed to be going in circles over much of San Antonio, but it was dark and you couldn’t see anything. Seems like the eight miles back was more like sixty-four. I was sitting in the back of the van burping my fried seafood platter with every bump. I best guess is that Jim Grillot, who was driving, was having a fight with his GPS and I’m still not sure who won.

Tomorrow we will celebrate the Holy Eucharist, have the anointing of the hands and head south. Pray for us.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Two Stories of Contrasts and Common Themes

2010-06-15T22:36:00.001-05:00

The two stories are very different, but there are some common themes.

Yesterday, Lynda, my wife, played remarkably well in a Mozart-plus recital with Rachel Hammon. They are quite a duo and the music was as fine as you will hear anywhere. Lynda’s fingers were flying across the piano keys in ways they leave you with amazement. But most importantly, music was experienced throughout the performance.

Just a year ago Lynda had a serious and painful surgery which involved the removal of her first right rib and the surrounding scar tissue. Because of pressure on a major nerve and artery to her arm and hand, she could no longer play the piano – her God-given gift of music. We were afraid she would never play again. A doctor in Dallas did this unusual surgery and provided hope. The recovery was long and incredibly painful.

Through out this ordeal, as with previous challenges to Lynda’s health, our Parish Family was there for her – for us. The prayers, words of encouragement and acts of kindness flowed around, over and through us constantly. You loved Lynda back to health and music. The performance yesterday was not only a triumph for her but also a tribute to a host of friends who have been there for her through the years, but especially in the last twelve months.

One could say this happened because she is a “high profile” person in our parish as wife of the Rector. In part that may be true, but let me tell you about Gail.

This afternoon I will preside at a Requiem Mass for Gail Campus and place her ashes in St. Luke’s Memorial Garden. Most of you don’t Gail. She was confirmed three years ago and on Sundays sat near the back of the Nave. She loved the weekly celebration of the Holy Eucharist which she experienced as encouragement and love.

When Gail first came to us, she was an abused and broken person. Life was absolutely miserable and without hope. A friend from where she had worked suggested she try attending St. Luke’s and talking with the priest. “With Arms Wide Open” our parish welcomed her. Almost immediately she felt at home here and the healing began. Over and over she told me how loving our parish is and how she was so glad she found us.

Unfortunately, Gail developed a rare cancer which gradually took her life. Yet, Life had become much bigger for her – a Life of Faith – anchored by the Holy Eucharist – grounded in St. Luke’s Parish Family. She died knowing she was loved.

Yes, two very different stories with very common themes in an uncommon parish. Thanks be to God!

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

A must read from Bill Sherman at the Tulsa World

2010-05-23T22:11:00.003-05:00

Below is an incredible story by Bill Sherman of the Tulsa World about Frank Schaeffer and his "conversion." I find the timing with the Feast of Pentecost to be more than a little ironic and hopeful. Enjoy.

Evangelical worlds apart

by: BILL SHERMAN World Religion Writer
Saturday, May 22, 2010
5/22/2010 4:10:56 AM

The son of Francis Schaeffer, one of the most influential evangelical theologians of the last century, is now a sharp critic of the evangelical world in which he was raised.

Best-selling novelist Frank Schaeffer grew up in the shadow of his father in L'Abri, a Christian community in Switzerland that drew thousands of young seekers from around the world.

His father's fame brought him into contact with top Christian and political leaders, and he went on to become a poster child for the evangelical movement.

Then, in his 30s, he left the evangelical world, later joining the Eastern Orthodox church.

He tells the story in his book, "Crazy for God: How I Grew Up As One of the Elect, Helped Found the Religious Right and Lived to Take All (or Almost All) of It Back."

Schaeffer spoke Thursday night at the annual meeting of the Tulsa Interfaith Alliance, held at All Souls Unitarian Church. Below is an edited version of an interview earlier that day:

Do you consider yourself a born-again Christian?

I grew up in a family where the quote-unquote, born-again experience was minimized. Dad did not preach the born-again experience in the way some evangelicals do. He would have said that is a very typically American frontier religion, something new to Protestant Christianity. Martin Luther and John Calvin would not have known what you were talking about.

That said, I was a very sincere believer as a child.

What is your position on the authority of Scripture?

I believe that the holy mysteries are really holy mysteries and one of them is the balance between the revelation of God through Scripture and the fact that we can't actually make an intellectual construct of who God is.

Most theology, to be perfectly honest, is just people making excuses for a God they don't fully understand and trying to figure out how things work. Which is fine, but let's not mistake our words about God for actually knowing about God.

Do you still agree with your father's theology?

People think that I've shifted my opinion, and in some ways I have, but in other ways, I'm still very much my dad's son.

I find his cultural analysis very pertinent. For example, the bankruptcy of the extreme left he saw very clearly, with people like Pol Pot and Mao Zedong and others.

He was a better man than his theology. For example, on the issue of homosexuality, he had a right-wing position. In practice, gay people were completely welcomed in L'Abri. He treated them with tremendous compassion and openness.

He could never be identified with the Jerry Falwells and the Pat Robertsons and the Anita Bryants.

When Anita Bryant came to his house for lunch to enlist his help in her campaign to ban gays from teaching in schools, he actually threw her out of the house because he thought she was so uncompassionate and un-Christ-like.

Only on the issue of abortion did his views overlap with the religious right. On every other issue, he was a progressive.

Why did you begin to doubt the validity of the evangelical world view?

My own journey away from my background in some ways has a lot less to do with faith than it has to do with politics. In the latter part of my father's life, we got lumped into what came to be known as the religious right because of our involvement in the Protestant pro-life movement, which he and I were very instrumental in beginning through book projects like, "How Then Shall We Live."

I was the keynote speaker at the Southern Baptist Convention and the National Religious Broadcasters convention. Jerry Falwell lent me his jet to fly around the country.

In the mid-1980s, I realized I didn't really belong there. I'd seen the inside of the machine.

When I got out, it was not a theological statement, saying I no longer believe this. It was actually to save my soul, in that I was going to become one of these flakes who is chasing power and money. It wasn't where my heart was at.

I just left. I said, I'm a Christian. I'm trying to follow Christ. What I'm not going to be is an evangelical leader. This is not my deal. Whatever this is, it is wrecking my life. For me, the path to atheism was Christian leadership.

Are you still pro-life?

Yes and no. Yes, in that I believe that a human life is a sacred thing. No, in that I don't think the answer to having fewer abortions is necessarily a legal and political one. I think it's one where we create a climate that appreciates life and helps women and helps families in a practical sense.

I voted for Barack Obama believing that some of his social programs would actually do more to help people not have abortions than all the talk from pro-life Republicans, who in 35 years of dominating American politics, never actually did much for people other than say they were against abortion.

Why did you join the Eastern Orthodox Church?

For a while I did nothing, but eventually I realized I was a religious person, a believer, and I wanted to go to church somewhere on Sunday.

I felt more comfortable with a more liturgical, less personality-based form of worship. I like the noncommercial, nonentertainment culture. Quieter, less rationalistic. A lot of that is just personal taste. I don't say anybody else is wrong.

You've called today's religious right dangerous. More than half of Oklahomans self-identify as evangelicals. Are you calling them dangerous?

No, not at all. Where evangelicals are dangerous is not as individuals but as a bloc, voting for the wrong people for the wrong reasons.

They're dangerous because they simplify politics down to a couple issues.

I think the evangelical community, in terms of politics, has really painted itself into a corner. It's very dangerous to have a series of moralistic litmus tests that you apply to people on the basis of voting.

For instance, having had a son in the Marine Corps getting shot at in Afghanistan, I look at who the commander in chief is, and I have a lot more at stake than how he votes on gay rights and abortion. I'd like to know, is he competent? Is he intelligent? Is he decent? Is he honest? Will he govern well? Is he going to make a good commander in chief?

I fault the evangelical leaders like James Dobson, who so narrow their focus to a few moral issues that we have consistently voted for some very mediocre or worse leadership.

I'm not saying the left doesn't do the same thing. Both have their litmus tests. But evangelicals give it that religious fervor, which has really hurt our country. It's just crazy.

Are you still happy with Barack Obama?

Yes I am. I think health-care reform is necessary. I think he has conducted the war far better than George W. Bush. He's a much better commander in chief than Bush. I think the Republicans are in for a nasty surprise in November.

Are you concerned about the tea party movement?

No. I'm just concerned when people vote with religious fervor on nonreligious issues. Not everything is a moral crusade.

I'm concerned about nonfact-based discussions. Barack Obama is not the anti-Christ. He was not born on a different planet. If policy gets discussed in those kinds of crazy terms, we're in real trouble.

There's just been too much nonsense coming from the far right, which reminds me, by the way, of the tone and debate that came from the left during the '60s and '70s. We're living in an age of right-wing radicalism that is just as anti-American, if not more so, fundamentally hating this country, as what came from the left in the late '60s. It's that same shrill demonizing of the opposition.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill Sherman 581-8398
bill.sherman@tulsaworld.com

Moving the Mountain in Grove and McPherson

2010-05-20T22:17:00.002-05:00

This has been a Bridges and Circles Day for me and I am still pumped!

This morning I did a Bridges Out of Poverty Workshop in Grove -- what an eager bunch! They are excited about the possibilities of actually helping people out of poverty to a better way of life -- to self-sufficiency. As happens so often, they were over-flowing with compassion -- a desire to make a difference. I was honored to be asked to be there and help turn that into "informed compassion." They were incredibly responsive. They are already planning to send at least two people for training in Bridges and Getting Ahead. Part of their plans include making this a "four-county" initiative. I look forward to seeing what happens in Grove.

I got home in time for the Getting Ahead/Circles "Big View" meeting (which went very well). When I got there I met seven people from McPherson, Kansas who were in Bartlesville to find out more about Bridges and Circles. What a group! They are so eager to get things going in their hometown -- and they will do well. And, if they had any doubts coming in to tonight, they are talking all the way home about what they experienced here and what they are going to do when they get home. I will be watching them too.

I am amazed at how the news of Bridges Out of Poverty/Getting Ahead and Move the Mountain/Circles seems to be catching on. People really do want to make a difference and now we have a way of truly breaking the cycle of generational poverty and helping people. What a privilege to be a part of this movement.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Wesleyans and Episcopalians

2010-05-12T22:49:00.002-05:00

My wife, Lynda, plays for the Oklahoma Wesleyan University Chorale and they are completing a six day and eleven concert tour in central Oklahoma. I have been her driver, logistics coordinator and happy servant. That's a good change of pace for me. Part of my role has been to stay in the background and present only as needed.

This has been particularly interesting with my "normal" life as an Episcopal priest. I enjoy the music and the students, but never bring up what I do (they already know) or mention anything theological or biblical -- unless they ask -- and they have not asked a thing.

I have met each of the pastors in the churches where the Chorale has sung, but the same rules applied. I don't volunteer or initiate anything. Most have not been interested enough to ask me anything -- and I was not disappointed. However, three of the Wesleyan pastors asked me about my profession. I admitted being an Episcopal "pastor" -- and all three responded with enthusiastic acceptance -- and began to share stories of knowing and working with Episcopalians in the past.

In each instance the conversation went on for quite a while as we shared stories and views about liturgy, sacraments, reaching out to the poor, the future of the Church, etc. We didn't venture into the "hot-button" issues. Instead the focus was on worship and ministry. Frankly, I was invigorated by the conversations.

Why do I mention this? Well, in some Wesleyan circles around here being an Episcopalian is not acceptable -- quite the contrary. So, I love it when I get a glimpse of "Christ's Church" through the eyes of someone who is considered very different -- and realize that is happening for them in me. Now that is a God event. Isn't that the way it is supposed to be?

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Celiac Friends -- Attention!

2010-05-11T22:36:00.002-05:00

Check out www.wholesomefoodbakery.com -- What a great venture by two friends! Anne and Taylor have just started this gluten-free enterprise. They are working to get an article in the Dallas Morning News and needed comments to the editor. What follows is my effort to encourage to the editor and congratulate my friends.

As an Episcopal Priest I am increasingly aware of people needing gluten-free food -- including Communion Bread. Now I am telling all my "celiac friends" about Wholesome Foods Bakery. Ordering online is a great way to get the gluten-free food they need no matter where they live.

I know Anne and Taylor personally and they are a dynamic duo -- some of my favorite people. They have always been enthusiastic in their endeavors, but this joint effort is full of purpose as well as creative energy that will benefit many people.

Congratulations ladies! And, thanks to Gretchen, the matriarch of the family who gave them good genes and life lessons and values which have served them well.

Fr.Lee+

National (Limited) Day of Prayer

2010-05-10T22:06:00.000-05:00

National/Limited Day of Prayer
Last Thursday was the “National Day of Prayer.” There had been yet another “hubbub” (is that a word?) about this event – just enough for people to get upset – again. The one for Bartlesville was held in the OWU Chapel. I knew what that likely meant, but I needed to go anyway and I promised myself I would pray.

What does “national” in “National Day of Prayer” mean to you? I guess that depends on the person or persons who organize the event. On this occasion only Christians participated – no representation on the program from other religions found in Bartlesville. No surprise there. I didn’t recognize anyone from the downtown churches either – except for the pianist/vocalist. More to the point, I am not aware of anyone from a Mainline church or Catholic church on the program of prayer leaders.

Even more to the point, as best as I could tell everyone on the platform was from the conservative Evangelical dimension of the Christian realm of World Religions. I am grateful that they pray, but that is no surprise. I just found the scene a bit peculiar and very limiting to be under the banner of “national” and of Bartlesville.

Perhaps next year someone should have a rival National Prayer Day observance in Bartlesville and make it open and inclusive. Or, I could do an attitude check and just keep praying every day for all of us. We already have enough rivalry and judgmentalism going on. All the while, more and more people are becoming disillusioned and turned off by the Church – and who could blame them?

The answer: Christ-love. Authentic and unrelenting Christ-love.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Christ-love -- The Way of Christ -- and Us

2010-05-09T21:28:00.000-05:00

I don’t want to be redundant in going from Sunday’s sermon to my Steeple column (last week), but I confess that I am struggling and frustrated with this whole business of “love” in our Christian faith and culture. I think that even the notion of “grace” has become so diluted that the meaning is often lost not only for us but for those who watch us. Too often “grace” comes with strings attached which in fact makes it something less than grace.

Of course part of the problem is the English language. “Love” can mean most anything in today’s world – at least in our language. This can range from a profound gift to another person to a shallow expression that means little to sheer manipulation. Sometimes the context or the inflection can provide clues to the actual kind of love being conveyed. Who gets the “payoff” is also a clue. Of course integrity and consistency of word and action helps to verify the love being voiced.

As I mentioned on Sunday, love in the Greek language, the language of the New Testament, has four different words. Simply stated and defined as:
a. Eros – instinct, attraction, sensual, passionate, romantic and sexual
b. Storge – natural affection in family relationships
c. Philia – family, friends, colleague, kinsmenship
d. Agape – unconditional, grace, gift with no strings

Of course the last, agape, is used to refer to God’s love, Christ’s love and Christian love. This is the Greek word used for example in the Love Chapter, First Corinthians 13, and most frequently in the Gospels. The English translation as simply “love” allows the lesser shades of meaning to make it seem less than it is.

That is why I am starting to appreciate more and more the expression “Christ-Love” for Agape Love or Christian Love. Sunday’s Gospel from the 13th chapter of John makes the definition clear from Christ’s perspective. Jesus said love one another as I have loved you – that is “Christ-Love”! This was Jesus’ way of being in the world – he loved as he was loved by God – “God-love.” Now he now invites us to do the same from us – invites? – expects? – demands? In truth it should come quite naturally out of our “Christ-Love” relationship with him.

I am also impressed by Jesus’ closing sentence in this Gospel – “By this everyone will know you are my disciples.” What a difference it would make if we were known for our Christ-Love for others! People would see it – believe it – and want to share in that way of life. This would do wonders to restore the image and credibility of the Church today. The need has never been greater.

I want be known as a person and priest who lives with Christ-Love with everyone I meet. In turn, I want St. Luke’s to be a parish known for the Christ-Love exhibited in everything we do – in every facet of our lives. Is this too high a standard? How much less would be acceptable?

How much less can we “love” others than Christ loves us? Only the Way of Christ-Love will do.

Blessings,
Lee+

Responding Is Important

2010-04-29T22:20:00.003-05:00

The conversation continues with only my side, because I don't have permission from my friend to print his email. You can guess what he has said. I believe we have a responsibility to respond to people and not let things pass -- which actually leaves the impression we agree with them.

Dear Friend,
I read with interest your response. What I found most interesting is what appeared to be a disconnect in what you said at the beginning of your response from what came at the end regarding poverty. Bridges Out of Poverty takes Ruby Payne's Framework for Poverty and shows how the "theory" can be applied in helping people out of generational poverty to self-sufficiency. And, it works!

They/we have linked Bridges with Move the Mountain's Circles Campaign (movethemountain.org) and are joining others across the country to eliminate poverty one family at a time. We are already seeing the results in Bartlesville and other places in Oklahoma are catching on.

This is not throwing money at the problem, but drawing upon one of our nation's strengths -- helping one another. This requires a will to understand, informed compassion and a determination to make a difference for those trapped in generational poverty -- in other words personal investment in others.

To say the poor here have it better than the poor in other countries is like comparing apples and oranges -- horribly unfair. Our country does do more than any other in helping the poor around the world. At the same time we have allowed generational poverty to quietly expand as people struggle with little hope and children in each generation grow up knowing nothing different. We can change that -- if we will to do it.

Generational Poverty is the slavery of today.

You missed the point regarding Jesus. Remember where Jesus spent much of his time and energy -- it wasn't with people like us -- though he held us accountable to love others as he has loved us. That involves going where he goes and doing what he does now. Too often, Christians have made Jesus as someone very different and normalized in keeping with our wants, needs and class.

I find the notion that the Constitution is divinely inspired is an interesting and unsettling thought. I love our country and I/we are fortunate to have been born here -- and in a class with "a future story." But clearly, it doesn't work equally for everyone -- never has -- is less so now -- and with the way things are going it will be less in the future -- unless we unite in a positive and compassionate and informed way to make a difference.

