All Saints Blog

Youth Sunday 11:00 Sermon Anne Harman Hornbuckle

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 01:17:29 GMT

Sermon by Anne Harman Hornbuckle

April 26, 2026

Youth Sunday 8:30 Sermon Eleanor Couch

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 01:13:45 GMT

Sermon by Eleanor Couch

April 26, 2026

When Your Heart is Beating Fast

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:44:00 GMT

When Your Heart Is Beating Fast

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

April 19, 2026

We are to love one another deeply from the heart. Whoever has a heart that is beating fast, the Holy Spirit wants you to say something. It is very important for people to know where their heart is and to know the Holy Spirit is moving through their heart, whether it is joyful, perplexed or angry.

Bread For The World

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:43:51 GMT

Letter Writing Campaign To Help The Hungry

Nearly one in ten people worldwide go to bed hungry and one in five children in Alabama face the reality of going without food. All Saints "Practicing Your Faith" class and the "Creation Care Ministry" invite you to join hands with Bread For The World, a Christian hunger advocacy group, as they write letters to congress urging them to fund US and International hunger assistance programs.

This is a chance to be the voice of the voiceless and the hope of the hungry. All ages are welcome, no experience necessary - just a servants heart! Please join us on Sunday, April 26th in the Great Hall at 9:45 am.

Blessing of the Bicycles

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:21:39 GMT

In Celebration of National Bike Month

Blessing of the Bicycles is May 17th! In honor of National Bike Month, All Saints will host a Blessing of the Bicycles on Sunday, May 17th at 1 pm.

Get your t-shirt for the ride. Youth sizes - $20 / Adult Sizes - $25. Order using the button below. Proceeds from t-shirt sales will benefit Redemptive Cycles. Deadline to order t-shirts is Monday, April 27th .

Bring your bikes, helmets, and other wheels! Join us for a blessing and a fun ride! Food and more fun to follow on the lawn. Questions: contact the Rev. Kelley Hudlow.

Simulation Wealth Gap

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:00:51 GMT

Understanding Hunger Starts Here

We know there’s enough food to feed everyone. Yet more than 40 million Americans struggle to put nutritious meals on the table—and some communities are hit much harder than others.

This interactive experience unpacks how federal policies created structural inequities— and how those same forces continue to fuel hunger and poverty today.

The more you understand the root causes of hunger – and how missed opportunity has impacted the influence of the wealth gap – the more powerfully you can advocate to end it.

Join us as we engage with our histories through a deeply engaging exercise offered in the Great Hall on Sunday, April 26th at 1pm. Light lunch will be provided. This simulation will guide us toward greater clarity of ourselves and our neighbors! Please email Ranie at rneislar@allsaintsbhm.or g for more information, or click the button below.

African American Spirituals and their Biblical Foundations

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:17:58 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

American Spirituals taught by our own All Saints parishioner and Adult Choir member Michael Morgan! The class will run on Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30 in the Adult Choir Room for 5 weeks--4/15, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, and 5/13.

This is an informal course/discussion on the genre of music called Spirituals and its often misunderstood importance in American Music. We will discuss the difference between gospel songs and Spirituals. We will review a few song arrangements, their biblical references and interpretations from various scholars, arrangers, composers, and Michael’s own perspective and experiences from many years of study and performance.

Contact Melanie Couch with questions or for more information at mcouch@allsaintsbhm.org .

VBS Registration

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:56:25 GMT

Vacation Bible School

We’re going to Israel! Mark your calendars for Vacation Bible School, June 21-24 , when we will travel back to the ancient time of Jesus in the Land of Israel.

Sunday (6:30 - 8:00 pm)

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

Ages
Children 4 years (by June 21) through rising 6th graders are welcome to participate in Vacation Bible School. Rising 6th graders will be in their own Elder Tribe.

Volunteers
Vacation Bible School at All Saints is a very intergenerational experience. We love volunteers of all ages. Rising 7th graders (and others up to any age!) can volunteer any of the VBS days. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Joie Hoke (joie@allsaintsbhm.org) or Jeannie Feldman ( jeanniefeldman@att.net ).

Creation Care Community Calendar

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:30:32 GMT

Upcoming Community Events In Birmingham

As Christians, we believe all of creation was called into being by the very word of God. The Bible reveals that our Creator calls us to be stewards of creation and to love our neighbors. Inspired by the unsurpassed love God showed us by sending Jesus Christ, God’s only son, to redeem us through his death and resurrection, we respond to God's commands. The Episcopal Diocese of Alabama and the All Saints Creation Care Committee is committed to environmental education, advocacy, and action for our neighbors and all of creation . As part of this dedication we would like to let you know of some upcoming activities related to it:

____________________________________________________________________________

4/1 UAB Sustainability Fair https://calendar.uab.edu/event/sustainability-fair-2026-spring

4/3 Nature at Noon at Ruffner Mountain with Alabama Audubon – Registration required https://alaudubon.org/event/1ruffnernature2026

4/4, 4/11, 4/18 & 4/25 Native Plant Sale at Ruffner Mountain https://www.jeffcogreenways.org/programs/community/native-plant-sale

4/7 How Can I Help?: Saving Nature with Your Yard book discussion at Birmingham Botanical Gardens https://bbgardens.org/event/how-can-i-help-saving-nature-with-your-yard/

4/10 Document Shredding & Electronics Recycling at Homewood Public Library https://homewoodpubliclibrary.org/event/15840358

4/11 Birmingham Litter Cleanup at East Lake Park with Black Warrior Riverkeeper https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birmingham-litter-cleanup-d4-tickets-1982299584419?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

4/12 Mindful Nature Walk at Red Mountain Park – Registration required https://www.jeffcogreenways.org/programs/event/mindful-nature-walk-8

4/14 Embracing Natives: the Benefit of Native Landscaping in an Urban Environment https://bbgardens.org/event/embracing-native-landscaping/

4/15 Celebrating the Wonder of the Night at Turkey Creek Preserve – Registration required https://www.jeffcogreenways.org/programs/event/celebrating-the-wonder-of-the-night-at-turkey-creek-nature-preserve

4/17-4/18 BioBlitz at Red Mountain Park – Registration required https://www.jeffcogreenways.org/programs/calendar

4/17-4/18 Spring Plant Sale including native plants at Birmingham Botanical Gardens https://bbgardens.org/event/spring-plant-sale/

4/20 - 25 Kaul Wildflower Bioblitz https://bbgardens.org/event/bioblitz/

4/20-24 Cahaba River Coalition walking & canoeing cleanups for Earth Week

https://cahabarivercoalition.org/events/

4/25 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event
https://www.jccal.org/Default.asp?ID=2294&pg=Electronics+Hazardous+Materials

4/25 Earth Day Celebration at Birmingham Botanical Gardens https://bbgardens.org/event/earth-day-celebration/

4/25 Earthbound’s Earthfest 2026 for Black Warrior Riverkeeper https://www.facebook.com/events/d41d8cd9/earthbounds-earthfest-2026/2457025218047637/

4/26 Rain Barrel Workshop with Hoover Parks & Recreation – Registration required https://hoover.libnet.info/event/15337581

The Inevitability of Wings

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:52:22 GMT

The Inevitability of Wings

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

April 5, 2026

Happy Easter! What is the Easter life for us as we move forward? This takes place when three things happen: metamorphosis, being called by our true name and being sent on assignment where we are not currently in our life. Whenever we experience life's crucifixions, we discover we are never alone...God's solidarity and empathy surround us at all times. From the beginning God's love and grace were available for all of us and the crucifixion was the ultimate example of that love.

Go And Tell

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 02:45:59 GMT

Go And Tell

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

April 4, 2026

What did the women talk about as they went to Jesus' tomb? Did they remember his miracles? How he welcomed children? The wisemen who came for his birth? We tell familiar stories to make sense of a loss, but on the first Easter, the women would see God's power at work and tell a very new story. The Angel told them he was not in the tomb and charged them to go tell the others that Jesus had risen.

To The End

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:17:59 GMT

To The End

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

April 3, 2026

Knowing that his hour has come, Jesus loved his own to the end. We are coming to the time when we witness the fullest extent of love. His love does not break under the weight of the cross. The fullness of his ministry is met at the cross.

The Final Commandment is to Enjoy a Good Meal Together

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:12:24 GMT

The Final Commandment is to Enjoy A Good Meal Together

Sermon by The Rev. Rainie Neislar

April 2, 2026

We are reminded that from the first breaking of the bread, we practice the command to love one another around a good meal. At this table, God is that food. We come here to remember our connection to God and Christ.

Love's Cross Replaces the Old With The New

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 21:49:23 GMT

Love's Cross Replaces The Old With The New

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

March 17, 2026

This sermon reminds us the lengths that God will go to for relationship with us. Jesus didn't come to fix our problems, He came because God wanted to be with us. The cross is about God's love for us and Jesus went to the cross willingly to show his solidarity with us.

This is a Love Story

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 00:45:47 GMT

This is a Love Story

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

March 22, 2026

This sermon outlines a love story, a story about who Jesus is and a miracle. It's the story of the resurrection of Lazarus, showcasing the love between friends - Jesus, Mary, Martha and Lazarus. It is one of the times we see the very human side of Jesus in that he was affected by human relationships. He wept at the Lazurus' death ("Jesus Wept"). And in the messiness of grief, Jesus is revealed as the resurrection and the light.

Mortals Look on the Outward Appearance. God Looks on the Heart

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 22:19:38 GMT

Mortals Look on the Outward Appearance. God Looks On the Heart.

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

March 17, 2026

This sermon reinforces the fact that God judges differently than humans do. We are all made up of our outward appearance and our heart. There are, of course, other elements, but these two are where we are judged most frequently. Humans judge based on appearance and stature while God looks into our heart.

Congregation Assessment Tool

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:24:49 GMT

We invite you to complete the Congregation Assessment Tool (CAT) , an online survey that will help our leaders understand the strength, vitality, and trends of our parish. The results will help guide decisions about the future of All Saints.

On Monday, March 16 , you should have received an email with a unique link to the survey. Please complete it online and share your experiences and priorities for our church. To ensure accurate results, we ask that you not discuss the survey or your responses with others.

If you need a paper copy, please contact the church office and we will provide one along with a self-addressed stamped envelope.

All responses are completely anonymous , so please feel free to answer candidly. Your participation and honest feedback are essential. To access the survey, click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/allsaintsbirminghamal

Following the close of the assessment April 8th , we will host three Q&A sessions.

Sunday, April 19 at 3:30 pm in the Great Hall
Wednesday, April 22 at 12:30 pm in the Great Hall
Wednesday, April 2 2 at 6 pm in the Great Hall

Sessions will last approximately 1-1/2 hours and will be led by Holy Cow! Consulting via a Zoom meeting.

If you have not completed the survey yet, please do so prior to April 8 ^th . We need as many responses as possible. If you have questions, please contact the All Saints Rector Search Committee at rectorsearch@allsaintsbhm.org .

Loosen Your Heart

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 22:08:41 GMT

Loosen Your Heart

Sermon by The Rev. Rainie Neislar

March 8, 2026

This sermon teaches us to make spake within ourselves to experience Grace. We can change how we see ourselves with God's help. We all need someone in our corner and God wants to be that resource. When we allow ourselves to experience God's gift of grace, what we are really doing is allowing ourselves to truly know God and His love.

A Lent of Mercy or a Lent of Sacrifice?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:39:27 GMT

A Lent of Mercy or a Lent of Sacrifice?

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

March 1, 2026

This sermon reflects on how God’s mercy invites us into new life each day. Through the images of the shepherd and the vine, we are reminded that divine love already flows within us, though we sometimes block it through our choices. Even in moments of failure, God’s response is not condemnation but mercy that restores and renews us. Lent becomes an invitation to let that love flow again, living each day as a new beginning shaped by grace rather than guilt.

The Passion of Christ Through the Arts

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:31:59 GMT

Lent invites us to slow down and look again at the story that shapes our faith. On Tuesday, March 10 at 2:00pm in the Parish Hall, our March PrimeTime Saints program will do just that. Our own Rev. Kelley will guide us through The Passion through the Arts, exploring how the story of Christ’s Passion has been portrayed in art, media, and music across generations.

Together we will reflect on how countless artists have interpreted this sacred story and how their work continues to speak to us today. We hope you will make this part of your Lenten journey. Light refreshments will be served.

Rector Search Committee

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:26:32 GMT

A prayer for our new Rector:

Almighty God, who knows our needs even before we ask, grant us peace and a spirit of faith, that we may have the wisdom and courage to meet the days to come with steadfast hope and patience; look graciously upon our beloved All Saints’, and send forth your Holy Spirit to guide the search committee, the vestry, and our parish family to be of one heart and one mind, that we may seek and receive a faithful pastor to care for your people and equip us for our ministries.

All Saints Family,

The vestry is excited to share that we have completed the first major step in the calling of our next rector. Following meetings with the Canon to the Ordinary and prayerful consideration of many wonderful people suggested by vestry members and parishioners, the vestry is excited to announce the Search Committee for our next rector!

Philemon Croft (co-chair)

Ellie Jo Malki (co-chair)

Susan Anderson

Kate Barber Campbell

Jeffery Colvin

Sally Elwood

John Bryan Ennis

Stephen Hill

Martha Miller

Lizzie Shepherd

Duke Terrell

Under the current guidelines for the rector search process, the Search Committee will be tasked with listening to the parish, creating the parish profile, considering candidates, and making a recommendation to the vestry.

The Search Committee will soon begin seeking input from the parish to prepare a parish profile for rector candidates. Your participation is crucial, so please keep an eye out for information about completing a survey and attending listening sessions. We are committed to keeping you informed throughout this process. Please keep the committee in your prayers as they plan, work, and discern who God is calling to be the new Rector for All Saints.

The Search Committee will be commissioned at the 11:00 am service on Sunday, March 1 ^st . Please join us!

Faithfully,

Alexa McElroy and Drew Hataway

We recently received the results of the Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT) survey from Holy Cow! who administered the survey for All Saints. Please find a copy of the Executive Summary at the button below. Should anyone have questions or comments regarding the summary, they can contact the committee at rectorsearch@allsaintsbhm.org.

Easter Festival

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:59:32 GMT

VOLUNTEERS needed! If you can help set up and help out during this event, please connect with Kathleen: kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org

Saturday, April 19, 10:00am – 11:30am

Terrell Commons (Great Hall in case of rain)

Easter Festival is for everyone of ALL AGES
Stations will be set up for many activities: Mosaic Crosses, Easter Bells, Resurrection Bracelets/Necklaces, Paper Flowers, Cookie Decorating, Watercolor Resist Art, Butterfly Garden, and Prayer Cards for the Community Cross
No charge for the event but donations are greatly appreciated: feel free to bring cash or check to the event or give through Realm using the "Easter Festival" drop down option
Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase

Huge Lineup of Speakers for Stories on the Way

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:02:38 GMT

Stories on the Way: Stories and Poetry for Lent

Our faith is built on a collection of stories shared over generations. Jesus taught in stories. Stories are interwoven in our identities as beloved children of God.

As we make our way through the season of Lent, you are invited to join us for three evenings of sharing stories and poems on Wednesdays, February 25, March 4, and March 11 .

We will begin each evening at 5:30 with a simple supper. We will close out each evening with Compline (a short night prayer service). Use the link below to let us know if you will be joining us for dinner and if you will be bringing children. The Wednesday Atrium will be available.

Please RSVP for dinner here

Each evening, we will be joined by featured storytellers and poets. You are also invited to bring your own poetry or a favorite poem to share.

Your host:

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

Featured storytellers:

February 25

Topic: Repentance

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

The Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan

March 4

Topic: Mercy

The Very Rev. Richard Lawson, Bishop-elect

Beverly Brasell

Susanna Whisett

March 11

Topic: Hope

Jamie Parris

The Rev. Dillon Green

Dr. Shanti Weiland

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow serves as the Instructor of Preaching at Bexley Seabury Seminary and as Associate Rector at All Saints in Homewood. She is a jack-of-all-trades and a master of a few. She considers herself a preacher, storyteller, and occasionally a poet.more!

The Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan served as a priest in the Episcopal Church in Mississippi and Alabama for twenty-seven years before being elected a bishop in 2008, serving as the 11th Bishop of Alabama until he retired at the end of 2020. He is the author of five books: the Jabbok trilogy, God, the Devil & Lemon Icebox Pie, and Faithful Heretic: A Novel about Pelagius.

Richard is a native of Guntersville, Alabama, and is a graduate of Auburn University, General Theological Seminary, and the University of the South’s School of Theology. He currently serves as the Dean of St. John’s Cathedral in Denver, CO, and is the Bishop-elect of the Diocese of Alabama. Richard reflects, “For me, stories are what connect us to the four gospels more than anything else. You can't know Jesus without telling a good story. You can't understand your life without telling a story about either what you've suffered, what you've been through, or the joys you've experienced. I'm fascinated by how stories work and therefore by people.”

Beverly Brasell has a B.A. in Speech and Theatre from The University of Montevallo, and an M.A. in Theatre from the University of Tennessee. She taught Speech and Theatre for 36 years with thirty-two of those years at Vestavia Hills High School. She retired in 2007. Currently she presents numerous times a year for local literary, garden, and special interest clubs. Even in this late “season” of her life, Beverly agrees with the British poet George Herbert when he said, “And now in age I bud again.”

Jamie is a marketing and communications strategist, specializing in nonprofits. His work focuses on strengthening organizations working for transformational change on behalf of marginalized communities and the environment. He sees creativity as a path to individual healing and as a way to break down barriers that divide us. He is an All Saints parishioner and serves on the Advisory Circle for the Threshold Center.

The Rev. Dillon Green is the Rector of Saint Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Chelsea, AL. A native of Florence, Alabama, he attended the University of North Alabama (UNA), where he majored in French and Spanish. He was educated for ministry at Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS), ordained in the Diocese of Kansas, and has served several parishes in Kansas and Alabama. Dillon is a lover of language, an avid reader, an occasional writer, and, when inspiration strikes, an amateur poet. He enjoys spending time with his fiancé, Cody Lawyer, and their cats, Patsy, Penny, and Smokey.

Shanti Weiland recently wrote a book of poems about Star Trek: The Next Generation. Her first book, Sister Nun , was the winner of the Negative Capability Press Book Competition, judged by Amy King. Weiland received a BA in English from the University of California, Davis; MA from Northern Arizona University; and PhD. in Poetry from the University of Southern Mississippi. She teaches at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. She lives in Birmingham with her wife and pets.

Susanna Whitsett joined the staff of All Saints in 1992 as the Youth Minister and has remained a parishioner ever since. Since 2019, she has served as the Executive Director of Founders Place, a respite ministry at St. Luke’s for adults living with dementia‑related brain change and their caregivers. This June, Susanna will step into a new role as the Executive Director of The Threshold Center—an outreach initiative of St. Stephen’s dedicated to fostering connection, honoring diverse perspectives, and nurturing well‑being through programs that engage the heart, mind, and imagination. Susanna’s story grows out of deep relationships at All Saints, a heartbreaking event in our community, and an unexpected experience of healing.

Preschool T-Shirts

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:52:28 GMT

All Saints Preschool families, we are excited to offer new kid T shirts this year!

Shirts will be Gildan and available in sizes 2T through 5T and Youth XS. They do tend to run small. We have a few sample shirts at the Preschool front desk if you would like to check sizing before you order.

We have also added adult sizes S through XXL. Shirts are $18, and XXL is $20. All orders will be charged to the card on file. If you do not have a card on file, we will reach out by email, or you can call the Preschool front desk at 205-879-1092 to make payment.

If you would like to order more than one shirt, simply submit another response.

Mahjong Anyone?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:22:40 GMT

Have you learned how to play Mahjong but need a consistent group to keep up your knowledge of the game? Do you like to meet different people at All Saints and gather in fellowship? Well, open to all ages and genders, meet the Mahj Squad, a group that meets 2-3xs a month at All Saints to play Mahjong.

We meet next April 12 from 2:30-4:30pm and on April 17th from 2-4pm in the Great Hall.. If you are interested in joining the Group Me list, text Emily Holm at emilyeholm@gmail.com

Choose a Hero That Lasts

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 01:21:16 GMT

Choose a Hero That Lasts

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

February 22, 2026

On the first Sunday in Lent, we hear about the story of Jesus being tempted by Satan in the wilderness, tempted to misuse his power. Like Adam and Eve before him, he faces the choice of whether to trust God or reach for something more. Where others grasp for control, Jesus chose trust, showing us that real strength comes from putting God first. Lent invites us to look honestly at our own daily temptations and remember that, even when we fail, God remains faithful and ready to be chosen again.

Contemplative Service Series

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:02:13 GMT

2026 Contemplative Service Series

The All Saints Contemplative Service Series offers sacred space for reflection, prayer, and stillness. Through the gentle rhythms of music from Taizé, Iona, and Cursillo—alongside new prayers and songs—we create room for both silence and sound, joy and lament.

This is an invitation to pause amid the world's hurry: to breathe deeply, to listen, and to rest in God's presence. As Brother John of Taizé writes, "It is a time to rest in God, to let the words listened to and sung penetrate one's being."

For more information, contact Maggie Gill at mgill@allsaintsbhm.org .

A Contemplative Service: Epiphany Evensong

Wednesday, February 4

6:00pm

This evensong in the Epiphany season will be presented by the choirs in the All Saints Choir School. Blending the choral traditions of evensong with the intimate setting of our All Saints Contemplative Service series, this sacred service will give space for beautiful, light-filled, meditative evening prayer.

Lenten Contemplative Service

Wednesday, March 18

6:00pm

This reflective Lenten Contemplative Service is shaped by prayer, song, and gentle space for the soul. Children and youth from the All Saints Choir School will join with other musicians to offer music that invites us into the depth, beauty, and self-examination of this season. Through stillness, scripture, and musical offerings, we will journey together toward renewal and hope as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Holy Week. All are welcome to rest, listen, and reflect in this sacred time.

Contemplative Service for Pride Month: Celebrating Diversity in God's Children

Wednesday, June 3

6:00pm

Join All Saints for this joyful contemplative service to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and the wonderful diversity in God’s family. With reflection, silence, exuberant song, and prayers we will lift each other up and celebrate our calling to love others as Christ loved us.

A Contemplative Service of Remembrance for All Souls and All Saints

Wednesday, November 4

 6:00pm

Choirs in the All Saints Choir School help present music in this contemplative service. Through prayer and silence, light, and music we remember and celebrate the lives of those who have died. At the service, you may bring a photo of your loved one for the altar and/or light a candle for them. You may also submit the name of your loved one to be read in the service. To submit a name the week before the service, email office@allsaintsbhm.org

Advent Contemplative Service: A Space for Pain, Reflection, and Healing

Monday, December 21

 6:00pm

This liturgy is created for those who face challenges during the holiday season. Whether from the loss of a loved one, strained relationships, health issues, or other difficulties, come find a space for rest, reflection, and hope as we acknowledge both the struggles and the light within this season. All are welcome.

Ash Wednesday Sermon Feb. 18, 2026

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:09:25 GMT

Giving Up and Taking On For a Healthy Lent

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

February 18, 2026

Lent is not just about giving something up. It is a 40-day journey that invites us to see our lives through a Jesus lens, remembering that just as he was tested after his baptism, we too will have our belovedness tested. The real discipline is not chocolate or wine, but letting go of anything that makes us doubt we are deeply loved by God.

Women's Retreat - Camp McDowell - March 13-15

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:30:54 GMT

Deadline to register is Wednesday, March 4

Join us March 13-15 for our Women's Retreat at Camp McDowell. We will practice rest, creativity, and wonder at the different ways we practice resilience-- all the while enjoying good company, good food, and wonderful, wonderful Camp McDowell. Be sure to register above.

Questions, email rneislar@allsaintsbhm.org

Lent 2026

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 21:18:27 GMT

Sundays in Lent

Services at 8:30am, 10:30am, and 5:30pm

1st Sunday in Lent, 2/22 – The Rev. Kelley Hudlow, Preacher
2nd Sunday in Lent, 3/1 – The Rev. Ed Bacon, Preacher
3rd Sunday in Lent, 3/8 - The Rev. Ranie Neislar, Preacher
4th Sunday in Lent, 3/15 - The Rev. Ed Bacon, Preacher
5th Sunday in Lent 3/22 - The Rev. Kelley Hudlow, Preacher

TUESDAYS in Lent

2/24, 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24

Eucharist in the Chapel, 9:30am
Centering Prayer in the Chapel, 6pm
Ed’s Zoom Class, 6:45pm for Virtual Centering Prayer & 7pm for class

WEDNESDAYS in Lent

Stories on the Way

2/25, 3/4, 3/11

5:30pm-7pm

Come share a simple meal and hear some stories and poems.

Lenten Contemplative Service

3/18

6pm

HOLY WEEK

March 29

Palm Sunday

The Rev. Ed Bacon, Preacher

8:30am - Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

Procession with the donkey before the service

11:00am - Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

Procession with the donkey before the service

5:30pm: Holy Eucharist

March 31

Eucharist in the Chapel, 9:30am

Centering Prayer in the Chapel, 6pm

April 2

Maundy Thursday

The Rev. Ranie Neislar, Preacher
6:30pm: Proper Liturgy for Maundy Thursday with Holy Eucharist

April 3

Good Friday

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow, Preacher
12:00pm - Proper Liturgy for Good Friday

April 4

Holy Saturday

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow, Preacher
9:30am - Holy Saturday Liturgy in the Chapel
10:00am - Easter Festival
6:30pm - Easter Vigil

April 5

Easter Sunday

The Rev. Ed Bacon, Preacher
8:30am: Holy Eucharist
11:00am: Holy Eucharist
5:30pm: Holy Eucharist

We Love Our Children's Pew Art!

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:54:40 GMT

Maybe you have seen a 'Children’s Pew Art' sheet in your pew? These are meant to be a simple way to invite our young friends to draw what they see in church, picture something they hear in the Bible reading, write a letter to God, ask a question, or create a prayer.

We share in nurturing their spiritual lives, just as we promise at baptism. They learn by watching and listening. They absorb what is going on around them. So enjoy watching your child draw on them.

You can take yours home to reflect on during the week, or let it stay for someone else to find. We truly love discovering these colorful reflections of faith all over the church!

Your Light is What Makes You Come Alive

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:09:02 GMT

Your Light is What Makes You Come Alive

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

February 8, 2026

This sermon weaves together a simple but powerful truth: every person carries a golden thread of divine light within them. Through stories of a wise friend’s memoir, along with voices like Thomas Merton and Howard Thurman, we are reminded that this light is our true self, the sound of the genuine, the mind of Christ alive in us. Instead of defining ourselves by sin or fear, we are invited to see creativity, wisdom, and sacred worth in ourselves and in everyone we meet. When we live from that place, our light breaks forth like the dawn, and we become healers in a divided world.

Holy Week Service Information

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:08:02 GMT

April 13

Palm Sunday
8:30am: Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

Procession with the donkey before the service

11:00am: Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist LIVE STREAM

Procession with the donkey before the service

5:30pm: Holy Eucharist

April 17

Maundy Thursday
6:30pm: Proper Liturgy for Maundy Thursday with Holy Eucharist. LIVE STREAM

*There will be child care for this service

8:00pm until Proper Liturgy for Good Friday service (12pm): Prayer Vigil * Church doors will be open and the Nave will be available for those that may want to come in and pray any time during these hours.

April 18

Good Friday
12:00pm: Proper Liturgy for Good Friday LIVE STREAM

April 19

Holy Saturday
9:00am: Proper Liturgy for Holy Saturday
10:00am: Inter-generational Easter Festival
7:15pm: The Great Vigil of Easter

April 20

Easter Sunday
8:30am: Holy Eucharist
11:00am: Holy Eucharist LIVE STREAM
5:30pm: Holy Eucharist

When Crises Loom Large, Center Down in God’s Three Basics

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:31:06 GMT

When Crises Loom Large, Center Down in God’s Three Basics

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

February 1, 2026

In a deeply personal opening, the Rev. Ed Bacon shares how recent transitions in church and country have stirred real emotion, reminding us that faith is never lived in isolation from the world around us. Turning to Micah 6:8, the sermon centers on a steady moral compass: do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. These practices are offered as spiritual fortification in uncertain times, calling us away from fear and toward community. Rooted in love, humility, and hope, this way of life becomes how we move forward together when things feel like they are unraveling.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper Feb. 17

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:14:51 GMT

Join us for our annual "Shrove Tuesday & Pancake Supper" Tuesday, February 17, 5:30pm-7:00pm! You can sign up to help by donating supplies and working a shift! The meal will cost $8 per person or $30 per family, and all proceeds will benefit our youth programs.

SIGN UP HERE

Shrove Tuesday, also know as "Pancake Tuesday" or "Pancake Day" is the final day before the 40-day period of Lent begins. Its name comes from the Germanic-Old English word “shrive,” meaning absolve, and it is the last day of the liturgical season historically known as Shrovetide. Because it comes directly before Lent, a season of fasting and penitence, this was the day that Christians would go to be “shriven” by their confessor. Shrove Tuesday also became a day for pre-fasting indulgence. In particular, the need to use up rich ingredients such as butter, milk, sugar and eggs before Lent gave rise to the tradition of eating pancakes on this day.

On Shrove Tuesday, we also burn the palms distributed during the previous year's Palm Sunday liturgies to make the ashes used during the services held on the very next day, Ash Wednesday.

A Contemplative Service: Epiphany Evensong Feb. 4

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:23:59 GMT

A Contemplative Service: Epiphany Evensong 

Wednesday, February 4 at 6:00pm

See all Contemplative Services Here

Ash Wednesday

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 20:26:18 GMT

Ash Wednesday is Wednesday, February 18! Services will be at 12:00pm & 6:00pm . The nursery will be available for infants - 6 years old.

Falling six and half weeks before Easter, this will mark the beginning of the forty days of Lent in preparation for Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday. The ashes are a sign of penitence and a reminder of mortality, and may be imposed with the sign of the cross. The Ash Wednesday service is one of the Proper Liturgies for Special Days in the BCP (p. 264). Imposition of ashes at the Ash Wednesday service is optional.

Bingo Night Feb. 11

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:38:51 GMT

We will have an all ages Bingo Night in the Great Hall on Wednesday, February 11 from 5:00 to 6:30pm . We are leaning into a Valentine theme and making it a relaxed evening for all generations to gather, play, and enjoy time together. This timing also works well if you are coming before or after choir rehearsals.

We will have Roly Poly sandwiches, chips, and dessert available, with a suggested donation of $5 to help us plan for food. Come for a round or stay for the whole evening. Everyone is welcome.

Saints Social Clubs

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:36:46 GMT

Introducing Saints Social Clubs!

Looking for a fun, easy way to connect with fellow parishioners? Saints Social Clubs brings adults together once a month to enjoy great food and great company.

Here’s how it works:

• Complete the short preference questionnaire HERE

• Small clubs will be assigned in early March

• Each club decides how they want to gather, in homes, at restaurants, or a mix of both. Each participant can choose the vibe for their assigned month

• Days, times, and locations are set by each individual club

• No pressure, no agenda, just a social gathering with fellow parishioners

Whether you’re new to All Saints or have been here for years, this is a wonderful way to meet new people and strengthen connections within our church community.

If you have any questions connect with Ginny May, ginmay@bellsouth.net

Follow Me

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 20:04:16 GMT

Follow Me

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

January 25, 2026

In a world that can feel overwhelming and fast-falling, like a game of Tetris that never slows down, this reflection asks how we keep serving when the weight feels like too much, especially with the events happening all around us. The gospel reminds us that Jesus began his work not in safe or powerful places, but among people living close to uncertainty, calling them into healing work they could not do alone. Following Jesus does not remove the heaviness, but it places us in a community where hope is shared and carried together. None of us can heal everything, but each of us is invited to carry a part, trusting that even small acts of faith, care, and courage matter.

An Afternoon Of Music And Sweet Treats Feb. 10

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:54:32 GMT

Join Primetime Saints on Tuesday, February 10 at 2:00pm for a warm afternoon of music and connection. Enjoy live performances alongside romance inspired chocolate and cheeses. Music will feature Maggie Gill, vocalist, Christin Gill on violin, and Nico Moreno on piano. A relaxed gathering to slow down, listen, and enjoy time together.

If you have any questions, reach out to Susan Ponder: suponder@bellsouth.net

The Roberson Project - Part Two Feb. 8

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:31:03 GMT

POSTPONED! Woody Register’s plane decided Philadelphia was the final destination, so our Sunday afternoon gathering today is postponed. We will share new details if/when they become available.

Faith Under Construction

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:04:54 GMT

Faith and the Modern Family is expanding! We welcome everyone no matter where you are in your spiritual life. This Sunday we are using a short video clip to explore Jesus’ message about being there for each other through the visions of a Jewish comedian, Judd Apatow. We are celebrating faith as it evolves, as we test it, and even throw it around a little bit. Put on your construction hat and join us every Sunday in rm 223 at 9:45ish!

What Are You Looking For?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 23:08:25 GMT

What are you looking for?

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

January 18, 2026

This sermon reflects on how people find their way to All Saints and what they discover once they arrive: connection, belonging, and a place to grow in faith. Drawing from the Gospel of John, it centers on Jesus’s first question, “What are you looking for?” and the simple invitation that follows: “Come and see.” Faith, the sermon reminds us, begins with honesty about our hopes and needs and continues as we follow Jesus into both comfort and challenge. And once we have experienced that transformation, we are called to tell the story and invite others to come and see too.

13th Diocesan Bishop of Alabama: The Very Rev. Richard T. Lawson III

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:49:09 GMT

The Very Rev. Richard T. Lawson III, dean of Saint John’s Cathedral in Denver, has been elected the 13th diocesan bishop of Alabama. He was chosen on the first ballot at today’s special convention at the Cathedral Church of the Advent.

Following the required consent process of The Episcopal Church, Bishop elect Lawson will be ordained and consecrated on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Birmingham. We give thanks for all who served in this search and ask for continued prayers during this time of transition.

Our Essence: We Are Beloved Energy

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 01:56:36 GMT

"Our Essence: We Are Beloved Energy"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

January 11, 2026

In reflecting on the baptism of Jesus, this sermon reminds us that our deepest truth is not fear or striving, but belovedness. Jesus’ baptism becomes a kind of spiritual GPS, grounding him and us in love as the place from which all decisions and actions flow. Drawing on wisdom from across faith and life, the message names self rejection as the real trap and love as the way through it. When we live from the truth that we are beloved, love becomes the force that guides our lives and shapes our response to the world.

Your Life, a Watered Garden

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 02:47:57 GMT

"Your Life, a Watered Garden"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

January 4, 2026

This sermon invites us to choose a word or image to carry into the new year, shaped by grief, hope, and deep listening. I reflect on a vision of God not as a judge, but as a faithful gardener who keeps us watered with grace, forgiveness, and compassion. Drawing from Jeremiah, personal stories, and voices shaped by religious trauma, the message reminds us that we are not broken at our core, but full of grace. As we step into 2026, we do so as beautifully weird, deeply connected people, rooted in love and always held by a God who is on our side.

Bishop Election Rescheduled for Jan. 31

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:35:40 GMT

Due to the National Weather Service forecast for a potential winter storm later this week, the Standing Committee has rescheduled the election for the 13th Bishop of Alabama.

At the request of Bishop Curry, the election originally planned for this Saturday will now take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00pm at the Cathedral Church of the Advent.

YOU CAN JOIN THE LIVE STREAM FOR JAN. 31 HERE

Our diocesan bishop, the Rt. Rev. Glenda Curry, will retire later this year, and the search is now underway for the 13th Bishop of Alabama.

The candidates are the Reverend Candice Frazer, rector of Church of the Ascension in Montgomery, and the Very Reverend Richard T. Lawson III, dean of Saint John’s Cathedral in Denver.

Learn more at albishopsearch.org .

Ordination is set for June 26 and June 27, 2026.

Being With: Exploring Faith and Life Together

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:29:14 GMT

Hello folks.

I’d love to invite you to something a little different.

Being With is a course exploring Christian faith and its relevance to our lives now —but it’s not your typical course. It’s a space for anyone who’s curious about faith, exploring Christianity, or maybe just wondering where they stand with it all.

You might be returning to faith after some time away or asking whether what you once believed still holds true. Or maybe you’ve had experiences of church that left you unsure. Being With offers something gentler—a place where you can listen, share and reflect alongside others, with no pressure and no judgement.

What makes it special is that we explore faith through real-life stories and honest conversation—not lectures or right answers.

Whatever your story, Being With offers a gentle, honest space to reflect.

It’s not about having the right answers—it’s about real conversations, shared experiences, and discovering how to live a faith that feels true to you.

We'd love to have you with us.

Kelley+
The Rev. Kelley Hudlow
Associate Rector

Who is this course for?
This course is for people new to the Christian faith, returning to the Christian faith, or wanting to explore their faith. This course is also for anyone wanting to be confirmed or received at the Bishop's visitation on May 10, 2026.

When will this be offered?
The course is 10 sessions and will be offered in person at the church, on Sundays from 3:30-5 pm . We will meet on February 1, 8, 15, 22; March 1, 8, 15; April 12, 19, 26.

What do you need to do to join us?
To help us plan, please register here .

Who do you contact if you have questions?
Please reach out to the Rev. Kelley Hudlow ( email ) with any questions.

Annual Meeting

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:10:05 GMT

Join us Sunday, January 25, between the morning worship services in the Great Hall, for our Annual Parish meeting. You will receive many vital updates from the Rev. Ed Bacon about the budget, our Rector search and much more!

Solemn Communion Begins Jan. 25

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 15:29:25 GMT

Solemn Communion begins soon, and all third graders are invited to take part. This is a gentle and meaningful series that helps children grow in their understanding of the Eucharist. Through shared stories, hands on learning, and prayer, they explore what Communion means and why it matters in their faith.

The class meets for four Sundays, followed by a Saturday retreat and a celebratory service on the final Sunday. Each child will also receive a Holy Bible as part of the journey. Dates include January 25, February 2, February 9, and February 23.

This experience helps bridge baptism and future confirmation, offering children a deeper awareness of Communion and their place in the life of the church.

Informational Meetings for Parents & Participants
January 25
9:45 AM children in the Level II atrium

January 25 2:00 PM
2:00 PM parents in the Na ve

4 Solemn Communion Classes
January 25, February 1, 8, 22
Four Sunday afternoons from 2:00-4:30 p.m. at All Saints
*Please note we will not meet on Sunday, February 15

A Solemn Communion Retreat including the Rite of Reconciliation and the Renewal of Baptismal Vows
Saturday, February 28 (held at All Saints)
9:00 AM - 1:30 PM

A Solemn Communion Celebration
Sunday, March 1
8:30 AM service at All Saints and 9:45 AM reception in Great Hall

Questions? Contact Joie Hoke, joie@allsaintsbhm.org

The God Baby Jesus Gave Us and Gives Us

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:11:41 GMT

"The God Baby Jesus Gave Us and Gives Us"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

Dec. 24, 2025

This sermon reflects on how certain moments quietly change us, marking a clear before and after in our lives. Drawing from stories of trauma, tenderness, and hope, it points to a God who heals not through judgment but through deep compassion and cherished belonging. Christmas, then, is not just about a baby in a manger, but about a God who reaches toward us, sees us fully, and invites us to live into the truth of who we are. In that love, we are called to become places of healing for others too.

Merry Christmas or Bah Humbug

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 18:13:13 GMT

"Merry Christmas or Bah Humbug"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

Dec. 21, 2025

On the longest night of the year, this sermon invites us to notice where we are on the Christmas spectrum, from full joy to quiet weariness. Matthew’s telling of the Christmas story shifts our focus away from the manger and toward Joseph, whose compassion and trust open the way for a new creation. This is not a story about a Savior who works for us or agrees with us, but about Emmanuel, God choosing to be with us in ordinary life. Even in darkness, that steady presence is the light we need most.

Ethan Armistead Answers the Call

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:17:56 GMT

All Saints is excited to announce that Ethan Armistead will be our newest seminarian. After two years of prayer and discernment, Ethan has been named a postulant for Holy Orders. He will begin seminary this fall. Ethan has listened closely for where God is leading. His message is below:

Last week I attended the Bishops Advisory Commission on Ministry. Bishop Curry has informed me that I was made a postulant for Holy Orders. I am so grateful, and delighted to announce that I will be attending seminary in the Fall! I have been in a process through the Church for about two years now, discerning my call to priesthood. I have kept a listening heart, and a posture of dependency on the Lord. A group of wise and amazing individuals helped me discern this call. Brad Landry, Bryson Waldo, Susanna Whitsett, Marisa Mitchell, Trent Ponder, and the late Joseph Slane. This group listened to me, gave wisdom, and helped me discern what this call God has put on my life means. Going to seminary means so much to me. I am able to obey what God has called me to do. I look forward to spreading God’s love, and being a vessel for the Holy Spirit. To helping others, and being a faithful servant to a good, and gracious God. Thank you All Saints!

Accessing Our Inner Light In Times of Darkness

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 20:17:01 GMT

"Accessing Our Inner Light In Times of Darkness"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

Dec. 7, 2025

Advent invites us to be honest about the darkness in our world and in our own lives, and to ask whether the dark can ever really overcome the light. This sermon talks about three advents: the birth of Jesus long ago, Christ’s coming at the end of time, and the “interior advent” where God’s light is born in us right now. He shares the story of a mother from Newtown who, in her grief, clings to the truth that there is within her an “invincible summer,” a divine light that cannot be put out. That same light lives in each of us, he says, and we learn to trust it through stillness, love, and daily choices to let our light shine in a hurting world.

Caroling Around the Neighborhood Dec. 17

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 17:38:14 GMT

We will carol all around our neighborhood, Wednesday, December 17 ! We'll start right after dinner at 5:30pm, spreading holiday cheer by singing at homes near our church. Bundle into something warm and cozy, and let's sing with the joy of the season!

Knowing What Time It Is

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 19:26:53 GMT

"Knowing What Time It Is"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

Nov. 30, 2025

This sermon invites us to pause at the start of Advent and pay attention to the kind of time we’re living in. While our days are packed with schedules and smart devices telling us where to be, Advent calls us to something deeper, God’s time, where creation, Christ, and our own lives all fit into a much bigger story. We’re reminded that we don’t need every answer or plan in place; instead, we’re invited to stay awake, stay ready, and live as though God’s light is already breaking in. In this season, our calling is simple and steady: prepare our hearts, care for others, and step into the hope that is already drawing near.

Advent Festival Dec. 3

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 19:13:27 GMT

Kick off the Advent season with our Annual Advent Festival, next Wednesday, Dec. 3, starting at 5:30pm in the Great Hall! Advent festivities includes arts & crafts and Ron May's famous spaghetti supper! Come eat dinner, make your Advent wreath, and enjoy Advent festivities such as preparing paperwhite bulbs, prayer cards, and luminaries. Bring greenery to share if possible.

Advent Lessons & Carols

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 19:22:51 GMT

Join us Sunday, December 14 for this year's Advent Lessons & Carols, led by our Youth and Children's Choirs , during the 11am service. The 8:30am & 5:30pm services will have Eucharist, 11am does not.

Love is Our Map and Our Power

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:04:07 GMT

"Love is Our Map and Our Power"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

Nov. 23, 2025

This week’s message invites us to rest in a simple but profound truth: love is the force that holds everything together. Through a personal story of chaos giving way to peace, we see how one quiet prayer can reorder a life from the inside out. As we turn toward a new liturgical year, we’re reminded that Christ’s love is not just an idea, but the living center that shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we move through the world.

St. Martha's Bake Sale

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:15:56 GMT

St. Martha’s Guild will host a Christmas Bake Sale on December 10 and 14 in the Cloister. Stop by to enjoy homemade cookies, cakes, pies, and more.

Your support helps strengthen St. Martha’s outreach work in our community.

St. Martha's Fundraiser

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 18:12:31 GMT

Support St. Martha's Guild by sponsoring the online "Rada Cutlery" sale. St. Martha's will receive 40% of the profit from online purchases! These great priced items make perfect Christmas or wedding gifts. Orders will be shipped directly to your address.

To order go to radafundraising.com , enter Birmingham Al 35209, click on St. Martha's and the catalog will appear. Rada Cutlery has much more than cutlery, so check them out today. Questions? Contact Martha Miller, mmartha763@aol.com

All Things Advent

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:19:00 GMT

Celebrate the joy and spirit of Advent with All Saints! We’re offering a variety of opportunities to get involved. From heartwarming programs to wonderful worship services, there’s something for everyone. Join us in sharing the light of Christ's birth.

Wednesday, December 24

*Children 3 years and older (who are not in the Main Cast) are invited to come to the Great Hall 30 minutes prior to the 11am or 4pm services to choose a costume, learn a song, and participate in the Christmas Pageant!

The Rev. Ed Bacon will provide the message today, titled, "The God Baby Jesus Gave Us and Gives Us."

11am - Children's Pageant with Holy Eucharist ( Live Stream )

*Nursery available

4pm - Children's Pageant with Holy Eucharist ( Live Stream )

*Nursery not available

7pm - Christmas Eve Holy Eucharist

*Nursery not available

10pm - Caroling in the Church

10:30pm - Christmas Eve Holy Eucharist ( Live Stream )

*Nursery not available

Thursday, December 25

10am - Christmas Day Holy Eucharist in the Holy Family Chapel

Preacher is the Rev. Kelley Hudlow

Sunday, December 28

Wear your PJ's!

10am - 1st Sunday of Christmas Holy Eucharist with the Blessing of the Toys and wear your PJ's! We will have a guest preacher, the Rev. Pat Gahan.

*No Sunday activities

*This is the only service on this day

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

All Saints loves Homewood, and we love Little Donkey & Good People Brewing Company for partnering with us to offer, " Bite Into Generosity: A Family Meal Fundraiser! " and a lawn party in coordination with "We Love Homewood Day", Saturday, May 6th, from 4:00pm-6:00pm on Terrell Commons.

We are raising money to benefit our Outreach Grant Programs that serve those in need around our area. There are two phases, both are fundraisers and then one is the event itself. Everything we are offering is available to everyone and anyone so spread the word. You can print or share the fundraiser .pdf and/or the lawn garden .pdf .

The first phase is a meal fundraiser which are pre-sold Little Donkey meals for a family of four ($45) and is the primary source of support we are expecting. You can only get these meals through the "pre-order." The deadline to get these meals is Wednesday, May 3, so order your meals now or certainly before then. You will pick up the meals during the time period of the event. We will have drinks available.

The second phase is our lawn party on Terrell Commons next to Oxmoor Road in conjunction with “We Love Homewood Day” on that Saturday, May 6. As you know we are right next to the parade route so come enjoy the food and fun with us starting at 4pm and then stick around to watch the parade. Little Donkey will have their food truck on-site during these times with light snacks and drinks. We are so thankful for their support as well as Good People Brewing that is donating beverages for you to enjoy.

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

A Joyful Report: Fiddlesticks Fall Singalong

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:16:18 GMT

Fiddlesticks Music hosted its largest single-day outreach event to date—a joyful Singalong Concert for families in our program and the wider community. Despite the rain, we gathered in the Great Hall, where 163 attendees filled the space with music, laughter, and connection.

Families spread out on blankets, singing along to a live music concert designed especially for children ages 0–5. The atmosphere was electric with joy; parents, caregivers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends all joined in, creating a beautiful tapestry of voices and generations.The sense of community in the room was palpable. All ages and abilities were welcomed and celebrated. It was a moment of pure musical magic.

Participants also had the opportunity to connect with staff and learn more about the All Saints Choir School and other All Saints programming for children and families. These conversations helped deepen relationships and open doors for continued musical and spiritual growth.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event so lovely and unforgettable. Here's to many more moments of shared music and joy!

Nerdy Christian Hope

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 20:44:05 GMT

"Nerdy Christian Hope"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

Nov. 16, 2025

This sermon reflects on how Scripture invites us to read, learn, and truly take in God’s word so we can understand the world around us. It connects the themes of speculative fiction, especially Afrofuturism, with Jesus’ teachings about imagining a future shaped by God rather than fear. The preacher explains how both dystopian warnings and utopian visions can wake us up and guide us toward a better tomorrow. In the end, we are reminded that God calls each of us to trust, testify, and help build a world where everyone has enough.

St. Nicholas Night Dec. 10

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:06:12 GMT

Join us on Wednesday, December 10 for a celebration of St. Nicholas! Dinner will begin at 5:30pm and the family fun event will start around 6:00pm.

We will hear the story of St. Nicholas, play St. Nick bingo, decorate bishop-shaped cookies, paper stars and a visit from the jolly ol’ Saint of the Church!

Fiddlesticks Winter Session

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 20:41:33 GMT

Registration is OPEN for our next session at Fiddlesticks Music! Session Length and Dates: Winter 2026 (10 - week) January 11 - March 21. Tuition is $185. Remember that scholarships and payment plans are available, and All Saints members receive 20% off. We also have need-based scholarship options.

Learn more or to register for the session today: www.fiddlesticks-music.com .

What We Hold Tight

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 17:26:12 GMT

"What We Hold Tight"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

Nov. 9, 2025

I love tradition, the comfort of doing what has been passed down through generations. I remember our yearly trip to Jack’s Tree Farm and how hard it was when my parents suggested a change. Like the Sadducees, I sometimes hold too tightly to the form instead of the heart of it. Jesus reminds me that love is the core, not the ritual. When I let go and follow God’s creative spirit, I see that tradition can evolve and still hold the same love and meaning at its center.

Angel Tree Partnership with Grace Episcopal

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:18:03 GMT

We’re partnering with Grace Episcopal Church this year to share the spirit of Christmas with local children in need. Choose an angel from the tree, located in our Cloister, and bring your UNWRAPPED gift back to the Great Hall between December 7 and 14 .

The toys will be distributed through Grace’s annual Christmas meal giveaway. If you’d like to help with distribution, volunteers are welcome at Grace Episcopal Church on December 16 from 8:30am to 10:30am.

Thank you for helping bring joy and hope to so many children this season. For more information connect with Sally Elwood, sallyelwood@gmail.com

Longest Night Contemplative Service Dec. 22

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:35:02 GMT

Join us Monday, December 22, at 6:00pm for our "Longest Night Contemplative Service: A Time for Reflection and Healing." This liturgy is created for those who face challenges during the holiday season. Whether from the loss of a loved one, strained relationships, health struggles, or other difficulties, come find a space for rest, reflection, and hope as we acknowledge both the struggles and the light within this season. All are welcome.

Intro to Centering Prayer Workshop Nov. 15

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:18:25 GMT

Centering Prayer is a simple but powerful pathway of transformation that illuminates what it means to ‘put on the mind of Christ.’ Join us for the Centering Prayer Introductory Workshop on Saturday, November 15, from 9:00am to 12:00pm , where Bryson Waldo will guide you through this ancient Christian meditation.

This workshop is grounded in recognizing God's inner presence within each of us. It will feature four concise presentations that explore prayer as a relationship, the Centering Prayer method, managing intrusive thoughts, and deepening your spiritual connection. You'll also experience two guided prayer sessions to practice what you've learned.

Interested in attending? Reach out to Bryson at bwaldo10@gmail.com . For more details on Centering Prayer, or to stay updated with Contemplative Outreach Birmingham, visit www.contemplativeoutreachbirmingham.org .

I Am Because We Are

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:46:07 GMT

"I Am Because We Are"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

Nov. 2, 2025

It is All Saints Sunday, a time to remember those who live on in our hearts—parents, friends, teachers, and saints like Desmond Tutu and Martin Luther King Jr. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who remind us that “I am because we are,” bound together in the interrelated structure of reality where no one stands alone. Life is changed, not ended, and the energy of those who came before still lives within us. As three children are baptized into this communion of grace and love, we celebrate that the saints past, present, and future are one.

Wonder-Full Wednesdays

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 23:26:23 GMT

Gather with us for Wonder-Full Wednesdays. Share dinner, enjoy the company, and connect with community in meaningful ways. For more information connect with the Rev. Ranie Neislar, rneislar@allsaintsbhm.org .

UPCOMING

November 12: 'Annual Chili Cookoff' from 5:30-6:30pm in our Great Hall! Bring your homemade chili in a crockpot, container, whatever you have. We will provide cornbread, drinks and a prize for the winning recipe!

November 19: We will pack hygiene kits and make a craft to spread God’s love to the Women at The Lovelady Center. All ages are welcome. We are planning to have "Thanksgiving Sides" for dinner.

December 3:

Advent Festival

Spaghetti Dinner. Prepping for Advent with things crafty and cool.

December 10:

St. Nick at Night

Pizza Dinner. Come be a part of the story of St. Nick.

December 17:

Caroling in the Neighborhood

Chick-fil-A dinner. Sing your favorite carols with a hot cup of cocoa.

Winter Items Needed

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:46:20 GMT

Help us share warmth with those in need this season. We’re collecting coats (all sizes), hats, gloves, socks, and scarves through Sunday, November 16. Donations can be dropped off in the Great Hall. Items will be distributed on Monday, November 24.

If you have any questions reach out to Ron May, rmay15@bellsouth.net

St. Martha's Lunch Nov. 17

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:54:56 GMT

All women are invited to our St. Martha's lunch, Monday, Nov. 17 at 11:30am in the Great Hall. Bring your lunch. Drinks and desserts are provided. Susanna Whitsett, Executive Director of Founders Place Ministry, will be our speaker.

Founders Place is a ministry of St. Lukes Episcopal Church that seeks to enhance quality of life for individuals living with dementia-related brain changes through an atmosphere of joy and a community of support while providing respite to caregivers.

Assist Others - SNAP

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 19:58:44 GMT

As many of you may have heard, due to the shutdown of the federal government, funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is expected to expire on November 1st. Over 750,000 Alabamians rely on SNAP benefits to feed their families, including one in four households in the Birmingham community. While we continue to pray for those affected by this pause in benefits, we at All Saints want to be proactive in responding to what could become a major need in our community. 'Homewood Helps' is opening up a market shopping day starting November 12th at the Outreach Hub, for Homewood families to come shop for free weekly groceries.

Assist in two ways:

Financial

If you would like to contribute a financial gifts, you may do so on Realm by selecting

'Outreach Fund' in the drop down or dropping off a check at the church and indicating the purpose for the funds on the check.

Donate items by November 10
Please bring any of the following breakfast items to the Great Hall: oatmeal, cereal, granola or breakfast bars, or grits.

Vestry Nominees

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:14:36 GMT

All Saints has elections each year for new Vestry members.

Here are our 2026 Vestry nominees:

Invitation to Pilgrimage

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:06:21 GMT

"Invitation to Pilgrimage"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

October 26, 2025

I'm about to tell you a story; I am a child of God, a wife and a mother and a priest in God's church, and I seek to soothe my own inadequacies by looking down on others; it's part of who I am a sinner."

"Instead of sinners and sin, let us be pilgrims navigating our search for a rich spiritual experience, because God celebrates pilgrims, and humility is the road map for our adventures as pilgrims."

"In humility, let us wonder at our own shortcomings with grace, make a gentle space within yourself to wonder, and we will watch our community become God's dream.

God's Ways Are Inside You

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 18:39:13 GMT

"God's Ways Are Inside You"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

October 19, 2025

Christianity is not fear based. It’s about grace and inclusion and justice and nonviolence. God is putting God’s covenant, God’s way of doing things inside everybody. The kingdom of God is within you, when everything is arranged according to love. Inside each of us there is a light no sin, evil, or trauma can touch. The light in me recognizes the light in you. There’s something in everybody that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine. When we hear the sound of the genuine in ourselves and in each other, the wall that separates disappears, and we become one.

Gratitude That Makes Us Whole

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:29:53 GMT

"Gratitude That Makes Us Whole"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

October 12, 2025

Luke tells of ten persons with leprosy who cried out, “Master, have mercy on us.” As they went to show themselves to the priests, they were cleansed, but one—a Samaritan, a foreigner—returned with glory and gratitude, falling at Jesus’ feet to give thanks. Jesus said, “Your faith has made you well.” Gratitude, he explained, transforms the brain, brings peace, reduces anxiety, and creates joy. Jeremiah urged the people to make their city better, and so gratitude not only heals us but helps those around us. Meister Eckhart said, “If the only prayer you ever say is thank you, it will be enough.” Gratitude changes consciousness, giving life a new wholeness and peace.

Buy a Shirt - Support Our Youth

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 19:21:17 GMT

Buy an awesome All Saints T-shirt and support our youth programs! All proceeds go directly toward youth activities and events. Deadline to order is October 31.

➡️ ORDER HERE

Mustard Seeds and Miracles

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 17:47:17 GMT

"Mustard Seeds and Miracles"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

October 5, 2025

The apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith, but Jesus reminds them that even faith as small as a mustard seed can do impossible things. True faith, he says, isn’t about quantity but quality—trusting God and hoping for what we can’t yet see. Like Saint Francis, who saw peace amid war and beauty in all creation, we’re called to live with that same hopeful faith. Stewardship, too, grows from this trust—giving our first fruits not out of fear or leftovers, but as an act of faith and hope that God can transform even our smallest offerings into something great.

Chili Cookoff Nov. 13th

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 17:50:58 GMT

Bring your heat! Or mild, for those of us with heartburn issues. Our 'Annual Chili Cookoff' will take place Wednesday Nov. 12th, from 5:30-6:30pm in our Great Hall! Bring your homemade chili in a crockpot, container, whatever you have. We will provide cornbread and drinks. Come hungry and ready to vote!

Investing In Hope

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 18:20:48 GMT

"Investing In Hope"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

September 28, 2025

Every year I look at my revenue and pledge 10% to the church, and I ask you to decide what percentage you will give to hope in this place. Hope and neighborliness run through scripture, showing that everyone is your neighbor, not separate, like the quaking aspen—one root, one organism, all one. Jeremiah buying land in prison was an act of investing in hope, trusting God’s promises. Neighborliness means loving your neighbor because they are yourself, and hope means believing God is making all things new. In our world, our nation, and our faith, the call is to reject the myth of the separate self and invest in hope—through giving, through community, and through re-visioning a healthy Christianity.

Trunk or Treat Oct. 29

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 21:33:23 GMT

Our Community Trunk-or-Treat will be held on Wednesday, October 29, from 5:30–7:00pm in the church parking lot. Everyone is invited to join us for pizza, hot dogs, chips, and water.

This year we are adding a Trunk Decorating Contest with prizes for Most Creative, Best Overall, and Best Costume. We will also have make-your-own treat bag stations for kids to enjoy.

You can get involved by providing a trunk, choosing a theme, decorating it, and registering in advance since spaces are limited. Another way to help is by bringing bags of candy to the designated basket in the Great Hall. You may also donate money on Realm by selecting “Wednesday Night Supper” in the dropdown, or volunteer to help with setup and cleanup at the link above.

If you have any questions contact Kathleen Busbee, kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org

Service of Remembrance Nov. 5

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 18:39:18 GMT

A Contemplative Service of Remembrance for All Souls and All Saints

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 6:00pm

Scam Alert!

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 22:25:12 GMT

Alert! To be clear, All Saints' Clergy, Vestry, Warden's or staff will NEVER ask for money or gift cards from you! If you receive any communication asking for money in any form at all, it is a SCAM! Or if you get texts asking for a private conversation, it is a scam!

These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, so it’s important to approach texts and emails with caution. One quick way to spot a scammer is to check the email address it came from. No matter the name, look at the email address. Emails from All Saints staff will always end with "@allsaintsbhm.org" (i.e. office@allsaintsbhm.org).

Never reply to, click on, or enter any information if you receive one of these suspicious EMAIL/TEXT messages.

Most schemes involve scammers mimicking church staff, typically posing as someone in a position of authority asking you for money transfers or gift cards. Many times, the scammers will manipulate the email address, name, or even the area code of phone numbers, so that it appears to be coming from someone you know.

Even if the email or text seems legitimate, if a request seems even remotely “off” or is asking for anything from you, don’t act on it until you confirm it with a phone call ( 205-879-8651 ) or face-to-face conversation with someone at All Saints.

Some general suggestions:

Check sender details carefully. Any suspicious emails or text message should be investigated before replying. Pay attention to the message content, including attachments and URLs.
When in doubt, call: If there are questions about any email, do not reply. Instead, call our office - 205-879-8651
Label it spam: If your email service has the ability, report the email as spam.

Here’s how you can report these scams:

Report Phishing Attacks: the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team has an Incident Reporting page to report email phishing, as well as an email to forward them to, at https://www.us-cert.gov/report-phishing .
Forward all emails to the Anti Phishing Working group at phishing-report@us-cert.gov .
Report text scams to through the Federal Trade Commission’s Complaint Assistant which helps the FTC detect patterns of fraud and abuse.

Oct. 25 - An Enneagram Retreat: The Sacred Journey of Self

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:31:29 GMT

There will be a one-day retreat, Saturday, October 25, 10:30am-4:30pm, designed to help you understand yourself more deeply and strengthen your connections with others. The Enneagram is more than a personality framework. It is a tool for understanding ourselves and the people around us with greater clarity.

This one-day retreat offers space to learn, reflect, and engage in a supportive setting. Together, we’ll explore the nine Enneagram types through presentations, small-group discussions, and type panels where individuals share their real-life experiences. Whether you are new to the Enneagram or looking to deepen your understanding, you will gain practical insights to support personal growth and strengthen relationships.

Out time will include opportunities for reflection, thoughtful conversation, and practices that encourage greater awareness. As we examine the patterns that shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, we will also consider what helps us respond with openness and understanding. You will leave with tools to apply these insights in everyday life – for yourself and in your relationships.

Facilitators:

Ginger Jefferson & Cindy Wiley

Cost:

$75 with optional lunch when you register

Where:

The Threshold Center

3794 Crosshaven Drive

Vestavia Hills, AL 35223

Click Here to Register

Volunteer Highlights

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 16:29:50 GMT

At All Saints, our ministries thrive because of the faithful people who give their time, gifts, and hearts to serve others. Each volunteer carries a story of how this work has shaped their own life, deepened their faith, and brought the mission of our church into the world in tangible ways.

Through Volunteer Highlights, we invite you to learn more about those who serve among us.

By celebrating these stories, we not only honor the individuals who serve, but also invite each of us to see how God is at work in our common life together.

w/ Joie Hoke

When I was asked to write about being a part of Children’s Formation at All Saints of course I jumped at the chance. There are few things I love more than talking about the atrium and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

When you first begin Level 1 CGS training, it becomes quickly apparent that although the atrium is a place to grow closer to God with children, it also allows adults our own unique spiritual journey that goes much deeper and further than within the walls of the atrium. There is, quite literally, not one aspect of my life that doing this work hasn’t touched. It’s helped me to be a better mom, Christian and all around, a better human. I’ve made some of my closest friends while working in the atrium and discovered so much about myself. It has given me the space to begin a faith journey that I had longed for all of my life. It led me to do EFM (another ministry I could rave about). After being a catechist for 15 years, I can say that the gifts I have received from this work have truly formed me.

When in 2005 my husband, Chris, and our one-year old son, Braden moved to Homewood, it only seemed right to register him for preschool at All Saints. After all, it had been where my husband spent his formative years. Little did I know the impact it would have on our lives would be so profound. Soon after Braden started preschool in the 2’s class, preschool parents were given the opportunity to get an atrium “lesson”. I jumped at this chance, as I had seen the atrium when I toured the preschool and was immediately intrigued. I also felt strongly about seeing what type of religious formation my child was going to be exposed to. When Stephanie Diethelm, who started atrium in Alabama at our very own All Saints Episcopal Church, gave the Good Shepherd lesson, it was like my eyes had finally been opened. I’d been waiting for a method like this my whole life. An opportunity to hear words from the Bible and to be asked, “What did you hear?”. Well suffice it to say it brought me tears of joy. My heart was so full knowing that Braden (and later Callen) would have a space to explore and think deeply about Jesus’ words on his own terms, and not to be told by someone what they meant. I’ll never forget that day.

Soon after we joined All Saints and I began Level 1 training (for 3-6 year olds) of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. I dug in deep. The first Sunday I was scheduled to volunteer in the atrium, my then 4 year old Braden said to me, “This is such a special day for you!”. And he was so right. Shortly thereafter, in addition to volunteering at the church, I started as a catechist for the preschool and joined the All Saints Children’s Formation staff.

I believe we are currently at a crossroads in our country in exposing young people to Christianity. Younger generations are going to church less and less these days. The current Christian climate doesn’t always allow for wonder. We have such an invaluable opportunity to grow our flock at All Saints in this work. I believe that there are parents with young children who are searching for a method like CGS to expose their children to the Gospel in a space which allows them to quietly contemplate and ponder the Kingdom of God. The atrium is a place that invites children to quiet their bodies, minds, hearts and souls; to “be still” and grow to closer to God.

Just a few weeks ago when we had our Atrium open house, a group of All Saints EYC teenagers, on their own, visited Children’s Formation. The joy and the memories these teens experienced being back in the atrium again, was palpable. I also see the lasting effects it has had on my own kids. Not only has this work formed me, it has formed my two sons (20 and 16), and has guided them to be the people they are today; full of love, empathy and knowledge in our Lord. There are countless others I have met from all over our country (and beyond) who credit the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd as a true gift from God. I am beyond thankful that All Saints continues to consider this work a vital part of our community.

God Bless,

Joie Hoke

w/ Lisa Hallman

Pastoral Care at All Saints lives out our mission, “Embodying Christ’s Transforming Love,” through the ways we care for one another in times of joy, uncertainty, and grief. Clergy and parishioners work together to meet needs as they arise.

One ministry available to everyone is our confidential prayer ministry. It provides a private way to request prayer when you prefer not to be on the public list used during services. A phone tree spreads requests quickly, and you can share as much or as little information as you wish. Peggy Gilbert and Sally Vick have faithfully led this ministry for more than 30 years.

Our card ministry sends over 30 cards each month to those who are sick, homebound, grieving, or simply in need of encouragement. Sally Vick has led this ministry for more than three decades.

The Meal Team delivers 10–12 meals each month to parishioners who are ill, recovering from surgery or an accident, grieving an immediate family member, or celebrating the arrival of a new baby. Michele Suttle, Pam Phillips, and Lisa Hallman coordinate this ministry.

Flowers used on Sundays are divided on Mondays and delivered to those who may need a lift. Pam Holby has overseen this work for many years. Our knitting group, “In Stitches,” meets weekly to make prayer shawls that clergy share with parishioners who are hospitalized or facing serious illness. Memily Colvin leads this group.

Nancy Terrell leads our Wedding Guild, offering guidance and support to couples as they plan their wedding, attend the rehearsal, and celebrate their day. She has served in this role for many years and helps us extend love to those beginning their life together.

Lay Eucharistic Visitors bring communion to those unable to attend church, sharing God’s love in a deeply meaningful way for both giver and receiver. Joseph Slane and Bryson Waldo lead this ministry. When a parishioner has ongoing or complex needs, a Care Team may be formed to provide additional support. Clergy can help coordinate this when needed.

The funeral hospitality team shows love and comfort to grieving families by providing a reception during visitation on the day of the funeral. Martha Miller and Donna Gooch led this group for many years, and Janet Guest has recently taken over for Martha. The Pastoral Care Committee meets once a month and includes clergy, ministry leaders, and volunteers.

I am committed to this ministry because of the care shown to my parents, Diane and Larry Wilson, and to our family during their declining health and death. They were touched by nearly every ministry, and I will never forget the kindness shown to us. I grew up at All Saints, spent 30 years in Tuscaloosa, and have been back home for about three and a half years. I believe Pastoral Care is one of the things All Saints is most known for in the diocese, and I hope it always will be. Please let the church know when you are in the hospital, have a death in your family, or have any needs one of our ministries can help meet.

If you would like to be involved in any of these ministries, we would love to have you. You can contact me, Lisa Hallman, at Hallman.lisaw@gmail.com .

w/ Erin Donahoo and Kathleen Pridgen

Program Description: The Acolyte Ministry at All Saints provides children and youth with a meaningful opportunity to actively participate in worship services. The role of an acolyte in the Christian church has evolved over centuries, and today in the Anglican tradition acolytes serve as lay leaders who help guide worship with reverence and purpose. In our church, acolytes assist in the liturgy by carrying crosses, candles, the Gospel book, and by helping prepare the altar for Eucharist. By serving as acolytes, young members of our congregation take on leadership roles that foster reverence, responsibility, and spiritual engagement.

Volunteer Background: Erin Donohoo and Kathleen Pridgen have been serving as acolyte co-masters since 2023. Erin and her family have been members of All Saints since 2009, with her children serving as acolytes since 2018, and Kathleen and her family have been members of All Saints since 2017, with her children serving as acolytes since 2021.

Why We’re Committed to This Ministry: We are deeply committed to the Acolyte Ministry because we believe in empowering children and youth with appropriate levels of responsibility within their families and faith communities. This kind of engagement helps them develop a sense of purpose beyond themselves, encouraging them to recognize their unique gifts and roles. The Episcopal liturgy is rich and beautiful, but for some, it can feel formal, mysterious, or even inaccessible. Involving children and youth in the liturgy reveals its inclusivity—it shows that they are not only welcome but capable of deep appreciation and reverence. Serving as an acolyte nurtures their spiritual growth and sense of wonder, and helps them connect more fully to the rhythms and meaning of worship.

Why This Work Matters to All Saints and Our Mission: Serving as an acolyte offers younger members a tangible and impactful way to participate in the life of the church and enact what they’ve learned in children’s formation. We especially appreciate how the liturgy, sacraments, and life of the church that are introduced to children as young as 3 years old in the Atrium come to life as children walk through the service. Our earliest children's formation is grounded in the belief that children have an inherent relationship with God and desire to understand and celebrate that relationship, and we see the acolyte ministry as a natural continuation of this work. This hands-on experience deepens their understanding of our traditions and reinforces the spiritual education many of them have already received.

In what ways does the ministry's work embody the mission of our church? The Acolyte Ministry beautifully embodies All Saints’ mission to be a reverent, nurturing, and inclusive community of seekers. By inviting children and youth into active liturgical roles, we honor the Image of God within each person and affirm that reverence is not limited by age—it is a posture of the heart held toward God and one another. The ministry fosters intergenerational connection and inclusion in worship and introduces children and youth to just one way they can seek and serve Christ in service to others.

How has your work personally impacted your life? Serving in this ministry has connected us more deeply with families across our congregation and helped our own children grow in maturity and responsibility. We’ve come to know so many of the children in our church—their personalities, interests, and gifts—and in turn we also stay connected to their families. Erin notes that it’s profoundly moving to see children she’s known since they were toddlers now leading the processional. We often reassure nervous new acolytes that mistakes are part of learning, and that our congregation is not only forgiving but genuinely delighted to see young people taking part in worship. This ministry sends a powerful message: everyone is welcome, appreciated, and loved.

What unique needs does it address in our congregation? As children grow older and their schedules become increasingly full, the Acolyte Ministry offers an anchor to their spiritual lives. Choosing to serve—especially when it means waking early on a Sunday—helps them stay connected to something larger than themselves: the church community, our liturgical traditions, and the sacred celebration of the Eucharist. It also strengthens relationships between youth and clergy, musicians, and lay eucharistic ministers, forming a truly intergenerational worship team.

What lasting and positive changes have you witnessed as a direct result of the work? Through the Acolyte ministry, we’ve witnessed remarkable growth in the youth of the church. Many begin with nervousness, unsure of their role, but with practice they gain confidence and capability. Some of the most hesitant children blossom into enthusiastic leaders—often the first to volunteer when a substitute is needed. This transformation speaks to the supportive environment we’ve cultivated and the value that the children see in their work. The most common feedback we hear is that they enjoy having both a practical job and a meaningful role in the service. That joy and sense of purpose is the heart of this ministry.

w/ Julie Jurotich

Eric and I have been at All Saints for 23 years. I’ve worked with Invite, Welcome, Connect (IWC) for two years, drawn in by Sally Elwood & Trisha Trigg when we returned to Homewood from Atlanta.

IWC is the heart of All Saints to me. We are a small but mighty group of clergy, staff and parishioners that works to bring new people into All Saints and energize and engage current members. Our role is connection through fun and fellowship with the Holy Spirt guiding our actions. We try to create and foster positive interactions between visitors and members with Coffee & Connect each month and follow up notes and gifts to visitors. We facilitate annual events including Trunk or Treat and All Saints Loves Homewood Day.

IWC has fostered a deeper connection to All Saints for me. My role in IWC prompts me to reach out to new people with a purpose, giving me a comfort factor that I wouldn’t normally have. We’ve worked hard to create more inviting spaces, from the transformed Narthex to refreshed public areas. The guiding hand of Cindy Carter was invaluable over the last two years. Ed Bacon tells me he wants to get to know and be a part of our group. The future is bright and we’d love to add more people to IWC.

Julie Jurotich

w/ Ron May

⦿ How has your work in our outreach ministries personally impacted your life?

My participation in Avondale Breakfast Ministry (ABM), in particular, has taught me that we all need and want to connect to other people. Everyone wants to be seen, heard, and loved. Each week, ABM presents opportunities to give to others and receive from others as well. All of the outreach ministries allow us to exercise our compassion and know that God's grace is for all of us no matter what our circumstances.

⦿ In what ways does the work embody the mission of our church?

To me "outreach" means showing other people how much we love God by loving other people. Giving someone a cup of coffee and a sausage biscuit is a first step in letting that person know that they matter to you and that they matter to God. We are all "One Body".

⦿ What unique needs does it address in our congregation?

I believe people need and want to give of themselves. ABM and the other outreach ministries are organized ways for our parish to give back materially and spiritually to those in hunger, in pain and in need of belonging.

⦿ What lasting positive changes have you witnessed as a direct result of the work in the ministry?

When we participate in our outreach ministries, our ability to see the needs around us expands. We see additional ways to reach out to our community and the world. "Love begets Love". The real challenge is to use our resources as effectively as possible. Needs will always outpace our ability to address them, but we should not give up helping just because we cannot satisfy all the needs we identify.

Fiddlesticks Fall Singalong Nov. 8

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 20:13:50 GMT

Join Fiddlesticks Music, a Music Together® Center, for a free outdoor singalong, Saturday, November 8, at 11:00am on the Terrell Commons green (by the playground). This event is for infants through age 5 with their grown-ups, and it is free and open to the community. Bring a blanket to sit on and come ready to sing and play. Enjoy crunchy leaves, bubbles, singing together, and hot cocoa, fall at its best.

RSVP HERE

The World Doesn't Need a Polite Church

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:45:31 GMT

"The World Doesn't Need a Polite Church"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

September 21, 2025

My grandmother told me never to talk about religion, politics, or money, but Jesus of Nazareth did not grow up in Mobile, Alabama. The gospels don’t give us a polite Jesus, and today’s parable talks about all three at once. In the story of the shrewd manager, Jesus makes us wrestle with money, power, and allegiance—whether to God or to the world. This parable leaves no place to hide, because all of us know what it is to have resources, debt, fear, dishonesty, or reputation to protect. The dishonest manager used resources to create community built on forgiveness and care; how much more can we, followers of Jesus, do if we do it on purpose? The world doesn’t need a polite church—it needs a bold church, shrewd in choosing God, sharing resources, forgiving, and building the kingdom of God.

Babies Only Fiddlesticks Music Class Oct. 14

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:20:24 GMT

Babies Only Fiddlesticks Music Class

Join Maggie Gill for a special Babies Only Fiddlesticks Music Class designed just for newborns to 10-month-olds and their caregivers who are new to Music Together®. This gentle, joyful introduction to music gives you and your baby a chance to sing, move, and bond through rhythm and play.

When: Tuesday, October 14, 2025 · 11:30am–12:15pm
Room: The Great Hall (enter through the wood/glass front doors; follow the signs).

At least four participants are needed for the class to run, so invite a friend!

SIGN UP HERE

Growing in Faith Together

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:36:29 GMT

As part of our Stewardship Season , we encourage sharing one another’s stories about how All Saints has shaped our lives, how we use our gifts, and why supporting the church matters.

Jay Murrill shares how his family joined All Saints in 2005 seeking community and found it deeply fulfilling through every stage of life, births, losses, and everything between.

Mel and Alexa McElroy describe raising their children, serving through leadership, and giving to help the church grow. Their story shows how every gift creates a ripple of faith and community.

Jeffery Colvin describes All Saints as a welcoming, like-minded community where he’s found growth and connection through service and believes financial giving helps the church thrive and serve others.

Duke & Nancy Terrell reflect on how All Saints became their family, the many ways they’ve served, and why giving back has been such a blessing.

God’s Grace for All

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:38:14 GMT

"God’s Grace for All"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

September 14, 2025

We heard good news in the gospel, and sometimes good news is unsettling, like abundant grace for all that feels frustrating. In today’s parable we learn God’s people are infinitely precious, that we can be the 99 or the one, and yet no one is beyond God’s irrational, even wasteful-seeming grace. God’s dream is a reconciled, diverse community, but wounds of polarization threaten us, and we are reminded that we are made to receive and extend grace—to those near, those wandering, and even those we think don’t deserve it.

Transformed Prayer, Persons, Theology, and World

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 23:58:37 GMT

Join us for a Series on Zoom, “Transformed Prayer, Persons, Theology, and World." This is every Tuesday at 7:00pm , the Rev. Ed Bacon leads a weekly online gathering on Zoom, all about Contemplative Christianity.

The series explores how this tradition offers discernment for moral action and an alternative to viewing God as outside us, revealing instead the God who is within us as One.

To request Zoom information, email bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

20's Together Every Sunday 8pm

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:53:50 GMT

Twenties Together meets every Sunday evening from 8:00pm to 9:00pm at the home of Trent & Mona Ponder. Currently, they are studying the book by All Saints Interim Rector the Rev. Ed Bacon, "8 Habits of Love."

For more information connect with Mona Ponder, ponderthisnow@yahoo.com

Faith & the Modern Family

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 18:19:05 GMT

This fall, we invite you to join us for Faith & The Modern Family , an engaging series that takes a fresh look at the intersection of faith and family in today’s world.

Each week, a different speaker will lead discussion on timely and relevant topics designed to help us grow in faith together. The series runs from September 14 through December 14 in Room 223, in between services .

Here’s the schedule of upcoming sessions:

Sept 14 – The Rev. Ranie Neislar
Sept 21 – Josh Reeves
Sept 28 – The Rev. Ed Bacon
Oct 5 – Emily Holm
Oct 12 – The Rev. Ranie Neislar
Oct 19 – Josh Reeves
Oct 26 – Drew Hataway
Nov 2 – No Class
Nov 9 – David Smith
Nov 16 – Chris Couch
Nov 23 – No Class
Nov 30 – Susanna Whitsett
Dec 7 – The Rev. Kelley Hudlow
Dec 14 – Memily Colvin

Drop in anytime, each week features a new topic, so you can come when it works for you.

For more details, contact the Rev. Ranie Neislar at rneislar@allsaintsbhm.org .

Centering Prayer Series - Every Tuesday

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 23:50:42 GMT

Every Tuesday, the Rev. Ed Bacon leads a weekly Centering Prayer gathering from 5:30pm–6:30pm in the All Saints Chapel. These sessions, “Letting Go to Listen,” explore the essence of Centering Prayer. Everyone is welcome!

Reworked Into a New Vessel

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 15:38:04 GMT

"Reworked Into a New Vessel"

Sermon by The Rev. Ed Bacon

September 7, 2025

I knew that my true identity was a universalist, that God is inside me and me inside God, and life can be about duty or love, and the energy of love is a million times stronger than the energy of duty. Let go of everything that’s not beloved, consent to the reworking of the clay of your life on the potter’s field, and All Saints, Homewood Birmingham is known as the place where I know God is inside me and I’m inside God.

Choir BBQ Sept. 21

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 16:38:06 GMT

The Choir BBQ is Sunday, September 21! Join us in the Great Hall for lunch following the 11:00 service. The Adult Choir will be serving bbq pork, buns, baked beans, slaw, brownies, and lemonade. Hot dogs will be available for kids. To-go plates are available after both the 8:30am and 11:00am services.

Whole butts
$45
Order by 9/17; quantities are limited, so order early to make sure you get one!
Family Meals for 4
$35
Order by 9/17
Individual Plates
$10
Eat-in or to-go; no reservation required

Contact Melanie Couch at mcouch@allsaintsbhm.org with any questions.

All proceeds will benefit the Adult Choir music ministry. Thanks for your support!

Game Night on the Lawn Sept. 17

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:44:53 GMT

Game Night on the Lawn – September 17 ! Starts at 5:30pm with pizza dinner, lawn games, and plenty of fun. A relaxed evening on the lawn with food, games, and fun for all ages.

Pet Blessing Oct. 1

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:15:19 GMT

Our Annual Blessing of the Animals will be Wednesday, October 2 on the Terrell Commons grass area! Bring your lawn chair or blanket to enjoy a hot dog dinner together that starts at 5:30pm, blessing of the animals will be after we eat.

The Blessing of the Animals is an annual ceremony celebrating the human-animal bond, originating as part of the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. St. Francis was admired for his deep and genuine respect for all creatures and his belief in the interdependency of humans with the rest of creation. He was a fiery preacher, and not many wanted to hear his message so he preached to animals instead. This ceremony helps us to remember how important our animal companions are and how they show unconditional love for us.

If you have an older less mobile pet, or maybe one that doesn't handle social gatherings very well, feel free to bring a picture of that animal and we are happy to bless those.

Hospitality That Remembers

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 15:37:35 GMT

"Hospitality That Remembers"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

August 31, 2025

This morning’s gospel reminded me of Downton Abbey, where seating at the table showed power and honor, much like the Pharisees’ dinner Jesus attended. He taught not to seek the best seat, but to humble ourselves, and he told the host to invite the poor and powerless who cannot repay. These parables are about more than dinner parties—they point to the Lord’s Table, where all come humbly, receiving grace we cannot earn or repay. Hebrews calls us to remember those who suffer, as though we were with them, and to act with love and hospitality as God remembers us. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, calling us outside our comfort to share what we have and bear with those the world forgets.

Fiddlesticks Fun

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:06:52 GMT

What a summer it’s been for Fiddlesticks Music!

From late May until now, we’ve been singing, dancing, and drumming our way across Birmingham, bringing people together from all walks of life into one joyful circle of music. Every time we sing with children, we’re shining the light of Christ in our community, breaking down barriers and building connections among families of many different stories, cultures, and resources. This summer alone, we’ve touched hundreds of lives through the power of music.

Highlights from the season:

In May, our Fiddlesticks Family Sing-along Concert filled the Great Hall with over 70 voices, young and old, singing in harmony.
In June, we celebrated the National Day of Making at the McWane Science Center by making music together and helping little ones craft their own instruments.
We returned to McWane to mark the 10th Anniversary of Itty Bitty Magic City with joyful songs and play.
At the Birmingham Folk Festival, our classes at the Avondale Library had children and caregivers singing and moving together all afternoon.
We brought free demo classes to the Homewood Library, introducing even more families to the joy of Music Together®.
And all spring, we partnered with UAB Head Start, bringing music-making to families who might not otherwise have that opportunity.

At Fiddlesticks Music Together®, we provide weekly 45-minute classes for children from infancy through age eight, following a research-based curriculum designed to nurture musical growth and create meaningful connections. But our calling is much bigger than that. Our doors are open to families of all identities, abilities, and ages—because music, and the love that pours out through All Saints, is for everyone.

Fall Registration

Registration is open for FALL Session 2025! The 11-week fall session is September 7 - November 22 . These Fiddlesticks Music classes are perfect for infants to 5-year olds and their "grown-ups." Parents, grandparents, or nannies come make music with your little one through singing, dancing, and musical play! When you register, make sure to let us know that you are a member at All Saints, to receive 20% off of the $195 tuition. We also have need-based scholarship options. Learn more or to register for the session today:

www.fiddlesticks-music.com .

Rest as Restoration

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 19:05:00 GMT

"Rest as Restoration"

Sermon by The Rev. Cameron Nations

August 24, 2025

Our culture offers rest as “brain rot” or “optimization,” but neither brings restoration. God’s vision for rest is richer—restoration, liberation, and resilience, drawing us closer to God and one another. In Scripture, Sabbath rest is not absence but presence—God’s life-giving spirit that restores and sustains us. If you are weary, bent down, or burdened, hear Jesus’ words: Come to me, all who are weary, and I will give you rest.

Spiritual Gifts Assessment

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 18:47:23 GMT

Have you ever wondered where your gifts might be leading you? This survey is designed to help you reflect on your strengths and how they might be used in meaningful ways. This will give you insights into areas where your talents and passions may align with opportunities to serve.

Once you’ve finished, we’ll receive your results and reach out to you to talk more about what they reveal.

Choir School Kickoff Party August 27

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 11:10:47 GMT

Interested in choirs for children and youth at All Saints? The Choir School Kickoff Party is Wednesday, August 27, at 6:00pm! We will play musical bingo, eat pizza and have a fabulous time getting to know each other. Parents will have a brief orientation during festivities. Come join if you are interested in the following groups: Good Shepherd Choir (4yrs-1st grade. Note: these kids attend the party with a parent), Children's Choir (grades 2-6), and Youth Choir (7-12).

For more info, email Maggie Gill, Youth and Children's Music Director, at mgill@allsaintsbhm.org .

Meals for EYC/Youth

Sat, 23 Aug 2025 15:26:36 GMT

Our youth program needs your help providing meals for Sunday school breakfast and then for dinner on Sunday evenings. You can cook or bring anything you think would be enjoyable to eat for our youth. Breakfast should serve approximately 10-20 people, Sunday school begins at 9:45am. Dinners should be provided for around 20-30 people. Check with Grace below for specific dinner times.