I stand by what I said about the Episcopal Church -- you can't find better -- though we can be better as a Church.

As for the Tea Party, we will see. So far I'm not impressed and frankly turned off by the rhetoric and concerned about the direction the implications for the Christian faith and "the least of our brothers and sisters among us."

I'm glad you are so involved in your church. May the Sacrament of Christ make you sacrament to others.

Peace,
Lee+

The Constitution, Christianity, Jesus and the Episcopal Church

2010-04-27T22:30:00.004-05:00

This is my response to a friend's email. I don't have permission to print his part, but here is my response. I think you can guess most of what he said.

Friend,
Neither party is very clean when it comes to the extremes. Who is the most "egregious" may be judged/slanted by one's political perspective and/or the issues being discussed. What I do know is that while the middle class may be shrinking (this may have more to do with expectations), but what is very clear is the growing gap between the rich and the poor --the haves and have nots. And, money isn't the answer -- or at least the only answer. You can pour money in programs and people and/or make demands with punitive threats (both have been done) -- the results continue to be more pain and vain compassion.

If we are going to speak of Christianity and the Bible, I would remind you where Jesus stood in all of this in his day. He went to the poor and marginalized -- not to leave them there, but to show them a better way of life and expose those of particular religious and political powers for their misuse and abuse of people less fortunate. And, while the economic, political and institutional landscape has change in two thousand years, the principles remain the same. Unfortunately they have been diluted by many Christian churches and caused more and more people to become disillusioned with the church and consider it irrelevant. We need to join with the Risen Christ in recentering the Church and take the message to the least of our brothers and sisters.

If you want to reference the U.S. Constitution, that's fine -- I place a secondary value there just under my Christian faith. In establishing and living with the Constitution, there have always been those who suffered even as others prospered in our beloved nation. We have had to wrestle in every generation with how to make life equal for everyone. That always creates tension and sometimes hostility and even war.

As for the Episcopal Church, I am pleased with the fact that the Church has often championed the poor, oppressed and marginalized in the name of Jesus Christ. That is both Christian and Biblical. Not to speak the Gospel concerning social and economic justice would make is less Christian -- even if we had more members. We aren't perfect, but I cannot find any other Church that holds all of this in balance and tension as well as the Episcopal Church.

I am as concerned about the national debt as anyone. Demonizing people, especially our President, is not helpful. Recognizing that a lot of factors have contributed this mess and that both parties are contributors, is important. What is even more important is doing something, in a positive way, to make a difference. Make a personal investment. Doing the "ain't it awful" and blame games gets us no where except angrier and more divided.

I have found Bartlesville's Building Bridges initiative in working with the poor, which is spreading across the country, to be something we can do to change people's lives, reduce welfare costs and improve the economy -- and all the while do it in the spirit of Christ. Check out Bridges Out of Poverty and Move the Mountain. Join us in making a difference from the bottom up -- and by the way, it will change you -- it will change our country.

How is that for a sermon? Unfortunately, many don't want to hear it. As of now, St. Luke's EPISCOPAL church is an exception. The number of people personally involved is amazing and growing. We are known as a church in Bartlesville that is reaching out to everyone in the name of Christ and making a difference. I rather like that.

Good to hear from you. Now back to work.

Peace,
Lee+

Getting Adhead Graduate Evangelist

2010-04-25T22:21:00.003-05:00

Frank was obviously excited when he approached me a the Coffee Hour this morning. He wanted to sign up for the Bridges Out of Poverty Workshop for Tuesday night. I asked him what brought that on and he was eager to tell.

He said he went by the Getting Ahead Graduation Dinner early last Thursday evening so he could see how the food was being served -- our men's group will prepare and serve the dinner this Thursday. In the process he met Wanda -- one of the graduates.

Frank said she was excited about all the changes in her life. She then told her story to Frank -- including how she was starting her own business. This will include using Tri-county Tech to help her. Wanda became an inspiration for my friend.

I had been telling Frank and others in the Men Fellowship about Building Bridges. When Frank talked with Wanda he realized what a difference Bridges was making in the lives of people wanting out of the poverty trap and learning how to be self-sufficient. Now he wants to know how it works and will be at the Bridges Out of Poverty Workshop Tuesday night.

I love it.
Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Reflections on Success

2010-04-23T22:57:00.002-05:00

Last night Bartlesville's Building Bridges, a movement to assist people trapped in generational poverty move to self-sufficency,celebrated the graduation of eleven people from Getting Ahead. This twenty-week study helps participants change their way of doing life -- to create their future story and learn how to make it happen. Now they will be Circle Leaders, surrounded by a support system and community, for eighteen months to make what they have learned into a way of life -- a life of self-sufficiency and fulfilment.

We have every reason to believe their lives will never be the same again. When you hear their stories of where they have been, where they are now and where they are headed -- you know something wonderful is happening.

When the celebration was over last night, it suddenly occured to me we would be doing this again in twenty weeks. Next week we will start three new Getting Ahead classes totaling thirty-nine participants. Can you imagine what a celebration that will be? I mean -- that will be bigger than HUGE!

It is possible that in five months we will have fifty people who have moved beyond poverty to new life with a future.

Who wouldn't want to be a part of this movement?

Peace,
Lee+

Building Bridges Works

2010-04-23T00:11:00.002-05:00

This is my column for this week's "Steeple," but there is some interesting information and an invitation.

Bartlesville’s Building Bridges “kickoff” is this Thursday, April 22nd – which people will have missed by the time you get this newsletter. You may have read something in the newspaper about it. In truth it began last September with the first workshop on Building Bridges Out of Poverty and the beginning of the first two Getting Ahead classes. And all of this has been in the making for years through a variety of efforts including the Poverty Alleviation Coalition. So, what we are really celebrating is the growing momentum in assisting people in generational poverty move toward self-sufficiency in Bartlesville. A growing number of people are seeing the results and benefits of Building Bridges and that is exciting.

Measurable results of this work across the country are starting to come in where both Getting Ahead and Circles programs are being utilized. Getting Ahead is a twenty-week program for teaching people in poverty how to move toward self-sufficiency. Circles provide a context for people to put what they have learned into daily life over an extended time of eighteen months. The Circle Leaders are supported and encouraged by Allies (friends, mentors, coaches) and other people in the community who help them fulfill their “future plan.”

So for example, thirty-three families in one community who completed Getting Ahead and have been Circle Leaders for six months has documented these results:
1. 54% of the Circle Leaders indicated they had obtained a better paying job.
2. There was an average increase of 88% in earned income.
3. 30% decrease in use of welfare benefits.
4. 56% increase in assets.
5. 125% increase in “people in my life I can count on.”

The pilot project in Bartlesville’s Building Bridges is showing the similar promising benefits in two Getting Ahead classes though the final results have not been completed. We know there was an average increase in income of $548 per month in one class. Payday loans were paid off and credit card debt significantly reduced. Savings were established and growing. There was an increase in job retention. Most importantly, participants (Investigators) reported having a “new mindset” in doing life in better ways.

I have been involved and will continue to be for two primary reasons. First, I have long wanted to go beyond helping the poor (compassionate maintenance) to assisting people in poverty move to self-sufficiency. I believe Building Bridges works through “informed compassion” and is limited only our level of willingness to be personally involved. Second, my desire to follow Jesus Christ takes me where I believe his ministry would be and is focused today. My personal spirituality rings true only when this endeavor is part of how I invest my life and ministry.

I laugh when I hear Scott Miller of Move the Mountain and Circles talk about eliminating poverty in the United States in our lifetime. I am not a believer. But what if we were only twenty-five percent successful – that would be huge! If you want to know about all of this, whether you want to be involved or not, come to the Bridges Out of Poverty Workshop on Tuesday, April 27th, 6:00-8:30, at the Washington County Health Department. Write or call me to sign up or to ask questions. This is worthy and it works!

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Building Bridges -- a Winner and Hope for All

2010-04-22T23:57:00.001-05:00

Tonight was the Kickoff for Bartlesville’s Building Bridges. “Kickoff” is a bit misleading. We had our first workshop on “Bridges Out of Poverty” in September of last year and Scott Miller of Move the Mountain was here the first of October. There have been many “Bridges” workshops and presentations since then. Plus, we had our first two Getting Ahead Classes and this was graduation night.

Actually, I think we have just completed what baseball would call the “Exhibition Season” and our Getting Ahead Graduates and all the volunteers have demonstrated that Building Bridges is a winner in Bartlesville! This “kickoff” means full steam ahead in making life better person by person.

I have been a minister of forty years. Each church I have served has placed a high value in supporting people trapped in poverty. Along the way I increasingly realized that we were only “maintaining” people in poverty – helping the tread water day after day – lots of compassion but little understanding. I tried several approaches to helping people move from poverty to self-sufficiency, but with only marginal success.

I have been wandering in the wilderness for forty years…but now I have seen the Promised Land! Building Bridges works!!!

We have Bridges Out of Poverty and Getting Ahead on one hand and Move the Mountain and the Circles Campaign on the other. One provides a framework for understanding poverty beyond anything we have known before. The other gives us a process for equipping, enabling and empowering people for a better way of life through self-sufficiency. This combination of “informed compassion” and a strategy that changes lives makes Building Bridges a winner.

This is not a “hand out” or even a “hand up.” This is linking hands so we can walk together, work together – win together.

Scott Miller of Move the Mountain who was the next speaker likes to say we can end poverty in our life time. I am not a believer. I love the vision, but I’m not there. Having said that, if we were even thirty percent successful in assisting people out of poverty that would be HUGE! And, if that happened, the momentum would be so great – who knows – maybe we could do it. Through Building Bridges and people like the graduates and the other hundred or so people who gathered for the kickoff, there is hope like I have never experienced before. We have only just begun – and what a beginning!

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Happy New and Here We Go

2010-01-01T23:08:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year everyone! I like saying that while we are still in the Christmas Season -- people don't seem to appreciate "Merry Christmas" at this late date -- much less "Blessed Christmas" which makes me seem not only crazy but a fanatic as well. Soon it will be Happy Epiphany!

And, what a blessed Christmas it was and is. Should we have called off Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Eucharists? I figure as long as I can get there, I will enjoy and serve those who come. People have to decide for themselves if it is right and safe for them -- no judgments on my part.

This will go down in the books as a very, very white Christmas which changed a lot of plans and made things difficult. However, the beauty was striking -- wasn't it -- peaceful and holy. And, the three Eucharists were very special -- each different -- each meaningful -- each full of joy and peace. I will never forget the Christmas of 2009.

And so, on to a New Year. Last year was special in so many ways. But then, each year is special in unique ways. The constant is God's presence in the journey day by day and month by month. I understand and trust that now more than ever. Living into God's presence provides a stability, centering and energy which I need and call grace for the journey.

This year is guaranteed different for Lynda and me. I turn a significant page in my chronological journey. And, in the morning we will load up Lynda's Mother and take her to Bartlesville to live with us. This is a good and important thing -- but what a change in life for each of us. I have and I still trust that God is in the process. And, when we welcome another New Year twelve months from now, I will give thanks again -- I just don't know the specifics. That's all part of the challenge and fun.

Last night as the New Year arrived, I was reading Dan Brown's new book, "Lost Symbol" and drinking some scotch -- the gift from a dear friend. I paused for a moment to just acknowledge God's presence in the transition and prayed the prayer I pray every night upon going to sleep -- the Prayer of St. Francis.

I will do my best to make this a good year trusting in God's constant presence and grace. How about you?

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

People of the Inn, Again -- more stories

2009-12-18T22:31:00.002-06:00

Tonight was another performance of Dolores McCreary's "People of the Inn." This work is a masterpiece of a musical. First performed in 1993, this Christmas story is simple and beautiful in the way the message of God's love for everyone touches and then penetrates the heart.

I have now seen three or four "seasons" of People of the Inn and most every performance in each season. Of course the message of Christmas is the most important part of the experience. However, there are many "subplots" at work in every cast. As I watched tonight I was reminded of people's stories who have played roles on this stage -- past and present.

There was a mother whose son was home from the military watching her perform. A dear friend who is one of our "Wisdom People" up there singing her heart out. There were Dolores' grandchildren -- and their parents soaking it all in. The duet of a couple who sang with meaning upon meaning. A new member of St. Luke's sweetly singing and two members of the community to had joined the cast -- and looked at home with our family.

I remember from performances past two friends who have died before their time. A friend who is no longer a friend -- and I still grieve the loss though we share the same message. Young people who have moved on to college and beyond. Other friends who have moved away for jobs or retirement who somehow seem like they still belong.

The stories are many behind the roles played on stage, but The Story remains for each of them -- and for those of us who watch and experience the wonder of God's love in the Christ Child. This is not just life -- this is the Life of Grace.

And so, I'll be there tomorrow night (Saturday) at 7:00 to experience People of the Inn again. Combining People of the Inn and the Holy Eucharist on Sunday morning at 10:30 should also be special. I will be expecting something very special to happen again and again.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

The Coming of God

2009-12-08T21:17:00.003-06:00

Our God is the One who come to us
in a burning bush
in an angel's song,
in a newborn child.
Our God is the One who cannot be found
locked in the Church,
not even in the sanctuary.
Our God will be where God will be
with no constraints,
no predictability.
Our God lives where our God lives,
and destruction has no power
and even death cannot stop
the living.
Our God will be born where God will be born,
but there is no place to look
for the One who comes to us.
When God is ready
God will come
even to a godforsaken place
like a stable in Bethlehem.
Watch...
for you know not when
God comes.
Watch, that you might be found
whenever
wherever
God comes.

From Kneeling in Bethlehem by Ann Weems

Another Gay Bishop?

2009-12-06T21:59:00.004-06:00

Another Gay Bishop?
Well, sooner or later it was bound to happen. The Diocese of Los Angeles has elected an assistant Bishop, The Canon Mary Glasspool, who happens to be gay. Everything I have read about her is glowing and great. She has served very well as a priest of the Church and has gifts that would help make her a good Bishop. She still needs to be approved by a majority of both the Bishops and Diocesan Standing Committees of the Episcopal Church.

Frankly, the fact that she is "gay" and in a committed relationship should be irrelevant as far as I am concerned. However, the context and timing of her election make this a very difficult situation. The implications for the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion are huge. This is reflected in the immediate warning from the Archbishop of Canterbury. He has worked hard to hold the Communion together and find a way through the challenging and divisive issues and maintain relationships.

While I wish the Diocese of Los Angeles had chosen another candidate, one has to wonder how long it will take for the Anglican Communion as a whole to be more understanding, accepting and inclusive regarding homosexuals in general and clergy who are gay in particular. How many lifetimes will it take? I fear that time is decades away. And, this doesn't include other issues that divide us like their views of women's rights in general and specifically women as clergy. And, then there are the issues of HIV/Aids, the nature of Holy Scripture, mutual respect and integrity in relationships within the Communion and much more.

So what is the value and sense of holding back when there has been little to no honest give and take from those in the Anglican Communion who oppose the direction of the Episcopal Church – indeed they won't even gather around the Altar of our Lord with us for Holy Communion! Yet, I love and value the Anglican Communion for what we share and hold in common in Christ with people around the world. At the same time, I fear that what I value has been lost for quite awhile and I/we have put off acknowledging the truth. With the new developments, the Anglican Communion may become fractured beyond repair and we will have to trust that something new and more wholesome will emerge.

I don't have a vote in this -- just a sense of loss whichever way this goes. I am inclined, with deep sadness, to congratulate Canon Glasspool and the Diocese of Los Angeles – though I wish it had not happened and dread the implications. This may be worse than the election of Bishop Robinson -- or so I fear. On the other hand, perhaps a new day is dawning for all of us beyond our imagination. God is in our midst and is coming again in our brokenness – the Church will continue.

All the while, I am aware that not all of us in the Episcopal Church, the Diocese or St. Luke’s will agree on all of these complex issues, but we must not ignore them either. Let us be informed and in conversation along the way.

And now, I will turn again to the Season of Advent and trust the One who comes to us again and keep on loving the parish and ministry entrusted to us at St. Luke's.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Circles Campaign, Poverty and Churches

2009-11-06T23:49:00.002-06:00

Recently Scott Miller of Move the Mountain and the Circles Campaign sent me some material he is working on which aimed at getting churches involved. Here is part of what I wrote in response which reflects how I got involved.

Scott,
Thanks for inviting me to the conversation.

I going to give you some random thoughts from my experience in this work over the years and the current work here in Bartlesville.

I think you need a "hook" to get their interest. "Ending Poverty in our Time" is a partial one -- but for me and other ministers I am working with now, the hook is the notion of going beyond maintaining people in poverty to helping them to self-sufficiency -- a method that actually works.

At the beginning of my first presentation in a workshop I introduce myself and why I am involved in this. I tell them I have been working with the poor through my churches for thirty-nine years. After the first twenty years I finally realized we were doing some good things filled with compassion, but were only helping people stay in poverty and not finding a way out.

For the last nineteen years I have been involved in some creative and caring projects which were intended to help people out of poverty to a new life of self-sufficiency. We had some measure of success -- and disappointments.

Then I heard Phil DeVol do a workshop on "Bridges Out of Poverty" and began to understand poverty in some very new ways for me -- "Ahas" were everywhere in me and the people around me. A few years later I took the Bridges training. Oh how I wish I had known thirty-nine years ago what I know now. But here I am and ready to act now with an "informed compassion."

Then we on the Poverty Alleviation Coalition discovered that Scott Miller's Move the Mountain and the Circles Campaign could provide the methodology for actually helping people move out of poverty to a new life of self-sufficiency. This is where theory and understanding can actually begin to change personal lives and communities.

And, this is a natural for churches because this involves a moral and spiritual imperative of our faith to address the needs of the poor. If a church of any size or kind can catch the vision of the Circles Campaign, poverty will begin to be eliminated one family at a time. If a group of churches worked together in Circles, the possibilities will be unlimited.

To say a church can be doing this in ninety days, makes this all the more attractive. We like seeing results sooner rather than later.

Anyone can add to this conversation. What has drawn you to the Circles Campaign?
More another time.
Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Left/Right/Just Health Care Plans for EVERYONE

2009-11-05T14:40:00.002-06:00

A good friend just sent me an email that got my attention -- acutally made me focus on some things in a different way than before. I have removed his name, but kept the article he referenced -- I read most of it. Frankly I get weary over the "left" and "right" references from people labeling each other. Health care is a very real issue with no simple answers -- and will require quieter, cleaner and reasonable spirits and minds to get us to a better place -- or at least taking the first steps in that direction. My response to my friend reflects something of my struggle.

From:
To: Lee S work
Sent: Thursday, November 05, 2009 12:54 PM
Subject: WSJ Opinion - The Worst Bill Ever

This article tells it like it is. Hope the lefties are able to understand that simple fact -- if it's possible to get them to read it, that is.

http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424052748703399204574505423751140690-lMyQjAxMDA5MDAwMzEwNDMyWj.html

Dear Friend,
I'm still waiting for the "righties" to propose something better that addresses the health needs of everyone and not just the most fortunate people in the country like us. I don't think you have been to a Bridges Workshop. One of the images we use is from baseball. Many, indeed most of us, were born on first, second or third base in the game of life -- a few were born with a homerun already to their record. But there are many people who were born standing at the plate with two strikes against them -- and that is their day every day. And while I have not engaged in the health care debate, I think the image applies. So, I don't care if it is the "lefties" or the "righties" who come up with a just and equitable plan -- I am still waiting.
Peace,
Lee+

A New Circles Insight (for me)

2009-10-28T22:00:00.002-05:00

Today we did another Bridges Out of Poverty Workshop. This one was for the Community Foundation and the United Way. These are people who do a lot of work with and for the poor in our community.

We had been through the Mental Models of Poverty, Middle Class and Wealth. We were working on the hidden rules and the language register of class when we took a break. One of the participants started sharing information on a special project designed to show young people from poverty how to find a job -- a very worthy project.

Suddenly it dawned on me that there were many worthy projects in Bartlesville designed to help people who are poor -- many of them represented in the room. Yet, these are often (if not always) provided in isolation from the life of poverty -- and offered from a middle class perspective. Even if there is a measure of success in these projects, they are likely destined to fail.

Why? While the project may be very middle class and intended to lead to self-sufficiency, life is still being lived "in" poverty and with a poverty "mentality." The participants will not have the skills, knowledge, vision and stability to live a life of self-sufficiency even if they successfully complete the project. And, the relationships within the poverty community will be a strong and constant pull backward from any lasting progress.

These worthy projects need to be a part of the "total package" found in the Circles Campaign. Circles addresses the whole person in helping them achieve self-sufficiency.

I still learning, but I think this personal "Aha" is crucial for success. We need "informed compassion" in this movement to end poverty one family at a time and not just special projects.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Move The Mountain and Circles Campaign?

2009-10-27T22:14:00.001-05:00

“Move The Mountain” is quickly moving to the “Circles Campaign” in Bartlesville. There is some confusion as to what that means. In short, Move The Mountain is the national movement to “eliminate poverty in our lifetime” (I would be happy with 30% for starters) and the Circles Campaign is the “on the ground transformation” of lives one person/family at a time.

There are two tracks for getting from MTM to Circles. Track One is for volunteers committed to helping people in poverty become self-sufficient. The second track is for people living in generational poverty who want to become self-sufficient.

Track Two
1. This track provides an entry point for people trapped in poverty and enlists them in “Getting Ahead.” People for the first two classes have come from Habitat for Humanity and Vision Onward. New participants may come from a employer, an agency referral, personal initiative – by whatever means for identifying people who are ready for this change in life.
2. Getting Ahead is a fifteen week course where participants become “investigators” in learning mental models, language, hidden rules and resources for self-sufficiency. Each person forms a better understanding of poverty and what it takes to move beyond survival to a “future story.”
3. Upon completion of Getting Ahead, they may graduate from being an investigator to becoming a “Circle Leader.”

Track One
1. This track is for volunteers who want to help people in poverty move to self-sufficiency. Everyone who participates in the Circles as an “Ally” or as a resource person must receive training in “Bridges Out of Poverty.” This workshop provides a framework for understanding poverty and shows what is necessary for person to move from generational poverty to self-sufficiency. The same mental models, language, hidden rules and resources taught in Getting Ahead are also taught in Bridges.
2. Another requirement for this track is “Circles” training. The two hour workshop provides specific training for working with “Circle Leaders” and helping them grow into self-sufficiency.

The Circles Campaign
The two tracks converge in the Circles Campaign. Circle Leaders are nurtured and encouraged with three or four personal Allies. Community resource people from businesses, schools, government agencies, charitable organizations, churches and case workers also surround the family as a network for success. This is an eighteen month process for Circle Leaders to move out of a life in poverty to a life anchored in self-sufficiency.

The Weekly Meeting is opportunity for Circle Leaders and Allies to meet on a regular basis for planning, accountability, encouragement and networking. The monthly Big View Meetings bring all the Circles together for sharing, problem-solving and learning. Special resource people are used for specific issues and opportunities.

Guiding Coalition
This group of community leaders guides the process and keeps both tracks moving. They also secure the funding necessary for the Circles Campaign and oversee the staff and volunteers.

Things are happening.
Hope abounds,
Fr. Lee+

Roman PR -- Nothing Changing

2009-10-23T23:06:00.002-05:00

I have had a lot of people asking about this the big announcement from the Roman Catholic Church inviting Anglicans to join them. When all is said an done, I think this is good PR for the Romans and not much more.

On the surface it sounds like the Romans are making special provisions for Anglicans/Episcopalians who are unhappy and want a more "traditional" home as may be found in the Roman Church.

You might want to know:

"Anglican priests can become Roman priests even if they are married." Actually that has been happening for decades. I knew a cigar-smoking Episcopal priest (I really liked) in Atlanta back in the seventies who took his wife and joined the ranks of Roman priests. The announcement may be news to some, but in fact this has been possible for a long time. Of course if the wife dies, he cannot remarry.

"People will be able to keep some of the Anglican traditions as they become Romans." Remember Confirmation Class 101? We have preserved much from our Roman heritage in Anglican life -- liturgy, saints, sacraments, etc. Not much new there. What was not mentioned were expectations regarding obedience to the Pope, The literal Body and Blood of Jesus and wide range of positions regarding divorce, exclusive Communion, birth control, etc.

The notion there would be an "Anglican Church" within the Roman Church is interesting. Who do you think will have the authority and power? Would this church within the church be another "order" or "sect?" In what ways would they not be fully "Roman?"

So who will gain from this? Good public relations for the Romans perhaps. I don't look for a mass exodus from the Episcopal Church -- or the Anglican Communion. Most of the folks who are leaving have left.

So who will lose? It is possible some disaffected Anglicans will go to the Romans. That would be a loss to those who have started a separate providence of "Orthodox Anglicans" in North America -- those folks who don't like an inclusive perspective regarding homosexuals, who don't want to even talk about the blessing of same gender relationships; who still don't like women priests; who don't like the new Book of Common Prayer, etc. I suspect most of them don't like the Pope either and a variety of things about the Romans. It may be a matter of what they dislike the most. What a life!

So, in the end I don't think this is news at all -- or at least anything new that will add or subtract from our lives. The announcement certainly didn't help ecumenical relations -- but hey, last time I checked, I still can't take Communion in a Roman Church. What about you? Fr. Bill when he was at St. James always included me -- but he has always been more Episcopal than Roman -- that's why I like him so much.

In short, the Roman announcement was much to do about nothing different -- and of little interest to us. The fractures in the Church remain. Lord, grant us continual Grace for the Church -- which is all of us.

Peace,
Lee+

What an awful feeling -- Virus Infection!

2009-10-20T22:55:00.002-05:00

It all started on Saturday (I think). I started getting pop-up windows on my computer for "Cyber Security." The warning sounded ominous. My computer was infected with 42 virus threats and Cyber Security could protect me. All I had to do was sign-up. I had no idea how this security program got on my computer, but I already had an anti-virus program and was suspicious of this one.

With each passing day the "pop-ups" became more frequent with ever increasing warnings about what was happening in my computer. Cyber Security desperately wanted to save me. I called our IT guy and left a message.

Then we reached a new level. I was being told that a specific virus was trying to take control of my computer. I could tell Cyber Security to stop it or for my protection it would shut down my computer -- which did and then rebooted. This was getting less and less fun to say the least. I sent an email to our IT guy pleading for help.

I did a complete computer scan with my security system -- nothing was found. This wasn't good news. Then came Tuesday (today) and the pressure was turned up. The warning signs went from blue to pink and the wording was even more urgent. Now I was being warned that a virus was trying to get my credit card information and export it to an unknown computer in a far away place.

Then it happened. My computer became completely non-functional. And, I was lost in the realm of infections and helplessness.

I called our IT man, Bill, again and got him. I told him my story. He agreed to help me immediately if I could bring my laptop to Tulsa. He didn't want me to take it to his business or home -- fearing infection? We met in the courtyard at Utica Square between the Wild Fork and Starbucks. I looked around to see if anyone was watching and handed my black bag containing my infected and disabled computer to Bill. He looked tense and focused as I briefly whispered my recent computer history. I don't know why I whispered -- it just seemed appropriate.

Then we went our separate ways. I did notice that he had two license plates -- one on the back bumper and another in the back window. Meaningless perhaps, but strange.

And so, I am using my wife's laptop -- with her permission, but I know she is afraid I will infect her computer even though I have washed my hands several times.

I don't know why anyone would read this, but I think it may be therapeutic for me. This ordeal has been strange. Someone somewhere is messing with my computer and I am helpless to do anything about it. And it isn't just my computer, I feel infected personally -- even violated-- and I'm a nice guy --mostly.

I have found it interesting that this has happened with the masked identity of "Cyber Security" -- who has no real interest in saving me -- only to use and destroy.

Oh my, is this a spiritual lesson? Worse yet spiritual warfare?
I had better trust Bill and just go to bed.
I shall go to sleep resting in the hope that surely it is Bill who will save me.
Peace to all -- including my computer foes -- may God short circuit your ways and transform your hearts.
Fr. Lee+

CONCERN and Move the Mountain/Bridges Out of Poverty

2009-10-16T21:49:00.004-05:00

On Wednesday M'Liss Jenkins and I did a Bridges Workshop for the Board of CONCERN and many of the supporting Pastors. We only had about an hour and half. So, we cut a few things out of the presentation and turned on the after-burners.

CONCERN has been at the heart of serving the poor in Bartlesville for over thirty-five years. The ecumenical effort has spawned a variety of other ministries/organizations over the years which have gone on to be independent and viable on an ongoing basis. Most important to CONCERN has been the Child Learning Center which provides affordable quality care and education for the children of the working poor. There is also a payee program which manages the money of people mentally and physically disabled. Volunteers also give groceries on an emergency basis and also help families with their utilities -- utilizing funds from the churches. All of this includes an in-take process which tracks assistance given to the families.

I was excited about this workshop for a variety of reasons. The CONCERN Board is seeking to clarify it's mission and determine their direction for the future. The attendance of so many ministers also made this important because they need to help not only CONCERN but also spread the news to their congregations. We also had one of our state representatives there.

Each of these "entities" need to be asking how their personal perspectives and that of their organization are being informed by MTM and Bridges. Changing from a mission of maintaining people in poverty to helping them move to self-sufficiency is full of potential and implications. Involving people in the churches in this movement is imperative -- that is the largest pool of volunteers to get personally involved.

Wednesday was a big step and I hope people went away feeling challenged and informed. This is only the beginning. The ride has just begun. I am hanging on to see how is goes -- no I'm not -- honestly, I so believe in this I making the pitch to anyone who will listen!

Peace,
Lee+

Memories and St. Luke's Day 2009

2009-10-08T15:25:00.001-05:00

This Sunday we will celebrate St. Luke’s Day – and yes, I know the actual date is the following Sunday on the 18th – but that is also Fall Break for the schools and we try to avoid that conflict. So, this year we will celebrate St. Luke’s twice – a bonus year!

Anticipating our celebration, I have been on a little memory trip. It started with The Grove annual picnic held last evening in our garage and driveway – a tradition sprung on us after we signed the papers for the house! The gathering of “old-timers” led to conversations about Dr. Camp and Laura Katherine Huntington who had first lived in our place. They were very special to Lynda and me, indeed all of St. Luke’s, and we still miss them. At one time they represented the heart and soul of our parish and visa versa – and they are still a part of who we are even for those who never met them.

Our new sound system is being installed in the church this week and that elicited even more memories. Most of the funds for this major project are from memorials for Marguerite Healy and Craig Woods. From the time I arrived at St. Luke’s almost thirteen years ago, Marguerite was homebound and I would from time to time take Holy Communion to her. What a gracious soul and thoughtful soul! – who was also hard of hearing. I have such fond memories of our times together.

Of course that is also true for Craig – a friend who died much too soon. I loved his “bear” hugs and laughter. He always had a story and an encouraging word whether at a party, the lumber yard or passing in the hallway. As one of our faithful ushers, he would be amused to know that the ushers will be in charge of the new sound “controls.” Craig was one of my first personal friends at St. Luke’s and I value the memories.

On another front, every time I open the newspaper (EE) someone else is honoring Dick Kane – and appropriately so. As you will read in this newsletter, we will honor both Mary and Dick when we introduce and bless the new hymn book, “Wonder, Love and Praise.”

One can go on and on about Dick, but Mary was also special. She loved to sing, play the piano and dance. I think she graciously went through life that way which helped make the two of them quite a pair. This reminds me of their consistent interest in Lynda’s music and support from the day we arrive in Bartlesville. I have no doubt that Mary and Dick are enjoying the idea that they will continue to be a part of the musical dimension of St. Luke’s.

Well, after all these years I have a lot of memories of special people who have shared our journey at St. Luke’s. Having said that, they are no more important than members of our Parish Family today. There are so many wonderful and committed and growing people who share in the journey now and are shaping our future as a parish. As I look down the directory of names, faces and experiences come to mind which are becoming my memories for tomorrow – and I am grateful.

All of this feeds my anticipation of our celebration on Sunday – St. Luke’s Day, 2009! See you here!

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Move the Mountain, the Sacraments and Informed Compassion

2009-09-28T22:35:00.003-05:00

Move the Mountain in Bartlesville is about to begin. A new initiative regarding poverty in our community is about to be explained and put into motion. I am very excited about the possibilities. Of all the work I have done in helping the poor, I think this approach has the most potential of making a difference – even a huge difference. I am looking forward to hearing Scott Miller from Move the Mountain and sharing in the vision – and teaming with others who catch the vision of how we can help people in poverty move to self-sufficiency in Bartlesville.

Part of my excitement comes from the number of St. Luke’s people who have committed to being there on Thursday. As of today we are anticipating at least one hundred people at the leadership breakfast and all day seminar – that is a great response for both parts. What is even more amazing to me is that twenty-five percent of the people are from St. Luke’s! I have to hide my pride in having so many of our people there compared to other churches and organizations.

Actually, I should not be surprised. Our parish has been very involved in not only providing financial support but also personal involvement in helping people in need – and increasingly so each year. As one agency leader told me the other day, every time I go to meetings around town I meet people from St. Luke’s who are so committed to helping others. Another person who heard the comment said, “No kidding. They are every where!” That does an old priest’s heart good to hear those kinds of reports.

Having said that, remember we are a Eucharistic Centered people – a Sacramental People. Who we are and what we do comes through our worship – our encounter with Christ in community with each other. We are not “Lone Rangers” or merely a merry band of “do-gooders.” What happens on Sunday around the Altar of our Lord, informs, shapes and empowers us to truly be a Sacramental People in every aspect of our lives and what we do for others – and especially for those less fortunate than ourselves.

What we are learning from Move the Mountain and Bridges Out of Poverty helps inform us about poverty and people trapped in poverty – and how we can best help them. Our worship and the Sacraments take all of that to the next level of Christ’s compassion working in and through us. All of this combined empowers us with what I call “informed compassion” for helping others learn how to help themselves.

I hope this is true whether we are working with our children and youth or serving as mentors at Kane or serving at Agape or CONCERN or working with someone in a Circle of Friends – and now with Move the Mountain and Bridges. In all that we do, the Sacrament, Christ in us, is value added that is transformative – for us and the people we serve.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Move the Mountain & Key Leaders

2009-09-24T22:26:00.002-05:00

I sent this email to bunch of people last night who are leaders in our community and have yet to make reservations for Move the Mountain and Scott Miller. Perhaps it applies to you too...

Have you signed up for Move the Mountain on Thursday, October 1st?

In your position, I assume you would want to be a part of eliminating (or significantly reducing) poverty in Bartlesville and Washington County – in our lifetime.

Move the Mountain is already changing life in over fifty communities across the country. This process for helping people move out of poverty to self-sufficiency not only changes the lives of the poor but also benefits the business community, justice system, not-for-profit organizations, school systems and government agencies.

Such an effort in Bartlesville will require the involvement of leaders from every sector of our community as well as volunteers who want to make a difference. Scott Miller of Move the Mountain will show us how. The attached flyer provides more information.

To make a reservation for the breakfast and/or the seminar (including lunch), call the United Way at 336-1044 or send an email to Meredith@bartlesvilleuw.org.

Personally, I think this is so important for our city and people in poverty, I am encouraging people to change whatever plans they already have for Thursday, October 1st, in order to attend and hear Scott Miller. If you have any questions, feel free to call me on my cell at 397-3683.

With Increasing Vision and Hope,
Fr. Lee

Move the Mountain, Poverty and The Dream

2009-09-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

In looking at Move the Mountain and Bridges Out of Poverty on other cities, this quote was the preface for a program in Indiana. I offer it for your consideration and visioning.