For more information, contact our Director of Youth Ministries, Grace Turner ( gturner@allsaintsbhm.org ).

The Rev. Ed Bacon Joins All Saints as Interim Rector

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:10:01 GMT

Dear All Saints' Family,

On behalf of the vestry, Alexa McElroy and I, your wardens, are very pleased to announce we have called the Rev. Ed Bacon to be our Interim Rector . We have been in conversation with him since late July and have found him to be a person with great spiritual and practical gifts. In this time of transition I believe Ed will be the pastor who can bring us together, and help us prepare to embody Christ’s transforming love with our next rector.

He will be with us on Game Day, September 7, working with staff in the meantime. September 28 will be his first regular Sunday at All Saints .

With love and prayers,
Martha Bains
Senior Warden

From Ed:

Dear Members and friends of All Saints Church,

I’m delighted to have been named your Interim Rector. These past few weeks of discernment with your wardens, vestry, and staff have inspired my wife and me. That inspiration suggests a relationship with you of growth and energy as we pray, work, heal, and serve together, preparing to receive your next rector.

Our discernment process began when Bishop Curry called in July with her conviction that my journey so far would match your current needs and gifts. My wife, Hope, and I were immediately attracted in that we know and admire All Saints, where I enjoyed worshipping and speaking in my early retirement several years ago when my friend, Glenda, was your rector.

Our primary residence has been in Hoover since I retired in 2016 from a 21-year rectorate at All Saints Church, Pasadena, Ca. We moved to Alabama because our daughter, her husband, and their children have lived in Helena since graduation from Birmingham Southern. (Our son lives in New Orleans where his son has just entered kindergarten at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School.)

I’m grateful for a joyful and graced priesthood, leading three different Episcopal Churches (in Dalton, Ga., Jackson, Ms., and Pasadena, Ca.) after my ordination in 1983. Prior to being confirmed, I was ordained in the Southern Baptist Church in 1971, serving as Campus Minister and then Dean of Students at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.

I’m energized by contemplative spirituality articulated by Thomas Merton, Thomas Keating, Barbara Holmes, Howard Thurman, Cynthia Bourgeault, Ilia Delio, Richard Rohr, and Teilhard de Chardin. Merton’s thinking about the false and true self in each of us (the mind of Christ in each of us, 1 Corinthians 2:16) has informed my preaching, teaching, and priesting since the beginning of my ministry. In 2012, my book, 8 Habits of Love, unpacked my passion about the power of love over fear . Flowing from I John 4, where God is named, “Love,” I have experienced Holy Love winning over fear in every situation. I’m also inspired by the interface of Jesus’s call to be One (John 17) and science’s findings that there is no separateness in our uni-verse. T he Oneness of everyone and everything in God is our roadmap for healing divisions. Oneness reveals the lie in the myth of the separate self. Albert Einstein and others have taught us that we live together with all of creation where all matter is interconnected energy. I love examining the gifts of science for healthy religion. I love to refer often to the 47,000-tree trunk, 106-acre rootball of quaking aspens that actually is one organism, one DNA, one plant called “Pando” in southern Utah.

Finally, my self-introduction would be incomplete without noting these last 6 years of my life I playfully refer to as “flunking retirement.” Just before COVID, I became Interim Rector of the parish where I was trained and ordained, St. Luke’s, Atlanta. Then 18 months ago, the bishop in East Tennessee called me to teach Contemplative and Centering Prayer at St. Paul’s Church, Chattanooga. I love and enjoy interim work and look forward to sharing my joys and love with you.

Blessings always,
Ed Bacon

Kitchen Cleanup

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 18:59:52 GMT

Love our church kitchen? Time to return the favor! We’re giving it a deep clean, Saturday, Aug. 30, from 10am to 1pm , and need your helping hands. Just show up, stay the whole time or as long as you can. It’s a simple way to get involved and help freshen up the space that feeds you! Coffee, juice, and donuts will be served. We would appreciate a steam cleaner for the floors. If you have one you wouldn't mind loaning for this project, please reach out to Ron May at rmay15@gmail.com .

Upcoming Activity List

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 18:58:52 GMT

This page provides a list of upcoming activities for Sundays, Wednesdays, and other days. *Through Sunday, Sept. 14

Wednesday, September 3

Wednesday night Atrium starts back
6:00p - 7:15p
3 year olds - 6th grade
Choir School programming starts back
*Please note time changes for Shepherd Choir 5:30pm-6:10pm, Children's Choir 6:15pm-7:15pm, and Youth Choir 6:15pm-7:30pm.

Thursday, September 4

Children’s Formation Orientations: Level 1 (new 3–5 year olds)
6p-7p

Sunday, September 7

Full Adult Choir returns during Worship
Game Day between morning services
EYC Kickoff Party

Monday September 8 *If you missed previous opportunities

Children’s Formation Orientations: Level 1 (new 3–5 year olds)
6p-7p

Sunday, September 14

ALL Sunday activities start back including EYC and Atrium
*NOTE: Sunday Atrium is NOT in session until this date
Roberson Project 4:00p-5:00p

Unstoppable Transformation

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 18:19:28 GMT

"Unstoppable Transformation"

Sermon by The Rev.Ranie Neislar

August 17, 2025

I am from Georgia, but I am putting roots down here in Birmingham, naming this city as our home. Birmingham was built on raw materials—iron, coal, limestone—that combined to make steel, earning it the name Magic City. Transformation and creativity are trademarks of God’s power and of this city. Like Sloss Furnace, once abandoned but reborn as a place for community, we too are called to be transformed. Fire can destroy, but it can also refine and strengthen like steel. All Saints has literally risen from the ashes, a prophetic community embodying God’s lasting word. We are like those rocks broken into smaller stones, renewed for new work. At heart, All Saints is a place of unstoppable transformation—a Magic City Church—where God’s power makes us stronger so we can go out and do God’s work. And so, if you had to make a statement about what God is saying to you here, how would you finish this sentence: And God said…

Jonathan & Ruby's Faith

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 23:40:21 GMT

"Jonathan & Ruby's Faith"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

August 10, 2025

I traveled to Montgomery for the 60th anniversary of Jonathan Daniels’ death, where we remembered him, Ruby Sales, and other martyrs of Alabama. Jonathan, moved by Mary’s words in the Magnificat, came to Selma in 1965, worked for civil rights, and ultimately gave his life shielding Ruby from a shotgun blast. Ruby, sustained by her faith, testified against his killer. In Hayneville, I reflected on Hebrews’ words—faith is assurance of things hoped for—and how Jonathan, Ruby, and the pilgrims there lived by a faith that looked beyond the brokenness of the world to God’s promised kingdom. We need that same faith today, one willing to sacrifice for justice and mercy.

A Crazy Dream and a Greater Reality

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:05:41 GMT

"A Crazy Dream and a Greater Reality"

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

August 3, 2025

I dreamed of cashing out my retirement to open a Blockbuster video store, holding on to 90s nostalgia. But that foolishness is like the rich man tearing down barns to build bigger ones, ignoring the Kingdom of God. I come to the Eucharist to set my mind on things above, where Christ calls me, forgives me, and shows me how I am connected to each other, to all creation, and to the heart of God.

Jonathan Daniels Pilgrimage August 9

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 15:21:50 GMT

If you are interested in attending with a group from All Saints, we will be taking our van. Bus boards at 8:15am here at All Saints.

The Annual Jonathan Daniels Pilgrimage is Saturday, August 9 at 11:00am in Hayneville, Alabama. This year’s guest preacher is the 27th Presiding Bishop, Michael Bruce Curry. Elected in June 2015 at the Episcopal Church’s 78th General Convention and installed that November, Bishop Curry serves as the Church’s chief pastor, spokesperson, and president and CEO.

Come and experience this holy event in this sacred place and to take back home with you gratitude, repentance, and resolve to continue the work left unfinished by blessed Jonathan. The procession will travel from the square to the old County Jail where Daniels was among those detained for a week after being arrested in Fort Deposit for picketing white-only businesses. The procession continues to the site of the old Varner’s Cash Store, where Daniels was killed. It ends in the Lowndes County Courthouse, where a service of Holy Communion will be celebrated in the courtroom where the man who shot Daniels had been tried and acquitted by an all-white jury.

OJ & Outreach August 17

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 21:01:46 GMT

OJ & Outreach will be Sunday, August 17, 10:00am in the Great Hall! We need YOUR help to make this happen! Please sign up HERE !

We will be packing food into 140 backpacks for Homewood Helps. These will go home with food insecure students to ensure that they have something to eat over the weekends.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Game Day Sept. 7

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 08:50:30 GMT

It’s Game Day at All Saints, Sunday, September 7 ! Join us at 9:45am in the Great Hall for an hour of fun, fellowship, and food. You’ll discover ways to connect, get involved, and find your place on Team All Saints, you belong here!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Happy Mediums Sept. 28

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 20:59:23 GMT

Feeling caught in the middle? Not fresh out of college, but not quite in your 60’s yet? The Happy Mediums group is just for you! We’re a community of 30–50 year olds who gather once a month for fellowship and fun.

Our next gathering is Sunday, September 28, from 2:30–5:00pm in the Great Hall. Join us for snacks, fellowship, and a Mahjong lesson! We’ll have tables for both beginners and experienced players—so whether you’re brand new or already hooked, you’ll fit right in. Bring a snack to share, leave the kids at home, and come enjoy the afternoon with us!

RSVP HERE

Pray Boldly, Without Shame

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 17:50:46 GMT

"Pray Boldly, Without Shame"

Sermon by The Rev. Cameron Nations

July 27, 2025

Prayer is tender, vulnerable, and central to human experience—expressing longing, seeking wisdom, and shaping our will to align with God’s. Jesus teaches us not just the Lord’s Prayer, but to approach God with “shameless audacity,” not as wish-fulfillment, but as trust that God hears us and gives us what we need—even if not always what we ask. So pray boldly, dispense with propriety, and speak to God like a child to a loving parent: “Dad, be with me now, give me what I need, help me forgive, and never let me walk alone."

Blessing of the Backpacks Aug. 10

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:59:43 GMT

I know, we don't want to admit it is coming, but it is, school is almost here. As part of that, the "Blessing of the Backpacks" will be Sunday, August 3 and 10 during the 8:30am, 11:00am and 5:30pm services . All ages are welcome to bring backpacks, school supplies, books or just you as an educator or student. The clergy will say a special blessing to start the school year!

Back to Three Worship Services August 3

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 20:57:04 GMT

Beginning Sunday, August 3, All Saints will return to three worship services at 8:30am, 11:00am, and 5:30pm. More information about breakfast and t he nursery schedule to come, check back soon.

If you are unable to attend our services, find our live stream archives HERE , and our sermons HERE .

Register NOW for Parish Retreat Aug. 22-24

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:39:01 GMT

The first 15 to register will receive a prize! The 2025 All Saints Parish Retreat weekend at Camp McDowell kicks off Friday, August 22 , with check-in starting at 4:30 pm and wraps up with lunch on Sunday, August 24 around noon.

Whether you're joining us for the weekend, staying one night, or just coming for the day on Saturday, we’re glad you’ll be part of it. Enjoy unstructured time, good company, great food, and a mix of fun activities. Try out camp favorites like canoeing, hiking, a hayride, and the pasture party, or just take it easy in a rocking chair. It’s a chance to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones in a place that brings people together.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Orientation

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:18:01 GMT

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a hands-on, Montessori-based faith formation for children ages 3 through 6th grade. It nurtures a child’s relationship with God through scripture, liturgy, and rich sensory experiences in a sacred space called the Atrium. Children reflect on Bible stories and prayers by working with materials like figures of the Good Shepherd and sheep, a miniature altar, or baptism symbols—engaging their hearts and minds in the great mysteries of the Christian faith.

Orientation dates and kickoff events are set:

Level II & III (1st–6th grade) Orientation

Sunday, August 17, 10:00–10:45am

Level I (3-year-olds* & new 4–5-year-olds) Orientation

Thursday, September 4, 6:00–7:00pm or

Monday, September 8, 6:00–7:00pm

*Children must be 3 years old and potty-trained by September 1, 2025.

First Day of Atrium: Sunday, September 14, at 8:15am or 9:45am

Please contact Kathleen Busbee, kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org with questions.

Acolyte Training August 10

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 16:09:22 GMT

Acolyte training is set for Sunday, August 10 . If your child is in 4th to 12th grade, we'd love to have them join our acolyte team rotation. Please register before the training using the button above.

This training is mandatory for all new and returning acolytes. We'll provide lunch, hold a parent meeting, and begin the training session right after the 11:00am service. For any questions, contact Kathleen Pridgen ( kathleenhpridgen@gmail.com ) or Erin Donohoo ( erin.donohoo@gmail.com ).

Finance Report

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 01:05:49 GMT

This is a monthly report of our year-to-date income and expenses.

Through October 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through September 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through August 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through July 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through June 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through May 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through April 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

Through March 2025

The actual revenue is better than budget due to initial Close the Gap contributions.

A look at our blessings and our bills! This is a monthly report of our year-to-date income and expenses through April 2025 :

Children's Formation Upcoming Activities

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 16:43:35 GMT

This summer, Vacation Bible School at All Saints was full of joy, laughter, and meaningful moments, especially the beautiful sight of middle and high schoolers, once VBS kids themselves, now returning as volunteers. With parents, grandparents, and so many others involved, it truly felt like a village coming together in Galilee.

As we turn toward fall, there’s more to look forward to:

Blessing of the Backpacks happens on August 3 and 10 at all three services. Backpack tags will be available for children, students of all ages, and working adults, yes, they fit on briefcases too!
Children’s Formation Orientations :
Level 2 & 3 (1st–6th grade): August 17 at 10:00am
Level 1 (new 3–5 year olds): September 2 or September 8, 6–7pm
Parish Retreat at Camp McDowell is August 22–24 . For kids of all ages, whether for a night, the weekend, or just a day, it’s a time of fun, connection, and worship.
Atrium sessions resume on Sunday, September 14 , with gatherings at 8:15am and 9:45am .

We’re grateful for all who helped make this summer special and are excited for the season ahead. Thank you for your prayers and for walking alongside the children of All Saints.

Assist Those Impacted by Recent Flooding

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:35:44 GMT

Let us all continue to unite in prayer over the devastating flooding in central Texas. Lift up those who have died, those still missing, and all their loved ones, especially as recovery efforts move forward. Want to help? Please consider making a financial gift to one of the following trusted organizations:

1. The Episcopal Diocese of West Texas : The Diocese has established a fund to assist those in need. Donate HERE .

2. Kerr County Flood Relief Fund : This is a trusted fund established by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country to support flood relief and rebuild efforts. Your donation will be distributed by the foundation to multiple regional nonprofits working on the ground. Give HERE

3. TEXSAR (Texas Search and Rescue) : TEXSAR is providing vital rescue services and continues to need ongoing support. Click HERE to donate.

4. The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services : The Salvation Army is actively responding to the severe floods in Texas, offering emergency aid, food, beverages, emotional and spiritual care, and critical supplies to survivors and rescue workers across five states. When donating, please be sure to select “Texas Flood (July 2025)” from the dropdown menu under “What would you like your donation to support?” Click HERE to donate.

5. The Episcopal Relief & Development has released a statement on how they are responding to the floods. Donations will help our local partners respond to the emerging needs. Give HERE

Go and Do Likewise

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:00:45 GMT

"Go and Do Likewise"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

July 13, 2025

Jesus’ parable pulls love of God and neighbor out of theory and into action, showing that even a Samaritan, unexpected and despised, can reflect God’s mercy. “It’s not just what’s in your head. It’s what’s in your heart. Go and do likewise.” Three words, pride, silence, unity, can be good or bad depending on how we use them. This church is called beyond loyalty to any priest to be a Christ-centered community, called to “embody Christ’s transforming love… and go and do likewise.”

Preacher Schedule

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 17:38:32 GMT

Service times 8:30am, 11:00am, and 5:30pm

July 27

The Rev. Cameron Nations, Canon for Vocations and Community Engagement

The Rev. Nations brings over a decade of experience in ordained ministry, clergy development, and vocational discernment. In this role, he collaborates closely with the Bishop and the Canon to the Ordinary to identify, form, and nurture new leaders for ministry. He provides formation and theological education for current clergy and lay leaders, enriching the spiritual life and leadership within the diocese. His vision for vocation is deeply rooted in the understanding of the nature of the church found in Paul’s letters, that the church is the body of Christ, and that every member of the body is integral to the whole. He is married to Carly, who is currently pursuing her PhD in English at the University of Texas. They have a three-year-old daughter, Cece, as well as two dogs, Arthur and Rupert, and a cat named Mabel.

August 3

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

Instructor of Preaching

As an Instructor for Preaching, Kelley guides students through the nuances of effectively communicating the gospel across diverse contexts, emphasizing attention to marginalized communities and contemporary societal issues. She also participates in Field Education courses and serves as a faculty mentor in the seminary’s innovative competency-based degree program. She is a preacher, storyteller, and occasional printmaker. She has served as the Canon for Vocations and Community Engagement for the Diocese of Alabama. In this role, Kelley worked with people in formation for ordination and lay leaders, directs the diocesan local ministry school, and identifies and develops continuing education offerings for clergy. She also worked to support our diocesan community ministries, including Sawyerville and racial healing pilgrimages. She served as the Lead Documentarian for the Alabama state committee of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival. Kelley has served as an itinerant preacher, traveling to churches without regular clergy. Kelley has a BA in History and a juris doctorate.

Commissioned and Sent

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 16:42:05 GMT

"Commissioned and Sent"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

July 6, 2025

Jesus set his face toward Jerusalem, marking a turning point that begins the journey to the cross and resurrection. Along the way, he sends 70 followers in pairs to spread the good news, emphasizing prayer, trust in God, singularity of purpose, and peaceable behavior. Though success is uncertain, their joy comes not from results but from their identity as God’s people, just as newly baptized Miley and Hazel are sealed and commissioned to begin that journey of faith.

Reception for Brad & Cindy

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:24:34 GMT

You are invited to join us as we come together to say farewell to the Rev. Brad Landry and the Rev. Cindy Carter. We’ll gather in the Great Hall to celebrate their ministry on Sunday, July 13, following the 10am & 5:30pm services . Come share your thanks, your memories, and your good wishes as we send them off with love. If you’d like, feel free to bring a card or a gift to share your appreciation.

Welcome to The Rev. Kelley Hudlow - Priest in Charge

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:16:55 GMT

Hello folks.

My name is Kelley Hudlow, and I am glad to join All Saints as your Priest-in-Charge. A priest-in-charge leads a church for a defined period, and I will serve in this capacity until the vestry calls an interim rector. As the priest-in-charge, I will support the work of the staff and lay leadership and will preach and lead worship. I began my work in the office on July 15 and my first Sunday will be August 3. I am serving on a part time basis and will typically be in the office on Mondays and Tuesdays.

I am the full time Instructor of Preaching at Bexley Seabury Seminary, which is a low residency Episcopal seminary based in Chicago. I previously served as the Canon for Vocations and Community Engagement for the Diocese of Alabama. I have served churches in transition across Alabama. Before joining the diocese, I practiced law in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham.

In 2024, I completed a Master of Arts in Theopoetics and Writing, focusing on preaching. I will begin a Doctor of Ministry program in Biblical Interpretation and Proclamation at Candler School of Theology at Emory in August 2025. I love science fiction, art, and all things related to space. I live in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham with my spouse, Dr. Shanti Weiland, who teaches English at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. We live with the “Ginger Brothers,” an orange cat named Julien and a corgi named Brother Juniper.

I look forward to getting to know y’all in the coming weeks.

God’s peace,

Kelley+

The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

khudlow@allsaintsbhm.org

Office: 205-922-6014

Monday School

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:00:56 GMT

This group meets on Monday evenings at 6:00pm . Through activities, book discussions, and field trips, they engage in the ongoing work of racial healing and reconciliation. Together, they explore the challenging parts of our nation's and the Episcopal Church’s history, doing so within the safety and support of our community. If you are interested please connect with Memily Colvin: memily.colvin@gmail.com .

SCHEDULE

Monday, July 28

6:00pm supper at Marty’s GM

Please come for fun, reconnecting, and bring friends

Monday, August 4

No Monday School

Saturday, August 9

Jonathan Daniels’ Pilgrimage

We will travel together on the All Saints’ bus

Monday, Aug 11

No Monday School

Monday, Aug 18

No Monday School

Monday Aug, 25

Meet to plan details for hosting the Robeson Project event

Monday, Sept. 1

No Monday School (Labor Day)

Monday, Sept. 8

We will begin our study of "The Souls of Black Folks" by W.E.B. Dubois

Sunday, Sept. 14 4:00pm

We Are Hosting Mr. Register, Professor of History at The University of the South for The ROBESON PROJECT - the slave history of the University and church’s role

Monday, Sept. 15

Monday School returns to usual format and discussion of "The Souls of Black Folks"

Following Jesus and the Daily Paschal Mystery

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 20:28:38 GMT

"Following Jesus and the Daily Paschal Mystery"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

June 29, 2025

Over the past weeks, listening sessions have asked what it means to be an Episcopalian in Alabama, with some saying we are the Episcopal branch of the Jesus movement, a place where questions and doubts are embraced as faith. Faith asks us in return, “What does it mean to follow Jesus?” For some, it means leaving everything; for others, returning home to tell of God’s goodness. No matter how, it always involves the life, death, and resurrection—what Paul calls the Paschal Mystery. As Henri Nouwen said, our deepest vocation is to witness the glimpses of God we have been allowed to catch. So start small, start today, and ask how you have seen God, for this is how we follow Jesus.

Moments of Gratitude

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:54:07 GMT

In this space, you’ll find reflections from parishioners who have taken a moment to say “thank you”, to God, to this church, and to one another. We hope you’re encouraged by their writings, voices or videos, and inspired to reflect on your own blessings, large and small. We invite you to pause, be encouraged, and consider what you’re grateful for today as well.

The McDaniel Family

Ryan and I have been attending All Saints’ since 2021. We were immediately welcomed and shown many groups that we could be a part of to get involved. 20’s Together and All Saints’ has been a constant in our lives ever since. We got married this past summer at All Saints’ surrounded by family and friends and could not have imagined getting married anywhere else. We are grateful for the support we have received both individually and as a couple through our All Saints’ community. The best way we know to show gratitude to the place that has given us so much direction and purpose is by pledging for the upcoming year, so that All Saints’ can continue to provide that same direction and purpose for so many.

Ryan & Anna McDaniel

The Stewart Family

A video message from David and Rebekah Stewart

The Hefner Family

We are so grateful for All Saints, where the warmth of the welcome immediately made us feel at home. Our children have found joy and belonging through the children’s formation, EYC, youth programs, and involvement opportunities, where they are not only learning about faith but also building friendships and spiritual confidence. We love that All Saints is rooted in the heart of Homewood, making it a true part of our daily community, but most of all, we are thankful for the people whose kindness, encouragement, and love make this church our spiritual home.

Thanks,

The Hefner Family

A video message from Ann Clayton Alley

Bob & Pam Phillips

45 years ago Bob and I walked through the doors of All Saints, warmly welcomed by Anne and Sam Sockwell and Sara and Charles Jackson. In so doing, they invited us into this community of faith that has become our home in every sense of the word. This is where we have raised our children, made lifelong friends, learned, prayed and grown in faith.

There are seasons in one’s life which span the decades. In our younger years we were blessed with knowing and learning from church elders and leaders. We were and continue to be inspired and gladdened by the children and youth with their innocence, their energy, their honesty and bravery. Our foray into Christian Formation in Sunday Schools, Cursillo, EfM, Companions in Christ and Prayer Group continue to make us stretch in our faith and our attempts to understand the mystery of God and the Way, as practiced and taught by Jesus. The occasions for fellowship (ECW, St. Martha’s, Prime Time Saints) continue to bind us together as one Body. Opportunities for service through ushering, LEM, Sawyerville, Family Promise, SWEEP (the original IWC) and Meal Team ( and of course there are many more ministries to engage in) have been supremely meaningful. These ministries all need willing hands and hearts. They build relationships and promote healing. It is through these experiences we understand our joyful duty is to be the hands and feet and voice of our God here in the present moment.

All of these building blocks of faith would not have been available if the Holy Spirit had not led us through those doors so many years ago where we were made welcome. We are grateful beyond measure. It is here we have come to know God, our neighbor and ourselves. Maybe it was God’s whisper and plan for us to come here. How happy we are that we listened!

Pam and Bob Phillips

Dottie Bennett

I am really grateful for All Saints because it has given me so many ways to be involved and grow. I love being part of the Atrium and EYC ministries, where Kathleen, Jeannie, Joie, and Grace make church fun and meaningful instead of an obligation, and I’ve made so many friends including those from different schools. Serving as an acolyte and helping with the altar guild has taught me a lot about how our services work and the meaning behind our traditions, while also giving me the chance to keep the church welcoming and beautiful. I especially enjoy working alongside others my age as an acolyte and being a role model for younger kids, since it shows that teens can play an important part in worship. Having these roles makes me feel like I’m truly helping the church, and I’m thankful for the community that encourages and includes us.

Dottie Bennett

Conrad & Susan Ponder

When you find yourself being uprooted from the location you call home you search ways to connect at your new location. Over the course of many moves the answer we’ve found was finding a church, a place to make friends and connect to a worship community. Has this always been easy? Not really. However, the moment we stepped foot into All Saints’ there was something different. We were greeted and made welcomed then invited to participate in the ministries offered. For that we will be forever grateful, as we knew we had found a caring community that has been our spiritual home for the past several years.

We think one of the best ministries in our parish is the Invite, Welcome, & Connect program. It’s that reaching out to others seeking a church home, a place to belong, people like we were, trying to find a community of faith that would love, nurture and help through life challenges and changes. A place we continue to deepen our connection to one another and to God, through Worship, Prayer, Bible study, and Outreach programs so we can we can continue to Embody Christ’s Transforming Love both inside and outside our church doors. For that we say THANKS BE TO GOD.

Susan and Conrad Ponder

The Foley Family

Dale and I are both grateful to be members of such a vibrant and caring Church community. We are so grateful to have such a deep and talented Choir led by Melanie Couch. To us she is much more than a choir director / organist. She clearly has an ear for vocal and musical talent and consistently brings new ideas and musical presentations for all to enjoy. It is a blessing to have such a rich and diverse musical program.

Peace,

Sam and Dale Foley

A video message from Amanda Ennis

From Our EYC

A video message from Anne Michael Drake

The Ponder Family

Hosting the Twenties Together class in our home on Sunday evenings has truly been a blessing for Mona and me. We've had the joy of building meaningful relationships, walking alongside these young adults through their journeys, and helping create a close-knit, faith-filled community.

All Saints’ has provided this class to get connected and put down roots within the church and we are proud of our class for getting involved: four attendees have gotten confirmed, one re-affirmed, and one baptized. We are deeply grateful to be instruments of God’s love during a season of life that can often feel lonely and uncertain. It has been a pleasure getting to know each other and learning, laughing and enjoying fellowship with another generation.

Thank you,
Trent Ponder

The Elwood Family

A video message from Sally Elwood

The Stults Family

The Good Shepherd Choir at All Saints holds a special place in our family's hearts. Even with just one or two songs, their singing brings a beautiful, heartfelt opening to services and allows the children's voices to shine. It's been truly inspiring to see the growing confidence in our daughter (6) and son (4) as they bravely sing in front of the entire congregation. We are so grateful to Ms. Maggie and Ms. Elena for their invaluable investment in the children's choirs at All Saints, encouraging an environment that values the children's contributions and celebrates their participation in worship.

The Stults Family
Mary Katherine, Adam, Annie and Tait

The Robbins Family

Grace, love, peace, and authenticity. These are all words I associate with All Saints. I am profoundly grateful to be a part of a community that is so intentional about sharing a Christ like love with the world. Our members are warm and welcoming in the most authentic way. There is no sense of pretention. We welcome each person as they are, giving grace for imperfections. We seek to form lasting and meaningful bonds that improve the quality of the lives of those who are blessed to call All Saints their church home. This genuine atmosphere is the product of ministries like Invite Welcome Connect that welcome and encourage families to join and be involved in our community. It is the product of beautiful ministries like Atrium and EYC which continue to teach our children how to think and behave more like our loving and compassionate God. It is also a product of our beautiful spaces which provide a sense of peace and reverence necessary for meaningful worship. And we carry this atmosphere outside our walls when we share our abundant love with the community through regular outreach efforts like Avondale Breakfast, Homewood Helps, Angel Tree, and Kairos, but also in times of crisis like Hurricane Helene. For all of the things, and so much more, I am truly filled with gratitude.

Elliot Robbins

Nancy Terrell

I can’t begin to share just one moment of gratitude about All Saints! I feel it every time we sing “Jesus Loves Me” at a baptism, when I see joy on the faces of children coming into church from Atrium, when I watch new acolytes at their first service, when the youth lead our services, or when I hear the laughter and see shared friendships at Prime Time Saints. My 45 years of membership in this church family has sustained and lifted me up every day.

Nancy Terrell

The Ennis Family

I’m deeply grateful for Atrium at All Saints. The love, patience, and dedication shown by the staff and volunteers who guide our children through this beautiful process of spiritual formation is truly a gift. Their work has planted seeds of faith, wonder, and reverence in our kids—seeds that will grow and last a lifetime. I’m especially thankful that our children have had the chance to experience such a rich, thoughtful introduction to the life of the Church.

Atrium has nurtured in them a quiet confidence in their faith and a deep sense of belonging within the Church. It has offered them a peaceful, meaningful space to explore God’s love and grow spiritually at their own pace. This is just one of the many reasons why my family is so grateful to All Saints—and why we proudly support it.

Thanks for all you do,

Matt Ennis

Confident & Grateful: The Spirit of All Saints

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 16:52:16 GMT

Dear All Saints Family,

As many of you have heard, our Rector, Brad and our part-time Associate Priest, Cindy, will both be leaving in July. We wish them well and will celebrate their ministry among us on July 13th immediately following the 10:00 am service.

While this summer is a time of transition, we write with confidence and gratitude, knowing that the spirit of All Saints remains strong. Since 1928, our parish has seen many seasons of change, always sustained by God’s love and our care for each other.

This time will be no different. Our ministries will keep changing lives inside and outside our walls, and our dedicated staff will continue their excellent work without interruption.

We have many fun dates to look forward to! Please join us for Burgers and Bingo on July 17th at 6:00 pm. The annual Blessing of the Backpacks will be on August 3rd and 10th. On September 7th, make sure to attend Game Day, where team All Saints comes together to learn about all of our wonderful ministries and how to become more involved.

We are grateful for the guidance and support of Bishop Curry and her diocesan staff, who are working closely with the vestry to ensure that all aspects of church life and administration are well cared for during this interim period.

Plans are underway to welcome clergy who will preach and celebrate with us on Sundays until an interim rector is in place. Clergy leadership will provide support and guidance to our staff. Bishop Curry has scheduled a meeting on July 14 with vestry to discuss specifics.

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us or any vestry member. We are here for you and will keep you updated as plans develop.

Thank you for your faithfulness, prayers and trust as we walk this journey together. We are excited to see where God is leading us.

In Christ’s love,

Martha Bains, Senior Warden

Alexa McElroy, Junior Warden

More to The Story

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:45:42 GMT

"More to the Story"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

June 15, 2025

It’s hard to say what’s more difficult—preaching on the mystery of the Trinity or telling you that my time as rector of All Saints is coming to a close. If you haven’t yet, I hope you’ll read the letter I wrote last Tuesday. But for now, thank you. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with care and encouragement. No, I won’t be the next Archbishop of Canterbury—the commute would be brutal. In the meantime, as we mark Trinity Sunday, I invite us to reclaim words like “dogma” and “doctrine”—not as closed-mindedness, but as the best language we have for something disturbing and inexhaustible. The Trinity is not a puzzle to solve, but a relationship to experience. God is still speaking, still revealing truth. As Jesus said, “I still have many things to say to you.” And I believe that’s true for me, for you, and for this whole community.

The Spirit Still Speaks

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:43:06 GMT

"The Spirt Still Speaks"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

June 8, 2025

Pentecost isn’t just a birthday party for the Church—it’s a wild, powerful, category-five rush of God’s presence. The Spirit didn’t first arrive at Pentecost; it breathed life into creation, inspired the prophets, and seals us still in baptism. The real miracle isn’t just that people once heard the Gospel in many tongues, but that we still hear it now—in forgiveness, in grace, in the language our hearts understand. As Archbishop Tutu said, “To someone who is starving, the gospel looks a whole lot like bread.” What does the good news look like to you today?

The Rev. Brad Landry is Leaving All Saints

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:32:58 GMT

Dear All Saints parishioners,

There is a saying in the Quaker tradition of discernment: Way will open.

I like that. The earliest followers of Jesus were said to be followers of The Way.

In his book Let Your Life Speak, Parker Palmer recounts a story of a wise old Quaker who said to him, “Parker, I am a birthright Friend (Quaker), and in sixty-plus years of living, way has never opened in front of me. But a lot of way has closed behind me, and that’s had the same guiding effect.”

My friends, for several months throughout this Mutual Ministry Review, I have been praying and discerning how best to love and serve All Saints. In my heart, and through the caring counsel of wise mentors, I sense that way is closing on my call as rector of All Saints.

This has been terribly difficult to discern, because I love you all dearly. I have felt your love, support, and prayers. I am proud of much of what we have accomplished and experienced together over the past three and a half years. But now, paradoxically, faithfulness to that call looks like letting go.

My last day at All Saints will be Sunday, July 13th . I hope to be able to share with you in the coming weeks what is emerging as the next step in my discernment and service to the Church. Martha and Alexa, our Senior and Junior Wardens, have been in communication with Bishop Curry, and will be able to share plans for the interim with the parish in the coming weeks.

Some may speculate as to why I am leaving. While such speculation would be understandable, I want to be clear that I came to this decision after much prayer, deliberation, and guidance from wise mentors. No one has asked me to leave.

Even as my call to serve as your rector comes to a close, my love, prayers, and care for you will continue. I am grateful beyond measure for the love you have shown me and my family.

Grace & peace,

The Rev. Bradley J. Landry

The Rev. Cindy Carter is Re-Retiring!

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 16:51:28 GMT

Dear friends,

When I came out of retirement to take a part-time position at All Saints as Priest Associate, I committed to myself that I would serve two years and then re-evaluate my future after that. This September will be two years since I arrived here, so a month or so ago I began talking with my daughter and two trusted friends to help me discern what that future might be. As those discussions proceeded, I added discussions with a priest friend and my bishop in the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast.

I have come to the decision that it is time for me to leave my position here and to return to retirement. I want you to know that Brad and I have come to our decisions independently, and we were both surprised when we shared them in a meeting a week or so ago.

My last Sunday at All Saints will be July 13 ^th . I have valued my time here in so many ways, making new friends and renewing relationships from my time here as a lay member in the 1990s. You will always remain in my heart and in my prayers.

Please keep me in your prayers I re-adjust to my life in retirement. I am looking forward to greater flexibility and more time to be with friends and family (interestingly my brother’s last Sunday as a pastor in Lynn Haven will be July 20 ^th ), as well as to new adventures and opportunities for service.

In Christ’s Love,

Cindy+

VBS Volunteers Needed!

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 01:42:15 GMT

Want to help out for VBS? Do you need service hours? It takes a village to go to Galilee and we need your help creating everything! Volunteers can be rising 7th graders through any age. Please contact Jeannie Feldman ( jeanniefeldman@att.net ) or Kathleen Busbee ( kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org ) if you can help or just show up below! Childcare available for children 6 years and under for those volunteers needing that service.

SET UP

Friday, June 20, 3:00pm-5:00pm
Saturday, June 21, 10:00am-12:00pm

BREAK DOWN

Wednesday, June 25, 12:00pm-2:00pm

Pentecost is June 8

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 22:59:55 GMT

Sunday, June 9, is Pentecost! We will be taking a large group picture of parishioners outside after each morning service. Be sure to wear your red (we wear red to remind us of the fire of the Spirit).

The Sunday that is seven weeks (50 days) after Easter Day is the Feast of Pentecost. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem celebrating the Feast of Weeks , as described in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2:1–31 ). 40 days after the resurrection (Easter) Jesus ascends into heaven (Ascension Day). But before he ascends, Jesus promises that he will not leave us “comfortless”, but will send the Holy Spirit to strengthen and to guide us, to guide the church. Ten days later, on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on the people gathered.

Jesus Prays

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 22:10:32 GMT

"Jesus Prays"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

June 1, 2025

Like me, you probably read or heard many words of sympathy and

remembrance following the death of Pope Francis – words from politicians

and government officials, monarchs, religious leaders, celebrities, and

everyday, ordinary people around the world.

But one statement I saw began in a deeply personal way. “Pope

Francis changed my life.” These words came from John Boehner, the

former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Some of you may know about the experience on which Speaker Boehner’s

statement was based.

I first learned about this experience several years ago when I listened to the

Audible version of the book, On the House , read by Speaker Boehner. I had

Heard a reporter I respect say that this book, subtitled A Washington

Memoir ; was the funniest political book that she’d ever read. And, it is

indeed a very funny book. I’m sure my neighbors wondered why I was

laughing out loud as I took my daily walks with my airpods in my ears. If

you’ve read it, you know what I mean. If you think you might be interested

in reading it, one warning – the language is, shall we say, salty.

While Mr. Boehner and I may not agree on many things, as I read the book I discovered many ways in which we are more alike than I would have expected.

For example, I had not known that the former speaker is a person of faith. A devout Roman Catholic. In On the House , he described a day on which he said he had never seen Congress more happy. It was the day that Pope Francis, at Speaker Boehner’s invitation, addressed a joint session of Congress.

In a moment when the Speaker found himself alone with the Pope, Francis embraced him and said, “Mr. Speaker, pray for me.” Boehner’s response was, “Holy Father, who am I to pray for you?” But, he added that he prayed for the Holy Father then and still does.

That is the moment that Speaker Boehner said changed his life.

Pray for me. Such important words in a life of faith.

This morning we have heard about one of Jesus’ prayers.

This prayer, recorded in the seventeenth chapter of the Gospel of John, is the final scene in Jesus’ farewell meal with his disciples, just before his arrest.

It is the prayer of one on the verge of willingly laying down his life and in that willing death completing the work that the Father had given him to do. It is the prayer of one who knows he has come from glory and is totally confident of returning to that glory.

Jesus is speaking to God, the Father, on the eve of his death. And, at such an intense moment as this, with the agony of the cross looming right in front of him, what is of utmost concern to Jesus? What is he speaking with the Father about in his prayer?

As we heard in the reading from John’s Gospel, Jesus was praying for those the Father had given him. Praying that the Father would protect them as they continued on in the world after Jesus and ascended to the Father.

At that moment, Jesus is concerned about his followers, the community of believers. And, it is on behalf of that community Jesus prayed that as he faced death.

He prayed for those who were his followers that night in Jerusalem; he prayed for those who would become his followers in other places following his death, resurrection, and ascension; he prayed for us.

Jesus entrusted the hope for the future of all his followers to God.

It’s amazing, isn’t it? Literally, the last thing John’s Gospel tells us that Jesus did before he was betrayed and arrested was to pray for his followers.

He didn’t hurriedly give his disciples a bunch of last minute instructions; just to be sure that they knew exactly what to do in his absence. No check list of items to insure church unity or to tell his followers exactly how to carry out their mission and ministry. No rules for how to remain faithful in the world, where evil is indeed a reality.

No, instead, his last words before his betrayal and arrest were directed, not to the disciples – but to the Father.

In that moment, Jesus turned the future of his followers over to God. Over to a God who Jesus knew could be trusted with that future, because of God’s great love for these followers. He entrusted our future to the hands of God – this one whose hands are absolutely sure, absolutely good, and absolutely full of love.

Jesus’ prayer modeled how we are to understand and receive our identity. Our life as individual followers of Jesus and as the faith community, the church, depends completely on God’s care; our future rests in God’s hands. Our identity is in God alone.

Knowing that God’s grace, presence, and love surround us and uphold us surely gives us confidence that we – as individuals and as the faith community - can face challenges and opportunities with boldness and courage, with patience and faith.

You see Jesus’ intercession for us did not end with that prayer following his farewell meal with his disciples in Jerusalem so many years ago.

In his Letter to the Romans, Paul assured us that it is “Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us.” And, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews described Jesus as an eternal priest - one who lives forever to make intercession on our behalf.

This morning, can we get our minds around the fact that Jesus - this one who is the only Son, so close to the Father’s heart; this one who loves us so much - prays for us? He prayed for his followers just before his own death and he continues to intercede for us. He has entrusted us to God’s trustworthy care and our future is in those sure, good, loving hands.

Knowing that people pray for me is incredibly sustaining for me. Having people ask me to pray for them builds bonds between us that perhaps never existed before. Pope Francis’ request for Speaker Boehner to pray for him changed his life.

But, frankly, when I really think about the fact that Jesus- this one who loves me so much, more than I can even imagine - prays for me and for the church, when I really try to take that into my head and my heart, it absolutely takes my breath away.

How might our definition of who we are as followers of Jesus and who we are as a faith community change,

how might our understanding of the idea of church unity change,

how might our faithfulness in a world where evil is a reality change,

how might our life together, ur mission and ministry, change–

if we took as our beginning point this statement -

We are a community for whom Jesus prays. We are a community for whom Jesus prays..

For indeed, we are that community.

And, my friends, that changes everything. AMEN.

Screen on the Green June 19

Thu, 29 May 2025 18:26:19 GMT

All Saints will have its very first "Screen on the Green" this year, and you're invited to the debut on Thursday, June 19, beginning at 7:00pm! We will be watching Toy Story! We’re setting up the big screen on the Terrell Commons grass area and providing popcorn for you! Just bring your chair, and whatever else makes your movie night the way you like it. It’s the perfect way to kick off summer!

If there is rain, we will move inside to the Great Hall.

Membership Update

Thu, 29 May 2025 16:44:38 GMT

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE IN PROGRESS: We need your help in updating our parish membership records! We realize that life brings changes, so we’ve made the process of providing updates and transitions for you and your family members a simple one. All you have to do is click, complete, and submit the form. That’s it! Please contact Summer Stough for more information at office@allsaintsbhm.org . Thank you for your participation and support!

(If you’ve already completed the process recently through a phone call or submitted a hard copy form, then you do not need to do it again)

How Is Your Vision?

Wed, 28 May 2025 22:18:50 GMT

"How Is Your Vision?"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

May 25, 2025

“Vision” in scripture comes in many forms—dreams, trances, revelations—and the Greek language gives each one a distinct meaning. The speaker shares how their love of Greek began in college and now deepens weekly through study. Visions appear often in Acts—from Peter’s trance on a rooftop to Paul’s nighttime vision of a man from Macedonia, which leads instead to Lydia, a wise woman by a river. Like Paul's experience, our own vision often sharpens over time. At All Saints, this means living into the vision of “embodying Christ’s transforming love”—moving beyond the city gate to the river, and ultimately toward the New Jerusalem, where one day we will see God face to face and be healed.

Summer Fellowship with the Saints

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:59:28 GMT

This summer at All Saints, we’re creating space and time to slow down, share memories together, and enjoy one another’s company. Whether it’s after worship services, during special midweek gatherings, or through shared stories and photos, there are plenty of chances to connect. Come be part of the fun and fellowship!

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

Pentecost Sunday! The fellowship time after both morning and evening worship will be extra-special on June 8, as we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost . We will gather to take our annual parish photo and then enjoy cake and ice cream in the Great Hall.

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

Screen on the Green: Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and come watch “Toy Story” on Terrell Commons at 7:00pm on Thursday, June 19. There will be popcorn, cold drinks, and fun for all ages. If the weather doesn’t cooperate with an outdoor showing, we will move into the Great Hall.

JUNE 22-25

Vacation Bible School is June 22–25,! Join us as we travel back to ancient Israel to learn about Jesus! Register NOW !

JUNE & JULY

Lemonade and Cookies: On Sundays in June and July, there will be lemonade and cookies after morning worship – out front on the patio, if weather permits, or in the Cloister. There will also be fellowship after Sunday evening worship on June 1 and on a Sunday in early July, volunteers needed.

It will also be "Name Tag Sunday" every Sunday in June and July - a great opportunity to get to know fellow parishioners.

VACATION PHOTOS

Share your summer vacation and fun photos – whether it’s a stay-cation at home or a trip to faraway places. We’d love to see lots of All Saints smiling faces; there will be a board in the Cloister where you can post your photos. Email them to media@allsaintsbhm.org .

Ascension Day Eucharist May 29

Tue, 27 May 2025 14:35:38 GMT

Join us this Thursday, May 29 at 12pm for an Ascension Day Eucharist in our Chapel. This service marks the conclusion of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances. It is the final elevation of his human nature to divine glory and the near presence of God. The Ascension is affirmed by the Nicene and Apostles' Creeds. The Ascension is celebrated on Ascension Day, the Thursday that is the fortieth day of the Easter season. It is a principal feast of the church year in the Episcopal Church (From the Episcopal Dictionary of the Church).

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Father's Day Choir June 15

Wed, 21 May 2025 16:43:02 GMT

All fathers and sons are welcome to sing in the annual Father's Day Choir on Sunday, June 15th for the 10:00am service . Come at 9:15am to the Adult Choir Room for a brief rehearsal. We'll prepare a simple, well-known hymn for the offertory anthem. All ages are welcome!

Come sing with your own father or son or father-figure. You are also invited to sing in memory of or thanksgiving for this person even if they are only with you in spirit on this day. The choir room is located on the third floor upstairs from the sacristy at the end of the cloister (brick hallway).

If you have any questions, connect with Melanie Couch, mcouch@allsaintsbhm.org .

Lines

Wed, 21 May 2025 02:16:44 GMT

"Lines"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

May 18, 2025

I first encountered this little poem more years ago than I’d like to say in a course titled “The Social Psychology of Organizing.” That course would go on to change the direction of my studies, my career, and me; and I have always thought there is a great deal of wisdom in this little poem. I even used to keep a copy of it taped above my desk, but who knew that poem would end up in a sermon. I certainly didn’t.

I’ve thought a whole lot about that poem, as I’ve considered today’s reading from the Acts of the Apostles.

To set the context for today – in last week’s reading from Acts, we left Peter, in Joppa (a coastal town, present day Tel Aviv), staying “with a certain Simon, a tanner.” He had come to Joppa at the request of the Christian community there when Dorcas, a beloved disciple in that community, became ill and died. But when Peter prayed next to her body and called her name, she returned alive to the community that loved her so much.

So, how how did we get from a joyful, pleasant stay in Joppa to where we are in the story today?

Today, it sounds like Peter, one of Jesus’ closest friends, had been called on the carpet by the Jews who made up the Christian community in Jerusalem.

Called to account because they had heard that he was in table fellowship with Gentiles. And, this was a serious problem in the minds of the Jerusalem church. Unthinkable! Unimaginable!

Now Peter had to explain himself. And, explain himself he did.

First, he told these Jewish Christians about a vision he had when he was staying with Simon, the tanner, in Joppa.

One day at noon when it was about time for lunch and Peter was hungry, he had gone up to the roof to pray while we waited for lunch to be prepared. As he prayed, he saw a large sheet coming down from heaven, and the sheet was filled with all kinds of animals and birds. All were part of God’s creation but some had been declared in Jewish law as unclean – that is, not to be used for food.

With the sheet full of animals there in front of the hungry Peter, a voice told him to kill and eat what was there. But, Peter being a good observant Jew, said, “no.” Absolutely no, in no uncertain terms.

Three times the sheet filled with all kinds of animals came down and he was told to kill and eat, and three times he said, “no.” But each time Peter said “no,” the voice responded that what God had pronounced clean, Peter had no right to call profane or unclean.

And, just as the sheet in Peter’s vision was pulled back up into heaven for the third time…

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

Three men arrived from Caesarea, just up the coast, and said they had come to get Peter. They had been sent by Cornelius, a Roman centurion. An officer who commanded 100 soldiers in the Roman Army.

Now, Cornelius was a good man; he feared God and gave alms and prayed constantly. Cornelius was a good man, but Cornelius was a Gentile.

Peter, led by the Holy Spirit, went with these men who were at his door. He went to Cornelius’ home in Caesarea.

As he spoke with Cornelius and the people in his household, Peter could see that the Holy Spirit had come upon these Gentiles just as the Holy Spirit had come upon Peter and the other Jewish believers on the Day of Pentecost.

The Holy Spirit at work, unleashed in the world, as uncontrollable as a strong wind and a raging fire.

That was Peter’s defense. His account to these Jewish Christians who had called him on the carpet.

And, as we heard in today’s reading from Acts -

When they heard this, they were silenced. And they praised God, saying, “Then God has given even to the Gentiles the repentance that leads to life.”

An unexpected outpouring of God’s grace and love, providing evidence that the inclusion of Gentiles in the Christian community was indeed God’s will.

Now, Peter and Cornelius may have been principal human characters in this story, but I believe the Holy Spirit was the main character. It was the Holy Spirit who was instigator of the action, the one who had erased what had seemed like an indelible line between Jew and Gentile.

And, remember that line I mentioned earlier which told us where Peter was staying when he had the vision he described. The house of a certain Simon, a tanner.

Simon’s trade would have caused him to carry the odor and blood of animals and made him “unclean” according to some Jewish laws. Perhaps this seemingly throwaway line was Luke’s hint to his readers and to us that the Holy Spirit was already at work in Peter, even before the pivotal vision occurred.

Our choicest plans

have fallen through,

our airiest castles

tumbled over,

because of lines

we neatly drew

and later neatly

stumbled over.

There are still so many lines in the church, aren’t there?

Churches don’t only stumble, at times they actively tear themselves apart over lines that have been drawn.

Who can sit at Christ’s table together, who has the correct interpretation of scripture, who “fits” in our congregation, who is inside the line and who is outside the line.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes when I see these lines and all the separation, division, pain, and destruction they can cause, it can be downright frustrating. It can even make me angry.

But, then in my clearer moments, I realize that I, too, am guilty of line drawing. Much of the time I am simply blind to the lines I draw, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there.

So, what are we to do and think about all these lines?

Well, I think we can be certain that God does have choice plans and airy castles in mind for us. God has a dream for the world that God has created and a dream for the church, the Body of Christ in the world.

I think we can also be certain that God doesn’t care much for lines. I don’t think God is a line-drawer. You see the lines we draw – lines of race, sexual orientation, right and left, liberal and conservative, denomination or faith tradition, gender, class, however you want to draw them, those lines can prevent the plans and castles that God has in mind for us from coming to fruition or at a minimum those lines can definitely slow them down. Those lines can trip us up and cause a whole lot of stumbling.

But, thanks be to God – I believe we can also be certain that the Holy Spirit is still at work. Still preparing the Peters and Corneliuses among us. Still speaking and leading. Still instigating the action that will erase those lines that seem so firmly in place. The Spirit is still working out God’s will, God’s plan, God’s dream for us.

As a Gentile, I would have been on the side of the line there with Cornelius two thousand years ago. The side of the line where Jews thought God’s love and mercy could not gush forth in a new, abundant outpouring. But, that line was erased.

As a woman, only fifty or so years ago, I would have been on the side of the line where no matter how strongly I believed I was being called by God to ordained ministry, God’s will for me would have not been possible in the Episcopal Church. But, that line was erased.

I believe the Holy Spirit, the gift of the resurrected Jesus, continues to lead us, to guide us, and at times, squarely to kick us in the seat of the pants to help us get past our stubborn desire to keep the lines we’ve drawn right where they are.

Loving and active God, may we be open to the winds of your Spirit. May we know that you have a dream for us, a choice plan, an airy castle, better things can we can imagine or pray for. And, as we seek to follow you toward that dream, may we not stumble over the lines we ourselves have drawn.

Alleluia! Christ is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia!

We Are Hiring: Preschool Director

Tue, 20 May 2025 21:47:14 GMT

All Saints Episcopal Church is seeking a dedicated, experienced Preschool Director to lead our vibrant weekday preschool. This leadership role oversees daily operations, staff, curriculum, budgets, and compliance—while building a warm, inclusive community for children and families.

The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood education, has strong organizational and communication skills, and values collaboration within a faith-based setting.

Bachelor’s required; Master’s preferred
Experience in education and leadership a must
Full-time, year-round position

Apply by sending resume and cover letter to: media@allsaintsbhm.org

Lemonade Sundays Start June 1

Fri, 16 May 2025 02:30:03 GMT

Beginning Sunday, June 1 , join us for lemonade and cookies after the 10:00am service. It is a wonderful fellowship opportunity. Please consider signing up (above) to provide cookies and serve lemonade . You can serve as a family or get a fun group of friends together to serve. The lemonade and cups will be provided by All Saints and located in the kitchen with detailed instructions. We ask that you provide the sweet treats. Plan on 8 dozen. Please have everything set up in front of the church by the conclusion of the service.

This will be for the months of June and July, with the exception of June 8 which is Pentecost.

Sawyerville Camp Dinner June 4

Thu, 15 May 2025 02:21:56 GMT

Summer is almost here, which means Sawyerville Day Camp will begin in just a few weeks! All Saints has a long and faithful history with this ministry. Many of us have participated in various ways over the years and witnessed lives being changed.

We will be providing a meal for 100 youth and adult staff on Wednesday, June 4 . Most of the meals will be catered from a local restaurant in Greensboro, and then we’ll add homemade cookies and brownies from parishioners.

Please visit THIS FORM to sign up & assist us in one of three ways:

1. Make a financial contribution to help cover the cost of the dinner.

2. Provide baked cookies and/or brownies.

3. Volunteer to help serve the meal in Greensboro. (Once you sign up, we’ll follow up with details.)

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Cindy Carter, ccarter@allsaintsbhm.org

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Bishop Search Listening Sessions

Wed, 07 May 2025 20:54:24 GMT

BISHOP SEARCH LISTENING SESSIONS

The Search Committee invites you to attend a Listening Session this summer! The purpose of these sessions is simple but deeply important to listen . Your input will help create a Diocesan Profile—an honest, prayerful portrait of who we are, where we’ve been, and who we are called to become. That profile will then be shared with prospective candidates for bishop to help them discern whether they are called to join us in this next chapter of ministry.

Questions to Consider:

What makes you proud of your church, the diocese, or our mission?
What does success look like in the next decade?
What strengths are most important for our next bishop—and why?
What are your hopes and expectations for our next bishop?
What does it mean to be an Episcopalian in Alabama?
What are our most important missions?

Questions or Concerns? albishopsearch@gmail.com

BISHOP SEARCH LISTENING SESSIONS

Questions to Consider:

What makes you proud of your church, the diocese, or our mission?
What does success look like in the next decade?
What strengths are most important for our next bishop—and why?
What are your hopes and expectations for our next bishop?
What does it mean to be an Episcopalian in Alabama?
What are our most important missions?

LISTENING SESSION SCHEDULE

Sun, June 1 • 2:00–3:30 PM
St. Stephen’s, Vestavia
3775 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35223
Wed, June 4 • 5:30–7:00 PM
Trinity, Florence
410 North Pine Street, Florence, AL 35630
Sat, June 7 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
St. Mark’s, Birmingham
228 Dennison Ave SW, Birmingham, AL 35211
Sun, June 8 • 3:00–4:30 PM
St. Michael & All Angels, Anniston
1000 West 18th Street, Anniston, AL
Wed, June 11 • 5:30–7:00 PM
St. John’s, Montgomery
113 Madison Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104
Sun, June 15 • 2:00–3:30 PM
Christ Church, Tuscaloosa
605 Lurleen B Wallace N Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Sat, June 21 • 1:00–2:30 PM
Nativity, Huntsville
208 Eustis Ave SE, Huntsville, AL 35801
Thurs, June 26 • 7:00–8:30 PM
Zoom session
bit.ly/DioAlaListeningSession
Thurs, June 26 • 7:00–8:30 PM
St. Luke’s, Birmingham
3736 Montrose Road, Mountain Brook, AL 35213
For clergy and seminarians. Zoom link will be available.
Sat, June 28 • 1:00–2:30 PM
Holy Trinity, Auburn
100 Church Drive, Auburn, AL 36830
Sat, June 28 • 2:00–3:30 PM
Trinity Commons, Birmingham
1024 12th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205
Fri, July 11 • 9:45–11:30 AM
Camp McDowell, Nauvoo
105 Delong Rd, Nauvoo, AL 35578
For youth & young adults at Camp McDowell Senior Session.

Questions or Concerns?
�� Email: albishopsearch@gmail.com
�� Zoom: bit.ly/DioAlaListeningSession

Baby Mose Has Arrived!

Wed, 07 May 2025 15:26:06 GMT

With great joy, we share news that baby Mose was born May 6 to Associate Rector, The Rev. Ranie Neislar and her husband, The Rev. Worth Stuart. Both baby and parents are doing well. Ranie and Worth are thrilled to welcome a new addition to their family and can’t wait to introduce him to the All Saints’ community in the near future!

O God, you have taught us through your blessed Son that whoever receives a little child in the name of Christ receives Christ himself: We give thanks for the blessing you have bestowed upon this family in giving them a child. Confirm their joy by a lively sense of your presence with them, and give them calm strength and patient wisdom as they seek to bring this child to love all that is true and noble, just and pure, lovable and gracious, excellent and admirable, following the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Ongoing Work of Love

Tue, 06 May 2025 18:28:35 GMT

"The Ongoing Work of Love"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

May 4, 2025

We have been invited, privileged, to be part of an ongoing work — to be lovers of people, fishers of men, and part of reconciling God to God’s people. It’s about being part of something bigger, loving outside yourself, and continuing the hard work of tending to one another. Please continue to be part of loving our children and loving one another.

Youth Sunday Sermons

Tue, 06 May 2025 18:23:32 GMT

Youth Sunday Sermons

April 27, 2025

These are the four sermons given by our youth at the 8:30am and 11:00am services. In order they are: Hattie Landry & Kylie Peerson (8:30am) and then

Sadie Busbee & Ada McElroy (11:00am).

Confirmation Sunday May 11

Tue, 06 May 2025 02:08:30 GMT

Join us for Confirmation Sunday, May 11! This special service welcomes The Rt. Rev. Glenda S. Curry, Bishop of the Diocese of Alabama!

*ATTENTION YOUTH: please arrive by 7:50am for time with the Bishop before the service! Youth will be confirmed at the 8:30am service, adults at the 11:00am service and there is a reception in the Great Hall from 10-10:30am.

In Confirmation, a baptized Christian makes "a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop." (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 857)

One can be confirmed whenever he or she is ready to accept the promises made on their behalf at their baptism. This usually happens during the teen years, but adults of any age may be confirmed in the church. One must be baptised before being confirmed.

Confirmation expresses not only a desire to live as an adult Christian, it also indicates a desire to do so in the Episcopal Church and the world-wide Anglican Communion.

The sacrament of Confirmation is something that only a bishop can perform, so our confirmations are scheduled around the times when the bishop will visit our parish. Typically, confirmation follows a period of preparation, examination, and exploration into all aspects of the Christian life. This period of time may last several months.

Reception into the Episcopal Church
While it is not a sacrament of the Church, the rite of reception is available for those who have been baptized and confirmed by a bishop in another Christian church (Roman Catholic, Lutheran, or Eastern Orthodox for example), but who wish to formally recognize their new membership in the Episcopal Church.

Preschool Graduation May 14

Mon, 05 May 2025 17:57:34 GMT

Our Preschool graduation is Wednesday, May 14 at 11:30am . If you know someone who can’t attend, we’ll be live streaming it HERE . Feel free to share!

This stream is over. WATCH RECORDING

Join Our Pastoral Care Team!

Mon, 05 May 2025 17:35:08 GMT

Want to help others in simple, meaningful ways? Join our Pastoral Care Team! This ministry provides support to individuals or families in times of need due to health challenges. We use a team approach so volunteers can do what they enjoy doing when they are able. You can help however you’re able, whether that’s visiting, giving rides, babysitting, or making a meal.

If you are interested, connect with Memily Colvin, memily.colvin@gmail.com , Lisa Hallman, hallman.lisaw@gmail.com , or the Rev. Brad Landry, blandry@allsaintsbhm.org .

Vestry Spotlight

Sun, 04 May 2025 19:36:41 GMT

At All Saints, our Vestry plays a vital role in guiding and supporting the life of our parish. Made up of 15 dedicated members, with one-third elected each year at our fall parish meeting, the Vestry helps shape the future of our church. To help you get to know the faces behind the decisions, we're offering a Vestry spotlight series.

First up is our Senior Warden, Martha Bains . A member of All Saints for about 15 years, Martha is now in her third year on the Vestry. “One of my favorite things about All Saints right now is that in this position I get to work closely, not just with our amazing vestry, but also with our wonderful church staff and clergy,” she says.

Two traditions close to her heart are the way so many come together on Holy Saturday morning and December 23rd to prepare our church for Easter and Christmas—moments that reflect the spirit of community she loves most.

New Nursery Director

Thu, 01 May 2025 21:01:01 GMT

We’re excited to welcome our new Nursery Director, Jenni Koehler , who has been part of the All Saints community since 2016. Join us in congratulating her on her new role!

From Jenni:

I have been a part of the All Saints community since 2016, working primarily in the nursery and supporting our youngest parishioners. Working closely with children inspired me to learn more about how to best support them, and I earned my PhD in child development (with a special focus on play behaviors!) from UAB in 2023. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing space where children can grow through play. I am also the mother of two (soon to be three!) wonderful children: Vance (5yo) and Nora(3yo) with Baby Sister expected to join us in July. I am so excited to be stepping into this role to continue to serve in such a wonderful and welcoming community and getting the opportunity to inspire playfulness in your children.

Summer Sunday Worship Begins May 25

Thu, 01 May 2025 15:23:46 GMT

Beginning Sunday, May 25, All Saints will have two Sunday worship services at 10:00am (+ Live Stream ) and then 5:30pm! Sunday, August 3 , we will get back to three services as normal, 8:30am, 11:00am and 5:30pm.

What else is happening?

A light breakfast will be served from 8:45am - 9:45am.
The nursery will be available during the morning service for children six weeks old to six years old. Of note, six weeks to two years old parents will drop-off AND pick-up. Three years - six year olds will be escorted by staff into the 10:00am service for the Eucharist (Communion).

If you are unable to attend our services, find our live stream archives HERE , and our sermons HERE .

Help Us Show All Saints Love for We Love Homewood Day

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:04:59 GMT

You are invited to help show our community some All Saints Love on We Love Homewood Day , Saturday, May 3rd!

Run with the Saints – Participate in the We Love Homewood 5k and wear your All Saints T-Shirt or hat or be on the course and encourage your fellow parishioners with a sign or a shout out. REGISTER TO RACE HERE

Spin the Wheel for All Saints – SIGN UP HERE for a one (1) hour slot to greet our neighbors at the All Saints tent in Central Park from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm . There will be fun for all! All Saints Episcopal Church: We Love Homewood Day All Saints Episcopal Church Tent at Homewood Central Park

Bring Your Own Basket – Bring your family, friends, and a picnic basket to watch the We Love Homewood Day Parade on Terrell Commons at 6:00 pm .

This is a great way to reach out to our community to show the spirit we are blessed to have here at All Saints. If you have questions, please contact Melinda Sellers ( msellers@burr.com ) or Cindy Carter ( ccarter@allsaintsbhm.org )

Join us for our "Soup for the Soul" Lent series! You can get involved three different ways , cook soup, eat soup, or nourish your soul with a good meal followed by evening prayer in the Nave that will be preacher led. Cooking or eating is part of a fundraiser that will help provide funding for our Outreach Programs. Details below.

Lent begins this year with Ash Wednesday, February 14 which includes a 12:00pm and 6:00pm ( +Live Stream ) service, and Wednesday, February 21 we will have our Lenten Contemplative Service . After that, we will offer dinner and prayer every Wednesday evening from February 21 - March 20. Details below.

Easter Sunday Sermon: What We Bring to the Tomb

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:08:21 GMT

"What We Bring to the Tomb"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

April 20, 2025

Whatever it is that you have brought with you today to church—car keys, coffee, a child, grief, expectations, or precious hopes—the tomb is a place to be unburdened by the weight of expectation, to have transformed that which is precious to you, and to find that which has been lost. Just as these women carried with them costly, precious spices to the tomb, surely they brought also with them their grief and their tears, their shattered hopes of all they had expected Jesus to be—then they did remember his words.

If the Dead Don't Stay Dead, What Can You Rely On

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:07:31 GMT

"If the Dead Don't Stay Dead, What Can You Rely On"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

April 19, 2025

The unexpected joy of a pregnancy announcement mirrored the disbelief of the apostles, who, like the women at the tomb, found resurrection news too impossible to accept—because “if the dead don’t stay dead, what can you rely on?” Yet through memory of Jesus’ words and presence, they moved from doubt to belief, inspired to hope and trust that it was true.

Good Friday Sermon: Down on the Ground

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:06:29 GMT

"Down on the Ground"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

April 18, 2025

Down on the ground is where we do our best work, with preschoolers, in the garden, at burials, washing feet, kneeling to hear a child's question, and in prayer for those in power and those who are suffering. I believe Jesus does his best work down on the ground, and I believe that we can too.

Maundy Thursday Sermon: Learning to Love Like Jesus

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:05:16 GMT

"Learning to Love Like Jesus"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

April 17, 2025

Going to seminary was challenging and distressing, especially as some things I thought I absolutely knew to be true were shattered. I learned that Jesus’ command to “love one another” in John’s Gospel was not a universal call, but a specific directive to the Christian community—showing love as he did, even through humble service, disagreement, and forgiveness.

Jennifer Cupps: Twenty-Five Years of Lifting Little Ones

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 01:06:53 GMT

For over two decades, Jennifer Cupps has been a steady, loving presence in the lives of the youngest members of All Saints. She began in 2000 as a toddler teacher, then spent 18 years guiding the 3-year-olds, and most recently, she has served faithfully as our Nursery Director.

Jennifer has lifted little ones in every way—physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and helped plant seeds of faith and kindness in each child who passed through our doors. Her impact has reached far beyond the nursery, touching the lives of families, coworkers, and our entire parish.

In Jennifer’s own words:

"Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the All Saints family for so long. All Saints and those red doors will always have a special place in my heart, along with every one of my students."

Jennifer has accepted a new role as Program Director with the Genomic Medicine Conference Center at UAB, and is leaving her current role as Nursery Director at the end of this month. We are deeply grateful for the love and care Jennifer has poured into our children and community, touching the hearts of so many, not just the little ones.

Creation Care Sunday May 4

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 20:20:08 GMT

May 4 is Creation Sunday here at All Saints! Be sure to walk or bike to church, and we will have a "Blessing of Bikes!" As part of this day we also plan to have plantable seed bookmarks available, and a biodegradable paper bookmark with seeds embedded in it, to be given out at both morning services.

The Paschal Triduum: A Journey Through Three Sacred Days

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 19:49:45 GMT

Paschal Triduum - What could those words mean? You may know that in the atrium, we often use challenging words with even the youngest children—words like liturgical, Cenacle, Jerusalem, prophecy, and Epiclesis. We also ask the children what they heard… a lot. So I challenge you—what comes to mind when you see the words Paschal Triduum? If you guessed something about that big Easter/Baptismal candle and the number three, you’re right on track. Simply put, the Paschal Triduum is the term for the last three days and services before the celebration of Easter.

The three days of the Paschal Triduum signify our beliefs as Christians. On Maundy Thursday , Jesus served his disciples by washing their feet and celebrating the Last Supper. He gave them new words: “Take, eat; this is my Body… Drink this, all of you; this is my Blood of the new Covenant.” These words are repeated by priests all over the world to remind us of the first Eucharist. The altar is stripped, preparing us for the solemnity of the day to come.

On Good Friday , the Passion and Death of Christ are read from the Gospel of John. These images are also revealed to us whenever we see stained glass windows or hear the Stations of the Cross.

The Easter Vigil on Saturday evening is an especially spectacular celebration. Outside our church, we bless and light a new Paschal Candle because Jesus’ light has returned. We enter the darkened nave, bringing the LIGHT OF CHRIST with us because JESUS IS RISEN! There are baptisms and bells, and that glorious light is everywhere! We even sing and shout that word (the one that begins with “A”) we’ve put away for so long.

Yes, Jesus died. But did he stay dead? No—He is Risen! I encourage you to bring your family to the Paschal Triduum services this year. Feel free to bring children in their pajamas if you’d like. Join us as we conclude our Lenten journey and celebrate the JOY of EASTER and CHRIST'S RISEN LIGHT!

Maundy Thursday (April 17th): 6:30 p.m.

Good Friday (April 18th): 12:00 noon

*Easter Vigil (April 19th): 7:15 p.m. Easter Vigil

*Please bring a bell to ring as we celebrate the Risen Christ!

Awaiting the Celebration with you,

Jeannie Feldman

All Saints Children’s Formation

Lessons & Carols of Creation

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 19:59:47 GMT

Experience *Lessons and Carols of Creation*, a special service that invites you into the wonder of the Genesis story through scripture and song. Presented by the Good Shepherd, Children’s, and Youth Choirs, this unique worship event will be held Wednesday, April 30 at 6:00pm and Sunday, May 4 at 8:30am.

If you have any questions, please email our Director of Youth and Children’s Music Programs, Maggie Gill, mgill@allsaintsbhm.org

Bethany

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 17:38:03 GMT

"Bethany"

Sermon by The Rev. Derrick Hill

April 6, 2025

Everything, even the bad things in life, can be an outward and visible sign of God's grace. Working in our lives. That is our Bethany. For many of you, your Bethany is probably right here at All Saints Church. It may be somewhere else. We need to find our Bethany. Because unless we find our Bethany and we can connect and we can be vulnerable, and we can tap into who Christ has created us to be.

Article: Stations in the Street by Nina Stewart

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 17:15:02 GMT

To help spread the word about *Stations in the Street*, be sure to read this thoughtful article from Nina Stewart that dives into the heart of the experience. She shares meaningful reflections on what this opportunity offers during the season of Lent—a chance to pause, engage, and consider Christ’s passion in a deeper, more personal way.

No More Excuses

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:53:49 GMT

"No More Excuses"

Sermon by The Rev. Katie Nakamura

March 31, 2025

Communion is a sacrament, an outward and visible and tangible and tasteful sign of an inward and unseen grace, an outward and visible and traceable sign of an internal message of love and abundance and belonging. We are journeying together through the rest of this season of lent, I just offer you that question once more to chew on in your own life and your own work and your own faith. What is it that through God's abundance and love, you have no more excuse for? And for that love and for that belonging, and for that abundance of grace and life which takes away all our excuses.

Baby Shower for The Rev. Ranie Neislar April 26

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 19:22:04 GMT

Let’s shower Ranie with love and welcome Baby Mose in style! All women and girls of All Saints—no matter your age—are invited to a joyful baby shower celebrating the upcoming arrival of "Mose Wadsworth Stuart VI", due at the end of May! Join us on Saturday, April 26 at 10:00am in our Great Hall for sweet treats, good company, and lots of baby joy.

We’re also collecting diapers of all sizes to donate to "Bundle of Hope Diaper Bank" in honor of Ranie, Worth, and baby Mose.

Please RSVP to Kathleen Busbee at kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org by Wednesday, April 23, and reach out if you have any questions.

Ranie and Worth are registered at [ babylist.com ]( https://www.babylist.com ) under "Ranie Neisler and Worth Stuart".

Fully Human

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 19:56:05 GMT

"Fully Human"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

March 16, 2025

During the first four centuries of the church, the nature and relationship of the divine and the human in Jesus were hotly contested.

But about 450 years after Jesus, the Council of Chalcedon firmly expressed the orthodox doctrine of the Incarnation, recognizing Jesus as “truly God and truly man…in two natures, without confusion, without change, without division, without separation.” (If you haven’t read about the conclusions of the Council of Chalcedon recently you can check it out on page 864 of The Book of Common Prayer , but maybe wait until after the sermon.)

The incarnation, the “enfleshment,” Jesus as fully human and fully divine, the Son of God in the flesh. And the Word became flesh and lived among us. (John 1:14).

If one can have a favorite church doctrine, this is mine. I love the doctrine of the incarnation and hold it as one the dearest parts of our faith.

BUT…even though I do love this doctrine and what it tries to capture, I’m not saying that my understanding of it is perfect and without any questions.

Now I don’t know about you, but most of the time I feel pretty comfortable with the God Jesus, but much of the time I have a harder time with the human Jesus.

Jesus was 100 percent God and 100 percent human. It is a miracle that is impossible for us to understand completely, of course; but I believe we do have to deal with both of those aspects of this human being who was the incarnate God, the enfleshed.

Today’s reading from Luke’s Gospel is a place where I think we can see the human Jesus very clearly.

The reading occurs in what is many times called Luke’s “journey narrative.” That narrative begins after the Transfiguration in Luke, Chapter 9, with the words “he (that is Jesus) set his face to go to Jerusalem” and ends with his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, described in Luke, Chapter 19.

In Luke’s writing, it takes Jesus long time to get to Jerusalem, and a lot goes on as he is on the way.

Today’s reading gives us two glimpses of Jesus’ humanity, Jesus’ human vulnerability.

First some Pharisees come to Jesus and tell him that Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee on behalf of the Roman Empire, wants to kill him. This Roman puppet was someone Jesus and other Jews would have considered little more than a collaborator with the Roman occupiers, but a very dangerous puppet and collaborator. He was the man who had ordered the beheading of John the Baptizer.

Now usually the Pharisees were not portrayed as friends of Jesus, and we aren’t sure whether these men described in the reading were genuine in their warning or simply trying to manipulate Jesus and distract him from what he was really trying to do. But whatever their motivation, Jesus surely knew that Herod was a dangerous man.

We hear Jesus dismiss Herod’s threat of death, knowing that he still has work to do, so much work to do. Healing, teaching, forgiving, opposing evil.

But, Jesus the one who was 100 percent man, would suffer pain and would die a physical death. Going to Jerusalem, going to face arrest by Roman soldiers in a garden, going to die a humiliating death on a Roman cross. And, I don’t think the fact that we 21 ^st century Christians know the end of the story, an empty tomb and resurrection, should cause us to minimize the pain of that physical death.

I often wonder if church attendance is so much higher on Easter morning than it is on Good Friday is because of our inability or our unwillingness to see the human side of Jesus. Sure there are some tense and disturbing moments during Holy Week, but we know that it’s all going to be okay come Easter.

No, Jesus was faced with the ultimate human vulnerability. The vulnerability of our human mortality, of death.

A second glimpse of Jesus human side is shown in today’s reading as Jesus travelled Jesus. He wept, he lamented, he grieved for the city and its inhabitants that he had sought to gather to himself, like a mama hen gathering her chicks under her wings. It hurt.

But the city and its inhabitants would reject him and would continue to reject him as hung on a cross, perhaps most soundly as he hung on a cross. The vulnerability of risking and then experiencing failures and disappointments, of loving and then having that love rejected, of working and working and yet not achieving all we might want.

And this is what incarnation is all about. To give up the invulnerability of God for the vulnerability of being human.

To take on every single human emotion and feeling – from joy to lament to pain to dying. To know every human situation from temptation to death. To live with an open heart, so open that unconditional, fierce, protective love – the courage to risk rejection - could be shared with everyone. And, to do it all for us.

That kind of courage, that willingness to risk, and that kind of openness and authenticity is what Jesus calls us to - each of us and all of us together as the church.

To be courageous when others seek to oppose us or to distract us from the work God has given us to do, to love even when rejection is possible, and to do it for others with open hearts and minds. To be fully human.

In the words of storyteller, researcher, and Episcopalian Brene Brown –

To become fully human means learning to turn my gratitude for being alive into some concrete common good. It means growing gentler toward human weakness. It means practicing forgiveness of my and everyone else's hourly failures to live up to divine standards. It means learning to forget myself on a regular basis in order to attend to the other selves in my vicinity. It means living so that "I'm only human" does not become an excuse for anything. It means receiving the human condition as blessing and not curse, in all its achingly frail and redemptive reality.

Or in the more ancient voice of Irenaeus, a Bishop of the early church.

The glory of God is a human person fully alive.

During this Lenten season, let us travel with Jesus as he approaches Jerusalem, the cross, and death. Let us take some time to sit with the human Jesus, with a side of Jesus that we may not understand or with which we may not be comfortable. And, may we hear his call to be fully alive, fully human as he was fully human.

AMEN.

We Are Beloved Dust

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 22:05:40 GMT

"We Are Beloved Dust"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

March 9, 2025

In the creation stories of Genesis, we learn that we are not worthless dirt. We learn that we are beloved dust. This sacred worth is our birthright as we are created in the image and likeness of God. And we, like Jesus, are marked as beloved. So more than a moral checklist or keeping the letter of the law this Lent, we have the Grace to live into our identity as beloved children of God.

Easter Flowers

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 21:53:23 GMT

Easter Memorials

Honor your loved ones at Easter with a donation to the Flower or Music funds. Complete the online form and pay online or by check.

Contributions are $50. You may pay through Realm or send a check directly to the church office. Please remember to write “Easter Memorial Flowers” or "Easter Music Fund" in the memo section of the check or on Realm so the contribution will be directed to the right fund. The deadline for memorials is Monday, April 14th.

We Are All Part of One Body

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:49:05 GMT

"We Are All Part of One Body"

Sermon by Breanna Carter

February 9, 2025

As we leave these doors, you are called to be His disciple. A disciple, someone who follows Christ, is transformed by Him and is proclaiming his work to the world around us. We prove that we are disciples in how we love God, and then how we love his people. It's in how we love our families, and then how we love our friends, how we love our enemies and those who've wronged us. If and how we love those we don't agree with and those that we do, it's in how we live. Those who look like us and those who don't. You are called to be his disciple.

God is Present in the Valleys

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:25:35 GMT

"God is Present in the Valleys"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

March 2, 2025

It is those valleys which fortify us in our faith. And that is what I hope we can all walk into as we experience lent. God is equally present in the valleys, and the more that we discern God's presence at these lower points of our lives, just like the followers are discerning these hard moments and their new season as they follow Jesus down off the mountain and to the cross, we are also called to do that, and in that we will persevere in our lives as disciples.

Stations in the Street

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:23:21 GMT

What are the signs hanging outside the church? They are "Stations in the Street," an outdoor art exhibit by Scott Erickson that will be open day and night here at All Saints from until Easter Sunday, April 20 . Take a walk through the Stations of the Cross and reflect on Jesus’ journey. Stop for a moment of prayer, find creative inspiration, or take a peaceful stroll. No tickets. No set hours. Just art, whenever you’re ready to experience it. Be sure to scan the QR codes on each piece of art to read a brief reflection by the artist!

Here are additional ways to immerse yourself in this experience:

Sunday Mornings ( Room 223, 10–10:45am ) – Join us to reflect on the meditations. No preparation needed.
Wednesday Evenings ( 6–7pm ) – Group reflection led by Rachel Woodroof and the Rev. Brad Landry.
Self-Guided Option – Access materials online or pick up a hard copy for individual reflection.

Creation Care Upcoming Events

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 19:15:24 GMT

Here are some great opportunities to get involved!

April 4

Nature at Noon at Red Mountain with Alabama Audubon

Preregistration required at https://alaudubon.org/event/nature-at-noon-red-mountain-park-venice-rd-entrance-free

April 4

Party on the Porch, Alabama Outdoors benefitting DRIFT

https://www.instagram.com/alabamaoutdoorsofficial/p/DHMW_Iqx1_6/

April 5, 12, 19 & 26

Native Plant Sale at Ruffner Mountain

https://ruffnermountain.org/calendar

April 5

Gate City Clean up with Black Warrior Riverkeeper

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gate-city-cleanup-tickets-1261569391009?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

April 10

Alabama Environmental Council Green Drinks

https://aeconline.org/event/04-10-2025/

April 11-12

Spring Plant Sale including native plants at Birmingham Botanical Gardens https://bbgardens.org/event/spring-plant-sale/

April 12

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event
https://www.jccal.org/Default.asp?ID=2294&pg=Electronics+Hazardous+Materials

April 19

Earthbound’s Earthfest 2025 for Black Warrior Riverkeeper https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Dazrg3CMb/

April 21

Cahaba River Society Earth Week Clean-Up

https://cahabariversociety.org/event/earth-week-clean-up-series-jefferson-county-april-21/

April 25

Document Shredding & Electronics Recycling at Homewood Public Library https://homewoodpuregionsbliclibrary.org/event/12823689

April 26

Cahaba River Society Earth Week Celebration

https://cahabariversociety.org/event/earth-week-celebration-april-26-2025/

April 26

Alabama Environmental Council Earth Day Clean Up https://aeconline.org/events/

May 4

Darter Festival

https://aeconline.org/darterfest/

May 10

Jefferson County Electronic Recycling & Paper Shredding https://aeconline.org/event/jefferson-co-electronic-collection-paper-shredding-2/

Women's Retreat @ Camp McDowell April 11

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 17:35:35 GMT

Calling all women ages 21 and up! Save the date: April 11-12 . Join us for part or all of the weekend. DEADLINE to sign up is April 4!

All women 21+ are invited to join for an amazing and restful weekend at Camp McDowell! This weekend is open to parishioners and friends. Whether you stay the whole weekend, just one night, or only for the day on Saturday, we can’t wait to share this time with you. Embrace free time, fellowship, delicious food, and fun activities in "God’s Backyard!" You may enjoy camp-style activities and/or simply relax in a rocking chair. Renew friendships and discover new connections in a setting that brings us closer together!

Click HERE for more information about this weekend!

One night stay - 1 Room (Each motel-style room has two queen beds): $130
Day only Per Person Cost (includes meals) - No overnight stay: $50.00
Meals - $60 per person

*price includes food, t shirt, welcome bag, and supplies for activities!

You may pay by check or on Realm through online giving -- please click the dropdown labeled "Women's Retreat"!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Walk Lightly in the Light of Love

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:18:38 GMT

"Walk Lightly in the Light of Love"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

February 23, 2025

Both in the church and out in the world, so many times we are being forced to one side of the issue or another, becoming suspicious of those who believe differently than us, who look different than us, who were brought up differently than us. But you and I are called not to a culture war, but to a kingdom of God, where there is always a stranger to welcome, always a neighbor to befriend, and always an enemy to love. Let go of the burdens of fear, maybe you are trying too hard. Lightly, child, lightly. Learn to do everything lightly. Yes. Feel lightly even though you're feeling deeply. Just lightly let things happen and lightly cope with them. Walk lightly in love, to ask God to help you, to forgive, to ask God to help you, to love. To walk lightly in the light of love.

Choristers from All Saints Take Part in the Christ Church Cathedral Chorister Festival in Nashville

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 13:36:04 GMT

All Saints Choir School recently joined singers from several churches for the 26th Annual Cathedral Chorister Festival at Christ Church Cathedral in downtown Nashville! Under the direction of Dr. Maxine Thévenot, nine of our leaders and choristers, combined voices and rehearsed together on Saturday and then led worship through Holy Eucharist and Solemn Choral Evensong on Sunday, March 23.

In preparation, our singers put in several extra hours of rehearsal leading up to the festival, working diligently to master particularly challenging—but deeply rewarding—music. Their hard work and dedication truly paid off, and we couldn’t be more proud of them!

We invite you to WATCH THE EVENSONG SERVICE and hear their beautiful singing.

A special thank you to Christ Church Cathedral for hosting, and to all the participating choirs for making this a truly wonderful experience!

Participating Choristers from All Saints:

Brooks Batson

Connor Norton

Meredith Norton

Elena Moreno

Nico Moreno

Maggie Gill

Poppy Cunningham

Soren Cunningham

Ian Cunningham

Blessed

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 18:25:37 GMT

"Blessed"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

February 16, 2025

I don’t know about you, but as a priest with many seminary classmates and other preachers on my social media I tend to see a lot of religious memes. I have to admit that I do enjoy these, and there are some that make me smile or even chuckle every time they come up (and as you know most memes do tend to come up over and over again on social media).

One of my favorites of these religious memes came to mind more than once as I was working on this sermon. I’m guessing many of you have probably seen it. It shows Jesus, sitting in his best first century rabbi pose, teaching his followers and saying, “Now listen up, I don’t want four different versions of this going around.”

(As a preaching nerd, I find that meme hilarious. It makes me laugh every time I see it.)

Of course, it came to mind because our Gospel reading for today, is a portion of what is usually called the “Sermon on the Plain,” and it resembles the familiar Beatitudes which we read in Matthew’s more famous “Sermon on the Mount.” But, there are differences.

Both Luke and Matthew seem to have exercised considerable freedom in compiling their collections of Jesus’ teachings to meet their own literary and theological purposes. Neither can be shown to be a verbatim record of an actual preaching or teaching event in Jesus’ ministry.

You see each of the Gospels presents the story of Jesus in a different way, and much of their richness is lost if we try to make them fit together in one consistent account.

The Gospels all proclaim the Good News of God’s salvation in and through Jesus of Nazareth. But, they are concerned less with the biographical details of Jesus’ life than they are with what that life means for us and for the world.

For example, the Jesus of Matthew’s Gospel (where we find the Sermon on the Mount) is a new Moses who fulfills the scripture and establishes the authority of his words. Perhaps that is why Matthew placed Jesus on a Mountain when he delivered his Sermon on the Mount – an allusion to Moses receiving God’s word on a mountain, something those who heard Matthew’s Gospel would have easily recognized.

The Jesus of Luke’s Gospel is compassionate, a friend to outcasts. Jesus is the savior who came to seek and save the lost. Just before Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Plain, he prayed on a mountain before calling his inner circle, his apostles. And, then he came “down… and stood in a level place” to be near all those who had come to hear him and to be healed.

(Pause)

As we read the series of blessings and woes in today’s reading we hear echoes of other readings we have heard recently from Luke’s Gospel. We hear echoes of Mary’s Song, the Magnificat, from Luke, Chapter 1, that we heard in the season of Advent.

He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.

And, we hear echoes of the scripture from the prophet Isaiah on which

Jesus based his sermon in Nazareth, a reading we heard a few weeks

ago from Luke, Chapter 4.

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,

because he has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
to let the oppressed go free,

to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

Blessed are you who are poor…who are hungry now…who weep now.

Woe to you who are rich…who are full now…who are laughing now.

It’s a sermon about who’s in and who’s out in God’s kingdom. And, frankly, it’s a little bit, maybe more than a little bit, unsettling.

A few words about this unsettling picture.

First, the blessing of the poor, the hungry, and consequently those who weep is not intended to idealize or glorify poverty. Rather, this blessing declares, what a commentator has called, God’s “prejudicial commitment to the poor.”

One theologian has written -

“God has a preferential love for the poor not because they are necessarily better than others, morally or religiously, but simply because they are poor and living in an inhuman situation that is contrary to God’s will. The ultimate basis for the privileged position of the poor is not the poor themselves but in God, in the gratuitous and universality of God’s…love.”

Jesus was the human expression of how God loves; and in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is a compassionate friend to outcasts. And, that kind of love is scandalous, shocking, outrageous. Especially to those of us who are not poor or hungry.

Rachel Held Evans, in her book Searching for Sunday , wrote “what makes the gospel offensive isn't who it keeps out but who it lets in.” The poor, the hungry, the weeping, the oppressed.

Now, what Jesus was preaching here is what we call “eschatological.” It’s about how everything will be when God makes it all right. The coming of the kingdom will turn everything upside down and inside out. Every one of the conventional expectations that this world holds will be shattered when God’s kingdom comes in its fulness. Here and now the rich, the full, the laughing are on top; the poor, the hungry, the weeping are on the bottom. Not so in God’s kingdom.

Now, I don’t know about you, but if that’s where we could end things with Jesus’ sermon this morning, well, God’s prejudicial commitment to the poor might sound just fine to me. Because I could know that God’s going to take care of it. Everything is going to be fine.

But, you see, in this “sermon on the plain,” Jesus told us what God is like, who God is, and what God is up to. It is the same God we have heard in the words of the Old Testament prophets and all through scripture. And, once we know that, I believe that we must realize there are implications for the behavior of those of us here and now who are loved by God and love God back.

There are implications for the behavior of those of us who have heard Jesus say, as he did in that sermon in Nazareth, that he was the very fulfillment of that scripture from Isaiah that talked about bringing good news to the poor and letting the oppressed go free.

There are implications for our lives here and now if we dare to take the name of Jesus, if we dare to receive God’s love, if we love God back.

My friends, there are implications for those of us who pray they kingdom, thy will be done.

There are implications. AMEN.

Children's Formation Prayer Shawl Project for 3rd Grade Solemn Communion

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:51:22 GMT

Children’s Formation invites you to take part in a special tradition for 3rd grade Solemn Communion. One of the most meaningful moments for the children is embroidering a cross on their own prayer shawl.

We need six volunteers on Sunday, February 23 , from 2:45-4:15pm in Adult Sunday School Room 223 to assist children as they sew a cross onto their shawls. No advanced sewing skills are required—each shawl is pre-made, with the cross outlined in washable ink and set in an embroidery hoop.

There is also an opportunity to help prepare prayer shawls for next year (date TBD). No sewing experience is needed, as tasks include tearing fabric, ironing, and folding.

If you’d like to help with either opportunity, please contact Jeannie Feldman at jeanniefeldman@att.net . Your support makes this tradition possible!

Care Team Training April 6

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 17:21:29 GMT

Join Us for All Saints Care/Support Team Ministry Training Sunday, April 6!

Do you know someone who could use a little extra help—now or in the future? Maybe they need a ride to the store, help with childcare, financial support, or just a friendly visit. The All Saints Care/Support Team Ministry is a group of volunteers who work together to provide practical, emotional, and spiritual care for those facing health challenges.

Rev. Malcolm Marler (husband of Rev. Mary Bea Sullivan) will lead a special training during the Sunday School hour on April 6, in the Great Hall entitled: “Working Together to Share the Care: How to Develop a Support Team for Someone Who Needs or Wants It.”

Everyone is welcome—whether you’re looking for ways to help or might need support yourself. Come learn how we can share the care together!

The Holy Spirit is Here

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 20:00:45 GMT

"The Holy Spirit is Here"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

February 2, 2025

Our offering plates are too small. Our altar is too small. We are placing just a fraction of what we owe to God on this altar. From the nations, to Birmingham, to your grocery store, to your school. What we experience here is that light that enables us to shine in the darkness, to be the body and blood of Christ. To know that the Holy Spirit is not only active in Simeon and Anna, or the apostles or Jesus. The Holy Spirit is here, the Holy Spirit is here.

Soup for the Saints March 16

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:26:26 GMT

The DEADLINE to get your tickets is March 12! Join us on March 16 for "Soup for the Saints!" This is a special fundraiser supporting our Outreach Ministry. We have two meal options available. You can have lunch after the 11:00am service (purchase LUNCH HERE ) or dinner before the 5:30pm service (purchase DINNER HERE ). The menu includes potato soup, salad, rolls, and a dessert. There will be live music and activities for youth! Everyone is welcome, but seating is limited.

Contemplative Outreach Birmingham Annual Conference

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 20:49:22 GMT

Contemplative Outreach Birmingham is honored to host Rev. Dr. Stuart Higginbotham for a one-day contemplative conference on *Poetic Imagination and the Consent to the Divine Presence*. The conference will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025 , from 9:00am to 3:00pm at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church. The cost is $70 by credit card or $65 by check, with lunch included. Registration is required.

Toward the end of his life, Fr. Thomas Keating turned to poetry to express his deepest awareness of the Divine Presence. His poems serve both as a personal testament to his spiritual journey and as a teaching tool for others to explore in their own practice. Understanding why Fr. Thomas embraced poetry at that stage of his life offers valuable insights into his spiritual wisdom. The Rev. Dr. Stuart Higginbotham is an Episcopal priest and serves as rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville, Georgia. He is also Assistant Professor in the Practice of Spiritual Formation and Ministry at Candler School of Theology at Emory University.

God Has Sent Us

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 15:02:26 GMT

"God Has Sent Us"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

January 26, 2025

If God's vision is to become our vision to embody Christ's transforming love, we must resist with love the forces that seek to commoditize our divisions. The spirit of the Lord God is upon us, the body of Christ. For God has anointed us in our baptism to bring good news to the poor. God has sent us to proclaim release to the captives. God has sent us to give recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free. God has sent us to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. My friends, today this scripture can be fulfilled in your hearing. Today, this scripture can be fulfilled in your doing. Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your being. The body of Christ.

Wednesday Night at the Well

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:03:33 GMT

Join us every Wednesday, beginning at 6:00pm , for "Wednesday Night at the Well!" We have Atrium for three years of age to sixth grade, a Spiritual Formation Group led by Rachel Woodroof and The Rev. Brad Landry, as well as an online Centering Prayer group. Learn more HERE

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Ministry & Money Feb. 2

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 13:54:38 GMT

Join us on Sunday, Feb. 2 , between the morning worship services in the Great Hall for "Ministry and Money!" We’ll provide updates on how much we’ve raised, share our 2025 budget, and provide an overview of our financial status. Don’t miss this important session!

Adult Confirmation Classes Begin Feb. 23

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 19:45:07 GMT

Are you an adult interested in preparing for confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation of your faith at the bishop’s visit on May 11? Are you interested in an introduction to the Episcopal tradition or a “refresher”? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, please join us at  9:45am on Sunday, February 23, in the Great Hall.

If you have questions or to let us know you want to be a part of these classes, please contact The Rev. Brad Landry ( blandry@allsaintsbhm.org ) or The Rev. Cindy Carter ( ccarter@allsaintsbhm.org ). All are welcome!

Habitat for Humanity Build

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:32:25 GMT

SIGN UP NOW! Grab your toolbelt and join All Saints for a Habitat for Humanity Build on April 4-5! We need helping hands to make a difference. We’re looking for 20 volunteers for each of those days, and participants must be at least 14 years old.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Join Us at the Party

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 20:55:53 GMT

"Join Us at the Party"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

January 19, 2025

If we focus too much on the details of a story, and it is very detailed, the details of the miracle, if you will, then I am afraid we might miss the bigger point. We may miss the sign, the showing of something very important about the true identity of this one who was born in a manger. Sort of like seeing the trees, but missing the forest. Trying to figure out all the details of the story, but missing its meaning. So how can we avoid the trap of focusing on the story's details and miss its significance? At a wedding in Cana of Galilee, Jesus turned water into wine to point us to the glory of his father, a God who I believe absolutely loves to hear the laughter of God's people, and who desires God's children to live their life together in a spirit of celebration and abundance. In her book 'Searching for Sunday', Rachel Held Evans wrote this, "The church is God saying, I'm throwing a banquet and all these mismatched, messed up people are invited here. Have some wine, join us at the party where the wine never runs out. And the best is saved for last." Amen.

Lent Reflections

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 21:28:43 GMT

Share your reflection with our parish this Lent! It’s a wonderful way to connect with scripture and the season’s readings. If you’re seeking a thoughtful, prayerful Lent, sign up today. Your reflections will be shared in digital and printed formats for everyone to enjoy!

Once registered, we’ll email you all the details, including the scripture assigned for you to write about.

The deadline to sign up is February 3 . But the quicker you register, the quicker you can start working on your submission, so sign up today!

URGENT! Nursery Workers Needed

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 02:32:25 GMT

All Saints is urgently seeking nursery staff for Sunday mornings. As long as you're at least 16 years old, you can jump into this opportunity to help out.

If you are interested please contact our Nursery Director, Jennifer Cupps, jcupps@allsaintsbhm.org

With God's Help

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 15:09:46 GMT

"With God's Help"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

January 12, 2025

In our Old Testament reading, it says that God calls us each by name. God knows our name in this name of grace. Though it seems like it was only yesterday, we find that today is the day. Today is the day that we recall Jesus's baptism at the River Jordan. Though it seems like it was only yesterday. Today is the day that we remember our own baptisms. We don't say God will do it all. God has this figured out and I don't have to do a thing. God will take care of it. We aren't saying that. In this beautiful alchemy of grace, in one breath we say, I will. And we merge our wills with God, as we say, with God's help.

Guest Preacher Sunday Feb. 9

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 20:34:34 GMT

Join us on Sunday, February 9, to hear Breanna Carter speak at both worship services. Breanna Carter is a Courageous Conversation Certified Practitioner with a passion for fostering racial healing, reconciliation, and systemic change. She hold a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and an MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport.

Her professional journey began with Sawyerville, a diocesan ministry dedicated to creating opportunities for children and youth in Hale County through free summer programs, mentoring, and scholarships. As Assistant Director, she was instrumental in coordinating and executing programs that broadened horizons, improved race relations in Alabama, and enriched the lives of those living in poverty through the Summer Learning program and Person2Person.

Currently, she serves as the Missioner for Racial Healing and Pilgrimage for the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. In this role, she leads initiatives to promote racial healing and reconciliation, design and facilitate programming, and foster courageous conversations that inspire meaningful change in communities and individuals alike.

Through her work, she strives to create spaces where understanding, justice, and transformation take root and flourish.

Breastfeeding, Bottle Feeding, and Combo Feeding Support Group

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:30:49 GMT

Join the 'Smartt Lactation Support Group' every 2nd Tuesday of the month from 9:30am to 11:30am in Jackson-Thorpe. Free support available, and drop-ins are welcome.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Meal Registration Wednesday Nights

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 21:04:57 GMT

We are excited to offer catered dinners on Wednesday nights. To help us plan, we are asking for you to sign up and let us know if you’ll be joining that following Wednesday. This helps us order just the right amount and manage costs responsibly. There is a deadline to sign up each week, Monday by 12:00pm.

January 15

Ashley Mac's poppy seed chicken

Deadline to sign up for this night: January 13

January 22

Tazikis: Chicken, potatoes, salad

January 29

Ashley Mac's breakfast casserole

Join Our Choir School

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:36:27 GMT

In this message, Ian Cunningham reflects on the exciting opportunities ahead for the All Saints Choir School. He shares his personal connection to the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) and highlights upcoming events and programs that will inspire and enrich choristers and their families.

From Ian Cunningham

I had hoped to share a few words at the Choir School Kickoff in August, but we decided that I could write a short message to the church and all those in the "Choir School Family."

When I first heard that All Saints was finally becoming associated with the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) and adopting the Voice for Life® curriculum, it was a dream come true.

I spent my first few years at All Saints evangelizing about RSCM, since Voice for Life® was the first pillar of my music education. I later attended the nation's largest RSCM choir residency—an intensive choir camp for young singers—eleven times. The course was held at King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Started in the 1990s, it took place yearly until 2019. I attended this choir residency five times as a chorister and then another six as a staff member. It was an integral part of my young adulthood, and I made lasting friendships and connections with vocalists, organists, and conductors from around the country during my time there.

The weeklong camp I attended at King's no longer exists, but some of the alumni formed a new one. In 2022, this new camp began: the RSCM Midwest America Summer Choral Residency at Indiana's University of Evansville. Its registration recently opened for July 21–27, 2025. I am joining the residential staff there this coming summer, and I hope, through this program, to finally introduce my children, Poppy and Soren, to some of the most notable musicians in the country. All of our All Saints Choir School choristers aged 10 and up will have that same incredible opportunity.

There is also a weekend event in Nashville on March 22–23, 2025, roughly halfway between here and Indianapolis, which would work well as a stepping stone for curious choristers and their families. The 26th Annual Cathedral Chorister Festival at Christ Church Cathedral is a two-day event that will allow choristers to work with musicians from across the nation. On Saturday, choristers will rehearse in preparation for a Sunday morning service and evensong the following day. We already have choristers signed up, and we would love for more to join.

All this is to say that Maggie and Brad, bringing us into the arms of this global community, is a gift! The free workshops provided by the Choir School are priceless. The special services the choirs sing—the upcoming Contemplative Evensong on February 5, the Lessons and Carols of Creation later this spring, the Service of Remembrance every November, and the yearly Advent Lessons and Carols in December—are gorgeous and memorable events.

The All Saints Choir School programs have always been something special for the Birmingham area, but all of these upcoming opportunities to sing, learn, and travel are a gateway to unforgettable experiences in the music world at large.

Attached at the bottom are a few highlights from some of my favorite years at RSCM's King's course, 2009 and 2011.

There aren't many visual or audio recordings, but here are a couple of resources:

VIDEO FROM 2013

AUDIO FILES

All of these opportunities are open to any young person. Our choirs and music programs are open to any child in the community, and any of our choristers have the opportunity to register for RSCM choral programs as well as the Nashville Choral Festival in March.

Ian Cunningham

___________________________

We thank Ian for his insight and passion for our Choir School and the opportunities available to our youth! To register for a choir in the All Saints Choir School, or to find our more about our choirs, check out our WEBPAGE . Contact Maggie Gill at mgill@allsaintsbhm.org to find out more, or to receive links to sign up for the following events that Ian spoke about:

March 22-23 will be the 26th Annual Cathedral Chorister Festival

Christ Church Cathedral, Nashville, TN

*Contact Maggie Gill ( mgill@allsaintsbhm.org ) by February 20 if you are interested in this event

Saturday, March 22, 2025 | Workshop and Rehearsal day

Sunday, March 23, 2025 | 11:15 AM Holy Eucharist & 4:00 PM Choral Evensong (all participating choristers sing these two services)

Guest Director Maxine Thévenot, from the Cathedral in Albuquerque

*To see last year's Evensong from this event CLICK HERE

July 21-27, 2025 RSCM Midwest in Evansville, IN

This seven-day immersive choral experience is an RSCM America Summer Choral Residency for children age 10+ and adult singers.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Women at the Well Potluck Jan. 21

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 14:23:17 GMT

Join us on Tuesday, January 21, at 6:00pm in the Great Hall for an evening of fellowship and meaningful discussion about justice reform in Alabama. The event features Carla Crowder, Executive Director of Alabama Appleseed Center for Law and Justice. This is a potluck gathering, so bring a dish to share as we come together to learn and connect. For more information, contact Jill Edwards, Julie Ellis, or Cindy Carter.

Rector Bible Study

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 17:48:35 GMT

The Rector’s Bible Study (RBS) meets every Wednesday at 10:00am in room 223.

The Word Has Become Flesh: Christmas Eve Sermon

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:36:36 GMT

"The Word Has Become Flesh"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

December 24, 2024

The irony is that despite our best efforts, words sometimes fail to convey the enormity of God's love brought to life on a scale we can behold. When our words won't quite get at the profound simplicity of it all. We sometimes must break out in song, as did Blessed Simeon, Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, and the angelic chorus. When words won't quite capture it. We sometimes must turn to poetry or liturgy or art. Or maybe, like Mary, we simply grow still, treasuring, pondering these things in our hearts. So on this Christmas Eve, dear friends, we proclaim that profound truth. The word has become flesh and dwelt among us. What more is there left to say?

LEM/Lector Training Jan. 19

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 20:13:01 GMT

LEM & Lector training is set for 12:15pm on Sunday, January 19 . If you have any questions connect with Ther Rev. Brad Landry, blandry@allsaintsbhm.org

Feast of Epiphany Jan. 6

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 17:01:33 GMT

Join us Monday, January 6, 2025 at 12:00pm as we recognize the "Feast of Epiphany". This celebrates the manifestation of Jesus to the world and is a custom of family and friends gathering to ask God’s blessing on their homes and those who live in or visit the home. It is an invitation for Jesus to be a daily guest in our home, our comings and goings, our conversations, our work and play, our joys and sorrows.

A traditional way of doing this is to use chalk blessed during the liturgy for the Feast of Epiphany and write the following above the home’s entryway:

20 + C + M + B + 24

The letters C, M, B have two meanings. They are the initials of the traditional names of the three magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. They also abbreviate the Latin words Christus mansionem benedicat, “May Christ bless the house.” The “+” signs represent the cross and 2024 is the year.

About Epiphany

The feast of the Epiphany is January 6th, twelve days after Christmas. It officially ends the “twelve days of Christmas” from which we get that carol “On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…”. In the Western churches (including the Episcopal Church), Epiphany celebrates the arrival of the Wise Men from the East to the Christ child in Bethlehem. Epiphany means "manifestation" or "revelation" or "appearing". It makes sense that Epiphany season comes right after Christmas. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus; Epiphany is about the spread of the good news to the wider world. For the Eastern Churches, this celebration mixes together both the visitation of the Wise Men and the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan. Both of these are events that manifest the divinity of Christ to the wider world. In the Eastern Churches, Epiphany is called “Theophany”, which means basically the “shining-forth” of God.

The Magi

The Feast of the Epiphany centers on the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem. In the Christmas story that St. Matthew tells us, wise men from the East study the stars and the prophecies, and detect the birth of the Savior. They travel to Bethlehem to pay homage to Jesus Christ, and they bring with them gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh. The Gospel account doesn't say that there are three magi, nor that they are kings. Over the years, our Christian ancestors described them as three kings named Balthesar, Melchior, and Caspar (although in different cultures they have different names!) Read the story of the Magi in the gospel of Matthew 2:1-12.

Mothers of God

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 16:45:23 GMT

"Mother's of God"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

December 22, 2024

Today’s Gospel reading is the second part of the story of a young woman named Mary found in Luke, Chapter 1.

A young woman – a teen-ager, really no more than a girl - living in the small town of Nazareth, going about her business as she anticipated the completion of her marriage to a local carpenter.

In the first part of the story, the part we sang about a few minutes ago, this young woman suddenly, unexpectedly was greeted by an angelic messenger named Gabriel, who told her that she had been chosen to bear God’s son. An event called the Annunciation in the Church.

In the portion of this story that we have read today, Mary has “made haste” to go visit an older kinswoman named Elizabeth, who is also carrying an unexpected, miraculous child. An event called the Visitation in the Church. (Spoiler alert: the child Elizabeth is carrying will grow up to be called John the Baptizer.)

No doubt. Mary and Elizabeth had much to discuss.

This two-part story (the Annunciation and the Visitation) has inspired writers and artists and musicians for more than two thousand years.

For preachers, the focus for sermons based on this two-part story is most often Mary.

Faithful Mary, who said yes to Gabriel’s amazing and surprising message.

Brave Mary, who lived under the oppressive rule of Rome, the most powerful country on earth and yet spoke the radical, even revolutionary, words we recited/sang a few moments ago. Words about scattering the proud, bringing down the powerful from their thrones, sending the rich away empty. Brave Mary, feisty Mary, delivering a message of justice and basically saying to those who would oppress Mary and her people, to any oppressor, “bring it on.”

Joyful Mary, who like her Hebrew foremother Hannah, could not help but sing when she glimpsed the immensity of God’s love and power.

Mary – faithful, brave, joyful.

These are all appropriate and valid ways to interpret the story of Mary that we read in Luke, Chapter 1. I’ve preached these sermons before.

But, today, I’d like to suggest that we move from making Mary the main character in this story to making God the main character, the primary focus of our attention in this story.

What can we learn from this story if we focus on God’s role?

Well, first, we see that is God – not Gabriel, not Mary - who initiated the action in this story. God was certainly not passively watching here. God was the moving, the driving force. God was actively at work – not only in sending the angel Gabriel to Mary but in devising the plan that the angel will share with this young girl.

I think we also see that God invited others to be God’s partners in the action.

God sent a messenger who invited Mary to play a part in bringing the great gift of incarnation to the world – bearing God, allowing and enabling God to become like us, to bring us back to God, and to show us what it means to be truly human.

Note that I used the word “invite” here. You see I don’t think there was anything forced and even pre-ordained about Mary’s answer to this invitation. I’ve often wondered how many other young women might have already said “no” to the costly and risky invitation that Gabriel brought to Mary. But, perhaps that’s a discussion for another time.

What we do know is that God was active, and God invited others to be God’s partners in the action.

No matter how you look at it, it’s a beautiful story, isn’t it?

But, I wondered. I wondered, as I changed the focus in the story from Mary to God -

Is the God of Mary still active and at work in the world?

Is the God of Mary still inviting people to be partners in this work?

Does the God of Mary still send the message, “You are favored by God; God wants to do great things through you”?

Do we think God is done interrupting people’s lives to use them for the health of the world, or is God still doing things just like when the angel Gabriel was sent to deliver a message to that teen-ager named Mary?

Well, we’re Christians. We believe in God.

So, of course, the answer is “yes” to all these questions, isn’t it?

But, maybe we should hold on a minute, before we answer too quickly and too easily, let’s think – like Mary no doubt did – about what that “yes” means.

You see God’s invitation can be unexpected, even sudden; God’s invitation can interrupt our lives in ways we cannot even imagine; it can quite literally turn our world upside down. God’s invitation may be to do something risky and costly, even painful.

It may be an invitation to which our initial response may - like Mary - cause us to be perplexed, fearful, confused, troubled, and feeling more than a little bit inadequate for the task we have been asked to do.

This morning, as we come to the end of this time of preparation called Advent, as we anticipate our celebration of that great gift of the Incarnation, I believe that God is indeed still active and at work in our world, still looking for partners - for hands and feet and minds and hearts - to join in God’s work.

Meister Eckhart, who lived around 1300, wrote:

“What good is it to me that Mary gave birth to the son of God fourteen hundred years ago, and I do not also give birth to the Son of God in my time and in my culture? We are all meant to be mothers of God. God is always needing to be born.”

My friends, we have all been favored by the God of all creation and are invited to share in the meaningful work of loving and caring for the world God has created. To carry the light of the incarnate Christ in this place, in this time.

On this last Sunday of Advent, may we pray in the words of Bichop Deon Johnson of the Diocese of Missouri -

AMEN.

Morning Prayer

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 17:56:07 GMT

All are welcome! Join staff as we take time every Tuesday morning at 9:30am to have morning prayer in our Chapel. This is open to all parishioners.

Donate Altar Flowers

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 16:04:31 GMT

Altar Flower Memorials

If you wish to dedicate an altar arrangement, please reserve a date on the calendar below and provide payment for the dedicated arrangement. Please note that, in keeping with the liturgical seasons, altar arrangements do not include flowers during Advent and Lent.

• For a minimum donation of $100, the All Saints Flower Guild will create the arrangement. To make this donation, please provide a check (payable to All Saints Episcopal Church) or pay online at www.allsaintsbhm.org/give . When reserving your desired date, please enter any special requests (such as particular colors or flowers) in the “My Comment” section.

• If you prefer to use a florist, please contact the florist of your choice directly to request and pay for the desired arrangement. When reserving your preferred date, please enter the name and phone number of your florist in the “My Comments” section. When you dedicate an altar arrangement, your dedication will appear in that Sunday’s bulletin.

• When reserving a date, please enter what you would like the dedication to say (such as in honor, in memory or in thanksgiving for someone) in the “My Comment” section.

• If you do not enter any dedication in the “My Comment” section, in the bulletin we will show that the arrangement was dedicated “to the Glory of God.”

If you have any questions, please email allsaintshwdflowerguild@gmail.com .

The Practice of Prophets

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 20:56:21 GMT

"The Practice of Prophets"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

December 8, 2024

Now typically when we hear the message of the prophets, we think of the heavy hitters, right? The major prophets, the minor prophets. But two things that I have learned about a prophet through the catechesis of the good Shepherd, our own atrium is that if you spend enough time there, you will learn these things.. about a prophet. A prophet is one who listens. A prophet is one who listens intently to God. When the prophet speaks, it is not the prophet's own words, it is a thus saith the Lord, and that thus saith the Lord is only possible after having sat in silence to be still, to know that God is present, and to be attuned to the voice of God.

Odd

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:03:38 GMT

"Odd"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

December 1, 2024

A quote attributed to Flannery O’Connor, the Southern writer and devout Roman Catholic, tells us, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you odd.”

Now I don’t know the exact context in which this quote was originally used, but I do know that it never feels more true to me than it does during the season of Advent.

It’s a season in which the truth of our religious tradition can certainly make those of us who are Episcopalians seem more than a bit odd.

We don’t have our poinsettias out yet; we won’t sing Christmas carols until December 24 ^th ; and our nave is blue instead of red and green.

Advent is just plain odd. Advent doesn’t fit our culture at all. Out in the world, it has looked, sounded, and smelled like Christmas for quite a while now. And, if Advent is truly supposed to prepare us for the celebration of Christmas, then perhaps we should have done Advent sometime early last fall – like way before Halloween.

Whatever the church is doing here, it just doesn’t seem to fit the world in which we live, does it?

You see, in our religious tradition, Advent isn’t about shopping, decorating, baking and cooking, partying, or rushing around.

Advent is about watching, preparing, waiting, anticipating.

During the season of Advent, we are preparing to commemorate the birth of Jesus. But, we are also anticipating Christ’s return.

We are people who live in the “already – not yet.” Jesus has come and God’s kingdom on earth has already been initiated. But, that kingdom has not come in its fullness yet, not yet, not until Christ comes back in power and glory.

Already – not yet.

And, no season captures this reality, this tension, better than Advent. Advent invites us to sit with the uncomfortable reality that Jesus hasn’t fixed everything yet.

I tend to think of these four weeks waiting for and anticipating Christmas as a spiritual discipline, an exercise if you will, that builds our spiritual muscles for the really challenging task of waiting for the return of the risen Christ in glory, when everything will be fixed. A time of waiting that no one can predict its length or when it will occur.

The early Christians in Thessolonika to whom Paul wrote in the letter we heard today felt a whole lot of tension about the already not yet. They knew that Jesus had indeed come, and they believed that Jesus was coming. But, they believed that Jesus was coming back soon, very soon. So soon that no believers would die before Jesus came back.

Then waiting for Jesus to return got really hard because believers began to die and Jesus had not come back. How could they keep waiting?

This is one of the primary situations that caused Paul to write the letter from which we’ve read this morning.

And, we heard how Paul encouraged them.

…may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

Jesus is coming with all his saints - but not yet. Keep waiting, Keep watching.

Advent is indeed a very odd season.

So, what are we to do with this odd season that begins the church year?

Well, we could just forget about waiting, join the world in its mad rush to December 25 ^th , and consider Advent to be a quaint,charming vestige of church history.

The Advent wreath is a lovely custom and all that, but we’ve got shopping to do, gifts to wrap, parties to attend, cookies to bake, Santa to see, cards to write, trees to decorate, and on and on.

We could do that, and a lot of us will do that.

But, I’ve concluded that while it may be an odd season, Advent is perhaps more necessary today than ever before.

We live in a culture, where people can give thanks for all their blessings on Thursday and then rush out on Friday to grab up some more stuff. In fact, we don’t even have to wait and leave our homes to do our shopping on Friday. We can now shop on-line all day and all night, beginning on Thursday.

In that kind of culture, we desperately need an alternative way of looking at things and doing things. Because our culture is not very good at watching and preparing and waiting and anticipating.

Now, don’t worry, I am not going to begin a rant about not putting up your Christmas tree early (yours may already be decorated and glowing in your living room and that’s great). Or avoiding singing even one Christmas carol before Christmas Eve (I love Christmas carols). Or not going to any Christmas parties before December 25 ^th (parties can be great)

What I would like to recommend is that we all do something truly odd and counter—cultural, and take Advent seriously this year. That we use this next 23 days to watch, to prepare, to wait, to anticipate - in whatever way each of us sees fit. To find there is real joy in waiting.

Maybe we can make a vow not to overcommit, to give ourselves some quiet space to prepare our hearts and minds. Are there things we don’t absolutely have to do, places we don’t absolutely have to be, so that we can open our lives to God just a bit during these days?

So, we don’t wear ourselves out physically, emotionally, and spiritually - arriving at church on Christmas Eve too tired, too frustrated, too sick of what the world defines as “Christmas” truly to commemorate the coming of Jesus more than 2000 years ago, much less to think about Christ’s return in power and glory.

Maybe we can make a vow to be in worship on the four Sundays of Advent (you’re here today, so you are already 25 % of the way to that goal)? To give ourselves a space once a week to get away from the Christmas sights and sounds that are all around us. To come to a place that is a bit more quiet, a bit more holy.

Maybe to take on a discipline of more time for prayer each day, more time to read scripture or some devotional material. To learn more about Jesus, what he taught and lived, and how we can be people of God’s kingdom.

If you are looking for Advent reading material, check out the display of wonderful books in the cloister. For scripture readings, I often suggest reading portions of the prophets for Advent, since they are all about waiting and watching and expecting.

Maybe we can make a vow to be engaged in ministries of service during this time, to help move God’s kingdom a little closer to its fullness here and now. If you are looking for ways to be of service this Advent, be sure to check our weekly outreach e-mail.

Perhaps you could invite someone who is not so happy this holiday season or someone who is alone and lonely to come with you to one or two of our many events at All Saints during Advent.

Or perhaps you could send notes and cards to people you have not seen at All Saints for a while just to let them know you are thinking about them. Maybe they have been ill, or unable to leave their home, or whatever the reason they have been away – I am sure they would be delighted to hear from you.

Maybe we can be a little more mindful, more awake, in each moment of each day – seeing Jesus in the faces of those around us, recognizing the image of God in all our brothers and sisters. Even seeing the image of God in ourselves.

So, this morning I invite us all, and that includes me, to take Advent seriously this year; to risk being counter-cultural, to risk being a little bit odd compared to the rest of the world; to watch, prepare, wait, and anticipate.

On this first Sunday morning of Advent, may we hear the voice of Jesus say, “I am coming soon. Wait. Watch. Be ready.”

AMEN.

Now Collecting Nativity Crèches

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:51:41 GMT

We’re now collecting Nativity crèches to share with the All Saints' community! Please drop yours off at the front desk by December 13 . These will be beautifully arranged in the Cloister for everyone to enjoy throughout the season. Remember to pick up your crèche after the displays are taken down following Christmas.

Beauty All Around Us

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:51:51 GMT

"Beauty All Around Us"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

November 17, 2024

All Saints Crosses

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 20:13:19 GMT

Looking for a gift that’s both beautiful and meaningful? This Christmas, consider the All Saints Cross—a timeless symbol of faith available in sterling silver. These elegant crosses come in two sizes (see below), perfect for anyone on your list who cherishes their faith.

To ensure your gift arrives by Christmas, place your order by November 20 . Payment will be accepted at pickup.

To order: Please contact Nancy Terrell, nancy.b.terrell@gmail.com

___________________________

Sizes & cost (Price for gold options varies and will be dependent on the time of the order)

1 3/4" = $175

3/4" = $100

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Yeti Tumbler Fundraiser

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:11:01 GMT

Get your Christmas shopping started and support our church community! Looking for a stylish Christmas gift that keeps coffee hot or water cold? The Invite, Welcome, Connect (IWC) fundraiser has you covered with a 20-ounce navy Yeti tumbler, with lid, for $40 each . Every purchase helps raise funds to buy new tablecloths for receptions and church events. You can order yours now through November 24th .

ORDER HERE , and then pay through Realm (choose "IWC Tumbler Sales" in the dropdown) or by check. Payment has to be received before Nov. 24 for your order to be initiated.

Questions? Contact Marisa Mitchell, mitchellmarisa614@gmail.com

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Seeing

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:01:41 GMT

"Seeing"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

November 10, 2024

He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty…”

What can we say about this poor widow and the offering she made? How are we to interpret this small story in Mark’s Gospel?

Well, there seem to be two popular ways for preachers to interpret the story. One is the interpretation that the destitute widow is an ideal symbol for Christian generosity.

I fear that this interpretation may very well be strongly influenced by the time in which this story appears during the church year. And, I don’t mean near the end of the liturgical season after Pentecost, but rather during the part of the year called “stewardship season” for many churches. Now, I admit that this interpretation doesn’t feel quite right to me.

First, Jesus doesn’t appear to praise this widow, but rather simply describes what she is doing. Second, to suggest that we all emulate this widow in our giving is probably unrealistic (even for a preacher to ask) because it is unlikely that any of us will give every penny we have. In the end, using this widow as our model may simply serve to condemn us if we don’t give our all, rather than to inspire us to do more.

Let me say that I am not criticizing preachers who interpret the story with the widow as a model for sacrificial giving. It just doesn’t seem right to me .

A second interpretation shifts the focus from the poor widow a bit to the scribes, who Jesus discusses at the beginning of our reading for today.

As Jesus taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! They devour widows’ houses…”

Here Jesus indicts religious leaders, the scribes, who oppress the poor, who “devour widow’s houses.” In this second interpretation, we could say that the scribes should be caring for the poor widow, instead of taking all she has given in the offering box. Perhaps we might go so far as to say that the religious leaders shouldn’t even accept this poor widow’s offering. Indeed, Jesus might say that the widow is giving too much .

Well, I may think this interpretation fits the scriptural context better, but it still doesn’t feel quite right to me. Because, in the story of the poor widow, Jesus doesn’t condemn the rich for their large gifts, necessarily direct his comment about giving to the religious leaders, or praise the widow for the gift of all she has. Once again, he simply describes what they are doing.

But, this second possible interpretation doesn’t feel quite right, quite true to me either.

Working on this sermon has been one of many times when I have experienced a sense of wrestling a text into submission.

And then…and then…

I read a commentary, written by one of my favorite preachers, that included “another way of hearing this (story).” This is what he wrote -

What if Jesus isn’t using her (the widow) as an object lesson; what if Mark isn’t trying to derive from her story a theological argument. Perhaps the narrative point on which this passage turns isn’t the comparisons between her and others, or between her offering and that of others, but rather centers on the… fact that Jesus notices her… whatever it is that he wants his disciples to learn from her, perhaps the first lesson is simply to notice her. To see her. To acknowledge her person, her being, her plight, and her offering. She is not, in the end, an object lesson, but a person. Easily unseen, even invisible, yet worthy of Jesus’ attention, and ours.

And, there it was. That was the interpretation that felt right and true to me.

The first parish I served after seminary was St. Anne’s in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Lee’s Summit is a city founded in the late 1800s, which is now a large, thriving suburb of the Kansas City Metro area. It is the home to two hospitals, a very large retirement community, and a community college.

St. Anne’s was a parish founded in the 1990s. When I arrived, it had an average Sunday attendance of around 60, and a very large debt.

As a young (young in years since my ordination, not young in the number of birthdays I had celebrated), young, enthusiastic priest, I was excited when I heard about a possible outreach opportunity for St. Anne’s. It was a program in which we could partner with the food bank in the area, Harvesters, to provide food to food insecure children on week-ends – when they didn’t have free breakfasts and lunches at school. It was called BackSnack and looked much like what Homewood Helps does here.

It wouldn’t cost us anything but time and effort – just the kind of outreach a small church with a big debt needed. Harvesters would deliver to the food to St. Anne’s. We only had to put the food in backpacks, deliver the backpacks to a school on Friday, pick up empty backpacks on Monday, clean them, and repeat. Perfect, I thought.

So, I excitedly presented my brilliant idea to the Vestry. All we needed was a Title One school in Lee’s Summit with which to partner. (Simplified definition: Title One schools have a certain percentage of needy students, typically measured by the percent of students who are eligible for free and reduced lunches.)

At that meeting, every member of our Vestry looked at me and said – sounds great, but we don’t have any Title One Schools in Lee’s Summit. I quickly replied – well, that may be the case, but can I do a little research? (Let me say that perhaps I should have done more research before my presentation, but any way...a lesson re-learned)

Lo and behold, after doing my research, I found that there was a Title One elementary school just a few miles dowm the street from St. Anne’s. Parishioners at St. Anne’s have been packing Backsnack bags for children in that school weekly for well over a decade now.

I don’t know about you, but many times I, am like that Vestry. I don’t see those around me because of my lack of knowledge, my ignorance, and not because of any sort of bad intention. But, with a bit more knowledge, that church’s awareness grew and they saw a specific group of hungry children in their community. And, with seeing, they have paid attention to their needs. I hope and pray I can be like them when my awareness needs to be sharpened.

Now, I don’t know about you, but at times it isn’t lack of knowledge that keeps me from seeing others, no, many times I simply refuse to see others or at least I don’t try very hard to see them. Perhaps seeing them will make me uncomfortable, and I don’t like feeling uncomfortable. Or I refuse to see others, because I am afraid of them, and I don’t like being afraid.

Or I refuse to see others, because I don’t agree with them and I think they don’t agree with me and, thank you very much, but it’s just better not to truly see them and get too close. Or perhaps most sadly I refuse to see others because of my own arrogance. I assume I know everything that I need to know about a person or group already. Why do I need to see them more deeply?

The example of Jesus seeing this poor widow in the Temple, perhaps not seen or noticed or seen by anyone else that day, calls me, calls us to see others. It sounds so simple; yet, so many in our world. deeply need that simple gift of being seen.

I believe Jesus summons us to consciously put ourselves in situations where we can get close enough to people and groups that we can truly see them. Even when we are uncomfortable or afraid or think we know everything already. Not to make them “causes” or object lessons, but to see them as children of God, human beings worthy or our attention, our understanding, and our love.

Who are we not seeing as we go about our daily lives? Who have we forgotten, ignored, or overlooked, that Jesus invites us to notice, to recognize, and to honor?

Jesus sees them, and Jesus calls us to see them, as well. Paraphrasing St. Teresa of Avila, we are the eyes through which Jesus looks with compassion on this world that he created and loves so dearly. May we open both our physical and spiritual eyes and see.

Amen.

Advent Formation Offering in December

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:42:04 GMT

Beginning on the first Sunday of Advent, December 1st, we invite you to join our Advent Formation offering titled "Advent When We Need it Most: A Call for Reconciliation." This series will be held each Sunday in the Great Hall at 9:45am and Monday evenings at 6:00pm in Jackson-Thorpe room. Both times will be throughout Advent.

Advent is a season for reflecting on our need for God's saving grace in our world. Together, we’ll explore the importance of reconciliation at a time when our country is deeply divided. The discussion will be facilitated by the Rev. Ranie Neislar. We look forward to sharing this meaningful journey with you.

Full curriculum is below:

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Death Penalty Discussion Nov. 17

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:08:00 GMT

Please join us, Sunday, November 17, 4:00pm -5:00pm , here at All Saints, for a personal perspective on the death penalty, illustrated through the story of a man currently on Alabama’s death row, Rocky Myers. This is presented by the Alabama Post-Conviction Relief Project (APCRP), an after-service program offering insights into the journey toward justice and how the faith community can support clemency efforts. To learn more about APCRP, please see: https://www.alapcrp.org/

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

God's Saints

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 22:02:24 GMT

"God's Saints"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

November 3, 2024

We hold on to the promise that God will wipe away every tear from our eyes. That in these children, as in our larger body of Christ, we are already beginning to experience the new life of this new creation, and that the dwelling of God is not so far off in the future, but that God has come to dwell with us, within us. Know that God has come here to be with his saints, the brand new baptized saints of today. The saints that are in the rest of our lives. In the saints who have gone on before. God's dwelling is with us, in God's saints.

A Service of Remembrance

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 20:00:21 GMT

All Saints will have a Service of Remembrance Wednesday, November 6 after dinner at 6:00pm . This is a Eucharist service of prayer and silence, light and music to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have died. At the service, you may bring a photo of your loved one for the altar and/or light a candle for them. You are invited to submit names to be read during the service, especially those who have died in the past year. To do so, please email: office@allsaintsbhm.org

Our nursery is only available upon request for this event. Reach out to Jennifer Cupps if you need this service, jcupps@allsaintsbhm.org

Jesus Can Open Your Eyes

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:51:48 GMT

"Jesus Can Open Your Eyes"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

October 27, 2024

We shouldn't and can't sell ourselves short and live into the promise of this scarcity culture. God created us to run and to see and to hear and feel and experience life to the fullest. And this promise is often most realized in the bonds of Christian fellowship. Places like here. No matter the season of life you are in, your highs or your lows. Invest in All Saints. Remember the vulnerability of Bartimaeus and open yourself up to experience the faith life made possible through the cords of mercy that are the bonds of wonderful, rich community.

Brick Dedication THIS Sunday!

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:39:23 GMT

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Brick by Brick campaign! Your generosity has made a big impact in reducing our debt. Join us this Sunday by the new brick walkway for a dedication following the 11am service.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Daily Prayers for Our Election

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:39:48 GMT

We are counting down to this year's Election Day with daily prayers. Join us in seeking God's wisdom for this crucial decision.

November 3

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us
through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole
human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which
infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and
confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in
your good time, all nations and races may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen. (From the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer)

November 2

Good and Gracious God, be with us and our nation on election day and throughout the election process. Guide our actions, that good and faithful leaders may be raised up to serve our nation and communities justly. Protect our communities from acts of violence. Provide peace of mind to all who are anxious. Bring comfort to all who are stressed and hope to those who are fearful.

Grant that your holy and life-giving Spirit may move every human heart to be kind; that the barriers dividing our nation may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatred cease. Help us to put our trust in you and give us wisdom, strength, and courage to be living examples of your love, today and every day. In Jesus’ name we pray. — Amen
From the Grand Canyon Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America)

November 1 Prayer

Most merciful God, whose son Jesus Christ taught us to love and to serve, may we be guided by Your Holy Spirit in this time of decision for our nation. Help us to remember that there are so many around the world who do not have this freedom, and remember too the lives lost to fight for our right to vote here in this democratic republic we call home. Grant us wisdom in our discernment as we choose our leaders, and the grace to accept the results with humility – win or lose. And once the election is decided, give us all the strength and compassion to work to heal this divided nation, that we may be empowered in common purpose to work toward the noble ideals that are the foundation of our republic, and that we may together love and serve the least of these. All this we ask in Your name. Amen. (From Christ Episcopal Church, Bloomfield and Glen Ridge, New Jersey)

October 31 Prayer

Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide the people of the United States in the election of our president and other officials and representatives; that, by faithful administration and wise laws, the rights of
all may be protected and our nation be enabled to fulfill your purposes; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (From the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer)

October 30 Prayer

Everlasting God, source of all liberty, before whom every earthly ruler must bow and bend the knee, we lay our nation before you as we prepare for an election. Breathe upon us your Spirit of wisdom and discernment. Grant all who seek public office the mind of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life for the freedom of the oppressed. Hold before us those who face uncertain futures, or who have no voice in our political process. Uphold and safeguard poll workers and election officials in their work. Spare us from the crushing weight of cynicism. Give us grace to speak courageously, but with love, without which our words are noise and we are nothing. Gather us together under the cross, where, in all of our difference, we can stand as one people, redeemed in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
(From the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America)

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

What You Pay Attention to Grows

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:31:38 GMT

"What You Pay Attention to Grows"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 20, 2024

What we pay attention to grows. Whatever we spend most of our waking hours thinking about, occupying our mental and emotional state, tends to be about all that we can see out in life. The cup of Jesus in life is offered to us. The cup of his suffering, the cup of his life, his death, his resurrection, the baptism into the death of Christ. That we may live in the fullness of Christ's resurrection.

Choose Your Own Adventure

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 17:49:03 GMT

"Choose Your Own Adventure"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 6, 2024

It should come as no surprise to us that we sometimes fail to be who we are created to be. But the love of God is not limited or dependent on us having to keeping it all together. And the love of God is not always about me, right? It is about being in relationship. Is there something that we deserve? We are in grace. The gospel of Jesus loves because God has created us to love. Whether it be illness, disease, or risk of death or divorce, there is pain and suffering in this life. But that is not all there is. As we choose new adventures of forgiveness and love, it's up to us.

Our Story as a Community of Faith

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 19:22:11 GMT

"Our Story as a Community of Faith"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

September 29, 2024

We need to be reminded of our past, what we have lived through, through, what we have persevered through, what we are made of, to get where we are. We need to remember who we were 30, 40, ten years ago. The past narrative has been full of riches, incredibly full moments, seasons of growth. And yet, as much as that is so important to who we are today, we are no longer there. We are here. We sit firmly in 2024 and the days are becoming cooler and we continue to be faithful followers. But what that looks like depends on how we want to invest our wisdom and in our community. My prayer is that the Lord puts His Spirit upon us, that we may be faithful witnesses to the formation of our story as a community of faith.

The Diocese Designates All Saints as a Drop-Off Donation Site

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 02:30:20 GMT

Bishop Glenda Curry spoke with fellow bishops from the Dioceses of Western North Carolina, Georgia, and parts of Florida. All of them have suffered losses of life and damage to churches, communications struggles, and lack of power due to the recent hurricane.

One of the hardest hit areas is Western North Carolina. Their bishop has asked that donations of supplies and money be coordinated from a single point in our diocesan office so that we can most effectively reach the greatest needs.

All Saints was designated as one of the collection sites for donated supplies. The diocese will make sure supplies are then transported to Western North Carolina or other places in need.

Needed supplies

*Drop-off at All Saints in the Great Hall. Please only donate what is listed below:

Non-perishable food including ready-to-eat, pop-top canned food, peanut butter
Diapers of all sizes
Baby wipes
Cleaning supplies such as Bleach, and Lysol
Mini Bar Soap
New wool blankets
Feminine products
Duct tape

____________________________

You can also drop items off at these locations:

Carpenter House

521 20th Street North

Birmingham, AL 35203

St. John’s

113 Madison Avenue

Montgomery, AL 36104

St. Matthew’s

786 Hughes Road

Madison, AL 35758

Christ Church

605 Lurleen B Wallace N Blvd

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Please consider a financial gift via check or online donation. For checks, include “disaster relief” in the memo. Click here or use the button below to make a secure online donation. Choose “disaster relief” from the drop-down menu. Money collected by our diocese will be forwarded directly to bishops in affected areas.

Bishop G asks for your prayers for those across the Southeast affected by this storm. If you need more information contact our diocesan disaster relief coordinator, Bob Whelan, rwhelan@whelancompany.net

*Choose "Disaster Relief" in the drop down

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Nov. 17: Adult Choir Presents Josef Rheinberger Mass in C major

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 19:01:10 GMT

The Adult Choir, along with a string orchestra and soloists, is offering Josef Rheinberger’s Mass in C major, Sunday, November 17 at the 11:00am service . The various parts of the Mass will be embedded in our usual Sunday morning Service of Holy Eucharist. Come hear this beautiful and inspiring music as we worship together!

Melanie Couch, conductor
with
Adreanna Pulliam, soprano
Abigail Williams, mezzo-soprano
Micah Pounds, tenor
David Smith, baritone

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Thank You for Your Support-Hurricane Helene Relief

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 03:17:25 GMT

The Rev. David Henson (St. James, Hendersonville) asked if we’d be able to help gather much needed supplies for their recovery. And you answered the call! To everyone who offered financial support to purchase supplies, we’re deeply grateful because your efforts made all the difference to so many in need!

A big thank you to Mark Elwood for providing the planes, to Bob Whelan for providing disaster supplies and to Jeannie Feldman, Amy Stone, and Lorelle Collins who shopped for the critical items needed.

The Episcopal Diocese of Alabama is taking donations for those effected by Hurricane Helene. If you would like to donate find more details HERE.

Dear All Saints parishioners and friends,

I am writing to ask for your help in responding to the catastrophic flooding in Western North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene. On Sunday afternoon I was contacted by my friend and colleague, the Reverend David Henson (St. James, Hendersonville) asking if we’d be able to help gather much needed supplies for their recovery. While they do have funds to be able to purchase supplies, they have nowhere to purchase basic things like food and water, and also chainsaws and generators. I told him that we could buy those things, and would start working straightaway to find a way to deliver them. David and his parishioners are organizing at their church to feed their neighbors and be the hands and feet of Christ to their devastated community.

If you have the means and are so inclined, please consider making a financial gift to the Rector’s Discretionary Fund, which will be used to purchase food, water, generators, and chain saws. You can make a gift with the button above or here and choose "Rector Discretionary Fund": https://onrealm.org/allsaintsbhm/-/form/give/now

These past several weeks we’ve been reading from the Epistle of James, who famously stated that faith without works is dead. I know that our faith is alive and well in how we take care of one another in word and deed. Thank you for your generosity, and please keep all those affected by this storm in your prayers.

Grace & peace,

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Choir School Music Skills Workshop Oct. 27

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 23:39:10 GMT

The next workshop is Sunday, Oct. 27! Join us for a series of workshops designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of music. These sessions offer a welcoming space to explore the foundations of music reading, history, liturgy, and more. Attendance is open to anyone at any age, is free, but RSVP is required. Please send a brief RSVP email to Maggie Gill, Director of Children's and Youth Music Programs, at mgill@allsaintsbhm.org .

Each day, we will focus on a specific topic, tailored to various levels, ensuring that you engage with material suited to your experience and musical ability.

Sunday, September 22, 2024, 1:30 PM - Counting and Conducting

Level: Beginning to Early Intermediate (White to Light Blue Voice for Life® Books)

Description: Learn the basics of rhythm and conducting, focusing on quarter, half, eighth, and whole notes. We'll explore time signatures like 2/4, 4/4, and 3/4, understand how emphasis works within measures, and how to follow a conductor effectively.

Sunday, October 27, 2024, 1:30 PM - Clefs and Pitches

Level: Beginning to Early Intermediate (White to Light Blue Voice for Life® Books)

Description: Dive into the basics of reading music with a focus on the Bass Clef and Treble Clef. Discover how the musical alphabet works, how pitches are notated, easy memory aids, and an introduction to half and whole steps.

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 1:30 PM - The Sounds of Our Voice

Level: Intermediate to Early Advanced (Dark Blue to Red Voice for Life® Books)

Description: Enhance your vocal skills by understanding how vowels and consonants shape sound. This session will cover diction, sound manipulation, and the vocal anatomy involved in producing clear and resonant singing.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Narthex Renovation

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 17:49:48 GMT

As you may have already heard, we are beginning a project to open up our narthex space (between the Nave and doors) and improve the lighting there, with the goal of making it more inviting and welcoming. This is basically a refresh of the space, which has not been updated in more than thirty years. Work will include removal of the built-in cabinet and enhancement of the lighting, The wall color and finish will remain the same. Flooring will remain the same; we already have the tile that will be needed, left over from the original installation. The ceiling tile will be replaced with a flat, coffered ceiling much like the ceiling in the chapel.

Funding has come from contributions explicitly designated for this project. This is not being funded from the annual operating budget.

Work will be done by ELM Construction (owned by parishioner Elliott Pike) and is scheduled to begin September 30 and be completed in November. Access to the front doors and narthex on Sundays and other service times (e.g., weddings) should not be affected by construction.

Renderings are available to review in the Office Foyer. Individuals will be available to answer questions after each worship service on Sunday, September 29 . Questions may also be directed to Andrew Edwards, bhamedwards1@charter.net .

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

When We Talk About Death, We Talk About Life

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 19:03:36 GMT

"When We Talk About Death, We Talk About Life"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

September 22, 2024

Oftentimes, I find that we can be so afraid. Sometimes we can feel so alone, and sometimes it's hard to figure out whether we're more afraid to live or more afraid to die. But it is the unknown. It is the uncontrollable that we so often fear. We try to counter this fear with false bravado, arguing like the disciples about who is best, who is bigger, who is greater, who has more money, who has the greater degrees. We try to protect ourselves with policies and insurance or security systems or other privileges. But this false bravado does nothing to protect us from the real unknowns of life. If we listen to Jesus long enough, we must listen to him talk about death, his death, and ours. And let us not fear. For in talking about death, Jesus is talking about life, his life and ours. And so, my friends, what are we talking about?

Bad Words, Good Words

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 18:35:02 GMT

"Bad Words, Good Words"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

September 15, 2024

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to talk with members of the Girl’s Club at a local after school program. I had been invited there to tell them about one of my heroes - Frances Perkins, the first female member of a President’s Cabinet, who served as Secretary of Labor under President Roosevelt and who was the principal architect of the New Deal.

Frances had been touched deeply by the poor working conditions in American workplaces, especially involving women and children. She had literally watched young women jump to their deaths in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in New York City. Young immigrant women who had been locked inside their workplace by their employers and couldn’t escape the heat of the fire any other way than by jumping from the building.

Frances was determined to spend her life making things better for workers.

After I talked about my hero Frances Perkins, I asked the young women about their heroes, who they were, what their heroes had seen that was wrong in the world, and how they had worked to change it. And then, I asked these young women what they saw that was wrong in the world, what moved them to want to change things.

They had some great answers - pets who are abused, people who don’t have homes, people who don’t have enough to eat.

And, then one young woman said, “Bad words.” As we talked, she made it clear that she wasn’t talking about what we might call “swear words.” She was talking about words that hurt and harm others, and she wanted to do something about that. I have to say that I was impressed by her answer and by her passion.

I think the author of our Epistle reading today would have been impressed, too. James who wrote this letter was likely the brother of Jesus and a leader in the church in Jerusalem.

James knew that words, these powerful things produced by our tongues, can be hurtful and harmful and powerful.

James gave us a preview of his thoughts about the words that come off our tongues back in Chapter One of the Letter.

You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak…

If any think they are religious, and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless.

In today’s epistle reading, James comes back to the topic of words and begins the discussion by focusing on teachers – those whose vocation is based on their tongues, those who are given some authority and who spend a great deal of time talking in front of others.

As someone who has spent my adult life teaching and preaching, I understand why he began there, because those of us who use our tongues a lot know full well how dangerous our tongues and our words can be.

Our tongues can get us into trouble even when we don’t intend for that to happen. It is easy to make mistakes, big mistakes, and when you are a teacher (or a preacher) those mistakes can be oh so very obvious and oh so very dangerous.

Mistakes that are only exacerbated by the authority that is given to these positions. Our mistakes can get passed onto others, and that is indeed frightening.

It’s enough to make me want to suggest that we just stop right here, end the sermon now, and take some time in silent prayer. That might be safer for all of us.

But, I am a preacher, so we’ll go on.

You see, even though James began by speaking to teachers, I think his comments about the tongue were intended for a wider audience. I think James’ intended audience here was all Christians, because these tongues of ours and the words we produce with them can be dangerous, and that is true for all of us.

I think James’ words are as relevant for us today as they were when he wrote them in the first century. They may be even more relevant for us today – in a culture where our language seems to have become coarse, loud, unthoughtful, rude, and even at times downright hurtful and wrong.

Where “this is America, I can say what I want” and “I’m just telling you what I think” can justify using our tongues to give sound to every thought or feeling that passes through our heads the very moment we think it.

Where words that were once to be kept out of polite company now seem to be heard just about everywhere from just about everyone – including Christians who claim Christ’s name but whose words are contrary to what Christ expects.

Now, many of God’s creatures have tongues. My sweet dog Maisie has a tongue. But, her tongue just doesn’t seem to be as much of a problem for her as mine is for me.

Our human tongues are a special problem because they enable us to express our thoughts through spoken language. And, language has the capacity to create reality.

I think what James knew was that our tongues can be used to create God’s reality or to create the world’s reality. Our tongues can be used to bless, to build up, to inspire, to express love and care. Or, they can be used to curse, to hurt, to make people feel like less than the images of God that they truly are. In the words of that young woman I mentioned, our tongues can be used to produce “bad words.”

James knew that the words produced by our human tongues cannot be taken back. Once they come off our tongues, they are set loose in the world. To create wildfires of goodness that can enliven, inspire, and empower or to create wildfires of evil that create chaos, pain, and destruction.

Most of all, I think James knew that none of us can perfectly control our tongues. These small parts of our bodies contain extreme amounts of power, and they cannot be tamed.

For all of us make many mistakes.

Yes, that is the sad truth of our human condition.

But, thanks be to God, in the times when we make mistakes, when others make mistakes, our tongues can be special sources of blessing. The blessing found in apologizing and requesting forgiveness from God and from those who we have affected by our mistakes. The blessing of offering our personal forgiveness and assuring God’s forgiveness to those who have injured us.

James knew that we Christians have great power in the tongues God has given us. And, he instructs us to use them to create God’s reality. The reality of love, friendship, reconciliation, and forgiveness – a reality that our world so very desperately needs.

Now, I began this sermon with one of my heroes, Frances Perkins. And, I want to end it with another of my heroes. You may recognize his name; he was Father Mychal Judge, and he died 23 years ago this past week on 9/11.

Father Mychal was a Franciscan friar and Catholic priest who served as a chaplain to the NYC Fire Department. He died in the North Tower of the World Trade Center, as he prayed for the rescuers, the injured, and the dead and as he prayed for God to end the horror that was occurring.

I mention him here today because I believe that a prayer attributed to Father Mychal can help us control our tongues and offer good words instead of bad words.

“Lord, take me where You want me to go
Let me meet who You want me to meet
Tell me what You want me to say and
Keep me out of your way.”

— Fr Mychal Judge

AMEN.

Bed Build Oct. 5 for Homewood Helps

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 14:33:11 GMT

You MUST sign up to participate

Homewood Helps is offering a chance to serve others! On October 5, from 8:00am to 12:00pm, a special 'Build Day' will take place in the Homewood Middle School parking lot. Volunteers from all over our community will build 60 beds for children in our area. These provide a basic need for the proper physical, emotional, and mental support that a child needs.

No experience is necessary—just bring a smile! All tools and instructions will be provided. Starting with a stack of lumber, participants will move wood through various stations (sanding, hammering, drilling, branding, and staining) to create bed parts. These parts will later be assembled in children's homes to ensure they have a safe and comfortable bed.

Be sure to wear those "Team All Saints" shirts!

You MUST sign up to participate, you can do that up HERE or use the button. For more info connect with Alexa McElroy, alexa@ewbullock.com

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Do I Belong Here?

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 18:44:58 GMT

"Do I Belong Here?"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

September 8, 2024

Do I belong here? Do you really belong here? And how would we know whether or not we truly belong? The way things are out in the world are not how things are meant to operate here in the body of Christ. You are not judged according to how much money you make, how much you can contribute but by who God has created you to be. And so miracles happen when we realize that the Kingdom of God is here, breaking into our very midst. This is the Spirit of God working in and amongst us, that you are already on the team. Don't try to show up as a linebacker. If you're a kicker, don't try to be someone you're not. We need you to show up as God has truly created you to be. All of us together expecting miracles.

All Saints Book Club

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:30:50 GMT

Do you love to read? All Saints Book Club meets on a monthly basis to discuss a selection of the group’s choosing. The group takes turns meeting at parishioner's homes for fellowship and discussion.

The next meeting will be Sunday, September 22, 3:00pm , at the home of Lynn Hendricks. They will be discussing the book, HORSE by Geraldine Brooks.

If you are interested in learning more about this club, connect with Lynn Hendricks, lvhend@mindspring.com .

Brew Crew

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 18:00:54 GMT

Brew Crew meets Thursday, October 3, 7:00pm at Cahaba Brewing (4500 5th Ave South Building C). Join this gathering of All Saints parishioners for fellowship and fun in a relaxed environment. While all are invited to responsibly imbibe a brew or two, we will also enjoy a theological topic for conversation! No advanced notice needed, feel free to just show up.

Coffee & Connect

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 15:50:33 GMT

This Sunday, is "Coffee and Connect"! Join us at 9:45am in the Great Hall. All newcomers, new members, or anyone interested in learning more about All Saints is invited to join us. If you have questions, please contact the Rev. Cindy Carter, ccarter@allsaintsbhm.org

This is also "Name Tag Sunday", which allows us to wear name tags so we can get to know each other!

Level 1 Asst. Catechist Training Oct. 6

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 18:51:48 GMT

We will offer Level I Assistant Catechist Training Sunday, October 6, 2:00pm-4:00pm. Adults and youth (7th grade & up) are welcome to come learn how to assist in the level I atrium or learn more about what goes on in that beautiful space. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Please contact Kathleen Busbee, kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org if you plan to participate.

Work Together, Expect Miracles

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 19:59:51 GMT

"Work Together, Expect Miracles"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

August 25, 2024

The gospel readings for the four Sundays in August have all come from what is many times called “The Bread of Life Discourse,” a talk Jesus delivered in the synagogue at Capernaum. Because John’s Gospel does not include an account of the blessing of the bread during the Last Supper, this talk, which takes up much of John, Chapter 6, has often been interpreted as a communication of Jesus’ teachings about the Eucharist.

But, today I want to go back for a moment to the story that we read right before this Bread of Life Discourse. It begins Chapter 6 of John’s Gospel, and we read it this year on the last Sunday of July. It was a story about a whole lot of hungry people who had come to hear Jesus preach. One of Jesus’ disciples, Philip, realized that the crowd would need something to eat but he also realized that the disciples had nowhere near enough money to get lunch for these people.

Then, another disciple, Andrew, said – Wait a minute! There’s a little boy here with two fish and five barley loaves. But, how will that ever be enough to feed all these people? (pause) But…

We know the rest of the story. Jesus asked the hungry folks to sit down, he thanked God, he passed out lunch, everyone ate all they wanted, and the disciples picked up all the leftovers. Way more leftovers than what the little boy had shared.

(Pause)

And, it all began with two fish and five barley loaves.

My story this morning begins in September 2012, not with fish and loaves, but with thirty-five bags of rice and beans.

I had arrived as the new rector at St. Mary’s Church in Andalusia in the summer of 2011. Somewhere I had either read or heard that it was a good idea for churches to have a “signature” outreach ministry – an outreach effort which would identify, or define, the parish. So, not long after I arrived, we began having meetings for anyone who was interested to talk about an outreach ministry like this.

It soon became clear that for St. Mary’s the outreach effort had be about food. St. Mary’s had a reputation for good cooks, second Sunday potlucks, an fund-raiser – a Cajun “feast” that sold out every year, plus home-cooked Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for the community. It had to be about food.

And, we agreed we didn’t need to recreate the wheel. I had heard an idea from my friend Bill King, an idea about something called a rice and beans ministry. We decided that our Rice and Beans Ministry would be open to all, no questions asked or i.d. required, on the third Saturday morning of each month.

So, in September 2012, with those thirty-five bags each containing 3 lbs. of rice and 2 lbs. of beans, a sign outside the church, and an announcement on a local radio station, we began.

About a week before we opened for the first time, I encountered a local elected official, who questioned whether there were people poor enough and hungry enough in our community to come for a bag of rice and beans. My answer to this official was, “We’ll see.”

It was simple and pretty small. But, people did come.

A few months later, a simple “to go” breakfast was added then soon “enhanced.” Breakfast became a sit-down affair with decorated tables and take outs, too – usually something like scrambled eggs with cheese, sausage, a biscuit, cheese grits, fresh fruit.

Over time, additional food items to give away were added - a bag of non-perishable groceries and a loaf of bread, plus the rice and beans. And, other groups around town wanted to get involved. A high school club (Saturday mornings and food drive), LDS missionaries (volunteers), the local humane society (repackaged pet food from broken bags), a community college service club (coat and blanket drive), the Imagination Library in the county (books that were returned).

Of course, growth meant we needed more money. In 2014, we held the first St. Mary’s Annual 5K and Fun Run for Rice and Beans. Race sponsorships from local businesses and organizations became our major funding source.

There was also another kind of growth - another church in our diocese began a similar ministry, and the Presbyterian Church in town began offering one lunch and one breakfast each month. We shared what we had learned with them, although their ministries were unique to them.

Always, from the beginning, at our Rice and Beans Ministry, we had a small re-purposed sewing box and a stack of note cards at the door so our guests could drop in anonymous prayer requests. Each of those requests was given to a parishioner the following day at church and that parishioner committed to pray for the request in the following month.

Before Covid, most Saturdays we gave over 100 units (rice, beans, bread, non-perishables) food to take home and served around 200 breakfasts. Of course, there were modifications during covid and things are now back “to normal” again.

The Bread of Life. It is food that feeds our souls; and we most often think of it as what we receive as we come to this table. We meet Jesus here in a real way, as the bread to distributed.

But, at our Rice and Beans Ministry, we found that we also met Jesus in a real way in the kitchen cooking breakfast for people, handing them a loaf of bread and a bag of food to take home, even putting on a community race to raise money. We experienced all the challenges and rewards that come any time we get close to Jesus and the work that Jesus gives us to do.

We were fed the bread of life as we made relationships with our guests and as we prayed for them.

The author and preacher Barbara Brown Taylor has written about finding “Altars in the World” and writes beautifully about the altar we find when we encounter others and build community in the practice of service. At St. Mary’s, we found an altar in our parish hall and around plastic tables.

Miracles happened there at that altar, just as they happen at this altar. You may have heard me speak about the miraculous journey of forgiveness that my friend Debra began as she handed a plate of scrambled eggs to the mother of the man who had murdered her father.

We saw a miracle unfold in the life of a woman named Dawn who first came as one of our guests, but then became a member of our congregation, joined the choir, was confirmed, and became a dedicated volunteer at our Rice and Beans Ministry (a volunteer who still picked up her food to take home). Dawn was in, what we came to learn, was an abusive relationship; it was the people she met at St. Mary’s who helped her get to a safe place and free from that relationship. That was a whole series of miracles.

And, we experienced the miracle of community – working together in the parish, working with others in the larger community, and seeing the friendships that formed around those tables on Saturday mornings (e.g., birthday parties).

This morning here at All Saints, we welcome four new souls (Meredith, Emerson, Miller, Rosie) to this table, as the water of baptism is poured over their sweet heads. We welcome them to share the bread of life with us at this altar and at all the other altars in the world where they will meet Jesus. Altars where miracles will happen and community will be built.

You may have already noticed or you will notice soon I hope, a phrase here at All Saints. Work together, expect miracles. Work together, expect miracles.

I love that phrase. And, I believe it, because I’ve seen it.

AMEN.

I Need God's Love

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 21:03:37 GMT

"I Need God's Love"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

August 18, 2024

I don't know about you, but I need God's love. I need God's presence to be more than just a thought or an idea or a concept. I need God's love to be in-fleshed. I need it to have some skin and bones. I need to know that it's not just the bread that will make me hungry again, but it is a bread that will sustain that deepest hunger in my soul. Jesus is drawing us deeper. You are the body of Christ. You are the blood of Christ. To go out into the world, to embody that invitation, to go deeper into God's love for the world.

Episcopal Day at the Ballpark

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:07:46 GMT

All Saints! Let's represent at Episcopal Day @ the Park! Join us for a fun-filled day as we support the Equipping the Saints capital campaign. Plus, watch Bishop Curry throw out the first pitch! Show your parish pride, cheer on your favorite team, and enjoy fellowship with the diocesan community. Tickets are just $15—grab yours now!

More details: https://www.dioala.org/event-details-id19/?id=34

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Choir School Kickoff Aug. 28

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 18:34:19 GMT

Exciting music news! Though our individual choirs are not changing, we are advancing our Children's and Youth Choir Program under a new title as the All Saints Choir School. The choirs within the All Saints Choir School are now affiliate members of the Royal School of Church Music in America (RSCM). We have a fabulous year planned, and we hope you will join us! For more information connect with Maggie Gill, Director of Children’s and Youth Music, at mgill@allsaintsbhm.org .

Choir School Kick-Off

August 28, 2024 at 6:00pm in the Great Hall

Kids and parents for Good Shepherd Choir, Children's Choir, and Youth Choir gather for pizza, musical BINGO, and prizes! Parents will have a brief orientation during festivities.

Choir Rehearsals start back

September 4, 2024 in the Children's Choir Room

Good Shepherd Choir: 5:15pm-5:55pm, Wednesdays

Children's Choir: 6:00pm-6:45pm, Wednesdays

Youth Choir: 6:30pm-7:30pm, Wednesdays

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Adult Choir is Looking for New Singers

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 17:55:43 GMT

The Adult Choir is looking for new singers! They kick off the choir year with choir camp at Camp McDowell from Aug. 23-25. This coincides with the 'Parish Weekend,' so it's a great time to get involved. Rehearsals start on August 28, 6:30pm-8:30pm . If you're interested in learning more about this fun and fulfilling ministry, please connect with Melanie Couch at mcouch@allsaintsbhm.org .

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

I Am the Bread of Life

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 21:21:32 GMT

"I am the Bread of Life"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

August 11, 2024

You can take the bread that you have been fed with and begin to extend it to others in need to fulfill that image of heaven. Taste and see that the Lord is good. The feast that you and I are called to here at this table, the feast that we are then called to go and take with us into the world, is not some idea or thought or second or third hand experience, where we're depending on someone else's, say it is an invitation to come by yourself, to come one by one, and know for yourself that those deepest longings of your heart that Jesus says to you, I am the bread of life.

Cub Scout Kickoff

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 15:34:08 GMT

Cub Scout Pack 279 is offering fall registration this Sunday August 18th, 3:3 0pm-5:00pm at All Saints . Boys & girls, kindergarten – 5th grade, are invited to be a part of this troop. For more information, contact Jim Wooten, jmwooten3162@gmail.com .

You've Already Made the Team

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 18:07:32 GMT

"You've Already Made the Team"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

August 4, 2024

In a little over a month, we are going to gather together for something we have started calling Game Day… it comes around the same time as a ministry fair, some aspects of it may seem like a ministry fair… but the goal is not necessarily to get you signed up for something. If you want to sign up for something, great… do that, of course we want you to feel out a way to become invested here at All Saints and if you find that opportunity and your heart gravitates to the choir, or youth formation, or involvement in pastoral care--- we will be so thrilled to get you involved! But the more I’ve been thinking about our upcoming All Saints Game Day, the more I’ve started to think about tailgating. If you are from the south, and have in some way or another witnessed tailgating or heard about tailgating during college football season, then you know, it is quite the event… for the most part it is ABSOLUTLY about fellowship, food, drinks, maybe some yard games… and, if you are a real enthusiast you talk about the season, you talk about the team… how does the team look… where are our strengths, our weaknesses… what does the coach bring this year… maybe we aren’t perfect commentators with an expert pedigree but we all have our own perspectives, our hopes for what the team will bring to the season. But in the month of August, what we might call an entire month of tailgating as we make our way to All Saints Game Day, there is a different commentary going on. We have the opportunity to begin discussing our next season of sorts, a time for considering our individual skills, because for this program year, this season, we are not merely called to be fans, people on the sideline or in the stadiums, doing a little commentary on our favorite team, we are part of the team… we are on the roster, and if on the roster, a part of this community in an entirely different way than a mere fan. One part of being a disciple is embracing your skills as one… we were not created to sit on the sideline. Each one of you lives a big life—there are no small parts, small skills, or small lives. Each one of you sitting here today has received a big gift in some shape or fashion and we are called to exercise that big gift in our lives. In the letter to the Ephesians, we hear that each of us has been uniquely gifted: “The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, ¹² to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,” First, it is very comforting to know we don’t have to check our individuality at the door in order to live out our faith lives. Great. So, if we continue to grapple with the reality that we are each unique and have been gifted uniquely with the gift to serve in our community it is really important to figure out our uniqueness. For example, I know a parishioner that is really invested in the care of individuals during major life transitions—whether it is an exciting time in their lives or a loss, this person is deeply committed to communicating and tending to individuals or families as they face life changes. This tending to is what many of us call pastoral care, and this care is done in a very specific way by the clergy, but is not limited to the clergy—so many of us are invited into this aspect of being present to others as they navigate this life, and for some in this community they are uniquely equipped to be pastoral. Maybe you are hearing this for the first time and you feel something… anything, maybe you can’t put your finger on it, but if you feel stirred in any such way, this is a great time to discern about what our All Saints roster looks like and where your skills may best serve our community. That is one example and I’ve spent quite a few hours looking through the various and diverse active ministries we have in our community. So many ministries, in fact, that I can see that it might be a little overwhelming to figure out where to jump in--- there are some obvious ones, like being a lector, someone who reads our scripture on Sunday’s, or participating in the choir… but there is so much more that you might not see on a Sunday, so many other opportunities to be a part of this incredible community that is actively reflecting Christ’s ongoing work in the world, and specifically here in Birmingham. There is another huge part of engaging in, and reflecting on your gifts and skills and how they are called to be exercised here in our community: we are a body specifically equipped to do different works in order to be whole and healthy. All Saint’s does not function well without a diversity of gifts reflected in our ministries. I’m going to go back to our lovely sports team analogy again… let’s take a team with a variety of different positions—you have this team and individuals on the team are differently gifted—some are super-fast runners, some are great playmakers, and some, maybe, particularly big people, that really make defense solid. Now, let’s just say that as a team, and some of the coaches, because they can really make it or break it sometimes, we don’t do a great job helping discern individual’s skill and because of that we have no defense, or our defense is made up of some of our fast, but smaller teammates… and we actually have some folks on the team that would make great defenders, but we don’t ask them or help them discern their skills, so we basically have a terrible defense, and because we have a terrible defense we lose all. The. Time. So sad. But, that isn’t the case at All Saints, because we are actively working with all those invested in being on our team, helping them to figure out their skill-set… wondering along with you… how can you best serve and exercise your, God-given talent, if you will. You are here, in this spiritual community because you recognize you have been given a gift, a particular skill, and we want you to use that skill, wherever you are right now, whatever you think of yourself you have something to aid us as a community, seeking to be part of Christ’s work in the world. I would say that August is a month of tryouts, because you’ve already made the team, but it is a time to figure out, to discern, where are you being called? Are you a playmaker with great vision? There is a place for you as we vision together… maybe even, the vestry. Do you want to make people feel at home? There is a spot for you as we do hospitality, and do it well! Take these next few weeks to discern what, not if, you have been skillfully created for here—because this team is making a mark here in our community, and you’ve been set apart to play an important role in our work with each other and God.

Primetime Saints Ice Cream Social

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 17:41:30 GMT

Mark your calendars now for “The annual Ice Cream Social” for PrimeTime Saints on Tuesday, September 17th at 2:00pm . Come enjoy catching up with friends, eating ice cream and playing a round or two of BINGO and hearing a few of our plans for the 2024-2025 year. This is your chance to connect with the community and be part of future happenings. Don't miss out on this delightful afternoon.

Little Free Library

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 16:05:14 GMT

If you like to read and haven’t stopped by our Little Free Library lately, please do, it is a treasure you shouldn't miss!

Located on the sidewalk to the left of the church, it's a home for selections donated by those who love sharing and discovering new reads. Bring anything you have enjoyed and pass it on or find something to take with you for children, teens, and adults.

If you have donations but find the space full, please drop them off in the Parish Office for the Rev. Cindy Carter. Hope you can visit soon!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Atrium Registration

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 14:30:58 GMT

2024 Children's Formation begins Sunday, September 15th

Welcome to Children’s Formation at All Saints Episcopal Church. We look forward to a meaningful year with your family.

Our parish uses a method called Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in a special room called an 'atrium'. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a faith formation experience for children ages 3-12 years old. It is based on the belief that young children can and do experience God. An atrium is an environment created to nurture children’s spirituality. This approach to the religious formation of children is rooted in the Holy Bible, the liturgy of the church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Hands-on materials are used to help children and adults reflect together on the great mysteries of the Christian faith. For more information about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, please visit their website .

You may register up to three children from the same family on the registration form. * Please use a laptop or PC to complete information rather than an iPad or an iPhone. Handheld devices have trouble transmitting registration information.

Level I Atrium orientation will be held for three year olds and any four & five year olds who are new to All Saints. Level I orientation sessions are for new Level I children and their parents. Children must be 3 years old and potty-trained by September 1, 2024 to begin atrium. Please select an orientation session at the bottom of the registration form. If none of these orientation sessions work for your family, please use the contact information to schedule one.

Level I Orientation dates:

Wednesday, August 21, from 6:00pm-7:00pm
Tuesday, August 27, from 6:00pm-7:00pm

Sunday Atrium Sessions:

Level I, II, III: 8:15am-9:15am (Children process into service at Offertory)
Level I: 9:45am-11:30am (Children can be picked up at 10:55 or stay through the 11:00am offertory)
Level II, III: 9:45am-10:55am (Children are picked up when Adult Formation ends)

Please contact Kathleen Busbee ( kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org ) with any questions or concerns.

Flag Retirement Ceremony

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 23:33:10 GMT

Troop 79 of All Saints Episcopal Church is hosting a flag retirement ceremony, and you are invited. Please join the troop on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 6:30pm in the Kings Garden, which is on the side of the Church across from the playground.

This event is open to the public and we invite you to attend and bring a friend. Veterans are especially invited to attend. If you have a United States flag that you wish to be retired, please bring it to the event or preferably to the church office prior to the event.

This is a special opportunity to learn more about proper flag retirement and participate with the All Saints Troop 79 family.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Day by Day Devotionals

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 19:45:53 GMT

The latest Forward Day by Day Devotionals for August, September, and October are now available on the shelves in our reception area. As fall approaches and our schedules fill up, setting aside time for God each day becomes even more crucial.

The Day by Day Devotional offers a simple yet profound way to do this. Start by reading the daily meditation along with the scripture. Reflect on what God and the author convey to you. Respond by sharing your thoughts and checking the Moving Forward suggestions. Pray about what's on your heart. You can find these devotionals on the shelves near the front office, available in both large and regular print.

Make this a part of your daily routine and feel the difference in your spiritual life.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Jesus Wants Us to Take Vacations

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 21:11:03 GMT

"Jesus Wants Us to Take Vacations"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

July 21, 2024

Whenever I see our Gospel reading for today in the lectionary, I am transported back to a time when I preached from this lesson before. It was a sermon I preached from this text at Beckwith, the camp for the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast on Weeks Bay near Fairhope – a sermon preached to a group of sixty second and third graders.

I served in the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast for almost ten years before I retired, and I always loved my time at Beckwith.

Now, if you know me, you know that I am not a fan of big, long meetings. Even multi-day clergy conferences and protracted committee meetings were better if they were at Beckwith.

Most of all, I especially enjoyed the weeks I spent there with children and young people as the camp “dean.” Beckwith is a beautiful, peaceful place, and the children are sweet, at least most of the time. And it was a place where I could do things I didn’t usually get to do.

I recall, even these years later, one of the most fun things I did the week I preached the sermon from this text happened when I intentionally arrived a little early for the camp session, a few hours before the arrival of our campers. The camp seemed deserted, and I saw a water slide that had been left from an event held at the camp earlier in the day

It was still all set up and ready to go. That water slide was just asking for someone to go down it.

So, I ran to my cabin, put on my swim suit, and I made several private trips down that slide. It was fabulous and fun and not what I usually do.

The message of my sermon to those little children that week was this – Jesus wants us to take vacations.

You see for those children (and for me), those two days at camp were definitely a vacation of sorts.

For most of these second and third graders, it was the first time they had experienced this kind of vacation. It was the first time they had been at Beckwith alone, without a parent, grandparent, or other adult they knew.

Away from family and the expectations of home, time away from cell phones and video games. Time in a place where you can sing crazy songs and pound on the table at dinner time. Time in a place where you can make all kinds of new friends, do all kinds of new things, and stay up past your usual bedtime.

Jesus wants us to take vacations.

Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile.

Jesus wants us to take vacations.

That was my message to those precious children.

But, not long after my sermon, those children preached a sermon to me. It was the last night of camp, and we had a children’s eucharist.

As I went up to the altar, I invited them to come up close. And, did they ever come close!

Sixty little ones all around me and the altar, as close as they could possibly get. A ring of little eyes looking up at me from all around that table. A few chins resting on the altar, precious bodies squeezed in as tightly as they could squeeze. On all four sides of the altar and right up next to me.

13 People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.

The sermon those children preached to me was about the unconditional love that God has for us. Most of the time, I have found that children seem to have a deeper, indeed. better understanding about that love than we grown-ups do, and that night they wanted to get as close as they could to that unconditional love of Jesus at the altar.

It was the kind of understanding that enabled them to trust. The kind of trust that allowed them to get close to the altar that night, just as the children who came to Jesus trusted and were taken up in his loving arms.

But, for children, it is not a naïve trust that doesn’t ask questions.

One of my favorite authors Rachel Held Evans wrote:

“Those who say that having childlike faith means not asking questions haven't met too many children.” (repeat)

The trust, the faith of children gives them the assurance that questions are okay.

No matter what they ask or how many times they ask, they will still be loved and

accepted.

It was God’s unconditional love that caused Jesus to see the crowd and to have compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. It was God’s unconditional love that caused Jesus to teach and to heal. It was God’s unconditional love that caused Jesus to invite the disciples to “come away…and rest a while.”

It is God’s unconditional love that created us and knows we need times of peace and rest for so many reasons. To get away from all the worries, cares, and occupations of the world; to quiet and still our bodies, our minds, and our souls.

But I think most of all we need these times to be reminded that God is God and we are not. God is God and we are not. We can trust, rest easy, and ask all the questions we may have or simply be still. Times when we can be taken up in God’s strong, loving arms and know that God can take care of the world and of us for a little while without us.

My friends, Jesus wants us to take vacations. AMEN.

The Philadelphia Eleven

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 20:51:40 GMT

On July 29th, the Episcopal Church will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the ordination of its first eleven women priests. All Saints Episcopal Church (110 West Hawthorne Road, Homewood) will hold a special event the evening before this important anniversary.

The Rt. Rev. Glenda S. Curry, Bishop of the Diocese of Alabama, will join us on Sunday, July 28th, at 5:30pm for Eucharist, followed by a showing of "The Philadelphia Eleven," a recent documentary which tells the story of these women. All are welcome to join us. We will have drinks, pizza, popcorn and candy for you.

For questions, please contact The Rev. Cindy Carter, ccarter@allsaintsbhm.org

"The Philadelphia Eleven" is a film by Margo Guernsey and Nikki Bramley about the eleven women who were ordained priests at the Church of the Advocate in Philadelphia in 1974. That was two years before General Convention authorized the ordination of women in 1976. The women ordained were Merrill Bittner, Alla Bozarth-Campbell, Alison Cheek, Emily Hewitt, Carter Heyward, Suzanne Hiatt, Marie Moorefield, Jeanette Piccard, Betty Schiess, Katrina Swanson, and Nancy Wittig.

This film has been in production for eight years because of the challenge of securing financing. In late 2021 a group of laywomen and clergy came together to help build a movement to fund the film from the grassroots. They are known as the “Film Funders Circle.” Over 1,200 individual donors and countless volunteer hours helped finish the production.

Learn MORE HERE

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Feast of Transfiguration

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 18:43:18 GMT

Join us Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at 12pm in the Chapel as we recognize the "Feast of Transfiguration". This feast commemorates the moment when Jesus' appearance changed dramatically while with Peter, James, and John on a mountaintop, revealing him as the Son of God. The date of August 6th is traditionally associated with the dedication of the first church built on Mount Tabor, which is widely considered to be the mountain where the event took place.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

How Can We Hear the Good News?

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 19:52:37 GMT

"How Can We Hear the Good News?"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

July 14, 2024

We must remember that the good news has begun. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness still has not overcome it. Let the kingdom of God which has come near is brought about not by force, but by faith. And it certainly does not come about by pretending as if everything is okay and as it should be. Rigorous honesty grants us the grace of a moment of clarity, and that clarity that brings us into an encounter with the truth about ourselves before God. And it is this truth that will empower us to experience God's love and speak of it with authentic power.