FROM POVERTY TO PROSPERITY:
THE AMERICAN DREAM

"Breaking away and moving a comfortable distance from poverty seems to require a perfect lineup of favorable conditions. A set of skills, a good starting wage, and a job with the likelihood of promotion are prerequisites. But so are clarity of purpose, courageous self-esteem, a lack of substantial debt, the freedom from illness or addiction, a functional family, a network of upstanding friends, and the right help from private or governmental agencies. Any gap in that array is an entry point for trouble, because being poor means being unprotected. You might as well try playing quarterback with no helmet, no padding, no training, and no experience, behind a line of hundred-pound weaklings. With no cushion of money, no training in the ways of the wider world, and too little defense against the threats and temptations of decaying communities, a poor man or woman gets sacked again and again – buffeted and bruised and defeated. When an exception breaks this cycle of failure, it is called the fulfillment of the American Dream."

"If hospitals, schools, housing authorities, police departments, welfare offices, and other critical institutions were bold and well financed, they could reach far beyond their mandates, create connections of services, and become portals through which the distressed could pass into a web of assistance. It is a question of skill and will." (The Working Poor: Invisible in America by David K. Shipler)

Very well said, don't you think? The skills are within reach with Move the Mountain, Bridges and Getting Ahead. I think this is more a matter of the "will." And, by "will" I don't mean just the will of those in poverty, but our will to make a difference.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Bridges in Bartlesville

2009-09-23T09:22:00.002-05:00

Last night M'Liss Jenkins and I presented a workshop on Bridges Out of Poverty -- two hours packed with information on a framework for understanding poverty. There were about fifty people -- about a third were from the host church, Disciples Christian Church. Our colleague, Gina Elias, was ill and could not join us so we scrambled to get all the material out there for people to take in as much as possible.

How did it go? I don't really know. The people were very responsive and seemed to be connected. In that this was the first time we had presented a complete workshop, we had to work extra hard to stay focused in presenting the concepts while engaging the people who were there. We were more than a little tired when it was over.

For me, every time I work with the Bridges material I am all the more convinced that Bridges, along with Move the Mountain, provides the keys to unlocking poverty and helping people move to self-sufficiency. For those who have compassion for the poor, Bridges can help us have "informed" compassion that can actually make a difference. For those who simply want to get people to work and off the welfare rolls, Bridges shows us how to make it happen. For those immobilized by their skepticism or prejudice or darkened vision, let them watch what happens and then join us along the way.

How did it go last night? Well, in part that depends on the people who were there last night and the level of their commitment to truly helping people out of poverty. Last night was a start. I hope they will be at the Move the Mountain seminar on Thursday, October 1st, at the Community Center. And then, I hope they will become "Allies" who will actually work with people seeking to be self-sufficient. I know for some people last night was it and there will be no more. Yet, I could sense there was a real desire to do something more than what we have been doing in helping the poor -- something that will lead to a better way of life for people trapped in poverty.

We shall see as the journey continues. Next week we will do a workshop for the Bartlesville Library. In mid October I will be privileged to make a presentation to the Board of CONCERN. So, hold on -- there is more to come.

Have you signed up for Move the Mountain on Thursday, October 1st? Call the United Way at 336-1044 or email at Meredith@bartlesvilleuw.org to make your reservation.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Bridges Out of Poverty and OK Episcopalians

2009-09-10T22:47:00.002-05:00

Last Sunday I started a series on Bridges Out of Poverty at St. Luke's. The series will continue for another five weeks or so as we work to understand the nature of poverty and what can be done. We created "mental models" of poverty, middle class and wealth last week. People seemed to get into the exercise and a momentum seemed to be building with "ahas" happening for many of the participants.

This is tied to "Move the Mountain" which will arrive on Thursday, October 1st. That is when Scott Miller will be here for a breakfast with the leaders of our city and provide an all day seminar with all those who want to see/help people move from poverty to self-sufficiency. I am so glad to be a part of this transformational project.

Today I got a bonus. Our Bishop was in town today with his convention planning team. The Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma will hold its annual convention in Bartlesville in November. I was invited to make two presentations on Bridges Out of Poverty in the break-out sessions. As one person put it, we are good at helping the poor, but too often we do it in ways that perpetuate the poverty instead of helping people become self-sufficient. Who knows, this might turn into a movement that goes way beyond Bartlesville.

I know that isn't likely -- but then again, maybe God's people will hear the call to do more -- even seek and serve Christ in all people -- especially the poor.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Move the Mountain Sounds Great, But...

2009-09-09T22:26:00.002-05:00

I have now had the opportunity to present information about Move the Mountain coming to Bartlesville on Thursday, October 1st, to a lot of people -- St. Luke's, The Bartlesville Ministerial Association, City Council, The EE, some business people, a lot of friends. Everyone thinks it sounds great. The idea of addressing poverty in ways that will help people move toward self-sufficient has been well received.

But... will that turn into an RSVP for the breakfast or an RSVP for the seminar? Do people want someone else to get involved in making life for the poor? Are they waiting to see who will go first instead of leading in making a difference? Is the notion that this might be a spiritual calling or imperative too much to grasp? Is it possible that the poor really don't matter in the course of our daily lives?

People seem to like all that has been shared about Move the Mountain and Bridges Out of Poverty -- what potential for changing lives -- and our community! What about you? Make your reservation through the Bartlesville Regional United Way -- 336-1044 or Meredith@bartlesvilleuw.org

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Bartlesville City Council and Move the Mountain

2009-09-08T22:11:00.002-05:00

As one can easily tell, I am really up about Move the Mountain. Getting others to catch the vision is the challenge. Tonight I spoke to the Bartlesville City Council about this wonderful opportunity for Bartlesville as a whole and families trapped in poverty in particular.

At the beginning of the meeting the Council honored members of the fire and police departments who fought the "May Building Fire." Suddenly I realized that gave me my opening lines. I told council members that they did the right thing in honoring them, but I also wanted to acknowledge how the whole city seemed to rally around everyone touched by the fire. People were going out of their way to be sure the business owners had places to set up shop and keep going. We experienced unified city if only for a few days -- though I think it still continues.

Move the Mountain will give our community an ongoing sense of unity as we work to help people in poverty move to self-sufficiency. Everyone will benefit. Our community may experience transformation. This could be true in a variety of ways:

1. Obviously those caught in poverty will gain the most -- new life!
2. The children, fifty percent under five in our community, won't have to fight the battle of generational poverty if their parents are helped to move up.
3. The people in Bartlesville who have worked so hard to provide for people in poverty will see in reality what if means to "teach someone to fish."
4. Employers will not only see more people ready and able to work, but the retention rates will go up -- that is huge in business!
5. The economy will benefit -- remember, early MTM results are showing that for every dollar spent (invested) in this transformational program, two dollars will go back to the state from welfare and food stamps -- four dollars is returned to the community in earned income --now that is big!
6. Corporate and endowment gifts will see better use of the funds given to help the poor. Indeed, their gifts will be more transforming than maintaining.
7. People who are often critical of those caught in poverty will have the opportunity of not only understanding what it is really like to live in poverty, but become actively involved in helping.
8. Folks in poverty don't really believe people in city government and business really care. MTM can change that.

I didn't get to say all of this to the City Council. I made my brief pitch and challenged them to attend the breakfast and the all day seminar -- even if they had to clear their calendars for Thursday, October 1st. You know, I think some of them were actually marking their calendars. I have hope.

Have you made your reservations?

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Move The Mountain and Personal Motives

2009-09-06T22:32:00.004-05:00

What would motivate you to help end poverty? Seriously, what would it take to get you involved in ways that make a difference for people trapped in poverty? In the last blog I led with several possible motivations – but without naming them. Today I’ll be more direct.

Concern or Fear We know that about fifty percent of the children under five in the Bartlesville Regional United Way Area (BRUW) live in poverty. At Kane Elementary School sixty-one percent of the students qualify for the free breakfast and lunch programs! If their parents don’t learn how to be self-sufficient, the children are likely to grow up perpetuating the poverty cycle – the number and challenges of poverty will be greater!!!

Compassion and Concern Over thirty percent of the population in BRUW is below the Federal Poverty Level. So for example, a family of one parent and two children requires an annual income of $30,385 to be self-sufficient – that means making $14, 61 per hour! In truth the average annual income for a female head of household with two children in our area is about $17,000. How can they possibly keep themselves afloat on so little – and again, what will happen with the children? Every day is spent simply trying to survive for another day – another week.

Economics and Community Move The Mountain’s early results in over fifty communities show that for every dollar ($1.00) spent on the program to eliminate poverty: Two dollars ($2.00) in welfare and food stamp subsidies was returned to the state – and four dollars ($4.00) was returned to the community as new earned income. In addition, the overall condition of the neighborhoods was improved as people’s lives improved.

Employee Retention A major issue for employers is keeping people who are the working poor on the job. The turnover in employees is a costly and time-consuming problem for businesses. And, this adds to the instability of the family in the poverty trap. “Move the Mountain,” using “Bridges Out of Poverty” and “Getting Ahead,” helps teach the employer and the employee how to have a stable and productive relationship. This is simply good business.

Christian Imperative How ironic it is that the Lectionary has us in the “Epistle of James” right now. This scripture ties faith to everyday life in rather confrontive and also real ways. What does it me mean to say to someone in poverty, “Peace,” but then do nothing to help them? As “James” says quite directly, something is wrong when we honor the wealthy while neglecting or worse yet oppressing the poor. Just look at where Jesus spent his time – how can we not do the same.

Spiritual Connection At the deepest level, those who are trapped in generational poverty are sons and daughters of God just like us. We say we are “blessed” and we are – but more accurately, we are more fortunate than those born in poverty and we have been able to build on that good fortune while they remain trapped. Do you think God chose us to be in the middle or upper classes of our society? And, that God destined the poor and their children to live in poverty? We are all in this as children of God and we are called to “love our neighbors as ourselves.”

Whatever motivates you, will you help make a difference? Be there Thursday, October 1st!

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Move the Mountain in Bartlesville, October 1, 2009

2009-09-03T21:42:00.001-05:00

MOVE THE MOUNTAIN
Ending Poverty in our Lifetime:
One Family at a TimeWould you like to end poverty in Bartlesville?
1. In the Bartlesville Regional United Way Area
a. Fifty percent of the children under five years old live in poverty.
b. Over thirty percent of the population is below the Federal Poverty Level.
c. A family of one parent and two children requires an annual income of $30,385 ($14.61 per hour) to be self-sufficient.

2. Move The Mountain’s early results in over fifty communities show that for every dollar ($1.00) spent on the program:
a. Two dollars ($2.00) in welfare and food stamp subsidies was returned to the state.
b. Four dollars ($4.00) was returned to the community as new earned income.
c. Lives are changed.

3. Children in Poverty will repeat the pattern of their families unless they and their parents are shown the possibilities and taught how to be self-sufficient. The cycle can be broken.

A Brief Background: About three years ago the Poverty Alleviation Coalition was formed with representatives from agencies, churches and organizations in Bartlesville who are interested in helping the poor in our community. As a result and with support from the Bartlesville United Way, Move the Mountain is coming to Bartlesville. This initiative is going to have a significant impact in helping families move toward self-sufficiency and the betterment of the entire community.

I. Move the Mountain
The mission of Move the Mountain Leadership Center (MTM) is to inspire and equip communities to end poverty all across our nation. MTM provides transformational leadership and planning programs to align leaders and their organizations with high impact strategies that can reduce and eventually end poverty. The Poverty Alleviation Coalition and the United Way are bringing Scott Miller, co-founder of Move the Mountain to Bartlesville.

II. Phase One: Transformational Leadership
On Thursday, October 1, 2009, Scott Miller will be in Bartlesville to introduce Move the Mountain and call leaders of every sector of our community to become transformational leaders in addressing the needs of citizens at every level but especially those who live in poverty and can become self-sufficient.

The first event will be a breakfast for community leaders at 7:15 in St. Luke’s Metcalf Hall. Scott Miller will make a presentation on “Move the Mountain: Ending Poverty in our Lifetime.” This is specifically for leaders from the business, city government, legislature, education, churches, charitable organizations and social agencies. The more people involved, the greater the impact.

This will be followed at 9:30 with an all day seminar on “Move the Mountain: A Transformational Leadership Planning Process” which will be held at the Bartlesville Community Center.

III. Training Allies and Community Leaders
Bridges Out of Poverty by Ruby Payne, Philip DeVol and Terie Smith is used to train community leaders, social workers, business owners, ministers and volunteers – anyone who wants to help people in poverty work their way to self-sufficiency. “Bridges” leads to a better understanding of poverty, provides a process for helping people out of poverty and encourages restructuring community resources to facilitate and sustain self-sufficiency. This training is also used to prepare “Allies” for the “Circles” stage of the process.

IV. Moving from Poverty to Self-sufficiency
Moving from poverty to self-sufficiency also requires training which uses the same concepts as “Bridges” but in a different way. Getting Ahead is a fifteen week curriculum which is used by people seeking to be self-sufficient. Participants learn to use the hidden rules of class to build up financial, emotional and social resources. This allows them to become informed “Leaders” on their journey out of poverty and set goals that will direct them. The course is preparatory for the next and critical stage of “Circles.”

V. The Circles CampaignThe MTM initiative then brings the “Leaders” and the “Allies” together. Each “Circle” consists of a family working to get out of poverty (Leaders); several members of the middle and upper classes (Allies) who befriend them and provide support; and community resource people who are eager to help. The family is the Circle Leader and sets direction for their weekly activities which will lead them out of poverty. With the help and friendship of their Allies, each family sets and achieves goals unique to their own needs.

Scott Miller is CEO and co-founder of Move the Mountain Leadership Center, established in 1992 to develop and support leaders committed to ending poverty in the United States. He has worked with leaders across the country to build a network of communities focused on dismantling poverty.

Scott began his focus on poverty in the late 70’s as a volunteer for the Catholic Worker in Rochester, NY. Since then, he has initiated projects around the country that directly help families out of poverty, as well as inviting the public to get involved in making the pathway easier and more successful for others.

More on Move the Mountain and Poverty

2009-09-01T22:39:00.002-05:00

MOVE THE MOUNTAIN
Ending Poverty in our Lifetime

About three years ago the Poverty Alleviation Coalition was formed with representatives from agencies, churches and organizations who are interested in helping the poor in our community. As a result, Move the Mountain, Bridges Out of Poverty, Getting Ahead and Circles Campaign are beginning to happen in Bartlesville. These initiatives are going to have a big impact in helping families move toward self-sufficiency. Churches of every kind should be at the heart of every phase and effort – where Christ will be.

Move the Mountain
The mission of Move the Mountain Leadership Center (MTM) is to inspire and equip communities to end poverty all across our nation. MTM provides transformational leadership and planning programs to align leaders and their organizations with high impact strategies that can reduce and eventually end poverty. With help of the Bartlesville United Way and the Poverty Alleviation Coalition, Scott Miller, co-founder of MTM, is coming to Bartlesville. The first stage will begin on Thursday, October 1, 2009 with a breakfast for community leaders at 7:15 in St. Luke’s Metcalf Hall. Scott Miller will make a presentation on “Move the Mountain: Ending Poverty in our Lifetime.” This will be followed at 9:30 with an all day seminar on “Move the Mountain: A Transformational Leadership Planning Process” which will be held at the Washington County Health Department.

Bridges Out of Poverty
This book by Ruby Payne, Philip DeVol and Terie Smith is used to train community leaders, social workers, business owners, ministers and volunteers – anyone who wants to help people in poverty work their way to self-sufficiency. “Bridges” leads to a better understanding of poverty, provides a process for helping people out of poverty and encourages restructuring community resources to facilitate and sustain self-sufficiency. This training is to prepare “Allies” for the “Circles” stage of the process.

Getting Ahead
Getting Ahead is a fifteen week curriculum which is used by people seeking to be self-sufficient. Participants learn to use the hidden rules of class to build up financial, emotional and social resources. This allows them to become informed “Leaders” on their journey out of poverty and have goals that will direct them. The course is preparatory for the next and critical stage of “Circles.”

Circles Campaign
The MTM initiative then brings the “Leaders” and the “Allies” together. Each “Circle” consists of a family working to get out of poverty (Leaders) and several members of the middle and upper classes (Allies) who befriend them and lend support. The family is the Circle Leader and sets direction for their weekly activities which will lead them out of poverty. With the help and friendship of their Allies, each family sets and achieves goals unique to their own needs.

This holds so much promise. I only wish I had known this stuff twenty years ago! We did the best we could, but Move the Mountain, Bridges, Getting Ahead and Circles are so effective. That's the past -- now we have an opportunity to truly make a difference.
Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Ending Poverty?

2009-08-31T23:06:00.001-05:00

Move the Mountain is coming to Bartlesville and I have been reading "Until It's Gone: Ending Poverty in our Nation in our Lifetime." I'm not quite a believer yet, but I know we have to work at helping people help themselves out of poverty. As a priest I have been working on that for almost forty years in various ways. That has been especially true since coming to Bartlesville thirteen years ago -- and most recently working in the Poverty Alleviation Coalition.

I must tell you that Move the Mountain (the impossible) has a great approach in using what is called the "Circles Campaign." Here is what it says on the back of Scott Miller's book:

"The poverty rate in the United States has not dropped significantly since 1965. And if we continue to expect government and social services to take care of poverty without the help of individuals, nothing is likely to change. That's why the Circles Campaign has captured the imaginations of people of conscience across the United States, including educators, social workers, community organizers, faith leaders, business leaders, and politicians.

The Circles Campaign is an action plan that brings together the best efforts and resources of individuals, organizations, communities and government in a program proven to raise people out of poverty."

In addition, this approach saves money in social services and contributes to the local economy in some remarkable ways. More on that later.

Move the Mountain and Scott Miller will be in Bartlesville on Thursday, October 1st -- mark your calendars and plan to be there.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Blindsided by Stuff and Sustained by Grace

2009-08-30T21:54:00.002-05:00

Everyone has his or her "stuff" and deals with it the best as possible. Sometimes the "stuff" seems to be compounded by other "stuff" and before long you have more "stuff" going on in life than can be managed. Yet, you have to keep going and doing the best you can while keeping a perpetual lid on all the "stuff." Even more yet, the "stuff" has a way of leaking out and creating more "stuff" with people who happen to be standing nearby.