Advice for the Road

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 20:11:55 GMT

"Advice for the Road"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

July 7, 2024

Simon (later called Peter)

And, his brother Andrew

James, the son of Zebedee

And, his brother John

Philip

Bartholomew

Matthew, who was also called Levi

Thomas

James, the son of Alphaeus

Thaddeus

Simon, the Cananaean

Judas Iscariot

These were the twelve that the third chapter of Mark’s Gospel tells us Jesus had chosen “to be with him.” But at this point in Mark’s Gospel, we don’t really know much about these twelve men.

Simon, Andrew, and the sons of Zebedee – James and John – had been fishermen before Jesus called them to go with him. Matthew – or Levi – had been a tax collector. What the rest had been doing before Jesus chose them we don’t know.

All we really know is that Jesus had chosen them to be with him as he taught and as he cast out demons, bringing peace and calm to those whose world seemed to be turning upside down.

They had been with Jesus as he sat in a boat anchored at the Galilean shore and taught the crowd in parables. Then, he had taught the twelve privately, explaining the parables to them.

They had been with Jesus in the boat, crossing to the Gentile side of the Sea of Galilee, when a big storm blew up. The storm had terrified them, but they seemed to be perhaps even more terrified when they saw the awesome power that Jesus displayed as he quieted the wind and the waves with only a word. And, they wondered just who in the world Jesus was, a man who could speak and the wind and sea obeyed.

They were with Jesus when he encountered a madman, living out in a graveyard, possessed by many demons. And, they saw Jesus send the demons out of the poor tormented man into a herd of pigs. And, they saw the man restored to calm and peace, just like the sea had been.

As we heard in our Gospel reading last Sunday, they were with Jesus when a woman who had hemorrhaged for twelve long life-draining, money-draining years secretly touched Jesus clothing, knowing that even a touch would result in her healing. They couldn’t seem to figure out how Jesus could possibly know that any one person had touched him, given the press of the large crowd. But, then they saw Jesus call the woman out of the crowd, recognizing her with the loving name “daughter,” and sending her away in peace.

Peter, James, and John were with Jesus when he went home with a religious leader whose little girl had just died. They saw him restore her and bring that twelve year old girl back from death. And, they saw him make sure that she had something to eat, not only giving the little girl her life back but putting normal life back together for this little girl and her parents.

And, as we have heard in today’s Gospel reading, they were with Jesus when he went back to his hometown to teach on the Sabbath and they saw the ridicule that the people Jesus had grown up with heaped on him. “Hey, isn’t this Mary and Joseph’s boy? The little guy who used to run around his father’s carpenter shop? Why, we know his brothers and sisters. What is he doing trying to teach us? Just who does he think he is?”

And, now, now in the second half of today’s reading, Jesus does what I believe he has been planning to do with these twelve all along, ever since he chose them to be with him.

He is sending them out to proclaim the same message that he is sharing. He is giving them his authority to teach and to cast out demons. These twelve men who don’t seem to bring any special credentials or preparation for this mission. These twelve who frankly haven’t really seemed to understand exactly who Jesus is or what he is all about. Twelve men who just didn’t seem to get it.

But, even so, Jesus is making them his agents in the world, sharing his work with them. Commissioning them to be God’s partners in the work of the Kingdom.

Now, I believe that Jesus is still in the business of choosing people truly to be with him, to be his agents in the world, to share his work, to be about the Kingdom and about what God’s intention is for the world that God created.

Like the twelve in Mark’s Gospel, he gives those of us we are with him his authority to teach and to cast out demons, all the evil that opposes God’s intention for creation.

He does this even though we don’t seem to bring any special credentials or preparation for this incredible, sacred mission, even though at times we may not understand exactly who Jesus is or what he is all about, even when we just don’t seem to get it.

Lutheran pastor Nadia Bolz-Weber in her book Accidental Saints: Finding

God in All the Wrong People wrote,

Never once did Jesus scan the room for the best example of holy living and send that person out to tell others about him. He always sent stumblers and sinners. I find that comforting.

I don’t know about you, but like Pastor Nadia, I, too, find that comforting.

Now, Jesus gave these twelve he commissioned as God’s partners a few words of advice, and I think that advice is still good for those of us who would be with Jesus today.

Work together. This is not a mission you can do alone. Be part of a community. And, always remember that none of you is more important than the other. There are no “stars” in this work.

Travel light. Your mission is urgent; you can’t be weighed down with a lot of baggage. Extra equipment won’t be needed. You yourselves are the equipment for this mission, and you can rely on God for whatever you need.

Live simply and accept the hospitality offered you. This will allow you to keep your minds and energies focused on the accomplishment of the task you’ve been given.

If those to whom you go don’t accept you and your message, quietly move on. Don’t fret about it and get upset. You cannot force yourself on other people or take responsibility for their decision and their response. You are responsible only for your faithfulness to God’s mission. People must make their own decision. And, as Jesus knew all too well, as we heard in today’s Gospel reading, there are inherent limitations for any ministry that comes from a place of grace.

When those first, flawed, unprepared, and at times confused twelve went out in obedience, the authority that Jesus had given them became operative and effective. They preached repentance, cast out demons, and healed many. Their resources or the quality of their lives did not accomplish this. What counted was the power of God conferred on them by Jesus.

The work of Jesus is to continue in the world, and that is why Jesus still calls the church today and sends it out to share in his work. It is why Jesus continues to speak to the church and to say, “Work together. Travel light. Live in simplicity and trust, so you can stay focused on the work of the Kingdom. Be faithful in sharing the message you are given, and do not fret when it is not received.”

Jesus dares to send us out. And, may we dare to go - knowing that remarkable good can come through the obedience of seemingly inadequate messengers. Not because of what we do, but because of the authority conferred on us by Jesus.

And, you see we know something important that those first twelve did not know. They had seen Jesus do mighty deeds – healing the sick, casting out demons, raising the dead. But, we live on this side of the cross, in the light of the resurrection. We know, that through Jesus, God said the ultimate “no” to the evil powers that would destroy creation.

We can share, with that knowledge and with Christ’s authority, that life can be radically different. We can send the demons that still live in our world today - the evils of hate, prejudice, oppression, and greed – we can work to send them packing; we can bring wellness to those who are sick; and we can bring healing the spirits of those who are broken and without hope.

So, my friends, it is time to hit the road, to be God’s faithful partners and witnesses, and to engage in the work that we’ve been given to do.

AMEN.

Jr. High Summer Outreach Day

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 03:36:13 GMT

Make an impact! Be there for our independent seniors! Rising 7th-9th graders are invited to join a meaningful service opportunity, Sunday, July 21 at Episcopal Place in Birmingham. Meet us there, starting at 11:30am, to bring fun and joy to seniors and adults with disabilities. Episcopal Place provides affordable housing and promotes independent living, and your presence will brighten their day. We'll share lunch, create arts and crafts, play music, and enjoy games with the residents. This event is free to attend, and we'll wrap up by 4:00pm. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and connect with others in our Episcopal community.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Joy in Christ

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 19:14:23 GMT

"Joy in Christ"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

June 30, 2024

We sit here in the midst of a community, a community that is built on the foundation of God's power, that is love. A love that binds us up into a joyful, joyful life. Joy through our ability to navigate and accomplish works in this world big and small. Joy through meaningful relationships. Joy through our experiences with the divine. May we continue to reach through our faith in order to experience the fullness for which we have been created for. Created for and to experience joy.

All Ages Summer Choir

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 01:49:47 GMT

Join the "All Ages Summer Choir" at the 10:00am service on Sundays, July 14, 21, and 28! Everyone's welcome—bring your kids, parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbors for a beautiful intergenerational experience. If you can sing familiar hymns, you're old enough and skilled enough to join. Rehearsals start at 9:00am in the adult choir room on the 3rd floor. Just take the stairs by the elevator next to the sacristy. You don't have to attend all three Sundays to participate.

For more info, connect with Melanie Couch at mcouch@allsaintsbhm.org .

Who is God & Does He Care?

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 20:27:30 GMT

"Who is God & Does He Care?"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

June 23, 2024

One of the things that I often hear from people when they tell their journey, is how they discovered All Saints or the Episcopal Church, and how it has nourished their life of faith. Was. They often say that my questions were encouraged, my questions were welcomed not simply as in I'm going to ask a question and gives get some predefined answer. Not merely our intellectual curiosities. But the questions that keep us up at night. The questions that require a long dialog and a struggle to begin to even get anywhere close to making meaning or an answer. My questions were welcome, which is another way to say I was welcomed.

Lessons from the Garden

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 18:00:36 GMT

"Lessons from the Garden"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

June 16, 2024

With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it; he did not speak to them except in parables, but he explained everything in private to his disciples.

Perhaps it would have been easier for his first century audience if Jesus had just said what he meant - straight out.

But, as today’s scripture says, I’m guessing that they wouldn’t have been able to hear, really to hear, most of what he said. It would have just been too hard, and they would probably just shut their ears and walked away. .

Now, today’s scripture tells us that Jesus did explain what he meant in the parables privately to his disciples. Personally, I wonder about this because Jesus’ disciples, especially in Mark’s Gospel, seemed to have been so utterly clueless most of the time.

But that’s a subject for another discussion or another sermon.

The reality is that we didn’t get those explanations that Jesus gave privately to his disciples.

So, we are left only with these teachings of Jesus called parables, without explanation.

One dictionary I checked defined a parable as “a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.”

Now, I probably shouldn’t quibble with the dictionary, but I wonder of the writer of this definition had ever read the parables of Jesus. Because I usually find the parables of Jesus to be anything but simple.

These stories, called parables, that Jesus told were meant to be disruptive, to challenge what those who heard them thought they knew, to confront them with something that they might not really be ready to hear if it came to us straight on.

They didn’t come straight on to those who heard them in first century Palestine, and they don’t come straight on to us today. One commentator has called parables “truth delivered sideways.”

Another commentator has called them “narrative time bombs.” That is, a parable is a story that sounds simple when we first hear it, but it keeps us thinking and thinking and thinking about it…tick…tick…tick…and then… Boom! It hits us. Something surprising, unexpected, even shocking comes to us from this simple story, after we have turned it over and over in our brains.

One commentary I read said that parables are a form of literature, like poetry, that demands a great deal from us. They are not obvious to just anyone, not a casual reader or listener. Understanding parables requires an investment on our part.

Today, we have heard two short parables. Both with an agricultural theme.

I love the agricultural images that Jesus uses in these parables. Not because I would never call myself a farmer, but because I do love to garden. I love to get my hands in the dirt.

I completely agree with Margaret Atwood who said that, “In the spring, at the end of the day, one should smell like dirt.” And, for me the little poem that ends “One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth” comes pretty close to being scripture.

A person plants some seed. And after a few days, with the person sleeping then waking, sleeping then waking, the seeds sprout and grow until it is ready to be harvested. But, the person doesn’t understand how this happened. That’s what the kingdom of God is like.

Mustard seed, which is tiny, tiny, tiny, is sown in the ground and then grows into a very large plant. It becomes so large that birds can come and nest in it. That’s what the kingdom of God is like.

Really? Really? That’s what the kingdom of God is like, Jesus? And, what are we to make of these two puzzling little stories, Jesus?

Well, first, let me say that if you find someone who tells you they know the exact meaning of these parables (or any parable), be skeptical. You see, I don’t think parables work that way. Parables require us to use to our imaginations, to let them spin around in our heads, to discuss them with others.

And, parables usually, I’d say almost always, have multiple meanings. That’s the nature of parables.

But, let me tell you what one commentator has said about these parables. Here is what one scholar has suggested they may mean.

1. The mysterious growth of seeds. We are not in control of when God will bring in God’s kingdom in all its fullness. We are not in control of God. We are not even in control of our own lives. The seeds get planted; they sprout; they grow. But, how does it happen? We don’t know, and we certainly don’t control the growth of those seeds. Even if I carefully water and weed and fertilize things in my garden, I don’t make thing grow. Like every gardener, I know that I don’t control the growth of what I plant.

2. Tiny seeds that grow into something big. God’s kingdom is not what we expect. It certainly isn’t something we can control, but it’s also something we might not even want, especially if we even remotely like things the way they are.

Think about those mustard seeds. Mustard wasn’t usually sown in a garden because it is so uncontrollable. It takes over. It’s basically a weed. If you are a gardener, think mint. I keep mine in a pot because otherwise, before long I’d have a whole yard full of mint.

I learned this the hard way in the yard of the first home I bought in St Louis when I was a fledgling gardener. Lovely old brick house, built not long after the 1904 World’s Fair. Across the street from a beautiful Victorian park. Mint everywhere. Every crevice and every crack. Definitely in a pot.

God’s kingdom turns what we think we know about how things work upside down. Mustard in a garden. Why that’s just crazy.

We are not on control of the coming of God’s Kingdom in all its fullness. And, God’s kingdom is not what we expect it to be. Heck, God’s kingdom may not even be exactly what we would want, because God’s kingdom may very well turn our world upside down.

What if Jesus had said that straight on? Not exactly what we might want to hear, is it? That message might just make us shut our ears and walk away.

Here’s my suggestion to you.

Think about these two parables this week. Maybe even re-read them a few times during the week. Let them spin around in your head. What do they say to you? Use your imagination. Look for places in your life that relate to what these parables say. Feel free to give them your own interpretation.

And, what if they tell us that we are not in control of the ultimate coming of God’s Kingdom? What if they tell us that God’s kingdom may not be what we expect or even want? Well, what then? What would that mean for how we live our lives?

Jesus doesn’t make it easy for us. He didn’t give us a rule book or a “how to” guide; instead he gave us strange, unusual, surprising stories.

But, the parables he told in first century Palestine have kept us thinking, kept us listening, kept the conversation going for 2000 years. And, that, my friends, is how I believe we learn the lessons this one named Jesus came to teach us.

Listen as you read and think about these parables this week. Perhaps you will hear the narrative time bomb’s tick…tick…tick…and then maybe even the BOOM of something surprising, unexpected, and even shocking that will come to you from these apparently “simple stories.”

AMEN.

Where Are You Adam?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 15:17:08 GMT

"Where Are You Adam?"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

June 9, 2024

God can take something that is painful, that makes us afraid, and God can redeem it. God can transform it. And so theologians have spilled all this ink trying to explain how and the world did evil and sin come into the world when it was all created by a good and loving God? And it goes back to this, this gift of choice, this gift of of us having a say in the matter and God not exempting God's self from that suffering, but being able to enter into it and to redeem and transform that suffering. Remember when you feel that breeze in the evening, when you feel as if you have been hiding from God, or perhaps just distracted from God? That God is there calling out to you, where are you, Adam? Where are you? Eve I am here walking in your midst.

Staff Transition

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 03:35:25 GMT

In case you didn't know, Tara Portney is departing her role as Parish Coordinator for an exciting new chapter in her life. She will be returning to her hometown of Scottsboro, AL to take the helm of her family’s business Nicholas Financial Services. Tara has been a dedicated part of our staff throughout significant transition these past four and half years. As anyone who has encountered Tara knows, she cares deeply for this community. She will be missed tremendously! You can read a message from her HERE.

All Saints is proud to announce that Summer Stough will be joining our staff as our new Parish Coordinator, starting late July. Summer spent two decades as Parish Administrator at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church and most recently was Head of School for The Tree House Episcopal Montessori School in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Summer told us she was drawn to All Saints because of its vibrant community and vision of Embodying Christ’s Transforming Love. As a lifelong Episcopalian, Summer is eager to support the parish's mission and growth.

Tara's last day on staff is June 14, but she will be helping with bulletins remotely until Summer joins us, which will be Monday, July 22nd. Until then, we are happy to welcome Elena Moreno to our staff! She will be handling many of the day-to-day Parish Coordinator duties. If you get a moment, stop by and say hey to her.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Join Our A/V Ministry

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 03:03:38 GMT

No experience necessary! We are offering an opportunity to assist a vital ministry on Sunday mornings. All Saints live streams the 11am (10am right now) service every Sunday. Those having a decent technical aptitude will probably be more attracted to this, but we'll train anyone interested on everything you will need to know.

If you are interested in being a part of this ministry, connect with Brian: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Looking For a Summer Read?

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:44:56 GMT

Beat the heat with a book! Find your perfect summer read today. Looking for a book about prayer and meditation or exploring writings on faith or Christian living? The Taylor Abbot Library has you covered. Located in the south addition near rooms 223 and 224, this library offers a rich collection of adult-focused topics. For children's books, head to the main reception area, specially designed for easy browsing with your kids. You can check out any book for up to three months by completing the simple checkout form in the library or reception areas. When you're done, just return the books to the library basket and note the date. This collection is for your enjoyment, so we hope you'll discover new and inspiring reads to enrich your life!

A Wellspring of Life Abundant

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:23:38 GMT

"A Wellspring of Life Abundant"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

June 2, 2024

We need time to be centered in our spirits, because we can't focus on being meaningful human beings and engaging as meaningful human beings, and being in the ways that make the most sense as God's creations in this world, when we are hard at work. When we are focused on going to work, going to school, making dinner, paying bills, of course, getting groceries, we can't focus on why we are here and what we are doing as human beings in the world. But those are very important parts of being humans. Those things that we have to do, but they don't leave very much room for us to stay grounded on the important parts of how we live our lives. So that is the why for the Sabbath, God created it for us in order that we might live the richest, most faithful, life affirming, full life.

And so as we live out our lifelong discernment, discernment as people of faith, may we be accompanied by courage to lean into the undisturbed spaces of comfort in order that God's Spirit, along with our own spirits, may reach the tame deserts. And may we be part of transforming them from the withered and the dry to a wellspring of life abundant.

Help Us Serve Lunch!

Wed, 29 May 2024 15:46:50 GMT

All Saints is reaching out to nourish young minds, with lunch! The week of June 10, we are collaborating with Homewood Helps , the City of Homewood , and school counselors, to provide 320 lunches to students attending the Edgewood Elementary School reading and math camp!

You can help in three ways:

Help us pack lunches Sunday, June 9th at 4:00pm.
Donate $25 to go towards purchasing items for the lunches.
Donate food items to go into these lunches. Please have your items in the Great Hall no later than Wednesday, June 5th . There will be a designated drop off area.

To sign up, donate and for all the details , click the button below.

If you have questions, contact Alexa McElroy: alexa@ewbullock.com

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Parsing The Trinity

Tue, 28 May 2024 23:23:33 GMT

"Parsing The Trinity"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

May 26, 2024

The doctrine of the Trinity is the least worst language we have found for talking about something inexhaustible. But then again, who would want to exhaust God? How tragic to think that everything has already been understood, all truths already on earth. There is a deep and profound meaning to be found in that paradox, in the mystery of the Trinity, is better understood in relationship rather than in theory.

Eucharistic Visitor Care Team

Sun, 26 May 2024 15:14:41 GMT

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist is at the very heart of our life as the Body of Christ at All Saints. Due to health issues or mobility restrictions, some of our parishioners are unable to attend a service and rarely receive Holy Communion. In addition to our priests, our Pastoral Care Committee formed a Eucharistic Visitor Care Team as an additional response to this need.

Guided by our Rector, The Rev. Brad Landry, the following All Saints members have been trained, licensed, and commissioned to bring consecrated bread and wine to those unable to attend a Eucharist at the church:

Patty Dice

Joe Dice

Brit Huckabay

Joseph Slane

David Smith

David Walters

Bryson Waldo

For more information or to request a Eucharistic visit contact:

The Rev. Brad Landry

blandry@allsaintsbhm.org

The Rev. Joseph Slane

joeslane@att.net

Set Our Hearts on Fire

Tue, 21 May 2024 01:20:21 GMT

"Set Our Hearts on Fire"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

May 19, 2024

Come, Holy Spirit, come. Take my lips and speak with them. Take our minds and think with them. Take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you. In Christ’s name, we ask it. Amen.

In December 1737, a dispirited Anglican priest returned to England after a brief, controversial, some would even say failed, ministry in the American colony of Georgia. He was depressed and beaten, as he returned home. Not sure if he could continue his ministry.

A few months later, on May 24 ^th , 1738, the still despondent priest went to Aldersgate Street in London and reluctantly attended a meeting of Moravians, a group of German Christians with whom he had become acquainted on his passage to the colonies. That evening John Wesley, the depressed Anglican priest had what he later called “his Aldersgate experience.”

His description of what happened that night is summed up in his now famous phrase –

I felt my heart strangely warmed.

Now, I don’t know exactly what happened to John Wesley that evening on Aldersgate Street. One author referred to it as a “Holy Spirit moment.”

I don’t know exactly what happened that evening, but I do know that Wesley’s life wasn’t the same after it. It made all the difference in his life and in the lives of millions of others influenced by the group to which Wesley’s experience gave rise – the Methodists.

I don’t know exactly what happened to John Wesley that evening on Aldersgate Street, but I wonder if it was something like what the disciples gathered there together in Jerusalem felt at their “Holy Spirit moment,” on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came to them.

The “divided tongues, as of fire” was perhaps the only way those gathered there could describe the strange warming of their own hearts.

Fire – it seems to be what I, what many people, associate most with the way the Holy Spirit works. We don’t know exactly how the Holy Spirit comes to us, how the Holy Spirit works, but fire seems to describe whatever the Holy Spirit does as well as any human words can describe it.

Come, Holy Spirit, come. Take my lips and speak with them. Take our minds and think with them. Take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you. In Christ’s name, we ask it. Amen.

Take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you.

I said it a few minutes ago. I say it just about every time before I preach.

Take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you.

Do we really know what we are asking for here?

Fire. Yes, it does warm us. But I’m afraid it’s not always a toasty, cozy sort of warming.

Fire is unruly and difficult to control. It can disorient us and confuse us. It is pure energy that changes whatever it touches.

Take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you. Perhaps we need to be careful what we are asking for.

(Pause)

We began our readings after Easter with fearful disciples huddled together behind closed, locked doors.

But, on Pentecost, those who experienced the Holy Spirit’s fire, the Holy Spirit’s strange warming of their hearts, were energized and unafraid. They unlocked the doors and threw them wide open. They went out into the streets, telling everyone who would listen about this one named Jesus.

The barriers of nationality and culture and even language were unable to stop them.

Those who had experienced the fire of the Holy Spirit were willing to do some pretty crazy stuff, probably even to make such fools of themselves that other folks thought they had been drinking too way too much, way too early in the day.

I don’t know exactly what happened to those gathered disciples that day in Jerusalem, but I do know that it made all the difference in their lives and in the lives of millions and millions and millions of others influenced by what they did. Our lives – my life, your life - were changed by what they did.

For that I am thankful beyond measure.

So today, let us pray, “Come, Holy Spirit, come.”

With all your energy and unruliness. Disrupt the status quo of our lives. Take away our fear. Change us and make us willing to doing some pretty crazy stuff.

Bishop Michael Curry has said that the world needs some crazy Christians.

People who are just as crazy as Jesus was.

Crazy enough to love people who are different from us. Crazy enough to love even our enemies and to bless those who curse us. Crazy enough to pray for people who use us for their own deceitful purposes. Crazy enough to speak the truth. Crazy enough to forgive people when they do us wrong, even when they are willing to kill us.

In Bishop Curry’s words, “Crazy enough to love like Jesus, to give like Jesus, to forgive like Jesus, to do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God -- like Jesus. Crazy enough to dare to change the world from the nightmare it often is into something close to the dream that God dreams for it.”

Bishop Curry says that we Christians are called to craziness – and personally I believe that call to craziness is the work of the Holy Spirit.

So-

Come, Holy Spirit, come. Make us crazy like John Wesley. Make us crazy like those disciples on the Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem. Make us crazy like Jesus.

Make us crazy, energized, and fearless enough to change the world.

AMEN.

All is Not Just 12

Mon, 13 May 2024 15:11:36 GMT

"All is Not Just 12"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

May 12, 2024

Jesus, who has ascended into heaven, now fills all things. All neighborhoods, all peoples. For in the kingdom of heaven there simply is no us and them. In the kingdom of heaven there are no winners and losers. In the kingdom of heaven. Perhaps it doesn't have to be just Joseph called Barnabas, also known as Eustace or Matthias. Maybe it's both. Maybe it's us. Maybe it's all.

You Can Come Back Here

Mon, 13 May 2024 15:06:02 GMT

"You Can Come Back Here"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

May 5, 2024

The church here at All Saints is the place to ask the questions. All of them. No question is too wild. No question is too small to celebrate the mystery, to experience the love that persists through our friendships, as we continue to try and find a way to make it in this world. And that's it. When we leave here today and have those upcoming seasons, maybe one that you're in right this minute moments when the demands of this life are ripping you apart. And they just seem too hard to bear. You can come back here to wrestle with those. You can come back here when you need a break, when you need to retreat. You can come back here and abide in Christ's love to find some solace in worship. To see our youth growing up in the love of our friends. Don't do it yourself. We weren't made for that. We are created to do this life together through the gentle support of Christ. And we do that with our friends.

Summer Breakfast Schedule

Mon, 13 May 2024 01:40:42 GMT

Thank you to our awesome breakfast crews that have served us incredible food all year! They will be taking a short break from our beloved eggs, grits, bacon etc. and switch to a "grab and go" lineup like sweet rolls, donuts, yogurt, sausage and biscuit with juice and coffee. Serving will start about 9:00am and end at 9:50am since the only morning service starts at 10:00am . This will run from now until Sept. 8 when Sunday School starts back.

*Note there will be no breakfast at all May 26 (Memorial Day weekend) or July 7 (July 4th weekend)

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Tara Leaving

Fri, 10 May 2024 01:20:40 GMT

On June 14th Tara Portney will be departing her role as Parish Coordinator for an exciting new chapter in her life. If you would like to show your appreciation to Tara, there will be a basket in the Great Hall over the next few Sundays where you can place notes, cards, and small gifts for her. If you have questions, please contact The Rev. Ranie Neisler ( rneisler@allsaintsbhm.org ) or The Rev. Cindy Carter ( ccarter@allsaintsbhm.org ).

While we will be sad to see Tara go, we are also thrilled for this new opportunity for her! She will be returning to her hometown of Scottsboro, AL to take the helm of her family’s business Nicholas Financial Services. Tara has been a dedicated part of our staff throughout significant transition these past four and half years. As anyone who has encountered Tara knows, she cares deeply for this community.

From Tara:

“Over the past four and a half years, it has been an immense privilege and honor to serve alongside such a dedicated and compassionate congregation. Working with each member of the community has been an enriching experience, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the mission and vision of this church. I want to express my sincere appreciation for the support, encouragement, and camaraderie that I have received from both the clergy and the congregation during my time here. Your commitment to our shared values and beliefs has inspired me daily, and I will carry the memories of our time together with me always. While I am saddened to be leaving this wonderful community, I am also excited about the new opportunities that lie ahead for me. Please know that my decision to resign was not made lightly, and I am confident that it is the right step for me at this point in my journey.”

Please take a moment to stop by and thank Tara for her time at All Saints. She will remain involved in the Episcopal Church and the Cursillo community, so happily there will be many occasions for our paths to continue to cross.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Job Opening: Parish Coordinator

Wed, 08 May 2024 14:38:30 GMT

All Saints is hiring a Parish Coordinator! This is a chance to work in a creative and collaborative environment, please take a moment to look at the job description, and send a cover letter and resume to office@allsaintsbhm.org . The Parish Coordinator is a key role on our parish staff that works closely with our clergy, staff, and members to organize and implement meaningful ministry.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Portrait Sessions

Thu, 02 May 2024 02:41:46 GMT

Smile and say "cheese!" Becky Stayner, our talented Senior Warden, is offering our second professional portrait session for All Saints individuals and families Sunday, June 9th, with a limit of 8 per session. Time slots are available between 9:30am and 11:30pm, but registration is REQUIRED . This is to populate our Realm online directory with beautiful pictures of our parishioners.

Digital images will be available for a donation, with more details to be provided to you by Becky when you have your photo session. Embrace the chance to immortalize your family's radiant smiles and allow others to get to know who you and your family are in our online directory!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

All Saints Loves Homewood

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 14:57:53 GMT

All Saints loves everyone in Homewood, and to show that, all are welcome to be a part of our lawn party in coordination with "We Love Homewood Day", Saturday, May 4th, from 3:00pm-6:00pm on Terrell Commons. We will have food, music, fellowship and the Kentucky Derby! Oh and...for a price...you will be able to dunk our Rector, the Rev. Brad Landry, and others in our dunking booth!

This event brings neighbors together while raising funds for our Outreach Grant Programs that help those in need locally.

Your support means a lot. We look forward to seeing you and your neighbors!

DUNKING BOOTH

It's not holy water, but it is wet! For a price, we will have several "celebrities" to dunk! This includes our Rector, The Rev. Brad Landry! Don't miss this rare opportunity to soak the man who usually does the soaking!

3:00p to 4:15p Dunk the Dads
4:15p to 4:45p Grace Turner
4:45p to 5:15p Kathleen Busbee
5:15p to 5:45p The Rev. Brad Landry

KENTUCKY DERBY

We will have the run ning of the Kentucky Derby live as it happens! We will be offering a way for you to get front row seats and to participate in several ways including kids activities and a raffle!

This event brings neighbors together while raising funds for our Outreach Grant Programs that help those in need locally.

Your support means a lot. We look forward to seeing you and your neighbors!

MEALS AVAILABLE VIA PRE-ORDER ONLY

We are partnering with Little Donkey for pre-order meals for this event. They are offering "Fundraiser Fiesta Packs!". Order and pay for your meal HERE or above. Menu below. Meals will be available for pick-up the day of the event at the time you pick on the form.

FAMILY FIESTA TACO PACK - SMOKED CHICKEN

$45.00

INCLUDES SMOKED CHICKEN, RICE, BLACK BEANS, VERDE, ONIONS, CILANTRO & FRESHLY MADE FLOUR TORTILLAS

SERVES 3-4

WHOLE FRIED CHICKEN FAMILY MEAL

$45.00

INCLUDES OUR FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN, RICE, PINTO BEANS, PICKLED VEGETABLES, AND HABANERO VINEGAR.

SERVES 3-4.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteers needed! Check the form HERE to sign up today!

DUNKING BOOTH

3:00p to 4:15p Dunk the Dads
4:15p to 4:45p Grace Turner
4:45p to 5:15p Kathleen Busbee
5:15p to 5:45p The Rev. Brad Landry

KENTUCKY DERBY

We will have the run ning of the Kentucky Derby live as it happens! We will be offering a way for you to get front row seats and to participate in several ways including kids activities and a raffle!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Earwitness

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:59:59 GMT

You are invited to a special event Sunday, May 5, from 4:00pm-5:30pm here at All Saints! This will be a conversation between journalist Beth Shelburne, host of the critically-acclaimed Earwitness podcast about Toforest’s case, and Akeriya “Muffin” Terry, Toforest’s daughter who has been making short videos on Instagram to tell her story of growing up with a father on death row for something he didn’t do.

Toforest Johnson, a 50-year-old Black man, has been on Death Row for more than 25 years for a crime he did not commit. Greater Birmingham Ministries is leading a state-wide advocacy campaign with faith-based institutions seeking to support his case and bring him home to his family. Hundreds of Alabama residents and faith leaders – as well as Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr, and even the original trial prosecutor - have called for a new trial. But Alabama continues to seek Toforest’s execution.

To learn more about the case and how you can help, please visit www.toforestjohnson.com

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Letter Writing to End Hunger

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:24:34 GMT

Bread for the World Letter Writing

Nearly one in ten people worldwide go to bed hungry, and one in five Alabama children face the reality of going without food. All Saints "Practicing Your Faith" class and "Creation Care Ministry" invite you to join hands with "Bread for the World," a Christian hunger advocacy group, as they write letters to Congress, urging them to pass a family-friendly Farm Bill.

This is a chance to be the voice of the voiceless and the hope of the hungry. All ages are welcome, no experience necessary – just a servant's heart! Join us Sunday, May 19th, from 9:00am to 12:00pm in the Great Hall, and let your words help those in need!

Peace Be With You

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 14:35:41 GMT

"Peace Be With You"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

April 14, 2024

This is not a ghost story. This is incredibly, unbelievably, joyously, a flesh and blood human being, fully alive, that God has revealed through the glory of God. And when we perceive Jesus for who He really is, we begin to experience that very same transformation for ourselves. Peace be with you, child of God. Jesus says these words to the disciples, Peace be with you. He's not giving them extra peace. He's urging them to see the peace that they have been given. And it's the peace he has given to us as well. Let us bid the one another recognize it!

Lost & Found

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 02:56:40 GMT

Are you missing something?

Our church LOST & FOUND has acquired a number of items left in various areas of the church over the past several months. We have coats, glasses, drink-wear, a personalized prayer book and a Bible, some keys, and a set of ear pods. We’d love to find the owners as we only keep items for a few months before they are donated. If you think an item could be yours please stop by our office during business hours and take a look.

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Sharing Scar Stories

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 21:48:26 GMT

Sharing Scar Stories

The Rev. Ranie Neislar

April 7, 2024

We do silly things when we first start to get to know people. I’m sure a few of you have participated in get-to-know-you activities often called “Ice-breakers”. Sometimes there will be a question thrown out to the group, like “if you could have dinner with any one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?” or “would you rather have the ability to be invisible or be able to fly and why?” And, sometimes this one: “tell a story behind a scar you have.” We often call these “scar stories.” Sometimes the stories happen naturally. One person in the group says, “oh yeah, that reminds me of this time that I fell out of a tree trying to sneak out of the house and meet up with my friends and I broke my arm,” and of course, they show you this huge scar. And then I would be all this is mine: I have epilepsy and was out running, up a hill and all the sudden, boom, I had a seizure and came down hard on my chin, but I’m a beast and yes I went running two days later!” We want to share our scars, there is something about sharing our triumphs during hard moments; the very fact that we lived to tell the tale after some physically hard moments of our lives is something so many of us feel defines our ability to persevere as human beings; we feel good about these outward signs of resilience and sharing these stories because they tell people more about what we are made of—they tell people about our character; we are individuals that endure, physically. The scars that Jesus shares with the disciples proclaim a different endurance, one that changes each of our stories about resilience. Jesus has died and risen—and has the scars to prove it! Not a single one of us will, most likely, have that experience because we are not God, and instead, we will wait eagerly for the second coming. After our physical bodies are dead we will wait with the rest of creation to be raised to what God intends for us in the fully realized Kingdom of God. And then, we will be the same but different, like we see in the raised person of Jesus—the same but different. But for now, we have this: through our union with Christ, we can begin to practice this resurrection in ourselves, with our neighbors, and in the rest of creation. We can have tastes of new life, the resurrection life offered to us through Christ now! Jesus didn’t “pay it all”, because our God is not transactional, Jesus gave it all, and through that gift we can experience some of the healing, the freedom, the peace, and the joy through our communion with Christ, Jesus.

You might be wondering where you can get this once-in-a-lifetime package deal, this experience that changes the trajectory of our lives. Well, you’re here. Since I’ve been here, I can’t count the stories of reconciliation I’ve already heard—people telling me about their experiences of healing, joy, peace, and newfound freedom they have found here, at All Saints. All this is here, now-- here in bible studies, here in the nave, here in Atrium, in the formation of our children and youth, through our pastoral care, through our dedication to learning and loving. I am finding out about this reconciliation because people are sharing their stories.

Jesus in being divine through and through was compelled by this reconciliatory reality. One way I like to talk about God, (and I invite you to consider ways in which you might talk about God in this way,) is as a reality. God is not a created thing… God is not another being, like us except bigger and better. God is wholly different, not a being, not a thing, so the closest way to talk about God, that I’ve heard from theologians is God as a reality. God’s reality blankets the world, always present but not necessarily always recognizable. When God limits God’s self in a person, in the person of Jesus, that reality is amplified as it is focused in the being of Jesus, God’s reality is channeled through this one person. So, risen Jesus, like the Jesus we hear about today with the disciples, with Thomas, bearing witness to the reality of God, in this reality, in our God we see a new life, the same but different, and Jesus is inviting the disciples, inviting us to take part in this new life. Now, like I said, Jesus is different. Jesus is fully human and fully divine, being fully divine Jesus cannot NOT share the story of God, the reality of God… the reality that being in a reconciled relationship with God and with others brings new life, it refines us, and brings challenges, but new life—being in that relationship brings healing, peace, joy, contentment!

Jesus speaks all this to the disciples: “peace be with you… forgive… put your finger here and see my hands… you may have life.” This is what we hear today. We hear that if we engage with the reality of the divine, as it is proclaimed in the death and resurrection of Jesus and therefore practice grace and love in relationship with creation, we will have the fullest life… we can participate in a new way of being a human in this world through the reality that Jesus brings.

Now, here is what else we hear, perhaps the hardest thing in some ways: “I send you.” Uh-oh. The disciples are being sent… (are we disciples?… does that mean we are being sent somewhere? I get anxious when I travel!) I’m so over this tired cliché of “Episcopalians don’t do evangelism.” It’s so over played. Also, it’s not true. We invite people into our lives and show them a freedom many Christians don’t understand, and in that sharing this good news. We act out evangelism daily, often without speaking a word. But, yes, Jesus is telling the disciples to go out and proclaim, with words, new life, to proclaim reconciliation between people and God… Jesus is calling us to do the same.

Our challenge, like it is for any Christian tradition, is to name, as individuals in our community, God’s reconciling work in our lives and share that with others. That is hard, it is like God asking us to share our scar stories, but instead of talking about that time you fell during a seizure and busted your chin open, you talk about how you couldn’t drive for two years. You talk about how you lost so much independence as a young adult with a disability and how the retired church women took turns taking you to the grocery store, picking you up for work… God is asking you to show your hands, the mark in your side, the signs of spiritual resurrection, the signs of new life. These spiritual scar stories are not often the ones we are willing to tell because they are not just physical signs of perseverance. Though, they can be physical, in a way, they often involve much more than that. They often involve telling of emotional, mental, and intellectual healing and peace you’ve found on the other side of a God-centered life, life after the scars have formed. The intimidating part of this sharing, the temptation to not share about this new life after the healing, is that it puts on full display our vulnerability, which is not a given like it is when we are talking about our physical bodies. Because, yes, of course if you fall out of a two-story building and land the wrong way it is pretty obvious to any human being you could break your arm. Living a disordered life, with thoughts that lead to painful thinking and behavior, painful to ourselves and others… those are not so obvious, some of us can hide those really well. But these are the healing stories we are called to share and people need to hear. People need to know that healing is possible and this is a place where it can start: All saints, a community centered on the reality of a loving, gracious, God.

Those are the stories we need to share with our friends and neighbors. On May 4 ^th All Saint’s is hosting an “All Saints Loves Homewood” lawn party. Of course, the parade will be going on later that day, but earlier on we are opening our campus up and inviting the neighborhood over for a party on a gorgeous May day. Basically, we are part of a huge block party and we want you to stop by our house for some food, a beer, lemonade, watch the derby, listen to some live music… dunk Brad in a dunking booth. We are inviting our neighbors over to hang out and enjoy being together, and over that ice cold lemonade, while sharing that beer, with some great music in the background, that moment may very well be the time to share a scare story—maybe it’s a food prep scar, you took a little bit too much off the top of your finger, but nonetheless, share your story, share about the new life, this whole new way of being a human, what centered you, and where you found it, talk about how we are living into God’s reality, God’s dream here at All Saints… because that new life, that new reality, it’s an open invitation, and just like any good lawn party, the more the merrier.

Work Day

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 21:15:02 GMT

Saturday, May 18th: Join Us for a Work Day!

Working side by side, let's turn sweat into satisfaction! Roll up your sleeves, Saturday, May 18th, from 8am-12pm as we rally together to tackle some projects from around the church property. We'll be cleaning, clearing, and sprucing up areas as well as striping the alley parking area. Don't miss out on this opportunity to work with others in our church community!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Youth Music Concerts

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 15:57:54 GMT

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy All Saints upcoming youth music concerts in our Nave!

The first concert is Wednesday, May 1 at 6:00pm featuring the Good Shepherd choir, children's choir and the youth choir. A reception follows in Great Hall.

Then the second one is Sunday, May 4 at 8:30am. There will be morning prayer followed by the special music from our children's choir and youth choir. There will be no eucharist for this service.

Don't miss your chance to witness the talent and passion of the next generation of musicians.

Youth Sunday

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 15:56:18 GMT

Sunday, April 28 , the youth take over the 8:30am and 11:00am services! They will sing, read and provide the sermon. If you have never experienced Youth Sunday, you are in for a wonderful experience.

Celebration of New Ministry

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 15:33:08 GMT

Join us if you can for a "Celebration of New Ministry" for the Rev. Seth Olson, Wednesday, May 1st, 6:30pm at the Holy Apostles in Hoover!

Seth also wanted to share a note of gratitude with all of us:

Dear All Saints,

This note of gratitude is long overdue. Thank you so much for the gifts you gave to me as I concluded my time as your Associate Rector. The collected purse was much appreciated. Even more than those gifts, I appreciate the love you shared with my family and me during the five years of our shared ministry together. It was a joy to be a part of such a wonderful community. As I have begun my new ministry at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles in Hoover, I have taken with me the loving imprint you left upon me. Again, thank you.

God’s peace,

Seth

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Easter Sunday Sermon

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 15:54:21 GMT

Easter Sunday Sermon

The Rev. Brad Landry

March 31, 2024

Putting on Tassels for the Resurrection - Holy Saturday Sermon

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 14:27:10 GMT

Holy Saturday Sermon

The Rev. Ranie Neislar

March 30, 2024

"The Sorrowful Way" - Good Friday Sermon

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 13:00:01 GMT

"The Sorrowful Way"

Good Friday Sermon

The Rev. Cindy Carter

March 29, 2024

The Passion According to John

The Old City of Jerusalem is one of my favorite places on earth. I’ve visited that place on three different trips to Israel and Palestine, and I will never tire of it.

If you’ve ever been there, perhaps you know what I mean. To walk where Jesus walked is an experience that is really difficult for me to find words to describe.

But, the Old City, as ancient as it is, is not some sort of museum.

It remains a living, breathing, vibrant city. Apartments where people live, a marketplace where people buy and sell, streets where children play and schools where they learn. It is full of brilliant colors and wonderful smells; and it is noisy.

A number of years ago, the group of pilgrims of which I was a part did what groups of pilgrims traditionally do in the Old City. We took turns carrying a cross along the Via Dolorosa, the Sorrowful Way, the route that Jesus took from his trial before the religious authorities to condemnation by the Roman Governor Pilate and finally to his crucifixion and burial… ending at what is now the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

For pilgrims, it is a very meaningful journey.

But, as I walked along that day in the Old City, it suddenly dawned on me that no one around us seemed to notice what we were doing. No one was paying attention.

For those of us who were pilgrims, it was a reverent, powerful experience, but for people in the Old City, it was just one more group of pilgrims. Nothing special.

Israeli soldiers hassled Palestinian children playing in the street, tourist shops advertised their wares, all manner of items – everything from food and deliciously fragrant spices to clothing and shoes – were bought and solk. The busy life of the city went on as we walked the Sorrowful Way.

And, then I realized - it was probably the same on that day when Jesus carried his cross to Golgotha. You see, the Roman Government that occupied Jerusalem crucified people literally all the time.

Nothing unusual here. It was one of the ways that Rome kept things under control. It was how agitators were dealt with as a warning to others.

And, while it was indeed public and violent and awful, it was usual.

I’m guessing that the everyday life of the city went on as Jesus carried that cross. Perhaps only a few of Jesus’ followers who were scattered along the way noticed, but most of the people in the City that day weren’t really paying attention.

One more man to be crucified. One more life that was expendable to preserve the “peace of Rome.”

And, this Holy Week, I have wondered – how often do we miss the people travelling Sorrowful Ways all around us? Are suffering and sorrow so usual that we simply do not see it unless they smack us right in the face and affect us personally?

How often do we fail to see the suffering, the violence, the sadness, the sorrow around us? If we miss the folks travelling on these Sorrowful Ways, how can we reach out to help them? And, if we fail to see the suffering and sorrow around us, do we perhaps risk our own minds becoming closed and our own hearts becoming hard ad uncaring hearts becoming hard and uncaring?

(PAUSE)

In a few moments, we will pray what the Prayer Book calls “The Solemn Collects.”

We will pray for “people everywhere according to their needs.” We will pray for the church and for the nations of the world and those in authority. We will pray for those who suffer – the hungry and homeless, the sick and wounded, the lonely and fearful, the sorrowful and bereaved, those in prison, and those in mortal danger. We will pray for those who have not received the Gospel of Christ.

I wonder – perhaps these prayers which are part of the Good Friday liturgy can help remove our complacency and inattention and remind us of all those travelling Sorrowful Ways.

Perhaps we can pray these prayers today as a way to open our hearts and minds and eyes to see those close to us and those far away who need our love and help.

Perhaps we can pray these prayers today to activate our hands and feet to do something to help.

Today we gaze on the One who walked the Sorrowful Way and hung on a cross to show us how far love will go, what love looks like when it is lived to its fullest, to its completeness.

May that One be our model of love and compassion, so we can truly see all those around us – close to us and far away – who walk the Sorrowful Way. So that we can show others the love we see on a cross today.

AMEN.

Maundy Thursday Sermon

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 20:59:00 GMT

Maundy Thursday Sermon

The Rev. Brad Landry

March 28, 2024

Christian Guideposts for Joy on the Journey to the Cross

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:12:20 GMT

"Christian Guideposts for Joy on the Journey to the Cross"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

March 24, 2024

Human brokenness stood out to me clearly this Passion Sunday. Reading our sacred texts for this Sunday, I noticed, as I usually do, the sins of Judas, his blatant disloyalty, his corruption, the chief priests and their jealousy and fear, and as a result their plan to turn Jesus over as a threat to the government, the sinful system in which Pilate is also compliant. All these sinful individuals, these communities, and systems can seem so distant to us, yet they are closer than we would like to admit. This year the sinful reality of the people throughout these texts was sharply clear in a new way because they remind me of us, marked with brokenness, and are aptly described: as broken humanity. Before we explore those breaks and all that lays on the other side of them, it is very important to get clear on what I mean by humanity.

God created everything with an intention; that intention was for all creation, including the human to be in right relationship with itself and with God. We failed to live as God intended. We failed to live into God’s intention, to be right with God, and the rest of creation, like our neighbors, people from different cultures, skin colors, religions, we failed to do right by the water, the air, and other aspects of God’s world. After some time, God sent God’s son to live as a creature, just like us: fully susceptible to the same failings we are susceptible to, better known as sin. Yet, this time, this creature, just like us in most ways, lived fully as God intended: Jesus didn’t fail to live as God intended and instead lived as, what we might call, the most humane creature to live. He was only able to be fully humane, fully as God intended, because, though he was fully like us, he was also fully God. And so, in the sense that Jesus lived perfectly into the intention that all persons are called into by God, he was fully human—he was able to live the most faithful, rich, full life that God has offered human creatures, because he was God in person form, and because he was the person, who lived entirely as God so intended,

because he was God we have only to look towards Christ Jesus to understand what being fully human looks like. Anything that is less than that, any of what takes us away from God’s intention is our lacking humanity, or BREAKS in our humanity. Only Jesus is the true, full human. The rest of us have some lack, some brokenness that is less than human. All of that being said, I often look at other creatures, especially my dogs, and ponder the real possibility that they are more human than I am.

There is so much here: to consider the divine becoming like us, “though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross.” If we take that text that Paul writes to the Philippians and use it as a prism through which we read the Passion narrative… at first glance it doesn’t make sense. Or rather, it doesn’t make sense to me. It doesn’t make sense that God, who created all things good, and right to begin with, is stuck fixing what we, creatures, got wrong in our freedom. It doesn’t make sense that a God propelled by an energy of pure love is willing and continues to be subject to everything in our lives that is not love, or good, or just. It doesn’t make sense that God, knowing full well how to live the most extravagant, lavish life, as a creature, chooses to allow his life to be cut short in an emotionally and physically painful way… an end punctuated by rejection. But that is what we are invited to do as we begin this Holy Week, to read and reflect on this sacred story as simple creatures. And through that reflection, through the week, can we most fully see the fullness of what we are called into as Christ-followers, it is only through that reflection can we most clearly see our own path forward as disciples—

which is no path at all if it were not for divine intervention in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. On the other side of all the breaks of this world, this most human person is God that came to be with us, live like us, and invite us into a different way of being: a way through the gut-wrenching, soul-crushing breaks that all of us experience in our lives.

Before Paul describes so succinctly Jesus’s life, death, and divinity, he says this “Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus”… he is saying to the Philippians, and to us today, take on this mindset, set yourself on this path, follow the person Jesus along this way and be prepared to endure, to persevere through hard moments, and in some of the same moments experience a closeness with God and others like never before... and in the final season of reality as we know it, experience a glory unlike any you’ve ever known because you have lived a faithful life, pursuing love, accepting grace, and offering reconciliation. The reality of what lies on the other side of the tomb is most fully appreciated if we take the time now, to walk through this most holy week, and focus on the breaks—because we still live in a world marked by breaks in humanity.

Last Tuesday night I was reminded of Holy Week and the hard story we are called to participate in and reflect on over and over again. I was called back, invited to see our human weakness, our inability to grasp God’s intention for us and our great need for reconciliation to God and one another. I was sitting in on a formation offering that has been ongoing Tuesday nights during Lent. It was a book study focused on racial healing. Racial justice and healing is something I am deeply passionate about so I was very excited that All Saints was participating. And though Tuesday night was the end of that particular book study, it was far from the end of All Saint’s participation in this work. On that night I was surrounded by All Saints parishioners of all ages, backgrounds, and stages of life, and each one of those individuals was deeply moved by the breaks in humanity and participating in the ongoing work of reconciliation, specifically racial reconciliation, but what is most outstanding is that each person realized that the work of reconciliation was not just their unique calling, but as disciples of Christ, as people who strive to “be of the same mind that was in Christ Jesus” they realized that each person, every disciple is called to participate in making a broken people more human.

On the other side of Christ Jesus’s work as a creature in the world: a fully human and fully divine creature, is that which only the divine can work: reconciliation, healing, and justice on a cosmic level. I invite you into the most holy story this week, I invite you to reflect on the breaks in humanity then, and now, and to prepare yourselves to participate in what is on the other side of an open tomb.

Easter Vigil

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 20:16:18 GMT

From a liturgical/theological perspective, the Great Vigil of Easter is possibly the most important service we do all year! Join us this Saturday, March 30, starting at 7:15pm for a pilgrimage from the King Garden, to the Great Hall, then the front patio for the baptism, and finally into the church for the first Eucharist of Easter. This special service consists of four parts:

The "Service of Light" which includes kindling of a new fire, lighting the Paschal candle, and the Exsultet. This will be in the King Garden starting around 7:15pm (sunset).
The "Service of Lessons" that are readings from the Hebrew Scriptures interspersed with psalms, canticles, and prayers that are a record of our salvation history. This will take place in the Great Hall after a procession from the King Garden.
Christian Initiation that consists of Holy Baptism or the Renewal of Baptismal Vows. This will be on the front patio.
The Holy Eucharist in the Nave.

Through this liturgy, The Book of Common Prayer recovers an ancient practice of keeping the Easter feast. Believers would gather in the hours of darkness ending at dawn on Easter to hear scripture and offer prayer. This night-long service of prayerful watching anticipated the baptisms that would come at first light and the Easter Eucharist. Easter was the primary baptismal occasion for the early church. This practice linked the meanings of Christ's dying and rising to the understanding of baptism.

Homewood Way of the Cross

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 00:22:42 GMT

Marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the "Homewood Way of the Cross" ceremony will be this Friday, March 29 . We gather at 2:00pm at Homewood Central Park to process from church to church, ending at Edgewood Presbyterian. All Saints clergy will participate, we would love to see you as well.

There is also a "Stations of the Cross" this Friday, April 7 beginning at 12:00pm in Linn Park. This is a pilgrimage combines traditional faith with Birmingham’s Civil Rights history. We will travel approximately 15 blocks and will take about 90 minutes. You are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes. This pilgrimage is sponsored by St. Luke's Episcopal Church and Greater Birmingham Ministries.

We Wish to See Jesus

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 15:41:30 GMT

"We Wish to See Jesus"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

March 17, 2024

The religious leaders knew they had to do something. When they heard that Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, they knew they had to do something. And, John’s Gospel tells us that “from that day on they planned to put him to death.”

So, Jesus laid low with his disciples in the wilderness for a while. But, as the Feast of the Passover drew near, Jesus headed toward Jerusalem and a final confrontation with the powers that sought to destroy him and the message he brought.

First, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, just outside Jerusalem. Bethany was the hometown of Lazarus – the one Jesus had raised from the dead - and his sisters Mary and Martha. And when Jesus arrived in Bethany, these three good friends threw a dinner party for him. After dinner, Mary anointed Jesus’s feet with expensive, aromatic oil and then wiped his feet with her hair, in an extravagant, faithful act of love and devotion that filled the whole house with a beautiful fragrance. Perhaps Mary knew that this dear friend would not be with them much longer.

When word got out that Jesus was back in Bethany and at Lazarus’ home, a great crowd gathered there. They gathered not only to see Jesus, but also they came to see Lazarus – this one who had been dead and now was alive. Now the religious leaders knew they had to do something – not only about Jesus but also about Lazarus.

The following day the crowd that was already gathered in Jerusalem for the Passover festival heard that Jesus was coming into town, and they went out to meet him with palm branches and shouts of Hosanna.

And, they kept talking. Talking about Jesus calling Lazarus out of the tomb, talking, talking, talking about Jesus. And, the religious leaders knew that things were out of control – everyone was going after Jesus to follow him. They had to do something.

That is the ominous and threatening setting for our Gospel reading today.

Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks.

We don’t know exactly who these Greeks were. They may have been Gentile converts to Judaism, but more likely they were Jews who had been dispersed from their homeland. We don’t know exactly why they had come to Jerusalem for the Passover festival this year.

But, I am guessing that in Jerusalem they had heard all this talk about Jesus, because they came to one of the disciples, Philip, with a request –

Sir, we wish to see Jesus.

Sir, we want to see Jesus. Can you help us?

Then, Philip went and told Andrew about this request.

Now I have a special place in my heart for Andrew. First, because Andrew is the saint for whom the parish in Kansas City where I first acknowledged God’s call to ordained ministry is named. It is the place where my call was shaped and challenged, and the place where clergy and lay people helped me discern more fully the call I was hearing. I never hear the name Andrew that I do not see in my mind the beautiful stained glass window of Andrew high above the back of the nave there.

But there is another reason that Andrew holds a special place in my heart. I love Andrew, because he seems be the guy who over and over again brings people to Jesus.

It is often said that “it’s all who you know.” Connections are important, and John’s Gospel makes it clear that if you wanted to know Jesus, then it was good to know Andrew.

First, it was his brother Simon Peter – when Andrew told Simon that he had found the Messiah and then brought him to Jesus.

Then, it was a boy who had five barley loaves and two fish with him, when Jesus and his disciples were faced with thousands of hungry people and nothing with which to feed them. It was Andrew who said, “There is a little boy here..” and then connected that little boy to Jesus.

And, now it is Andrew who takes these Greeks who are seeking to see Jesus to the master.

Sir, we wish to see Jesus.

Sir, we want to see Jesus. Can you help us?

I have found myself wondering – If those Greeks (or others like them) were to show up here at All Saints his morning would they be granted their heart’s desire? Would they be able to see Jesus? Could we help them with their request?

If people came here today, with this request that these Greeks made, would they be able to see the Jesus who reveals the heart of a loving God by giving up all of himself and going to the cross? Would they see Jesus, whose love knows no boundaries? Would they see Jesus, whose table always has room for more? Would they see Jesus, who brought people into his work of ministry, who shared that ministry with them so they could share the love they had found?

Or, would they leave disappointed? Still seeking to see Jesus?

Of course, I would like to think that we, like Andrew, would point them to Jesus. Not that they would simply hear about Jesus (although that is important), but that they would truly see Jesus. That Jesus would be real for them in what they saw and experienced here at All Saints.

What does it mean to show people Jesus?

I think this is more than a passing question for a Sunday morning sermon. I think it is something for us to think seriously about – individually and as a congregation. Because how can we claim to be Christ’s body in the world – Christ’s eyes and ears, head and heart, feet and hands – if how we live does not show people Jesus?

Metropolitan Anthony Bloom, the Bishop of the Russian Orthodox Church in Britain and Ireland from 1957 to 2003, said that “We should try to live in such a way that if the Gospels were lost, they could be rewritten by looking at us.”

Following the example of Andrew who showed others the way to Jesus, may it be so with us.

AMEN.

Grace is the Last Word

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 18:33:58 GMT

"Grace is the Last Word"

Sermon by The Rev. Ranie Neislar

March 10, 2024

Our history with God is not linear. As a people of faith, we’ve had moments of doubt, questions, and wrong turns. Each one of us can look back on our own stories and see how we’ve made errors in judgement… we’ve stumbled along in the adventure of life. I’ve experienced quite a few of my own stumbling--seasons when it felt as if any goodness in my life had left me… and yet, great things, events that are born out of faith, continued to be made manifest in my life through a stubborn faith—the end of one marriage didn’t mark me as a failure in relationships forever, yes, I had doubts, but in time, through patience, prayer, and a lingering sense of hope, came a great, amazing love, more than I could have ever imagined in my husband, Worth. My path to ordination was not a simple, not an easy one step, two step, and done experience. I had plenty of zig-zags, moments of questioning, finally to culminate in ordination, a call to a wonderful parish in Huntsville, AL, and now, to another wonderful parish. Our lives are not linear, easy, simple consistent conversations with God, marked entirely with good ideas, faithfulness, and exemplary of good discipleship.

Yet, that doesn’t shake the surprise of God’s judgement of humanity, humans similar to us. On the face of it, in our sacred texts, God has judged the chosen people as sinful and in these Lenten texts, like the ones we hear this morning, that can leave an uncomfortable mark in our hearts, and a bad taste in our mouths, for we too also fall short of God’s hopes. But, of course there is good news for the chosen people, and for us, despite the truth of our fallen ways, God’s judgement of condemnation is not the final word in our stories. The good news is that despite the confusion, the hard conversations, our conversation with God doesn’t end with a condemnation to die and be slaves to sin, but to evolve through an ongoing conversation with God.

The people coming out of Egypt complain to God and Moses, they lose sight of God’s identity as a liberator and there are consequences to that… we have our own moments, when we lose sight of God’s identity and similarly experience consequences—perhaps not venomous snakes, but this is one of the truths of our story—when we lose sight of God’s identity, there will be consequences. It may be a loss of hope, and in our loss we make seek the easier paths or look to blame others for our lack, because when we forget the divine identity as the great Liberator, the faithful one, when we lose sight of that identity, we are tempted to act in ways that are not the ways of God. Again, I hope in your darkest seasons, when you have lost sight of the identity of God you have not had venomous snakes come after you, but at some point in our lives all of us have lost sight of God’s identity as the faithful one. As fallen creatures we experience the biting consequences of our inability to discern God as faithful, good, and loving. And even when we are beginning to sense our God again, the goodness, the faithfulness, it doesn’t always come easily… there are still stumbling blocks along the path, there are still events, temptations, on the adventure we are living out that draw our attentions.

Again, our individual, and our communal history as creations are not linear, but evolving… and in so many ways, that is a good thing… that is a good thing… because throughout that history, there has been a singular event that brings all these histories together, an event that marks all of our shortcomings, an event that surpasses our inability to maintain a sense of God’s identity, and is so succinctly put in our Gospel reading: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”

There are moments throughout Lent when the conviction of loss, the conviction of our Sin, our need to alter our ways of living that the heaviness that accompanies conviction can be overwhelming: our postures slide towards the incorrect inclination that we are doomed to live sinful lives, lives that consistently return to doubting the goodness of God, questioning the faithfulness of God, and our own ability to be faithful… I want to remind you of one thing, one thing that I hope sustains you through these hard moments of conviction, moments when we feel we have ultimately failed and will continue to do so… if I could write myself, all of us one sentence to endure hard moments, moments when we feel we are forever lost in the wilderness it would be this: “Dear Reader, God has already had the last conversation with you and it ended with grace.” That’s all. Every moment, every conversation, every wilderness season, all our most sinful, strayed moments are brought to the light through this one event, the event of God’s saving act in Jesus’s death and resurrection. This event defies time, moments of the past, the future, all time, all events, every person is reflected like a prism through this one event in history and through it we are presented as redeemed creations.

The hardest part, of our ongoing conversation with God, for the people in the wilderness, or our children, our grandchildren, and generations we will never know, the hardest part for us is accepting this judgement of grace, accepting that as much as we lose our way during the adventure of our lives, the conversation with God continues even when no words are spoken. Through months, years, decades of ignoring or outright defying the identity of God, God awaits our words, our mumblings, God remains a faithful conversation partner by sustaining our relationship. God prepares a table for us, in anticipation that we pull back to the table, and even through the generations, even if we never turn back to the conversation, God has proclaimed the last word, and it is grace.

The Rev. Ranie Neislar Says Thank You!

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:51:35 GMT

Dear all, I can not express how joyful my first two months here at All Saints have been. The generosity of the parish, of individuals through gifts, gift cards, and notes, and the lovely reception have left a deep impression on my heart--I already feel deeply molded by this community. Thank you for welcoming me so well! My family feels the love that you all share so fully!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Reception Committee

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:59:36 GMT

Receptions at All Saints bring our parishioners together in a vibrant community. We host four to five receptions annually, providing opportunities to welcome new clergy, honor sacraments, and strengthen our fellowship.

Join the Reception Committee to make these events happen. You'll team up with experienced volunteers to set up, serve, and clean up – a commitment of just a few hours on select Sunday mornings. It's an easy yet rewarding way to contribute to our church's warm, welcoming atmosphere.

For more information or to sign up, please contact Ginny May: ginmay@bellsouth.net

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Welcome to The Rev. Ranie Neislar

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 22:25:28 GMT

All Saints is proud to welcome The Rev. Ranie Neislar as our new Associate Rector! Ranie comes to us from St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Huntsville. Her first Sunday is March 10, 2024! We will have a welcome reception for her in the Great Hall between the morning services. This will be a “pounding” or “stock the pantry” for her - bring a pound of coffee, canned goods, baking needs, even gift cards to Publix or Target.

She is thrilled to serve All Saints and is ready to jump into the work of ministry with everyone in the parish community. Ranie grew up in Athens, GA, attended the University of Georgia, and is still a Bulldog through and through. She fell in love with The Episcopal Church while living in Augusta, GA after college and quickly started working for parishes in Augusta primarily working as a youth and young adult minister. After finishing seminary at Sewanee in May of 2020, Ranie took her first call at St. Thomas in Huntsville, AL.

While in Huntsville Ranie continued to hone her skills as a priest and met the love of her life! Ranie’s husband, Worth Stuart is also a priest and when they are not working you can find them enjoying long walks in the neighborhood or playing with their two dogs. Ranie also enjoys exercise of all kinds, live music with Worth, and gardening. She can’t wait to dive into the many facets of life at All Saints!

Meal Team Ministry

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 20:13:05 GMT

Delivering Love-One Meal at a Time

As we celebrate three years of our "Meal Team", we invite you to join this ministry! At All Saints, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, a little help goes a long way. That's why our Meal Team Ministry is dedicated to providing delicious, home-cooked meals to those who need it most. Whether you're recovering from an illness, grieving the loss of a loved one, adjusting to a new baby, or simply need a burden lifted, our team is here to support you. Our volunteers are the heart of this ministry, lovingly preparing meals and delivering them to many doorsteps.

If you would like to become a part of this ministry, have a referral or a question, you can connect with Michele Suttle ( moosack@bellsouth.net ), Pam Phillips ( pbphillips@bellsouth.net ) or Lisa Hallman( hallman.lisaw@gmail.com ).

Denying Ourself and Taking Up Our Cross

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:12:56 GMT

"Denying Ourself and Taking Up Our Cross"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

February 25, 2024

Mark’s Gospel recounts three times when Jesus predicted his own death and resurrection. Today we have the first of these, a prediction delivered to his disciples.

As we’ve heard it, our reading today includes Jesus’ first passion prediction, his disciples’ reaction to his prediction, and then a teaching - delivered to the gathered crowd and to his disciples – about what true discipleship looks like.

After Jesus made the prediction of his suffering, rejection, death and resurrection, I think it’s safe to say that his disciples’ reaction was surprise, perhaps shock, probably outright disbelief.

They were definitely not expecting a Messiah who would undergo such things. They were expecting a Messiah who would free them from the oppression of Rome and re-take the throne of David.

Perhaps they were asking themselves if they had made some very bad decisions in giving up homes, families, and jobs for a Messiah who was simply going to suffer, be rejected, and die.

And, the rising again part. Well, I doubt that even registered with them. It was just too unbelievable.

Peter even took Jesus aside – away from the others - and, in the words of scripture, “began to rebuke him.” Now, a dictionary definition of rebuke is “to express sharp, stern disapproval; …to reprimand.” So, we clearly get the idea about what was going on in that heated, private conversation between Jesus and Peter, and we heard the way Jesus very clearly responded to what Peter had to say.

But, then comes the teaching on discipleship that Jesus gives to his disciples and to the crowd that Jesus calls together.

If any want to be become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. (repeat)

I’ve thought a lot about that line this past week. What does it mean to deny ourselves and to take up our cross?

Well, I’ve come up with a couple of things that I don’t think it means and one thing that I think it does mean.

So, what does this instruction not mean?

First, I don’t think to deny ourselves means that we must deny who we are. Bishop Michael Curry has written, “…the call of God…is always a call to become the true you…someone made in the image of God.”

Bishop Curry then related a Jewish proverb. “Before every person there marches an angel proclaiming, ‘Behold the image of God.’”

I believe we were all meant to see that angel going before us and going before everyone we meet. I think we are all meant to see that angel every day when we look in the mirror.

We are indeed created in the very image of God, and becoming a disciple surely does not involve denying, or destroying who we were created to be. But rather, I believe that becoming a disciple always involves discovering our truest selves.

Second, I don’t believe that Jesus meant that denying ourselves is something that can be forced upon us. I don’t believe that denying ourselves means that we must submit ourselves to what some might call a “doormat theology,” ignoring our own basic human needs or seeing ourselves as not deserving of love and respect.

It is impossible for me to believe that the loving God who created us would want any of us to endure an abusive relationship or to tolerate injustice. Any cross we are forced by others to carry is not a cross we are meant to carry. That wouldn’t be true discipleship.

Denying ourself and carrying our cross must be voluntary on our part, just as Jesus’ cross was something he submitted to willingly.

So, denying ourselves and taking up our cross doesn’t mean denying who we are created to be. And, denying ourselves and taking up our cross aren’t things that can be forced upon us.

So, what does it mean to deny ourselves and take up our cross if we want to follow Jesus? What does true discipleship look like?

This week I came across a brief piece written by one of my favorite preachers and commentators, David Lose. It was titled, “The Theory of Everything.”

For me, it answered the question of what it means to deny ourself and carry our cross in a way that helped me understand better what true discipleship looks like. David Lose wrote that denying ourself, carrying our cross, following Jesus happens when we “surrender our claims to power and strength and glory to serve others.” Becoming a disciple involves making ourselves vulnerable, giving love to others, getting out of our own way, seeking not what we want but what the world needs.

When our lives look more and more like this, we find that we make more connections with people around us. People we might never have expected to be connected with. People like us and people not like us.

And, it is those connections that help build community. Something I think is incredibly important to a life of discipleship, because I don’t think we can follow Jesus alone.

It is also those connections that keep us engaged with the world. And, how can we possibly know the needs of the world, if we aren’t connected to the world?

Of course, being in community and engaging with the world are not always easy. They require sacrifice and they can even cause suffering and pain for us. But, as David Lose wrote, when we stop worrying about our own wants, when we deny ourselves for the sake of others, then we find more than we could have ever imagined. More life, more joy, more sharing of burdens, more love. Connectedness. Community. Engagement.

That is why he called it the “theory of everything,” the more we give, the more we receive; the more we seek to be a friend, the more friends we will discover; the more we love, the more we are loved.

It is the way Jesus lived his life. It is the way of generous, self-giving love. My friends, it is the way we are called to follow.

AMEN.

Name Tag Sunday

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 01:38:49 GMT

Have you ever seen a familiar face down the pew and just could not remember the person’s name? Have you seen a newcomer at church and wanted an easy entrée to introduce yourself to them? Wearing name tame tags can help us get to know one another, as well as our visitors and new members, better. On the third Sunday of each month, the "Invite-Welcome-Connect" committee invites everyone to wear a name tag, which will be available as you enter the church. We hope you will want to be part of this effort to help all of us feel more at home in our wonderful parish.

(Pysanky) Decorate Ukrainian Eggs

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 18:47:38 GMT

Discover the art of decorating Ukrainian Easter Eggs, also known as Pysanky, on either March 10th or 17th from 2:00 to 3:30 in the Great Hall. All skill levels are welcome, including beginners. This unique technique involves candles and melted beeswax, making it suitable for individuals aged 16 and older, and for 12 to 15 year olds accompanied by an adult. A $10 materials fee applies, and space is limited. For reservations or inquiries, reach out to Martha Bains at martha_bains@yahoo.com .

Be Still & Know That I Am God

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 17:09:49 GMT

"Be Still & Know That I Am God"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

February 18, 2024

What if Lent is not about us wrestling with our own personal devils and more about finding a God who can? I don't know about you, but so many times I want to pray more. I want to serve more. I want to love more, do more, be more. Only to find myself stretched so thin that I'm of little real use to anyone. But instead, if we follow Jesus into those quiet places, perhaps into our own wilderness, those rare moments of quiet, fully aware to God's presence with us, we'll find that God is still speaking in that still small voice saying, be still and know that I am still God. So you don't have to be.

An Invitation

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 23:22:33 GMT

"An Invitation"

Ash Wednesday Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

February 14, 2024

This evening, you and I are being offered a gracious invitation. It's not an invitation to walk around feeling vaguely guilty. It's not an invitation to living your best life. This Lent, it is an invitation to a holy season where you and I begin to orient our hearts towards God. Given this gracious invitation, I wonder how is it that we will respond?

A Savior Worthy of Worship

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:28:24 GMT

"A Savior Worthy of Worship"

Sermon by Guest Preacher, The Rev. Dr. Tyshawn Gardner

February 11, 2024

God is loving! He's loving & kind. God is a God of mercy. He is a God of justice. He's a God of liberation. We must conform our imagination to what God says about himself. A savior worthy of worship calls us to Christ imitating actions of love and service for all people at all times.

Lent Study

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 14:44:27 GMT

Beginning Tuesday, February 13th , everyone is welcome to be a part of a Lenten study featuring Dr. Catherine Meeks' book, "The Night is Long, but Light Comes in the Morning - Meditations for Racial Healing" . You can purchase the book HERE or at local book stores. Facilitated by Erin Hollifield and Memily Colvin, this study is part of the "One Diocese, One Book" program for Lent 2024. Be sure to pick up study guides that are in the kitchen by the Jackson-Thorpe room and participants are asked to go ahead and do the first seven meditations,

We'll gather in the Jackson-Thorpe room on Tuesday evenings at 6:00pm for enriching discussions lasting an hour to an hour and a half. If you have any questions or need transportation, connect with Erin ( erinph9@aolcom ) or Memily ( memily.colvin@gmail.com ).

Soup for the Soul Lent Series

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 20:22:30 GMT

Change Your Mind and Trust

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 18:51:18 GMT

"Change Your Mind and Trust"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

February 4, 2024

That is the main message of Jesus, repent and believe. Whereas another translation I prefer puts it, change your mind and trust. Trust that the Kingdom of God is as close as your next breath. All of Jesus is teaching, all of Jesus's healings. Any of His other miracles derive from that main message. Trust that the Kingdom of God has come near.

Guest Preacher This Sunday

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 02:35:57 GMT

All Saints is welcoming a guest preacher this Sunday, February 11th at our 8:30am and 11:00am services ! Tyshawn Gardner is an Associate Professor, a Preministerial Scholars Director, teaching Biblical and Religious Studies at the Howard College of Arts and Sciences at Samford University.

Tyshawn joined the Department of Biblical and Religious Studies in 2022 as an associate professor and the Director of the Preministerial Scholars Program. Previously he served as the senior pastor of the Plum Grove Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, as the vice president for student affairs at Stillman College, and as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Alabama and at Beeson Divinity School. He is also a U.S. Navy veteran who served in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Read more about him here: https://bit.ly/3w77JVT

Authentic

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 20:46:15 GMT

"Authentic"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

January 28, 2024

Last Sunday’s Gospel reading told us the story of Jesus calling Andrew, Simon (later renamed Peter), James, and John as they did their fishing business on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus called them to leave their fishing boats and to become fishers for people.

Today we find Jesus, along with his followers, in the town of Capernaum, a town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, which would become the center of Jesus ministry.

…when the sabbath came, (Jesus) entered the synagogue and taught.

If you’ve ever visited the ancient site of Capernaum, you know there are the remains of a synagogue there. Now, these remains are dated as a synagogue built around the 4th or 5th century. But, it has been suggested by some scholars that there is another foundation under these remains.

The foundation of perhaps a synagogue from the 1st century, perhaps the one mentioned in Mark’s Gospel. Perhaps the synagogue in which Jesus preached.

Now, I don’t know whether those remains in Capernaum are actually the exact place where Jesus preached (and scholars have disagreed). But, I do know the feeling I have had when I have been in that place. It is hard to describe, perhaps the best way to describe it is “yearning.” Being there causes me to yearn to hear Jesus preach that day.

There is something else we hear in our Gospel reading today that causes a yearning, a desire, in me.

…when the Sabbath came, (Jesus) entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching…they were astounded at his teaching.

So, what was it that was so astounding? What was it that Jesus said that day in the synagogue? Wouldn’t you like to know what Jesus said that was so astounding? I know I would.

But, the writer of Mark’s Gospel didn’t tell us what it was that Jesus said that day. In one of the first moments of Jesus’ public ministry, as recorded in Mark - in this moment when the gospel tells us that whatever it was that he taught simply astounded those who heard it - well, we are not told what Jesus said that day in the synagogue.

The Gospel of Mark called Jesus a “teacher” many times (13 times, if I’ve counted correctly). And, Mark used words like “astounded” and “amazed” a lot to describe the reaction of those who heard Jesus’ teaching.

But, Mark didn’t tell us much at all about what Jesus actually said when he was teaching.

In Mark, we find no “Sermon on the Mount” or other long teaching discourses as we find in the Gospel of Matthew. In Mark, we find no long parable stories, like the story of the Prodigal Son or the story of the Good Samaritan, as we find in Luke. In Mark, we find no extended teaching on the bread of life, as we find in John.

So, what does Mark tell us about Jesus?

Well, Mark tells a lot of stories about Jesus like the story of the exorcism of the man with the unclean spirit that we heard today. Some writers have called these stories of Jesus’ “deeds of power.”

If you’ve ever read the Gospel of Mark straight through, you know that these stories come fast and furious in Mark – Jesus performs an exorcism, Jesus heals Simon’s mother-in-law, Jesus cleanses a leper, heals a paralytic, restores a withered hand. And, that’s just in the first three chapters of the Gospel.

So, what is Mark trying to tell us about Jesus?

Jesus – the teacher who astounded and amazed people with his teaching. Jesus – who did deeds of power. If you have the Order of Service handy, I want you to look for a moment at today’s Gospel reading.

The reading has two “sections,” if you will. The first one described Jesus teaching in the synagogue. The second described Jesus exorcising an unclean spirit. But, the description of Jesus is the same in both sections.

Jesus taught them as one having authority. A new teaching – with authority!

You see, I think Mark was telling us that the words Jesus spoke as he taught were totally reflected in how he lived, how he ministered to those around him. Those deeds of power weren’t just parlor tricks to captivate the audience or razzle-dazzle to impress people.

No, if you knew what Jesus did, who he was, then you knew everything about what Jesus taught. Jesus’ deeds of power were part and parcel of Jesus’ teaching.

Jesus taught as one with authority. A kind of authority that everyone around him recognized. A kind of authority that grew out of the fact that Jesus’ words and Jesus’ actions matched.

Jesus was one who was completely authentic. He was credible, trustworthy, genuine, “the real deal.” I think Mark was telling us - if you want to know the words Jesus taught, then look at the deeds he performed.

Jesus just didn’t say “the kingdom of God has come near.” Jesus just didn’t say there was “good news.” No, Jesus lived the values of the Kingdom. Jesus was Good News.

Good news about a kingdom where healing, reconciliation, and forgiveness are always the operating principles and where all are loved, especially those who are poor and on the edges of society. Good news about a kingdom where people are more important than religious rules. Good news about a kingdom where little children are models for how to live and foreigners are models of faith.

In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus himself is the content of the teaching. His authority is not in particular lectures or sermons but in his particular life.

Now, I don’t think God calls us to be Jesus. And, for that I am grateful. Because, I don’t have a chance, if that is what God expects of me.

However, I do believe God calls me, calls us, to be like Jesus. To follow him, to use him as our model, to live by his teachings.

And, God calls us to be authentic, just as Jesus was authentic. To live with a kind of authority that isn’t based on how strong our verbal skills are or how much force we can bring to bear on those around us.

God calls us – as individuals and as a parish - to live lives where our words and our actions match. Not just to talk about the Good News, but to be the Good News.

Now, taking on a job like that is risky, even dangerous, because we aren’t Jesus. We are going to mess up. We are going to have moments, maybe even a whole lots of moments, where our words don’t match our actions. I don’t know about you, but I know there have been many times when “inauthentic” was a pretty good description of me.

To take on a job like that we are going to need a community around us to support us, to encourage us, to hold us accountable, and to love us even when we mess up. A community like the church when it is at its best.

At times, we will have to confess our lack of authenticity to ourselves, to each other, and to God. And, when those times occur, we can be assured that healing and reconciliation, forgiveness and love are still the operating principles of the Kingdom we call home.

I believe the world is dying to find authenticity. To find people and a place where words match actions. To be able to know what we say by looking at what we do. I believe the world is dying for Good News.

My friends, we believe that the Kingdom of God has come near. May our lives - our words and our actions – be Good News to that dying world.

AMEN.

Are We Present With God?

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:33:02 GMT

"Are We Present With God"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

January 21, 2024

It could be Bible study, it could be music, it could be singing, it could be a walk in the woods. There are endless things, but I want to know what it is that helps you to be attentive to yourself, to be attentive to those around you, and most importantly, to be attentive to God. To remember the question is not whether or not God is present. The question is, are we?

You Are My Child, the Beloved

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 20:34:23 GMT

"You Are My Child, the Beloved"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

January 7, 2024

Today is the first Sunday of the season after the Epiphany. In the church calendar, this is a season of variable length, determined by when Easter will be celebrated. Some years the season is short and some years it is longer. Just yesterday, I learned from a piece written by parishioner David Baines, that in ancient times before printed calendars, the date of Easter would be officially announced at the Feast of the Epiphany, which we celebrated yesterday.

This year Easter occurs on March 31st. So, Epiphany season this year will include six Sundays, concluding with Transfiguration Sunday in early-February. Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, will come the following week (on February 14th).

Epiphanytide is the time when we focus our attention on the revealing of Christ to the nations, to all people. Yesterday, we heard the story of the coming of the wise men, magi, from the East, who followed the star to find the child Jesus. They were Gentiles who came to worship the new king. The first indication that this child, this one born to the house of David, was Messiah for all nations, for Jews and Gentiles alike.

Now, today we have heard the story of the Baptism of Christ. But, Mark’s story of the baptism is a bit different than what we read in the other gospels.

You see, in Mark’s Gospel, the revealing of Jesus as God’s son, the beloved, seems to be a revelation for Jesus alone. The tearing open of the heavens, the Spirit descending like a dove, the voice from heaven appear to be seen and heard by Jesus alone. Not an announcement to the crowd gathered around, as far as we can tell not even an announcement seen and heard by John the Baptist. Only Jesus.

This story of Jesus’ baptism, the one we have read from Mark’s Gospel, is all about identity. A moment when Jesus was made aware that he was the Son of the Father, the Beloved, the one in whom the Father took great delight.

Now, today, the time when we remember the Baptism of Christ, is considered an appropriate day for baptisms to occur in the church. In churches everywhere, children and adults will be baptized.

Here at All Saints Church during the 11 o’clock worship service, Marlowe and Libby will receive the sacrament of Holy Baptism today. And, I would like to suggest that what will done here today is all about identity. It is about who we Marlowe and Libby are and whose they are. It is about who all the baptized are and whose we are.

In a few moments, Brad will splash the water of baptism on these precious girls’ heads and then make the sign of the cross on their foreheads with sacred oil, blessed by our Bishop. And, he will tell them that they are sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked as Christ’s own forever.

Sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked as Christ’s own forever. That will be their identity, as it is the identity of all of us who have passed through the waters of baptism. Amazing, isn’t it?

It’s as if, as one writer put it, Marlowe and Libby will be sealed with the imago Christi, the image of Christ, a permanent, invisible tattoo. That cross etched on their foreheads forever.

And, as that seal is placed there, as that identity is established, the Father will recognize them as sisters of Christ, children in the Father’s family, bearing the image, the family resemblance if you will, of Jesus their older brother. And, the powerful voice of God will say, “Libby, Marlowe, you are my daughter, my beloved, and I take great delight in you.”

Now, as all of us who have lived the Christian life for very long can attest, Marlowe and Libby will hear lots of other voices calling out to the, during her lives. Other voices that will demand their attention and try to tell them who they are. Those voices will try to shape their self-perception. Those voices will try to influence the choices they will make, the way they interpret their past and their future.

These other voices will try to get them to forget their true identity, to forget that they bear the image of Christ, to forget that they are the beloved and that God takes great delight in them. One writer has named this forgetfulness “spiritual amnesia.”

I have to say that I’ve heard those voices. And, if I’m honest with you and with myself, I must admit that I’ve listened to them at times. I’ve let those voices tell me who I am, I’ve let those voices shape how I view the world around me, and I’ve forgotten my true identity. I know what it is to suffer from “spiritual amnesia.”

Maybe you’ve listened to those voices. Maybe you’ve had “spiritual amnesia,” too.

But, the good news for Marlowe and for Libby and for all of us here today is that there is an antidote, a remedy that can counter spiritual amnesia. I believe that antidote, that remedy, is the remembrance of our baptism.

That’s why we renew our baptismal covenant each time someone is baptized. That’s why sometimes we renew our baptismal covenant here in worship even when someone isn’t being baptized. That’s why our baptismal covenant is printed in our prayer book, so we can read it whenever we feel like a case of spiritual amnesia might be coming on.

That’s why the font sits right here in the front of the space where we worship. Right here as we come to this altar.

Every time I walk past this font, every time I touch the water it holds, I am reminded that my identity in Christ is secure - no matter what those other voices say. I am reminded that God’s creative force in still at work in me, God’s love still holds me.

As I look into the water there, I can see that cross right there on my forehead, the imago Christi, and I know that I remain God’s beloved even when I may forget who I am and whose I am.

And, as I say or read those familiar words from the baptismal covenant, I hear the powerful voice of God – that voice described by the Psalmist, the voice that can split trees and shake mountains – that voice saying tenderly to me, “Cindy, you are my child. You are my beloved. I take great delight in you.”

As you see this font, as you look into the water there, as you touch it when you pass by, as you say or read the words of the baptismal covenant, know that God loves you, God cares for you.

And, hear the powerful voice of the Father saying, “You are my beloved child. Sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked as Christ’s own forever. In you, I take great delight.”

AMEN.

Expect Little, Celebrate Much

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 20:08:18 GMT

"Expect Little, Celebrate Much"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

December 31, 2023

May you give yourself the gift of really low expectations in 2024. Not out of resignation, but out of generosity. May you expect so little of yourself that you can be super proud of the smallest of accomplishments, that you expect so little of the people in your life that you actually notice and cherish every small, loving thing about them.

Level 1 Atrium Training

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 02:18:58 GMT

Level I Atrium Training for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is about to begin! It will run every Friday from 9:00am - 12:00pm at St Mary's Episcopal Church, Jan 19 - May 10, and Sept 6 - Dec 13 . Please contact Kathleen Busbee ( kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org ) for more information.

Who Are You?

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:27:58 GMT

"Who Are You?"

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

December 17, 2023

Holy God, the Word made flesh, the light in the darkness, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

There’s a meme that has been circling around my social media feeds for the last week. Jesus is coming up out of the baptismal waters of the River Jordan. John the Baptist is holding the soaked Jesus who is clad in an all-white vestment. Above the two are Jesus’ words: “You could have just poured some water over my head without trying to drown me!” To which, John replied: “Sorry, man, but I’m John the Baptist. You must have been looking for John the Episcopalian.”

This is funny, right? And, not only because it pokes fun at our own religious sensibilities—even if we at All Saints utilized a baptismal pool at the Easter Vigil earlier this year. This joke also makes me chuckle because it points towards how John is portrayed in Holy Scripture and beyond. More on that in a moment, but first I have a question.

Who are you? It’s one of the most important questions we ever ponder throughout our lives. If I were to ask you to answer this now, how would you reply?

Often when I respond to this question about my identity, I end up talking about the roles I fulfill in life, instead of who I am. It’s easy to do, our roles are important. Yes, I am a child, a sibling, a spouse, a parent, a friend, a clergy person, a neighbor, etc., but these roles are not all I am.

John the Episcopalian… I mean Baptist knew this—even though we can’t even talk about him without saying what his role was. Still, if we look closer at John, his portrayal in the Gospel accounts, and how he responded to this important question of “who are you?”, we will discover something of crucial importance about our true identities.

Now, a few weeks ago, I mentioned my New Testament professor, the Very Rev. Dr. Cynthia Kittredge, and that she warned my seminary class about making Gospel Stew—when we mix together the four canonical accounts of Christ Jesus’ earthly ministry. Professor Kittredge was wise for instructing soon-to-be clergy to stay away from crossing the Gospel streams to form one, unified version. I believe this because when faithfully reading these different accounts, we discover they are so drastically different, which we can clearly see when examining the character of John who appears in all four Gospel accounts.

In Mark, John was the Baptizer. He dunked Jesus in the mysterious, bap-tismal waters, he was arrested, he intrigued Herod, but was later beheaded by the political leader before his disciples buried him.

In Matthew, John was the Baptist. His message was of fiery repentance. He was confrontational to the religious leaders of the day. Matthew depicted John as one who was curious about Jesus’ mission and the former gave way to the latter upon hearing about the fruits of his work. Again, Herod took John’s life.

In Luke, John was not described as baptizer or the Baptist, but instead was situated within his family—he was the Son of the Temple Priest Zechariah. He leapt in his mother Elizabeth’s womb when the pregnant Mary came to visit her relative. As an adult, John went into the wilderness to proclaim a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Like the other synoptic Gospels (Matthew and Mark), Luke employed a flashback sequence to explain how Herod, under political pressure, beheaded the prophet John.

In John’s Gospel account though, John “the Baptist” does no baptizing, at least not to Jesus. Instead, John here has a different role. He is John the witness. As you may recall, the Gospel according to John begins with a cosmic hymn about the Christ. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Christ was the Word through whom all things came into being—Christ was the light, which no darkness could extinguish.

Strangely in the middle of this beautiful hymn about Christ there’s a mention of a man name John. The cosmic song delineates that John was not God, nor the word, nor the light. We heard this as the beginning of today’s Gospel lesson: “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.” We can see John’s role as witness here. As one scholar put it, “The principal vocation of John in this Gospel then is to bear witness, a verb that occurs thirty-three times in the Fourth Gospel and only twice in the entirety of the Synoptic Gospels.” [1] John not the baptizer, nor the Baptist, nor the son of Elizabeth and Zechariah, but John the Witness. This was his role, but what about the deeper question of his identity? Let’s see how John answered the question, “Who are you?”

John was asked by the religious leaders of his day this question. It’s remarkable that John’s movement of baptism and repentance was raising enough of a fuss that those in power came to wonder what was going on out in the wilderness. However, when asked, “Who are you?” John avoided one of the greatest temptations all of us face. Instead of hogging undue credit or speaking more highly than was warranted, John knew exactly who he was and who he wasn’t. He was not the Messiah, he was not Elijah, nor was he a prophet. So, the religious authorities as well as the band the Who really want to know… “Who are you?” (who who, who who!)

The reply to this question about identity points back to words from Isaiah, and as Cindy pointed out last week, the prophet we describe as Second Isaiah. John utilized the prophetic words, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord.’” When pushed to talk about if he was just this voice out in the wilderness, then why was he baptizing, John revealed that his identity was not merely attached to his role, either as witness or baptizer. At his core the most important thing to John was his relationship with the one to come.

John’s identity grew from his connection to God and to the Christ. He knew at the core of who he was that his whole life was to point to the one who was before him and was coming after him—paradoxical, right? Who John was could not simply be answered with a role like witness or Baptist, but instead his essence emanated from his relationship with God. This truth is not unique to John. Next Sunday, we will hear something very similar in the witness of Mary the Godbearer. And, this is true of our own lives.

When asked about who we are, we might start with the roles we play, the work we do, or the principles we adhere to in this life; however, what is of more importance are the relationships we form—and primarily the relationships we have with God, neighbor, and self. The Ubuntu theology, which emerges out of Africa, puts this very succinctly—I am because we are. Who I am cannot be untangled from who we are. Despite the best efforts of our society to make everything about the individual, what matters most is how God unites us all one to another.

Speaking of being united one to another, I have been gifted with the past five years of ministry here at All Saints. For this time, I will forever be grateful. And while I have served in a role as your priest, as the Associate Rector, the role is only part of the larger truth. I am because we are. Despite my ever-nearing departure from this role, what gives me hope, strength, and solace, is that no matter how far away we might be geographically (and I am only going to Hoover, friends), we are all forever united in Christ.

That’s the truth! Somehow mystically, we will be forever one. In the mystery of Holy Baptism, we are grafted into the Body of Christ, adopted as God’s children, and marked as Christ’s own forever. When we share in the Body and Blood at God’s altar table, we are again united, as we live into the saying: you are what you eat—we eat and become the Body of Christ. Thus through these sacraments, we can never be separated. And, we will always be united in our truest identity: God’s beloveds.

So, as we move through this next week towards the wonder of Christ’s Incarnation in Jesus of Nazareth, as we spend the seven days ahead holding onto the truth of Advent—that God is coming to us, as we prepare ourselves to receive the Christ child, may we remember who we truly are—God’s beloveds. As one of my mentors, the Rev. Annwn Myers, is fond of saying—Remember who you are and whose you are. You are God’s beloved and for you I say, “Thanks be to God.” Amen.

The Promise of Advent

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 16:30:12 GMT

"The Promise of Advent"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

December 10, 2023

Our reading from the Hebrew scriptures today opens the part of the book that has been attributed to an anonymous prophet, usually given the name Second Isaiah. While we know little about the prophet, we do know that it was a difficult time indeed for God’s people. It was a time of defeat and exile.

In its wars with the Babylonians, Judah had been overwhelmingly defeated. In the initial Babylonian war, Judah’s capital city had been captured. The king, his family, and many others had been deported to Babylon.

Ten years later, Judah was again at war with the Babylonians. This time, Jerusalem had been destroyed, and its walls leveled. The Temple, the center of what it meant to be God’s people, the basis of their identity as a people, had been burned. The Davidic family was removed from the throne and more Judeans were taken from their homeland and deported.

Could things have been more miserable for God’s people? Could things have been more hopeless? Could God’s peoples’ sense of abandonment been greater?

But, God has a new message for God’s suffering people. And, today we’ve heard about this anonymous prophet’s commissioning to deliver this new message.

Comfort, O comfort my people.

Now, those words probably sound familiar to us as we’ve sung them in a beloved Advent hymn or as we’ve heard them sung by a clear tenor voice in Messiah. But we shouldn’t get too warm and cozy with them. As one commentator has written, these words are more than a “quaint…decoration for the holiday season.” They are a “bold declaration about the character of God offered to a demoralized people.”

In our reading today, we see a council of the heavenly hosts, assembled before God, as an end to strife and forgiveness of the peoples’ sins are divinely pronounced. God’s will is for comfort and consolation to people who have been in the depths of despair and hopelessness.

In response to God’s imperative for comfort and consolation, a voice in the heavenly assembly called for a straight, level highway to be constructed so that the exiles can return home from Babylon. The exiles’ return would reveal God’s glory for all to see.

Then another voice in the assembly proclaimed that God’s declarations are firm. God’s promises are eternal, unlike the fleeting, fading promises of human beings.

But a human voice was needed – needed to deliver the message to God’s people. From God and the heavenly assembly, we hear the words –

Herald of good tidings…lift up your voice with strength…do not fear.

We know that the time Judah’s exile would truly end soon, just as promised. The Persian ruler Cyrus would conquer the Babylonian Empire and send the exiles home.

We don’t know much about this anonymous prophet called Second Isaiah, but we do know about this message of comfort and consolation, forgiveness and restoration, return and hope, that was given by God to be shared with all.

It is a message we have heard from prophetic human voices in different times and different places. It is a message we will hear in voices during the Advent season, in the voices of John the Baptizer and a young woman named Mary.

I believe that we, as individual followers of Jesus and as the church, are commissioned to share this message in our time and in our place. Hu man voices are still needed to share God’s message, just as the voice of Second Isaiah was needed. We are commissioned and empowered to share the message of God’s fierce love, this one who comes with might.

We are commissioned and empowered to share the message of God’s tender compassion, this one who comes with the gentleness of a shepherd tending a flock.

We are commissioned and empowered to speak words of comfort and consolation, forgiveness and restoration, return and hope, to anyone who feels separated and abandoned by God.

Herald of good tidings…lift up your voice with strength…do not fear.

The promise of Advent is that God will come.

AMEN.

Advent Books

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 18:12:54 GMT

Advent Books from the Taylor Abbot Library

Enrich your Advent season of hope, peace, love, and joy with a book from the Taylor Abbot Library. Check out one of the many Advent books available in the book display in the church cloister. Find children's Advent books in the Atrium check-in area to take home for some special family time. In the midst of the hurry and busyness of the season, we hope you will find quiet and prayerful anticipation within the pages of an Advent book.

Let Us Keep Awake

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:22:53 GMT

"Let Us Keep Awake"

Sermon by The Reverend Brad Landry

December 3, 2023

That time could come at any moment, when God will come and make all things right with the world. In the meantime, we pray for the hungry and then we feed them. That is how prayer works. We pray for the lonely and then we go and visit them. This is how prayer works. We find those places of darkness. And then we take that light. This is how prayer works. This is how God begins to make all things right in the world. That God's will might be done on Earth as it is in heaven.

Celebrating Our King

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 18:45:37 GMT

"Celebrating Our King"

Sermon by The Reverend Cindy Carter

November 26, 2023

Several years ago, right after Christmas, my friends Tim and Suzi handed me a copy of a book titled Just Mercy. The author was named Bryan Stevenson. As they handed it to me, they said, “You need to read this book.”

I promptly took the book home and placed it in the stack of other books I “need to read” some time. And, to be honest, I sort of forgot about it for a while.

Sometime into the new year, I had an opportunity to visit my friend Jimmy, who was a prisoner at Fountain Prison in Atmore, for the first time. I won’t bore you with the details of my visit. For those of you who want details, just let me know.

Let’s just say that it was eye opening. I learned quickly that I was not “prison savvy.” I learned quickly that prison, even if you are only visiting, can be a demeaning and dehumanizing experience. I learned quickly that prisoner and visitor have more in common than one might think.

When I left Fountain Prison that day, I could not get home fast enough to find that book Tim and Suzi had given me. You see I knew that Bryan Stevenson and the organization he founded, the Equal Justice Initiative, works with the criminal justice system, works with prisoners who were wrongly accused, works with child prisoners.

I knew I had to read that book. I guess my firends Tim and Suzi had been right all along.

I will always remember when I finished it. It was during Holy Week, after I got home from our Maundy Thursday service. I will never forget it.

In a TED talk that Bryan Stevenson did and in many of his public speeches, he has said that, if you want to change the world, there are several things you need to do.

The first of these is that you have to get proximate to problems. You can’t help solve the world’s problems at a distance. You have to get up close and personal.

You have to give food and drink to hungry and thirsty people; you have to welcome strangers; you have to give clothing to naked people; you have to take care of sick people and visit people in prison.

He also says that you sometimes have to do uncomfortable things. And, we all know that doing the things that I just read, the things Jesus mentioned in this parable, can be pretty darned uncomfortable.

My visit with Jimmy brought me up close and personal with a world and people I frankly knew nothing about, and it was definitely uncomfortable.

It caused me to want to read a book that I might never have picked up again, even though dear friends had given it to me. And, while I may never change the world, that proximate, uncomfortable experience has taken me down paths I would never have imagined. Now, I definitely want to change the world for people like Jimmy.

Bryan Stevenson is certainly right about what it takes to change in the world, because you have to start somewhere. You have to be willing to get up close and personal with people and situations that might be very unfamiliar, and you have to be willing to do some pretty uncomfortable things.

Jesus also knew that’s how you change the world.

But, I think there is something else that Jesus knew. Jesus knew that when we do these things we open up ourselves to being changed. We become vulnerable so that we can be transformed.

I believe that experiencing up close a person who is hungry or thirsty, naked or a stranger, sick or in prison, as a friend, as someone not unlike our ourselves, expands our vision of humanity and of God. It expands our vision of who we are as children of God. Showing grace to others changes us.

I know that when I’ve shown grace to another person, no matter how small that act of grace, I have been blessed and I have been changed. These gifts of grace have opened hard, stony places in my heart I didn’t even know were there.

I met my friend Debra a number of years ago when she attended what we called our “When Christmas Feels Blue” service about a week before Christmas in the parish where I served before my retirement. She had been invited to come by one of her friends who was a member of the parish.

You see Debra had not too long before experienced the loss of her father. He had been brutally murdered in his home just outside town. Debra was grieving and searching and questioning and, with that invitation, found her way to us.

And, she never left our parish after that evening. She became a member, was confirmed, has served as senior warden.

Debra is also a dedicated volunteer in the parish’s Rice and Beans Ministry, among the many ways she serves there. One Saturday each month, food is distributed and a hot home-cooked breakfast is served to anyone who shows up. No names are taken, and no paperwork is required. You just have to show up.

One Saturday morning, as I walked through the kitchen behind the serving line where she was standing behind very big pan of scrambled eggs, Debra asked me if I had a minute. In that minute, she told me that she had just served breakfast to the mother of the man who was her father’s murderer.

At that moment, Debra was shocked, confused, and pretty unsure of what was going on. All she knew is that she had looked at that woman and put scrambled eggs on her plate.

But, she now says that as the days and weeks passed, when she was able to process what had happened, she knew that it was a moment of grace, a moment when God began to show her that forgiveness was possible.

Up close and personal -yes. Uncomfortable – absolutely. And, in that unexpected moment of grace, transformation began for my friend Debra.

Today, we celebrate “Christ the King Sunday.” We celebrate a king who said that his kingdom in not like the kingdoms of this world. A king who doesn’t want to preserve the world the way it is, but to change it - so it is more like his kingdom. A kingdom that is full of justice and compassion and love.

A king who doesn’t want us to stay the way we are, but to change us, to transform us – so that we are more like him. People of justice and compassion and love.

A king who is more interested in the hungry and thirsty, the naked and the stranger, the sick and the prisoner than in the full and the powerful. A king who is more interested in making us vulnerable and sensitive and open to change than in keeping us as we are.

Today, we celebrate a king who spoke with a lonely, sad, thirsty woman, a Samaritan no less, a stranger to him in every way possible, and offered her living water.

Today, we celebrate a king who filled a basin with water, tied a towel around his waist, knelt down, and washed the feet of his weary disciples.

My friends, today we celebrate a king whose throne was a cross. AMEN.

EYC Candle Sale

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 17:57:54 GMT

Our youth program is offering All Saints candles for a suggested donation of $25. It will also come with an All Saints match box.

If you would like to purchase a candle, connect with Grace Turner, gturner@allsaintsbhm.org . You can pay via cash, check, or realm.

Tri-Fold Bulletins

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 16:18:11 GMT

Beginning Sunday, December 3rd, the First Sunday of Advent, we will return to our abbreviated order of service bulletin for Sunday worship. As you may recall, the tri-fold order of service includes page numbers so you may participate in worship using The Book of Common Prayer and The Hymnal 1982. This change will have a huge impact on our weekly paper consumption and allow us to be better stewards of our environment. It will also allow us to return to the full use of The Book of Common Prayer and the opportunity to become more familiar with our Episcopal style of worship.

Christmas Flowers

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 18:08:03 GMT

If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Flower Fund in memory or thanksgiving of a loved one, please fill out the form HERE .

Contributions are $25. You may pay through Realm or send a check directly to the church office. Please remember to write “Christmas Memorial Flowers” in the memo section of the check or choose the "Christmas Memorial Flowers" fund through Realm so the contribution will be directed to the right fund. The deadline for memorials is Tuesday, December 19th.

Sawyerville Baskets of Abundance

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:42:28 GMT

Help out this holiday season! Support the Sawyerville Christmas Ministry: Baskets of Abundance and Sawyerville Christmas Party. We are asking for sponsorships of $125 or donations of any size to provide a "Basket of Abundance" and a Christmas party for our Hale County neighbors.

Sawyerville Christmas Ministry has been a two part ministry in Hale County during the month of December for many years. With the leadership of Susanna Whitsett, Ada Webb, Horseshoe Farms and churches, the Sawyerville Christmas Ministry has served cancer survivors, seniors and those with special needs by providing a basket full of food and an electric blanket. Sawyerville summer campers and staff gather at Greensboro Elementary School for an afternoon of games, singing, making Christmas cards and gifts at our annual Christmas Party. This year both ministries will happen on the same day and we are asking for your generosity of spirit as we all prepare for the Advent season and look towards the coming of Christ.

This is a Direct ministry open to parishes, reunion groups, Sunday school classes, book groups, families, youth groups, supper clubs, and individuals. Please help us stock the pantry and warm the homes of 100 friends in Hale County!

If you have any questions, reach out to Susanna Whitsett, swhitsett@saint-lukes.com

All Saints Has Talent

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:37:41 GMT

"All Saints Has Talent"

Sermon by The Reverend Seth Olson

November 19, 2023

Wednesday night was a little quiet compared to many midweek evenings at All Saints. Choirs were rehearsing. The Atria were open. Our men’s group was meeting. A few chefs had prepared a delicious dinner. I was about to head to the Jackson-Thorpe Room when I saw Jak Karn.

Jak was adorned in an apron, rubber gloves, and a ball cap. He grinned when he saw me. As he shuttled the dirty dishes into the kitchen to be cleaned, I offered my thanks for his contribution to the evening. Before my class would end, the entire kitchen and Great Hall would be cleaned—in no small part, thanks to Jak. As my words of gratitude landed upon Jak, his smile widened. “I don’t have many talents,” he said, “But, I am good at cleaning up, and I am happy to do it.”

Now, the truth is Jak has many talents. He’s a phenomenal friend, an excellent handy man, and yes, he’s a skillful dishwasher. I could not help but beam back at Jak when he shared about talents because he had articulated something of utmost importance. The talents we have—be it bookkeeping, teaching, public speaking, or anything else—the talents we have are not meant to be hidden away. We are to happily share them, like Jak! As a beloved children’s song goes, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…” and “Hide it under a bushel… NO! I’m gonna let it shine.”

Today’s Gospel lesson is all about this truth. Now when we read this parable, we might get distracted by some of the hyperbolic details that Jesus employed to get his point across. Let’s dive deeper into this tale of the talents and see how we might be like the exemplary characters and Jak Karn.

We are late in Matthew’s Gospel account. Jesus will soon face betrayal, torture, and death. So, Jesus’ intensity heightens in these last lessons with his followers and friends. Last week we heard the parable which immediately precedes this one. You may recall the story of the wise and foolish bridesmaids was about readiness. Today’s focus shifts to utilizing talents.

Before going any farther though, what was a talent? We might think of it as a gift or skill, but in those days, it was a large unit of money. A talent equaled 6,000 denarii, and a denarius was what the average worker earned in a day. Thus, one talent was equal to about sixteen years’ worth of work. Quick math will show that the first slave received eighty years’ wages, the second thirty-two, and the third sixteen.

Now, it’s worth articulating that the premise of this story remains fundamentally problematic from our modern perspective. Jesus’ story assumes slavery as the normal pattern. This is not to say that we as Christians should under any circumstances condone this way—we instead are to condemn human trafficking at every turn. Still, despite the troubling premise of this story, there is something for us to learn about God’s Reign.

When the first two slaves received their large sums of money what did they do? The text tells us, “[They] went off at once and traded with them.” In the story talent means money and this should not be lost on us, we are not to hoard away our treasure like Ebenezer Scrouge before his transformation in A Christmas Carol. However, talent has an expanded meaning, which points to anything of value to us. We have taken talent to mean something innately within us—like a gift from God—be it a photographic memory or a tireless spirit. In this story, the first two quickly doubled their money. The third slave? Well, before moving onto him, I want to take a timeout.

In this story there is a crucial detail that we may easily overlook. For me to illustrate this point though, let me tell you a story from early on in my time at All Saints. This story might as well be called, “All Saints Has Talent!” For we have an abundance of talent here at All Saints. We also have an abundance of skills, and as you may know, there is a difference!

A few times a year we at All Saints are witnesses of talent-turned-skill at our Wednesday night Contemplative Services. In November, around All Saints and All Souls Days, we remember those who have died. In December, we celebrate a longest night service, which allows community members a chance to grieve if the Christmas Season is more bittersweet than joyful. During Lent, we repent and pray for our world. This June, we even celebrated the gift of diversity. Now, early in my time here, after one of these beautiful services, I was talking with Maggie and Christin Gill about how amazing the whole evening was.

Trying to pay a compliment, I said, “Y’all are so talented.” Christin looked at me a little funny. I asked, “Did I say something wrong? What’s a better way of complementing you on the beauty of this service?” “Thank you for asking,” Christin said, “Talent is a gift from God. Skill though is developing that talent into something more.” Since then, we have a little running joke in which I tell our musicians not just how talented they are, but also how skilled they have become!

The same is true in this parable. The first two servants were talented—quite literally. They were given many talents, which is an obvious detail. However, what may be more hidden within this story is what they did with the talents—they skillfully used them. Note that they went and traded what they had—there was risk and vulnerability involved in their sharing. In a similar way, musicians trade their talents and rely upon others to help develop talent into skill. Musicians must practice. They must have someone, especially at first, to teach them. They need someone to help take care of their instruments. They benefit from having an audience with whom they share the music. You see, talent is not a solitary endeavor, which gets us to the third slave.

We might mistakenly think this third one is guilty of being lazy. That is indeed what the master says. And yet, there’s something more pernicious at work. The third slave let fear drive his talent into the ground. He isolated himself away from others. He hid the gift that had been given to him. To put it quite succinctly, he never got the biscuit because he was never willing to risk it.

At the same time, the mater’s reply scares me. He called the slave wicked and lazy. He threw him into the outer darkness where there was weeping and gnashing of teeth! This response frightens me not because I am naïve enough to think that this sort of thing does not happen in the world. There are evil ones who doll out vengeance daily. All around this earth violence, oppression, war, genocide, famine, human trafficking, rape, and murder are happening at this very moment. As terrifying as our world is, what scares me even more is that God gets compared to a slave-owning, tyrannical, vengeful monster who looks nothing like God whose love is eternal, limitless, and unconditional.

And yet, there’s good news here. If the master is indeed God, then God was overly abundant. God gave years’ and years’ worth of gifts to these ones who had earned none of it. All God asked for in return was that the gift was not hidden, that the offering was shared with others, that the talent was nurtured within community such that it grew.

In my heart, there is an alternative ending to this parable found within another parable from another Gospel account. My New Testament Professor, the Very Rev. Dr. Cynthia Briggs-Kittredge would not like what I am about to do, so Cindy, do not tell her about this. Cynthia is the Dean and President of the Seminary of the Southwest for a little longer, so I do not want her mad at me for making what she called Gospel stew when you mix the different Gospel accounts together.

On a day when our collect mentions that all holy Scriptures are to be heard, read, marked, learned, and inwardly digested Gospel stew sounds admissible to me. There’s another parable in Luke’s account, one we probably all know about a loving father. A father who allows for the talents of his younger son to be completely squandered. To have even given his prodigal son an inheritance to misuse in riotous living would have been obscene. And yet, that’s what the father did. The father also welcomed his wayward son home and invited his dutiful son to join the party.

If that father and this master are one in the same, I imagine that the anger of the master in this story is because this third slave did not even live like the prodigal son did. He sat outside the party fearfully hiding his talent in the dirt. God does not desire success at all costs. That’s not the morale of the parable of the talents. God may not want us to squander what we’ve been given, but there does seem to be something even more antithetical to God’s Reign—hoarding and hiding the gifts given to us.

We are called to be exceedingly generous with the talents that God invests in us. We are called to be like Jak Karn who is happy to share his talents with the church. We are called to be like Christin Gill who utilizes a network of support to turn her talent into skill. We are called to be like the first two servants who share their talents so freely with others. God gifts us with light that we are to shine. Don’t you dare hide it under a bushel. How will you share your talent with others? How will you shine your light with this world?

Thanksserving

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:27:58 GMT

Serve Others This Year At Thanksserving!

Looking for a way for you or your whole family to give back or serve others? Join us for Thanksserving, Saturday, November 18th from 9:00am-10:30am at Antioch Baptist Church in Pratt City (1220 Hattie St, Birmingham, AL 35214). Together with Christian Service Mission, we aim to provide Thanksgiving meal kits to those in need, and each kit costs $35.

Here is how you can help:

Sign up to deliver meals here: https://bit.ly/3TYC2Vj
Contribute via Realm - choose "Thanksserving Fund" in the drop-down
Or contribute via check entering "Thanksserving" in the memo line.

Thank you to all of our volunteers and to all those who give monetary donations to this effort. Sharing with others the blessings God gives to us has the power to transform everyone's lives.

Contact Seth Olson ( solson@allsaintsbhm.org ) with questions.

Will it Be Enough?

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:50:51 GMT

"Pewments"

Sermon by The Reverend Brad Landry

November 12, 2023

All Saints has never had pew rents. But this does not mean that participation in this community comes without a cost. As Jesus reminded His disciples to count the costs of discipleship, if anyone wants to be my followers, let them take up their cross daily and follow me. We are not asking to borrow a little bit of oil to keep our lamps burning just a bit longer. We're not asking you to rent a pew. We're asking you to come and enjoy the feast, the wedding banquet, where all are welcome. All are fed. We're all part of of the wedding guests of Christ. So blessed. Blessed are you who are called to the supper of the lamb.

All Saints T-Shirts & Hoodies For Sale

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 23:26:21 GMT

All Saints sweatshirt hoodies, t-shirts and sport hoodies are now available for purchase! We have adult sizes from medium to extra-large, while they last.

T-shirts are $15 each and both hoodies are $35 each. To purchase one or more, visit HERE or use the button above. You will be guided to payment on the form, or you can go directly to Realm here . Choose "T Shirt/Sweatshirt" in the drop-down.

*Once payment is received, you can pick it up at the front desk, M-Th 8:30am-3:00pm.

T Shirt ($15 each)

Sweatshirt Hoodie ($35 each)

Sport Hoodie ($35 each)

We are ALL saints!

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 18:07:49 GMT

"We are ALL saints!"

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

November 5, 2023

All of us are called to be a part of this movement of the saints, this movement of the spirit. We are all wholly set apart for God's holy work in this world. All of us are called to be on the way of Christ, and each and every single one of us are called to be and to become the good news of Christ to others.

God, What Do You Want Us To Do?

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:55:49 GMT

"God, What Do You Want Us To Do?"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 29, 2023

When God questions my questions and I am put in place of vulnerability and introspection, that is a place of fertile growth, new life, new opportunities and new relationships that ultimately bear the fruit of peace and joy. Resurrection does not happen without first asking some difficult questions.

Primetime Saints Pre-Advent Luncheon

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 14:30:48 GMT

PrimeTime Saints will have a Pre-Advent Luncheon on Thursday, November 30th at Noon in the Great Hall. Our own Reverend Cindy Carter will present a program on the season of Advent. You will also hear about our service project to wrap the senior gifts for Sawyerville on December 5th.

We will provide main course but ask you bring a side dish that will feed four to six, or a dessert.

Please RSVP to: rmay15@gmail.com

Whose Image & Likeness

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 15:18:57 GMT

"Whose Image and Likeness"

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

October 22, 2023

Come, Holy Spirit, come. Take my lips and speak with them; take our minds and think with the, take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you. In Christ’s name we pray. AMEN.

The Herodians and the Pharisees– two Jewish groups that usually didn’t have much to do with each other. But, they did have one important thing in common – neither group much liked this upstart teacher named Jesus.

The Herodians derived their power from the Roman occupiers, while the Pharisees were more aligned with the occupied and oppressed commoners. But, in the tense week between Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and his death, these two very different groups came together to lay a trap for this upstart teacher.

The trap involved a question about paying taxes. But, it wasn’t just any tax. It was a question about the Imperial Tax; the one denarius a year that Jews had to pay the Roman Empire to cover the cost of occupying their country.

You heard that right – it was a tax that they had to pay their oppressors to oppress them.

Now, you can imagine emotions ran high about paying this tax.

The Herodians probably didn’t have a problem with it. Remember they derived their power from the Roman occupiers. But, the Pharisees identified with the occupied, the common Jewish folk, who hated the Imperial Tax.

Teacher, we know you have integrity, teach the way of God accurately, are indifferent to popular opinion, and don’t pander to your students. So, tell us honestly: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? (The Message). It was a perfect question for their trap. The only thing that could make it better was that flattery at the beginning.

Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?

Jesus, if you say yes, well then the crowds of common Jewish folks that met you with praise and adulation as you entered Jerusalem seated on a donkey only a few days ago, well you can forget that. It’s likely to evaporate or to turn to outright opposition.

And, Jesus, if you say no, well then the power of Rome is likely to come down on you like only the power of the oppressor can come down on you.

It was perfect.

Why are you playing games with me? Show me the coin. Show me the coin.

So, they handed Jesus a denarius.

Whose image and likeness are on this coin?

They answered, “The Emperor.”

So, give to the Emperor what is the Emperor’s, and give o God what is God’s.

And, suddenly, that perfect trap was turned on those who had laid the trap. An inspired gotcha.

You see - that coin, that everyone seemed to be carrying around the Temple grounds in their pockets, everyone except for Jesus - that coin had Caesar’s image stamped on it, along with the inscription “Tiberius Caesar, august son of the divine Augustus, high priest.”

It was a blasphemous inscription, proclaiming the divinity of Caesar.

So, how did Jesus address those who had brought the question and the coin to him? He didn’t call them blasphemers. He could have called them that, and he would have been justified in calling them that.

But, he didn’t call them blasphemers; he called them hypocrites.

Hypocrites – people who say they believe one thing and then do something else.

Once commentator I read this past week said that he could imagine Jesus taking that coin with Caesar’s image and the blasphemous inscription on it, flipping it in his hand a few times, then looking up to those who had confronted and set the trap for him and leaving an unspoken question hanging in the air –

“And you, my friends, whose image do you bear?”

And you, my friends, whose image do you bear?

They were all Jews – Herodians and Pharisees – who knew that at creation God had said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness.”

For these questioners, there should have been one absolute commitment, one commitment that subsumed all their other commitments.

But these questioners seem to have taken to wearing another, false likeness.

In trying to entrap or to discount Jesus, they had forgotten whose image they bore; they had forgotten whose likeness they bore. And, they had acquired a sort of spiritual amnesia.

My friends, we are God’s children, made in the very image and likeness of God. We are called to live in a way that allows others to detect the family resemblance. As followers of Jesus of Nazareth, we are charged to act like the God we see in Jesus.

For us, there must be one absolute commitment, one commitment that subsumes all our other commitments.

We must not allow ourselves to fall prey to spiritual amnesia. We must remember who we are – God’s agents, God’s partners, God’s co-workers extending to all the abundant life that God desires for all.

And, let me give you a hint – this table is one of the best places I know to remember who we are

AMEN.

Compassionate Listening Workshop

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 18:41:14 GMT

We will have a Compassionate Listening Workshop, the weekend of October 28th & 29th! Compassionate Listening (CL) provides practical tools for better communication. Participants will learn the five practices of CL: compassion for self and others, developing the fair witness, respect for self and others, listening from the heart, and speaking from the heart. During this weekend workshop, we will practice listening better together. An environment of acceptance and beauty will be prepared for us and we will be invited to bring our best brave/safe selves to the work. The cost of the weekend is $20 per person or $30 per couple. For more information please contact Elizabeth Vander Kamp, summerred63@yahoo.com .

Door Code Policy

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:51:52 GMT

All Saints cares about the security of our community. Part of that involves having digital keypads on select doors. These doors operate on a specific schedule, being unlocked and locked during designated times each week. When they are locked, we have issued door codes to our parishioners.

All parishioners can use their codes to access the building through the front door and the door leading to the Atrium exclusively. Access to all doors leading to the Preschool, including the main red doors, are restricted to staff only. This decision aligns with our security measures aimed at reducing unnecessary foot traffic in that area. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

If you have NOT already received a code, are over the age of 18, and you are an active member of All Saints, you can REQUEST ONE HERE or use the button above.

Dear Jesus..

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 18:33:20 GMT

"Dear Jesus.."

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 15, 2023

The altar here behind me is about a foreshadow of the banquet that God has laid out for us. So bring your best. Bring your worst. Bring what you have. Bring your true self. And you will find yourself. (Parable of the wedding feast - Matthew 22:1-14)

Murder or Chocolate: You Decide!

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 22:19:01 GMT

"Murder or Chocolate: You Decide!"

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

October 8, 2023

Last week, my wife Kim told me that we had lost a library book our son Teddy had checked out. After looking through the stacks of board books, paperbacks, and hardcovered stories on our boy’s shelves, we determined that either A) the book is in an alternative universe, B) our dog Chloe secretly ate it, C) we have legitimately lost the copy, or D) we turned in the story, but somehow it never got checked in properly. Now, I kind of hope it’s A) and not just because I’m intrigued by the concept of a parallel multiverse, but I honestly lean towards answer D) that we turned the book in along with a couple dozen others, but it got lost.

In truth we have paid heavier library fines within the last calendar year than we will in purchasing this particular book, so it is not a huge deal to ante up a little cash to support our amazing city. However, there are times when I take for granted the things that have been loaned to me. Yes, I can go on the library website to see which books, videogames, audio books, boardgames, tablets, etc. I have checked out, but it’s easy for my mind to slip into a place where I start to believe some more important things belong to me when they were never mine in the first place, which sounds a little like what we just heard from Matthew.

It would be wild for me in the case of the library book we cannot find, Lego City: Work This Farm, to take the lead from today’s parable. It would be crazy for me to receive a notice from the Jefferson County Library Cooperative and to choose violence. It would be insane if when told by a library worker I needed to return what was not mine, if I then reacted by killing that employee, or setting ablaze the highly flammable tinder that is a stack of fantasy fiction.

The logic outlined by Jesus in this parable and exemplified by the tenant farmers seems to allow for me to walk into the Homewood Library and threaten the kind workers at the circulation desk with murder if they ever asked about an overdue item. Not just this, but I should take control of the branch as my own personal bookshop to be defended with aggression. All of this sounds so absurd exiting my mouth in a sermon—it’s in the Gospel, but it is not good news, is it? It sounds more like the content of a violent fantasy novel or a scene from The Godfather than good news. And yet, here it is in Matthew’s telling of Jesus’ story.

These words were proclaimed by Jesus to Temple leaders who were quizzing him about his authority. And, this encounter transpired during the last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry in the lead up to the Passover. Thus, this story occurred in an overwhelming intense setting. But, what was Jesus truly saying? The owner of a vineyard sent in his chosen workers, then his son to collect the property-owner’s part of what tenant farmers and the land had produced, but the leaseholders bloodied and murdered those servants and his son. Why? To send the message that they were not going to give back what they had been given! This is not compassionate, loving, or sane. Who would do such a thing?

We would! We do it every single day, and not just when we forget which books are the library’s. Sure, we don’t let others see this sort of behavior. We don’t treat our friends and neighbors like this because of social pressures, social ridicule, and social media, but make no mistake—this story of the wicked tenants is not only about the Temple leaders of long ago—it’s about us too.

We have been given so much! Time, talent, and treasure; gifts, abilities, and skills; the earth, this country, and the Church too. What do we do with all these things given to us? Often, we hide them away with the blinds shut. As one of my favorite priests, the Rev. Evan Garner, once preached on this text:

We horde the things that God has given us, pretend they were ours to begin with, and keep the fruits of our labors for ourselves. All of our skills, abilities, resources, and opportunities belong to God, yet we begin almost every encounter by asking what’s in it for us. All of the love, affection, loyalty, and trust that we enjoy come from God, yet we would rather hold on to them than give them away. Our greatest gift, the freedom to choose whom we will honor with our lives, is handed to us by God, and we choose to turn inward and seek self-satisfaction instead of devoting ourselves to our creator.

We start thinking all of this is ours—our church, our families, our lives. We put in some hard work—we really do. It is not easy in the vineyard. The sun beats down. The ground hardens. The sweat pours. The weeds have thorns. The body aches. So, the fruit that is born—we believe, it’s ours! We produced it. Even if those holy ones of every age cry out reminding us that no one is an island and none of us made ourselves.

We think we were left alone in this vineyard a long, long time ago. Even when prophets point towards the legitimate landowner, we get lured in by our own siren call to keep the wealth, to get what is ours, and to keep earnin’ baby! We believe it’s all ours—if not in our minds, then with our actions. Despite this, God decided to do something wild. God became incarnate to be with us. Even observing this very human tendency to see the world around us as belonging to us, God chose to send His Son into this mess.

Yes, as absurd as this parable is, what is even crazier is that God would see the selfish tendency, especially among religious folks, to horde power and to attribute God’s gifts as their own—God would view this and still become incarnate. Even knowing how absurd we are—God still was pleased to dwell with us.

In the Incarnation of God through Jesus of Nazareth we discover this hard-to-understand truth. God yearns to be with us—even in our selfishness, even in our self-centeredness. And in doing this God does not condone our lunacy, but nonetheless God makes holy the mundane. The secular becomes sacred. In Jesus’ incarnation we are reminded of the original incarnation—that is creation. In Creation, God made everything. In Incarnation, God redeemed everything. In the age of the Spirit (from Pentecost onward), God is in the process of sanctifying everything. And yet, we strive—sometimes intentionally to forget this—that God has given, has redeemed, and is sanctifying everything!

When Jesus came, he pointed to what had always been true. Everything is God’s. All of Creation belongs to God. The whole vineyard is God’s! All time and space too. Sure, we happen to be in stewardship season, but it is always true—everything belongs to God. Time, talent, and treasure… your life, your family, and your money. Some churches talk about tithing, that’s nice and all, but that ain’t it. God doesn’t want 10 percent of anything—God wants it all. This is scary, right?

One of my favorite bands, Spoon, released a song earlier this year entitled, “I Can’t Give Everything Away.” It’s right on the tip of our cultural tongue. We become creatures of comfort and convenience, and it’s hard to let go. In the glossy sheen of social media posts, we see the lifestyle of others beaming, we see the ads for the next thing to make life easier or better, and we strive to keep up with the Joneses. Underpinning this pursuit of besting one’s neighbors is the belief that right now, life is not enough.

We buy into scarcity—that there won’t be enough, that we aren’t enough, and that something, someone, or some position will somehow make us enough. This ain’t it baby. St. Augustine wrote the following way back around the year 400, but it still rings true: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.”

Now, you might be wondering, “Okay, Seth, this sounds nice and all. I want to be able to rest in God, but how?” Well, first recognize that the vineyard isn’t ours. The vineyard of our life, our family, our church, our world… we are caretakers of them all, stewards of the gifts given to us, but everything belongs to Our Creator. Next, see the world not through the lens of scarcity displayed in our overly consumeristic culture, but through the lens of God’s abundance. That preacher I love said it this way, “We have everything we need to make this world the way that God dreams it could be—the wealth, the opportunity, and the freedom—but we’ve been borrowing all of those things for so long that we’ve forgotten that they don’t belong to us.” They never did. What we have been given is not ours and it certainly will not be ours when we are called home, so we can start now in practicing the art of giving it all away right now!

What I am saying might make you feel uncomfortable or even mad, but if you have been viewing stewardship as a fundraising tactic that we use to keep the lights on, then I am sorry—we in the Church have not been clear enough, which brings me to my final point about how our hearts will rest in God. Stewardship is a spiritual practice meant to remind us of the ultimate truth—everything is God’s and you and I are not God. We begin in God we end in God, but this middle bit is up to us. Are we going to pretend that this is our vineyard or are we going to give back the produce that belongs to the one who created it all?

There’s an absurd cartoon (see the top of this post) that helps to make the point that we have a choice in how we respond to God coming into our lives. It’s funny if a bit of gut punch—maybe like this whole sermon. An alien has landed on earth and is talking with an earthling about Jesus. The alien says, “Oh, he comes back every two weeks or so. We gave him this big box of chocolates when he first arrived. Why? What’d you guys do?” To which the earthling replied, “Uhh…”.

It's all God’s. Are we going to respond to that truth with murder or are we going to respond with chocolate?

Changing Our Minds

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 15:37:07 GMT

“Changing Our Minds”

Sermon by The Rev. Cindy Carter

October 1, 2023

Come, Holy Spirit, come. Take my lips and speak with them, take our minds and think with them, take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you. In Christ’s name we pray. AMEN.

So much has happened in Matthew’s Gospel between last week’s Gospel reading and today’s Gospel reading.

Last week we read the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard, perhaps more appropriately titled “The Parable of the Generous Vineyard Owner.” And, today we have read a parable about two sons who were asked to go work in their father’s vineyard.

The parables may both be about working in a vineyard, but so very much has happened between the telling of these two stories.

Since last week’s reading, Matthew’s Gospel has moved to Jesus’ last week of his life on earth. Jesus had entered the city of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, riding on a donkey and greeted by noisy shouts of “Hosanna” from the welcoming crowd. He had entered the Temple and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves He had cured the blind and the lame who came to him in the Temple. And, he had cursed a fig tree that did not produce fruit – an enacted parable of God’s impending judgment.

Greeted as Messiah and King, generating turmoil all over the city. clearing out the Temple of business as usual…and now we hear that Jesus was teaching in the Temple, the very heart of religious authority. And, not surprisingly, the Chief Priests and elders could not take it any longer.

By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you the authority?

Jesus, just who do you think you are?

Well, instead of giving them a straight answer, Jesus asked them a question that they could not or would not answer, then he told them a story.

A man had two sons. He sent the first son to work in his vineyard; the son refused to go, but then later changed his mind and headed for the vineyard.

Not knowing this, the father sent his other son to do the work his brother had refused to do. This son said he would go, but never set foot in the vineyard that day.

At the end of this brief story, Jesus asked, “Which of the two did the will of his father?”

Now the Chief Priests and the elders knew the answer to the question. Frankly, both of the sons had not been truthful with their father, but one changed his mind and went to work while the other never quite followed through. The faithful one, the one who did the father’s will, was the son who changed his mind and headed for the fields to work.

Yes, they knew the answer to the question, but Jesus interpreted the parable for them anyway, just in case they had missed the point. He told them that prostitutes and tax collectors would enter the Kingdom before they did.

And, why was this?

These Jewish religious leaders, the priests and elders, were known for being long on words but short on righteous deeds. And, they couldn’t seem to see or at least to admit who John the Baptizer and by extension Jesus were.

But, the tax collector sand prostitutes? Well, they recognized the authority of John the Baptizer and Jesus. The tax collectors and prostitutes knew who they were and changed their minds.

Now, if we left the story there, we might all feel pretty good, mightn’t we? We’re not like those Jewish religious leaders in Jesus’ day. We are Christians. We’re not all hung up on meticulously keeping the law. We believe Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. We’ve been baptized. We say the Creed and receive communion every Sunday. Yes, surely, we get it.

Now I don’t know about you, but, if I am honest, I can see a danger here. Because if I am honest, I know I are as much in danger of being the second son as were the religious leaders of Jesus time. I can be in danger of saying “Yes, Lord, I’ll do what you ask” which can be so easy to do, and not actually doing what the Father asks, which can be oh so difficult.

Three brief points that I’d like to make about this story that Jesus told to the religious leaders who questioned what he was doing. And, as with all parables, these points tell us some important things about God.

First – the longer I am a follower of Jesus the more I am convinced that God is not particularly impressed by our perfect doctrine and eloquent words about what we believe. But rather, I am more convinced that God is concerned with what we actually do. Whether what we say with our lips actually matches what we do in our lives. Whether we actually go to work in the vineyard.

Matthew’s Gospel began with the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus taught the disciples that they were to be salt and light, to love their neighbors AND their enemies, to do unto others as they would have others do to them.

A few chapters after the story we’ve heard from Matthew’s Gospel today, as Jesus moves even closer to the cross, he says that the basis for the final judgment will be whether we fed the hungry, gave drink to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, cared for the sick, and visited the prisoner.

Actions that speak louder than our words, echoing down through eternity.

The faithful son was the one who actually worked in the vineyard, not the one who only talked about doing it.

Second, God seems to be willing to give us a second chance to do what God asks of us. We may say “no” at first, but we can change our minds, and God seems to accept our obedience on the same terms as if we had said “yes” right away.

God’s mercy is great, God’s patience is long, and God’s future continues to be open to us, no matter what we have done or left undone in the past.

And, last. It is God who gives us the authority to work in God’s vineyard, to do the work we are given to do. God is the one who sends us to the vineyard, and God will be with us and empower us as we go.

At the end of Matthew’s Gospel, as the one who was questioned by the Temple leaders about the source of his authority goes to his Father, we hear the risen Jesus say,

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’

My friends, God sends us to work in the vineyard of the world that God loves so dearly. What will our response be? Not what will we say, but what will we do?

May what we say with our lips match what we do with our lives. AMEN.

Rooted in Abundance

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 19:58:00 GMT

“Rooted in Abundance”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

September 24, 2023

God's justice can look a lot like mercy, and God's sense of fairness often looks like generosity. As the people of God practice generosity it blossoms into a place where we shall be rooted in abundance.

Creation Care Advent Calendar

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:12:47 GMT

With a focus on responsible environmental stewardship, we invite you to delight in this Creation Care Advent Calendar, filled with numerous reflections for contemplation throughout this festive Christmas season!

The All Saints Creation Care program is providing a fall calendar with ways you can grow into loving, liberating, life-giving relationships with the whole of God’s Creation. You can help protect birds during migration, help with litter clean-up and more. View the .pdf HERE with al the details.

“For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.” - 1 Corinthians 10:26

To learn more about the Diocesan Creation Care program, visit: https://bit.ly/3YJmrvc

Put The Woman Down and Don't Drink the Rat Poison

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:12:44 GMT

“Put The Woman Down and Don't Drink the Rat Poison”

Sermon by The Rev. Set Olson

September 17, 2023

II once heard a comedian talking about his day-to-day interactions with a significant other. Like many romantic relationships, some of the things that his partner did got on the comedian’s nerves and vice versa. In relationships those things that are sweet, cute, and unique in the beginning can become neurotic, narcissistic, or nerve wracking down the road. Yet, this comedian would not immediately say something to his girlfriend about the annoying behavior. Instead, he would wait—storing up the grievances like arrows in an archer’s quiver. Then, when she came back from the bathroom saying, “Honey, you left the toilet seat up again,” he would launch into his savings of offenses… “Well, what about last week when you made me stop watching the game? Or the other day when you left the dishes for me to do even though I had cooked? How about the time you forgot to pick me up from the airport?”

Of course, I have never purposefully saved up a wrong done to me, so that I could hold it over someone else’s head (wink, wink). And, I am sure that you have never once withheld forgiveness. Even though we do not need to hear it, living and forgiving in community have been the focal points of the last two Sunday’s gospel readings. Last week the text focused upon a path to reconciliation: point out the fault by yourself, with one or two others if necessary, and with the whole church if you must, so to ensure that the one doing harm knows their hurtful actions and might amend the relationship. Today, we heard Peter asking Jesus how many times do we have to forgive someone who sins against us? Seven times?

Now, at first Peter’s estimate appears either too high or too low depending upon the relationship. There are some people we might click with from the moment we meet them. It would take a dramatic turn of events for them to need to seek forgiveness seven times. We all also probably know someone that gets underneath our skin from the word go, they might wrack up seven offenses against us in an afternoon. Often these are the people that we love the most. I have heard it said, if you would like a master’s degree in forgiveness, get married. If you want a doctorate in forgiveness, have children (or take care of them)!

We experience forgiveness every Sunday when we hear the absolution after the Confession of Sins; however, forgiveness is not just something that we do when we kneel at church. This is a way of life, a daily choice that becomes more challenging the closer we come to other people within community. When Peter throws out his question he is asking more though, than just should we forgive people a certain number of times?

The original language comes across in a more complicated fashion depending upon one’s interpretation of the number seven within First Century Hebrew culture. “Should I forgive fully? Or, should I forgive others completely?” are two ways of translating Peter’s question. Another accurate way of posing this question to Jesus would have been, “Shall I forgive others always?” Jesus’ answer points beyond a base level of forgiveness, instead he exponentially multiplied the disciple’s mathematics, not seven times but seventy-seven times. For Jesus rote forgiveness or a limit to forgiveness does not cut it, those who follow his way practice wholistic forgiveness. But how? How can we possibly forgive fully? This is where today’s text turns towards a helpful if troubling tale.

We have a King who holds a servant’s debt that would make Jeff Bezos’ or Elon Musk’s net worth look small—the subject is in way over his head. So, he begs for forgiveness, and remarkably the King listens. Instead of going to jail, being required to work off the many lifetimes worth of debt, or being sold along with his family, the Monarch acts graciously forgiving the entire balance—not a sound financial practice, but an infinitely generous offer. The servant must be elated, right?

Nope! Instead, he turns around and tries to get money back from those who owe him, and when some other servants catch wind of it, they report this double standard to the Ruler. This is where the story gets a bit sus, as the kids say. The King who was abundantly gracious is now lavishly vengeful—even torturing the wicked servant—a rough look if the King is God’s stand in.

Now, most interpretations of this parable invite us to see that 1. The King is God, 2. The Servant is us, 3. God cancels away our insurmountable debts, and 4. We are to forgive others. This is all well and good, but what are we to do with the ending that makes God look more like a petty, tyrannical maniac and less like an eternally forgiving Father? To better understand Jesus here we have to go back to the question that Peter asked in the first place, how much, how completely must we forgive others? Jesus illustrated in this colorful ending that the stakes are astronomically high when we withhold forgiveness from others. God has forgiven you completely—now how will you respond? (This feels like a particularly appropriate question as we celebrate Nellie, Virginia, and Wiliam becoming members of Christ’s Body the Church in Holy Baptism today.)

Hopefully you, (these precious children), and I respond by living into the newfound freedom we receive in being forgiven, hopefully we connect relinquishing another’s debt against us with God’s wiping away our own debt, and hopefully we remember that these two aspects of forgiveness are forever intertwined.

However, if we ever forget, all we need to do is pray words that Jesus taught us, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” These words, part of the Lord’ Prayer, from earlier in Matthew, we say every week during Holy Eucharist. In fact, this prayer is the only thing that is present in every single liturgy that we pray as a Church. The “Our Father” is so important that we pray it every time we gather together. Still, we may wonder, does God’s not forgive those who do not practice forgiveness with others? Hold onto that question, while I tell you one more story.

“Two monks on their way to the monastery found an exceedingly beautiful woman at the riverbank. Like them, she wished to cross the river, but the water was too high. So one of the monks lifted her onto his back and carried her across.

“His fellow monk was thoroughly scandalized. For two hours he berated [his brother] on his negligence in keeping [their rule of life]: Had he forgotten he was a monk? How did he dare touch a woman? And worse, carry her across the river? What would people say? Had he not brought their holy religion into disrepute? And so on.

“The offending monk patiently listened to the never-ending sermon. Finally he broke in with ‘Brother, I dropped that woman at the river. Are you still carrying her?’” [1]

We can scream at God and believe that God is the one that tortures us, but it is in not forgiving other’s debts that we torture ourselves. As Anne Lamott has written, “Not forgiving is like drinking rat poison then waiting for the rat to die.” [2] Put the woman down, don’t drink the rat poison, practice forgiveness. I bet you didn’t think you’d hear that in a sermon today.

Our task as Christians is to follow Jesus in the practice of loving one another. We practice this in how we choose to forgive each other. As we experience complete forgiveness through God’s mercy, we too are called to lavishly, abundantly, and completely forgive others. We will not always get forgiving others right, and when you miss the mark, I pray you will be able to forgive yourself too.

Do not store up a quiver full of grievances. Put down the woman. Don’t drink the rat poison. Forgive as God forgives you. Forgive your parents, siblings, children, grandchildren, friends, neighbors, enemies, and even yourself, for it is in forgiving others that we ourselves participate in the freedom of God’s mercy. And for that, thanks be to God. Amen.

Atrium Meeting

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 19:03:34 GMT

All Level III Children (4th, 5th and 6th graders), please come to our first In-Service / Outreach meeting this Sunday, September 17th, from 12:00pm-1:30pm . This meeting will be planning outreach events and projects for the year and preparing for Trunk-or-Treat. Bring $8 for lunch and meet in the Great Hall.

If you have any questions contact Children's Formation Director, Kathleen Busbee, kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org .

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:51:40 GMT

The Prayer Shawl Ministry is growing world-wide! In addition to making prayer shawls for our parishioners, our dedicated group of knitters, known as "In Stitches", will be joining forces with Knitting4Peace.org , a remarkable organization dedicated to distributing hand-knitted items to people worldwide. Our primary focus will be on creating knitted hats and washcloths. We invite anyone who is interested in learning to knit or enjoys knitting at home to join us. We gather every Thursday from 1:00pm to 3:00pm in the Jackson-Thorpe Room, located along the hallway with the offices.

Conflict Resolution

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 01:39:13 GMT

“Conflict Resolution”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

September 10, 2023

I encourage you today to look into one another's eyes and know that your healing, your wholeness, your very salvation is dependent in part on the person sitting next to you. Your part in the kingdom of God cannot be disconnected from your neighbor, so share that peace, receive that peace like your life depends on it. For God is present in this work of reconciliation, God is present within you, surlily wherever two or three are gathered to gather in His name.

Book Fair

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 17:15:21 GMT

Our All Saints Preschool Scholastic Book Fair will be the week of Sept. 18 – 22! There will be an assortment of holiday books, board books for younger children, picture books and beginning readers. The children in the Preschool will be sending home wish lists and each classroom will also have a wish list that you may purchase a book for their room. The Book Fair will be held in the Hallway facing the King Garden. Everyone is welcome! If you have any questions, reach out to Preschool Director Bebe Hardin, bhardin@allsaintsbhm.org

Who Do You Say That I Am?

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 23:20:58 GMT

“Who Do You Say That I Am?”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

August 27, 2023

The core of our identity of who we are is in the core of God. Who is God? God is justice, God is light, He is like a rock. No matter how certain you may be in your answer to this question, Jesus wants to continue the conversation. Jesus wants to be in a relationship. It's worth the risk to ask and answer the question.

All Saints Bash

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 15:18:08 GMT

Gather and enjoy each other’s company as activities get back into full swing for the fall with our Annual All Saints Bash, Sunday, August 20, 2023 immediately following the 11:00am worship service on our lawn next to Oxmoor Rd. You are encouraged to wear CASUAL attire if you are attending the 11:00am service, the Bash will take place immediately following.

We will enjoy games, face painting, bounce houses, music, and food. Bring your lawn chair and be part of fellowship and fun. Invite your friends and neighbors! All are welcome!

Brick by Brick Campaign

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 01:30:41 GMT

'Brick by Brick' is an on-going campaign with the goal of retiring church debt, and move towards a more sustainable financial future. Individuals, families, or groups are encouraged to make a gift of at least $500 to have their name inscribed on a brick to be laid in the walkway outside the church, thus laying the foundation for a more sustainable financial future for our church.

A brick would make a lovely memorial for a deceased loved one, a recent graduate, or any family who has found All Saints to be a meaningful part of their lives. You can buy your brick on Realm by selecting “Brick by Brick” on the dropdown menu . Alternatively, you can send a check to the church, designating “Brick by Brick” in the memo line.

Once you have donated, please visit HERE to fill out the online form for the wording on your brick(s). If you have any questions email finance@allsaintsbhm.org

A Still, Small Voice

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 17:48:38 GMT

“A Still, Small Voice”

Sermon by Guest Preacher SaraScott Wingo

August 13, 2023

Centering prayer is one method for quiet listening and one of many practices you can learn to attend to that still, small voice. The Holy invitation is before us today to get quiet and listen for the still, small voice of God who wants to speak to you.

Open House

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 19:28:04 GMT

Come explore and connect to the ministries of All Saints! Our "Open House" will be August 6, 13, or 20 between the 8:30am and 11:00am services. As a remix to the traditional Ministry Fair, pick one Sunday to come and find enriching experiences within ministries, classes, and small groups. Shepherds (tour guides) will be on hand to answer questions. There will also be a scavenger hunt with door prizes for those who attend.

Kairos Prison Ministry

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 16:23:03 GMT

At the end of this month we will have members of All Saints participating in "Kairos Outside", which focuses on ministering to women who have been affected by incarceration, either through having a loved one in prison or having been incarcerated themselves. The participants in a "Kairos Outside" weekend come from various parts of Alabama and can attend at no cost. The upcoming "Kairos Outside" weekend for North Alabama is scheduled for September 29th to October 1st, and it will take place at Springville Camp and Conference near Odenville.

Three ways to help:

Prayer: When you have a minute, just say a prayer for the staff and guests at Weekend 47
Green Agape : You can support the guests by purchasing meal tickets at $10 each or make any donation. Checks should be made out to “Kairos Outside of North Alabama” and can be mailed to PO Box 130226, Birmingham, AL 35213.
Cookies: If you like to bake, we can always use cookies! We offer these for the prisoners when we visit. There are no restrictions on the kind of cookies, but homemade ones are the best. Bake as many as you want and then drop them off at the church by Noon on Thursday, September 28th, labeled “KONA #47” and put in the kitchen freezer.

Kairos is a ministry dedicated to supporting individuals in prison. If you would like to learn more go here: https://bit.ly/456Zll7 . If you have questions about Kairos, contact Ron May, rmay15@gmail.com .

Mount of Transfiguration

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 20:07:39 GMT

“Mount of Transfiguration”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

August 6, 2023

These are merely three of the unending lessons that await us on the Mount of Transfiguration: transfiguration always takes place in the context of community; prayer not only changes things, it changes us; in those moments of grace, moments of transfiguration are given us to sustain us through the valleys of following Jesus. How about you? What lessons does Jesus have to share with you as you follow Him down the mountain?

All Things Work Together for Good

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 20:05:59 GMT

“All Things Work Together for Good”

Sermon by The Rev. Charles Youngson

July 30, 2023

If I down see you again on they early plain I know we will see each other on another shore,. Thats one of the main reasons I'm a Christian because as Christians we don't have to say goodbye forever. We know there is a kingdom awaiting us where there are no more goodbyes, where you don't have to say "God be with you" because his presence will be as inescapable as the Alabama heat in late July.

In that kingdom we will claim our place as brothers and sisters in Christ. There we will be reconciled and united for eternity, we will be made whole, we will know joy, peace, and love. That is our hope in Christ and that is God's promise to us!

Choir Camp

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 18:03:59 GMT

Choir Camp is August 25-27 at Camp McDowell! If you are interested in singing with the Adult Choir this year, please join us for Choir Camp. You can come for all or part of the weekend. Although it's not a requirement for participating in the choir, it's lots of fun and highly recommended! It is happening concurrently with the Parish Retreat; however, meals, rehearsals, and lodging are at Stough Lodge instead of Bethany Village, and registration is handled separately. REGISTER HERE or through the button above. C ontact Melanie Couch at mcouch@allsaintsbhm.org for more information.

The Adult Choir sings at the 11:00 am service on Sundays (September through June) and rehearses Wednesday evenings from 6:45-8:45 (September through May). The choir is open to anyone who would like to serve God in the church through singing. The Adult Choir supports congregational hymns and service music and provides the offertory anthem during the service. Through that process, the choir sings together, fellowships together, and most importantly serves God together. Although experience in choral singing is a plus, all levels of musical skill and experience are welcome!

Charles Youngson: Next Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Cullman

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 18:05:45 GMT

We will have a reception in the Great Hall July 30th after the 10am service to say goodbye to Charles. If you would like to make a financial farewell gift directly to Charles, bring cash or a check made out to him the day of the reception. We will have an option for Realm shortly.

Dear friends and parishioners,

I write to you today to share the news that The Reverend Charles Youngson, our Associate Rector, has accepted a call to serve Grace Episcopal Church in Cullman, Alabama as their next rector. Charles has had a long and fruitful ministry here at All Saints, and his departure will be bittersweet. While I am excited for Charles and supportive of his discernment, I will be sad to see him leave this parish that I know he loves and who has loved him in return. I have known Charles for eighteen years, and our children were born at the same hospital just one day apart. He has always been a kind and compassionate presence, as well as a supportive friend and colleague. While I am sad to see such an excellent priest and friend leaving All Saints, I know that Grace is receiving a faithful pastor and insightful leader.

Below is a letter from Charles where he shares about his discernment and this exciting new opportunity. In the coming weeks we will plan a celebration of Charles’s ministry. In the meantime, please join me in offering a prayer for our parish:

Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. - The Book of Common Prayer, 817

Grace & peace,

The Rev. Brad Landry, Rector

_________________________________________________

A Letter from The Rev. Charles Youngson

Dear All Saints family,

It is with a great mix of emotions that I announce that I will be leaving All Saints to accept a call to be the next rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Cullman. My last Sunday at All Saints will be July 30, and I will begin my new ministry at Grace on September 5 following a few weeks of rest and renewal. Though I know this announcement comes as a surprise, I have spent a lot of time in prayer and deliberation prior to accepting this invitation. I love this congregation, and part of me wants to stay at All Saints forever, but I also sense God leading me to take on a new challenge so that I may continue to grow as a priest.

On June 24, I completed twenty years of ordained ministry in the Episcopal Church. Twelve and half of those years have been at All Saints, from 2005-2009 and from 2014 until the present. I will deeply miss the many relationships I have built here, the smiling faces of our children in the parish and preschool, the beauty and warmth of our Sunday morning services, the enthusiasm of our youth, and the wisdom and service of our many gifted adult members. It’s also been a privilege to serve alongside so many talented and faithful clergy, staff, and lay leaders. You all have loved me well through challenging times as well as times of celebration. And I hope that your walk with Christ has been strengthened in some small way through my ministry here.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for forming me into the person and priest I am today through your care and support. I also thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives and to minister to you during significant moments. I know that God has good things in store for this congregation and that you are in capable hands. I am in prayer for you all and especially for Brad and Seth during this time of transition. I feel fortunate that I will remain in the Diocese of Alabama and see you at Diocesan events. I will also continue living in Homewood while my younger son Charlie finishes high school. In other words, we will see each other again. And I will carry you all in my heart as I minister just up the road in another corner of God’s mission field.

God’s love and peace,

Charles +

Adopted as Children of God

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 17:16:23 GMT

“Adopted as Children of God”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

July 23, 2023

I don't know what it is exactly you may be longing for today. It can be hard to be honest about our own deepest desires, but I pray we will all take comfort in knowing that God does know. As we pray in the collect for purity, to God all hearts are open, all desires known and from God no secrets are hid. And so in the meantime of our exodus may we discover that our deepest longings, our holy longings in the name of our desire, is God.

Support Our Seminarian

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 18:59:32 GMT

Support Our Seminarian Kristin Blackerby

With the endorsement of our parish and the Diocese of Alabama, one of our parishioners and our former Director of Youth Ministries, Kristin Blackerby will begin her seminary studies at Virginia Theological Seminary this fall. As we join the Blackerbys in celebrating this exciting time, please consider showing them support in a couple of important ways. First, pray for them daily. Seminary is an amazingly transformative experience, but it can be a challenging transition. Lift them up in your daily prayers. Second, consider donating to the Seminarian Fund. All Saints has committed to paying for all of Kristin's books this year. If you feel called to help with this, please write a check putting "Seminarian Fund" in the memo line. Realm option is in process. If you have any questions, please contact Seth Olson at solson@allsaintsbhm.org .

Children' & Youth Choir Kickoff

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 14:55:17 GMT

Interested in children's and youth choirs at All Saints? Come join us for our kick off party on Wednesday, August 30 at 6:00pm!

All parents, children, and youth who are interested in our music groups are welcome to attend (children 1st grade and younger, should definitely plan to attend with a parent). We will play musical bingo, eat pizza, and have a fabulous time getting to know each other.

For more information about choirs, contact:

Elena Moreno, Interim Co-Director for Choirs, elenavmoreno01@gmail.com

Robin Belk, Interim Co-Director for Choirs, robinbelk3072@gmail.com

Soil, Seeds, and Sowers

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 18:49:10 GMT

“Soil, Seeds, and Sowers”

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

July 16, 2023

In seminary, I had a wonderful New Testament professor, the Rev. Dr. Jane Patterson. She masterfully taught about a beloved part of the Gospel accounts, the parables. At first though, what she instructed sounds a little offensive. Professor Patterson told my class that when it comes to parables we are like dogs. You see, the word parable shares its etymology, its root with the word parabola. Para in ancient Greek means “beside, next to” and bola means “throw.” Jesus in these parables was throwing something beside those who had ears to hear.

In much the same way our beloved canine companions pay attention to us, their human caretakers, especially when we have a treat in our hands, we are to pay attention to what Christ is tossing our way in the parables. When we throw dogs a tasty morsel, they watch the arch of it careening through the air, then, they move to catch the treat. As Jesus throws us sustenance within a parable, we would be wise not to stay static. We are called to move and adapt such that we catch the goodness within Jesus’ masterful stories. With this in heart and mind, I want to journey through three approaches to this parable—it’s like 3 mini-sermons in one, very Trinitarian—in no way is this an exhaustive catalog of interpretations—that’s right there’s even more to explore!

The first way we catch the treat that Jesus throws us comes from the passage itself. Jesus was unpacking for his followers what he meant by the Parable of the Sower, or at least this is the way Matthew depicts it. This is like Jesus handing out a secret decoder pin. It’s as though he said, “Here’s what I meant by this parable.”

· Seed = Word of the Kingdom

· Seed falling on the path = the evil one snatching the word sown in one’s heart

· Seed on the rocky ground = temporary joy in one’s faith, but without forming deeper roots this person loses trust in God, the seed fails

· Seed tossed among thorns = those who hear the word but ignore it because of the lures of this world—wealth, status, and the cares of life…

· Seed tossed in good soil = one who hears the word, understands it, and bears fruit yielding up to one hundred times growth… WOW!

· In all of these cases, the ground = us

· Sower = God

This is the general interpretation of this parable. In this way we move a bit and see, we are supposed to be good soil. I read this interpretive key and think we are either a path, rocky ground, thorny overgrowth, or good soil. That’s it—and frankly, there’s not an abundance of grace here. In this reading there’s a surprising lack of opportunity for transformation. It sounds almost legalistic.

Of course, parables are not systematic theology. Instead, they are a snapshot of what the Reign of Christ, a keyhole through which we gaze upon the Kingdom of God. So even here, we see grace.

When I lived in Decatur, Alabama and worked at St. John’s Episcopal Church, we had an abundance of farmers in our congregation. They assured me that Jesus would have been a terrible planter. Who throws seeds on paths, among rocks, and in the weeds? But, if we are the soil and the point of a parable is to move us a bit, maybe there’s something that must happen to the soil.

Soil does not just become good. Soil has to be amended for its enrichment. Rocks must be removed. Pathways detoured. Thorns plucked out. Even good soil does not stay good on its own. Fertile soil sometimes needs a little manure.

So, if you are soil or even a whole landscape with rocks, paths, thorns, and soil remember when shi—manure happens to you—it might be so that new growth can happen, a new seed planted.

Speaking of seeds, what if this parable is not about you being soil or even a whole landscape. If you are trying to keep track, we are starting homily two of three. Jesus, our Savior, might not be throwing something beside us—instead Christ might be throwing us. What if we are the seeds in this story?

Sure, Matthew makes it seem like Jesus gave out the secret decoder pin, but maybe this deciphering device is like the one Ralphie got from little orphan Annie in the classic movie A Christmas Story. Could Matthew have been trying to push forth his own message? He wasn’t saying to drink more Ovaltine, but the interpretation of the parable in this Gospel text is only one way of inviting us to move.

Here’s another way of seeing into Christ’s Reign: God may indeed be throwing you as a message from the Kingdom. And like one of the seeds in the parable you may land in good soil, or you may crash down on a path, upon rocky ground, or in the thorny weeds. As hard as this is, you may be the only Good News someone ever receives. If this is the case, we would be wise to follow Theodore Roosevelt’s old adage: “ Do what you can, with what you’ve got, where you are. ” On your own, you may not be able to change a path, a rock, or some thorns, but with God all things are possible. And, maybe just maybe you showing up where you are with what you’ve got and the people around you might just reveal Christ’s Reign already at work here and now.

Alright, stick with me, let’s move into a third and final baby homily, or h’omelet, as the French might call it. If the first interpretation of this parable moved us a little, and the second moved us a bit more, this third one is like Jesus tossing a Hail Mary… deep. Instead of thinking of yourself as soil or seeds, what if you are the sower? I know, I know. This sounds blasphemous! You or I are not God—I’m not sure of everything, but I’m sure of that! Still, we are made good. We are made in the image of God.

In Baptism we are graphed into the Body of Christ, we are made one with Jesus in his death, and we are reborn not as our old selves, but as ones who are living in Christ! You are made new in Holy Baptism and given a new life and a new calling.

Let me illustrate this using another favorite Christmas movie, Home Alone. In this movie, Kevin McAlister was forgotten back in Chicago when his family visited Paris. On Christmas Eve, Kevin visits a Santa Claus impersonator to wish for his family’s safe return home. Kevin essentially said to fake Santa, “I know you are not the real Santa, but I know you work for the guy.” We are not God, but through baptism we work for the Guy. Part of our job description is to re-present God to others. Thus, we are called to throw messages from God’s Kingdom, good news from the Reign of Christ not just where we think seeds will grow, but all over the place.

Like our Good Sower who tosses kernels even on paths, among rocks, and in the weeds, we too are called to bring new life and growth to trampled down, painfully hard, and selfish places. Where will you reveal Christ’s transforming love this week? At your work? In your home? At football practice? In the band or choir? At camp? In a theater group? On vacation? Wherever it is, you do not go alone—we go together, and we go with God.

In this parable, you and I are not simply one thing. We are soil, seeds, and sower. We are an environment in which God’s good news can grow. We are the sprouts of new growth in various landscapes. We are scatterers of seeds upon paths, rocks, weeds, and fertile ground. As you discern where God is growing something in you; as you find yourself planted in rough spots, among thorns, or even under manure; as you continue to share God’s good news anywhere and everywhere; know that in this community we work together to amend our soil, we strive together to be God’s good news for others, and we reach out together to share messages of Christ’s Reign!

Next month, we will have an opportunity to wonder together about areas of new growth. On August 6 ^th , 13 ^th , and 20 ^th , we are having the All Saints Open House from 9:45-10:45 in the morning. We’ll also have information up throughout those weeks, plus a new ministry handbook. You can learn about offerings, worship, outreach opportunities, small groups, times of fellowship, chances to lead, and much more. You can learn how you might be soil, seed, and sower within and beyond these walls.

As we move to receive the gift that Christ throws beside us in this parable and in life, trust that with God all things are possible. God makes us good soil, good seeds, and good sowers and calls us to do what we can, with what we’ve got, where we are. Amen.

I Will Give You Rest

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:34:39 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

July 9, 2023 The 6 ^th Sunday after Pentecost

Proper 9A: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

“I Will Give You Rest”

“Amazing breakthrough! Scientists have discovered a revolutionary new treatment that makes you live longer. It enhances your memory and makes you more creative. It makes you look more attractive. It keeps you slim and lowers food cravings. It protects you from cancer and dementia. It wards off colds and the flu. It lowers your risk of heart attacks and stroke, not to mention diabetes. You’ll even feel happier, less depressed, and less anxious. Are you interested?”

This is a fictional advertisement, but the treatment is real and backed up by thousands of scientific studies. And the best part is that it is completely free and available to you tonight. What is this miracle drug? A full night’s sleep. The ad I began with comes from the book Why We Sleep by neuroscientist Matthew Walker, a professor at UC Berkeley. His book explores what sleep is and why it is essential to our physical and mental wellbeing. It’s strange to realize we spend roughly a third of our lives asleep, more time than we’ll spend working at our jobs. And yet we pay little attention to it in our consumer-driven, always-on society. So much of modern life conspires to rob us of this precious commodity. Perhaps it’s not surprising to learn that the CDC estimates that 50-70 million Americans have ongoing sleep disorders. It can be hard to get enough sleep, especially if you’re a new parent and the phrase “sleep like a baby” takes on a very different meaning.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30). Rest for our weary souls. Doesn’t that sound wonderful? Don’t we all long for the rest that Jesus promises, a sense of wellbeing and peace which somehow transcends the outward circumstances of our lives?

Jesus probably wasn’t addressing sleep specifically, but I’m convinced that our physical, mental, and spiritual health are connected. Recently, I heard a therapist say, only half-joking, that most of his clients wouldn’t need him if they would just eat right and get sufficient sleep, exercise, and water. I wonder if the same would be true in my vocation. Would we all be healthier spiritually if we incorporated more rest, recreation, and sleep into our lives? Would our sense of connection to God and to each other be more loving, our sense of meaning and purpose clearer, and our willingness to follow Christ stronger? I think most of us would answer “yes” to these questions.

And that’s where we get to the difficulty of being human. Once we have the knowledge of what is right and good and even the intention to do what is right and good, there is still that bothersome gap between intention and action. And really, even if we get to the action stage, most actions are only transformative when they become habits. And we all know how hard it is to form a new habit. I once heard you can tell the difference between a good habit and a bad habit because bad habits are easy to form and hard to break.

It may be an uphill climb, but good habits can be started later in life. When I need to remind myself of this, I think about flossing. For most of my life I never flossed unless I had eaten ribs or corn on the cob. But about ten years ago I started flossing, and now I rarely miss a day. So you see, dreams do come true!

But seriously, why is it so hard to form a beneficial new habit like a prayer practice or exercise routine? Why is hard to give up something we like that is hurting us or others? It helps to know that even Paul struggled with the gap between intention and action. In his Letter to the Romans, he writes, “I can will what is right, but I cannot do it. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do” (Rom. 7:18-19). Paul’s frustration leads him to lament: “Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?” And then he answers his rhetorical question: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Rom. 7:24-25) He recognizes that it is only by God’s grace that we learn to overcome the gap between intention and action.

Even during the ministry of Jesus, there was great debate over how a righteous person should live. John the Baptist lived an austere life apart from society, while Jesus ate and drank with tax collectors and sinners. And both were criticized by the religious leaders of the time. To this criticism Jesus responds, “Wisdom is vindicated by her deeds” (Matt. 11:19). In other words, any know-it-all can stand on the sidelines criticizing and being cynical, but actions speak louder than words. What fruit does one’s life produce? That’s the real question.

And that’s when Jesus invites his followers to a simpler way. Though it seems counterintuitive, Jesus teaches that, if we want to find rest for our souls, we must take on a his yoke. Now, a yoke is a wooden piece of farm equipment that harnesses an ox or a pair of oxen to a plow. It fits across their shoulders and loops around their necks. The priest’s stole is sometimes said to symbolize the yoke of Christ. Jesus was a carpenter, and there’s an old but probably fanciful story that Jesus used to make the best yokes of any carpenter in Nazareth. His yokes were easy on the necks of the oxen.

Of course, here Jesus uses the term metaphorically. In those days, the rabbis would sometimes speak of the yoke of Torah. The yoke of Torah was given by God to guide the people through the difficulties of life. But well-meaning religious professionals had added to the Torah to the point that it had become a burden to the average person. What was meant to draw people to God was actually building a fence around God that no one could climb. Jesus invites his followers to take on his yoke, because it captures the heart of the Torah. And the essence of his yoke is contained in those two simple but profound commandments to love. As today’s collect puts it: “O God, you have taught us to keep all your commandments by loving you and our neighbor.”

Now we may think, “Hey, I don’t want a yoke around my neck. I don’t want to be yoked to anything. I want to be free.” But the reality is we don’t have the option of avoiding a yoke altogether. We are all going to be yoked to something. Whatever is most important to us will become the yoke that steers us. As Bob Dylan sang in a song recorded just up the road at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, “It may be the devil and it may be the Lord, but you’re gonna have to serve somebody.” Jesus is calling us to yoke ourselves to him. And he promised his yoke is easy, not because it leads to a life of leisure. Rather, it is easy in the sense that it will guide us in our true work of serving God. And it’s in God’s service that we find perfect freedom, as St. Augustine put it.

And so science confirms what the Bible reveals: we are designed to work, and we are designed to rest from work. Even God rested on the seventh day. And God commanded the Israelites to rest on the Sabbath, reminding them that their ancestors were slaves in Egypt. And slaves don’t a day of rest. To fail to rest is to submit to a yoke of slavery, as Paul writes to the Galatians (Gal. 5:1). The yoke of Jesus is easy because it steers us toward the Sabbath rest that God promises. And it prepares us for the eternal rest that is our destiny.

Our God is not the harsh taskmaster so many people are taught to believe in. God doesn’t give us some arbitrary list of rules to obey out of a need to exert power over us. The law is to help us live joyfully and abundantly within our earthly limits. Our God is the God of the Psalmist who tells us, “The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and of great kindness. The Lord is loving to everyone, and his compassion is over all his works” (Ps. 145:8-9). Our God is a loving parent who invites us to sleep in his warm, protective embrace.

Perhaps you remember being a small child and falling asleep on the sofa or in the car after a full day of playing outside. Maybe you remember the feeling of your mother or father lifting the dead weight of your body and carrying you to your bed without you awaking. Maybe you remember waking up the next morning fully rested, almost unaware of how you wound up in your own bed. When I think of the rest that God offers, that is the image that comes to mind.

I believe sleep is a spiritual practice because like so many spiritual practices, it teaches us to let go and let God. It teaches us to let go of the need to be in control, the need to be productive, the need to be needed. It decenters the ego just long enough to allow our true selves to hear God’s voice. After all, God has been known to communicate through dreams at times. Ultimately, sleep is a spiritual practice because it helps prepare us for that final sleep. It teaches us to trust that when that final sleep comes, we need not be afraid. For we can rest assured that God is watching over us in sleep and will awaken us at the dawning of God’s endless new day.

So let me close with a prayer I love from the service of Evening Prayer in the Book of Common Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, by your death you took away the sting of death: Grant to us your servants so to follow in faith where you have led the way, that we may at length fall asleep peacefully in you and wake up in your likeness; for your tender mercies’ sake. Amen.”

Greeters Wanted!

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:47:39 GMT

Discover the opportunity to greet both familiar faces and newcomers every Sunday at All Saints by being a part of our welcoming team! If you are interested in serving as a greeter for the 8:30am or 11:00am service, please contact Alexa McElroy, alexa@ewbullock.com .

Instruments of Righteousness

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 17:55:09 GMT

“Instruments of Righteousness”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

July 2, 2023

Present your body, Paul says, not as a weapon, but as an instrument. Let God do the tuning. None of us is a one man or woman symphony, we are all servants to one another, members of Christ's body, the church. Therein lies our true freedom and I believe that is more than good enough for rock and roll, you are good enough for God.

Vestry Nominations

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 21:23:06 GMT

All Saints is now accepting applicants for Vestry nominations. This is an open process for the legislative body of the parish and all are welcome to apply to the nominating committee. The nominating committee is made up of outgoing vestry and past senior wardens. Please contact Felicia Noerager, Whit Bird, Mandy Dorsey, Sally Elwood, Jenny Blackmon, Jay Murrill or Bryson Waldo if you are interested.

Applicants for the next class will be voted on at the upcoming Annual Meeting scheduled for November 12, 2023 .

Preschool Needs Teachers!

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 15:24:05 GMT

All Saints Preschool is looking for teachers for 2K and 3K classes. If you are interested in joining a dedicated, creative, and supportive team, please contact Preschool Director Bebe Hardin, bhardin@allsaintsbhm.org .

Contemplative Service

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 20:17:25 GMT

Join us for this contemplative service to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and the wonderful diversity in God’s family, Wednesday June 21 at 6:00pm in our Nave. With reflection, song, and prayers we will lift each other up and celebrate our calling to love others as Christ loved us.

So What?

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 20:16:19 GMT

“So What?”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

June 18, 2023

We know that suffering and death are not given the final word, but that with God, God will be with us in our sufferings and ultimately redeem all that seems so wrong with this world. So what about your question.. so what? Amid our feelings of unworthiness, our insecurities and fears, God loves us. So what?

Intergenerational Sunday School

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 21:44:22 GMT

Vacation Bible School Tour at Intergenerational Sunday School

June 25, 2023

All ages are welcome this week at our Intergenerational Sunday School class where we will take a Vacation Bible School Tour starting at 9:00am in the Great Hall. Please come and check out Jerusalem where our children will learn about what it was like for Jesus to be a child in Israel long ago. If you have any questions contact Seth Olson at solson@allsaintsbhm.org .

The Good Place

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 01:24:19 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

June 11, 2023

Proper 5, Year A Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

“The Good Place”

For a while now, people have been telling me I would enjoy a TV show called The Good Place. It ran for four seasons on NBC from 2016-2020. I’ve been watching it on Netflix recently, and my friends and family were right. A season and a half in, I’m loving it. It truly is my kind of show, a comedy about the afterlife that weaves in a lot of philosophy and ethics. The show stars Kristen Bell as Eleanor, who dies in an embarrassing shopping cart accident as a young woman and awakens in the Good Place. The problem is that Eleanor knows she was selfish and mean in life, and she soon starts to wonder if perhaps she wound up in the Good Place by mistake. Then she befriends three others there, who gradually realize that their lives on earth weren’t as pure as they imagined. Could it be that they all really belong in the Bad Place?

One of my favorite aspects of the show are the characters’ flashbacks to their life on earth and seeing their faces as they realize, “Oh, maybe I wasn’t such a good person after all.” Like when Tahani, a tall, beautiful philanthropist realizes she was only raising billions for charity as a way of competing with her rock star sister. Or when Chidi, the kind and brilliant ethics professor realizes his inability to make decisions (because of all the ethical considerations involved) was actually hurting people.

The show reflects a very popular understanding of ethics and the afterlife among religious and non-religious alike, that life on earth is a kind of game where we earn points for good behavior and lose points for bad behavior. When we die, the game ends, and if we’ve earned enough points, we receive an eternal reward, and if we haven’t, we receive eternal punishment. In the theistic version, God is the divine referee and scorekeeper who determines our ultimate destination. But is that the vision of God and eternity that Jesus taught and modeled by his actions?

The gospel reading from Matthew challenges that notion. Here we find Jesus eating dinner with tax collectors and sinners, even inviting the tax collector Matthew to follow him. We see him break norms as he heals a hemorrhaging woman and revives a little girl who had died.

The gospel reading got me thinking about that word “sinner.” It’s a word I’ve wrestled with during my Christian journey. My discomfort with it began when I started attending Vacation Bible School at my grandmother’s church. I grew up in the Episcopal Church, where I rarely heard that word, even though it does appear in the Bible and the Prayer Book. But my grandmother’s church was of a different denomination, a large and influential one in these parts. And at VBS I was told I was a sinner in need of a savior. I can remember resisting that label. After all, I was a good little boy. Maybe I fought with my brothers or talked back to my mother once in a while, but I wasn’t a sinner, right? That seemed like such a harsh, ugly word, one that didn’t fit who I was deep down.

In the time of Jesus, the label sinner was applied to a broad category of people. It was used to refer to anyone who was either morally or ritually unacceptable in religious society. That included the usual suspects--thieves, prostitutes, and so on--but it could also include those who did business with the occupying Roman government. Sinners were impure and therefore had to be avoided lest their impurity contaminate you. And yet, here was Jesus hanging out with them around the dinner table.

Jesus lived in a religious world in which righteousness was equated with purity. To be in right relationship to God involved following strict laws concerning everything from when you washed your hands to whose home you entered. And when a law was violated, there was a complicated system of sacrifices that help restore a person to purity and inclusion in the religious community. Being a sinner meant being excluded.

We live in a different time, place, and culture, but we are not all that different. We have our own culturally specific rules and regulations about how we’re supposed to live. And we use shaming and shunning to enforce those rules. “You mean you don’t rinse and dry your aluminum cans before putting them in the recycling bin? What kind of monster are you?” But seriously, because human beings depend on social inclusion for survival, we also learn to exploit the fear of being excluded to manipulate others.

We’re like the characters on The Good Place. We fear that if people really know us, they will reject us and exclude us. We project that same fear onto God. We think, “If God really knew me, God would reject me, and punish me, maybe even for eternity.”

Jesus appears in Galilee with a different vision. He doesn’t say that sin isn’t real or that its consequences don’t cause real suffering. He doesn’t say that God turns a blind eye to injustice and cruelty. But he proclaims a new way of addressing sin and sinners. The usual way of being righteous, that is, being in right relationship with God, involved being pure by avoiding sin. And when sin inevitably occurred, then the only way to restore a person was by sacrifice. The bigger the sin, the bigger the sacrifice that was needed. But Jesus draws on his own tradition and quotes the prophet Hosea. He reminds the people that God says, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” And then Jesus declares, “I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”

It would seem that by the time of Jesus, the system of Temple sacrifice had become corrupt. This beautiful gesture of offering to God the fruits of one’s labor as a sign of love and devotion had become merely transactional. It had become an obstacle to true relationship with God. The tax system was even worse as tax collectors enriched themselves by taking a cut of what they collected. Maybe that’s why Jesus chose Matthew the tax collector to follow him. Weren’t tax collectors the most transactional of all? If he could teach Matthew a new way of relating to his neighbors, he could teach anyone. And lest we think this was a problem confined to Judaism in the time of Jesus, look at how quickly Christians turned the sacraments into transactions and then even turned the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus into biggest transaction of them all.

As much as we love accounting metaphors, relationships are not about transactions. Want to ruin a relationship, start keeping score. Relationship are about love and trust. It’s true that love and trust must be based on real words and deeds, but the actions themselves are not the point. They are the outward and visible sign of the relationship. So why would our relationship with God be different? Why would God keep score when what God really wants is to be in relationship with us.