Are you following this. I agree, the thought process is more than a little messy. But people are hurting all around us because of the "stuff" or "multiple stuff" in their lives. And, suddenly all relationships, even long-term close relationships, are at risk. The "stuff" can cause ugliness to surface in the most unexpected and inappropriate, but real ways. What is one to do?

Well, the last thing that is needed is a reaction in like kind -- then things really can spiral down ever uglier and put precious relationships in jeopardy. Steadfast grace is needed in a very real way -- mixed with patience and wisdom -- and gentle straight talk -- with arms always wide open -- and from St. Francis: not seeking to be consoled as much as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.

I wish I was better at living and responding this way -- that is my prayer. At least st the moment I sense Hope.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Grace in Painting for the Poor

2009-08-29T22:19:00.002-05:00

My friend, Lisa, has wanted churches to provide teams to paint houses of folks in Bartlesville who are not able to keep up their homes themselves. Seemed like a great idea to me and I agreed to ask our Thursday morning Men's Fellowship if they would be interesed.

Our Men's Fellowship has been meeting for three or four years on a weekly basis for Morning Prayer, breaskfast & conversation, and a prayer of intercession. All total there are about fourteen of us -- people come and go. I really love and respect my friends -- and I sense that is true for others.

Frankly, I didn't know what the response might be to plan on painting at least one house in the spring. It didn't take long to find out. After a minute and half of discussion, everyone agreed! After another minute and a half, they/we agreed to start this fall! The discussion continued concerning methods and equipment for some time. But...they/we are ready to paint!

Now these are truly "Doers of the Word and not merely listeners who deceive themselves."

These guys are amazing -- just another facet of St. Luke's. I am so blessed.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Bill 1804 Injustice for Hispanics Again

2009-08-28T21:49:00.002-05:00

The following reference is to an article written by Jan Dreiling in the Friday Examiner-Enterpise in Bartlesville. I heard about this story yesterday from my friend Mili Capaletti who asked me to help this young man. The story is an amazing one and people need to do everything possible to help him -- and wonder how many other Hispanics are being mistreated without any sense of compassion or justice.

I will have more on this next week. For now check the site referenced below or go online to the Examiner-Enterpirse and look at the article on the opinion page entitled "Why did this happen again?"

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Story:
Why did this happen again?

It doesn't take more than watching the evening news to know there are complex and enormous problems in our nation. There are no easy answers.

Nevertheless, there are some things that are fundamentally wrong, in spite of our problems. And, when they happen, all citizens should be aware and should speak out. One of those occurred last week in Bartlesville.

For more of this story, click on or type the URL below:

http://www.examiner-enterprise.com/articles/2009/08/28/opinion/from_the_bench_and_beyond/from934.txt

"Same Kind of Different As Me" Sample

2009-08-27T22:04:00.002-05:00

Several days ago I mentioned this book by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. This is a true story of poverty and wealth finding common ground. Here is a sample about Deborah and a homeless man.

Deborah was always looking for "pearls" wherever she went. "The pearl she found one day glistened in the smile of a grizzled street veteran who lived under a railroad trestle in a cardboard box shaped like a casket. This man ate from garbage cans, an unpleasant truth you knew automatically if you had a nose. His beard was matted with dried vomit and the remnant of his last few meals, and he reeked so strongly of booze that it seemed he might explode if someone got too close and struck a match.

Here was a man whose life seemed disposable. Yet he found a reason to smile. Drawn to him, Deborah offered him a plate of home-cooked food and a prayer. Then, truly puzzled, she asked him,'why are you so happy?'

'I woke up!' he replied, eyes twinkling in his haggard face, 'and that's reason enough to be happy!'"

She rushed home to tell her husband, Ron, what she had discovered that day. From that day on, three words -- "We woke up!" -- were the first three words out of their mouths -- "a tiny prayer of thanksgiving for something we'd always taken for granted, but that a derelict had had the wisdom to see as a blessing fundamental to all others."

Enjoy the fist light of morning.
Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team to Mexico Report

2009-08-26T22:42:00.002-05:00

This Sunday, August 30th, the Mission Team that built a house in Mexico for a poor family will report at St. Luke's, 9:15, Metcalf Hall. I can hardly wait.

The trip took place the first week of July. So much has happened since then it all seems like a blur. But then, when I look at the pictures, and there are many, the memories come flooding back.

Build a three-room house in less than a week still boggles my mind. CPC really has this down to a fine-tuned process. The have had plenty of practice with 621 houses in 23 years. I now believe the less you know about building, the better off you are -- anybody, even old priest, can do this.

I love the fact that the family works with the team all through the building process. With all that we were accomplishing in building the house, we quickly realized we were building a home. And, the new homeowners' lives were blessed in life-changing ways.

Of course the same could be said of us. This was one of those experiences that touched and changed each of us. The process from beginning to end was infused with God's Presence and Grace -- which continues to resound in us. Sunday will be special -- again.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Same Kind of Different as Me -- Move the Mountain

2009-08-24T21:47:00.003-05:00

Well, Lisa Beeman has done it to me again. She shoved a book in my face and said, "You have to read this!" And so, I read "Same Kind of Different as Me" by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. I'm glad I did.

Now it isn't as good as "The Shack" (Lisa's first command), but it is an amazing, true story. The back of the books says: "A dangerous, homeless drifter who grew up picking cotton in virtual slavery. An upscale are dealer accustomed to the world of Armani and Chanel. A gutsy woman with a stubborn dream. A story so incredible no novelist would dare dream it."

The journeys of these two men come together in some remarkable ways. I enjoyed the spiritual aspects that can challenge some of our beliefs about God and stretch us in rather mystical ways.

But there is more -- I found the story insightful regarding people trapped in poverty and the perspectives of those who are much more fortunate in life -- like most of us who use the internet. There is so much we don't understand-- and if we did, could change not only perspectives but also lives -- theirs and ours.

That is why Move the Mountain is coming to Bartlesville starting the last day of September. The time has come to address the issues and truly help people in poverty. I have been working with the Poverty Alleviation Coalition for several years and had the training for Bridges Out of Poverty. I am convinced there are a lot of Rons and Debbies who can help the Denvers of this world. And, perhaps we will.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Carole Sends a Note on General Convention

2009-08-21T00:32:00.002-05:00

The following comment was just received concerning my entry on the General Convention. While I let it be published as a comment, it is buried in the past. I decided it was interesting and worthy of printing now. Thank you, Carole.
Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Carole Horton-Howe has left a new comment on your post "sabbatical, General Convention, Life (real or not)...":

I volunteered at the General Convention in July that took place almost in my backyard and was able to volunteer. I served as a page in the House of Deputies, heard the Presiding Bishop speak to the Daughters of the King, attended Sunday Eucharist and sang “I am the Bread of Life” with 7,500 of my fellow Episcopalians during communion – great experiences!

On the issue of gay/lesbian priests, I feel like I have an experience worth sharing. My parish in Laguna Hills, California had as our rector for 7 years, Fr. Albert, who was a spiritual leader and servant of God in every sense – compassionate, committed, enthusiastic and an inspiring and effective communicator. How many Episcopalians – or any other denomination’s members – say at the end of the service “the sermon was so good I didn’t want it to end.” We did! One more thing about Fr. Albert – he was a gay man. And in the sum total of his work, it just didn’t matter. It was a star in his constellation, but not the only star and not the brightest star. It’s true that when the Bishop sent him to us as Priest in Charge Under Special Circumstances there were people who left the parish solely because he was gay. One housebound parishioner called him some vulgar names and ordered him out of her house when he took communion to her! They missed getting to know a good man and a good priest. People left and pledges dried up. Times were tough. But those of us that stayed are richer in spirit for the gifts that God, who called him to serve, gave him to share with us.

Fr. Bob Evans -- Retiring Again

2009-08-19T22:18:00.003-05:00

Fr. Bob Evans is retiring again -- good for him.

When I came to St. Luke's, Bartlesville, Fr. Bob was the only priest people talked about in endearing terms -- they just loved him. That does not mean the others were necessarily bad. Fr. Bob simply stood out and above all the others as someone special.

When he and Anne came back to Bartlesville, he was already in his second retirement (I think), but priests usually don't know how to stop doing what they love. In fact, he worked as my Associate for almost two years --in the church were he had been Rector! That rarely happens in Church life. But again, he is exceptional.

Then seven and half years ago he became the Priest in Charge at St. Thomas in Pawhuska. Frankly, it was a church divided in about three ways. Fr.Bob went in there and loved them and was "Christ" to them -- and a wonderful healing occurred. I think it is safe to say the last seven years have been the happiest St. Thomas has experienced in a long time.

Fr. Bob and Anne are about to move to St. Simeon in Tulsa -- again retired. I know he will still do his priestly thing there in loving and caring for people. That's just the way he is -- special, very special.

So, for anyone who might read this, we will have a reception for Fr. Bob and Anne this Sunday, the 23rd, from 1:30 to 3:00. Everyone from everywhere are invited to come and love on these two remarkable people who are not only retiring again and moving, but are also celebrating their sixtieth wedding anniversary.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

A Spiritual Plateau or Less?

2009-08-18T21:57:00.002-05:00

A Spiritual Plateau or Less?
One thing that has become increasingly clear to me in recent years, spiritual growth does not happen accidentally. A person must want to grow in his or her relationship with God and be intentional in making it happen. I have seen this over and over again in people who have participated in EFM, Spiritual Discipline Groups and The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.

As one person put it, I am aware that my spiritual life has been growing and evolving in the last year as I have shared in the (spiritual discipline) group. Another participant observed that she is spiritually in a very different place than she was two years ago when she started. Now she experiences God in ways she had mostly missed before. Then there is the husband who said he had always admired his wife’s spiritual depth but could still see the changes as she experienced the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.

This is just a sampling of what I have heard from people who got off their “spiritual plateau or less” by being more intentional in their interest/desire to live into Christ more fully and allow Christ to live more freely in them. Another way to express this may be to seek ways to go beyond the divided life of the sacred and secular to wholeness – the integrated life.

This Sunday in the Discipleship Forum we will consider some options which will be available this fall at St. Luke’s. Perhaps it is time for you to grow beyond where you have been. Come and consider the possibilities.

Or, you may be interested, give me a call at 336-1212. People from the community are welcome to participate -- with no obligation.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

sabbatical, General Convention, Life (real or not)

2009-08-05T21:30:00.000-05:00

Among the benefits of being on sabbatical was the absence of TV, newspapers, email and internet. That included not following the daily drama of General Convention. I didn’t worry about what was happening and I didn’t have to answer questions.

Well, now I am back and I am having to catch up – and talk about the issues. Well, not all the issues – the ones of who we are and what we are doing as a Church don’t generate much discussion. No, the ones many people like to focus on are of course about homosexuals – possible gay Bishops and possible blessing of same-gender unions.

This is exactly the warning of readings from Ephesians and John I mentioned on Sunday regarding the extraordinary experiences of Christ on the mission trip to Mexico – and all the other validating experiences not only in our active and faithful parish but throughout the Episcopal Church. This all about seeking and serving Christ in each other and people all around us – especially those who are marginalized, less fortunate and oppressed. This has been an integral part of our Episcopal ethos and commitment – not unlike Jesus, I might add. If we are not careful we can become earthbound and/or distracted and miss what God is doing in our midst.

It doesn’t help when there is so much misinformation and distortion going around. Some of the delegates to General Convention have said they can’t believe the reports and interpretations they are reading and hearing – not at all like what happened at convention. But of course that is a part of the problem. People with agendas, especially negative agendas, are going to put their own spin on what happened.

What makes it worse is having to deal with editorials like the one by Cal Thomas on July 26th. Personally, I view Cal’s editorial as one of the most slanderous and untruthful writings I have read on any subject! We don’t have to agree with each other, but articles like this make reasonable, productive and civil conversations almost impossible. In fact, there is so very little truth and so much distortion in his editorial that the discussion tends to toward rebuttal of his thoughts and not on the issues that matter. I have been amazed at how many people seem consider him credible. Cal has a history of doing this – especially with the Episcopal Church. The only thing I appreciated about the editorial was including us in his attack on former President Jimmy Carter – a devout and public Christian who happens to be a good Baptist. I consider that good company!

Alas, notice the amount of attention even I give to the “stuff” as I seek to encourage people to stay focused on what is important in our life together as a Church. Christ has not abandoned us nor have we abandoned Christ. At the same time, we have to wrestle with the difficult issues of our time.

That being said, I have decided to use the Discipleship Forum on Sunday to “unpack” what happened at General Convention. Be sure you read “Episcopal Life,” the Bishop’s letter and anything else that may give you helpful information from a variety of perspectives. I already know we won’t all agree – and that is ok. Our life together is not a stake. We will still meet and share at the Altar of our Lord.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Thomas Merton, Sabbatical and Poetry

2009-08-04T22:56:00.002-05:00

In recent years I have come to appreciate poetry as a way of exploring and expressing spirituality. Writing poetry was not my thing -- and still isn't. Yet, while on the third phase of my sabbatical I was encouraged to try. I had been reading and learning about Thomas Merton who found poetry to be a way to express his contemplative life. All this happened at Ring Lake Ranch in Wyoming for two weeks. The experience was life and faith enriching -- and hard to describe. The Presenter for this retreat, The Rev. Dr. Bonnie Thurston, encouraged us to try writing some poetry and gave us some pointers. As my time away came to a close, this seemed to just flow out of my spirit. I call it "The Whisper."

Still blue waters and mountain reflections
Horses unridden, and mosquitoes unwanted
The Whisper is heard.

Boulders huge and less on cliffs and in piles
Sago Lilies and varieties of scat out in nowhere
The Whisper continues.

Marvelously framed by earth, sky and sea
Insights, laughter, quiet and friendships
The Whisper is palatable.

Held hands and quiet conversation
Majestic and wondrous sights shared
Whisper, Whisper

Meanwhile at 1560 Pecan Place
Altar and Blessed Community
What about the Whisper?

Business offices and seasonal stresses
The “Other” side of town and tyranny of the day
Will the Whisper be heard?

Oh Holy One, Whisper still. Whisper still.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Trip Ten, Monday

2009-07-14T12:05:00.001-05:00

Reporting on the Mission Trip
That started with my blog, “Grace Notes” (episcopalbartlesville.org – then scroll down and click on Grace Notes). I tried to give an overview of each day along with some reflections. Please excuse anything that didn’t make sense – I was usually too tired to proof read everything.

Of course members of the team did the sermon on Sunday. I can hardly wait to hear the tape. Then sometime about mid-August we will do a pictorial review with commentary and answer questions. I suspect some pictures will show up on St. Luke’s web page even as they are already available on Scot Harlow’s Facebook.

The Starfish Story
It was early in the morning. The sun had not risen yet. A little boy and his father were walking along a beach. It promised to be a beautiful day with a clear blue shy and calm seas. The night before, a horrendous storm had pounded the beach with fierce waves leaving behind debris, seaweed and starfish. The little boy, knowing the starfish would die out of the water, began to throw them back into the surf. When the sun began to rise, it was drying the starfish and the little boy started to throw them back faster and faster. The parched and dying starfish were grateful for the cool, refreshing water. Soon the boy’s father gestured down the beach and said, “Son, there are hundreds, thousands of starfish. IT DOESN’T MATTER. You can’t save them all.” The little boy picked up another starfish and looking u at his father said, “I know Dad, I can’t save them all.” Then holding up another starfish, he continued, “but to this starfish IT MATTERS!” and he threw it into the water.

Constructores Para Cristo (CPC) uses this often told story regarding the seemingly overwhelming number of people in need at home, around the world and in Piedras Negras, Mexico. We can’t help everyone. But for those we can, IT MATTERS a lot – just ask the families living in the 621 houses built by CPC and people like St. Luke’s.

Thrown any starfish lately?

Thanks for loving Lynda – and me
My participation on the Mission Team was in question up to the last week. Lynda is still recovering from her surgery – healing the nerves takes a long time. She has been improving but there are some things she still can’t do without a lot of pain – like driving. Her mother had decided to stay with us another week to keep Lynda company – and that was a good thing. I grilled some things and put them in the freezer.

However, if this was going to work Lynda would need support from some friends. So, I put out a request for people who would take her to lunch each day and help her with a few errands. In no time people started claiming a day. In fact there were so many, they started pairing up! And, several people provided some evening meals! I cannot tell you how much the helped – and all the more what this response meant to both of us. To be sure, I didn’t have to worry about Lynda nearly so much because I knew she was surrounded with love. An important sub-story to the Mission Trip – and I am so very grateful. You are remarkable – You are Church!

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team Nine, Sunday

2009-07-12T23:13:00.002-05:00

Now I want to say something to each of the team members.(I actually started this last night, but wanted it together) Much of this I have told them personally, but I want everyone to know how I am so very fond of each team member.

Steve Clark – Steve you were a co-chair of the Search Committee when I came to St. Luke’s and our friendship means more than I can tell you. This week took that friendship to an even deeper level. You were remarkable as our Construction Coordinator. You have instructions, commands, affirmations and answers to questions as needed – you always seem to know the leadership needed. Plus you did a heck of a lot of work yourself along side of us. And think, it wasn’t all that long ago we almost lost you – several times! Even after you by-pass surgery, who would have thought you would be able to go on this mission trip? You are a gift from God!

Jim Grillot – Jim, you brought a lot of gifts to the mission team with a combination of an over-thinking engineer and intentional worker. Giving yourself to the CPC way of building a house (not needing or wanting our suggestions) was hard for you – and you managed – most of the time – that is remarkable. Working with you each day deepened my appreciation for you and enriched our friendship. You were an important part of the team and life would have been much more difficult without you. What I value most about you is your heart of gold!