Jesus had no interest in excluding and punishing sinners. The justice that Jesus embodied was not about credits and debits, rewards and punishments, the pure and the impure. It was about showing mercy to the suffering, redeeming the sinful, healing the wounded, including the marginalized, and restoring the broken. In a word, Jesus embodied grace. No one was beyond his mercy, neither the sinner, nor the leader of the synagogue, whose daughter had died. To that father, he proclaims, “She will live.” And to the woman with the hemorrhage, he says, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.”

Jesus shows us that righteousness is a relationship, not a transaction. Righteousness is loving our neighbor, loving our God, and loving ourselves. Righteousness is not about getting it right all the time. It’s about humble faith. Because when we approach God with an attitude of humble faith, God can make us well. God is the only one who knows us completely. And God is the only one who loves us completely. And because I believe this, I can confess that I am a sinner, not out of shame, but because I know my true identity is not “Sinner,” but “Child of God.” And I know that Jesus loves all of us sinners. He likes hanging out with us and having us over for dinner. He loved us sinners enough to die for us, so that we could stop trying to earn points with God and instead enjoy a relationship with God now and into eternity. And that’s a good place to be.

Journey to Israel

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 14:19:08 GMT

Have you ever wanted to see then Holy Land? Now is your chance! We are planning a trip to Israel November 16-24, 2023. Our Rector, the Rev. Brad Landry, along with The Rev. Josiah Rengers, Rector of St. Thomas Episcopal, will be taking a "Biblical Pathways" journey for 9 days right around Thanksgiving. Trips start at $3,898 and include visiting all of the major holy sites like Bethlehem, the Church of the Nativity, the Dead Sea, Jericho, the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum, Mount of Beatitudes, and much more!

To register for this incredible trip, or to find the daily itinerary and what is included in your cost, visit here: https://bit.ly/40bXk4u or call 855-463-3978.

Uniontown Water Donations

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 21:01:14 GMT

The Episcopal Diocese of Alabama is collecting water filters for families in Uniontown! Each water filter costs about $400 and gives a household 6,000 gallons or five years of clean water. This is a welcome gift to a family who has spent too much time and money on bottled water. If you'd like to contribute, give online here: https://bit.ly/44trXFz (choose "Uniontown Water Project" in the drop-down), or send a check payable to the Diocese of Alabama with "Uniontown Water Project" in the memo line and mail it to: Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, 521 20th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203.

Outreach Grants

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 16:24:13 GMT

Each year, All Saints provides outreach grants to help local, statewide, and international partners to build up their ministries. This year's outreach grant application is NOW AVAILABLE and can be found HERE.

Please share with any representatives from potential outreach partners. Applications are due July 31. With questions, contact The Rev. Seth Olson at solson@allsaintsbhm.org .

The Toomuchness of Life And the Freedom of the Trinity

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 15:17:01 GMT

“The Toomuchness of Life And the Freedom of the Trinity”

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

June 4, 2023

Father, Son, and Spirit, Holy Trinity One God, let my words be your words, and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

(Oops) A few years back, when I was a baby priest, when Kim and I were simply two crazy kids without two kids of our own, I received a phone call from a number that I did recognize. This was not at all uncommon, so I picked up the call wondering if it could be a parishioner in need. Then there was that unmistakable pause, an obvious sign that this was not family, friend, or neighbor. Still for some reason, yet unknown to me, I stayed on the line.

The nasally voice on the other end finally came through, “Hello Mr. Olson, this is Debra calling our valued customers on behalf of Charter.” Without any room for me to interrupt, she kept going, “Sir, I have to let you know that this phone call is being monitored for quality assurance purposes.” As she continued, I wondered when she would take a breath, so that I could say I am not interested in whatever she was selling, but still she kept speaking, “What we are doing today is making sure that you are getting the best services at this time okay.” For a second, I thought that was my chance, but she persisted about bundling services and faster internet.

Finally, she took a breath and without thinking the following words emanated from my mouth: “I’m too busy to talk about this.” Before she even got a response out of her mouth, “When would be a good time to…” Click! I hung up the phone! Conversation over!

“I am too busy.” The words shocked me as they exited my mouth. Not that they were untrue then and even more so now, but hearing those words forced me to recognize my unhealthy behavior. Yes, we are all too busy to take phone calls from telemarketers, but “I’m too busy” might as well be the tagline for my life, and I have reason to believe I am not alone.

(Ugh) The contemporary American lifestyle generally and the Homewood way of life specifically is very busy, and pre-pandemic being busy was seen as a badge of honor. A few years back there was a great article written by Greg McKeown entitled “Why We Humblebrag About Being Busy.” To humblebrag is to, in a subtle way, talk about how much time we are spending on this project, that presentation, or some other report. McKeown suggests that the even more disturbing trend is that when we get into a state of “toomuchness” we try to fight it by adding more. More technology, more programming, more stuff does not usually lend itself to a simpler life.

McKeown is not alone in his assessment of the toomuchness of it all. There are others pointing to how we are busying ourselves with more and more programming (more soccer practice, more dance rehearsals, more social clubs, more pickleball games). It is as though we came through the pandemic, tried to keep doing everything we learned during that time to survive, and now we are trying to add back everything else we did before we knew what COVID-19 was. Instead of taking time to rest, when we do have free time, we fill it with doomscrolling through bad news, keeping up with the Jones on social media, or numbing our feelings away with one device or another. I don’t speak just as an observer, I am guilty of this too. Hi, it’s me. I’m the problem it’s me. There is another way though.

A few years ago, Brad’s good friend and pastor at Grace Methodist Church, Stephen Ingram wrote an open letter to the parents of his youth group members informing them that their children are in a bad place. As he wrote, they are “more stressed, full of anxiety, depressed, suicidal, over committed, over medicated, over worked and over extra-curriculared, and it is killing them, sometimes literally.” Ingram informed the parents that their children will probably not go to Harvard, or play professional sport, but that is okay because when we finally stop pushing ourselves and busying ourselves and extra-curricularing ourselves to death, when we finally shut down the devices and turn off the TV and finally let ourselves rest we start to discover something that we cannot otherwise experience. We heard it earlier this morning… It’s the model that God gave to us as a great gift—a gift we too often ignore.

(Aha) God spent a big chunk of time, six whole ages according to Genesis, creating the earth, the stars, the sun, the moon, the waters, everything that crawls, walks, swims, or flies and even us human beings (made in God’s own image). Yet something happened when God culminated this very good work. “And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done.” God rested. God didn’t do anything. God sat around, maybe God strung up a God’s sized hammock to just chill. I don’t know, but God did not do anything. God just was. When was the last time that you just were.

(Whee) McKeown and Ingram and Genesis encourage us to engage in a disciplined pursuit of less. Find the essential things that are crucial for the joy of life, and sand away the rest. It will probably be like cleaning out your closet—messy at first, but eventually freeing after giving away things that feel like they no longer belong to you. Yes, in giving all that away you will feel free. Somewhere in the midst of this freedom, where less is actually more—more joy, more peace, and more love for life—somewhere in this essentialist type of living is an opportunity. We heard that opportunity in today’s Gospel lesson.

This good news comes from the very end of Matthew’s Gospel account. The disciples have found themselves back where they started in Galilee. It’s fitting that Jesus brings them full circle, then he gives them what we call the Great Commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” Now, this commission might sound as though being flies out the window as Jesus said to go and do, but there was one last thing that Jesus said in that commissioning. “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” God is the great I AM, God is within the very act of being.

God in Jesus called his friends up a mountain. Earlier in this chapter of Matthew, the women (followers of Jesus) discovered that the tomb was empty and after conversing with angels, they learned that the disciples were to rendezvous with Christ on a mountaintop.

Yes, they are in Galilee where so much ministry happened, and yet they are called away from the madness of doing, so that they could be with Jesus. Now some of those on the mountain worshipped while others doubted, but neither of these things can happen if we are too busy zooming, scrolling, doing, and going. For us to even know what it is we are to do we must first slow down and be with God in our internal reality—our inner life, within our very souls.

(Yeah) Speaking of reality. Today is Trinity Sunday. When ordained ministers do our best to express the truth of the ultimate reality, which is God’s nature—Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Now, I’ve spent the first ten minutes up here trying to tell you that we are not supposed to do something, so much as we are to be with someone—namely God. Thus, I believe our task on this Sunday is not to comprehend the Trinity but to be with a relational God who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. A God who is healthy community in God’s self. A God who is both self-differentiated and self-giving.

The trouble is that most of our lives we are too busy to experience anything other than the most urgent item on our to-do list, the most pressing family matter, the next bill, or whatever demands our attention. We become slaves to the urgent such that we take no time to slow down enough to notice that we are living within the life of the Trinity—let alone to contemplate the great mystery of God’s nature. To paraphrase Richard Rohr: a mystery (like the Trinity) is not something we cannot understand, it’s something we can endlessly understand. However, we cannot engage in this relationship if we are too busy. God is leaving breadcrumbs leading us home, back to the Table, hinting at how we already are in relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We will miss the greater glimpse of what a highly communal God looks like if we are too focused on doing ministry such that we never are with God simply being in relationship.

God who is both infinite and incarnate, transcendent and immediate, eternal and processing. God who is Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer. God who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is trying to speak with you. Are you too busy to take God’s call? Remember, the Great I AM is with you always, even to the end.

Particularity

Mon, 29 May 2023 02:04:32 GMT

“Particularity”

Pentecost Sunday Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

May 28, 2023

Not just on the feast of Pentecost, but on this feast today I pray that you will recognize your own particularity, your blessed particles that were formed out of the Earth, the presence of God that is as near as your next breath, know it is that Spirit, it is that presence of God that we are living, dying, and being resurrected with Jesus Christ.

EYC "Camp Out & Cook Out" Banquet

Mon, 22 May 2023 02:26:34 GMT

Join our EYC for a "Camp Out and Cook Out" Banquet in the Great Hall to celebrate the year. It will be May 21 from 6:00pm-8:00pm. All youth and families are welcome to be a part of this fun event. Hamburgers & hot dogs will also be available to enjoy.

Please RSVP if you plan on attending HERE.

The Acts of the Apostles of Alabama

Sun, 21 May 2023 22:49:37 GMT

“The Acts of the Apostles in Alabama”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

May 21, 2023

The good news is not only that Jesus is present, the good news is also that you are present, that we are here together experiencing the risen Jesus Christ in "this" upper room. The acts of the apostles is not just a sequel, it's part two of a trilogy that has yet to be composed, and I cant help but wonder, was Saint Luke holding his quill and asking us the question, may I add your name to the story?

VBS Thank You

Tue, 16 May 2023 20:10:18 GMT

Children’s Formation would like to thank all the kids that attended VBS this year as well as the extraordinary number of dedicated volunteers (113!) who made Jerusalem a beautiful and meaningful experience for everyone!

Jerusalem is beautiful this time of year! Just ask anyone who traveled there this summer. Every year during Vacation Bible School, the children “live” in a 1st century city just as Jesus did. This summer we journeyed to the sacred city of Jerusalem. Each day, the children learned more about Jerusalem as Jesus experienced it. The children were divided into the tribes of Israel. These multi-age tribes lived as a family.

- They lived in a tent, wore typical tribal clothing, ate food Jesus would have eaten, and spent the day just as Jesus did.
- They enjoyed family time, authentic snacks, music, Jewish dancing, Synagogue, and most of all – Marketplace!
- In the Marketplace, children had the opportunity to make their own Empty Tomb, figures (three women and the man in white), and cross from the Gospel of Mark to lift up the Risen Christ.
- The children learned about important traditions during Jesus’ life such as a Mezuzah (which means doorpost) and a Shema. A Shema is a scroll with the scripture Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and all your strength.) A Shema goes inside the Mezuzah.
- Other Marketplace Shops were Gethsemane Garden Stone, Bakery, Spices, Coin-Pounding, Coin-Rubbing, Oil Lamp, Stitching, and Games.
- The children also worked together to make a Community Cross Mosaic with stained glass.
- The Elder Tribe (made up of rising 6th graders) took a field trip to Eli's Jerusalem Grill to taste authentic Israeli food and to the Ave Maria Grotto at the St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman to visit miniature replicas of the city of Jerusalem.

We look forward to another journey next year. Join us as we travel to Bethlehem in the Holy Land of Israel!

Since it takes a village, a heartfelt Thank-You goes out to all the dedicated and hard-working volunteers who helped create this memorable experience.

Shalom all my friends,
Jeannie of Jerusalem

Dottie & Brad Bennett
Jenny Blackmon
Adelaide Booth
Bob Boylan
Sophia Bull
Greer Burkholder
Busbee Family
Grace Ann, Hudson, & Kate Barber Campbell
Caroline Carter
Barber Clark
Kay Clements
Lorelle Collins
Melanie Couch
Amelia & Amy Croft
Poppy & Ian Cunningham
Samantha & Spencer Davis
Jennifer Cupps
Martha Ann Denson Crenshaw
Sarah Margaret, William, & Erin Donohoo
Anne Michael & Jennifer Drake
Beka Duvall
Alex Ellis
Sally & Mark Elwood
Ashley Ethridge
Ainsley Fraser
Inge Gilchrist
Jim Gooch
Valerie Gordon
Joe Gribbin
Janet Guest
Lisa Hallman
Lee Handley
Maggie Hanson
Kathryn Harris
Kristen Hefner
Miley & Alice Henton
Callen Hoke
Katie Hollis
Anne Harman Hornbuckle
Tara Hulgan
Maddie & Michelle Hyde
Houston & Amanda Jones
Jak Karn
Hattie & Brad Landry
Wendy Lenhard
Eli Malki
Venita Mann
Kaye Martin
Rachel Mason
Ginny May
Joe McLain
Elena Moreno
Eliza & Leah Murrill
Kim & Seth Olson
Anne Philipp
Julie Phillips
Ponder Family
Pulvere Family
Susan Purinai
Liz Reed
Philip Rhodes
Molly Richardson
Cece & Amy Richmond
Baylor & Amanda Robbins
Sarah Rowe
Lynne Shaw
Lizzy Shepherd
Charles Stone
Jimmy Stout
Kaelin, Maddie, Ayden, and Van Taylor
Nancy Terrell
Terry Thrash
Trisha & Scott Trigg
Elizabeth Vander Kamp
Sally Vick
Brian Viliunas
Brain Wallace
Anna Holt Whaley
Diane Wheeler
Rachel Woodroof
Katherine Worley
Charles Youngson

Urgent Need for Medical Personnel

Mon, 15 May 2023 19:13:13 GMT

Calling all physicians, nurses or pharmacists, do you love Camp McDowell ? Do you love helping the special needs community? If so, there is an urgent need for voluntary medical assistance during a special session coming up at Camp McDowell, June 9-16 . Lodging, meals, friendship and valued relationships will be provided at no cost to you!

You can volunteer for the whole week or just certain days within that week. If interested please contact Lorelle Collins: lorellecollins24@gmail.com

The mission of "Special Session" is to know Christ in all people, through ministry to and with people of all abilities. Their vision is a vibrant, loving community where all God’s children are celebrated. We need your help to be sure the children attending receive the care they may need. Read more HERE

Sawyerville Summer Drive

Thu, 04 May 2023 02:19:50 GMT

All Saints will be collecting pool noodles, pool towels, and individual packs of trail mix for Sawyerville. We will be collecting these items in our Great Hall until May 22. If you have questions reach out to Grace Turner, gturner@allsaintsbhm.org .

Bite Into Generosity & Lawn Party

Wed, 03 May 2023 16:42:47 GMT

All Saints loves Homewood, and we love Little Donkey & Good People Brewing Company for partnering with us to offer, " Bite Into Generosity: A Family Meal Fundraiser " and a lawn party in coordination with " We Love Homewood Day" , Saturday, May 6th, from 4:00pm-6:00pm on Terrell Commons.

We are raising money to benefit our Outreach Grant Programs that serve those in need around our area. Our meal fundraiser is complete, thank you for those of you that ordered meals! If you ordered a meal, you can pick them up between 4:00pm & 6:00pm on Terrell Commons. And then while there...

....join us for our lawn party on Terrell Commons next to Oxmoor Road in conjunction with “We Love Homewood Day”. As you know we are right next to the parade route so come enjoy the food and fun with us starting at 4pm and then stick around to watch the parade. Little Donkey will have their food truck on-site during these times with light snacks and drinks. We are so thankful for their support as well as Good People Brewing that is donating beverages for you to enjoy.

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will have the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

DEADLINE to order meals is May 3rd

*Be sure to select "Outreach Grants" in the dropdown

**Side note, are you a horse racing fan? We will h ave the Kentucky Derby available to watch. Since the parade starts around the same time, come enjoy both at the same time!

If you have any questions reach out to Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Thank you so very much for your support and look forward to seeing you and your neighbors soon!

Donation Drive

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 14:43:47 GMT

Donation drive, this Saturday, April 29 at the Lee Community Center ! The Rhineharts lost most everything in a house fire on Good Friday. They were renting one of three affordable homes managed by the all-volunteer, non-profit Rosedale Community Development Corporation (RCDC), which works to strengthen the Rosedale community. Contact Pastor Byron White ( 205-585-4116 ) or Dennis Bush ( 205-249-5320 ).

You can donate anything you think will help. Here are a few things specifically mentioned as a need related to clothes:

Clothing

Two males

Shirts: M, 2X
Pants: 40/32
Joggers: L, 2X
Underwear: M, XL
Shoes: 10,11

Three Females

Shirts: 2X
Pants: 1, 16, 18
Joggers: S, 2X
Underwear: Women's
Shoes: 4, 7, 11

Zentangle Workshop

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 18:28:27 GMT

Want to enjoy learning a meditative practice of drawing structured patterns that create beautiful images? Then join Elizabeth Vanderkamp for a Zentangle Workshop, Sunday, April 30th from 3:00pm-5:00pm in Room 223. The cost is $40 per person or $70 per couple and is open to ages 10 and up. Supplies and scrumptious snacks will be provided.

The Zentangle® method is an easy-to-learn method and you don't have to know how to draw! Using structured patterns that rely on simple shapes, beautiful artwork quickly emerges.

If you are interested in participating, text Elizabeth 205-441-8462

True Companionship

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 21:02:02 GMT

“True Companionship”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

April 23, 2023

There is so much for us to learn n the road, true companionship starts with listening and risking the truth, and it is irresistibly transformative. Just as Jesus was made known in the breaking of the bread, so may we be known as disciples by our acts of true companionship. Come, risen Lord, and deign to be our guest; no, let us be your guests and with you dine; at your own table now be manifest in your own sacrament of bread and wine.

Paperless Sunday

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 00:57:29 GMT

As part of "Creation Care Sunday", All Saints is going paperless! Each Sunday we use approximately 2,000 pages for our bulletins. Paperless will not be a permanent change, just a way to highlight our usage and honor "Earth Day".

You will find QR codes that will provide links to the bulletins in the Nave and Cloister. If you like accessing them in that way, the QR's are already there every Sunday so feel free to do this every week.
The congregation will still be able to fully participate without a paper bulletin using either a digital bulletin or the prayerbook/hymnal.
The Celebrant will announce prayer book page numbers and hymn numbers where needed.
If you are able, please walk or bike or scoot or rollerblade or whatever to church today April 23rd! There will be a blessing of the bikes outside on the patio immediately following both services.

A Black Cat and the Resurrection

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:42:51 GMT

“A Black Cat and the Resurrection”

Sermon by The Rev. Charles Youngson

April 16, 2023

On Palm Sunday 2012 our cat Joey went outside. This was not unusual, though she was primarily an indoor cat. What was unusual was that she wasn’t scratching at the door a little while later to come back in. We went to bed that night concerned but confident she would be at the doorstep in the morning. But she wasn’t. Days went by, and we began to search the neighborhood and ask our neighbors if they had seen her. It seemed everywhere I looked, I saw a black cat, (there are a lot of black cats in the world), but none of them turned out to be Joey. After several weeks, we began to accept that we would never see Joey again. I desperately wanted confirmation that she was alive or dead to say goodbye.

Then one day, 67 days after she disappeared, I got a call at work. Joey was alive and standing in the kitchen. She had come back from the dead or so it seemed. We took her to the vet, and she couldn’t find anything medically wrong with her. But Joey was very skinny and wasn’t eating. A few days later I sat in the living room and held Joey in my arms as she took her last breath. I shed a few tears as I remembered twelve years in three states with our first little fur baby. And then on that scorching hot afternoon, I dug a hole in the back yard. I modified a few prayers from the burial service in the Prayer Book and committed Joey’s body to the earth. We happened to have decorative stone in the shape of a sleeping cat, and so we used that to mark her grave. Despite our sadness, we were so thankful we got the opportunity to hold her little furry body again.

As much as we humans are preoccupied with thoughts and words and images on screens, we are first and foremost creatures of flesh and blood. We are sensory beings experiencing the world through touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing. And we show love for one another in tangible ways: a hug, a home-cooked meal, a bouquet of flowers.

The disciple Thomas was no different. If this incredible story his friends were telling him was true, then he wanted to touch Jesus once more. He wanted to touch his wounded body to know with certainty his teacher had really died and really returned from the dead, not as a ghost, but in the flesh.

After being absent from the community—we don’t know why--he gets that opportunity. Jesus again appears among the Twelve. They see him with their eyes. And they hear his voice as he says, “Peace be with you.” Then he invites Thomas to touch his wounds so that he can believe. It’s unclear if Thomas actually touches Jesus, but regardless, his next words tell us that he’s had a powerful revelation. He exclaims, “My Lord and my God.” In that moment, he knows that he is in the presence of God. His doubt and fear turn into faith and peace.

I’ve been thinking about the pandemic this week as President Biden signed a bill to officially end the Covid public health emergency. It’s certainly still around as some of you can attest. And it will continue to disrupt things and cause suffering and death. But thankfully three years later, things are much better. I think back to those early days when Seth and I would hand each other a piece of paper using a Kleenex (all the while unmasked). Back then some people enjoyed the slower pace at home with family. Others found themselves working harder than ever.

But in addition to the physical suffering and death the virus caused, it also inflicted another cruelty in the way it isolated us from community and cut us off from human touch. There were no friendly handshakes at church. Teachers struggled to keep the attention of their young students through a screen. Even if grandparents could visit their grandchildren, they couldn’t hug them. Priests and pastors who would have been laying hands on the sick and dying in the hospital had to pray remotely while a compassionate nurse held a phone up to the dying person’s ears. In some cases, a wife dropped off her husband at the hospital and never saw him again. The heartaches and challenges of the last few years remind us how necessary touch is to our wellbeing. It’s one of the primary ways we bond with one another. Newborns will fail to thrive and can even die without skin-to-skin contact.

As much as I am grateful for the technology that kept us connected during the pandemic and continues to help us reach a wider audience today, I still maintain there is no substitute for gathering in person, in the flesh, in community. Christians are people of the Incarnation. We dare to claim that the God who created all things and who is before and beyond all time, took on our mortal flesh. And so, our two biggest holidays, Christmas and Easter, are essentially linked because Incarnation and Resurrection go hand in hand. They both celebrate the fact that God is united with the stuff of this world. Jesus was born at a particular time and place, which we celebrate at Christmas. And Jesus died and rose again at a particular time and place, which we celebrate at Easter.

But these are not mere events from the past. They form an eternal pattern. The Incarnation has always been true, meaning that God has been revealed through ordinary matter from the beginning. And the Paschal Mystery, the mystery death and resurrection revealed at Easter, is the shape that God’s love has always taken in this everchanging world of form. You can find examples all around you of how God brings new life out of death in our world and in our own lives. We watch as winter turns to spring and last year’s decaying leaves enrich the soil for new plants to grow. Someone overcomes addiction and begins life anew. The death of a loved one inspires someone to start a ministry to support others in grief.

The Buddhist tradition teaches that we live in a world of impermanence, a world in which everything is in the process of forming and dissolving and forming again. We suffer because we want to hang on to things that cannot last. As Christians we have our own way of talking about this truth. We believe that God is in all things, but we are not to make an idol of anything. We are not to worship the things of this world. I think that’s why the risen Christ tells Mary at the tomb, “Do not cling to me,” in the Gospel reading from Easter Day. As much as she would want to hang onto his resurrected form, even the risen Lord must ascend to the Father. We are called to love and honor creation: nature, animals, other people, our bodies. We can honor sacred symbols: holy places and objects, the liturgy, the Bible, and the bread and wine of the Eucharist. We honor all these things because they point beyond themselves toward the immortal, invisible God. But we should not worship them as God or treat them as a substitute for God. In some ways it would be much easier if we could worship a book or a person or a piece of holy bread, something we could see with our eyes and touch with our hands. But whenever we try this, we find ourselves disappointed and dejected eventually, because nothing in this world can last.

Thomas and the disciples could experience the risen Christ with their five senses, but they couldn’t hold onto to him. They couldn’t build a shrine around him to capture him for eternity. We want so badly to have God in a box, one we can open whenever we like and close whenever we like. But that God would be too small. We need a God who is big enough to overcome the very real power of sin and death. But we also need a God who is small enough to be with us and within us, a God who are always there, a God we can touch. And is the God we have. We need a God who has experienced birth and life and death. And we need a God who has transcended birth and life and death. And that is what we have. And the best news is that through Christ we share in this mystery. While God doesn’t rescue us from all suffering and loss, God does promise to be with us, beside us, within us, and around us. Through the power of the resurrection, Christ transcends the limits of this world to reveal the presence of God in things as ordinary as water, bread, and wine, or even a black cat.

There is an interesting follow-up to the story of Joey the cat. One night not long after Joey had died, my former wife Susie had a dream, a very vivid dream, which she said I could share with you. In that dream, Joey appeared to her. And though she didn’t communicate with words, she led Susie to the back yard of our house, and she showed her the place where she had been buried. The stone we had place over her grave, the one in the shape of a sleeping cat, had been rolled away, and her tomb was empty. Without words, Joey let Susie know that she was not in that grave, that she was happy and at peace.

May we all experience the extraordinary power of Christ’s resurrection in the ordinary things of our lives. Alleluia Christ is risen.

Special Sunday Line-up

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 15:14:58 GMT

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a special line-up, this Sunday May 7!

The day starts with prayer and youth music concert, featuring our children's choir and youth choir, starting at 8:45am (* note the special time of the start of this service ). This time change helps accommodate logistics for everything that needs to be ready. There will be no eucharist for this 8:45am service, but there will be at the 11:00am and 5:30pm services.

Next up, join us in the Great Hall for speaker and author Becca Stevens. She is a childhood survivor of sexual abuse. She opened Thistle Farms, a two-year residential community for women survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction in 1997 in Nashville. You can find more about her HERE .

Becca isn't done after that, she will be our guest preacher for the 11:00am service. The 5:30pm service will be as normal.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Avondale Breakfast Ministry

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 23:12:47 GMT

Every Wednesday, at the corner of 41st Street and 2nd Avenue in Avondale, a large group of our homeless or underemployed friends show up to receive breakfast, toiletries and a loving greeting! Regulars like "Terrific Tammy" or "Mocha Mike" gratefully offer hugs and handshakes as they receive much needed supplies and a meal. All Saints parishioners fund this ministry while also taking the time every week to be a part of giving back.

Started in 2019, the Avondale Breakfast Ministry, aka “ABM”, is vital work done by four local parishes to provide a breakfast meal in the Avondale neighborhood. Different churches provide this service Tuesday through Friday at approximately 8:30am. All Saints serves on Wednesdays.

Would you like to get involved? Show up any Wednesday at 8:30am at the corner of 41st and 2nd Avenue South (close to Avondale Brewery). If that schedule doesn't work for you, here are some other ways to help:

Donate items for breakfast bags such as packaged cheese crackers, cereal bars, oatmeal pies, box drinks and bottled water.
Donate toiletries such as hotel size shampoo, conditioner and body lotion, toothbrushes, travel size toothpaste and deodorant, full length socks and soap.
Donate directly to All Saints via check or Realm. *Please be sure to note that the donation is for "ABM".

*Note: You can drop your donation in the "general donation" basket that is near or in the Great Hall depending on activities going on.

Churches that have teams serving other days of the week are St. Thomas, Church of the Ascension, and The Abbey. Each parish provides something a bit different, but it usually includes a hot beverage, a hot breakfast item or sandwich, fresh fruit, bottled water, and shelf-stable snacks. We serve 25-40 friends and visit with them while they enjoy the meal. Some save it for later or take a bag home to a loved one.

The ministry is self-funded currently meaning there is no direct support from the parishes other than the use of facilities for storage and food preparation. We do have a few generous people who donate regularly.

If you are interested in learning more or have questions, please contact Ron May: rmay15@gmail.com .

Children's Formation Celebrations

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 15:40:25 GMT

Who: All Level III Children (4th, 5th, and 6th graders)

What: Lunch and End-of-the-Year Celebration

When: Sunday, May 7, 12:15pm - 2:00pm

Where: We will meet in the Great Hall following the 11:00am service then walk as a group to Kathleen's house: 208 Clermont Drive, pick up is at my house

RSVP - by Friday, May 5th so I have a head count for food

***Special note for 6th grade families: 6th Graders will be honored with a Prayer Book during the announcements of the 11:00 service for their transition from atrium to EYC. Please let me know by Friday, May 5, if your 6th grade child will be at the service. Thank you!

Learn to Let Go (Easter)

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:57:55 GMT

“Learn to Let Go”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

April 9, 2023

Letting go is one of the most difficult aspects of the spiritual life. Letting go of the illusion of control, letting go of your ego, whatever it is that is preventing us from receiving the gift of what is being revealed. On the way to resurrected life, do not hold on for dear life, but learn to let go.

Life is More Than a Journey

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:55:37 GMT

“Life is More Than a Journey”

Sermon by The Rev. Charles Youngson

April 8, 2023

Through our own journey we come to understand that death and resurrection form the pattern God's love takes in this world. The empty tomb bears witness to the power of God's love, a love that turns darkness into light, sin into righteousness, doubt into faith, bondage into freedom and death into life. Christ is with us as our companion and guide, come and see, then go and tell.

It is Not the End (Good Friday)

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:52:01 GMT

“It is Not the End”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

April 7, 2023

The crucifixion is still happening today, children dying in schools, human rights are deteriorated , As sinful systems degrade and oppress human beings the crucification isn't a thing of past, but a present realty. It would seem all that is left to do is give up. That all that is left to do is die. Acknowledging the suffering in our lives, in the end all shall be well and if is not well, it is not the end. On Good Friday, all is not well. Jesus along with many of our hopes and dreams has been crucified. Jesus along with many of those we love has died. Yet we hold on to this small kernel of hope, in the end, all shall be well. And if all is not well, it is not the end.

Remember and Love (Maundy Thursday)

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:48:15 GMT

“Remember and Love”

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

April 6, 2023

This is a Nintendo 64. In the US, it was released in the fall of 1996 . I know this because one of my childhood best friends Jeremy Drummond received one—together we played on that console for endless hours conquering Super Mario 64, James Bond: Goldeneye, Starfox, Mario Kart, and Super Smash Bros. The reason I show you this video gaming system though is not for the sake of nostalgia, nor to describe my misspent youth, nor even to humbly brag about my gaming prowess. Rather, it is to tell you a hard truth about the human brain—our own computing system so to speak.

Despite all the amazing technological advancements that we have collectively accomplished as a human species, our minds have not evolved much—if at all—since the days of Jesus of Nazareth. In truth, our conscious minds are not even equivalent to 64-bit gaming system like this one. Consciously, we can only process about 40 to 50 bits of information a second. [1] Sure, we can easily recall a seven-digit phone number, but what about throwing in a funky area code? Of course, we can keep three details in our brains, except what happens when someone throws in another question on top of that? Everything is fine while checking off chores in the kitchen, and yet our minds often go blank as to why we walked into the living room to do something else. The heartening thing is that we are not simply our conscious minds. Our minds work to make sense with logic and reason—very good things! We in the Episcopal Church often state that reason is among the most important principles of our shared Faith along with Scripture and Tradition.

Still, we are not only a disembodied brain that floats through time and space. Recalling another mid-1990s cultural reference (yes, I like to keep it fresh with sermon illustrations), we are not the tiny alien from the movie Men In Black , which controlled a human suit. There is more to us than simply what we think. Our beings are not confined to the neurons firing along synapses. And, while our conscious mind is like an outdated gaming console, our subconscious—our hearts and souls, if you will—are like a vast bank of servers powering a more sophisticated and mysterious computing network.

To this end—understanding our conscious mind and our subconscious awareness—let’s do a couple of things. First, what is your mind focusing on tonight? Right now, what are you thinking? You might be thinking about what I am saying right now. If so, thank you. Maybe you are thinking of what awaits you at home, at work tomorrow, or on your never-ending to-do list. If you are a youth, you might be dreaming about the ice cream sundae bar after this service. If you are a worship leader, maybe you are thinking of your next part in the service. Constantly though our minds are generating thought after thought, and if you are anything like me, you might get distracted by any one of them.

The supercomputers that are our subconscious though can pick up on things that our conscious mind does not easily hold. Even though you probably are not thinking about it, some part of you knows what the seat underneath you feels like. Pertaining to air temperature, if you feel comfortable in here you probably aren’t thinking that it’s too warm or too cold, but that’s data we are taking in all the time. Are you aware of your breath rate or how loudly your neighbor is breathing? Maybe not until I said something. You see our conscious mind is only the tip of the iceberg of who we are and how we engage with the world around us.

Now I’d like to try something else. It’s a bit different, but I figure if you are willing to come to a service with foot washing, maybe you are the adventurous type. Stick out your hand and raise a finger—not the middle one, as that might give us the wrong idea—lift up your index finger. Slow down your breathing and concentrate on your finger for ten seconds. Keep breathing, now look past your finger for ten seconds. Again, focus on your finger. And, now past it again.

This is vergence brain spotting—a mindfulness technique my therapist taught me. It’s designed to bring your whole self back into the room. So now that we are back in the room, let us go back into the upper room on that night long ago.

In that room, there was a lot that was happening. Surely the disciples could not hold all of it with their video game brains—their conscious minds had to be flooded with so much. In three Gospel accounts (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist during (what we call) the Last Supper. We heard those words in our Second Lesson filtered through a letter Paul wrote to the Corinthians. Throughout John’s telling of the Good News, Jesus was revealed as the Bread of heaven, so the institution of Holy Communion is missing. Instead, the holy ritual on that night was something wholly different—the teacher Jesus washed his students’ feet.

Did the disciples focus on “Do this in remembrance of me” or “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another”? Were they thinking of all the details of the Passover feast or were they concerned about Jesus’ increased anxiety, as he had been warning that he must undergo suffering? Were they keyed in on the practical, the spiritual, both or neither? What about us? Our minds, like theirs, may hone in on a specific detail, but our supercomputing souls are taking in terabytes of data.

What is the sensation of having water poured over your foot? And, how does it make you feel emotionally—anxious, uncomfortable, sad, confused, excited? What do the bread and wine smell like, how do they taste, is there a specific sensation you feel when consuming them? Are there emotions that are provoked when devouring these elements? What do the hymns sound like in your ears? How do they make your heart sing or sigh, laugh or cry? When the light fades, when the night comes, when the darkness encroaches—what then? There is more happening here than what our minds can hold.

Every year when we walk this way with Christ more and more layers of meaning are added onto this three-day-long service known as the Triduum. Simplifying things though, our tasks—given to us by Jesus on this night—are to remember and to love. More fully stated—we are to do this, so we may remember and we are to love as he loved. He did not say, “Do this to understand me,” nor did he offer a manipulative eye for an eye relationship. He was not interested in doing this to exclude anyone, nor was his focus on a giddy feeling we denote as “love.” Instead, we are to remember him and to love like him. We are to remember and to love.

We are to remember the things, which happened throughout those three days long ago—Jesus’ betrayal, Passion, and death. These events necessitate us to remember Christ because people just like us tore him apart. We are called to re-member him, to put Christ back together, as we acknowledge our part in continuing to tear apart Christ’s Body any time we injure, maim, or sever a member of the human family.

And we are to love. We are called to love like Jesus did. In the verses omitted (by the formers of our Lectionary) from John 13 in the middle of tonight’s Gospel lesson, we discover that Jesus knew his betrayer Judas was in his presence. Jesus still chose to love Judas by washing his feet. This was not cheap love, this was not an empty gesture, nor was this only a feeling. When Jesus said, “love like me” it was costly, it was a choice, and it was a sacrifice. We are to love and to remember, to remember Christ and to love like Jesus.

Our minds might try to make this a simple task of thinking about Jesus’ betrayal, Passion, and death during the Triduum, these next three days, or even throughout our lives, but there’s more. Our minds might even make this a feat for our bodies to undergo—having our feet washed or consuming the bread and the wine, the Body and the Blood, but there’s more still. It is the very purpose of our lives and the highest aim of our souls to be here, to remember, and to experience the love of Christ, then to share that love abundantly.

The love of Christ will not fully be revealed tonight. Certainly, we will not hold its breadth and depth only in our minds. Like missing verses in our lives, we won’t comprehend the self-sacrificing love of this night, of the cross, and of Christ on this side of the grave. As Paul wrote elsewhere to the Corinthians, now we only see dimly, like in a cloudy reflection. What is clear though, is that Jesus loved his betrayer fully knowing that he would be betrayed. He loved his disciples knowing fully they would abandon him. He loves us too knowing fully we will let him down.

Though each of us will betray and abandon God by not seeing Christ in each other and in ourselves, God in Christ loves us still, loves us anyway, loves us always. Tonight, remember Christ as we collectively constitute the Body—receiving Christ’s Body in Holy Eucharist. Tonight, experience with your heart, soul, strength, and yes your mind the love of Christ—taking on the new commandment to love, like Jesus did. Tonight, through these holy days, and throughout our lives, may we not only think about Jesus—His betrayal, Passion, and death—but may we also re-member the Body of Christ, as we follow Jesus’ commandment to love like Him.

New Door Keypads

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 18:16:32 GMT

As All Saints continues to evaluate our overall security measures, we have added digital keypads on the King Garden door that goes into the preschool and the atrium doors. Parishioners will use the same code they use for the front doors to access these areas from the outside. The atrium doors will at times be scheduled to open, typically on Wednesday evenings for activities and Sunday mornings. Any time these doors are scheduled to be open, no code will be necessary. The King Garden doors will remain locked at all times.

Both doors are also now fully ADA compliant and match all fire code obligations. There is an automatic sensor on the inside that should unlock the door as you approach it from the inside. If it does not, you can exit with a waive of the hand or pushing the accessible button near the door.

If you are an All Saints parishioner and you do not have a door code, you can REQUEST ONE HERE .

Donate Flowers

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 17:39:23 GMT

Please bring a flower Easter Sunday, April 9, to help us "flower" the cross that we place in front of the church. Try to bring them before the 9:00am service. If you have any questions, reach out to Kathlene Busbee: kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org

Easter Memorial Gift

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 17:24:06 GMT

Give a gift to the church in memory of someone special in your life! You can contribute $25 to either our flower or music fund HERE . If you choose music, your gift will go directly to cover the expenses of hiring additional instrumentalists for Easter. These musical enhancements in worship during this meaningful time of the church year deepen the experience.

Your gift can be put in the alms basin, paid through Realm, or sent directly to the church office. Please remember to include “Easter Flower Fund” or "Easter Music Fund" in the memo section of your contribution. The deadline for memorials is Monday, April 3rd.

Who is This?

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:26:49 GMT

“Who is This?”

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

April 2, 2023

“When [Jesus] entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, ‘Who is this?’”

On a day long ago, the entire Holy City asked, “Who is this?” As Jerusalem experienced the unsettled turbulence, the fever pitch, the near riots, they collectively yearned to know who this Jesus was. By my count, today’s service features about 65 different answers for this question through various descriptors of Jesus—from grand titles like “Son of Man” or “King of Israel” to expressive phrases like “self-emptying one” or “oh, most afflicted.” Back on the first Palm Sunday, the crowds ran ahead of Jesus cutting down branches and throwing down garments, as they had their own answer for Jerusalem’s question, shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” and “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.” (italics added for emphasis)

Surely the disciples were among the crowds. They had professed already who this was. “The Messiah, the Son of the Living God,” attested their spokesperson Peter. Later in this week, though these same followers would answer the question about Jesus’ identity differently.

Judas full of greed and disappointment betrayed his teacher with a kiss, only to later experience the kiss of death as the aftermath of his guilt and shame. Peter after Jesus foretold of the disciples’ threefold denial replied, “Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you.” The other disciples chimed in likewise, but a cockcrow would be the alarm that awakened them from their denial! In the garden Peter, James, and John (the ultra-disciples) could not keep watch with Jesus falling asleep instead. When those with swords and clubs arrived to arrest Jesus, one disciple seethed with rage such that he turned to aggression with a blade.

The disciples’ replies to the question, “Who is this?” were not to hold up Jesus as “the Messiah, the Son of the Living God,” nor as a Prophet, nor even as their rabbi. Instead, through betrayal, denial, unconsciousness, and violence they let their words and actions speak disbelief, fear, and faithlessness.

The danger with pointing out the disciples’ sin-soaked responses comes when I try to wash my own hands of Jesus’ death, like Pilate did. I claim that it was the disciples’ missteps and inaction, not mine. I likewise blame it upon religion and politics, the Jewish or the Roman people, not me. I so easily slide into the crowd to run from my own part in the story—how I might answer the question. And yet, even there hiding in the masses, I discover that out of one side of my mouth I call Jesus: Savior, King, Prince of Life, beloved, friend; then out of the other: slave, imposter, accused. Worst of all is the cry ringing out of my mouth for Jesus to be crucified. “Let him be crucified!”

Over and over again, I crucify Christ, we crucify Christ—not only in ancient Jerusalem, but throughout the ages in the deaths of martyrs and innocents, and in our day, at Columbine or Covenant, at Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston or at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Vestavia Hills. It would be easier for us, for me to just look away!

This is the danger: to sit back comfortably and wait for a week to pass, so that I may drop in wearing my Easter best to sing my favorite hymns and never acknowledge my part in the story, my part in Jesus’ betrayal, Passion, and death—my part in the crucifixion of Christ.

What if you and I did not know how this story will end? What if we were to watch with the crowds, the disciples, and Pilate? Better still, what if we were to walk with the women—Mary Magdalene, the other Mary, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee—to see how this story unfolds? What if we wondered anew, “Who is this?”

This week suspend what you think you know. Look past the answers that the disciples, religion, politics, or others tell you about who Jesus is. Instead, walk the way of Holy Week, and ponder, “Who is this?”

Rites of Renewal

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:39:12 GMT

As we move through the preparatory season of Lent, which helps us to ready ourselves and our souls for a glorious Easter, we are reaching out to all newcomers and new members with a special invitation. We invite you to consider deepening your own faith. Namely, we would love for you to join us at the Catechumenate and to consider taking part in a rite of renewal. You may be wondering, what is the Catechumenate and what are rites of renewal?

If you are unfamiliar with the Catechumenate, it is an offering on Sunday mornings at 9:45 in the Great Hall in which we hear a brief presentation from clergy or lay teachers (known as catechists) about an aspect of our faith, then we have time for table discussions to interpret what we have learned. The purpose of the Catechumenate is to deepen our faith as we prepare for rites of renewal, which are Holy Baptism, Confirmation, Renewal of Baptismal Vows, and Reception into the Episcopal Church.

Are you interested in going through one of these rites? If so, please consider doing the following:

Join us for Catechumenate classes on Sunday mornings at 9:45am in the Great Hall throughout the spring through May 28 .
Send Tara Portney ( office@allsaintsbhm.org ) letting her know your interest in a rite of renewal.
Save the date for Bishop Glenda Curry’s visit with us for the Rites of Renewal on April 30 .
While you are on your calendar mark down April 19 (at 6:00pm) or April 26 (at 12:30pm) for a special offering to prepare for the Rites of Renewal, to celebrate our new members, and to share a meal together.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. Thank you for being a part of our community, and we pray that this Lent we will all deepen in relationship with one another and with God.

The Rev. Brad Landry ( blandry@allsaintsbhm.org )

The Rev. Charles Youngson ( cyoungson@allsaintsbhm.org )

The Rev. Seth Olson ( solson@allsaintsbhm.org )

Grief and Belief

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:04:50 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

March 26, 2023

“Grief and Belief”

Charlie Brown cartoons were a staple of my childhood TV viewing. Every Halloween we watched “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” And when Christmas rolled around, we didn’t miss the annual airing of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Some adults would call me Charlie Brown, though not my childhood priest in Tuscaloosa the Rev. Ray Pradat. He called me Linus when I was a preschooler because I carried around a ragged baby blanket everywhere I went. (That’s one of my earliest memories. And yes, I still have what’s left of that blanket.) But to be honest—and I know this is heresy—I never really enjoyed Charlie Brown cartoons. Something bothered me about Charlie Brown. I really wanted to identify with him. After all, here was a cartoon character with my name. But Charlie is an anti-hero, the lovable loser. It drove me crazy that Lucy would never let him kick that football. I should probably go back and watch the Peanuts because I have a feeling there is a lot of wisdom in those cartoons that I missed as a young child. One of the things you learn sooner or later is that disappointment, frustration, and loss are part of life. Charlie Brown gets frustrated a lot. And what does he say when he’s fed up? “Good grief!” Grief is a part of life. As we heard today, even Jesus experienced it. But is there such a thing as good grief?

The gospel reading this morning is one of the most dramatic and frankly creepy passages in the New Testament. Today Jesus is summoned to his visit his friend Lazarus in the town of Bethany just a few miles outside of Jerusalem. He is very close to this family, including the sisters of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. We know Mary and Martha best from the Gospel of Luke. Mary is the starry-eyed dreamer who sits listening at the feet of Jesus, while Martha, the practical one is busy providing for her guests. But on this day, Martha shows that she is also a woman of great faith.

When Jesus and the disciples finally arrive in Bethany, Lazarus has been in the tomb four days. That’s an important detail because there was a popular belief at the time that the soul was permanently separated from the body after three days. So, by this point there would seem to be no hope of reviving Lazarus. First Martha comes to meet Jesus and says, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Now I know this comment sounds like the ultimate guilt trip, but it's really a statement of her faith in Jesus, because she goes on to say, “But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.” And Jesus responds to her faith by telling her quite plainly that Lazarus will rise again. When Martha affirms her belief in the resurrection on the last day, Jesus tells her, “I am the resurrection and the life.”

These “I am” statements are hallmarks of John’s gospel. There are seven of them interspersed throughout it. As we heard last week, just before Jesus heals the man born blind, he tells everyone “I am the light of the world.” After feeding the multitude with only a few loaves, Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life.” We learn in John that Jesus is bread to the hungry, light to the blind, and life to the dead.

Martha then calls for her sister Mary, who comes and meets Jesus and gives him the same line that Martha has. By this point everyone is crying. When Jesus asks about where is Lazarus is buried, they respond “Come and see.” At the beginning of the Gospel of John, Jesus invites the first disciples to “come and see.” He’s inviting them on a journey of faith in which they will witness God’s glory revealed. Notice that in this passage, things are reversed. It’s like they are inviting Jesus to visit our places of heartache and grief. And that’s just what he does.

The next verse, John 11:35, is the shortest but one of the most important verses in the Bible: “Jesus wept.” Or as this translation renders it, “Jesus began to weep.” In that moment, Jesus’ own grief catches up with him. Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus appears in complete control of every situation. And yet here the one who is the bread of life, the light of the world, the resurrection and the life begins to cry. The reason this tiny verse is so important is that it reminds us that Jesus is one of us. Jesus suffered just as all human beings suffer. He suffered not just the physical pain of the cross, but the emotional pain that we all must undergo. He suffered grief at the death of someone he loved.

If we are fortunate enough to live a long life, something most of us would say we want, then we know we will experience the loss of many loved ones. In fact, one of the harsh realities of life is that we eventually lose everything, including these bodies. As someone pointed out this past Wednesday at our Lenten program, there are no luggage racks on hearses. Despite the certainty that everyone who is born must also die, most of us spend our lives denying and resisting this reality. And our culture does everything it can to help us avoid the subject of death by trying to sanitize it and hide it from sight.

The result is that, unlike Mary and Martha, we are disconnected from the reality of death. Because our culture has so few rituals around death and grief, many are unprepared for them when they arrive, as they will. The church calls on us to accept that death and grief are part of the spiritual journey. We began Lent reminding ourselves that we come from the dust and to dust we shall return, and our Lenten program has been a small attempt to help us prepare for the end of earthly life. Because the Christian tradition in its wisdom knows that accepting these inevitabilities doesn’t prevent us from living joyfully and abundantly here and now. In fact, accepting that death and grief are part of life enables us to live fully now if we learn to see through the veil of our tears toward the great mystery that Jesus reveals.

The Lazarus story addresses death and burial, loss and grief, but it also addresses belief and resurrection. This man Jesus, who loved and wept for his friend, also had the power to bring him forth from the grave. This was not meant to be an impressive magic trick. It was not so that we could stand in awe of him from a comfortable distance 2000 years later. Jesus explains clearly why he raised Lazarus, that we might believe. The word “believe” appears eight times in this Gospel reading. Jesus invites us to believe just as he invited Martha that day to believe saying, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.” Here she makes as bold a confession of faith in Jesus as Peter does in the other three gospels. Peter’s Confession has its own major feast day in the church calendar. Martha doesn’t get quite the same recognition, just sayin’.

So what does it mean to believe in Jesus the way that Martha and Mary believe. Belief in John goes much deeper than our modern usage of the word. It’s more than giving intellectual consent to something that in uncertain, like saying “I believe it might rain today.” To believe in Jesus is to trust that his way is the way that leads to eternal life. That though these mortal bodies will die and return to dust, there is still reason to be joyful. As Paul writes in the passage we read from Romans, “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you.”

The raising of Lazarus is not the same as the resurrection of Jesus. After all, Lazarus did go on to die again. But it foreshadows the resurrection of Jesus. And it shows us that Jesus has power over death so that we can live with joy and hope in this world of grief and loss.

When Jesus begins to weep, notice how the people respond. They say, “Look how much he loved him.” Jesus experienced grief because Jesus experienced love, actual human love for his friends. We only grieve what we love. Grief is only good in that it reminds us of the centrality of love. For a life without grief would be a life without love, and that would not be life at all. In all that he does, from the raising of Lazarus to his own death and resurrection, Jesus proclaims a message that love is stronger than death. That is my core belief.

The thing I love about Charlie Brown movies is that no matter how much good grief Charlie and his quirky friends have gone through, at the end of the show, they take the stage and dance to Schroeder on the piano, Pigpen on the upright bass, and Snoopy on guitar. Each child has their own unique dance.

There is no life free from struggle. There is no life without loss. But if we believe in the way of love that Jesus embodied, we can find joy and meaning even in the worst of circumstances. So, I’m giving you a homework assignment. Sometime this week, I want you to tell God whatever it is you are grieving right now. I want you to trust that God is bringing new life out of that situation, and then I want you to turn on the Peanuts theme song and dance like Charlie Brown.

International Peace Conference

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 19:06:51 GMT

The 2023 International Peace Conference (IPC), is May 4-7 here is Birmingham. IPC will bring together people from across our nation and the globe to highlight the pursuit of peace at all levels of society. This two-day immersive experience will bring together Rotarians and non-Rotarians and distinguished leaders in academia, government, public safety, religion, business, and community service to share ideas and propose solutions to some of society’s most complex challenges. Programs and approaches that are already making a positive impact will be highlighted.

The conference will take place at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center, 1160 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd. Register & more info here: https://bit.ly/3VabIcv

Divorce Recovery Group

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 18:11:56 GMT

The All Saints divorce recovery group will be offering conversation, prayer, and support as we seek God’s healing through the challenges of rebuilding at the end of a marriage or other significant relationship. Sessions will be Wednesday evenings, April 12-May 3 from 6:00pm-7:15pm , in the Jackson-Thorpe Room. Refreshments provided. To find out more or to let us know you’re coming, email the Rev. Charles Youngson, cyoungson@allsaintsbhm.org .

Flower Arranging Class

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 17:19:29 GMT

Learn flower arranging from a pro! Dorothy McDaniel will be providing a training session on Tuesday, April 11 at 6:00pm in the Great Hall.

• First, she’ll demonstrate how to build a larger arrangement.

• Then, she’ll help each of us to create a smaller arrangement that we can take home.

• The training session should last an hour or so. Because this time comes during what may be the dinner hour, we’ll have some light refreshments.

There will be a $50 charge to attend , which covers the cost of materials for the arrangement you’ll take home. If you’d like to attend or have questions, please contact Lois Woodward at allsaintshwdflowerguild@gmail.com .

Clearing Our Muddy Vision

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 14:20:07 GMT

“Clearing Our Muddy Vision”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

March 19, 2023

This Lent you and I are being called to wash the muddiness from our eyes and begin to see as Jesus sees. Perhaps Jesus wants to heal our vision to see each other as God see us. God does not see as mortals see, they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.

Soup for the Soul Fundraiser

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 18:57:00 GMT

There is a delectable way to offer assistance to many in need! It is called "Soup for the Soul". You can help by cooking or eating or both! This fundraiser will provide an opportunity to cook soup that will then be sold ( $10 a quart) to provide funding for our "Outreach Grant Programs" such as Family Promise, Grace Works, Sawyerville, and Community Kitchens. Show off your culinary and/or your donating skills by cooking or purchasing them during a ONE DAY SALE Sunday, March 19, 2023.

For all of the cooks out there, over the next couple of weeks, you can stop by any time and pick up empty quart containers located in the Great Hall. Take as many as you like and then bring them back to the church once you have cooked one/some/all of the five soup options below. Instructions and the list of soups to choose from will also be available when you pick up the quarts. Use your own recipe, your grandmother's or pull something from online. The deadline to bring back cooked soup is Sunday, March 19.

Five soups to choose from:

Chicken Noodle
Chili
Vegetable soup ( *please label if vegetarian or contains meat)
Potato Soup
Santa Fe / Taco Soup

**When purchasing on March 19th, please be sure to specify "Outreach" on Realm or in the memo line of your check so that the donations are streamlined to their destination.

Bracketology

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 20:19:23 GMT

Bracketology has come to All Saints! Fill out one bracket, the winner gets a shoutout in church! Fill one out here: https://bit.ly/3JA2FgO .

The password is: Alleluia3!

Mirrors of Truth

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 23:53:44 GMT

“You Are God's Beloved”

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

March 12, 2023

“Magic mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all?” in Disney’s telling of the fairy tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs , the Evil Queen ponders this very question. Unfortunately for the queen, the mirror’s truthful response—that Snow White stands as the fairest in the land—precipitates a dastardly plot to unfold. In this infamous encounter, the Wicked Queen happens upon the harsh reality of honest feedback.

Walter Wangerin, the author elaborated upon this very thing, “In mirrors I see myself. But in mirrors made of glass and silver I never see the whole of myself. I see the me I want to see, and I ignore the rest. [However] mirrors that hide nothing hurt me. They reveal an ugliness I’d rather deny.” Then, Wangerin provides a warning label for those who cannot handle the truth, “Avoid these mirrors of veracity!” [1] Perhaps you have no trouble seeing the mirrors that hold nothing back.

I often find these reflections to be double-edged—both brutal and beneficial. A friend who cuts through the small talk to say how I have hurt him. A spouse who does not obscure how I have let her down. A child who innocently happens upon the very weakness I have tried to hide from the world. A neighbor who sees me in a moment of weakness. A stranger who shows me the painful truth when I was discounting his very humanity. To any of these reflectors of reality, I might want to run away, or even go the way of the Evil Queen—shattering the mirror altogether—or I may simply plead, “Can’t I just ignore the honest mirrors that cause me to see my flawed, authentic self?” Not if I am going to follow in the way that Jesus leads.

Last week and this week in our Gospel lessons, Jesus held up mirrors to would-be-disciples, revealing the life-altering challenges that accompany following in the Way of Christ. Seven days ago, our story revealed the night-time wanderings of Nicodemus. The trained religious leader, Nicodemus, sought answers from the upstart teacher, Jesus. As the Pharisee pressed for solutions to the dilemmas of life, he could only hear literal responses. In the dimly lit encounter, the teacher of Israel struggled to see the light Jesus reflected. At least in that moment all Nicodemus could say was, “How can these things be?” He had a hard time looking in the mirror.

Today, we heard about a woman who approached Jesus in broad daylight. She sought sustenance from an old well. At first, looking at her reflection in the stagnant water she too could only behold Jesus’ literal words. He had no bucket; how could he promise living waters? However, her thirst persisted, as she kept wondering what Jesus was reflecting.

In many ways, she was the opposite of Jesus’ last conversational partner. Nicodemus had a name—she was unnamed by John. Nicodemus was a leader and a teacher of the Israelites—she was an outsider of Jesus’ Faith Tradition being a despised Samaritan. Nicodemus was male, very helpful in a patriarchal society—she was not. Nicodemus held a high standing as a religious leader—she had no power, privilege, or education of which we know. Additionally, she had little status as a multiple-times-divorced woman, and this deserves even more consideration.

What’s happening with all these marriages? Scholars argue over the importance of the multiple nuptials. Was she literally married five times? Were the marriages a symbol of the regimes of the Samaritans—the five political powers who ruled this tribe? Was this an allusion to the five distinct groups who made up the Samaritan people? It’s unclear, but before you start retrospectively shaming this divorcee though, know that Jesus nor John did any such thing.

Still, we might think that she felt some shame from her five divorces. She did come to the well in the middle of the day instead of during the rush of early morning or late afternoon, which may have been a way to avoid others. However, she also could have been at the well at noon to fulfill an ancient pattern about betrothal and marriage. In the Book of Genesis, Jacob met his wife Rachel, where? At a well! When? At noon! Likewise, Abraham’s servant found Isaac’s wife Rebekah, where? At a well! When? At noon! So, what does this mean? Is this woman a soon-to-be blushing bride? Not exactly!

This moment did foreshadow a marriage though, and John’s original audience would have picked up on it. This marriage though was a cosmic union between God and all people (including the Samaritans) through the messianic power of Christ in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. The woman at the well was a forerunner, an apostle, and a first fruit of this universal union being revealed. If she felt any shame in coming to the well at noon, she left it there with her water jug. As Jesus reflected the truth that he was the Messiah, she did not hide away. She did not turn back, nor did it take days or weeks or months for the truth to dawn upon her like it did for Nicodemus. Instead, she saw the truth in Jesus, the ultimate mirror. Even if her every scar was revealed in the reflection, so too was the pathway to healing.

Bare and exposed she was not embarrassed, instead she was enlivened. She dug deeper into the conversation, and the living water began to gush and spring and flow from everywhere. No longer did she feel like she was someone defined by her past. Instead, she was being born of the spirit and of the truth, as she was baptized by the source of living water. Leaving everything behind, she ran to her people and spoke words that Jesus used when calling his first disciples, “Come and see! Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! He cannot be the Messiah, can he?”

Jesus had reflected her inmost truth back to her. Unashamed she had a new vision of who she was. It was clear enough to her people too as their interest was piqued by her invitation—maybe they wanted to know their true selves too! Even if the Samaritans and Israelites were at odds, the Samaritan people did hope for the Taheb , a messiah who would come and reveal the truth (the description of the Taheb came from a blog post by Jennifer Garcia Bashaw on the Working Preacher website). After a few days with Jesus, these Samaritans believed Jesus was the Taheb. Jesus had bluntly said to the woman that, “I am he,” meaning I am the Messiah. She, and later her people, understood this such that they spoke a truth not heard elsewhere in John’s Gospel account, “This is truly the Savior of the world.”

In last week’s story, Nicodemus had heard about the Savior of the world—that God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but have everlasting life. And yet it wasn’t Nicodemus, but this unnamed evangelist who shared Good News about the Savior, so that part of the world would know this love. There at the well, this unnamed woman had realized what we prayed in today’s collect, “We have no power in ourselves to help ourselves.” She had no power to help herself, but acknowledging this truth changed her life. And, when we honestly behold this realization, everything changes for us too.

We like to tell ourselves things like: if I just get this project accomplished, then I will be okay. If I get the promotion, then everything will be alright. If I find the perfect partner, it’ll all be fine. If I get everything right, then people will love me. If I _____, then I will be fulfilled. We have no power in ourselves to help ourselves—three years after the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic I feel more strongly about that than ever—our collect is correct.

We can’t earn God’s grace. This is clearly reflected in how Jesus responded to the woman at the well. God loves us first. God doesn’t wait for us to get it right. Christ Jesus shines as the ultimate mirror—truly showing us who God made us to be. When he encountered the Samaritan woman, she could see who she truly was—not a woman with baggage, not a series of scandals, not just a descendent of Jacob, but a beloved child of the Divine filled with God’s spirit and truth and called to pique her people’s curiosity with God’s Good News. Christ makes our real selves known too!

Although we might have trouble looking into truthful mirrors, Christ reflects our deepest truth back to us in strangers, friends, family, beloveds, and in creation itself. In these reflections, we can see who we are. If we are brave enough to look, we will see our flawed, authentic selves. As difficult as it is to view these honest mirrors, do not look away. Seeing who we are can be difficult and painful, still this is how we live in Spirit and Truth drinking the living water.

Christ Jesus shows us who we are. It is not easy to see our true selves, for we crave to see only our good parts, as we think we have power to save ourselves. However, as he invited the Samaritan woman not just to see her past reflected in the living water, but also to drink anew and never thirst again, so he calls us to gulp deeply of new life. He knows our whole selves, even our flaws and foibles. And, before we recognize our faults, God knows them, loving us still and calling us into new life.

Truthful mirror at the well whose is it who’s beloved still? It’s you. You are God’s beloved one, and I pray we may reflect that truth to one another—not matter where you’re from, what you’ve done or not done, or who you are—you are God’s beloved. Reflect on that!

Present in Time

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 22:39:20 GMT

“Present in Time”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

March 5, 2023

The life of faith doesn't offer the ability go back or forward in time, but what it does offer is the gift of the present moment, the spirit of God, that is as close as your next breath.

Wear Camp Gear to Church

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:40:26 GMT

This Sunday, March 5th (11am service) , wear your camping gear to church! Why? As part of bringing awareness to all the ministries offered and commemorating the 100th year of camping at Camp McDowell, Catherine Poellnitz, Summer Camp Director, will be speaking at our 11am Service. So pull out those backpacks, boots and anything else you may have, and show your support for this wonderful program. Summer camp deadlines are already looming, so be sure to visit below to sign up.

With roots since 1923, these summer camp programs are one of the oldest in the country. Each summer camp session features a unique theme designed by a priest from the Diocese and program staff that provides daily, age-appropriate programs and activities that incorporate skits, songs, art, and a healthy dose of humor. These programs encourage learning through scripture, the traditional teachings of the church, and personal and contemporary issues with themes ranging from the environment to discipleship.

More about summer camps/programs at Camp McDowell

Adopting Expansive Language form of Eucharistic Prayer A for Lent

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 20:22:36 GMT

Over the past several General Conventions, the triennial governing body of The Episcopal Church, there have been resolutions passed that encourage trial usage of expansive language in our established Eucharistic Prayers. Expansive language differs slightly from inclusive language in that gendered pronouns are still utilized. However, no longer is this language for God exclusively masculine.

Based on feedback from the All Saints Worship Committee it has been decided to adopt the use of the expansive language form of Eucharistic Prayer A for the season of Lent. For some, this will be a long overdue and welcome change. For others, it may seem a bit awkward or odd. For others still, it will be difficult to understand why such a change is warranted. One thing that I have come to appreciate about All Saints is our willingness to lean into what I would describe as “traditioned innovation.” While it is clear that we cherish our traditions, we are also nimble enough to have an attitude of experimentation that helps us avoid becoming stagnant in our spirituality.

READ MORE HERE from The Rev. Brad Landry, All Saints' Rector.

READ PRAYER A HERE

Testing, Failing, and Welcoming

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 14:52:21 GMT

The Rev. Seth Olson

Testing, Failing, and Welcoming

February 26, 2023

Holy Trinity, One God, let my words be your words, and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am grateful and my family is grateful for paternity leave, which gifted me with precious time getting to welcome Lucia Rose Olson as she transitioned to this world.

While I was not working officially as a priest and instead as a parent, I gained some insights: parenting multiple children is harder than one child, stay-at-home parenting is no joke, and retailers can charge whatever they want when selling things related to babies—the same goes for weddings. I also remembered an idea I had previously had that will at first sound like an non sequitur: it would be helpful to have an average person competing against pro athletes, like at the Olympics. Wouldn’t that be useful to the spectator to see average Jane or average Joe competing against Patrick Mahomes, Alex Morgan, or Leonel Messi?

Well, today’s Gospel made me think of that last insight again. Could any of us withstand what Jesus weathered in the wilderness? While Jesus’ spiritual fortitude is actually not the point of this message, it’s remarkable what Jesus overcame in facing the tempter—fasting for forty days and nights, denying sustenance, not testing God’s love for him, and resisting worldly power and prestige. Wow! But, if Jesus’ spiritual accomplishments in overcoming temptations is not the point, then what is?

We’ll get to the point in a bit. First let’s take a step back. Last week in church we heard the story of the Transfiguration, and in that passage Peter, James, and John heard God speak from a cloud. What did God say? Our Parent God said almost exactly what was spoken when John baptized Jesus: this is my son, the Beloved with whom I am well pleased. Except up that high mountain was added, “Listen to him!”

Today we jump back to right after Jesus’ baptism. Here it is worth us heeding the holy cloud’s command to listen to Jesus so that we can discern why his overcoming temptations impacts our lives—other than us thinking Jesus sure is good at overcoming temptations.

When we listen to this text for today what do we hear? Jesus, the beloved, was lead into the wilderness—not on his own accord, but by the Spirit. And, before you think the wilderness means a pleasant, nature retreat pause, for in these days, wilderness was where chaos and hardship persisted. Jesus being Spirit-driven into challenge sounds different than prosperity-gospel-peddlers who promise ultimate blessings upon baptism. Jesus instead faced hardship after hardship once emerging from the Jordan.

While these challenges were all different, at the core of these temptations though was a single question: To what extent are you going to trust in God? Which brings us to the point of this passage, not just for Jesus, but for us too. Bidden or unbidden, God remains faithfully present in our lives—God’s love never stops, never ends, never faulters—and our beautifully challenging work is to receive that grace, then mimic God’s faithfulness and love despite what challenges we face, just like Jesus modeled for us.

Thankfully, it is not a competition, but rather a journey of cooperation. For, if I were placed alongside Jesus in an overcoming-temptation contest, it would show just how self-centered I am and how self-sufficient I try to be. I’m not alone though. Recently I read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe with Teddy, my five-year-old. Do you remember this story? In it, a character named Edmund faces very similar temptations to Jesus, and his failings informed me that I’m not alone in my ability to fail!

If it’s been awhile since you’ve read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, the tale takes place in England during the Second World War, for their safety four siblings (Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy) are shipped to the country to live with an eccentric professor. In the professor’s large estate, Lucy, then Edmund, then the others stumble into a magical world called Narnia via an old, stately wardrobe in the spare room. Many lessons can be exhumed from this classic story—about the mysterious nature of God; about how purity, valor, and truthfulness are virtues worth pursuing; and about God’s wild and fierce nature! Sadly, what I noticed upon this rereading of the story was that despite my protestations as a child, “I am a lot like Edmund,” (the angsty, bratty, and childish younger brother in the story)—I really am like him.

Edmund, like Jesus, faced temptations. Unlike Jesus, Edmund failed. Instead of the devil, he faced Jadis the White Witch who spellbound the whole of Narnia such that it was always winter but never Christmas—boo! Instead of bread, Edmund was offered Turkish delights—he took them. Instead of being almost thrown off the Temple, he did throw himself into the clutches of the witch—putting Aslan, the Christ character, to the test. Instead of power over all kingdoms, Edmund was wooed simply by power over his older brother Peter. Edmund failed and failed and failed again. As a child I may not have succumbed to the same temptations, but upon further reflection I acted like Edmund more than I cared to admit.

What I am starting to see now—with the gift of failures and hindsight—is that temptations come in many shapes, sizes, and disguises. Quite often, like Edmund, I fail and fail and fail again.

Don’t I often seek sustenance not from a stone-turned-bread, but from things that destroy the earth? This year’s All Saints-wide Lenten practice of Creation Care reminds me that all those plastics that wrap my foods, all the food I throw out, and all the resources I waste rob the planet and future generations of vitality and life. The Turkish delights caused less harm than this!

Also, don’t I put God to the test when I pray for and then expect specific outcomes? Even when it’s asking for good things for those in need, if I am not yearning for, thy will to be done, when these prayers do not come to fruition I am more weary to trust in God’s unwavering faithfulness and presence in my life!

Finally, don’t I want power and control, so things go my way? This yearning can be idolatrous, as I put myself in God’s place. Worship—as in what we give worth to in our lives—is not meant to be a self-centered exercise, rather it is meant to decentralize our egos, such that we become entuned with how we can best serve God through loving our neighbors as ourselves and as God wants. A byproduct of this temptation is that I place my happiness in the results and outcomes of life, instead of learning that whether in the valley of failure or on the mountaintop of victory my task is not the result, but to trust ever deeper in the Divine One who walks with me—who walks with all of us always.

If we listen to the beloved Son of God, what lay at the heart of Jesus’ challenges was a question: will you trust in God? Will you trust in God, even when you are hungry? Will you put the trustworthiness of God to the test when things go from challenging to life-threatening? Will you trust in God even if power and prestige and control are offered?

Jesus, fully divine and fully human, overcame all these challenges not simply by floating through them via some divine, easy button. He made it through this exhausting encounter by relying upon God. When offered bread, he relied on God’s Word. When the Devil misquoted Holy Scripture tempting Jesus to test God, Jesus relied upon his deep faith in the Father. When the tempter offered power and control over all the kingdoms of the world if Jesus would but worship the Devil, Jesus trusted in the God of not just worldly powers but infinite power.

So, if the point is that God is faithful and loving always, and Jesus models a faithful response in the face of temptation, what is the implication for us? To trust God. We might wonder how we trust in God. There are a multitude of ways to deepen our faith. I really like Brad’s suggestion—posted on Facebook—that one should ask a friend or beloved to prescribe not a vindictive but a helpful Lenten practice that will grow one’s trust in God. Still even when we mess up, even when we fall short, like an average person versus a pro athlete, even when we fail harder than Edmund in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, God remains faithful—continuing to trust us.

I want to offer a challenging prayer, which has helped me to deepen my trust in God, as I slowly relinquish temptations in this life. It’s called the “Welcoming Prayer” and it is attributed to the late, contemplative giant Father Thomas Keating. Let us pray.

Welcome, welcome, welcome. I welcome everything that comes to me today because I know it’s for my healing. I welcome all thoughts, feelings, emotions, persons, situations, and conditions. I let go of my desire for power and control. I let go of my desire for affection, esteem, approval, and pleasure. I let go of my desire for survival and security. I let go of my desire to change any situation, condition, person, or myself. I open to the love and presence of God and God’s healing action within. Amen.

Collects for Lent

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 04:04:41 GMT

You may remember that in previous years All Saints parishioners wrote reflections that were gathered into a devotional booklet for Lent. While we are not collecting reflections this year, we are producing a Lenten devotional guide of a different sort. This year’s guide is a collection of collects. A collect (pronounced CAH-lect) is a short liturgical prayer, typically once sentence long, that captures a certain theme or concept concerning our relationship to God. At least one collect can be found in every service in the Book of Common Prayer. A collect usually contains an invocation, a petition, and a conclusion. The invocation highlights one or more of God’s attributes. The petition asks for God’s aid in living out our faith, and the conclusion gives praise to God and is often Trinitarian in its language. If you would like to receive a daily "collect" email during Lent, fill out the form above.

The collects in this year’s Lenten devotional book are the creative work of our two Education for Ministry (EfM) groups at All Saints, which are led by mentors Bryson Waldo, Stephanie Diethelm, and Conrad Ponder!

Started in 1975 EfM is a long-running and highly regarded program of theological education for lay persons that originated at the School of Theology of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. The heart of this four-year program of study are the weekly group meetings, during which participants gather for reflection, shared learning, worship, and support. EfM participants prepare for service to God through in-depth study of the Old Testament, New Testament, church history, and theology. Each week the groups take part in a method of theological reflection and then work together to write a collect that sums up the insights from that reflection in the form of a prayer. We are pleased that the All Saints groups have graciously agreed to share their work with the rest of the congregation and the community. We’re also grateful to our Parish Coordinator Tara Portney, who lovingly compiled them in this devotional booklet, which we hope will draw you more deeply into God’s transforming love over the course of this Lenten season.

View All Collects

Spectacular Sundays

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 02:04:34 GMT

Not that every Sunday isn't spectacular at All Saints, but we do have a lot of wonderful things happening over the next six weeks. Please note the highlights of those below:

April 9

Easter

April 23

Creation Care Sunday: bike or walk to church

*More details to come

April 30

Bishop Glenda Curry Visit & Confirmation Sunday

*More details to come

May 7

-Youth Music Concert at 8:45am in the Nave

-Guest Preacher Becca Stephens at the 11am service

*More details to come

May 14

Youth Sunday

May 21

Senior Recognitions

Holy Hikes

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 16:22:14 GMT

This Saturday, March 5th , Holy Hikes Birmingham, a ministry of St. Stephen's Episcopal, is hosting a hike at the Shelby County Double Oak Park starting at 9:00am. All Saints' members, families, and friends are invited to take part in this 3 to 3.5 mile walk along a flat trail.

What are Holy Hikes? We learned from Allen Howell that "St Stephen's has sponsored Birmingham’s chapter of Holy Hikes, a national eco-ministry dedicated to creating opportunities to worship God together in the great outdoors. Following a prayer, participants progress through a service of Holy Eucharist as they walk the trails together, making stops along the way for hikers to catch up, read scripture, join a prayer, and reflect on their surroundings. A lay leader navigates the trails while a clergy person leads prayers and celebrates the Eucharist."

We hope you'll take the opportunity to worship God in the beauty of Birmingham's backyard at this month's holy hike or one in the months ahead. Get regular updates HERE .

Salt & Light

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 02:02:46 GMT

“Salt & Light”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

February 5, 2023

Jesus tells his disciples you are the salt of the earth. Imagine a well seasoned steak or salted popcorn or those cookie fix cookies that have just the right amount of salt on them for that perfectly sweet taste. The world needs your seasoning, and in a time that seems very hazy, Jesus reminds us we are the light of the world.. and the world needs your light. I have discovered that at All Saints we are not plain vanilla, our feasts are tasty and our light is bright, and for that I say thanks be to God.

Choirs Together

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 18:09:46 GMT

Please join the All Saints Adult Choir in worship at Independent Presbyterian Church this Sunday, February 5th at 4:00pm . Our choir will combine with three other Birmingham church choirs to offer A Festival Service with Choirs and Brass at the close of Independent Presbyterian Church's Religious Arts Festival (3100 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205). The service will feature anthems by American composer William Bradley Roberts who is also the guest conductor. For more information, VISIT HERE .

Primetime Saints Valentine's

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 18:18:09 GMT

Primetime Saints is having a "Love Your Technology", Valentine's celebration Tuesday, February 14th at 2:00pm! Join us to celebrate Valentine's Day while also getting information to help us learn to love our technology. Parish Coordinator Tara Portney will provide an overview of Realm, and Director of Communications Brian Wallace will provide helpful advice about technology in general. Oh, and of course, special Valentine's "treats"!

God's Foolishness

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 23:00:04 GMT

“God's Foolishness”

Sermon by The Rev. Kelley Hudlow

January 29, 2023

In a world that values the strong, the powerful and the outspoken, it's the foolishness of God that means that we as Christians must risk doing justice, offering kindness, and walking humbly with our God.

Divorce Recovery Group Valentine's

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 18:13:21 GMT

The All Saints Divorce Recovery Group will gather for a potluck supper at the home of Charlotte Ann Adams on Tuesday, February 14 at 6:30pm. Anyone who is divorced or going through a divorce is encouraged to attend.

To find out more or reserve your spot, please contact the Rev. Charles Youngson, cyoungson@allsaintsbhm.org or 205-879-8651 ext. 304.

All Saints Vision, Values, Goals

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 15:57:15 GMT

TONIGHT! All Saints will hold a workshop aimed at the vision, values and goals for our parish Wednesday, January 25, 2023 . Taco bar starts at 5:30pm and the workshop is starting at 6:00pm. We plan to identify and articulate our core values and formulate one, three and five year goals. Basically, who are we, what are we called to do and how do we do it!

We will also have Leslie Manning as our group facilitator helping us map out this plan. You can read more about her HERE .

*We welcome All Saints ministry stakeholders including Vestry and all ministry leaders.

Curious About Cursillo?

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 16:14:40 GMT

Have you heard about Cursillo and ever wondered what it is, what it offers? Or maybe you have never heard of this. Either way, bring your curiosity and questions during an evening of food and fellowship, Sunday, January 29th at 6:45pm! We will gather at the home of Barr & Cherry Wagstaff (600 Morris Boulevard, Homewood 35209). Food and drink will be provided but please bring any adult beverages you wish to consume.

Cursillo is an opportunity to grow in faith and in spirituality. Through Cursillo we seek a deeper understanding of the teachings of Jesus and how we can serve Him. Learn more HERE.

If you have any questions, contact Lee Handley ( handley2@gmail.com )

Trusting to Follow Jesus

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 00:11:04 GMT

“Trusting to Follow Jesus”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

January 22, 2023

It's not like Jesus is available in-person saying 'come and follow me', as if it is as simple as that. What we have in is one another. The body of Christ is here, and the call to come and follow me is discerned in a community.

Parishioner Physical Copy

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 17:11:37 GMT

Do you love that cup of coffee and a newspaper or maybe a magazine in your hands? Then we want to offer a physical copy of the "Parishioner" for you to enjoy as well! As we try to minimize costs associated with printing and postage for each copy, your willingness to "opt-in" allows us to be sure money and time is not wasted.

For those of you loving the digital format, we will be providing our digital Parishioner as normal sending it through our email list. So if you prefer the digital format, no need to ask for a physical copy.

If you would like to have the Parishioner mailed to your address , FILL OUT THIS FORM . If you ever want to "opt-out" of this or maybe someone you know wants to "opt-in", you will find this information any time on our Parishioner page .

What Are You Looking For?

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 02:02:14 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

2 ^nd Sunday after the Epiphany January 15, 2023

John 1:29-42

“What Are You Looking For?”

I grew up in the 80’s so it’s probably no surprise that I am a fan of the rock band U2. I even taught a Sunday school class about their music years ago here at All Saints because U2 loves to include biblical references and spiritual themes in their lyrics. For example, on one of U2’s early albums there’s a setting of today psalm simply titled “40,” which we used to sing in my Episcopal student group in college. But the song I’m thinking of this morning is a much more well-known rock anthem from U2’s iconic album The Joshua Tree. It’s called “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” The song is about that inner hunger we all experience, that sense that there is something missing in our lives. Author and Roman Catholic priest Ronald Rolheiser calls it the “holy longing.” We try our best to satisfy this holy longing with earthly pleasures and pursuits, but it remains. U2’s song addresses this longing with lyrics like these:

I have climbed highest mountains

I have run through the fields

Only to be with you

I have run

I have crawled

I have scaled these city walls

These city walls

Only to be with you

But I still haven't found what I'm looking for

“What are you looking for?” That’s what Jesus asks the two disciples in our Gospel lesson from the first chapter of John. A few verses later we learn that one of them is Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. They are disciples of John the Baptist who have listened to his testimony about Jesus and are curious. Who is this man of mystery? Because despite the fact that John says a lot about Jesus, it almost feels like he is speaking in code. In just those few verses, he calls him the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” “the one on whom the Spirit descends and remains,” and the “Son of God.”

We know from the Gospel of Luke that John the Baptist is Jesus’ cousin, but here he claims twice that he doesn’t know him. Maybe what he’s saying is that he didn’t really know him until this moment. Even though this Gospel doesn’t specifically mention that John baptizes Jesus, clearly John has a mystical insight when he sees the Spirit descend upon Jesus at his baptism. That experience convinces him that Jesus is the Son of God, the Chosen One, the true Passover lamb, who will free the world from its bondage to sin and death.

“What are you looking for?” Jesus asks. The disciples give an odd response. They answer his question with a question of their own, “Rabbi…where are you staying?” It helps to know something about the Greek here, because as he often does, John is using a bit of wordplay. The word translated “stay” here is the same word translated “remain” earlier in the passage and “abide” later in John. It means all those things: stay, remain, abide. Once again, there are two layers of meaning. Practically speaking, the disciples want to know where Jesus is staying so they can find him. But on a deeper level, they want to know where he abides, in the sense of who he is and what he’s about. It’s kind of like when we ask someone where they stand on an issue. It’s a question about his identity. But instead of giving them his business card, Jesus responds with an invitation: “Come and see.”

Jesus doesn’t say much about his identity in this section of John, but he allows others to give him a whole bunch of titles: Lamb of God, Son of God, Rabbi, Messiah, and later in the chapter Son of Joseph and King of Israel. Each of these titles tells us something about his identity, but each one also tells us something about what the disciples are looking for. Jesus neither confirms nor denies these titles at this point because he wants the disciples to go deeper than words. And so, he invites them to “come and see.”

After all, titles are labels, and labels have a way of ending the discussion and shutting down further exploration. We believe that once we’ve named someone, we’ve figured them out. “Oh, that’s John; he’s a doctor.” Or, “That’s Barbara; she’s the school principal.” Jesus allowed himself to be called by many titles as a way of inviting us further into the mystery of who he is. The titles we give to Jesus say as much about our identity as his. The titles have a lot to do with how we answer the question, “What are you looking for?” Because names and titles are also a powerful symbol of connection. Jesus invites us to name him, not so that we can solve a puzzle, but so that we can establish a relationship. The title is a doorway into the home where we can first come and see who’s inside, and then ultimately stay, remain, and abide with him.

Throughout my life I’ve always introduced myself as Charles, but I’ve been called Charlie, Chuck, Chucky, Chuckles, and Chaz. I can tell a lot about a person by what they choose to call me. And Jesus wasn’t opposed to giving out nicknames either. At the end of the passage, he renames Simon “Cephas,” an Aramaic word that means “Rock.” Throughout most of the New Testament, Simon is referred to by a form of “Rock” that comes from Greek, Peter. And we see Peter live up to his nickname in both positive and negative ways. He defends Jesus fiercely and also falls short in the moment of truth. He is a stand-in for everyone who would follow Jesus, a flawed man capable of greatness.

Humans are unlike other creatures in that we are conscious of our limitations all the time. We long to do great things, but we constantly run into physical, mental, and emotional limits. We only have so much time in a day and money in the bank. Our bodies age, get sick and tired, and eventually die.

We also experience limits in terms of sin. We rebel against God’s will seeking selfish and short-sighted goals that ultimately harm ourselves and others. The problem of sin goes far beyond an individual’s misdeeds. We’re caught in a spiderweb of sin that began before us and will continue beyond us. That’s why John the Baptist refers to the sin of the world not the sins.

The fact that we live in a world of limits is bound up with our sin. We fear there will not be enough, that we are not enough, that we won’t have the things we need to survive and be happy. And so, we keep looking for shortcuts to the good life. And we still haven’t found what we’re looking for.

But human beings are also unique in that we sense that there is something within us that is limitless, divine, and eternal, something we didn’t earn or create. It’s this mystery that enables us to believe that our true identity is not defined by our physical limits or our sin. Our true identity is somehow connected to the Source, the one we call God. It’s this connection that enables us to believe in the power of prayer, to believe miracles are possible, and most importantly to believe that God is with us even when everything else in the world seems to be against us.

So maybe if we really want to find what we’re looking for, we should first look within. That’s where we find Christ. The journey begins just as it did for those two disciples who decide to follow Jesus, to come and see where he was staying. He doesn’t demand blind faith or slavish allegiance. He invites us to come and see for ourselves so that we might believe and stay, remain, abide, and rest in his presence.

At the end of U2’s famous song, Bono sings

I believe in the Kingdom Come

Then all the colors will bleed into one

But yes I’m still running

A lot of times we assume the Christian journey is mostly about the future. Yes, we do believe that a time is coming when God will make all things right. Our future hope is what we honor during the season of Advent, which ended in our Christmas celebration a few weeks ago. But we can’t live in the future.

Bono then sings,

You broke the bonds

And you loosed the chains

Carried the cross

Of my shame

You know I believe it

Other times we assume the Christian journey is mostly about the past, what Jesus did 2000 years ago halfway across the world. And we do believe that what happened on Good Friday changed the world forever and opened the way of salvation. But we can’t live in the past either.

As important as the future and the past are in our tradition, the Christian faith is actually focused on meeting Jesus in the present. Christ is already here in our innermost being. If we were to ask Jesus, “Where are you staying now?” would he quote the Creed and tell us that he is seated at the right hand of the Father. Maybe, but I bet he would say that he dwells in our hearts guiding us, strengthening us to live powerfully within our limits. He is both at God’s right hand and as near as our breath. What good news it is that we don’t have to become perfect to find God. We would quickly fail if we tried. We can find what we’re looking for. We can find whom we’re looking for by looking within. We simply have to trust that God is at work through us, perfecting us through his grace-filled loved.

Spread the Love

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 20:40:39 GMT

"Spread the Love" all February, not just on the 14th! All Saints is having a peanut butter drive to benefit Grace Episcopal Church in Woodlawn all this month! Drop them any time in the basket in the Great Hall.

*Please note: 18 oz. jars were requested.