Jeff Birk – Jeff, as our Spiritual Leader, I experienced you as gentle and faithful soul. Your leadership in the liturgies on the project site and in the evenings allowed me to simply be a part of the team – that was a gift to me as well as team and I am grateful. In addition you worked tirelessly with every task you were given. You were willing to tackle any thrown your way – and always did it well. I also enjoyed watching you play ball with the kids. Even after all the work, you were pretty quick getting to the ball. You are very special.

Bob Wesneski – Bob, you have worn many hats at St. Luke’s since I arrive almost thirteen years ago – Treasurer, Teacher, Acolyte Master, Layreader, Young Disciple Sponsor and more. As a result we have been friends for a long time, but too often only in snatches of time here and there. This week was a gift in many ways and one of them was to spend so much time with you and our friendship grew. On Thursday we became the “Chinking Brothers” – one of the highlights of the trip for me. In addition, every day you quietly and humbly did everything you were asked to do – and found more to do on you own. From my heart I thank you for being a brother to me.

Susie Clark – Susie you were a remarkable Health Coordinator. What a delight to see our “Parish Nurse” provide loving health care all week – especially keeping everyone hydrated! I am glad I won’t have to hear you yell, “Drink, drink, drink” for another year. Of course you had other pet phrases like “Is everybody OK?” and “Any headaches?” and “Do you need a wet cloth?” You were persistent in your “loving” care and our health was good all week! You also provided lots of laughs – mostly at your expense, but only because you are so loved by everyone on the team. What a nurse! What a friend!

Shawn Clem – Shawn, you are a man anyone would want on his team – in fact we were on the E-wall team together – and I’m so glad. First, because you were great and second, because I get to know you better. As a fresh high school graduate, you were a hard worker, you did what you were asked to do, learned quickly how to do different tasks (with you mentor, Jim), and you were clearly a team player. In addition, you singing and playing the guitar really added to our worship experiences. I am proud of how you have grown up at St. Luke’s with a heart for Christ and willing hands to work and play music. You are truly a Young Disciple!

Tim Simmons – Tim, you are strong of body and strong in heart! You had a way of lifting everyone’s spirits when they were working around you. You were able to everything you were assigned and did it very well. That included being our primary “taxi driver” to and from the house. You brought a new dimension to the eating experience – you love to eat and have amazing sounds to express your pleasure – that was fun. What impressed me most about you is your “servant’s heart.” When you and Nicole were trying to remember the words for the song, “Sanctuary,” you said you were touched by the words of the last verse when it says, “And when our life’s work is done, how I long to hear my God say, ‘faithful servant well done.’” Well Tim, it is true for this mission trip – you are a good and faithful servant! Amen!

Nicole Simmons – Nicole, your insistence that we sing “Sanctuary” was right on! You reflected that song in your hard work all week – Christ truly found a sanctuary in you – you were a testimony to our family and the team. And like your Father, you were a good and faithful servant every step of the way. As one of our Young Disciples, you were the first to articulate the wonderful truth that God was present at the work site blessing our work, our family and each of us. I especially felt that way when you anointed my hands at the first Eucharist. You are an inspiration!

Robert Clark – Robert, I have known you since you were seven – always a loving and embracing little boy. This week I enjoy watching and working with you as a young man. You always had an encouraging word for your co-workers. You also worked hard right along with the rest of the team. When you didn’t know what to do, you asked questions and got to work. You really helped by playing ball with the children of our family which helped them become a part of our family. I am so glad you were on the team!

Scot Harlow – Scot, one of the graces of this week was getting to know you better. I liked that. In addition, you really gave yourself to the project in a big way. You were at the instructional meetings before breakfast each morning (5:45) and were big help to Steve and the whole team. Your ability to read the CPC plans and organize the work was evident numerous times along the way. No talk was too much or too little for you. Hot as it was, you worked hard from beginning to end. I also enjoyed watching you with Hayden – you are a good father. Thank you, friend for being on the team. God bless you!

Hayden Harlow – Hayden, what a great Father/Son team! Having said that, you held your own in doing everything you were asked to do. Some people back home questioned letting our children go to Mexico on the team. You proved that this was not only a learning experience for you (which you will never forget), but so much more. You were important to the team as a whole. That is why I found it so meaningful to have you serve Holy Communion to me last night. Thanks, Hayden. You are special!

Liz Cone – Liz, Dick (Kane) is so pleased you took his place on the team as his granddaughter. I suspect he is all the more pleased that your work and spirit (much like his) were more than sufficient o have you on the Mission Team. You went beyond being a “teammate” with us to becoming a part of the family. You are strong, energetic and caring – a great combination. You remind me a great deal of a man I respect most highly. You and Emma have truly honored him and blessed us. What a gift!

Emma Cone – Emma, what a trooper you are! Your great-grandfather is very proud of you as he smiles from Heaven. When we needed help getting the water and Quick Fix to the crew every twenty minutes, you were there. You delighted in going around spraying water in people’s faces – and we delighted in you. Your smile, indeed your laughter, helped maintain a good spirits all week – and that doesn’t include all the singing. Your entertainment lightened our souls. Thanks for being on the Team. Just like our Heavenly Father, I am very fond of you.

Annenke Borg – Writing to you right after Emma seems right. After all, there were times when the two of you appeared to be joined at the hip – especially when you were singing and dancing! At the same time, you held your own as a member of the Mission Team in every way. Under Nurse Susie command you helped keep everyone hydrated in a sweet and serving way – always smiling. Clearly you are a St. Luke’s Young Disciple. You have made your priest very proud of you. You are a gift of radiant love.

Brad Borg – Brad, you are a hard and faithful worker who also knows how to play and love. I value everything you did in helping build the house – you really pushed yourself at times and it made a difference. Yet I value all the more your relationship with the two sons in the family – Yahir and Yonathon. You won their hearts even as they captured yours. That brought all of us, the Team and Family, closer to each other. Your impact on the week was huge! Those boys will never forget you -- nor will I.

Nancy Megee – Nancy, it blew me away when I learned you were going on the mission trip. I was so pleased. My only disappointment, and I know yours as well, was that Emily could not come with you. As our Food Coordinator, you out did yourself. No one could have done better. Plus, when we needed you to help with the water and Quick Fix, you didn’t hesitate – you were there! I don’t know how many errands you ran for the Team’s work or to buy food. However, there is an indication of how important you were to the Team. I understand that the people at the HEB store knew you buy name – even if they didn’t know English! I am so glad you went with us. You are a gift of God and I am so grateful.

Lisa Beeman – Lisa, otherwise known as “Beautiful” (inside story), you are exceptional! As a co-coordinator for the Team, you truly helped make our Mission Trip happen. You have a passion for Outreach in the Church in more than a financial way – in a hands-on way – making a difference personally. I love that about you. This week you took on tasks you had never tried before and did very well. When you and Mike were sweeping the floors on the last morning, you created a great cloud of dust. I knew that cloud of dust was your joy in knowing you helped build a house for our family. That joy was Christ celebrating within you. Keep feeding the passion and enriching the joy – you are and will make a difference.

Mike Watkins – Mike, this week you demonstrate what EFM (Education for Ministry) is all about in concrete ways – in both literal and practical ways. The EFM Mentor was truly a minister every day and in every way. You quietly and methodically went about different tasks as a humble servant – and Christ could be seen in you. You managed our money for us, but unlike Judas, you faithfully gave yourself to the Mission Team and our family – and thus to God. I am confident that St. Ignatius would be proud of you – I know I am. What a servant!

Lauri Watkins – Lauri, this all started when you saw Marsha Sauter’s pictures of Good Shepherd’s trip to build a house. You came to me and said you thought we could and should do this. The rest is history, as they say, filled with hard work, compassion, success and joy. As a co-coordinator, you lived what it means to be a servant leader – big time. This should be on your application for Deacon formation – because you are already living as one! (Actually, it was in my letter to the Bishop) I loved seeing you on the roof of the house. As with all your many tasks throughout the week, there was both intensity and joy on your face. The love and ministry of Christ came through you over and over. Thank you! Bless you!

Each member of the team is a Gift of God who took on the form of a servant and became incarnational -- Christ to the Family, each other on the Team and to me. My heart continues to be full of joy and gratitude.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team Eight, Saturday

2009-07-11T23:55:00.002-05:00

Mission Eight

1. Here is the official spelling of our family’s names:
Silvia Carvenas Romero (the last two names constitute her last name)
(She goes be Silvi)
Yonathan, age 11
Yahir, age 5
Alondra, age 8 months

Families have to fill out an application to be considered for a house. They must already own the property and have one hundred dollars saved. A case worker does on the field work talking with extended family members, neighbors, friends – anyone who might know them. The people being considered are not the poorest of the poor (we did not get to see that area of town and cannot imagine what it must be like). They must have the capacity and desire to be self-sufficient.

All the approved applicants’ names are put in a “hat” for a drawing. Possible substitutes are also drawn in the event that someone drops out or falls below the expectations. Those chosen must work to help build the house starting with the foundation and then work with the team all week (Silvi was there everyday and worked hard). The family must occupy the house within thirty days and live there at least three years before the house is fully owned by them. Until that time they may not sell or rent the house. There is considerable follow up to check on the family and help them with particular needs.

2. Completing my Friday report:
In the afternoon most of us toured CPC Medical and Vet Clinic which is open when they have doctors volunteer using whatever is their specialty. There is also a new preschool upstairs which is a nice as any preschool you would see in Bartlesville – we were impressed. In another building they have started a library which is being used to encourage reading which is a real need in that community. (Silvi reads very well) The work of CPC includes housing (their strength), education and medical care. In addition, CPC provides school supplies (sound familiar?) and new shoes for children. Their program is growing in all the phases because the need is so great.

In the evening we had an appreciation banquet with all the teams and staff present. The food was great and the program was uplifting. John Martin, the young and capable Executive Director share more of the concepts, values and faith within the work of CPC. Of course he thanked everyone for building the houses and made a pitch for next year. Several people shared what the week meant to them. The highlight of the banquet for me was receiving my first concrete block charm – and even more, a cross to wear around our necks made by craftsman in Spain made of nails.

The real highlight of the evening happened when we had a closing Eucharist with our Mission Team. We started with a reading from the Gospel of John where Jesus asks Peter if he loved him and then told them to feed his sheep. Then I asked them to share how they experienced Christ or saw Christ during the week. I cannot begin to tell you the specifics and depth of what was said, but I can tell you I was profoundly moved by what individuals shared – God’s grace poured out upon us. I encourage you to ask the team members about their experience and listen to what they have to say.

3. We arrived home safely and in good spirits – though tired (surprise, surprise). We made the trip in about thirteen hours and traveled round trip about 1500 miles.

That’s all I can do tonight. I’ll have to finish tomorrow night while I am on the road. Sorry, no time or energy for proofing again to night. Please forgive my mistakes.
Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team Seven, Friday

2009-07-10T22:45:00.000-05:00

Mission Seven

The extra hour of sleep didn’t work very well for me. I woke up at our usual time – 5:15. Normally, I hate getting up in the “fives,” but this week I was happy to get up that early and get started. Lynda will likely want me back to our usual schedule rather quickly.

This has been an incredible journey with many highlights as well as some lesser ones – like Susie taking the girls down the street where another house was being built to use the “potty” next door – a gift from that family to the teams. As they passed through the kitchen, they spotted a dead rooster on the counter waiting to be plucked and cooked. As we ate Church’s Chicken for lunch we asked Susie how her “rooster” tasted – she wasn’t amused.

After our trip to the market (in a very round about way), whenever we go somewhere the sarcastic cry goes up, “Check the map!” The counter cry responds, “Forget the map. Just go a ways down the street and you will see it on the left!”

We have been royally entertained by the singing of Anneke and Emma – sometimes Hayden. Frequently they would go on and on and on – but they are entertaining and mostly on pitch – and always fun. They also worked hard on the team.

We voted Tim as the most likely to be mistaken as a Mexican taxi cab driver – actually he was quite good and very patient. Having ridden with Nancy to get ice once, she could hold her own with Tim and most Mexican drivers.

I loved the image of Jim Grillot sitting on top of the roof drilling holes for the “J” hooks. Once between holes he pulled out his cell phone to check the signal. He yelled, “Take a picture of me on the roof. I have a full signal!” I don’t know what taking his picture had to do with a full signal, but he was clearly happy.

The journey has been filled with laughter, hard work, love and teamwork – and today, tears of compassion, gratitude and joy. Today was understandably the highlight of the week, but it surpassed all expectations as Christ was present in so many ways.

We arrived at the house today about 8:30 and it was only 88 degrees. We immediately got to work cleaning us the site. All the extra concrete blocks, scaffolding, buckets and tubs were stacked by the curb. Within an hour a truck with a trailer came and we loaded everything. Meanwhile, other team members were cleaning the window frames and walls where concrete or SBC got spattered. Cleaning the floors was a major project between all the spills of various compounds and dirt up on dirt. Mike and Lisa swept and swept again for over an hour with clouds of dust blowing out the back door. At the same time a crew was going around touching up the stucco (SBC).

A spirit of accomplishment and joy was evident all around. Yhid showed up at the site with his ball glove and a baseball size rubber ball. Someone found a stick to use as a bat and the games began. Various persons took turns pitching and batting with the kids. I don’t know who was having the most fun – the kids or the adults. Happy faces were everywhere.

Then came the time for the blessing of the house. Words cannot describe the power of the next forty-five minutes. Everyone stood in a circle in the front yard with the family. We did the liturgy which included scriptures and prayers in Spanish and English. Then keys to the house were passed around the circle with everyone adding a blessing. Silvi unlocked the door and went inside. The cheers could have been heard in Texas!

Everyone went inside. I said a prayer of sanctification over a bucket of water and using a sponge which we had used on the stucco, I began the house blessing – the front door, bedrooms, back door & yard, kitchen and living room – and of course everyone in the house – water was everywhere and was the joy. Lauri gave our handprint banner to the family and they in turn gave one to us (also one for Liz and Emma for their church). Jeff presented a Bible in Spanish to Silvi. Nicole gave them a picture album of the Mission Team and the building of the house. With each gift the smile on Silvi’s face got bigger and bigger – and I think our hearts got bigger and bigger by the minute.

Then Lauri present the family with a silver cross which had been sent by Barbara Martin on behalf of St. Luke’s. That is the moment that will forever be burned into my soul. When Silvi saw the cross, she could not hold back the tears any longer. Even the older son, Yoni, began to cry. And, as you might guess, there were tears of joy – glory on every face. With overwhelmed spirits we sang, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…” Oh my, what a moment that was!

But, we were not finished yet. We filed out into the front yard and planted an orange tree provided by CPC. Mike gave us a little devotional on making a house in to a home with God’s love and how the fruit tree represented everything we need in life. He then mixed water from Mexico and water from the United States illustrating there is no difference – that in the Kingdom of God there are no borders – we are all children of God. Then everyone took turns watering the tree with the mixed water starting with the family.

We then ate lunch with the family in their new home. Then came the goodbyes. We are all anxious to get home now that our work is done. And yet, saying good bye was strangely hard and happy at the same time.

Well done good and faith servants – Mission Team 2009.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

P.S. One more installment soon. Too tired tonight – no proofing – sorry. Leaving at 5:00. Ready for home.

Mission Team Six, Thursday

2009-07-09T23:04:00.002-05:00

Mission Six

Wow! What a day! The house is finished – all most. Tomorrow, Friday, we will do some cleaning up and touching up. Then we will have the blessing of the house and lunch with our family.

Today was another remarkable day of working in harmony with each other on some challenging tasks. First and foremost was putting the roof on the house. CPC has a system for every step of the building process based on the experience of now having built 620 houses. This was strictly true for putting on the roof – no one was allowed to speak during this procedure except for Steve Clark, our Construction Coordinator. That’s right no one – including Susie and she did very well.

The roof consists of seven panels which were twenty-four feet long and about three and half feet wide – and in the shape of a W (more or less) with interlocking “wings.” The teamwork began with unloading the panels from the trailer with people lined up on each side with clear instructions for how to handle the panels – they were heavy.

Scaffolding was erected inside and outside the front and back walls with designated “tall” people along with designated “spotters” who made sure people didn’t fall when lifting the panels into place. The team bringing the panels into the house even went through a silent dry run to be sure everyone knew what they were doing. We silently rose to the occasion and putting the roof on the house went as smooth as silk. We broke the silence by cheering for ourselves – our house had a roof.

Then some of the lighter people went on the roof and drilled holes to bolt the roof to the house. Everyone on that project had to wear masks for the drilling – you will have to see the picture of Liz Cone in her special mask – she looked like some alien form with a drill in her hand.

Meanwhile the rest us began “chinking” which involved placing broken pieces of concrete blocks and rocks into the gaps created by the slant and form of the roof panels. This was like putting together a puzzle where none of the pieces exactly fit. Once the gaps were filled, we put cement over the rocks to make a smooth surface. When it was mostly dry, we applied the now familiar SBC (surface bonding cement). This included the top of every wall inside and out. We were like happy ants busy going from job to job and helping each other.

From the time the roof was on, people pause periodically and say something like, “This really is a house” -- “I can’t believe we actually built a house!” – “Isn’t this wonderful?” There was an atmosphere of satisfaction and joy all day long. We know this will be so good for our family and we are so grateful to be a part in making it happen. And, there is already talk of coming back next year.

Because tomorrow is a light day, we get to sleep an extra hour in the morning – no more breakfast under the stars. Tomorrow will be a day of celebration with the blessing of the house and lunch with Silvi and the kids. In the evening there will be a banquet involving all three of the teams here this week.

Before I close tonight I want to mention the CPC Staff. I think there are eight or ten staff members here this week. Only two of them are paid staff members with CPC. The rest are volunteers! I think they are all in their twenties, and they are very bright, energetic, knowledgeable (of the CPC way of doing things), patient, happy, compassionate and committed – and they do this for free because they believe in helping the “least of those among us” and sharing God’s love in personal and tangible ways. I cannot say enough about how they have impressed me/us – especially Mike, the staff persona assigned to us. We are all rookies at this, but he has patient and affirming every step of the way.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team Five, Wednesday

2009-07-08T22:37:00.001-05:00

Mission Five

I have enjoyed evening dinners or musicals “under the stars,” but this week it has been breakfast under the stars – and this morning a full moon was included (as well as the smell of the “smudge pots” burning along the sidewalk). We circled with the staff and the two other teams for announcements and prayer at 6:00 and then lined up for breakfast. This morning we had scrambled eggs, sausage, grits and a bagel – we are not going hungry. Thanks to the rain the temperature was only in the 70’s – up to 100 degrees by noon which we now consider rather cool.

As we started our work on the house today, the CPC construction staff gathered us in front of the house. They announced that our work on the house and for the Lord and our Family had passed inspection. This house would truly be a blessing for this family for many years to come. Then Mike, our guy, put a Happy Face sticker on the front door – and we all cheered.

Then the day just got better and better. I’ll try to explain what we did in building the house today and then share the value added afterwards. We started by making our scaffolding higher (four blocks) along each of the walls. Then we placed “U” concrete blocks on top of the walls with the U up making a channel for the re-bar. The re-bar was carefully put in place and tied to other. Everything had to be just right before the concrete was mixed and ready to be poured.

Everyone took a break because the next phase would require maximum teamwork. There were two teams going opposite directions from the same starting point. First, someone had to spray water to get the blocks good and wet. Second, the next person would pour the concrete into the “U.” The third person had to use a trowel to tamp the concrete around the re-bar and then smooth the top. A bucket line kept the concrete on hand at every point. The water people kept bringing our water and Quick Fix. At the last we added one more row of whole blocks across the back wall. This will provide the slant for the roof. Everything went without a hitch. We were fine tuned Team!!!

Now let me try telling you something of what Mike, our Construction Coordinator, told us before we started to day. (Jay of CPC translated for Silvi and the children) After giving us our instructions he explained that the re-bar circling the house encased in concrete would connect and give strength to the entire house. This is just like God’s love which binds us together no matter who we are or where we live. When we live in God’s love we are stronger personally and at the same time truly care for each other. Building this house together with the family is a miracle of God through loving hearts and hands. Use this love and commitment to help you work together this morning -- and we did.

As I was up on the scaffolding tamping and smoothing the concrete, I found myself singing, “Surely the Presence of the Lord is in this place. I can feel his might power and his grace. I can hear the rush of angels’ wings. I see glory in every face. Surely the Presence of the Lord is in this place.” How true it was!

We had the afternoon off. So, after our siesta (I always liked power naps, but siestas are so much better), we took off for “The Market.” The map given to us by CPC was not even close to scale. Plus, they told us it was just a little ways down the street and on the left. It took us almost an hour driving in circles and making many cell phone calls to finally get there. The Market turned out to be an open air series of souvenir shops – plus the temperature had climbed to 120 degrees. Only the shade, a breeze and enjoying each other made it tolerable.

Before we had compline tonight we shared what being in Mexico and building the house meant to us. I am amazed at the love, insight and depth of this Team – what wonderful people! We then signed a Spanish Bible which will be given to the family on Friday. Plus, we outlined our handprints on cloth and signed our names. This will also be given to the family at the blessing of the house on Friday.

All in all this was another incredible day. Tomorrow—the Roof!

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team Four, Tuesday

2009-07-07T22:34:00.001-05:00

Mission Four

Getting up wasn’t as difficult as I thought it might be this morning. All the body parts seemed to be working fairly well – which sounded true for most of our folks. That may not be true in the morning, but we will see – lifting concrete blocks over my head was beyond anything I did even in my youth!

Mthr. Andrea called me about midnight last night to report on Don and Shirley Ball which was what I had asked her to do regardless of the hour. This morning I was able to share with the Team the confirmed news that their injuries were not life threatening. We offered prayers of thanksgiving as well as concern – especially in the light of Shirley’s father dying in the wreck. I was able to talk with Shirley at St. John’s this evening. I understand Don is being moved from ICU to share Shirley’s room.

We made a lot of progress this morning – starting of course with Morning Prayer. Each morning the homeowner and/or one of the Mexican workers reads the scripture in Spanish – then a team member reads it in English. We close saying the same prayer in Spanish and English at the same time. I don’t know why, but I especially sense God’s presence during that prayer.

We added three more rows of concrete blocks this morning. That is where the lifting the blocks over head came into play. We used scaffolding in the corners where we continued putting concrete along with re-bar. This called for more of the SBC (stucco type bonding material). This requires wetting the walls on both sides, applying the SBC and sponging to make it even. We are actually starting to get pretty good at it.

We also installed three windows and two doors. Great care was given in building the walls to prepare for these – and they fit! The windows come with bars which is typical here. The doors are metal with locks and look quite nice – and secure.

In many ways today was an extension of yesterday’s work so we knew more of what to do – just at higher levels. The Team continues to work well together – very encouraging and helpful to each other – indeed there is a loving atmosphere all the time! They are amazing people.

As usual it was hot, but only up to 100 degrees this morning. This afternoon, following our siesta, started out a bit oppressive at 120 degrees, but some clouds brought it down to about 110 – much more acceptable. (Actually, it is storming outside right now and much cooler) Great care is given to keeping everyone hydrated. Everyone has a plastic bottle which is brought to him or her with either cold water or “Quick Fix” – a water solution of orange juice and salt. We also get sprayed on a regular basis – the kids love doing that assignment. Cold wash cloths and wet bandanas are regulars. I think we are using a case of sun screen every day.

I think I have the names straight for the family but don’t hold me to the spelling. Silvi is the mother. Jonathon is twelve, Yid is five. And, Alona is eight months. Silvi had to own the property in order to qualify for the CPC house. As you will see from the pictures, there not much one can say for the neighborhood. Having said that, life for Silvi and her children is about to improve in a dramatic way.

This afternoon we took turns reading the prayers written by people from St. Luke’s and placing them inside the walls of the house. A CPC staff member translated the prayers for Silvi as they were read. We gave her the option putting the colorful Prayer Chain in the wall or keeping them for her house. She chose to keep them. When we left the work site, the Prayer Chain was in the front window.

We are all headed for bed to get ready for another day. We do so with a sense that it is right for us to be here – to build a house, to love a family, to work loved by each other and God – to serve Christ in and through it all.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Mission Team Three, Monday

2009-07-06T22:17:00.000-05:00

Mission Three

Today was one amazing day! Breakfast was at 6:00 – actually getting instructions for the day first along with needed announcements. We left for the building site at 7:30 with the temperature already at 88 degrees. When we arrived we saw the slab for the twenty-one by twenty-one feet house and the initial room of concrete blocks outlining the outside and the three rooms inside.

We were greeted by our staff guide, Mike, and our family. We are building the house for a single mother with three young children (I am still learning their names). They were shy at first, but warmed up through the day – in friendship and heat. The mother worked right along side us and made quite a contribution to our progress. She speaks very little if any English. Frankly, I only know how to smile in Spanish!

We started the day with Morning Prayer. Our new friend read the Bible in Spanish and seemed pleased to participate.

Our first task was to move the concrete blocks in position for constructing the walls – nine hundred of them! We formed our lines and got to work. Then each of the five teams began constructing their walls. The blocks are “dry stacked” except at the corners, windows and doors. The holes in those places are reinforced with iron bar and concrete mix. We got to the targeted eighth level – with about four to go.

Following lunch, we had our siesta time until 3:30. We returned to the site and began applying the Surface Bonding Cement (SBC) – looks similar to stucco, but is much stronger and holds everything together. We broke up into teams with a water person, SBC applying person and a sponge person. We finished our work on schedule and then marveled at the sight of what looked very much like a house!

This was a tough day, but not as bad as we anticipated – though in the morning when we try to get out of bed we may think differently. We were a tired but happy group tonight at dinner under the big CPC tent and for Compline.

I am so very happy for our family – clearly they are excited. I am also so very pleased with our Mission Team – they are remarkable, hard-working and loving people. I am glad we are here for this experience.

We are all rookies at this. One team working here this week has representatives from several American Baptist Churches in Virginia and were here last year. There is also a team from St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Dunwoody, Georgia. The have had teams for over twenty years! Though time is limited, we are getting to know them and hear their stories.

Many of us on the team were upset to hear that our long-time friends, Don and Shirley Ball were in a serious car accident today. We have limited information, but understand that both of them have been seriously hurt. Shirley’s father died in the accident. Don is at St. John’s in Tulsa and they are trying to LifeFlight Shirley there also. Our hearts are heavy and our prayers continuous.

On the lighter side, communication is challenging. People have been trying out their Spanish. Mike and Lauri have been learning a bit of Spanish in recent years because of their daughter and son-in-law. Mike was driving us back in the van for lunch. Waiting at a traffic light, a woman jumped out of a car to give Mike some religious materials. He became flustered trying to open the window and watching the traffic light at the same time. Finally he opened the door, took the booklet from the smiling woman and politely said, “Merci!” There was a moment of silence in the van and then the van shook with our laughter.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

P.S. No proofing tonight – had enough for the day.

Part Two: Mission to Build, Sunday

2009-07-05T21:48:00.001-05:00

We have arrived at Piedras Negras, Mexico!

The final leg of the trip was as uneventful as the first big one – and that was great.

We did have a moment of enlightenment with Susie (Clark). We were traveling in typical looking south Texas/Mexico border country – rolling dry and hot hills, lots of cactus plants and small tree/bush-like growth. The ranch land was fenced on both sides of the road. Periodically there would be a “deer stand” which people mentioned several times along the way. Finally, Susie said, “I think it is so nice that people feed the deer out here.” You can well imagine her reaction in the moment of enlightenment when someone explained that a deer stand was for the hunter and the purpose was to shoot the deer. Susie and everyone had tears in their eyes – but for different reasons.

Meanwhile we are staying in a Quality Inn Hotel in a wing built for CPC. Everything is as nice as you would see in the U.S. We arrived about 3:00 and after quick introductions and room assignments, we stayed in our rooms to cool off and rest. The temperature according to the van was 123 degrees. We happily went to our rooms – though some went swimming. As for me, I napped off and on while watching Tiger on ESPN.

We had our orientation with the staff this afternoon – nine young people. Most are still in college – the others fresh out. They are all in their twenties – experienced and enthusiastic about this mission endeavor. They are committed, as is CPC, to breaking the cycle of poverty through housing, medical care and education (same as the need at home). Obviously we are in the house-building and witness link, but are pleased with the other dimensions of this ministry.

We had another great dinner out tonight. This time we went to Casa Grande and had a feast of Mexican food – the place was beautiful and the food wonderful. We also got to know our staff guide, Michael, who will be with us throughout the week. I can already tell he is very special.

Tonight we closed the day with Compline. We are very aware of the prayers of folks back home and are grateful. Indeed, the colorful Prayer Chain was present tonight and will be hanging on the project site all week.

We are also aware that the Spirit of Christ is with and in us as well as the family we are serving. The Eucharist and anointing of hands this morning was powerful. We are prepared to let Christ bless others through us – we are already being blessed with grace upon grace.

Tomorrow, Monday, is supposed to be our hardest day – moving the concrete blocks from a huge pile to the project site and starting the walls. The concrete slab has already been poured and the first level of blocks put in place. So things will start happening very quickly – but not until we have Morning Prayer with our family on the site. We are excited and ready.

But first, sleep. We will circle up with two other teams (more about them tomorrow) at 6:00 in the morning for announcements and prayer. Then we eat breakfast before heading to the site at 7:00.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Part One: Mission to Piedras Negras

2009-07-04T22:33:00.001-05:00

Amazingly, the Mission Team for Mexico left on time this morning at 6:30 just as the rain arrived. By the time we left the Bartlesville city limits the rain stopped. The skies cleared and the temperatures climbed to 104 as we arrived in San Antonio eleven hours later. The trip was uneventful with the exception of a few wrong turns – even with the sweet voice from the GPS!

We had a wonderful lunch at a rest stop south of Dallas and an even better dinner in San Antonio. Most importantly there was a sense of the team forming not only in agenda but also in spirit. This team of twenty is approaching our mission with a sense of expectancy – and that is exciting.

Tomorrow morning, Sunday, we will celebrate the Holy Eucharist here at the hotel. Jeff Birk, our worship leader has chosen “The Servant Song” as our theme song for this mission endeavor – seeing Christ in each other – serving Christ in the family we are helping – experiencing Christ every moment. In the morning as we conclude Holy Communion I will anoint the hands of each team members in anticipation of Jesus’ ministry being extended in them.

We will leave for Piedras Negras, Mexico at 11:00 in the morning and drive about three hours to Eagle Pass for last minute shopping. Then we will cross the border and go to our motel. After a time of orientation we will see the site for our building project and perhaps meet our family. Everything will be in anticipation of a big day on Monday – moving the concrete blocks to the site and starting the walls.

CPC has clear instructions and organization for the building of the house. Our leadership chart looks like this:
Group Leaders: Lauri Watkins and Lisa Beeman
Health Coordinator: Susie Clark
Construction Coordinator: Steve Clark
Food Coordinator: Nancy Megee
Worship Leader: Jeff Birk
Transportation and Lodging Coordinator: Bob Wesneski
Money Managers: Bob Wesneski and Mike Watkins
Fr. Lee: Nothing (cool)

Pray for a restful night and good preparation for our mission tomorrow.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

The Eve of Mission Trip to Piedras Negras, Mexico

2009-07-03T21:54:00.001-05:00

I am writing this column on the eve of the Mission Trip to Mexico. We started working this direction about a year ago. Time has flown by in a wonderful way. Now it is time to build a house for a family living in poverty. This will be a life-changing experience for them – and for us.

While others have been doing this for years (now over 600 homes), our interest was sparked by our Oklahoma State Legislature in passing a bill on (illegal) Immigration. The more we learned about the bill, the more I was appalled by the injustice and insensitivity reflected in this law – along with many other people at St. Luke’s. When a series on the subject in the Discipleship Forum concluded, the participants adopted a revised statement which had been drafted by Dick Kane. I will never forget the changes in his perspective over the weeks and his leadership on this difficult peace and justice issue.

We also agreed that we needed to be active in expressing our views to our state legislators. In addition, we began to explore the possibilities of working with Constructores Para Cristo (Builder through Christ) in building a house in Piedras Negras, Mexico for a poor family. Meanwhile, an Outreach gift was given to Casa Hispania here in Bartlesville which in turn led to a Circle of Friends for a Hispanic family. The Circle continues to work with our friends – in fact they were at Mthr. Mary Lou’s farewell luncheon.

And that brings us to the next adventure. We are going to Piedras Negras, in the state of Coahuila, about 150 miles southwest of San Antonio. The name means “black rocks,” as in coal. It is a manufacturing center. The official census from 2000 was 128,000. More recent estimates put the population at 250,000. We will be staying at Casa Blanca Motel. The facility was built by CPC for the teams. Most of our meals will be served there. Each room has two twin beds and a shower. The facilities are nice and clean – and air conditioned! There is even a swimming pool!

As we leave for Mexico, we are grateful for everyone who signed up for the Prayer Chain. I know others will also be praying for the team. We are also aware of the financial support which totaled over $9,000 – a third from the parish, a third from the team and the final third from a ConocoPhillips grant (supporting six CP employees and a worthy cause).

Please remember us in prayer by name: Steve, Susie and Robert Clark, Tim and Nicole Simmons, Jeff Birk, Bob Wesneski, Jim Grillot, Lisa Beeman, Nancy Megee, Shawn Clem, Scot and Hayden Harlow, Brad and Anneke Borg, Liz and Emma Cone, Mike and Lauri Watkins and your tag-along priest.

One last note: Dick Kane had originally signed up to be on the mission team – we were concerned and excited at the same time that Dick wanted to go. Regrettably, Dick died two months ago after doctors discovered he had advanced cancer. In /Dick’s honor, his granddaughter, Liz Cone and his great-granddaughter, Emma, joined the team for Mexico. What a tribute!

Grace is already happening!

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

From Beyond The Shack

2009-06-23T22:46:00.000-05:00

(If I had titled my sermon on Sunday, I might have used something like “From Beyond The Shack.” I used the story of an airplane encounter between Paul Young, author of The Shack, and a United Methodist minister, The Rev. Jessica Moffatt Seay. She had been at First United Methodist Church in Bixby and recently was assigned to Ardmore – which was why I could not find her name for Sunday).

Having just met, Jessica and Paul settled into their seats. They talked about The Shack for a while and then she asked him what was new with him beyond his book. He said, “I am learning to stay inside the grace given me for one day.” (Now, there is nothing overly new about that statement, but the way he framed it was fresh and meaningful.)

Paul went on to say that for years he had imaginary fears about things that never happened. He suffered continually about things that did not exist – at least not yet – and most never happened. While many people have similar experiences, he had allowed them to almost take over his life and cause him much pain.

In 2003 he realized that he was being overwhelmed by “unrealities” and all the emotions that come with them. In his imagination he had suffered financial loss, abandonment by his family, betrayal by friends, saying embarrassing things in public, attending his own funeral three times, loss of employment, several diseases and numerous muggings. None of these things happened! Yet, he suffered as if they had.

He said he suffered volumes in his imagination and fears which tied him in horrible emotional knots. He was always scrambling to control his life concerning situations that were not real. He confessed that he tried to play “God” in situations that didn’t exist and didn’t do it very well.

He asked himself, “Does God exist in what is unreal? Am I spending today’s grace on things that will never be real?” (Great questions, don’t you think?)

In 2003 Paul started staying in the grace for each day. When he did, he discovered a new companion – JOY. Until now, Joy had always been a visitor or acquaintance. Now JOY was a constant companion – Christ in him and Paul in Christ. Staying in the grace for today is transforming his life.

He told Jessica that the he had named his old fearful pattern, “Future Tripping.” That means taking a trip to a fearful future that does not exist, negative emotions abound and God does not exist. He said, “I don’t recommend it.”

(I like this lesson even though I am not consistent in this way of living. Learning to stay inside the grace given each of us one day at a time is wonderful description of faith, trust and life. Indeed, it reflects a healthy relationship with God whether times are good or challenging. This is the way of joy, peace and love – Jesus’/Christ’s way of being in the world – very incarnational – well worth the effort.)