In Whom I Am Well Pleased

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 00:19:09 GMT

“In Whom I Am Well Pleased”

Sermon by The Rev. Brady Landry

January 8, 2023

No longer do I call you servants because the servants do not know what the master is doing, but I have called you friends because I have made known to you everything I have from the Father. What is it that Jesus has heard from the father? You are my daughters and my sons with whom God is well pleased.

A New Year

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 18:03:31 GMT

Dear friends,

Over the holiday break I took my kids to see the new blockbuster film Avatar: The Way of Water. This sequel, a compelling narrative on its own, is a continuation of the story of the original Avatar, which debuted in 2009. Good series are like that: able to stand on their own, yet enriched by having familiarity with the original.

Epiphany, and the Sundays that follow, could be seen in a similar light: Epiphany is the sequel to Christmas - Christmas continued, if you will. Epiphany, twelve days after Christmas Day, celebrates the arrival of the Magi, and the traditional name for this Principle Feast of the Church is The Manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles. This season is all about living out the implications of what we experienced at Christmas. God has appeared in human flesh; and you and I are now called to participate in his incarnation, of bearing Jesus into the world.

Immediately on the heels of Epiphany we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord, and the Sundays that follow focus on the calling of the disciples, the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, and the implications of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. The movement of God is always outwards, bringing into the fold those who have longed to hear the Good News. The story of Jesus is a continuation of the story of the people of Israel - a people whom God has blessed, in order that they might in turn be a blessing to all the world.

This week we will be celebrating Epiphany with a simple noonday Eucharist on Friday, January 6th. At this liturgy we will follow an ancient custom of blessing chalk , which can then be used to write the inscription of the wise men on the door of your home for an Epiphany house blessing. This chalk and the accompanying prayers will be available in the cloister hallway for the next several weeks (until we run out) for those who would like to observe this custom.

I have always viewed church as a type of “home base,” or charging station. A place to come and recall who I am in Christ. All of our worship and all of our programs are carefully crafted to be a source of strength for you to go out into the world and share the love of God. If you, like the Magi, are still looking for the Christ child; if you, like the disciples, are still longing for the Messiah; if you are looking to live out the implications of Christmas, come and be a part of our parish community this season of Epiphany.

Grace & peace,

Waking Down to the Divine Presence

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 17:39:50 GMT

Contemplative Outreach Birmingham, The Commission on Spirituality of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, and Metagem Institute will have “Waking Down to the Divine Presence”, Saturday, March 4, 2023, 9:00am – 3:00pm at St. Mary’s-On-The-Highlands Episcopal Church, Birmingham, AL. It will be led by The Rev. Mary Catherine Akamatsu

You’ve likely heard of spiritual awakenings, a waking up! What about a waking down? This waking down to the Divine Presence is another path or perhaps even the further path on the soul’s journey into God. Join us as we explore spiritual awakening in the concretized reality of everyday life. The 13th century Franciscan St. Bonaventure and the 19th century Carmelite St. Therese of Lisieux will be our spiritual guides. The day will be a mix of presentation, practice, and conversation.

If you are interested in being part of this event, register below.

Webelos Religious Badge

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 18:10:14 GMT

Do you have a Webelos Scout in 4th or 5th grade who is interested in earning the religious emblem? The Rev. Charles Youngson will be offering the “God and Family” program at All Saints on Sundays from 12:30pm-1:30pm in the church library for beginning Feb. 5th and continuing for 6-7 weeks. Lunch will be available each week.

To sign up or find out more, contact Charles, cyoungson@allsaintsbhm.org

The Miracle of Christmas

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 15:22:25 GMT

“The Miracle of Christmas”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

December 24, 2022

Waking Into God’s Dream

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 23:44:10 GMT

“Waking Into God’s Dream”

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

December 18, 2022

Emmanuel, God with us, let my words be your words, and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

“I can’t do it,” said the little voice. I looked down at the six-year-old boy beside me. The genuine perplexity with which he said, “I can’t do it,” made it just about impossible for me to be upset. Of course, it was only the first day of camp, and pretty quickly I learned that whatever I asked this child to do—put on shoes, get ready for the pool, make his bed, brush his teeth—whatever I asked, the reply was always the same: “I can’t do it.”

By Tuesday, my feeling that this little one was a cute child of God had melted into thinking that perhaps this was a Job situation, and I was being tested by God Almighty. Only 15 years-old, at the time, I did not have a firm grip on my emotions (do I now?). So, as the camper kept saying, “I can’t do it,” my patience wore thinner and thinner. To top it off, the entire cabin of twelve children had seemingly caught this “I can’t bug,” as they all joined in the negative chorus.

Kevin Denson was the other leader in my cabin. We had been campers together for a few years, so we had a good rapport with one another. As we sat down on Tuesday evening, he looked as tired as I felt. So, I asked him, “What should we do?” His response was as malicious as it was brilliant, “Maybe we could use a devotion.” Of course, I thought, “We could turn to the Word of God to force misbehaving children into shaping up.” I know, I am not proud of what I did, but desperate times call for desperate measures.

That very same night we turned to verses in Scripture to illustrate our point. God does not want us to respond by saying “No, I can’t,” rather we are to say I can. Philippians 4:13 reads, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” “For God all things are possible,” Mark’s Gospel account proclaims. We hammered home our message by saying, instead of telling us I can’t do it, say I can, for God helps us to do all things.

Really, even though we had bad intentions the message was a good one. And, perhaps it was our brilliant teaching, but more likely it was that by Tuesday all the campers were exhausted. Hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, swimming, games, and singing—it all wore the campers out such that they fell fast asleep. At least, for a while.

What you may not know about the camp where I grew up is that the bathrooms are a short walk from the cabins. To teenage me that was nothing, but to a six-year-old in the middle of the night it must have felt like a lengthy trek. Now, sometime around two o’clock in the morning, the boy who had started the, “I can’t do it” movement came and knocked on my door. Half awake, I sat up in my bed. “Buddy, what do you need? It’s really late.” He responded, “I can. I can go to the bathroom.” By which, he really meant I can’t go to the bathroom, at least not without a leader. I got a little teary-eyed as I found my bathhouse sandals. This sweet little child of God had tried his best to understand our message. He tried to stay positive and to say, “Yes, I can with God’s help,” even if he could not.

So often we think of Advent as Mary’s season of “yes,” but today’s Gospel lesson depicts Joseph as a profound model of “I can do this” with God’s help. Joseph, does not get a lot of publicity, but he is a model of faith, an example of trust, and a righteous man, or at least he becomes one with God’s help! Yet digging deeper reveals that this story is not just about Joseph affirming God’s call, it is about us—you and me, this community—taking part in God’s YES! So, let’s take a look closer.

In those days, betrothal, like that between Mary and Joseph, was a legal and binding contract made between the elders of families. Mary and Joseph may not have had much say in this process. Then, when Joseph discovered Mary was with child, he would have been right within the law, according to the book of Deuteronomy (22:23-27), not only to dismiss his betrothed quietly, but also to put her to death, as she had broken the contract. This is an instance of what is legal, what is ethical or Godly being worlds apart! Yet, Joseph planned to say, “I can’t do it,” in a respectful manner. Then, everything changed.

“Just when Joseph resolved to [dismiss Mary quietly], an angel of the Lord appeared to him.” At the start of the dream, the angel identified Joseph, as the Son of David, which put some historical perspective around this. This correct identification also meant that God knew exactly who Joseph was. God intervened into Joseph’s life to invite this Son of David into something different.

The beginning of Matthew’s Gospel account reads like a beta version of Ancestry.com, which is amusing, except that so many of the members of David’s line did not adhere to the way of God—did any of them? Even David didn’t. There were troubling women in Jesus’ ancestry primarily because there were unfaithful men in his lineage. Bathsheba’s wrong doing was because of David’s own, Tamar’s was a result of Judah’s, and Joseph could have added to that, but he did not.

If you know anything about generational trauma this tiny step is huge. Joseph stopped a cycle. Do we hope for something more from Jesus’ earthly father? Of course! Still to dismiss Mary quietly was a start, or more correctly stated, it was an opening that God utilized.

In this opening, the angel first invited Joseph to live without fear. Yes, it’s easier said than done. And yet, without fear Joseph could then hear the messenger say that this child was not ill-conceived but conceived by the Holy Spirit. God’s Spirit came to bear life in Mary in this unique way. Once his trepidation waned, Joseph could hear God’s good news—that this child within his betrothed was holy.

As the dream continued, Joseph learned that he was to name this child Jesus. While this was nothing novel in Jewish history, as Ishmael, Isaac, Solomon, and Josiah all had their names revealed to their family in dreams, God was doing something new here! The angel indicated what was meant by this name.

Jesus, or Joshua in Hebrew, means Savior. He would save his people from their sins. The child within Mary would wipe away the disconnection, the wrong, and the hurt that kept people from God, from each other, and from their truest selves. This was good news in a good dream, but we cannot live merely in dreams.

Perhaps the most unremarkable bit of this passage is that Joseph woke up. However, he did more than simply opening his eyes. In Advent, we sing songs like, “Sleepers Wake,”—“When we hear the heralds singing, and in our hearts new joy is springing; we wake, and rise up from our gloom; for our Friend comes down all-glorious.”This sounds like Joseph who woke up to see not a dream but God’s truth. With God’s help, Joseph made the impossible dream come true! The “I can’t do it” in the nighttime turned into the “I can” of the morning. You might be saying, “Okay, so why is all of this important to me?” or “This is all so crazy, why did it happen this way?” Could God have come into this world in another way? Certainly! Who are we to limit the Creator of the Universe? Matthew though, added a prophecy to help interpret this passage.

Isaiah, the prophet, foretold of this miraculous birth. Yes, Joseph was to name him Jesus, but the child would grow into Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” The reality that Joseph awakened into was God is with us! The God of all Creation came to be with us! At the end of Matthew’s Gospel account, Jesus reiterated this truth saying, “I will be with you always, even to the end of the ages.” God comes to be with us—in Creation, in stillness, in relationship, in song, in Scripture, in worship, in dreams, but in the person of Jesus, God shows us the fullness of what it means for God to dwell with us. In response, we are called to be like Joseph, and maybe that sounds like a low bar.

However, Joseph could have said no to this dream. Joseph could have dismissed Mary. Joseph could have even had Mary put to death. Yet, he listened not to his ancestry, but to the messenger of God. We too are asked to be open to what God is calling us to do and who God is calling us to be. Joseph said I can do this with your help, God. The way in which God responded was by coming to be with Mary and Joseph. We too are invited with each other’s help, with God’s help to heal generational wounds, to dream with the Spirit, and to awaken, so that we might make God’s dream a reality!

Advent is a season of Mary’s yes, and it is a season of Joseph’s yes. This means it’s a season of YES AND! It’s a time for healing AND for dreaming. It’s a chance for us to wake up AND make the dream come true. It’s a season of bearing Christ AND being with those who do! This Advent, I wonder, how is God transforming your “I can’t do it” into “I can with God’s help”? I wonder, what is God’s dream for you, for All Saints, and for this community? I wonder, in what ways are you awakening to the truth of Emmanuel? As we move ever closer to the Season of the Incarnation remember that God is with us then, now, and even unto the end of the ages.

Welcome Grace Turner

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:57:59 GMT

All Saints is welcoming Grace Turner as our new Assistant Youth Director! She is a graduate of Samford University and has been been involved in our diocese since she was a youth. She loves spending summers at Camp McDowell and in Sawyerville. Grace officially joins us in January!

Growing Up in God's Kingdom

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 19:35:43 GMT

“Growing Up in God's Kingdom”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

December 4, 2022

How do you want to grow into God's kingdom? As you and I reflect on this question and live into that way of being, we will be living into the apostles prayer that the God of all hope with fill us with the joy of this peaceable kingdom.

Community Kitchen

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 20:45:09 GMT

Looking for an opportunity to serve? Join us Saturday, December 3rd, from 10:00am - 1:30pm at Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church in Southside Birmingham for Community Kitchens. This organization follows Jesus' commandment to feed those in need by providing meals to anyone and everyone who comes through the doors hungry. Please contact Vic Adamo ( vtadamo@gmail.com ) for more information or to sign up.

Seifert Ceremony

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 15:25:34 GMT

On Sunday, December 4th at 9:30am there will be a brief ceremony in the cloister hallway to dedicate a plaque in honor of The Rev. Marshall Seifert (All Saints’ rector, 1943-1960). Milner Seifert, Marshall’s son, will be our special guest as we give thanks for his father's ministry during a significant time of growth in the life of our parish. Bryson Waldo will share a brief history of what was previously called Seifert House, and the importance of this period of history at All Saints.

Back to the Future

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 23:05:46 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

1 Advent, Year A November 27, 2022

Matthew 24:36-44

“Back to the Future”

A couple of Saturdays ago, I had my son Charlie drive us to Lowes so that he could get in some more driving practice and I could get a few things for the house. We pulled into a parking place right next to a DeLorean, the stainless steel sportscar from the 80’s made famous by the movie Back to the Future. The owner was getting into the car, so I had to ask him about it, mainly how he’s kept it running all these years.

If the season of Advent had a subtitle, it would be “back to the future.” That’s because Advent is the season to prepare for something that has already happened—the birth of Christ. And it’s the season to prepare for something that has yet to happen—the coming of Christ at the end of time. Christians live between these two arrivals, these two advents. We live between the time of Christ’s first coming at Christmas and his coming again to reconcile all things. And Jesus instructs us on how to live between the times. He tells us to “Keep awake.”

At some point most of us have had to stay awake when we really wanted to go to sleep. Maybe you had to work late into the night for your job or stay up to soothe a crying infant. Maybe as a student you pulled an all-nighter to study for an exam or finish a paper by the next morning.

I certainly pulled a few of those in college. And it was usually around this time of year as the semester ended for Christmas break. The all-nighter that most readily comes to mind involved a music history class where I had both a final exam and a term paper due on the same day. And of course, I had barely started working on either. Desperate times call for desperate measures. So about 10:00 that night I took a No Doze caffeine pill. “Safe as coffee,” the box said. Well, it certainly kept me awake. The problem was I had so much nervous energy I couldn’t focus on the task at hand. I did finally get the paper finished and a bit of studying done. I crawled into bed around 5:00 but was still too wired to get any quality sleep. The exam and the paper turned out okay, due mostly to the kindness of the professor rather than the quality of the work.

Staying awake all night is not a pleasant experience. After that, I got much better at working ahead. And once college was done, I swore off all-nighters altogether. I actually managed to do four years of youth ministry as a lay person then as a priest without ever doing a lock-in. Those poor, deprived kids! I sent them off to college without proper all-nighter training!

I’m pretty sure that when Jesus and later the apostle Paul urged the people to “keep awake,” they didn’t have in mind cramming for a final exam. For one thing, Jesus makes it clear that no one, not even he, knows when the day of judgment is coming. The Day of the Lord will be more like a pop quiz than a final exam. How do you prepare for a pop quiz? You have to study a little bit each day.

As my all-nighter experience taught me, it’s not enough to simply stay awake physically. What is most needed is mental focus. And that seems to be what is truly lacking in our time. As we come out of the pandemic into this new normal, we seem even more distracted than before. Our minds are certainly full, but we are anything but mindful. Most of us don’t have trouble staying awake. If anything, we have trouble falling asleep. Instead, we struggle to be unhurried, calm, and focused on the things that really matter. And our media-saturated, consumer culture aims to keep us that way.

When we are not fully present to ourselves, to others, and to God, we are like houses where no one lives. It’s hard to insure a house that is left unoccupied because all kinds of bad things can happen. Burglars can break in and steal. Vermin of various sorts show up. The house itself begins to deteriorate.

When we go through life spiritually absent, we are like the vacant house down the street. We are vulnerable to break-ins of all sorts. When we are tired, stressed, or angry, that can become just the open window the bad guy needs to break in. That break-in often takes the form of an illness of body, mind, heart, or spirit.

But when the light is on and somebody’s home, the bad guy tends to go somewhere else. When we are calm and centered, alert and present to this moment, then we are like a warm, well-lit home on a cold, stormy night. We become a place of refuge for those in need. And if it’s one thing our distracted world needs, it’s more people to shelter those battered by the storms of modern life.

When Jesus says “Keep awake” to people of our time, he’s actually inviting us to be present here and now, present to what this moment is teaching us. There are a lot of words for this state. Some call it “consciousness” or “mindfulness.” In sports terminology, they call it “flow.” The athlete’s hours of tedious practices and drills make possible those moments of flow during the competition.

When you think about it, the purpose of prayer and other spiritual disciplines is to bring us into a state of openness to the presence of God. When we are open to God’s presence, we find the ability to act in ways that are loving toward ourselves and others. Essentially, it’s about laying aside our pride and self-seeking so that God can be revealed through us.

There’s an old saying, “When the student is ready the teacher will appear.” What this means is that the problem is not a lack of good teachers, but a lack of minds ready to learn. We don’t know when Jesus is coming to us for the last time. But then again, maybe we don’t need to know. The reality is our teacher is always ready to come to us and teach us what we need to know for this moment. Yes, there are plenty of Christians who comb through the Bible looking for a verse here or there to tell them how it’s all going to go down. But the life of faith is about learning to live without certainty, without having all the answers. We don’t know when Jesus is coming. We can’t cram for this final exam. So, we must be present now. We must be conscious of God’s presence within us and around us. When we are ready, the master will appear and lead us into all truth.

And so, even though the Gospel reading this morning is about the future, its implications are for the present. In Advent we go back to the future by remaining centered in the present. For the present moment is all we really have. And yet our great hope is that there is more to the present moment than the circumstance we find ourselves in. There is more to the present moment than whatever problem we are currently dealing with, whether that is a big problem like a serious illness, or a smaller problem, like getting the toaster fixed. Christians are people of hope and Advent is the season of hope.

While there is definitely a sense of urgency to the task of keeping awake, we need not be afraid. For the Christ who will come again to be our judge is the same Christ who is our friend and brother. His judgment is not like the judgment we experience daily from people in the world. His judgment is more like the friend who gives us insight into ourselves that we never saw before. It is like the kind teacher who shows us where we went wrong so that we can learn from our mistakes. Admittedly, the Bible paints the last judgment in more alarming images: a thief in the night, a person snatched away while working at the mill. These images are meant to help us to focus on the urgency of the acting now and not putting off the things that are most important.

It’s human nature to put off what is difficult. It’s human nature to wait until the last minute to finish that paper or study for that exam. But when it comes to living the life God intends for us, we can’t cram for the exam at the last minute. We can’t pull an all-nighter to get the final paper done. The Christian life has to be lived one day at a time, sometimes one moment at a time. For every moment is full of opportunities to experience God’s love and share that love with others. Every moment is pregnant with meaning and pregnant with possibility. So let us not put off becoming the people God is calling us to be. Let us not miss the present moment because we are rehearsing some moment in the future or rehashing some moment from the past. Let us live fully now by preparing for Christ to come.

God's Will Be Done

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 20:58:02 GMT

"God’s Will Be Done”

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

November 20, 2022

You and I, we are ambassadors of what this world can look like transformed by Gods resurrection. You and I will continue to pray for the kingdom to come, and Gods will to be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Bring A Towel & Wear PJs to Church

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 16:14:33 GMT

Bring a towel & wear your pj's to church, Sunday, December 11th! The Community Furniture Bank is in desperate need of towels for individuals and families. While it would not be appropriate for anyone to show up to church in just a towel, as a way of showing our support for this donation effort, all are invited to wear appropriate pajamas to church on that Sunday. Please either purchase a towel and bring it to All Saints or order one and ship it directly to:

Community Furniture Bank

219 Distribution Drive

Birmingham, AL 35209

Movement of God's People

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 20:30:29 GMT

"Movement of God's People"

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

November 13, 2022

Holy God, Enduring One, the Alpha and the Omega, let my words be your words, and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

This week I had the absolute gift of attending some continuing education. This retreat—Discerning Leadership for Redeveloping Congregations—is put on by the Episcopal Church for those wondering about how the Spirit might be moving to build vibrant communities, especially beyond Covid-tide. I am grateful that my colleagues, this parish, and my family supported me in attending to this important work. I consider this work holy—sacred to this community and to the larger diocesan community where I serve as the chair of the Department of Parish Development and Evangelism. I share this with you because this retreat adjusted my lens of viewing this Gospel lesson for today.

I will get to Jesus’ prognosticating about the toppling of the temple in a moment, but first, I’m wondering, have you seen Lorna Davis’ TED Talk ? She is a businesswoman who has worked as CEO of companies across the world. In her message called, “A Guide to Collaborative Leadership,” she describes the typical way of going about leading in Western society. Someone well dressed—maybe in a power suit of some sort—gets up and sells everyone within a company or a community on their vision. There’s some clapping afterward, and initial excitement. Everyone buys into the vision for a bit. However, rarely, does the entire community get on board.

Davis described a scenario when she was leading the Chinese arm of Craft Foods. All the meetings were in English, even though that was very few team-member’s native tongue. They all went along with the vision of Davis, but their product launches were largely unsuccessful. Then, a shift occurred. Davis shifted the language of the meetings to Chinese and invited every team member to share their opinion. The results were markedly different—and if you are a fan of Green Tea flavored Oreos, you can thank these meetings for their origination.

In this example, we can see an important shift away from the heroism of selling people on a vision and towards wondering, what can we do together? What might emerge if we listen to one another—to the larger community? Where might we go together? Which brings me back to the Temple.

When those with Jesus entered the Temple, it was a sight to behold. Luke really doesn’t do it justice. Herod the Great had sparred no expense! White marble adorned parts of the inner temple—up to sixty-seven feet long. Blue, scarlet, and purple Babylonian tapestries draped the entrance to the holy of holies. Gold- and silver-plated gates guarded the way into the Temple. [1] It was very nice! This project was important to the worship of the Jewish people; however, it was the pet project of those who were in power—politically, culturally, and religiously. Thus, even though there were many who were starving at those gold-plated gates, this was the work that the heroes sold as the most important thing the community could do.

Those with Jesus took note of how beautiful this Temple was, but the teacher saw beyond the silver and marble. He knew that soon enough even this important and beautiful place would not be standing—it would be destroyed such that not a stone would be left upon another.

Jesus was immediately quizzed by those around him, not if this would happen, but when and how they would know it was happening. First, Jesus warned against following those who claimed to know the timing of the impending destruction. Then, he pointed to horrific events—wars, famine, natural disaster—things that we do not have to look too far to see in our own world. But, the more pressing apocalyptic indicator was when persecutions would happen for following in the way of Jesus. The followers of this way would even face opposition from family and friends. Some would even taste death because of this affiliation.

These words are hard to hear. Not only because the stories of martyrs in ages past and present break our heart, but also because we may start to wonder, Jesus when you spoke about holy walls toppling, were you talking about our beloved churches too? The hymn “All My Hope On God Is Founded” possesses one of the most poignant stanzas in any of our hymnody, “Mortal pride and earthly glory, sword and crown betray our trust; though with care and toil we build them, tower and temple fall to dust. But God's power, hour by hour, is my temple and my tower.” (The Hymnal 1982, Hymn 665) God, forbid that here. This place is holy. Soaked with the prayers of almost seventy-five years. I’ve shed tears here. I’ve filmed silly videos—like the cassock challenge—right over there. The beloved soul about to join my family—I hope she’ll be baptized in that gorgeous font. I do not want anything to happen to this beloved space. However, the pandemic taught us that the church—the Community of All Saints—is not a building—it’s a people. It never has been just a building—it’s not now—it never will be. The church left the building during the Pandemic, and while that scares many of us (including me), that is a good thing—a very good thing.

What happens in here each week is food for the journey. It’s practicing the way the world could be. We process in, we pray, we sing God’s praise, we hear God’s Word, we ask and receive forgiveness, we are fed as the Body of Christ with the Body of Christ, then we process out into the world. That last piece is important. You may not think about it, but when you walk out, you are part of the procession. You are going out in peace to love and serve the Lord.

The going out is of utmost importance. You are going as a beloved member of this community to serve all those other communities to which you belong—your school, your offices, your civic organizations; your family, your friends, your neighborhood; your trivia team, your R/C flying squad, your running group… your people. However, you are not going out to be a hero. You are going to be a part of those communities, as leaven to help others rise, as light to illuminate all that God is already doing, as love that binds us one to another.

Sometimes when we process out into the problems of this world, we might falsely believe that together we are not enough. We might mistakenly think that we do not collectively have enough. We might even buy into the half-truth that it’s too difficult to find any good news. None of this is true when we realize we have each other. May we be reminded of what is true, as said so succinctly in the last line from Wendell Berry’s poem “The Wild Geese,” What we need is here.

What we need is here—within the communities to which we already belong, what we need is here!

What we need is here. May we see that truth in this community of All Saints, the communities to which we belong, and in the beloved community of God. Because it’s not the size of the steeple, but the movement of God’s people.

Parents Day Out

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 20:39:52 GMT

Hey Parents! Need to get things done without the kiddos? The Youth Groups of St. Stephens and All Saints are holding a fundraiser for their Ski Trip in January by hosting a "Parents Day Out" Saturday, December 17th from 9am-3pm at St. Stephens Episcopal Church! This is open to kids from kindergarten through 6th grade and is $50 per child.

Questions? Contact Crandall, chillhouse@allsaintsbhm.org

A Thrilling Ride

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 19:48:50 GMT

"A Thrilling Ride"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

November 6, 2022

On this All Saints day, we remember those that have gone before us, the legendary and little ones, that were lights of Christ in their own generations. Together they compose the communion of saints that intercede and give us a tangible hope, that with God, all things are possible. So my friends, surfs up. There is a wave waiting for you.

Seth is on Maternity Leave

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 19:23:37 GMT

A baby has been born! As you may or may not know, The Rev. Seth Olson and his wife Kim welcomed baby Lucia (Lucy) on Dec. 26, 2022! They are healthy and at home. Here’s a link to a Meal Train for them if you’d like to help.

*Seth is on maternity leave until February 8th.

Come Down from the Tree

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 18:23:07 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

21 ^st Sunday after Pentecost, October 30, 2022

Proper 26, Year C: Luke 19:1-10

“Come Down from the Tree”

Many of you know the Busbee family at All Saints. Kathleen is our Director of Children’s Formation, and her husband Brad and their four children are involved in a variety of ways at church, too. With his permission, I want to share a story about their youngest Elias, who is nine years old. Now, despite having two parents and three older sisters to watch out for him, Elias remains adventurous and independent.

As an example, one day when he was around five years old, his father took him to work at Samford, where Brad teaches. Elias was supposed to be reading a book or playing soccer with his sister while Brad did some work in his office, which was on the second floor of the building. As Brad is working as his desk, he looks out window and notices that the magnolia tree was swaying back and forth. He thinks, “That’s odd. It’s not a particularly windy day.” Then he notices a small crowd gathering under the tree and looking up. And that’s when he sees his son Elias at the top of the tree waving at him. The only problem is, Elias doesn’t know how to get down, and he’s starting to get scared. Brad, still in his suit from teaching earlier that day, heads outside and begins to coax Elias out of the tree. But soothing words aren’t enough, and Brad realizes the only way Elias is going to come down is if he climbs the tree himself and brings Elias down with him. And that’s what he does.

I can relate to this story because I was very much like Elias at that age. I loved to climb the big magnolia tree in our back yard at our house on Sherwood Drive in Tuscaloosa. The best part was scaring my elderly neighbor half to death when I would call out to him from high above. I assume he forgave me because when we moved away, he gave me his collection of pennies and nickels going back to the 1940’s, which I still have and update every few years.

There’s something about little boys and climbing trees. And though I can’t speak from experience since I don’t have sisters or daughters, I assume a lot of girls like climbing trees, too. When you’re little, climbing a tree makes you feel big and strong. Maybe it’s the element of danger combined with the sense of safety you feel being high above the earth and hidden within the branches. Maybe it’s the fact that climbing trees is a skill that kids can do better than adults. Or maybe it’s just some primitive connection to our primate ancestors. And here in the South every tree climber knows that magnolia trees are the best because they grow lots of sturdy branches low to the ground. You can hide among their leaves year-round. And they smell so great. To me, magnolias smell like home and childhood.

Children love the story of Zacchaeus because they can relate to being small and unable to see over the grownups. And they can relate to climbing trees to get a better view. Years ago I had the chance to visit the Holy Land with a group of clergy from various denominations. And we went Zacchaeus’ hometown, the ancient city of Jericho. Jericho is an oasis in the Judean desert, which the book of Deuteronomy calls the city of palm trees. And there are a lot of palm trees there, but to this day you’ll find a sycamore tree in the middle of town, the same one that Zacchaeus climbed. Ok, sycamores don’t typically live 2000 years, but maybe it was the great, great, great, grandchild of the one Zacchaeus climbed the day that Jesus came to town. Not only did this distinguished group of pastors and seminary professors read from the Gospel of Luke in the shade of the famous sycamore, we also sang the song: “Zacchaeus was a wee little man and a wee little man was he.”

That day in Jericho our tour guide shared something interesting with us. He said that it’s no accident that Luke included the fact that it was a sycamore tree in telling the story. Normally, he said, if a person back then was going to climb a tree for a better view, they would shimmy up one of the many palm trees in the area. So why did Zacchaeus climb a sycamore? Because he could hide there. If you’re hanging on to a palm tree, everyone can see you. But in a sycamore tree he could remain camouflaged.

And why did Zacchaeus want to hide? Well, that’s because he wasn’t well-like in Jericho, to put it nicely. As you may know tax collectors—and Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector—were seen as traitors because they took money from their fellow Jews to fund the occupying Roman Empire. Since they were paid a cut of what they collected, there was plenty of incentive for fraud. Luke tells us Zacchaeus was rich, and we’re left to assume his wealth came from exploiting his own people. That’s backed up by what he says when Jesus calls him down from the tree. Our translation renders it, “if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.” But the Greek is present tense and can also mean something like, “if I defraud anyone, I always pay them back fourfold.”

How you translate the verbs in this sentence determines how we look at Zacchaeus. Was he in the habit of giving back anytime he was accused of fraud, or did the encounter with Jesus inspire him to repent of his ways? Was Zacchaeus in the wrong for defrauding the people, or was the community in the wrong for ostracizing Zacchaeus unfairly? This is why they say the translation is the first interpretation.

But at the end of the day the traditional interpretation and the one most scholars agree with is that Zacchaeus makes a decision to change because of the encounter with Jesus. Not only will he stop using his position to defraud others, but he will also make restitution according to the most stringent standard in the Old Testament. Something about that encounter with Jesus changes him, which is why Jesus then says “Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek out and save the lost.”

I believe the order events is key to interpreting this passage. Clearly Zacchaeus was drawn to Jesus. Maybe it was mere curiosity about this famous rabbi. Or did he sense Jesus could restore what was broken within him? Whatever the reason Zacchaeus takes the first step. He shows up and puts forth the additional effort of getting past the crowd and up that tree. He literally goes out on a limb to see Jesus. But he’s still afraid. And so, he hides in the tree at a safe distance. But Jesus doesn’t let Zacchaeus remain a passive onlooker. He seeks Zacchaeus out, call him by name, commands him to come down out of hiding, and then declares in front of everyone that he will stay at his home. That changes everything for this sheep who had wandered from the fold. It's clear to me that Jesus’ acceptance motivates him to repent.

The kid in us may love Zacchaeus for his small size and love of climbing trees, but the adult in us can love Zacchaeus because we see ourselves in him. We, too, often feel like we don’t belong or aren’t worthy of being accepted because of how we look, what we do for a living, or the bad decisions we’ve made. At times we, too, feel isolated and cut off from our community. We long to be restored to wholeness, and we are curious about this Jesus fellow. Does he really offer us the power to change and be healed? But we’re also unsure. We are drawn to him but afraid to get too close. What if he really does change me? Will I be ready? What if he asks me to let go of something that has been a false source of security for a long time? And so we hide ourselves in a tree at a safe distance. But if we are willing to take that first step, if we are willing to show up, Jesus will go the rest of the way. Though we might be content to remain passive onlookers, Jesus comes to us, call us by name, and accepts us where we are. He offers to come to our house without demanding that we get our house in order first.

What a difference from the way the world works! The world demands that we behave before we can belong. We see that illustrated in the passage today. Notice how the envious crowd grumbles and wonders why a man like Jesus would single out a man like Zacchaeus for this special honor. In their minds, it’s the fine, upstanding members of society like themselves who deserve to have Jesus stay at their homes. But throughout the Gospels we hear Jesus say things like, “Those who are well have no need of a doctor,” and “I have come to save not the righteous, but sinners.”

Jesus sets aside the system of rewards and punishments for an ethic of finding the lost, healing the sick, and saving the sinner. Such good news inspires us to live better, not out of fear of punishment or hope of reward, but out of a desire to be in partnership with Jesus in his work of reconciliation. And that’s ultimately what the Zacchaeus story is about: reconciliation. Through his encounter with Christ he is restored to unity with God and with his neighbors. This small man is inspired to do great deeds. The story of Zacchaeus reminds us that the true measure of a man is not his stature, but his generosity, his willingness to admit to wrongdoing, and to make restitution. The world tells us to keep climbing, to keep elevating ourselves above the crowd. But if we truly want to meet Jesus, then we’ve got to come down to earth.

All Saints Day

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:04:31 GMT

We will have an All Saints Day Eucharist service, Tuesday November 1st at Noon . This is a day to reconnect with all of the saints who have gone before us, to be inspired by their lives and to recommit ourselves to the work of doing the will of God on Earth.

It is one of the principal feasts of the Episcopal Church, when the church remembers the saints, known and unknown. It is also one of the four holy days denoted as especially appropriate for baptisms. (The others are the First Sunday after Epiphany, the Easter Vigil, and Pentecost.)

The origins of All Saints' Day aren’t completely clear. A feast for all martyrs was observed as early as the fourth century on May 13. And Pope Gregory III dedicated a chapel in Rome to all saints on November 1, while Pope Gregory IV officially declared its general observance in 837.

In medieval England this feast was known as All Hallows (hallow was an old English term for saint), and the day before was All Hallows' Eve, or Halloween.

Socktober

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 17:32:01 GMT

Socktober isn't over! We will be collecting socks to donate to Youth Serve in Birmingham until 10/31. Youth Serve distributes to partner agencies that give the socks to people experiencing homelessness. The basket is right inside the front door.

Primetime Saints Christmas

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 17:55:02 GMT

PrimeTime Saints will hold a Pre-Holiday Luncheon on Thursday, November 17th at Noon in the Great Hall. We hope you will join us as we share a meal and hear from heads of our Outreach Programs including Angel Tree, Sawyerville Christmas Gift Project, Grace Food Pantry and Sawyerville Youth Christmas.

We will provide main course but ask you bring a side dish that will feed 4 to 6 or a dessert. We will also be collecting the following items that are desperately needed at Grace Food Pantry: 12-16 Oz CREAMY peanut butter, 15 oz tomato sauce, 15 oz canned fruit.

Please RSVP to Ron and Ginny May @ 205-870-8197 by November 9th.

Saul the Pharisee, Paul the Apostle

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 15:06:45 GMT

"Saul the Pharisee, Paul the Apostle"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 23, 2022

This might come as a surprise to some of you, but I have not always been known by my current name.

Allow me to explain: Before I was Paul the Apostle, I was known as Saul of Tarsus.

A lot has changed since then.

The story that Jesus told about the arrogant, boastful Pharisee? Yeah, that could have been me.

You see, I was a Pharisee, and a damn good one (if I say so myself).

My teacher was the famous scholar - Gamaliel. I guess you could say I went to the Harvard of my day. I was ambitious, I was zealous, I was eager to get ahead in the world.

But so very much has changed since then.

It’s been, gosh, thirty years(?) since I was knocked off my high horse on the way to Damascus and blinded by that gracious light.

I am an old man now, and my journey has brought me here to this dank, dark prison in Rome. My eyesight may be failing, but I can read the writing on the walls…the time of my departure has come.

(Shiver) It’s much colder here than in Jerusalem. You may have skipped over this portion of my letter today, but that’s why I asked Timothy to bring me my cloak.

That Pharisee Jesus speaks of…he was so close, yet so very far off, was he not? He had all the externals down pat: he went to church, he fasted and prayed, he gave a tenth of his income (there’s a bit for you to remember this time of year!) Jesus isn’t telling us not to do these things, he is telling us why we do these things matter.

I used to think I had somehow impressed God by being better than others. While I may not have exactly blurted it out loud, that doesn’t mean that I didn’t think that way.

“O God, thank you that I’m not like…” (and you fill in the blank of who we want to shame today).

All of my efforts were focused on how I stacked up against the competition. And let me tell you, there is no joy when caught in constant comparison.

In truth, the joy, the meaning, the real kind of life I had been longing for was not something I discovered all on my own.

You may have heard of my little mid-life crisis on the road to Damascus. I had been going about my ambitious business, snuffing out heresy and doing what I though was best to keep the faith.

And then that light, that stunning, spectacular, sacred light showed me my blindness.

“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” I heard a voice say.

“Wait, what? Who are you!?” I stammered.

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”

My companions didn’t know what hit me. I lie on the ground, muttering. Were it not for Ananias and the others in Damascus, I would have been lost.

For several years after that I dropped off the map - almost literally. I travelled far into the desert of Arabia and wandered through the wilderness just like my forebears. I needed some time to sort out exactly what had just happened to me.

My life since then has been all about learning the prayer of that man who went down justified from the temple. “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”

Jesus says “All who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” And of this I am living proof. I have exalted myself, only to be humbled. And I have humbled myself, and been exalted more than I deserve.

It is the Great Reversal, of which he spoke so often: “The first shall be last, and the last shall be first.” God is not interested in our rankings or status or privileges. God sees us for who we truly are.

True humility, I’ve learned, is not about denying our gifts, our skills, and abilities. No, that would be false humility. The word itself - humble - comes from the root humus, meaning “of the earth.” To be humble is to be grounded. Remembering where we came from, and to where we shall return: “Remember thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return.” This is true humility.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if I, Paul, were to write a letter to you - the saints of God in Homewood?

Sure, I’ve gained a reputation for having a sharp tongue. I’d probably have some frank words for your leaders, when they get anxious and major in the minors so to speak. I’d probably remind you that what unites us in Christ is greater than what divides us. Many of my exhortations in my previous letters could equally apply to you.

But what I’d want you to know, uniquely, personally, directly: Is that God loves you unequivocally, without exception, without qualification. Not because of what you’ve achieved, but because of who you are. You are, each and every one of you, beloved.

Centered in this, our true identity, the rest of our lives will fall into holy order. If right action flows from right being, we would do well to contemplate the prayer of the wiser person: God, be merciful to me, a sinner. A sinner redeemed by the grace of God.

So pray this prayer. Make it your own. Paraphrase it into your own words. Live it, do it, be it…and you too will go out from this place justified.

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Sincerely,

Saul the Pharisee turned Paul the Apostle

Pledge 2023

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:16:02 GMT

Dear All Saints parishioners,

Were you to ever examine the Landry family budget you would discover your typical household expenses: a mortgage to keep a roof over our heads, insurance in case of emergency, utilities to keep the lights on, groceries - A LOT of groceries - to feed three youngsters, automobile expenses for transportation, clothing costs, kid’s allowances, medical bills, veterinary bills, and so on and so forth. On the surface there is nothing terribly exciting or unusual about our income and expenses.

What you would not be able to decipher by the numbers alone are the family meals where silliness and laughter ensue, nor would you see the memories being made. The expenses would not show curious young minds diligently doing their homework in a snug but sufficient abode, animals that offer endless companionship and entertainment, and a residence that will become much more than the sum of its parts - a house that becomes a home. The ledger alone never quite captures the entire story of our domestic life together.

The same could be said of the household of God, the church. Like your own home or business there are line items that add up to tell a larger story: sacred spaces that require regular maintenance and repair, skillful musicians that deserve their due; bread and wine, books and vestments that lend shape to our liturgy. There are the many meaningful relationships that require careful communication via computers, newsletters, phone calls, and websites. Taken on their own, any of these items may seem trivial and insignificant. But given the correct context, by filling in the blanks, by narrating the story we begin to see a much larger picture of our common life together as the household of God.

The mission of the church is not to raise money, for that would be far too small a vision. The mission of the Church is much more ambitious: to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ (BCP 855). The carrying out of that mission, however, does require the financial support of its members.

One item that stands out as essential in our household budget is our tithe to All Saints. It reminds us how much this sacred space and special people mean to us. And it reminds us what it feels like to act out of hope instead of fear, abundance instead of scarcity, faith instead of certainty.

I hope you will join Elizabeth and me in putting our money where our mission is. Our parish budget is much more than the sum of its parts. In between the bank statements and bills there is a larger story to be told - the story of this household, our parish community, your church.

Would you share in the narrative?

We will collect and bless our 2023 pledge cards on Sunday, October 30th. If you will not be present on that day, please bring your pledge card before then, mail it in, or fill out a pledge on our website. May we with gladness present the offerings and oblations of our life and labor to the Lord.

Grace & peace,

The Rev. Bradley J. Landry

Rector

Covenants

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 19:59:47 GMT

"Covenants"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 16, 2022

God does call us into a contract, God calls us into a covenant, to offer us God's very self, this is my blood of the new covenant, whenever you drink it do this to the remembrance of me.

Family Promise Benefit Breakfast

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 20:49:07 GMT

Everyone is invited to the Family Promise Benefit Breakfast, Tuesday, Oct. 25th, 7am at The Club Ballroom! While this is a fundraiser, there is no requirement to give. Family Promise of Birmingham simply asks for the chance to inform you of the organization’s efforts and inspire you to make an impact on our community. Your ticket and a buffet style breakfast are fully covered as a small gesture of thanks for taking time to learn more about this special organization. Reservations are free and include breakfast but seats are limited, so please confirm your attendance HERE .

More about Family Promise: it is the nation’s leading organization working to prevent and end family homelessness. Our holistic, community-based approach to helping families achieve stability makes us unique. Our mission is to help families experiencing homelessness and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a community-based response. We do this first by providing prevention services before families reach a crisis, shelter when homelessness is inevitable and stabilisation efforts to help families become and remain independent. While most shelters separate families based on gender, age, and generational placement, Family Promise of Birmingham’s focus is on keeping the family together. Not only does this prevent further fiscal and financial strain on the community, but it prevents significant unnecessary trauma on the family.

Episcopal Place Fundraiser

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 17:49:09 GMT

Please join us at Rojo, Tuesday, October 18th, 5:00pm-10:00pm for a special fundraising event for Episcopal Place ! Let's 'taco' bout Episcopal Place and the importance of affordable housing while we dine at one of our favorite restaurants, Rojo !

They will donate 10% of the night's profits to Episcopal Place. So arrive hungry and thirsty and be ready to have a nice time. Rojo Is located at 2921 Highland Ave South, Birmingham, 35205.

More about Episcopal Place: It is a model of affordable housing with supportive services that is very unique and extremely vital. Did you know that the need for housing for low income people grows greater each year? Current data from the Low Income Housing Coalition of Alabama (LIHCA) shows Alabama lacks over 90,000 affordable and available housing units for low-wage earning families ( https://lihca.org/ ).

The One Who Makes Us Whole

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 21:46:50 GMT

"The One Who Makes Us Whole"

Sermon by The Rev. Seth Olson

October 9, 2022

Most gracious God, giver of all that was and is and will be, let my words be your words, and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

Have you ever been in an in-between space? Maybe you were driving through suburban Birmingham wondering “Am I in Vestavia Hills, Hoover, or unincorporated Jefferson County right now?” Or perhaps it was a larger cultural barrier, like near an international boarder. This happened to me this summer when I traveled to Buffalo, New York.

Up in Western New York, I saw no Starbucks in sight, the only coffee shop was a Tim Horton’s, which is a famous Canadian franchise. On this trip, I realized the citizens of Buffalo love their American football playing Bills, but they also love their Sabres and the Canadian pastime of hockey in general. Being up there around so many polite Northerners—something I was not expecting—helped me to see, there is a culture somewhere between Canadian and American.

Even more disorienting than this liminal space up North are the disorienting borderlands we encounter in our day-to-day lives (not when driving through Jefferson County, but when going through life). Moments when we step into a place that is neither one way nor another, but still both at the same time, and a third way altogether. These neither/nor-both/and settings can be quite disorienting AND they provide us with a rich and challenging way of seeing life in a different way.

In today’s Gospel lesson, we are in such a setting. We find ourselves in the land between Samaria and Galilee—making the setting a borderland. We might quickly pass over this detail; however, the location shapes this entire story and provides us with another way of seeing reality. We will get to this other way of perceiving, but let’s first explore this land between Samaria and Galilee and this story of Jesus and the ten lepers.

Charles Youngson recently told me that the place between Samaria or Galilee is barren. In Jesus’ day there was not much there. It’s on the way somewhere, but it wasn’t a destination. In this in-between area resided 10 lepers. These 10 lepers lived here because they could not live in Galilee where purity laws would have prevented them from taking part in communal life. The Samaritans likewise did not want them, thus they all traveled outside their native territories to reside in this outsider space. Then, along came Jesus.

Approaching Jesus, the ten lepers respectfully kept their distance. This is a case of social distancing modeled for us in Holy Scripture. As the lepers politely stayed over six feet away, they cried out, “Jesus, master, have mercy on us!” Even in these few words, the lepers conferred much upon Jesus by, but it’s not clear in our translation.

In our version they called Jesus, “Master.” However, the more accurate translation here is “Doctor!” The lepers saw Jesus as powerful yes, but more like the Great Physician from whom all healing comes, not as a divine ruler who controls all things. This correct identification of Jesus was followed by the lepers asking Jesus to show mercy (one of God’s chief characteristics). Jesus obliged!

And yet, we do not hear Jesus saying something like, “You are made well by the power of God!” Instead, his invitation for healing was outsourced to the priests. Why? Because priests are awesome! Right?! No, this was because in those days, the pathway to someone being pronounced well, was not conducted by physicians who would provide a doctor’s notes, but by religious leaders who would ritualistically restore impure individuals. Therefore, the one-time-lepers were only fully returned to their community when they went before the priests for ritual reinstation. After Jesus’ instruction, all the lepers at first followed the advice to go see the priests, and on their way, they were made well.

Let’s pause a minute to learn more fully about the disease which caused so much pain for these ten souls. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, leprosy still exists. You can get leprosy from armadillos. Thank you for not bringing any to the pet blessing on Wednesday night. You can also catch it from being around someone with leprosy for months. Happily, there is a cure of antibiotics that kills the bacteria which causes leprosy. Sadly, even with modern medicine damage done by leprosy, such as loss of feeling or blindness cannot be reversed.

No longer having a disorder, which causes skin irritation, joint swelling, potential blindness, and other disabilities, whether long ago or today would be thrilling! Having pain subside stands out as monumental—life changing even! So, when this happened to nine of the ten lepers, they were presumably so fixated upon returning to fullness of life—to being restored in community that they went straightaway to find a priest.

As this story was happening in the liminal borderland, away from the normal boundaries of Jewish society, the former-lepers would have had to go back into Galilee or to Jerusalem to find the priest who presumably kicked them out of society in the first place. I do not know about you, but this would stress me out. It’s akin to combining a doctor’s appointment and an individual confession. I would want to get that out of the way as soon as possible. I cannot blame the nine lepers for wanting to get on with their lives.

Jesus though was critical of these ones who did not turn around. Why? Because the religious structure of that day was obsessed with rule following and ritual purity. Who could and could not be inside the synagogue or Temple was based on an intricate set of rules that had to be followed by all and was adjudicated by the religious leaders.

When Jesus was infuriated by the nine lepers who did not turn around and practice gratitude even though Jesus was the one who told them to go find a priest, we could easily think this was an attack on those who do not ever say thank you, but that’s not it! This was not about a personalized problem of nine souls not being thankful. It was not simply about personal healing or salvation, rather it was about both personal and systemic restoration—it was about the person and the larger community.

The one leper who turned around and gave thanks to Jesus was not a practicing Jew. Instead, he was a Samaritan, a foreigner. The literal translation from Greek is “other-generated” or “stranger.” This outsider did not have the same set of perimeters that the nine others did. They had to go and be pronounced clean if they wanted to return to normal social order. This Samaritan seemingly did not. He was free to express his appreciation in a completely authentic way.

So, that’s what the Samaritan did. He paid attention to what was happening. He saw that he was healed. He recognized the source of his healing was this merciful doctor named Jesus. So, observing the origins of his wellness, the Samaritan turned around and praised God with a loud voice. He laid face down at Jesus’ feet, and he thanked him.

Jesus immediately noticed this strange happenstance. Nine other one-time-lepers set off toward ritual clearance from the clergy, while this stranger outside of Jesus’ religious tradition turned around to practice gratitude. After commenting on the unusual nature of this situation, Jesus bent down to the prostrating man. “Get up and go on your way,” Jesus said, “Your faith has made you well.”

The Samaritan’s belief made him well—his trusting God through Jesus was the way to healing. The original language states it even more powerfully, “your trusting has made you whole.” In other words, the other nine needed a religious system to integrate them back into society. This Samaritan trusted Jesus such that his believing and gratitude restored him to wholeness.

This is the way Jesus invites us to walk too: Neither sulking in whatever dis-ease from which we are suffering, nor thinking that following a precise set of rules makes us whole, but instead seeing that even in the challenges and hardships of life Jesus walks with us on the way of ultimate healing. And our fitting response is gratitude!

The upcoming shape of our service follows a similar path! We seek wholeness, restoration, and integration in the Confession, Peace, and Great Thanksgiving. In the Confession we admit all the ways in which we are suffering and even how we, like the lepers, are isolated from our larger community. Charles (or I) will pronounce an absolution, a cleansing. It’s not ours (the priest’s) though. We re-present God in Christ—together we are restored, made whole, and integrated into the Body of Christ.

From that moment of forgiveness, we are swept up in the Peace of God. This peace, which passes all understanding, must be like the experience that the Samaritan leper felt upon seeing his skin healed and feeling his pain subsided. Soon enough we will find ourselves transported, as we gather around God’s Table to give thanksgiving.

In the Great Thanksgiving we, like the lone leper long ago, offer our gratitude for all that God has done. We do this by celebrating a feast that occupies a wild, liminal space and time. This gathering is both ancient and not yet fully realized—already, but not yet—proleptic is a good word for it. When we come to God’s Table it is not past, present, or future, but all three at the same time. In this both/and time and space, in this third way, we place bread and wine on the table AND we put symbols of our lives up there too.

Like the bread, our lives are blessed, broken, and given back to us transformed—not always how we want them to be handed back to us, not always shiny and new, but healed, resurrected lives nonetheless.

How will our lives be transformed? Well, how was the Samaritan leper’s life changed?

As we encounter Christ in the liminal spaces of our lives, God will heal our brokenness if we but cry out. When God does provide restoration, our giving thanks is a fitting blessing in response. As we celebrate the already-and-not-yet feast of the Holy Eucharist, we follow the Samaritan leper’s pattern. May we give thanks to our merciful doctor, the one who makes us whole, and may we follow in the transforming, resurrecting way of Christ now and always.

Small Things Matter

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 23:32:03 GMT

"Small Things Matter"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

October 2, 2022

Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love, and this is the lesson of the mustard seed. In the Kingdom of God small things matter. They may be tiny, but in the end, they are mighty.

Grace Episcopal Cleanup

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 17:25:52 GMT

Sign up today! Help spruce up Grace Episcopal Church, Woodlawn! We have been invited to partner with them in cleaning up their grounds on Sunday, October 16th starting at 1:00pm . We will be mowing, weed eating, trimming, and helping to repair the grounds at this historic church. The church address is 5712 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35212.

Rise Against Hunger

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 19:33:16 GMT

Rise Against Hunger on Saturday, October 1, 2022!

Jesus called his followers countless times to feed those who hunger. Come and help us fight food insecurity around the world by packing 11,232 meals in a morning at All Saints! 100 volunteers are needed from 9:00am-10:00am and 50 volunteers are needed from 10:00am-12:00pm . Come for a session or stay the whole morning!

For more information contact the Rev. Seth Olson at solson@allsaintsbhm.org .

ECW Fall Conference

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 15:11:38 GMT

This year's Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Fall Conference will be at St. Stephens Episcopal, Friday, November 4th from 2:00pm - 8:00pm AND Saturday, November 5th from 8:30am - 2:00pm. All women in the diocese are invited to this conference! Our speaker will be Melinda Rainey Thompson, author and humorist. Be a Part of us! The mission of the Alabama ECW is to empower, motivate, and nurture the women of the Diocese of Alabama in utilizing their gifts and talents to serve Christ in this world. Would you like to learn more about ECW? Contact President Fran Bramlette or visit https://www.alabamaecw.org/

More about ECW: Each year at the conference a Memorial Roll is read, and names are placed into a book of Remembrance, of women from each Parish who passed away in the previous year. (I am submitting names from 2020, 2021 and 2022.)

If you would like to submit a memorial gift for this roll either for an individual or in general you can make a check out to ECW with memorial roll on the memo line. Money goes to support the ECW college scholarship fund.

The names being submitted are:

Nancy Barker—1/3/2020

Marilyn Beard—9/9/2020

Gloria Brandon—1/14/2022

Leigh Burke—12/03/2020

Ava Chandler—8/04/2022

Frances Flynn—04/25/2022

Leann Hampton—11/17/2021

Barbara Hudson—08/19/2020

Kay Kellum—09/16/2021

Evelyn Layman—01/23/2022

Nona McGarity—12/04/2020

Marie Phillips—01/14/2020

Jane Poole—09/22/2020

Johanna Talley—06/06/2022

Leggo Your Ego

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 00:04:02 GMT

"Leggo Your Ego"

Sermon by The Rev. Charles Youngson

September 25, 2022

I’ve been watching a show this summer that I can’t in good conscience recommend from

the pulpit. Because the show should be titled, “How to be a horrible person.” Then again, if

you want to learn about the Kingdom of God by seeing people behave in ways opposite to its

values, then it may be the show for you. I’m referring to HBO’s Succession. Now three seasons

in, the show explores the lives of a billionaire media mogul named Logan Roy and his four

children who are each striving to take over the family empire when their father dies. The Roys

are constantly insulting each other and stabbing each other in the back. But that’s nothing

compared to the way they treat “regular” people.

A memorable scene from the pilot episode illustrates this well. The family and their

staff fly from Manhattan in a flock of helicopters to some beautiful, green setting for a family

baseball game. When Kendall, one of the sons, has to leave the game early on business, they invite a boy who is watching the game with his parents nearby to take Kendall’s place. Then another son, Roman, gets an idea. He offers the boy a million dollars if he can hit a homerun. He even writes out the check there on the ballfield. The boy gives it his best but gets tagged out. At that point Roman begins to taunt him and tears up the check in his face. The onlookers are so horrified by Roman’s behavior that the Roys’ lawyer has to offer the boy’s parents an expensive watch for their trouble and, of course, has them sign a non-disclosure agreement. It’s an early example of how removed and callous the family can be to the feelings of others. Later episodes focus on the family’s attempt to cover up reports of sexual exploitation and murder involving the staff of their cruise line. That’s when we’re introduced to a company acronym: N.R.P.I.—no real person involved. It’s not that the workers on the cruise line are considered less important, they aren’t even considered real people in the eyes of company executives.

F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote, “Let me tell you about the very rich. They are different from

you and me.” Ernest Hemingway famously retorted, “Yes, the rich are different. They have

more money.” In the time of Jesus, in the time of Fitzgerald and Hemingway, and in our own

time, we see that wealth can be a blessing, but just as often wealth becomes a curse. It can

bring us ease and comfort and enjoyment, but it can also make us unhappy. That’s because its very ability to shield us from pain also separates us from one another. It can blind us to the needs of the world and even the needs of the neighbor outside our gate. That’s the case in the story that Jesus tells to the self-important scribes and Pharisees in the reading from Luke’s Gospel today. This is one of my favorite parables because of how oblivious the rich man is. For this rich man, Lazarus is not a real person. He is invisible. My inner English major also loves the parallelism with which Jesus contrasts the condition of the rich man to that of the poor man:

dressed in purple and fine linen

covered with sores

feasted sumptuously every day

longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man's table

died and was buried

died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham

In Hades, where he was being tormented

At Abraham’s side

When both men die, there is a great reversal. Lazarus is given a place next to Abraham,

the father of the Jewish people, the example of righteousness and faithfulness. The rich man is in torment in Hades and condemned to watch Lazarus celebrating and feasting with Father

Abraham. Even in Hades, though, his spiritual blindness persists. He still thinks that Lazarus is his servant. So he asks Abraham to send Lazarus to give him a drink of water. When he finds out that is impossible, he begs Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his five brothers. At least he’s starting to think about someone other than himself, but he still hasn’t figured out that Lazarus is not going to be running any errands for him. Things have changed. And what does Abraham say? “They have Moses and the prophets, let them hear them.” In other words, the Scriptures are clear enough: we should look after those less fortunate, especially when they are right at our doorstep, and especially when we have been blessed with material abundance. But of course, the rich man is not used to being told, “no.” And so he argues, “If someone goes to my brothers from the dead, then they will repent.” But Abraham sticks to his guns and simply replies: “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.” In saying this, Jesus underlines the fact that what he has been teaching and what Moses and the prophets taught long ago are in agreement. He foreshadows his own death and resurrection. And finally he reveals that there will be some who still won’t believe even after they have seen him raised from the dead.

This story, like the many stories on the show Succession, is a story of the power of the

human ego to obscure reality. I often think of the ego as the suit of armor we put on to survive out there in the so-called “real world.” It’s all the external stuff that we surround ourselves with, from the house we live in, to the car we drive, to the accomplishments we love to tell others about. It’s not wrong to have nice things. It’s not wrong to have a healthy sense of ambition. The problem comes when we confuse the suit of armor with who we really are. Armor may protect us, but it also weighs us down. We can never put on enough armor

to protect ourselves from every vulnerability. And I assume it’s hard to see out of that helmet. In the same way, the ego can never be fully satisfied. The Roy family demonstrates this in every episode of Succession. They’re so busy getting what they want that they become blind to what they really need. What they want is power and prestige. What they need is what every human being needs--to be known, loved, and accepted for who they truly are. The only reason the show is watchable is that we occasionally we get glimpse of the vulnerable human being beneath all the selfishness and cynicism. We get to see that there is a real person buried beneath all those layers of ego.

We live in a time when the possession of money is considered by many to be a virtue in

itself. Jesus encountered a similar worldview in his time. Many of his religious opponents

considered wealth a sign of God’s favor. But the reality is that having money has a lot more to do with where you were born and to whom than it does to any special virtues one possesses. Sure, it may be an indication of hard work, ingenuity, and financial smarts. The tech billionaires we read about do have those qualities, but so do a lot of other people. If the tech billionaires are being honest, then they must admit they were in the right place at the right time. You and I are different from the Roy family. We don’t fly private jets to our mother’s wedding at a vineyard in Tuscany. If that is your world, I’d like to talk to you about our upcoming stewardship campaign. But all of us are rich in comparison to the people Jesus

associated with. What do we do with the worldly resources we have? Our readings today don’t condemn having wealth in and of itself. The rich man is condemned for his indifference to the needs of his neighbor. And in 1 Timothy, Paul does not say, “Money is the root of all evil,” though it is often misquoted that way. He says, “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Like any form of power, wealth can be dangerous and destructive. It’s what we do with it that matters.

We can watch a show like Succession and think, “Hey, at least I’m not like those people.”

But from a spiritual standpoint, it’s probably better if we consider how we are like them. We all carry a vulnerable child within us who has been wounded by the world’s lack of love. And we all try without success to make ourselves lovable by striving to look a certain way in the eyes of others. But Jesus invites us to lay aside that failed project and focus our efforts on a different project, not building up the ego, but building up the soul. The good news is this project requires no money.

Thankfully, God views things differently from Logan Roy. From God’s perspective, every

person is a real person. For every person was made in the image of God. And for that reason,

every person is of infinite value to God and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

You and I are real persons and we have been given real power in this world, whether that be in the form of money, brains, time, talent, physical strength, charisma, or many other forms. It does us no good to compare ourselves with our neighbors. They have different worldly

resources with which to address a different set of worldly problems. Whatever our gifts in this world are, the reality is they are transitory. As Paul reminds us, we brought nothing into this world, and we can take nothing out of it. But during our brief stay on this earth, we can use our resources to show love for others. So let us fight the good fight as we pursue not wealth, but the real virtues that make the world a better place: righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. These are things that money can’t buy. These are the things the world desperately needs.

Level 1 Atrium Assistant Training

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 21:40:13 GMT

Have you ever wondered what the Level I atrium is all about? Have you ever wondered why Level I atrium spiritually feeds adults as well as children? Or…have you ever just wanted to try Jeannie Feldman’s famous Chocolate Chip Cookies…? Please join us for a Level 1 Atrium Assistant Training which will be held in the All Saints Level I atrium Sunday, October 16, 2:00pm-4:00pm.

Please contact Kathleen Busbee, kbusbee@allsaintsbhm.org , if you would like to participate.

Advent Resources

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 19:01:11 GMT

Are you desiring a way to slow down and connect with God this Advent? All Saints has a couple of resources for this season in which we prepare for the coming of the Christ child at Christmas.

Booklet

Living Compass booklets will focus on simplicity this year and are available online HERE and at the church. Donations are appreciated.

Calendar

"Slow Down. Be Quiet. It's Advent." calendars offer daily Advent practices. These are available in person at church. Donations are appreciated.

Blood Drive

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 18:23:05 GMT

Local hospitals have an emergency demand for blood donations! The LifeSouth Blood Mobile will be at All Saints Sunday, September 25, 2022 from 9:00am until 1:00pm . Please roll up your sleeves and join us in giving the gift of life. Walk-ins are welcome! Or schedule an appointment: https://bit.ly/3ASRUAH . For more information contact the Rev. Seth Olson at solson@allsaintsbhm.org .

Please donate to help our local hospitals! Give Local. Save Local.

and

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 23:14:30 GMT

"and"

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

September 18, 2022

If we can nurture relationships, if we can create communities, if we can create systems where those at odds can be reconciled, we will have become co-creators with God in this sacred work of reconciling all things through Christ who Himself has reconciled us to God.

Coming Home

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 22:57:34 GMT

Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28
Psalm 14
1 Timothy 1:12-17
Luke 15:1-10

Sermon by the Rev. Seth Olson

September 11, 2022

Holy God, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

I love hide-and-seek! At least a few times a week, my five-year-old (Teddy) and I find ourselves sneaking around our home trying to evade one another. I am no longer the champion hider that I was during the days of deep pandemic time. Partially that is because our home only has so many hiding places, but also my child has grown up—he’s a much better seeker than he once was.

When the shoe is on the other foot, and Teddy is hiding, I admit that sometimes I intentionally do not find him at first. Even if I hear him giggling under the bed, I might walk down the hall for a while, so that he can reveal in the freedom of being “lost.” Of course, eventually he wants to be found—we all do. Perhaps more than anything else in the world, we yearn to be found.

If you have ever been truly lost it can be a bit terrifying. My first day of College Track practice at Sewanee was such an occasion. I ran with the rest of the team for 3 miles, but they dropped me as I was undertrained. Deep in the woods of the 13,000-acre campus, not knowing how to get out, I felt panicked. At first, I tried to keep running to find my way home; however, that only got me more lost. In those days we did not carry our cell phones everywhere either (man, I sound so old). So, I stopped, and I listened, and I prayed. Then, not too long after that, my friends came running down the trail where I was.

From time-to-time, all of us get a bit lost, and I do not mean like I did at track practice. Lost like we were 21 years ago today when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Lost like we might have been the past couple years. Lost like we forget who we are and whose we are.

When we are this kind of lost we might take inventory of our lived values with questions like: do I enjoy my job, am I fulfilled with my relationships, or how do I feel about my drinking? We might even feel lost as to what we are feeling inside saying: the world is moving on, but I feel stuck—I feel more uneasy or anxious and don’t know why. When we get this kind of lost our society claims there are many solutions to help us find our way and ourselves!

You probably know these promises that we willingly take on ourselves: When I get enough money then you will have made it. There’s that perfect job out there and once I get it, I’ll be set! My life will be complete when I find the right person. A baby will make my family whole! When my team, candidate, or company wins, then it’ll all finally be great! Maybe these “solutions” help us for a time, but what about when we are the type of lost that cannot be solved by earning more, doing more, or being more?

If we are not careful, we might mishear the words from Jesus today. We might mistakenly think Jesus is telling me to go do more – I am a shepherd who will be alright when I find the sheep, or I am like the woman who must get that money back! Here though Jesus is not telling us to just keep seeking until we find, instead he is describing something we cannot find or fix on our own.

When we are lost—when we feel as though our faith, our spirit, our soul is lost—we would be wise to hear three aspects of these stories Jesus told us today. First, when we are lost, it is not on us to become found. Second, while being found is not on us our role is not entirely passive either. Third, this is not a “being found” competition—in other words, we are invited into a celebration where we rejoice alongside others when God finds them too.

First, finding ourselves is not all up to us. There are a lot of books on Amazon with the title “Finding Myself,” and I am sure these volumes with thousands of five-star positive reviews do indeed help individuals to do the important work of discovering their truest selves. That work cannot be understated in how valuable it is. And yet, at the same time there is something fundamentally humorous in the idea of me being able to find myself if I am truly lost.

Jesus’ parables today enlighten us to the truth that sometimes we are the lost sheep or the lost coin. Anytime we get overwhelmed by the too-much-ness of this world, God is already searching for us. God is the foolish shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine other “found” (saved?) sheep to go find the one who has gone missing. Make no mistake this is poor animal husbandry; however, it is the audacious way that the Reign of Christ works! God comes looking for us.

In the same seemingly foolish way, the poor woman having just found her coin, then throwing a party for her neighbors would NOT have been the best financial decision. However, when she found a coin worth—funny enough, the amount of money needed to purchase a sheep—she could not help but celebrate with others. Jesus was not attempting to provide worldly wealth management advice, nor was he your typical shepherd. The way he depicts the Kingdom of Heaven points us toward seeing that God’s love is lavish, superfluous, extravagant, over-the-top, and even a bit dangerous (in the best possible way)!

So, if the point of these stories is that we aren’t the seekers, but the lost, then it’s not up to us at all—we’re merely passive passengers with Jesus taking the wheel, right? Well, this is the second point to notice—there’s this happy middle ground here, like when I was lost in the woods running. I could have keep searching by running and gotten myself more lost. Something deep within me though told me to stop and listen and be open to being found! Sure enough, I was. So was the lost sheep and so was the lost coin.

The point of the story then is that we are miserable sinners, and we should sin boldly, and get lost after some riotous living (like the Prodigal Son in another parable)! Right? That sounds fun! Except, that’s not it either. In the parable that follows right after today’s Gospel, the Prodigal Son gets lost too, and it’s not fun—he’s so desperate that he daydreams about eating pig slop and being a hired servant. Being lost takes its toll, living riotously is not all fun. Sometimes though it takes us reaching that sort of emptiness, that kind of breaking point to realize we’re lost and cannot get “un-lost” on our own.

The beauty is that we need only to be still, to pay attention, and be open to God. In this middle ground, God does something almost incomprehensible. God comes running for us, and when a lost sheep is found, a lost coin is retrieved, a lost child is home, there is a raucous party! Every time we find ourselves lost (haha), God will seek us out to bring us back home where a giant celebration will commence.

Still, there’s a third and final point here to the story. Yes, we are “lost” sinners and tax collectors, but we are also “found” religious ones like the scribes and Pharisees. Our part in these stories is multiple. We play more than one role. As we experience the relief of being found and coming home, our task is not then to ostracize those who have not yet realized that God is pursuing them. Our aim as cojourners on this spiritual path is to rejoice whenever one is found by God, and maybe something more.

It is quite easy to be cynical, to think like the older brother in the Prodigal Son story, that we have earned our way into the Household of God because God found us at a different time, but that’s not the point of these powerful parables. Instead, we are called to rejoice around the Table together recognizing just how magnificent it is that God seeks us still.

At times we might feel like we are playing hide-and-seek with God, but as we hear these parables of the found sheep and the found coin anew, may we recognize all the ways we fit into the story. At times we will be the lost ones, at times we will be the found ones, and at times we will be the ones invited to rejoice alongside lost ones coming home. Alongside God may we be like the Good Shepherd, the Searching Woman, and the Adoring Father who rejoice and celebrate the beauty of us all coming home.

Love Jesus First

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 19:22:51 GMT

"Love Jesus First", Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry, September 4, 2022. Jesus is calling us beyond our constraints to experience life as He intends.

Men's Bible Study

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 20:40:42 GMT

The Men’s Bible Study meets each week on the 1st Wednesday of the month at 7am at Edgars Bakery in Homewood. All other Wednesday's are 7am in the Jackson-Thorpe room. Come learn more about the Bible and how it relates to our lives. Join this lively discussion of Scripture and faith. No homework required!

For more information reach out to Charles: cyoungson@allsaintsbhm.org

Catechumenate

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 19:54:54 GMT

The Catechumenate is an organized time of Christian formation and education to guide anyone's walk in faith, as well as preparation for baptism, confirmation, reception to the Episcopal Church or renewal of baptismal vows. It is a time for training in Christian understandings about God, human relationships and the meaning of life. Participating classes include "Breakfast & the Bible", "Women on the Journey", "Faith & the Modern Family", "Twenties Together" and will meet at 9:45am in the Great Hall, September - May.

Read the article all about this from our Rector The Rev. Brad Landry HERE.

See keynote videos from this program HERE .

We're Hiring a Receptionist

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 17:56:08 GMT

All Saints is looking for a part-time receptionist Mon-Thurs during normal office hours. This position provides clerical and administrative support and services to the staff and volunteer personnel of the parish as well as being the primary contact for members, visitors, and businesses that approach the parish via telephone calls or in-person visits. If you or someone you know is interested, please reach out to Alison James to apply: finance@allsaintsbhm.org , read full details of the job here: https://bit.ly/3QV3CSk

Honor & Shame

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:55:29 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

“Honor and Shame”

Luke 14:1, 7-14 Proper 17

12th Sunday after Pentecost, August 28, 2022

One day this week, I was at the church office when I started to feel hungry like I often do

midmorning. I walked into our staff kitchen and there on the counter was a bag of homemade

chocolate chip cookies. “The Lord has provided,” I thought, as I went to get a cookie or five or

six. Then I realized, “Charles, these cookies are not for you.” These cookies are for the Kairos

prison ministry. Members of All Saints baked them for men who never get cookies. You can

have cookies anytime. So, as much as I wanted one, I didn’t take those cookies. It would have

been wrong. Whatever fleeting enjoyment I would have experienced from eating them would

have been outweighed by my sense of shame for having taken a downtrodden man’s treat

away. Whatever you may think about these men and what they done to get there, they have a

tough life. Imagine trying to sleep in large bunkroom in a metal building without air

conditioning in the heat of the Alabama summer. And that’s just the beginning.

Jesus said, “Whenever you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or

your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you

would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, crippled, the lame, and the

blind. And you will be blessed because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the

resurrection of the righteous.”

If you’re not familiar with Kairos, it is a weekend program of spiritual renewal for men

and women in prison. It comes out of the Cursillo movement. Members of various

denominations work together as a team to bring the light of Christ into a very dark place, a

place without much hope, a place with a lot of shame. The chocolate chip cookies are a big

highlight of the weekend and a bit of an incentive to get the participants to sign up. Some

would argue these men don’t deserve chocolate chip cookies. Many of them have done terrible

things. And that’s just it. They don’t deserve cookies, and that’s the point. The cookies are a

tangible sign of God’s grace, which none of us deserve. For as St. Paul writes, “all have sinned

and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). All of us have done things of which we are

ashamed. And all of us have been made to feel ashamed by another person at some point in

our lives.

Today’s Gospel reading from Luke is all about honor and shame. Acquiring honor and

avoiding shame was an important aspect in the culture in which Jesus lived. You could be born

with honor or earn honor by doing something noble for your family, city, or country. You could

lose honor and gain shame by doing something foolish or detrimental to society. Honor and

shame are still very much at work in our own time and culture, though they take different

forms. Modern Americans tend to put more emphasis on individual achievements, self-esteem,

and personal growth, whereas in ancient times honor and shame were much more communal

in nature.

But we all know that painful feeling of shame. It’s the feeling of being less than,

worthless, like we’re two feet tall. It goes beyond temporary embarrassment. It sticks with you and is hard to let go of. And it is different from guilt, which is more the acknowledgment of having done wrong. Brene Brown is a bestselling author on the subject of shame and an Episcopalian (by the way.) She describes the difference between shame and guilt this way, “I believe that guilt is adaptive and helpful—it’s holding something we’ve done or failed to do up against our values and feeling psychological discomfort.” She goes on to say, “I define shame as the intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging—something we’ve experienced, done, or failed to do makes us unworthy of connection. I don’t believe shame is helpful or productive. In fact, I think shame is much more

likely to be the source of destructive, hurtful behavior than the solution or cure. I think the fear

of disconnection can make us dangerous.”1 Perhaps honor and shame served a function in

regulating early human societies, but by the time of Jesus, people had gotten quite skilled at

using honor and shame to reinforce social hierarchies. Still today, honor and shame are how

we keep people in their place.

And knowing your place is a key theme in this reading today from Luke. Jesus is at a

dinner party at the home of a leader of the Pharisees. That may seem odd since the Pharisees

are usually his antagonists. But Jesus was not one to turn down a dinner invitation even from

those who were very different from him. Much of his ministry took place around a common

table. And so he ate with sinners, prostitutes, tax collectors, and other dishonorable people.

But he also ate with good religious folk, like the Pharisees. And we all know that then as now

who you eat with and where you sit at the table mean something. Like he often does, Jesus

makes use of the outward situation to teach a lesson with a much deeper meaning. First, he

addresses the guests. And then he addresses the host. To the guests who are trying to claim

the places of honor at the table, he tells a parable, more of a proverb really, on good etiquette

at a wedding banquet. It would be rude and presumptuous to sit at the head table without

being invited by the host. How shameful to be told, “Give this more distinguished person your

place. You go take the lowest place.” Much better to take the lowest place and be invited to

move up higher. That would be an honor. But this being Jesus, we know he is not just teaching

an etiquette lesson. There is a spiritual truth here as well. That’s why he goes on to say, “For all

who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Then he takes it a step further and addresses the host. To him, he says, “Don’t invite

your family, friends, and rich neighbors, to your party. Invite the poor and disabled. They can’t

repay you. Instead, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Now, this is not

very good advice if you’re trying to get ahead in society. But it is wise counsel for those who

want to live by God’s standard of honor now and in the age to come.

You see, God has a very different set of values when it comes to honor and shame. In

God’s Kingdom, there is no social hierarchy. We are all brothers and sisters. We each have a

place at the table. And the table is round. No place is more honorable than another. God

doesn’t judge us by how much we have, how much we know, or how much we’ve

accomplished. God doesn’t judge us by who our family is or who are friends are. All of that

may be useful when it comes to getting by in this world, but it won’t matter much once our

time on earth is done. What will matter is the love we showed toward others, especially the

love we showed toward those who can’t give us anything in return: the least, the last, and the

lost.

Which takes me back to the cookies for Kairos. This weekend, for the first time since the

pandemic started, seven All Saints parishioners are going to prison. Frank Kimball, Carter

Laney, Charles McCalley, Hank Poellnitz, John Poole, Tom Richeson, and Danny Whitsett are at

Elmore Correctional Facility near Wetumpka to share the love of Christ with a group of men

who have very little honor and a lot of shame by the standards of the world. They will take

their place at the table with them as equals despite the long list of personal achievements and

honors these seven men have accrued during their lifetime. They will serve 500 dozen cookies

that you and other churches baked for the men in white. They will feel the support of countless

prayers that you all offered. This will be the 22nd Kairos at Elmore, and it’s fitting that All Saints

members make up such a large percentage of the staff since it was a Cursillo reunion group

from All Saints who brought the first Kairos to Elmore more than 15 years ago. It will no doubt

be a humbling experience, one in which our seven men will receive as much as they give. They

will see the humanity of these men.

They will recognize that, as Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy and founder of the

Equal Justice Initiative down in Montgomery is known for saying, “each person is more than the

worst thing they've ever done.” You and I are more than the worst thing we’ve ever done, too.

We all have sinned, but we are all saints, doing our best to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. By

God’s grace we can let go of the shame this world uses to keep us in our place. We can instead

claim our inheritance as children of God and heirs of a kingdom that is eternal. We claim this

inheritance not by lifting ourselves up by our own bootstraps. We claim this inheritance by

letting our loving Father lift us up into his arms. It is in that embrace that we come to know and

feel that we are truly loved and accepted.

Running with the Saints

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 18:06:05 GMT

Join this social running group for a 2, 3, or 4 mile trek around the All Saints neighborhood every Wednesday evening. We will start out each run at the front doors of the church with a prayer. Meet out front at 6:00pm. All skill levels welcome! Contact Seth Olson, solson@allsaintsbhm.org .

Meet & Eat

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 17:19:40 GMT

Food is a common ground for a universal experience! And that is what "Meet and Eat" is all about! This is a ministry that connects parishioners at any age through the love of food! Groups consist of six to eight people and meet approximately once a month as determined by the group. Married couples, singles, people with kids and without, whether you are new to All Saints or not so new, you are invited to participate. Groups can meet in each each other's homes, in restaurants, at the church, over a picnic or some combination of these. It is a great way to get to know people in our church by sharing a meal together. Applications are due September 19, 2022. Fill them out HERE

This group will have a "kickoff" Sunday, September 25, 2022 during our Annual Choir BBQ that will be after the 11:00am service that day! Come meet your group and enjoy a meal with the choir! Find more info about costs and details HERE.

Personal Hygiene Drive

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 17:16:23 GMT

Personal hygiene drive for the LoveLady Center! We are collecting disposable razors, body wash, lotion, tampons, deodorant, soap, toothpaste, hair brushes/combs, nail clippers, shampoo/conditioner and underwear sizes small-XXlarge for the LoveLady Center. Please drop off in the basket in the collection area near the Sacristy (down the cloister hall on the left) by August 31, 2022.

Christian Formation Pop-Up

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 17:14:32 GMT

There will be a "Christian Formation Pop-Up Session", Sunday, September 4, 2022, 9:45am in the Great Hall . How is music formational, in theory and in practice? The Music Ministry at All Saints is broad and deep, covering all ages and impacting many aspects of our church life. Come hear Melanie and Maggie discuss and demonstrate how this plays out in our corporate worship as well as in our small group settings. You might even get to sing a new tune or play an instrument! Even the littlest ones will be invited to sing along and make music. Who knows what fun awaits!

Atrium Orientation

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 16:58:17 GMT

Atrium Orientation will take place on August 31 and September 1, 2022 from 6:30pm -7:30pm for all 3-year-olds or any children that are new to Level I atrium. There will be a meeting for their parents during this time.

What is Atrium? Find out more HERE .

Breakfast and the Bible Intergenerational Class

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 16:41:37 GMT

Breakfast and the Bible Intergenerational Class is every Sunday at 9:45 am in the Great Hall. Come grab breakfast and share in an all-ages Bible study looking at the Holy Scripture, which will be read during the Sunday Services. This is an opportunity for us to listen to one another hearing how the Spirit is speaking to the Church!

See our full line-up of Sunday activities

Evergreen Sale

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 18:05:37 GMT

Update about our annual "Evergreen Sale". Unfortunately, due to increased pricing and a shortened deadline for the church order, the evergreen sale will not take place this year. Our thanks and apologies to all that have faithfully supported this fundraiser in the past.

Children's and Youth Music Kickoff Party

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 16:52:00 GMT

Interested in children's and youth choirs at All Saints? The Children's and Youth Music Kickoff Party is Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at 6:00pm ! We will play musical bingo, eat pizza and have a fabulous time getting to know each other. All children and youth who are interested in our music groups are welcome to attend (children 1st grade and younger, please plan to attend with a parent). Let us know if you plan on coming by emailing Maggie Gill, Youth and Children's Music Director, at mgill@allsaintsbhm.org .

Systemic Healing

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 23:14:12 GMT

The Rev. Seth Olson

Loving, life-giving, and liberating God, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

Have you ever been driving down the road in your car when a warning signal lights up on your dashboard? What did you do when that happened? Maybe if it was a routine maintenance light, you kept on driving. What if it was the check engine light? Did you stop or find the nearest mechanic? Or, did you drive that car off the road into a ravine? That may sound dramatic, but there are times in life when we are given warnings about not automotive systems, but communal systems.

When there are persisting problems within our family, friends, workplace, civic organizations, church, or other groups we usually do not get a flashing light on the dashboard of life. Still, we can and often do sadly see someone veering a community into the ditch when challenges arise. So, how do we respond to difficulties within our communities in a way that leads to healing instead of harming? Today’s Gospel story gives us a great example of systemic healing.

In this passage, Jesus was serving as the guest rabbi at a synagogue. In the middle of the teaching, a woman crippled for the past 18 years appeared. Jesus healed the woman, and she began praising God. The leader of the synagogue became angry for Jesus healed on the Sabbath, but he directed his ire towards the crowds. To which Jesus responded with a powerful retort that left everyone in amazement. This is the basic outline of the story, but it is in the details that we find not only the devil, but also God. Let’s take a closer look.

One detail that appears odd is the number eighteen. Eighteen years is a long time—eighteen years ago Facebook was just beginning, there was no iPhone, and gas was $1.88/gallon.

In Hebrew, though numbers carry their own importance. Each letter possesses a numerical value. The number ten is the letter yud and the number eight is the letter het. Het-yud spells a word in Hebrew, which is C-h-a-i, but pronounced like high. This word chai means life. This is heard in the phrase “L’Chaim!” often said at bat or bar mitzvahs or at weddings—it means “To life!”. So, bringing it back to our story for today, the woman had this ailment for eighteen years, but there is also a play on words happening here—she was stuck with this disease for life—there was no hope for her healing, at least that’s how it seemed.

You, like me, might be wondering, from what disease was she suffering? Some scholars believe it was scoliosis, others think it was Scheuermann’s Kyphosis, while still others maintain it was ankylosing spondylitis. Regardless of the disease, Jesus saw it fit to restore this woman. Jesus healed her not by casting out a demon or by making mud, like he did elsewhere, but by setting her free. You might expect that the woman’s religious leader would be elated; however, the leader of the synagogue could not rejoice in the healing! Why?

This is where we get into the challenges that face systems or communities. To understand the synagogue leader’s frustrations, we must explore the health of this system. Every system from a nuclear family unit to a multi-national corporation has a level of health. We know very little about this synagogue system other than what is written in this story, but it is enough to get a sense of its health.

We know that there were crowds gathered. We know that there was a leader. We know that this leader had at least made room for Jesus to come in and teach. We also discover that this leader was seemingly adamant about following the rules around the Sabbath.

When Jesus healed the woman crippled for eighteen years, the synagogue leader protested not the healing, but the timing of it. Some rabbis, like this synagogue leader, utilized the original Creation story to exemplify our need to not work on the Sabbath—a good thing! However, Jesus highlighted another aspect of Sabbath relying upon a teaching from the Book of Deuteronomy, which connects Sabbath with the Exodus from Egypt. Jesus seemingly wanted to emphasize, “Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day.” Jesus saw the Sabbath as a day of not only rest, but also unbinding and restoration!

There is more to this story though. While the stated reason for the synagogue leader’s frustration was Sabbath healing, there seems to be more here to his anger. Maybe he was mad because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, or maybe he was upset because Jesus had healed this woman at all, or maybe he was upset because he couldn’t heal the woman. Regardless of the reasoning, what is more fascinating than the anger is how he expressed it. Notice where he directed his frustration! It was not at Jesus, nor the woman, but the crowds!

This is where we really see the check engine or check system light flashing on the proverbial dashboard of this synagogue community. The rabbi is angry that someone in his community has been healed—not by him on the Sabbath day. He expressed the anger at the crowd in attendance, it would be like me yelling at the choir or ushers for showing up. Now, in systems there can be someone who bears the burden of the collective unhealth or anxiety of the whole community.

This person is called the identified patient. This could be seen in acting out of the ordinary, chronic illness, avoidance, anxiety, depression, or many other symptoms. The identified patient is not bad or wrong, rather they are the one through which the stress of an organization or community is being expressed. Looking at this story we can see something remarkable happening when healing is introduced.

The bent over woman was carrying around the dis-ease of this community. She was the one weighed down, stooped over as though she was shouldering a heavy load. What was causing this? This might be a leap, but it had something to do with the man-made traditions that this community of faith had created—these were slowly adding up on this woman’s shoulders. She was bent over not because of the Faith of Abraham and Sarah, not because of Judaism, but because like all religions (including our own) when people add our human laws to the system often the community gets burdened with too much that they cannot experience the freedom which comes in following the way of God. This was why Jesus emphasized a different aspect of the Sabbath.

To Jesus, the Sabbath was not only about rest, but also about release. In truth, if we look at the whole of Luke’s Gospel account, we will see this theme of freedom prominently displayed. Jesus even announced his mission in the following way: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (4:18-19). So what does this matter to us? What implication does this have upon us?

Well, how do our modern-day systems create unhealthiness? We often use others as cogs in a machine to make our lives easier without any regard for the impact on their lives. The communities we belong to can lose sight of how our decisions and rules push us into loving things and using people instead of the other way around. So, what do we do?