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

St. Ignatius and Sister Pascaline

2009-06-11T22:38:00.002-05:00

Five of us at St. Luke's just completed thirty-four weeks of St. Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises. We went on a twenty-four hour retreat to the Forest of Peace Monastery to close our journey. We all agreed doing the Exercises was one of the most meaningful experiences of our spiritual journeys -- and commend the Spiritual Exercises to anyone who wants to deepen his or her relationship with Christ. Each participant commits to about an hour a day to the Spiritual Exercises. The experience is very nurturing -- even transforming.

Finishing at the monastery was a perfect way to end our time together. Sister Pascaline very graciously gave us both personal and group time. She is one of the most holy persons I know -- so in love with God -- even full of God. She as been one of my Spiritual Directors for several years and I am grateful.

A new group for St. Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises will form in the fall. Perhaps it will be right for you.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

New Jail for Bartlesville

2009-06-09T22:30:00.002-05:00

I just learned that voters today approved a new jail for Bartlesville by a two to one margin. That is great news! I am grateful for the people who worked so hard to get the message out on this very important issue. There is work to be done in terms of location, but at least for the moment we are together on the need and that is a huge step forward.

Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

New Jail and Location

2009-06-05T22:22:00.002-05:00

In my previous blog I talked about the need for a new jail for reasons beyond humanitarian concerns to a peace and justice level of spirituality. That is where I am personally and I will vote for the new jail.

Someone made a comment on the blog regarding the location of the jail and the lack of listening to people who live near the proposed site on the part of the City Council. I readily admit that the City Council has not handled this well -- there are a lot of things they have not handled well. But I would say the County Commissioners have not handled this well either . I have been very frustrated with them. The whole thing has been a mess. And, I have told them what I thought about the process, but that was too late to make a difference. I am embarrassed by the way they have gone about this.

On the other hand, before the previous election I walked around the proposed site and talked with some of the neighbors. Some of them had tried to enlist my help. After my tour and conversations I was convinced that the location is a win-win for the city, county and community. Contrary to things being said, there will be less danger there of escape than the current jail and no one has escaped from there! Walking through the area I am convinced this will actually improve the neighborhood -- and may encourage future development. From the city and county perspective, the jail needs to be in proximity to the court and this location would be close to ideal.

I could say more, but there will be time for that. This election is NOT about the location. There is no doubt more is to come regarding the location. For now that is NOT the issue and to vote "no" in this election will not address the issue of location -- just create more problems.

So vote "Yes" on Tuesday and then engage debate over the location next. It is time to move forward.
Peace,
Lee+

A New Jail for Bartlesville -- A Must -- Now!

2009-06-03T22:44:00.001-05:00

I am voting in favor of the new jail and I encourage you to do the same.

This is not a partisan issue. And, I believe it is more than a humanitarian issue.

Over the years I have had occasions to visit people in “our” jail (not just “the” jail – we own and are responsible for it). I was appalled the first time I went there and every time since. The living conditions are in my opinion inhumane. Granted, most of the people in the jail have made some bad choices, done some bad things and are deserving incarceration – and for a time, the community needs to be defended from them. But the conditions are deplorable in terms of provisions and overcrowding. Ironically, our jail makes the state prison outside of Hominy where I served on a Kairos team seem really nice.

Just a few examples of my experience in our jail – on one occasion I provided several counseling sessions with an inmate in a room about the size of a coat closet. At least it was private. Another time was marked by waiting with friends and family members who were in line for one of two booths where we could talk on a phone to the inmate on the other side of the Plexiglas window. Everyone could hear everyone else in all of life’s lesser terms as well as my counsel and prayer with a friend. Nothing however tops the experience of providing Holy Communion on my knees through a slot in the door with a cell crammed full of people and mattresses on the floor of the hallway. I must add that as my friend received the Sacrament, it was a holy moment even in that context.

Having said all of that, this is more than a humanitarian issue. As Christians, this should be a Peace and Justice issue. These inmates are children of God. While we need not ignore the things they have done, we should also not tolerate the perpetual abuse of people put into our deplorable jail – a context that could push them deeper in their alienation from society. Our ultimate goal should be redemptive – to shine some light and hope in the midst of their darkness even as they “pay” their debt to society. Sooner or later most of them will return to the “outside” – to our community – and we will want them to have “changed.” Grace is difficult enough to find in a decent prison or jail – next to impossible in our jail.

One of my greatest concerns is that people who understand the need and agree we need to act now in approving the needed funding may not vote. This election isn’t something that will get you all excited and plan a watch party. No, too many good people may very well just not vote and be satisfied to read the results the next day. Yet, we say in our Baptismal Covenant we “will strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being.” We also readily, if not boldly, say we “will seek and serve Christ in all persons loving our neighbor as ourselves.”

I believe voting “yes” on Tuesday, June 9th, for the new jail is a validation of our faith values, relationships and commitments.

Peace,
Fr. Lee+

Pentecost Sunday

2009-05-30T21:51:00.000-05:00

Sunday is a RED day celebration of God’s gift of self in the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. As much as we enjoy the feast day of St. Luke’s, this is bigger. We will be celebrating the larger – greater – inclusive – multi-faceted -- Body of Christ – THE Church empowered by the continual presence of the Risen Christ – the ever-present “Papa” – the pervasive Holy Spirit.

What a bunch of words trying to express the significance of the Day of Pentecost!!!

One of the things I like about the Day of Pentecost is that churches with all kinds of stripes will be celebrating this day – left-wing, right- wing, only-wing, liturgical-wing, casual-wing – just name it. Their origin is of God through the Holy Spirit and a community of believers whose lives had been transformed by the Living and Loving Christ.

I am blessed to have been a part of the Church from my beginning. I have seen a lot of craziness and experienced much disillusionment and pain in church life. I have often wondered how the Church has survived all through the centuries and in my life-time. Clearly God has sustained and empowered the Church with an abiding and grace-filled Spirit. Otherwise the Church would have crashed and burned along time ago. The Church is a perpetual miracle!

The Church is also a perpetual blessing! Sure, I know the dark side only too well, but the bright side is the greater constant. Over my years I have been privileged to be in community, in church, with some of the most remarkable people in the world. These were people who were consistently seeking to love and serve God – from the inside out. Their faith relationships with God and each other sustained them in the hard and sometimes conflictual times and enriched their blessings and joys all the more.

The Church is a mess. The Church is life. Sunday we will celebrate the Day of Pentecost not denying the faults, but all the more lifting up our life in Christ together which the Church offers, nurtures, challenges and empowers. I love the Church and specifically as I am privileged to know it in the Anglican Communion, the Episcopal Church and St. Luke’s.

Each day this week in anticipation of Sunday and the celebration of Pentecost I will be using the prayer for the Church found on page 816 of The Book of Common Prayer:

Gracious Father, we pray for your holy Catholic Church. Fill it with all truth, in all truth with all peace. Where it is corrupt, purify it; where it is in error, direct it; where in any thing it is amiss, reform it. Where it is right strengthen it; were it is in want provide for it; were it is divided, reunite it; for the sake of Jesus Christ your Son our Savior. Amen.

P.S. Gracious Spirit, start with our community of faith-relationships at St. Luke’s – and especially in me. Amen.

See you in RED this Sunday.
Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

Painful and Slow Progress

2009-05-26T23:29:00.002-05:00

People have been asking so I decided to share a bit of what is happening with Lynda. As I shared before, this surgery is more painful than we were led to believe in the beginning. Then add the surprising amount of scar tissue wrapped around the nerves, artery, first rib and on the second and third ribs -- they cleaned up a mess and that left everything a bit raw.

With the meds and sitting still, she is mostly ok and can enjoy conversation. Indeed, she would welcome visits (short visits) from friends. The days are getting long and boring -- which suggests she is getting better. Then there is always the risk of over doing it when she has someone to talk with besides me. Staying ahead of the pain using the meds is a challenge -- but she is handling that fairly well.

Twice a day she has to take a hot shower after taking her meds. Then she is to raise her right arm up over her head -- just once each time. This is all the physical therapy the surgeon wants her to have. So far she is raising her hand up to ear level crawling with her fingers up the shower wall -- painful progress.

On the upside, Lynda says her hand is stronger and warmer than before surgery -- that is very encouraging. That means the hope for playing the piano again is going up.

Each night when she goes to bed we say, "One more day of pain behind us and we are one day closer to health." And so it is for now -- and that is ok. Thank you again for your love and prayers. We are very grateful.

Peace,
lee+

Recent Graces

2009-05-23T21:49:00.002-05:00

Lynda has had a good day even with the pain. As we said when she went to bed, one more painful day down and one day closer to health and life again. We are aware of many "graces" along the way this week. Here are a few I don't think I have mentioned.

When Lynda was assigned a room, I went up to check it out -- very typical hospital room. The view was to the south of the fair grounds and the Cotton Bowl. BUT for some unknown reason her room was changed--
To a hall where there was little noise.
This was a "suite" -- two rooms made into one -- lots of space.
Instead of a love seat there was a sofa longer than I am tall.
Now the view was of the skyline of downtown Dallas only a short distance away.

I think I mentioned before that I discovered an outdoor labyrinth in the middle of the hospital complex. There was something very special about the discovery and experience.

Two of the most respected doctors in the Baylor Medical Center were Lynda's doctors -- both incredible doctors -- both with hearts for their patients -- both lovers of music and wanted Lynda to play again.

To create more space for the removal of the scar tissue and the first right rib, the surgeon purposely collapsed her right lung. Yes, that meant more pain in recovering and hardly a grace. However, just think how marvelously our bodies are made and how wonderfully creative doctors can be to do what is needed.

Rachel was Lynda's nurse in recovery for about five hours. She was efficient and caring every step of the way. She called me with updates. At one point she bent the rules to have me come and spend some time with Lynda because she thought it would encourage her.

At every turn people took seriously what happened to Lynda on December 8th when she "coded" following an injection. In part they may have been determined it wouldn't happen again on their watch -- but you always had the sense that they really cared.

One more -- this is getting a little long with so many graces. We stopped on the turnpike to walk a little and use the restroom. This was after three and half hours in the car. Lynda was weak and hurting -- and understandably looked like it. There were some problems with the ladies' restroom and there was a line of six or so women waiting. A woman came out of the restroom and looked at Lynda holding on to my arm. She said, "You need help don't you? I'm wait with you and take you in. I'll make sure you are ok and get you back to your husband." You just never know when you will meet an angel!

As you go to sleep tonight, review the graces you have experienced in the last few days and give thanks. Tonight I won't be able to stay awake long enough to list them all but God knows.

Peace,
Lee+

Home!

2009-05-22T21:52:00.002-05:00

We are home. There were delays in being dismissed from the hospital (the only negative about the whole experience). So we couldn't leave until 1:30. We got home at 7:00 -- not bad for making two extended stops to let Lynda walk around a bit (doctor's orders). They gave her the extra drugs as promised and she was able to sleep much of the way. Miss Misty (my car) did her best for smooth ride -- but this is Oklahoma. Anyway, by the time we got home the pain was coming on strong. I got Lynda ready for bed, got her to eat a little, took her meds and went to bed.

We are glad to be home. Pecan Place looked great -- and no stairs! Lynda will have some challenging days as she mends, but we are so very happy about the surgery and the way everything fell into place -- the best doctors, great hospital, cooperative insurance, good results and promise of much improved health -- family and friends who are like gold to us. We are tired but so very grateful tonight. Surly the Presence of the Papa (God for those who don't know) has been with us throughout this experience. Tonight above all nights we will sleep blessed.

Peace,
Lee+

Thursday, 5:00 Report

2009-05-21T16:53:00.002-05:00

Good day. A lot of pain which was expected -- especially after we got here and it seemed like everyone made a funny face when they heard what Lynda was to have done and said, "That's a painful one!" They were right -- especially last night and this morning. Now the pain is only bad when she moves -- then it can get really bad, but the pain meds are helping -- plus she is one tough lady!

The surgeon told us more about the scar tissue today after I asked him a direct question. He said the scar tissue was so bad that he could not see the first rib AND the scar tissue also covered the second and third rib! They cleaned it all out, removed the first rib and put in medication to help prevent future scar tissue. In short, they did a lot of work when they were in there -- hence even more pain. This also says something about the struggles Lynda has had. We are anxious to see the results.

Meanwhile, the doctor wrote the discharge orders this afternoon. Lynda will have a pain shot in her hip in the morning which should last for about six or seven hours, take a shower, receive a nerve block near the site of the surgery and then we get in the car and head for home. So, unless there are other developments, we will be home sometime tomorrow afternoon.

Lynda says, "I have felt the love and prayers from everyone and I am grateful." I echo those thoughts.

Indeed, on the way to the parking garage to get some things, I discovered an Interfaith Prayer Garden in the middle of the complex. I had seen the sign but had not stopped to check it out. This time I peaked over the wall and discovered a labyrinth patterned after the one in Chartes, France. I felt compelled to walk the labyrinth in this context of healing. I thought about and prayed for Lynda with thanksgiving and our family and friends who have been there for us for a long, long time -- and continue to be with us. We are blessed. I finished the labyrinth singing "Alleluia, Alleluia, Give Thanks to the Risen Lord. Alleluia, Alleluia, Give Praise to His Name." My heart is full to overflowing.

Love and Peace to all,
Lynda and Lee+

Good Surgery News from Dallas

2009-05-20T17:00:00.003-05:00

Lynda and I are giving thanks this evening for a very encouraging day. Her surgery went very well and the surgeon, Dr. Harold Urschel, Jr., was very pleased. He said there was more scar tissue than they expected wrapped around the artery, nerves and first rib. All of this was removed which takes away the pressure and leaves more space for the artery and nerves. He said she should feel much better once she is over the surgery and get back to playing the piano again.

When we met with the surgeon and his assistant yesterday, they said most people from out of town go home after two days in the hospital. They give the patient extra pain medication and send them on their way. As of now that is what we plan to do on Friday.

We are pleased and grateful for the care at Baylor Medical Center -- Roberts Hospital, excellent doctors and marvelous nursing staff. We are all the more grateful for family and friends who have been faithfully and lovingly praying for us. Plus, I had the surprise of Ann Donaldson-Hoyt entertaining me while Lynda was in surgery -- she was very helpful company in keeping vigil -- what a gift! Above all else, Lynda and I have been very mindful that God (Papa) has been present every moment and we are truly thankful.

Thanks be to God,
Lynda and Lee+

Bridges and Surgery

2009-05-19T21:47:00.002-05:00

I just completed a week of training in "Bridges Out of Poverty" and "Getting Ahead." I had planned to be writing about the experience, but just couldn't get it done. I am all the more convinced that most us know very little about true poverty, but have many expectations for what people in poverty should do.

I have been reflecting on that as we have been jumping through the hoops to get Lynda the surgery she needs. We would not be staying in a LaQuinta in Dallas the night before Lynda's surgery if we were in poverty.

Several weeks ago Dr. Richter, a neurologist in Tulsa, identified Lynda's current problem as Thoracic Outlet Syndrome -- a fairly rare condition.

He knew that no one in Oklahoma does this surgery, but had referred people to Dr. Harold Urschel, Jr. in Dallas before. He picked up the phone and made the arrangements for testing and consultation.

Where would a person in poverty be at this point?

I took out my insurance card and called Aetna. I learned that Dr. Urschel was not in the Aetna Network of Doctors. I had to call the seven cardiovascular-thoracic surgeons in Tulsa who are in the Network to verify they didn't do this surgery.

With the help of Dr. Urschel's staff I had the code numbers for the diagnosis and the surgery when I called Aetna again. By now I knew the proper term was "network deficiency" in working toward approval for "In Network Benefits." I was even able to do the work of a doctor's inept administrator getting this done.

Again, where would person in poverty be at this point?

The costs of staying two nights and eating out in preparation for the surgery have not been a problem. Today, when asked for our $100 hospital deductible, I didn't bat an eye and gave them the money -- knowing they will want more when this is over. At home and other places around the country people are praying for Lynda and supporting us with love -- and we are grateful. I have a staff that is doing my work while I am gone and I have no concern about their abilities -- or for my "job."

I'll ask one more time, where would a person in poverty be at this point?

How many points can you find in this outline where the differences could have a real impact? I'm not making judgements and I'm not asking that of you either. Neither guilt or pride are needed. Just be aware of how different the experiences can be. What is it like to live in generational poverty?

Rest well.
Blessings,
Fr. Lee+

The Time Is Set

2009-05-19T17:16:00.002-05:00

Lynda's surgery will be in the morning (Wednesday) at 8:30 -- we are to be there by 6:15. I don't like getting up in the "fives" but this will be a joy believing Lynda will be much better in the days ahead.

Thanks for all the prayers and love.
Lee+

Getting Ready for a New Chapter

2009-05-18T22:52:00.002-05:00

I have been away from my blog for a while because of time restraints -- or neglect. Either way this is a good means to communicate with the many people who have expressed love and interest as Lynda goes through her surgery and toward health. Below is from my column in this week's newsletter which people will not get until it is over (the internet is more timely). We arrived in Dallas this afternoon and had a quiet evening together. We will meet with the doctor at 9:00 in the morning and the process will begin. I will let you know the time for her surgery on Wednesday. We hope you will be especially mindful of her at that specific time.

"Tomorrow (Monday) Lynda and I will be driving to Dallas where she will have surgery on Wednesday, the 20th, at Baylor Medical Center. We start with the surgeon early Tuesday and all the pre-op work. As I previously reported, Lynda has an unusual condition called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome which is caused by pressure on an artery and nerves behind her first rib. This is likely the delayed result of her injury from a fall thirteen years ago – the cause of most of her health issues. The surgery involves removing the top right rib to relieve the pressure on the artery and nerve – which we pray will allow her to play the piano again without pain.

Both of us felt the love and support of our parish family this morning. Person after person expressed concern and pledged prayer – we are so blessed!"

Peace,
Lee+