Where can we take part in unburdening, that is the liberation of ourselves and others? We may not see the systems that exist right under our noses—we believe we are free only to discover that the economic, political, and religious institutions in our society often run by extracting a great toll from our neighbors and from us. If everything is transactional, then we too are bound up like the woman long ago! Until all of us are free from this sort of binding up, none of us are truly free.

And yet, there is hope for all of us. In so many ways we may feel bound up in things that do not give us nourishment, sustenance, and abundance of life. There is another way though that does not depend upon transactions—an eye for an eye or $3.50 for a gallon of gas. Jesus models giftedness—that is grace, giving for fun and for free.

This giftedness starts in Holy Baptism, which we will celebrate at the 11:00 service today. In this sacrament, we are reminded that God gives all of us forgiveness of sins, release from bondage, and newness of life. This is a completely free gift; however, what is often glossed over is that this Baptism is a life-altering transformation, it will cost us.

The symbol of Baptism in our context is a sprinkling of water, but it’s more aptly represented by a flood—one in which our old ways of being are no more, and instead we are invited to walk in the way of love laid out by Jesus our Savior. This way of love breaks down systems that oppress, unbinds those who have been bent down, and unshackles all of us from any way that does not lead to flourishing and abundance of life.

May we walk in this way of love. May we take part in God’s grace, which frees us all from a life of oppression and gifts us with a new way of being free. L'Chaim—To God’s abundant life!

Flower Guild

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 21:11:44 GMT

Let your creativity blossom! The Flower Guild is seeking new members to spread the joy of flowers and greenery at All Saints. Members serve on assigned teams that take turns preparing arrangements for the altar each Sunday. For holidays and special events, members work together to decorate the church. We welcome all who are interested in joining this ministry to share the beauty of plants. From experienced floral designers to those with no prior experience but a desire to learn from our talented members.

For more information email Harriet Alley, allsaintshwdflowerguild@gmail.com or call 205-617-0600

Safety & Assistance Council

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 17:37:08 GMT

At All Saints Episcopal Church we are currently working through many aspects of our safety and assistance protocols. We want to be sure we are trained to assist when there are health emergencies as well as provide a level of safety for staff and parishioners that we are all comfortable with. As we work through the many aspects of what this means and the process itself, we are looking for parishioners to help us build that structure. If you are interested in being on this new council, please fill out THIS FORM

Christian Formation Open House

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 16:00:56 GMT

Wondering what Sunday School classes are offered at All Saints? Have you ever wanted to see what happens in the Atrium? Are you interested in what our Youth Sunday School classes learn? Come to the Christian Formation Open House on Sunday, August 21, 2022 in the Great Hall at 9:45am . We will begin with a short presentation (breakfast will be offered), then there will be time to tour the various Sunday morning Christian Formation offerings for children, youth and adults!

QR Codes

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 18:00:53 GMT

In addition to the printed bulletins we will have for you as normal, we are also providing digital bulletins that can be attained by scanning the QR codes in the Cloister and the Narthex. You will also find other helpful information for newcomers and current parishioners. If you have any feedback about this new tool, reach out the Brian Wallace: bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org

Blessing Sunday Leaders

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 17:55:09 GMT

If you are in any way part of our Sunday ministries join us this Sunday, August 21st at either the 8:30am or 11am service for a blessing. This will be an official commissioning of Sunday school teachers, formation leaders, catechists, ministers to our youth or children and anyone that is part of a ministry on Sunday's.

RMD & Appreciation Stock

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 22:31:13 GMT

Did you know that you may be eligible for a tax break and help our church at the same time? If you are over 72 and have a traditional IRA, you will have a required minimum distribution (RMD) which must be distributed out of your IRA each year. Instead of accepting those funds directly and paying taxes on the funds, you can transfer the funds directly from an IRA to an IRS approved charity, such as All Saints.

This is a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). There are minimal requirements to this but the main one is that the funds must go directly from your IRA to the charity. Although the charitable contribution is not deductible, the distribution from the IRA is not taxable. The payout qualifies as a RMD. This technique can be done to satisfy all or any portion of your RMD.

Also, if you have any stock that has appreciated in value you can get a charitable deduction for the current price at the time of transfer without having to pay capital gains tax on the increased value of the donated stock. For instance, if you have stock which you bought at $1.00 and it is now worth $10.00, you can transfer that stock directly to All Saints’ and have it sell the stock at $10.00. All Saints’ is a tax exempt entity so it will not be required to pay any capital gains taxes on the $9.00 in gain. The donor gets to deduct the full value of the stock, or $10.00 in this example. This is another win-win for the taxpayers and our church.

If you have any questions, contact your tax advisor or Finance Committee members Tom Simpson, thomassimpson@bellsouth.net or Nancy Ball, nkwball@gmail.com .

It's All About Context

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:45:20 GMT

If our faith is to become a fire it must be kindled in May rejoin with Jesus in praying for his holy fire to be kindle in us not in a flame that incinerates but a fire to touch our Hearst and set them on fire with love for ur Lord.

Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

August 14, 2022

Welcome Linda!

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 20:12:14 GMT

Join us in welcoming Linda Kizziah as our new part-time receptionist! Linda has been a parishioner at All Saints since 1987. She has volunteered for many years and now gets a chance to work here.

"I have always wanted to work here, I love the people," says Linda. "This is like a second home for me." Linda is a familiar face to many of us and now will be for those visiting the church. If you haven't already, say hello to her the next chance you get.

So, where is Tara you may ask? She will still be there to greet you in the afternoons. In the mornings she is working in-depth on parish duties in a space that offers fewer interruptions.

EYC Fall Kickoff

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 16:19:34 GMT

EYC Fall Kick-off Event! We can't wait to start this school year with our EYC Pool Party! All youth in grades 6-12 are invited to join us for a pool party on August 21, 2022 from 4:00pm-6:00 pm at the Hollifield home. This kick-off event is an invitation for all youth to be a part of the All Saints youth community!

This is also the last event that Kristin Blackerby, Director of Youth Ministries, will be a part of! So don't miss your chance to spend some time with her before she is whisked away by the Diocese. You can read more about her new position HERE .

If you need more information like location of the pool party, etc., email kblackerby@allsaintsbhm.org

You are Invited to a New Journey in Faith

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 14:54:32 GMT

“What do you seek?”

These four words, which form a question of great significance, are addressed to those who are preparing for baptism, confirmation, reception, or renewal into Christ’s body, the Church.

The given answer, according to The Book of Occasional Services, is “Life in Christ.” Intriguing, however, are the words added in parenthetical italics: (The seeker may expand on the answer in their own words.)

In their own words … There have been times during this past year, were I to be honest, where all I seek is a bit of respite from the craziness of these times: a break from breaking news, gun violence, continuing COVID concerns, economic inflation, racial injustice, and all the other issues that just seem so far beyond my control.

The remedy for weariness, however, is not to give up and disconnect, but to reconnect with the source of what gives us life. Whenever I find myself weary and overwhelmed I find myself especially drawn to the promise of Jesus, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Paradoxically, the cross we are each called to carry as disciples of Christ is not intended to crush our souls and bodies. Yoked side-by-side with Jesus, we do not shoulder the cross alone. Learning from this gentle Jesus we find that this cross is “none other than the way of life and peace.”

So, how might we lean into this life-giving promise? How do we come to Jesus, take up his yoke, and learn from him? How do we seek this life in Christ?

This fall I would like to invite you into a new journey of faith at All Saints called The Catechumenate (pronounced kat-i-kyoo-muh-net.) This is an ancient process that has guided the church through times of plague and pestilence, the rise and fall of empires, persecutions, rebellions, and revolution. The Catechumenate is more apprenticeship than program, more journey than destination. It is an invitation to walk together the Way of Jesus.

On Sunday, August 21 All Saints will be hosting a Christian Formation Open House at 9:45 in the Great Hall. Here you can learn more about the Catechumenate and all the other Sunday School classes offered for all ages throughout the fall.

We will begin the first phase of The Catechumenate on Sunday, September 11 in the Great Hall at 9:45am. This will include a 15-20 minute plenary session, small group table discussion, and summary.

The Catechumenate is made up of four distinct phases, which roughly mirror the academic year:

Inquiry - Throughout late summer and early fall we will focus on foundational narratives in Holy Scripture such as Creation, the Flood, the Exodus, and the Promise of the Prophets.
Exploration - This phase begins on the First Sunday of Advent (November 27) with the Admission of Catechumens and Renewers during the Sunday liturgy (renewers are those who seek confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation in the Episcopal Church).
Preparation - On the First Sunday of Lent those who have been preparing for baptism, confirmation, reception, or renewal will be enrolled as Catechumens and Renewers. The season of Lent is traditionally called a period of enlightenment and includes the customary lenten disciplines as the intensification of their preparation. This all comes to a crescendo in the administration of Holy Baptism and the Renewal of Baptismal Vows at the Great Vigil of Easter (April 8).
Reflection - Following the experience of Holy Week and the Great Vigil of Easter comes a period of reflection throughout Eastertide through to Pentecost. Those who have been preparing for Confirmation, Reception, or Reaffirmation will publicly reaffirm their baptismal vows at the Bishop’s visitation in May.

So, who is the Catechumenate for? In short, the Catechumenate is for all of us. Coming through this bizarre season of pandemic, it is my strong conviction that nearly all of us are longing for a sense of reconnection and renewal. Whether you have been at All Saints your entire life, or whether you have only recently discovered our church - the Catechumenate is for you.

I hope to see you in the coming Sundays as we continue on this journey of faith and follow the Way of Jesus together.

Grace & peace,

What's in Your Wallet?

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 23:04:57 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

Sermon

August 7, 2022

I remember one day during my freshman year of college, I decided to go for a

run on the campus jogging track. The thing wasn’t more than a quarter of a mile

around, so I figured my backpack, which had my wallet in it, would be fine

underneath a nearby tree. By the time I noticed it was gone, the thief had already

gone shopping at Best Buy with my credit card. Of course, I called the bank to cancel

my card. But as an 18-year-old male, my main concern was how I was going to eat

dinner that night. I had no cash or credit cards. I couldn’t write a check without a

driver’s license. And my card for the dining hall was also in my stolen wallet. I

learned some valuable lessons that day. First of all, don’t leave your valuables

unattended. But more importantly, I learned that friendship is much more valuable

than money.

My friend Mike kindly took me out to dinner that night. When we got to the

restaurant, I noticed it was really crowded for Tuesday night, and it seemed to be

mostly couples eating together. That’s when it hit me that I would have to swallow

my pride and let Mike buy me dinner on Valentine’s Day. I never forgot about

Valentine’s Day again. And I never forgot Mike’s generosity. We were each other’s

best men in our weddings. And we are still good friends to this day.

What’s in your wallet? That’s the question at the end of each Capital One

credit card commercial. They want us worried that we’re missing out on all the

benefits of having their card over whatever “substandard” card we currently carry.

It’s an effective ad campaign, mainly because it is such a catchy and thoughtprovoking

question. You can tell a lot about someone by what’s in their wallet.

What is it that I don’t leave home without? What do I choose to carry around

everywhere I go?

In one of my favorite Seinfeld episodes, Jerry and his friend George are sitting

at the coffee shop they frequent discussing wallets. Jerry is singing the praises of his

slimmed down wallet. George responds, “It doesn’t matter if it’s more comfortable,

it’s wrong.”

“Why?” Jerry asks.

“Because important things go in a case! You got a skull for your brain, a

plastic sleeve for your comb, and a wallet for your money.” At this point George

pulls out his four-inch thick behemoth of wallet. “I need everything in there,” he

tells Jerry.

Jerry starts to look through it: “Irish money?”

“I might go there.”

“Show this card at any participating Orlando area Exxon station to get your

free save the tiger poster?”

Exasperated, George grabs some Sweet ‘n Low packets from the table, stuffs

them in his wallet, and shoves the whole thing back into is pocket. The episode

revolves around George’s ridiculously overstuffed wallet versus the “European

Carryall” that Jerry ends up getting and which he insists is “not a purse.”

People didn’t carry wallets in Jesus’ time, but they did have purses for their

coins. In our reading from Luke today, we hear Jesus saying, “Make purses for

yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief

comes near and no moth destroys.” What did people in those days do with their

money? There were some rudimentary forms of banking and investing in that time,

but mostly people carried their money on their person or hid it in the ground or

bought something of value with it that couldn’t be easily stolen like land or animals.

Jesus speaks about money a lot in the Gospels, more than he speaks of holier

topics like prayer or faith. Of his forty recorded parables, eleven of them concern

money in some way. In this lesson from Luke, Jesus explains why. He tells the

disciples, “For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” Jesus

understood that how we use our money reveals a lot about our inner life. He is in

effect asking us, “What’s in your wallet?”

I don’t know about you, but when I put my wallet, my car keys, and cell

phone into my pockets before leaving the house, I feel powerful. And compared to

most of the people who have ever lived, I am quite powerful. Just think, people used

to risk their lives and sail around the world to find spices like nutmeg. Whereas

today, if I wanted to, with nothing more than what’s in my pockets, I could get in my

car after church, drive to the airport, and buy a ticket to Hawaii or Alaska. And

while I waited for my flight, I could watch a movie on my phone and even sprinkle a

dash of nutmeg in my latte made from coffee grown in Ethiopia or Indonesia.

And yet, as powerful as modern people are with our wallets and cell phones,

we just have to look at the news to realize how vulnerable we really are. What’s in

my wallet can’t do all that much to protect me from random violence, disease,

accidents, or environmental disaster. And for people without thick wallets, that

becomes even more of a reality.

You could say that our basic human condition is one of vulnerability:

physical, emotional, mental, and even spiritual vulnerability. The world can be an

uncertain and fearful place at times. If anything can go right, then it can also go

wrong. What do we do with that knowledge? Do we deny it and pretend it’s not

true? Do we crouch in fear, afraid to leave our homes? Do we arm ourselves and

fight for survival? Jesus offers another path. “Do not be afraid, little flock,” he tells

the disciples. “For it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Even

though the people of his time lived in even more precarious circumstances than we

do, he tells them, “Don’t be afraid.” If anyone could clearly see the dangers inherent

in this world, it was Jesus. So how can he reassure them in this way?

He can say this because he knows his Father’s will. He knows God’s good

intentions for humanity. As we read in Jeremiah, “For I know the plans I have for

you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you

hope and a future” (Jer. 29:11). Jesus sees the world differently. Jesus sees strength

hidden within vulnerability. He sees the eternal hidden within the temporal. He

sees the future hidden in the present.

It’s human nature to focus on externals, to focus on what’s right in front of us,

the immediate problem at hand. We wouldn’t survive long without this instinct. But

Jesus calls us to a higher vision. He calls us to look to a further horizon beyond the

things of this world. He calls us to a higher purpose. But in order for us to be able to

set aside our fear and live lives of love and hope, well, that requires a secret

ingredient, something no credit card can purchase. That requires faith. The author

of Hebrews tells us, “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of

things not seen” (Hebrews 12:1). Then he reminds us that the foundation of our

religion is the faith of our ancestor Abraham and his willingness to trust in God’s

promises. It takes faith to trust that God is at work in our lives and in the world

around us, especially when we come face to face with tragedy.

We live between two worlds, two kingdoms. We live between how things are

and how they one day will be. Jesus teaches that during these in between times, our

attitude should be one of hopeful expectation. As one theologian put it, this passage

from Luke focuses “not so much on the end times as on the end ways.” We are to be

ready and alert, not out of fear of punishment, but in hope of blessing. For it is your

Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

While George Costanza is far from the most admirable character ever to

appear on TV, he does offer us some words of wisdom in this episode. Important

things go in a case. But he fails to follow his own advice by stuffing a bunch of

unimportant things into his wallet. Wallets invite theological reflection because

they are so symbolic. The wallet itself symbolizes our worldly power. The cards

and bills in there don’t have any intrinsic value. They, too, are symbols. They tell

the world something about who we are, that is, who we are on the surface.

You could think of the outward elements of your life in this world as your

wallet, the case that holds what’s really important. Caring for and protecting the

case is important, but not nearly as important caring for what’s inside. The outward

dimension of life, from the things we own to the very bodies we inhabit, none of

these things last forever. Like an old wallet, everything wears out eventually. But

your true self is eternal. We ought to have an ID card in our wallets that tells the

world who we really are, that says “Child of God, Heir of the Kingdom.” It certainly

wouldn’t get you through the TSA line at the airport, but the truth of what it

represents would get you to a far better destination. So, ask yourself what’s in your

wallet? And then make sure you are carrying around what really matters.

Compassionate Listening

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 17:00:14 GMT

Compassionate listening is about coming together to practice cultivating compassion for ourselves and others so we can listen and speak from our hearts. Facilitated by Elizabeth Vander Kamp, this course will be offered in Rooms 223 and 224 on Friday, September 9 (4-10pm), Saturday, September 10 (8am-6pm), and Sunday, September 11 (12-5pm) for those 16 years of age and older. Cost is $250 per person or $400 per couple with a portion of proceeds going to the church. Please contact Elizabeth for more information at superpowerlistening@gmail.com .

Noncomplementary Behavior

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 21:46:46 GMT

It was a warm summer evening in Washington D.C. when eight friends gathered to raise a glass or two of French wine and share in a delicious dinner. A man named Michael, his Wife, and their 14 year-old daughter were among the guests. The group talked and toasted the night away with laughter filling up the nighttime air. Then, all of a sudden it happened.

An arm stretched out of seemingly nowhere to produce a gun with a long barrel. The hand with the gun belonged to a man. The man was well kempt, dressed in athletic gear, and of medium height and build. He pointed the gun at one of Michael’s friends, then at Michael’s wife. The intruder asked her to give him her money, first in a calm voice, then more hysterically.

Michael and his friends believed the man, but there was a slight problem, none of them had any money. The group of friends next attempted to persuade the man to pursue some alternative path. At first, they tried guilt. “What would your mother think?” they asked. He replied angrily, “I have no mother!” Michael kept thinking, this is going to end terribly, “We may end up dead.”

Then, one of the women at the table, Christina, piped up. She spoke to the man with the gun saying that this group of friends was there celebrating, and why not join them for a glass of wine. A switch went off in the man and the entire group could feel it. All of a sudden the man’s countenance shifted. He took a sip from the glass he was handed and replied, “[Man], that’s a really good glass of wine.” He reached down for some cheese on the table and put the gun in his pocket.

Then, the man uttered, “I think I’ve come to the wrong place.” The group all responded in a supportive way, “We understand.” For a moment they all sat together in this strange bit of fellowship with the celestial lights of the night shining down and the sound of cicadas filling the space of the evening air. At this moment the intruding man, now disarmed, asked, “Can I get a hug?”

One by one the party-goers gave the man a hug. Then he asked for a group hug, which the friends reluctantly gave to the once-threatening man. He said he was sorry, and walked out the gate with a glass of wine in his hand. After catching their breath and calming down a bit the friends found the wine glass on the concrete in the alleyway. It was not smashed and shattered in anger or revolt. It was not haphazardly tossed aside in apathy. No, the glass was neatly placed on the ground. All of the friends went inside to cry in gratitude. [1]

This is a story from the podcast Invisibilia, which means invisible things. The show airs on National Public Radio (NPR) and explores the hidden forces—“ideas, beliefs, assumptions, and emotions”—that control our human behavior. On this particular episode, which aired back in 2016, the program broached a topic called “noncomplementary behavior.” Most of the time when someone treats us in a certain way, our instinctive response is to reply in the same way. When someone does us a favor we respond in turn—when they hurt us, we hurt them. Noncomplementary behavior, though is something different. It is how Jesus lived his life and how he teaches us to live ours as well.

Jesus said “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile” (Matthew 5:38-41). Additionally, he spoke, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you” (6:27-28). Countless stories Jesus told—including today’s—show us how we can use noncomplementary behavior to reveal God’s Reign, not at some distant time and place, but here and now.

The Good Samaritan was a story to teach his followers to see their enemies as neighbors. The Prodigal Son informed those listening that no matter how far away they thought someone was from the Father, God was always ready to embrace and celebrate a child’s coming home. And in today’s Gospel lesson, Jesus again used noncomplementary behavior to show us that he was not sent to be a judge or an arbitrator, but a teacher and a friend.

A man came to get Jesus to settle the score between his brother and himself. Jesus would do no such thing, alternatively he warned against greed by telling a parable. A man had a bumper crop. To accommodate for this great yield, he contemplated tearing down his barns and building up giant silos instead. This was shrewd business. To build up a new barn was complementary behavior—the crops produced more, so now I must store more. However, the motivation this man felt was not practicality, but rather greed. He wanted to not only build silos, but also to silo himself off from the world saying, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, [and] be merry.” This too is common, complementary behavior in our world.

We are hungry, so we must eat; however, we get greedy—not just for money, but also for power, prestige, and place in this world. Jesus came to teach us the way to the Father that life is more than just the accumulation of status symbols. God says to us just like he said to that man long ago, “You fool! Right now your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” We who have been given of God’s abundance can be tricked into thinking that it belongs to us, and our common instinct pushes us to hide it all away, but that is not what Jesus teaches us here.

This does not mean that you have to liquidate all your assets, that is not what I am saying, but what we store up and how we store it matters. We may believe that we own things in this world, but all of it—every single penny—comes from God and it will return to God. We hear this in the story.

Notice the way Jesus talks about the bumper crop. He does not say the man produced it, but rather that the rich man’s land produced it. It is God who provided for the man, but the man got greedy and wanted to insulate himself from the world. When we silo ourselves away, we may be doing what is prevalent in our society, but this is not how Jesus lived his life—and it’s not how he teaches us to live.

Jesus used noncomplementary behavior throughout his life to live the Good News of God’s saving grace. When asked to be a judge in this lesson, he instead taught and befriended the brother to help him learn. When at Table with his followers Jesus did not take the best seat, but counterintuitively he served his disciples to teach them about true leadership. When being crucified on the cross Jesus’ last words, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do” flew in the face of a world obsessed with vengeance. And, the ultimate noncomplementary behavior came as God responded to humanity’s attempts to kill Jesus not with wrath, but with the loving light of Resurrection.

We seem to be wired to respond in complementary ways. When someone rips out our eye we want to come back and take both of theirs. If someone talks badly about us, we do the same. Some believe the solution to violence is more violence. Others turn to more and more isolation to silo themselves off from anything that is different. This is not the way of Jesus. Jesus used noncomplementary behavior to challenge the status quo. He seemed to say, “True wealth is not in holding onto money, but in sharing with others; right leadership is not in lording over others, but in serving them; and real power comes not in perpetuating violence, but in the love that not even death can overcome.”

Back on June 16, Bart Rainey, Sharon Yeager, and Jane Pounds, the three martyrs of St. Stephen’s Church, along with others who attended that potluck practiced this noncomplementary behavior. They offered wine, food, and hospitality to a stranger. Unlike what happened on the Invisibilia episode though, their actions cost them their lives and forever altered the life of our sister parish.

Sometimes when we speak as Christians, it feels aspirational, like we are aiming towards some goal we all can work towards; however, in seeing the lives of innocent Episcopalians extinguished in violence it feels dangerous to say what I am about to say—dangerous, but important and ultimately in the way of Christ. We are called to live noncomplementary lives—lives that are often out of step with the longings and desires of our society—lives that are of Jesus’ way.

When others are greedy, we are to be givers.

When the world is power-hungry, we are to be servants.

When our society is violent, we are to be peacemakers.

May we walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself for us, an offering and sacrifice to God. Amen.

Mercy

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 21:16:20 GMT

Sermon, July 24, 2022

The Rev. Brad Landry

"Mercy"

I will listen to what the Lord God is saying for He is speaking peace to His faithful people and to those who turn their hearts to Him.

In Praise of Martha

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 15:29:06 GMT

One of the side effects of the Covid-19 pandemic has been what economists have

named the Great Resignation. In the last year and a half, the so-called “quit rate” soared as

people left their jobs for a variety of different reasons. Some left out of fear of illness, some

because of long-standing dissatisfaction with their working conditions. Some realized their

time was better spent outside of paid employment. Some saw a chance for higher pay or

advancement in a labor market in which unemployment is very low. The result is that, as the

economy returns to a new normal, it certainly feels like there aren’t enough workers to provide

the goods and services we want and need in the manner to which we are accustomed. The

employees who do show up are often spread very thin and overburdened, which makes them

want to quit, too.

Non-profits and churches are also feeling the pinch as a shortage of volunteers makes it

difficult to carry out business as usual. Even here at All Saints we’ve be struggling to get enough

acolytes, readers, lemonade volunteers, and ushers. Some of this is typical for summer. Some

of it is the pent-up demand for travel, and some of it is that people have gotten out of the habit

of coming to church during the pandemic. This isn’t just true of our church. Seth just returned

from General Convention and can attest to the fact that most churches are facing a similar

challenge as we emerge from the pandemic.

If you work in church ministry long enough, whether as paid staff or as a volunteer, at

some point you will feel like Martha in today’s Gospel reading. Jesus is teaching in her home in

the town of Bethany. Martha sees her sister sitting and listening to him and complains, “Lord,

do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help

me.” Now before we get to Jesus’ response to her, let’s give Martha some credit. We don’t

know what she was busy with or why she was worried and distracted. But we can assume she

was the one providing the food, cleaning up the house, and making sure her guests felt at

home. She was attending to the practical matters of the day. Those things are important.

Somebody’s got to sweep the floor, take out the trash, and do the laundry.

All of us spend a good portion of our day attending to the mundane tasks that keep

things running smoothly and make it possible to achieve higher goals. Like Martha we all want

to feel appreciated. And no one wants to feel like they have to do it all. We want help. In fact,

that’s one of the simplest and most frequent prayers. It’s one of the three basic prayers author

Ann Lamott identifies in her charming book on that subject called Help, Thanks, Wow!

Think of how often you have prayed some version of “Help me, Lord.” The Bible and

Prayer Book are full of similar expressions: “Lord have mercy, Lord hear my prayer, or save me,

Lord.” Who hasn’t felt like Martha in your work at home, at the office, or at school? Feeling

that no one will help you, that you’re all alone in your struggle? Who hasn’t felt worried and

distracted by many things just like Martha did that day when Jesus was at her house? We’ve all

been there. We feel you, Martha.

The truth is that as individual Christians, we are called to be like Martha, not necessarily

worrying and complaining, but caring for others in practical ways. And as a church, we are

called to be like Martha as well. A church that never attended to the practical needs of its

community or that never provided tangible forms of hospitality wouldn’t be much of a church

at all. Jesus was fully human and cared about human needs. And the church that bears his

name has the honor of caring for the human beings, those within our community as well as

those beyond our walls. That calling involves the stewardship of human resources.

In the fall we typically address the stewardship of money. But equally important is the

stewardship of time and talent. The church depends on its members to give of themselves in

practical ways to carry on the ministry of Christ in our own time and place. Sometimes that

means doing this less glamorous work of mixing the lemonade, washing the acolyte robes, and

weeding the flower beds. In fact, almost any action can be a ministry if it is done with love and

in service of God’s kingdom.

But we also need to be like Mary in our individual lives and in our communal life as a

church. I would say that most churches err on the side of being too busy, too task-oriented, too

practical-minded. It’s easy to fall into the trap of rushing from task to task without appreciating

the beauty of the present moment, without spending time recognizing the greater meaning to

which our tasks point. Like Mary we need to spend time at the feet of Jesus, listening and

learning from him, and enjoying his presence. If we don’t, we’ll lose sight of what it’s all about.

We’ll fail to keep the main thing the main thing.

If you’ve ever fallen in love with someone, you know how little it matters what you

actually do when you’re together. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a trip to Target, you just

want to spend time in each other’s company. Devotion to God is not all that different. God

doesn’t really care whether you pray the Daily Office, walk a labyrinth, or serve meals at a soup

kitchen. God just wants to be with you in whatever way you will let him.

Whenever we hear this Gospel lesson, it’s tempting to classify ourselves as either a

Mary or a Martha, as if this passage is a kind of biblical personality test. And it’s true, some of

us like Mary are drawn more to prayer, contemplation, and study. Others, like Martha, are

drawn more to service and action. But the reality is the Christian life is about prayer and

service, contemplation and action, love of God and love of neighbor. It’s not either/or; it’s

both/and.

One of the interesting things about this story is that it comes right after the parable of

the Good Samaritan, which we heard last week. The stories are actually interrelated. Some

would say that one passage is incomplete without the other. And upon first glance, you might

think Jesus is giving conflicting advice. To the lawyer who prides himself on his knowledge of

the commandments, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan and then says, “Go and do

likewise.” Go provide tangible support to someone who is suffering. But to Mary who sits at

his feet listening instead of helping her sister in the kitchen, he says she has chosen the better

part and it will not be taken away from her. In other words, don’t miss out on a chance to know

God more deeply because you are busy with your to-do list. For the lawyer he illustrates love

of neighbor and for Mary and Martha he illustrates the love of God.

Also notice that the Samaritan and Mary are unlikely heroes in these stories. The fact

that a Samaritan fulfills the commandment to love his neighbor was shocking to the Jewish

lawyer. And in today’s passage, it was equally shocking for a woman to be treated like a

disciple and given permission to sit with the men at the feet of the rabbi. This story reminds us

that being a disciple often means breaking through culturally imposed roles, customs, and

traditions. That may mean challenging the values of our society, which often makes idols out of

productivity, efficiency, and accomplishments.

These past couple of years have shown us that people want to work. They want to give

of their time and talent and energy to contribute something of value to our world. But people

want meaningful work, where they feel respected and valued. No one wants to be a cog in a

machine. And people need balance between work and leisure. Work is only one of many

dimensions of life. There is so much more to life than earning a paycheck so that we can

consume more goods and services. The good life includes time with family and friends. It

includes taking care of ourselves and our loved ones. It involves growing in knowledge and

wisdom. It’s about devotion to God and service to our neighbor. Sometimes quitting a job is

the right thing to do if it leads to the more abundant life Jesus promises. I certainly can’t tell

you what to do when it comes to your specific job, but even if we resign from a job, may we

never give in to resignation. May we never resign ourselves to a life that falls short of the

freedom and joy that God intends for us.

Who is My Neighbor?

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 19:40:10 GMT

"Who is My Neighbor? - For whatever you do to one of the least of me, you have done it to me. July 10, 2022 sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

Proclaiming Shalom

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 17:35:54 GMT

All-peaceful God, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

If you have ever received an email from me, I probably concluded the digital correspondence by writing “God’s Peace,” as a shorthand way of saying, “May the peace of Almighty God, which passes all understanding be upon you and remain with you, now and always.” You can probably understand why I’ve shortened that phrase to “God’s Peace.” Typing these words have become so ingrained in me that I sometimes do not even think about what I am pressing on the keyboard. Am I simply wishing you to have a good day? Is this just a religious way of saying, “Best wishes”? Or, is this a prayer for peace and something more?

Peace might seem unattainable in our world today. The United States, which is about to turn 246 years old as a nation, is not at war with anyone—at least not at the moment. However, war rages in Ukraine; gun violence infects our schools, churches, streets, and homes; political battles are soaked not just in passive aggressiveness, but in real threats of physical violence; some say that we are at war with a woman’s autonomy of her own body; and many of us feel restless with the state of the world. So, as much as I wish I could just email everyone, “God’s peace,” and that make things all better, I do not believe that will bring much aid or comfort during these intense times. We find ourselves situated within a way of violence that goes back not just to the start of our country, but millennia before that, so where do we go from here?

Peter Rollins, a Northern Irish Theologian, once said, “Violence is the termination of conversation or dialogue.” [1] What I took from these words is that when we can no longer peaceably communicate with one another violence ensues—whether or not any shots are fired, or punches are thrown. However, what happens when the shouting voices all around us in society do not even want to take a breath to pause from spewing vitriol? What do we do not to react, but to respond to all the hurt around us, so the conversation can continue? How do we bring peace to all the open wounds of our day?

A long time ago, a wise soul also knew that the world was immersed in violent ways avoiding the conversation and deeply hurting. That wise one was Jesus of Nazareth, a faithful, Jewish man who lived under an oppressive regime who had colonized his people. This empire pronounced a supposed peace that was more fear of might than lasting tranquility. The Pax Romana, the peace of Rome, was a fallacy based on the myth that might makes right.

On top of this, the religious leaders of his day brokered in power—often cozying up to the imperial leaders. When things got out of hand these leaders of the Faith would not enact violence, but instead ask the Empire to do it, so that the religious ones avoided ritualistic impurity. This time two thousand years ago in 1 ^st Century, Roman-occupied, Jewish Palestine was not all that different than our own age.

And yet, Jesus still had the audacity to send seventy-two of his followers, people like you and me, out on what could only be described as a fool’s errand. Why did he do this? Because Jesus knew that the people in these cities and towns were wounded, in much the same way that people in our day are wounded—and what would be the salve for these injuries? Not the Peace of Rome, but the Peace of God. This was a marvelous opportunity!

“The harvest is plentiful” was the way Jesus said it; “But, the laborers are few,” he added. Then he sent them on their way urgently! They were to go right then, unprepared! This would be akin to sheep being amongst wolves. The Seventy-Two were not to pack anything, leaving them in a vulnerable position, but certainly Jesus would give them some secret healing power to cure the hurt that so many were feeling, right?

What did the text tell us? It informs us that Jesus sent his followers with simple words for each home, “Peace to this house!” That’s it. So, are we back to emailing the whole world a message of thoughts and prayers or peace and love? NO! You may already know this, but our word for peace suffers from being weighed down carrying too many veiled meanings.

Peace seems to mean too many things and nothing at all. United Nations peacekeeping missions often include lots of weapons to ensure that peace sticks, and understandably so. Peace to some means a lack of gunshots in their neighborhood, but to others it points to a feeling that occurs when everything is just perfect—so often a state that is unattainable. Now, none of these comes anywhere close to capturing what Jesus said.

Last Sunday night, though Jeannie Feldman did. At the start of Vacation Bible School, Jeannie, one of our outstanding Children’s Ministers (along with Kathleen Busbee and Joie Hoke and so many amazing volunteers), last Sunday night, Jeannie started the whole VBS by saying “Shalom!” Brad, added "Shalom y'all!" Now, that is the same word that we translate as peace in our Gospel lesson for today. Our children at VBS learned more about Shalom throughout the week. It does not simply mean peace—it’s not a fuzzy feeling of calm, nor is it an absence of open hostility, rather it is a word that signifies that God yearns for your healing, your restoration, and your salvation.

Those who were audaciously sent out like sheep among wolves were armed only with the message of peace, but that peace known as Shalom changed the world, and it still has that power today. When Jesus’ messengers were visiting new towns and sharing God’s peace, something remarkable took place. Despite not having anything in the way of provisions, God provided for them through the generosity of their neighbors. Despite not having anything extra, they were able to bring God’s abundant healing to the open wounds of many. Despite only having God’s Shalom, they cast out demons, which a mentor (the Rev. Tom Macfie Jr.) told me are a great way of saying our false selves.

The seventy-two messengers of God went out and they found others who were attracted to healing, restoration, and salvation. Funny enough the travelers received this sort of peace in the hospitality they received. If they had lost hope in their fellow humans, those wounds were healed when they were welcomed, housed, and fed by strangers. Then, they shared this Shalom with others as together they did God’s work of ministry even before Jesus was able to do that work in many of these places. That’s remarkable!

All this talk about Shalom and peace sounds so lovely back then, but what about in our day, which feels anything but peaceful? Not three weeks ago our beloved siblings in Christ at St. Stephen’s encountered violence within their holy walls. In recent days, historic legal decisions being reversed has left many feeling unsafe, angry, and depressed. And, across the globe we are watching in real time a bloody conflict between Russia and the Ukraine unfold. How do we bring Shalom to others when it feels anything but peaceful among, between, and within us?

First, when it comes to personal safety, it feels problematic at best for me to recommend anything that would put any of you in harm’s way. And, while what Jesus asked of the Seventy-Two was radical, it was also practical. When they encountered those who did not want to take part in Shalom, who did not want healing, restoration, and salvation, they were not to keep at it indefinitely. Instead, they were to wipe off the dirt, or in our case red clay, from their feet and keep going. And, that is what we too must do. We must bring Shalom to those who are ready to receive it. Remember: the harvest is plentiful!

But, what if we do not feel like that Shalom resides within us? Friends, sometimes you will be the one bringing healing, restoration, and salvation to others (you will be the Seventy-Two)—and sometimes you will be the one desperately in need of that healing (you will be one offering hospitality to peace-bearers).

The Seventy-Two went together in pairs to practice vulnerability and to bring peace. They completed their work not by browbeating or proselytizing, but by revealing God’s healing power already at work within individuals and households. The many who received these travelers were open and hospitable, which lead to transformation! In our day, we have the same opportunities set before us. As we see in others and experience within ourselves the hurts of this life, we are called to bring Shalom, to receive it, to vulnerably live as bearers of healing, restoration, and salvation—in other words, God’s peace, y'all! Amen.

Breakfast is Served!

bwallace@allsaintsbhm.org — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 15:31:24 GMT

Do you smell those eggs and bacon cooking! Join us for breakfast every Sunday morning from 8:00am - 9:45am. Cost is $5 per person or $15 per family. You can pay via cash, a check or pay through Realm (use the dropdown and choose breakfast).

What do we do with our anger?

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 18:53:49 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

June 26, 2022 3rd Sunday after Pentecost

Proper 8: Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62

“What do we do with our anger?”

Believe it or not, 21 years ago, I stood in this same pulpit and preached on these same

readings. I was a mere lad of 26 then, not even out of seminary. I was staying with my parents

for the summer in a little bungalow across the traffic circle from All Saints so that I could do

Clinical Pastoral Education at UAB Hospital. In CPE you’re basically a chaplain intern for 10

weeks. A lady in the class ahead of me at Sewanee had encouraged me to come to UAB. She

had done the same program the summer before and said it wasn’t too bad. Her name was

Glenda Curry, and she lied. No, in reality CPE is the best experience you never want to repeat.

Back then, neither Glenda nor I had any notion that we would one day serve as priests at All

Saints. So, in preparation to preach this week, I went back and read my sermon from 2001.

And all I can say is, “I’m sorry.” Just kidding, it wasn’t too bad, but I’m not going to re-preach it

for you either.

Then as now, I have to laugh at James and John’s question in the Gospel reading: “Lord,

do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” Now what

kind of question is that? Jesus gets the cold shoulder in a Samaritan village, and now James and

John want God burn down the village and everyone in it. First, do they really believe they have

the power to command fire to rain down from heaven? And second, after all the time they’ve

spent with Jesus, do they really believe he will approve of their idea? No wonder Luke tells us

Jesus rebuked them. James and John were nicknamed the “sons of thunder,” maybe because

of this very incident. Or maybe they were just known to be hot-headed. But their question

does not come completely out of left field. They were remembering something that Elijah the

prophet once did. Elijah had called down fire upon King Ahazaiah’s soldiers, who had come to

capture him. Perhaps it was not his best moment, but it was definitely a memorable one. Now

James and John want to try their hand at this kind of thing. After all, weren’t they students of a

prophet even more powerful than Elijah? The disciples are furious because showing hospitality

to strangers was a chief virtue in that culture. It could even be a matter of life or death. But

Jesus doesn’t give in to their desire for revenge. He simply moves on to another village.

It's interesting to see how Jesus responds to the disciples’ anger because it certainly

seems that American society is getting angrier. I came across a helpful article from a couple of

summers ago about this subject. In it, Raymond Novaco, a psychology professor at the

University of California at Irvine refers to our media-saturated culture as an “anger incubator.”

Our media seems to feed on anger along with all the other vices on the list that Paul offers us in

the reading from Galatians. In addition to the usual subjects of fornication and drunkenness,

Paul lists enmities, strife, jealousy, anger, quarrels, dissensions, and factions as “works of the

flesh.” All these terms describe the many ways we push each other away.

Angry conflict among humans is nothing new, but its effects are still destructive. We

can blame the media all we want, but at some point, we must admit that they’re just giving us

what we want. We must get something out of feeling angry on some level. Is it a sense of

control in a chaotic and changing world? Do we feel a sort of high from being righteously

indignant? Does anger help mask other emotions like fear or sadness.

Now, there are things in our world for which we can be legitimately angry. There are

times when even Jesus expressed anger toward injustice. Anger is a normal and natural

emotion. It is neither good nor bad. It is one of the ways our body prepares us to respond to a

threat. How can we not feel anger that our children can’t go to school without the fear of

never returning home again? How can we not feel angry that senior citizens at a church potluck

are shot to death for offering hospitality to a desperate man? Something is clearly wrong in our

society. There seems to be a lot of unhealed trauma, too much isolation, too much fascination

with guns and violence, too much bitterness and resentment and all the things on Paul’s list of

vices. What can we do as Christians to bring Christ’s healing to this world? I believe we start

with the only person we can change—ourselves. Then we focus on what we can do as a

community of faith.

What do we do with our anger? We know what doesn’t work. It doesn’t work to deny it

or stuff it down inside. It’s not helpful to spread it to others. And we certainly don’t want to act

out our anger in ways that harm others or ourselves. How often do we hold onto to our anger,

ruminate on it, and then turn it into a story about how the world is against us?

In the article I mentioned earlier, Dr. Novaco offers three antidotes to anger that all

begin with the letter A. And maybe not so surprisingly, they are common practices in the

church. To avoid holding on to anger, he recommends practicing appreciation, affiliation, and

aspiration. Appreciation means paying attention to what is going well in your life, what brings

you fulfillment and joy. In the church we call that gratitude. Affiliation is about nurturing

relationships and a sense of belonging. In the church we call that fellowship or community.

And he says, “Aspiration means striving to accomplish things that are bigger than yourself or

that serve other people.”1 In the church we call that ministry or service. All are ways of loving

your neighbor as yourself. And loving yourself is and taking care of yourself is important.

Appreciation, affiliation, and aspiration. It may not be a complete answer to our anger

problem, but it’s a good start.

It's tragic to me that three pillars of St. Stephen’s Church, Jane and Bart and Sharon,

were killed for doing the very thing that Jesus teaches us to do, offering hospitality to a

dispirited man. And it’s tragic to me that Mr. Smith, was so close to finding the very thing he

needed. Something, or more accurately, someone, was drawing him toward that community.

He would show up at the potluck. He would show up at church. But apparently, he would sit

alone. We don’t know why he did what he did, but he was so close to finding a loving, Spiritfilled

community, one that might have brought him healing and prevented him from turning his

anger into violence against innocent people. But it’s sort of like going to the gym and never

actually exercising. Simply being in the building is not enough. Showing up may be half the

battle, but we still have to participate in our own healing. We still have to let down our walls

enough to let God’s healing love come in. God’s love can change us, but God won’t force us to

change.

So, what do we do with our anger? We need to feel our anger and listen to what it is

telling us. Then we need to give it to God. If we hold onto it, it will harm our bodies and harm

our relationships. But if we give our anger back to God, God can transform that energy into

something productive. Some of the most powerful changes in our society have come about

because Christian people allowed God to turn their anger at injustice into a peaceful, positive

force for good. That kind of change is not easy. And it doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens

in a community empowered by the Holy Spirit. It happens in the church when we embody the

fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and

self-control. These are the virtues that change the world. If you can’t remember them, they

are etched in the windows behind you that separate the nave and the narthex. We are

reminded of those virtues when we come to worship. But more importantly we are reminded

of them as we head into the world. None of us is immune to vices on Paul’s “bad” list. But

neither is anyone incapable of living out the virtues on Paul’s “good” list. In fact, the Spirit is

always at work in every person, in the life of the sinner and the saint. The Spirit is always

forming us into people who can enjoy the good things in life, the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy,

peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I still believe

the church is where the Spirit does its best work, not a church building but a church community

focused on following Christ’s way of love. It is in service to Christ’s way, that we find true

freedom.

Therefore...

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 18:43:50 GMT

The Rev. Bradley J. Landry

Proper 7c (2022)

Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul?

And why are you so disquieted within me?

Over, and over again this is the cry of distress the psalmist laments to God in the psalms which we have just recited this morning.

Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul?

And why are you so disquieted within me?

Perhaps our souls are heavy today because, as Mother Theresa once prayed, “God break my heart so completely that the whole world falls in.”

Or, perhaps our souls are disquieted today because we have grown numb to the white noise of weekly tragedies, our hearts hardened like stone. “Compassion fatigue” it has even been called.

Heaviness. Do you feel it?

Disquietude. Yes, our anxious thoughts can get so noisy.

Those are two words that I imagine summarize very well what many of us may have been feeling these past several days.

Thursday evening I began to receive multiple messages from friends back in Texas frantically asking if we were safe. Alarmed, I began to search for breaking news and my stomach lurched as I stared in disbelief at the words “active shooter - St. Stephen’s - Vestavia Hills.” I preemptively sent a message to my parents - who never seem to stop worrying about their adult son - before they saw the news and panicked.

In this world of weekly tragedies, it’s no wonder our hearts sometimes throb in pain, and at other times seem numb and stone cold.

Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul?

And why are you so disquieted within me?

But here’s the thing. And it’s a BIG thing for us to pay attention to: Often in the very next breath, as if out of some sense of defiant hope, the psalmist says a surprising word: therefore.

Yes, my soul may be heavy; THEREFORE I will recount the goodness of God.

Yes, my soul may be disquieted with in me; THEREFORE I will remember the faithfulness of our Father.

Yes, there may be wickedness in the world; THEREFORE I will recall the lovingkindness of the Lord.

THEREFORE, for us, despite our own heaviness of heart and disquietude of spirit, though our hearts may be throbbing or hard as stone…we must remember. We must recount who God is, we must recall who and whose we are. In the midst of inexplicable evil and suffering, we must lean on one another - literally re-membering ourselves to one another and to God. Like the psalmist, we must ask ourselves “What act of defiant hope, what remembrances will we utter as we call on our faith during these troubled times?”

Well, first of all, this morning we are given a lesson from the First Book of Kings where, we may remember, the prophet Elijah has had his life threatened by the idolatrous King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. Having previously witnessed the almighty power of God called down on Mount Carmel, Elijah is now scared and running for his life…fleeing nearly three hundred miles away to Mount Horeb. And, truth be told, he is exhausted and ready to die. He is led to a cave where God reveals God’s-very-self to Elijah, this time not in flash or flame, not in a loud rushing wind or earthquake, but in what the scripture calls “the sound of sheer silence.”

Silence.

At the diocesan prayer vigil this past Friday, Bishop G spoke of silence as the “lap of God.” And in the midst of unspeakable suffering and violence, sometimes silence is the only appropriate response. Silence, which, as Elijah learned, is not the absence of God, but rather the sacred silence that speaks of a presence more powerful than words.

Admittedly, practicing such sacred silence can be difficult when our souls are disquieted. Those who are practitioners of centering prayer or meditation will often tell you that perfection is not the goal, but merely the return to the breath, or scripture, or whatever tool is used to quiet anxious thoughts. Maybe Elijah is teaching us that, even and especially in the midst of violence and fear, to be still. Be still and know. To be still and know that God is still with us. This inner stillness, this peaceful presence is what must precede and empower any meaningful action we take in the world.

Secondly this morning, we have been given this rather perplexing story of Jesus’ encounter with the Gerasene demoniac. Whether we’d call this today severe mental illness or assign it to the spiritual forces of darkness, what matters is that Jesus saw this man. He saw this man not as others in the town saw him (as a threat), but saw in him - distorted as it was - the image and likeness of God. Like the Gerasene demoniac, there is much that needs to be cast out, much that needs to be healed both in ourselves and in our world. But it is also worth remembering, as Jesus did with this man, the inherent goodness, the original grace bestowed upon us by our Creator.

Yesterday there was a touching and powerful tribute by the family of Walter Rainey - one of the victims who died on Thursday. Walter, a longtime parishioner at St. Stephen’s, had seen this unknown man sitting alone at the potluck and invited him to join the others. The family reflected that their father, grandfather, and friend had died doing what he had done so many times before: practicing hospitality, living out his faith, inviting others to come to the table and break bread together in the fellowship of faith. In the midst of this tragedy, it is a powerful statement on behalf of this family to proclaim that he died practicing his faith.

Friends, as we grapple with heavy hearts and disquieted spirits, I do not have any easy answers as to what reforms might be made or what policies put in place that would help bring an end to these senseless acts of violence.

What I do know is that our diocese and our vestries will be discussing security plans and how to keep church a safe space, while also remaining open and hospitable to all who enter these doors.

What I do know is that we are a people who proclaim and practice resurrection.

What I do know is that we remember who God is and who we are best when we gather together as the body of Christ.

Our hearts may be heavy, but we are not alone. Our spirits may be disquieted, but fear not, Christ will speak the peace we long to hear.

THEREFORE, “Put your trust in God,” reminds the psalmist, “for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God.”

Making Visible the Presence of God

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 17:50:38 GMT

Making Visible the Presence of God

Holy and Undivided Trinity, One God, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

When I went off to college, I was set on being an English major. My dream was to be the next great sports journalist, like Stuart Scott of Sportscenter fame, Dick Schapp from the Sports Reporters, or even the great Grantland Rice before them. That was until I attended an introductory Psychology course.

Dr. Horace Craft, an assistant professor in the department, entered the 100-level course in an unassuming way—almost apologetically taking attendance as the 50-minute class began. However, after some housekeeping, the professor immediately went deep, asking the weary-eyed freshmen and sophomores in the room, “How do you know love exists?” Up until that moment, I am certain I had never wondered that question.

Throughout this first lecture, Professor Craft articulated through curiosity that quite often we cannot measure the invisible forces which guide our very existence. We do not see, hear, smell, or taste love, rather we feel the effects of love not outside but within us. Then, the teacher did something that pushed me outside of my 18-year-old comfort zone as he asked, “How do you know God exists?” His point was that sometimes our five external senses do not pick up on God, even if internally we have felt God’s presence.

By the end of class, I was starting to question my desire to be a sportscaster, as I was far more interested in how we as people navigate our shared reality. I was curious about how we make known invisible forces like love and even more intrigued by how I could share the presence of God, our ultimate reality. Today is all about this very thing.

Today is Trinity Sunday when we celebrate that God is three-in-one and one-in-three—unity in diversity and diversity in unity. We will have 52 Sundays throughout this year. Some will be during seasons like Advent, Christmas, Lent, or Easter, but today is the only occasion when we insert a theological principle into our celebration of the Day of Resurrection. Today is a day when we attempt to name that which cannot be named. It can be quite a fun day to watch preachers crash and burn in the process. Charles, as an Examining Chaplain for our seminary students, I expect you to shout out all the heresies I commit throughout this sermon

Today presents a challenge, because if expressing an articulate answer to questions, like “How do we know love exists?” or “How do we know God exists?” is difficult, then responding to a query such as “How do we know the Trinity exists?” is nearly impossible. Still once a year, this is the mischief traditionally assigned to the shortest-tenured priest at a particular church—notice that Brad skipped town today.

Perhaps answering a question about the Trinity using systematic theology, “a form of theology in which the aim is to arrange religious truths in a self-consistent whole” [1] , perhaps giving a neat answer via academic means is not the purpose of this occasion. Maybe Trinity Sunday is not solely about understanding. It could be that this celebration leads us into something else entirely, like a trip I took the summer before 7th grade.

When I was in Middle School my Episcopal Youth Community went to Six Flags over Georgia. We traveled there for the Episcopal Youth Day at the park. Caravanning early in the morning to Atlanta we arrived before the park was even open to the public. We did this to attend a morning prayer service. At the time, I was only secondarily interested in the Episcopal youth fellowship time. Primarily I was going to Six Flags for the rides, and for one in particular. That late spring was the first time Batman: The Ride was open, and that was at least 85% (okay 95%) of the reason I was there.

Now I had seen commercials on TV for this ride. I had heard the terrible Six Flags jingle playing like a siren song calling me to come ride this ride. And that morning, I was finally in the park—and what was more I was there before the general population was even allowed into the park. There was only one small problem: I had to sit through a church service first. Don’t get me wrong, even back then I loved Church, but this did not feel like a normal Episcopal service. This was as though a bunch of Episcopal youth were doing an impersonation of a Southern Baptist Service. I don’t think there was even a slight connection to the Book of Common Prayer.

In the middle of this service, it became clear that my entire youth group including the chaperones were very uncomfortable with even some of the theology being expressed. Mercifully, the leaders of this “liturgy” told us that the praise band was going to play a few extra songs, but that the rides were opening. Gesturing to my group leaders, I knew this was our chance to excuse ourselves, and make a beeline toward Batman: the Ride. And so, we went.

Even arriving early and moving quickly through the park, we still had to wait a few minutes in line at this popular, new attraction. While we did, I thought about the commercial for the ride, what it might be like, how I might actually feel like Batman flying through the air. Seeing the promotion play back in my mind, envisioning what it might be like to be part of this attraction was one thing; however, experiencing it was quite another.

No amount of time watching the commercials would have prepared me for experiencing the rollercoaster itself. Learning about Batman: the Ride is one thing—riding Batman: the Ride is another. In much the same way, learning about the Trinity is one thing—experiencing the Trinity is another.

Charles, how am I doing on heresies? Only six heresies. Okay, good!

Our task as followers of Jesus, not just on Trinity Sunday, but always, is to live our lives within the ultimate reality that is the Trinity. Yes, it’s important for us to work on our understanding of God. Yes, it’s crucial for us to strive to express true things about God’s nature as diversity-in-unity and unity-in-diversity; however it's our ultimate, our paramount, our utmost aim to dwell in this reality. What does this mean? Let me explain using a show-and-tell method.

Now, next week in Sunday School Surprise (I know I am giving away the surprise) we are going to have a spiritual show-and-tell. I will be away at a wedding, so I am bringing mine today. This is an icon called the Hospitality of Abraham. In it you see three divine visitors who came to see Abraham and Sarah under the Oaks of Mamre. [Pointing to the All Saints Cross] Those oak leaves around our cross remind us of this hospitality. And, in this icon we can see three divine visitors—maybe they are angels, maybe they are messengers of God, maybe they are God themselves.

What’s missing in this icon (and really all icons) is us. But, here at the bottom of the Hospitality of Abraham we see a little box. Some say that a mirror was on the original icon, so that you could literally see yourself within the life of the Trinity. In much the same way, around our cross there is a blank space up at the top left corner. That space indicates where we make up the bit that completes the circle. Without you, without all of us the community is incomplete.

God desires for us to be a part of this circle, to be a part of the community, to be a part of the life of the Trinity. The way that we live into this can be heard in our Gospel lesson this day. We are to be guided by the Spirit, so that we, like the Spirit, glorify God.

What does it mean to glorify God? Karoline Lewis, a Lutheran theologian put it this way, “We are to make visible the presence of God.” [2] We are to make known the unknowable, to make seen the unseeable, to make heard, the unheard. Sounds easy enough.

Experiencing the Trinity is not something that we will always understand. The beauty of the Episcopal Branch of the Jesus Movement is that we collectively encourage holding complexity—living in the both/and of life—not simplifying the Great Mysteries, but engaging mystifying encounters with a three-in-one reality even when it overwhelms or confuses us.

How do we know the Trinity exists? Simply enough, we know the truth of this reality by experiencing it—by seeing the diversity of all things united via the love of God, which holds all things as one. And like a rollercoaster we might tell someone else about it, but they won’t quite get it until they are riding this reality, careening around in the overabundant joy and excitement, zooming through both highs and lows! May we find our place in the unified, diverse community of the Trinity and invite others to be part of this wonderful and sacred mystery. Amen.

[1] Definition from Oxford Language Services Dictionary, https://bit.ly/3O9kDq6 .

[1] Karoline Lewis on Sermon Brainwave Podcast https://www.workingpreacher.org/podcasts/848-holy-trinity-sunday-c-june-12-2022

Words

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 17:28:37 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

June 5, 2022 The Feast of Pentecost, Year C

Acts 2:1-21

“Words”

There’s a famous quote attributed to “Ma” Ferguson, the first female governor of Texas, though who knows if she actually said these words. The year was 1925, and as the story goes, she was arguing against legislation requiring high school students to learn a foreign language before graduating. Her closing argument was, “If English was good enough for Jesus Christ, then it’s good enough for the children of Texas!”

The equivalent of this attitude in the Church are the so-called “King James Only” churches that insist that version of the Bible is the only one that is divinely inspired. We Anglicans can’t poke too much fun. The KJV is a proud part of our heritage along with the Book of Common Prayer. They were both meant to unify the English church and nation during a time of religious turmoil between those who wanted to remain loyal to the pope in Rome and to Roman Catholic worship and those who wanted to see England embrace the changes brought about by the Protestant Reformation. The queen’s solution became known as the Elizabethan Settlement. And one of the primary components of that settlement was the Act of Uniformity of 1558. Under this law, all of England was required to attend church. And everyone was required to worship using the same words from the same Book of Common Prayer. Though they might believe different doctrines, the words would be the same. That compromise continues to shape the way we worship today. We may not always agree on what the words mean, but the words of our worship continue to be a source of unity for Episcopalians and Anglicans around the world.

And it takes a lot of words to worship God in the Episcopal Church. We are wordy people. By my rough estimate the service this morning will include at least 7500 words between the prayers, Bible readings, hymns, and the sermon.

But of course, as much as words have the power to bring us together, they can just as easily separate us. From the beginning Christians have fought over getting the words right, sometimes violently. So maybe words in and of themselves aren’t the best path to Christian unity.

And it’s not just among Christians. Communication among humans has been difficult since the Tower of Babel. That’s the story in the Book of Genesis that seeks to explain how the various languages came into being. The first verse in the passage we read this morning states, “Now the whole earth had one language and the same words.” The people get the idea that if they build a city with a tower in the heavens, that will prevent them from being “scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.” It’s a strange story because it makes it seem that God meddles in human affairs just to make life more difficult. But I think deep down it’s about the way that human arrogance separates us from each other and God. Maybe God saw that a diversity of languages is a good thing. Maybe God saw that when we don’t listen to diverse voices, we run the risk of thinking we can build a “tower to heaven.” And so maybe God confuses the languages not so much as a punishment, but because God delights in diversity and doesn’t want us to put too much stock in words.

After all, words are simply tools for communicating ideas. They are powerful, but it’s so easy to misunderstand each other even we understand the meaning of the words being said. Written communication is even more prone to this problem because it is lacks both tone of voice and body language. And now we live in the age of texts and tweets, which by nature are meant to be short and succinct.

I recently learned that only old-timers like me use correct grammar and punctuation when texting. A friend of mine told me the other day that when she used a period in a text to her college-aged daughter, her daughter asked, “Mom, why are you mad at me?” It just shows that communication can be difficult even within the closest of human relationships. And yet we know that good communication is essential to good relationships. I guess you could say that at some level we all speak different languages. That’s why communication is so hard. And if communication is hard, then relationships are hard. And if relationships are hard, then a loving community of relationships seems downright impossible. Still, that’s what the church aims to be, a loving community. Jesus calls us to be a loving community that values unity within diversity. And that is no easy task. Because if we’re honest we must admit we’re all more comfortable being around people who look, talk, think, and act like us. We feel safer and more comfortable within the confines of our own language and culture. We feel a sense of belonging and security. If you’ve ever traveled to a foreign country and tried to speak the language you know just how mentally tiring it is. And you know how good it feels to come home to familiar American customs. Overcoming language and cultural barriers takes effort. But it’s worth it. Can you imagine how boring American cuisine would be if you could never have pasta, tacos, or sushi? What if we were still eating the same food Elizabeth I ate? I don’t know what that was, but I imagine is was pretty bland. We all appreciate some balance between what is familiar and what is new and different.

Just from a cursory reading of Scripture, it’s pretty clear God delights in diversity. We see this in the way Jesus crossed boundaries to care for Samaritans, Gentiles, women, and people suffering from poverty, disease, and possession. And we definitely see this in the miracle of Pentecost, which we celebrate today.

Jews from around the world had gathered for this major festival in Jerusalem, celebrating the wheat harvest. The disciples of Jesus were there as well. It had been 50 days since Jesus had risen from the dead. That’s when the Holy Spirit descends upon them. They begin speaking in foreign languages. People overhearing think they are drunk. This leads Peter to offer one of my favorite lines in Scripture, “Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o'clock in the morning.” Clearly, he had never been to an SEC football game.

It wasn’t that the Spirit came into being that day. But the Spirit empowered them in a new way to proclaim a message of Good News for all people. The crowd was able to understand the message in their own languages. I think that’s the key to understanding the miracle of Pentecost. The people didn’t suddenly start understanding Aramaic or Greek or whatever language the disciples usually spoke. Instead, the disciples gained the ability to speak the various languages of the people gathered in Jerusalem that day.

I think there is a powerful teaching for today’s church in realizing this. Our typical approach is y’all come. Come learn our language of Elizabethan prayers and 19 ^th century hymns. Come learn when to read from which book and when to bow, stand, kneel, or sit. Come learn what a narthex, sacristy, and chasuble are. Don’t get me wrong I love our tradition. I love our words. We have the best words. But I also want to make sure our words don’t get in the way of the Spirit’s work of creating the church.

We call Pentecost the birthday of the church because it’s the day the Spirit empowered this ragtag group Galilean fisherman to overcome the limits of their own culture and language so they could reach out in love to people from very different backgrounds. And the Spirit enables us to do the same, to overcome our fear, to move out from what’s comfortable and familiar so that the transforming love of Christ may be known by all people.

That’s the kind of radical hospitality the Gospel invites us to offer the world. God sends us forth to speak the language of the people we are meeting on the way. We are the ones who are challenged to leave our comfort zone to share and receive Good News from others. It’s not their job to come learn our language. It’s our job to learn theirs. Though this is a challenge, the Spirit makes it possible.

The work of the Spirit is to unite all people in love. The Spirit doesn’t accomplish this by erasing our differences. That would be offensive to a God who created 8.7 million species of plants and animals on this rock in the middle of space. Instead, the Spirit unites us across difference, enabling us to value one another in all of our quirky uniqueness.

If our primary motivation is fear, we will insulate ourselves into smaller and smaller enclaves of sameness. But if we are motivated by love, we can overcome the obstacles that separate us from each other and from God. Without the Holy Spirit, relationships are hard, community is harder, and the Church is impossible. But with the Holy Spirit, God’s impossible dream of a world of unity within diversity moves beyond the words on the pages of an ancient book and into present reality.

The Holy Spirit empowers us to be in relationship, to be in community, to be the Church. Church history teaches us that we will never find unity in words. We will find unity in the Word made flesh.

"...that they may all be one"

Mon, 30 May 2022 00:26:32 GMT

"We are here to live into a message that isn't an either/or, but is the way of Jesus, the way of love."

Share the Good News

Sun, 22 May 2022 20:53:56 GMT

"Love wins, life wins, resurrection wins, Jesus wins. Who do we invite to share in that good news with us, and who is in your life that will inherit it from you."

God’s Vision, Our Eyes

Sun, 15 May 2022 23:18:54 GMT

Entering the fifth grade I could see it was going to be a good year. Not only did I have a slight crush on my teacher, the young and energetic Ms. Schmidt - who had bangs the size of Texas (this was the 80s after all, and most of my other teachers up to this point had been elderly Catholic nuns) - so, not only did I have an awesome new teacher, my desk was also near the back of the class, out of the spotlight, right next to my childhood best friend, Kevin. I could see it was going to be a good year.

It was going to be a good year, that is, until one day during the second or third week of school, Ms. Schmidt called on me to answer a question on the blackboard (yes, a good old-fashion blackboard - before the days of dry/erase boards and digitized screens). Caught off guard, I squinted hard, but still could not make out what was written on the board. “Uh, I don’t know,” I mumbled. My classmates giggled. It must have been an obviously easy answer.

The next day Ms. Schmidt called my mother in for a meeting where she expressed her concern: “I think Brad might need to have his eyes checked; he’s squinting from the back of the classroom.”

Well that was the beginning of the end. Not only did I have to move to the very front row away from my best friend, I also had to go to the eye doctor. They put burning drops in my eyes that made my vision even worse and then subjected me to a barrage of tests asking silly questions over and over again like “One or two, one or two…..two or three, two or three.” And at the end of it all I received a rather unattractive pair of eyeglasses - some variation of which would be my face’s constant companion for decades to come.

Through the years as I grew taller and taller my lenses grew thicker and thicker. I tried contact lenses and sports goggles, prescription sunglasses and frames made of medical grade acetate (that’s an expensive word for ‘plastic’). I was completely and utterly dependent on these fragile frames and lenses, and I would be nearly legally blind without them. The thought of losing them or having them crushed was slightly terrifying to me. Whenever I travelled I made sure to pack a back-up pair just in case.

This went on like this for most of my early adulthood, until in my early thirties came the proverbial straw that broke the camels back. My prescription had changed enough to where I needed new glasses, and I discovered, to my dismay, that my prescription had become too strong to fit into most prescription sunglasses.

I searched for solutions until I finally became desperate enough to go to the extreme lengths of having a laser cut across my eye to repair my vision. It was not a pleasant process, but at least Lasix would free me from ever thickening lenses. If you have ever had any type of eye surgery, you know how strange it is to feel the pressure building until your eye simply blacks out. For me, it was a lesson in deep breathing and extreme trust of the doctor who had my eyeball pinned down.

Slowly, but surely over the next day or two the haze lifted and my vision began to sharpen. It took me well over a year to stop grabbing for my glasses at my temple. And now in my forties, I find that my arms are not always long enough to accommodate the fine print - presbyopia it’s called, which I suppose is fitting for a presbyter of the church.

Our eyesight is perhaps the richest of all our senses, delicate and complex. Something we sometimes take for granted, until an accident or aging begins to deteriorate what we can see. But far more tragic than the loss of sight, are those moments where we settle for the status quo, where the joie de vie is replaced by the daily grind, and our vision suffers.

Hellen Keller, the first deaf-blind person to receive a bachelor of arts, once said, “It is a terrible thing to see, but have no vision.” How tragic, and how true. A terrible thing to see, but have no vision. The book of Proverbs puts it this way: “Where this is no vision, the people perish.” Vision is essential to life.

Both Peter’s account in the Acts of the Apostles and John’s scene of a new heaven and a new earth in Revelation are remarkable visions of God’s ongoing revelation. Peter, who must see this vision three times to be convinced (if you haven’t noticed, Peter needs repetition for the lesson to sink in); he tells his companions of the voice that told him, “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” Peter then silences his critics with this stunning admission, “Who was I that I could hinder God?” - a good question for us, too, as we squint to see God’s vision. Who are we that we should hinder God?

The seer John, too, is given a vision from God of a new heaven and a new earth. A new creation where the incarnation is a de facto state of being, “See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them as their God; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them.”

This is a vision of a time when God will right all wrongs, reconcile all things unto himself and wipe every tear from our eyes. “Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”

The vision these lessons paint for us are of a creation that is not yet complete. God’s creation is a work-in-progress as God continues to create you and me and all of us together in the image and likeness of Christ - his incarnated presence on this earth.

These lessons cause me to pause and ponder, “How is my vision? Not unlike Peter, what vision is God giving us to startle us awake and into action?”

South African president Nelson Mandela once said, “Action without vision is only passing time; vision without action is merely day dreaming; but vision with action can change the world.”

My friends, God has placed us here to do much more than just pass the time until our vital signs cease. God has called us to much more than merely day dream. God has a vision for us that can transform this world into the Kingdom of God.

Years ago when I was a new priest at Church of the Nativity in Huntsville, there was a young family who came traipsing up to the altar rail during communion. One of the little girls had obviously been sitting still for far too long and was glad to finally be up and about. She bounced up to the altar rail and excitedly asked me, “Can I have two?” It took me a second, but then I realized she wanted seconds, she wanted two Eucharistic wafers.

I had a barrage of thoughts cross my mind during that short moment of deliberation. Would she eat both of them? Would she save one for later or give it to her dog at home? Would it end up on the floor or in the trash? Why did this eager little girl want two? Was she just being greedy? As I weighed the theological and practical pros and cons of whether I should give her one or two hosts I heard myself speak words to her that were not entirely my own. In a type of reflexive Spirit-filled moment I said to her, “Of course you can. The Body of Christ, the Bread of Heaven.” Upon placing the two hosts in her little hands, she promptly turned to her mother and said “Here mommy, I got two” as she handed one to her mother.

I tell you that story because for me, it was an unexpected moment of blessing and abundance. It was a vision of God’s abundance, where there is always enough.

Had I refused to give this little girl two, I would have completely missed out on this encounter, this vision of the Kingdom in our midst.

I wonder whether All Saints might not be a place where we can all “take two” and turn towards our neighbor, extending the grace we’ve just been handed. What vision do you have here of the Kingdom of God in our midst?

God’s vision is more than just a dream. It is a vision that is meant to be seen through our eyes. “See, I am making all things new” says the Alpha and the Omega.” As Jesus once invited his disciples he invites us still today, “Come and see.”

Youth Sunday Sermon 11am

Sun, 08 May 2022 20:00:09 GMT

Youth Sunday Sermon 11am - May 8, 2022 - Sermon by Ms. Phoebe Gentry

Youth Sunday Sermon 8:30a

Sun, 08 May 2022 19:50:33 GMT

Youth Sunday Sermon 8:30a - May 8, 2022 - Sermon by Ms. Clara Rinker

FOMO Thomas

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 00:34:59 GMT

The Rev. Seth Olson

Holy God, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

FOMO—have you heard of this? Fear Of Missing Out

Maybe you are rolling your eyes at such a funny sounding ailment, but it is a real thing. This pervasive anxiety particularly haunts those younger generations living among us. A rock concert sounds awesome, but what if an even more awesome comedian comes to town the same night? Sure, dinner with a friend is cool, but what if another friend is throwing an even cooler party at the same time? Going to church on the Second Sunday of Easter is great, but what about brunch?

All joking aside, fear can be so crippling that it paralyzes our decision-making abilities. If you think taking a walk down the cereal aisle causes mild paralysis by analysis, a younger generation raised on technology feels this whenever they are seemingly disconnected. If we polled all our Millennials and generation Z members about their feelings when they are away from their phones or tablets, I imagine they would name fear as one of the primary emotions and particularly a fear of missing out without these connecting devices. FOMO is real, and it is not anything new.

In today’s Gospel, Thomas had FOMO, but he came by it honestly! Thomas missed the Resurrected Jesus. He had a legitimate case of FOMO. If everyone here but you met Dolly Parton, wouldn’t you be upset? Now imagine it’s not Dolly Parton, but instead the Resurrected Christ! Would you not also have FOMO? And, in this sadness of missing such a profound encounter, would you not ask for proof of what your friends were telling you?

Now Thomas had a track record of asking probing questions. On the night before Jesus died, the teacher assured his disciples that they knew the way to the Father’s house. Thomas wondered what everyone else was thinking, “How can we know the way?” Jesus responded with a beautiful, enigmatic challenge: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus’ words hearken back to when God, from the burning bush, said to Moses, “I AM who I AM.” Meaning: God is presence itself. God who was with us, is with us, will always “be” with us. Jesus subtly dropped this into his response to Thomas’ question, I am the way, the truth, and the life.

In this exchange it was not that Thomas was doubting Jesus, he was curious, like the rest of the disciples, but he was courageous (or foolish) enough to verbalize what they could not. The same thing happened in today’s Gospel story. Thomas voiced something important, not for those disciples, but for all of us who did not see the Risen Lord on that Easter evening. He was wondering something we wonder in our own day, “Is this fake news? Is it real? Can I trust this?”

“Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe,” Thomas exclaimed upon missing Jesus. Thomas was not going to give himself over to the idle tales he was hearing. He wanted to experience this for himself. We may think of this as doubting, but it was more than that.

Thomas appeared unable to give himself fully over to what the others had felt in this Sunday evening communion with the Risen Christ. Unlike the other disciples, Thomas had been by himself during this Resurrection encounter. As Brad reminded us on Easter Day, the Resurrection is something we experience not in isolation, but in communion with one another. So, Thomas spent an entire week in community with the others, and remarkably Jesus showed up.

A week later, that is on another Sunday, another First Day of the Week, another Resurrection Day, Jesus returned. This time the disciples were not locked in fear, even if the doors were shut. Jesus showed himself to all the disciples, and to Thomas in particular. Thomas’ response to seeing the Risen Lord demands our attention.

Thomas had yearned to put his hand in Jesus’ wounds, to touch the marks of these scars, but as soon as he witnessed the Risen Lord that was more than enough. This curious disciple identified who Jesus was, “My Lord and my God.” Since we hear this passage every year and since you faithful ones have showed up on the Second Sunday of Easter (kudos) you may have heard this passage so often that it has lost its provocative impact. Thomas’ words serve as the climax of the entire Good News of Jesus Christ.

If we rewind back to the beginning of John, we will remember that this account begins with a cosmic hymn about who Jesus was. The word who was with God, the word who was God, the word through whom all things came into being. This word that the world did not accept, did not know, did not behold. This one who was the light of the world that came into the world, but was not accepted by the world. These huge claims about who Jesus was were made at the very beginning of the Gospel, they unfold throughout John’s telling, and here at the end of the story they point towards the great hope of this Good News. What is that hope? That someone who was curious about this Jesus person would express the truth of who he was, who he is!

Thomas exclaimed this truth and not because he put his hands in Jesus’ side, but because he beheld the Risen Christ in community. He never got his hand into the side of Jesus, nor did he touch Jesus’ wounds. Instead, Thomas recognized the truth. Jesus is “my Lord and my God.” Thomas was the one who articulated the hope of the entire Gospel account in this simple, provocative, and powerful phrase. To this day, some people even remind themselves of this paramount truth as they receive communion—taking hold of the body of Christ while saying, “My Lord and my God.”

The realization that Thomas had though was not simply for himself. Thomas after all is not this disciple’s real name. His true name was Judas, and no not that Judas. Like how Jesus gave Simon the nickname of Peter, he also gave this Judas the nickname of Thomas. Peter, as you may know means Rock. What does Thomas mean?

Thomas is a nickname, which means the Twin. Some scholars wonder if Thomas was literally a twin and perhaps, he got this nickname as a result. Others wonder if because Judas Iscariot and he shared the same name, maybe Jesus gave this Judas the name Twin to distinguish between the two. There is a more mystic understanding though.

I wonder if Thomas’ twin might not be someone inside the Gospel account, but instead someone outside of it. Someone who is looking into the Good News of Christ Jesus, even someone who is hearing these words two thousand years later, in a completely different language, and halfway across the globe. I wonder if you might be Thomas’ twin. I wonder what you share in common with this disciple.

Thomas was fearful of missing out.

Thomas wanted to see the evidence before he believed.

Thomas was curious.

Does this sound familiar? Does this sound like you?

Thomas’ understanding that Jesus was Lord and God served as the climax of the whole Gospel—and you having this insight yourself is the whole point of this story. "These are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name."

You are—we are the other half of this twinship. Whether you are being baptized this morning, like Rowan or you are being welcomed as a new member, like so many wonderful folks during our New Member Recognition; whether you are brand new to All Saints or you have been here your whole life—all of us are part of this story.

We yearn to be witnesses of Resurrection in our lives. When we are not part of this community of the Risen Lord we may have FOMO, but for good reason. Thomas doubted in fearful isolation, but he believed in beloved community. He is an inquisitive example for us—we who yearn to take hold of the Risen Christ not in our hands, but in our hearts. Our reception of Jesus as Lord and God is the climax of the good news. May we behold Jesus in beloved community, just like Thomas did. Amen.

Easter Sunday

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 01:36:07 GMT

Easter Sunday Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

Saturday Easter Vigil

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 14:37:54 GMT

Why Do You Look For The Living Among The Dead?

The Rev. Seth Olson

April 16, 2022

Note: This sermon was preached before the Great Alleluia of Easter after the Vigil lessons were read.

All-loving God, let my words be your words and when my words are not your words, let your people be wise enough to know the same. Amen.

It’s dark in here, isn’t it? So dark! It is dark, but certainly it has been darker.

“In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep.” Before God said anything, Genesis tells us, it was dark—darkness covered the face of the deep. So, it is dark, but certainly it has been darker..

During the Exodus God’s cloud by day was dark coverage—enough even to enshroud the People of Israel as they escaped Pharaoh. At night that cloud became a pillar of fire lighting up a path on dry ground through the Red Sea. Still, it had to be dark walking between the walls of waves on either side. It is dark, but certainly it has been darker.

Darkness got no mention in what we heard from Isaiah, but it certainly lurked in the background. Not darkness, like poor vision from lack of light, but something much more disturbing. The prophet extended God’s invitation—a good thing. However, the prophet offered welcome because God’s People had been without. They had been hungry. They had been thirsty. They had been yearning for God. They had been held captive by enemies, by themselves, by a spiritual darkness. It is dark, but certainly it has been darker.

Like Isaiah, our Fourth Lesson shed light upon the darkness of ignorance that comes from a lack of knowing God’s Wisdom. This Wisdom cried out, she yearned to be heard—to be sought after more than gold and silver. For with her comes justice and flourishing relationship with God, with neighbor, and with self. Without her, life is lacking—it’s like living without the light. It is dark, but certainly it has been darker.

Wisdom though is not vital for living—enlightening yes, essential no—but we must have breath! Without it, we perish—we become like the beginning of Ezekiel’s lesson from this night. What a dark and dry time it was in that valley of the bones without God’s breath! It is dark, but certainly it has been darker.

These lessons speak to us about darkness. Funny, right? It’s amusing because so often we associate the Christian Faith with the brightness of the noonday sun. It’s like my favorite Easter dad-joke: Tomorrow’s forecast is a 100% chance of Son rise—S-O-N rise. The popular perception of Christianity is that it is about this noontime walk with God—some say Church and our Christian Faith is about all our shiny bits, the put-together parts of us, our Easter-Sunday-morning-best selves, and yet, so much of these stories and so much of our growth happens in the dark.

Yes, it has been said, we are Easter people, but you specifically are an Easter Vigil person. You and me, we are people who sit in the dark. Whatever brought you to church on this most holy night, you are here sitting in the dark. And, it makes me wonder, if you are willing to not only sit in this darkness, but also to be in moments of spiritual darkness. Challenging moments within yourself—tough times with your family, friends, neighbors, strangers, and even God.

Often it is in dark moments, these moments before the in-breaking light, that we experience the greatest gifts that come from our relationship with God. This is not always easy to see, but our walk with God is strengthened in deep darkness. There we find courage, compassion, community, curiosity, creativity—gifts we would not realize if we always stayed in the perceived safety of the light.

It really is so dark in here, which reminds me of an Easter service several years ago when I was serving at St. John’s in Decatur. There we had a morning Easter Vigil and in the predawn half-glow on that new day, the Organist, a man named Foster Bailey, missed the stairs that led into the side of the church. Instead, he nearly walked into the columbarium. It was funny because he was so disoriented at that time of day, but I think Foster had it right.

Walking into our dark church on this night is so startling. With only the light of the Paschal Candle it feels as though we are walking into a tomb precisely because that is what we are doing—we are walking into the grave of Christ Jesus. Now, the thought of being stuck in a tomb makes my skin crawl.

The closest experience I have had to being buried alive is going caving. Those trips beneath the earth were riveting. Especially, when everyone in the group would turn out their headlamps and stop speaking for a moment or two. It was disorienting down there—like in here.

On those trips, a worry would wash over me, “What if I get trapped here? What if some rocks fall at this precise moment? What if stones collapse over me, like the Red Sea washing over Pharoah’s army?” Worse still is the thought of getting trapped not in a cave, but in a place of deeper darkness—a place without the true light, like where God’s people were when the Prophets issued God’s call. That is a place where many of us have been, maybe some of us feel like that’s where we are now. A place with hunger, thirst and yearning, but without wisdom, breath, and life. This place of darkness is where we wait.

We await a moment so passionately longed for by us and by all. A time when the darkness not outside of us, but inside of us will be no more. A second when any semblance of separation is smashed. An era when evil ceases to exist. A day when death is vanquished. An age bathed in radiant light. That is what we await, sitting in the shadows.

And, how remarkable it is during this service, coming into this completely dark place with only the light of Christ leading us! Slowly that light spreads, but even just that one true light is enough to keep the darkness away, enough that the darkness cannot overcome it, enough that the darkness comprehendeth it not.

But, for a moment more it is dark—in this church—in this tomb. And, if we were to blow out all our candles, and maybe you need to if you are holding a puddle of wax at this point, then it might be almost as dark as it ever has been. As dark as it was on Maundy Thursday when the disciples betrayed, denied, and abandoned Jesus. As dark as it was on Good Friday when at noon Jesus hung on the cross and the light of the sun failed to shine. As dark as it was when Joseph and Nicodemus laid Jesus down and the tomb was sealed.

It is dark, but certainly it has been darker. And, in this dark silence, if we listen closely, we will hear the footsteps of the women approaching. And, messengers of the true light await, wondering, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?”

Good Friday

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 14:28:26 GMT

Good Friday Sermonby The Rev. Charles Youngson

Maundy Thursday

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 14:24:30 GMT

Maundy Thursday Sermon by The Rev. Brad Landry

Palm Sunday

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 21:34:40 GMT

The Rev. Charles Youngson

Palm Sunday April 10, 2022

Luke 22:14-23:56

One of the places we visited during my trip to the Holy Land years ago was the Garden of Gethsemane. Today it consists of an enclosed grove of olive trees on a hillside called the Mount of Olives that overlooks the city of Jerusalem. We were given some time to sit in the Garden by ourselves. We knew that we would soon be walking the way of the cross through the Old City of Jerusalem. And we were asked to spend some quiet moments reflecting on what Jesus went through in that same place on the night before he died.

I sat there pondering that phrase so familiar to Christian speech: “Jesus died for my sins.” For some, this statement is the litmus test for being a Christian. “Do you believe that Jesus died for your sins?” people ask. I suppose they are looking for a simple yes or no answer. But if we were to ask, what do you mean? How would they respond? How do we answer that question for ourselves? Sitting in that Garden on that hot July day, I felt that I knew more deeply than I had before what those words mean. I began to see more clearly than ever the way that sins of the world and the suffering of the world are interconnected. As I imagined the anguish Jesus was experiencing, I began to pray more fervently than ever for forgiveness of my sins and the sins of the world. I began to pray for an end to the suffering of the world as well.

On the one hand, Jesus’ suffering was the result of the sins of a handful of religious and political leaders in Jerusalem around A.D. 33. On the other hand, his suffering and death were the result of a web of disobedience that began with that first act of rebellion in a different garden, the Garden of Eden. Now we find that we are all in this mess together. The sins of the world led to the suffering and death of Jesus.

One of the things that sets Luke’s portrait of Jesus apart from those of the other Gospel writers is that Luke frequently mentions Jesus praying. In the Garden that night Jesus not only prays but also urges his disciples to pray. He prays, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” The cup he mentions is a symbol of suffering. Jesus was fully human, and like any human, he did not want to suffer and die unnecessarily. If there were some other way God’s will could be done, he hoped that it might be so. But in the end, he was willing to give himself up to death because he trusted in his Father’s love for him and for the world.

He also knew that suffering and death would come for his disciples. And so twice he urges them saying, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial." It’s interesting that the word translated “trial” here can also be translated “temptation.” So, in this scene in the Garden, we hear echoes of the Lord’s Prayer. We hear Jesus say, in effect, “thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” And we hear him tell the disciples to pray, “Lead us not into temptation.” You may know that some versions of the Lord’s Prayer render this phrase, “Save us from the time of trial.”

And so we have two prayers offered in the Garden. Jesus asks for this cup of suffering to pass him by. And the disciples, we hope, pray that they might be saved from the time of trial. But are the prayers “answered?” If we think that prayer is only about asking God to grant our requests, then we must admit that sometimes the answer to our prayers is “no” or at least “not yet.” Though he is the Son of God, the cup of suffering does not pass him by. Nor are his disciples saved from the time of trial. Judas will betray Jesus, and Peter will deny him three times. The rest of the disciples will remain at a safe distance out of fear.

So, does Jesus give up praying? Absolutely not. Even as he hangs on the cross, he prays, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” Wow! He does not pray for vengeance to come upon those who did this to him. He does not pray for himself at all. He does not even suffer in silence. He prays for God to forgive the very ones who are crucifying him. Then he assures the repentant thief that he too will be in paradise. And finally his dying words are themselves a prayer. "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." His dying breath is a prayer of trust and obedience to his Father.

Often, we think of prayer as a last resort, an act of desperation. “Well, I’ve tried everything else. All I can do now is pray.” But prayer should be our first resort and our last resort. Prayer is about communication with God. In a deeper sense, it is about communion with God. And just as communication is the foundation of any relationship, so prayer is the foundation of our relationship with God.

We can learn a lot by studying how Jesus prays. What we learn from Jesus’ prayers is that we should ask God for those good things that we want and need. But we should also realize that sometimes God says “no” to our requests, so that God can say a bigger “yes” to something else.

Children ask their parents for many things. Sometimes parents have to say “no,” not because they don’t love their children, but precisely because they do love their children, and they know that saying “yes” will not serve their best interests. But when we receive a “no” from God, that should not discourage us from continuing to pray. Prayer is about offering ourselves in humble obedience to God, so that God’s will might be done. And prayer does change things. It opens our awareness to the power and presence of God in our midst so that we might be part of God’s work of transforming the world through love.

In the end Jesus dies as he lived, praying to his heavenly Father for all humankind, not just his friends, but his enemies, too. He calls us on to pray in times of prosperity and times of adversity. Prayer will not necessarily suspend the laws of nature. Pray anyway. Prayer will not protect us from every misfortune. Pray anyway. Prayer will not keep us from dying. Pray anyway. Pray because you love yourself. Pray because you love your neighbor. Pray because you love God. And if you’re struggling to love yourself, your neighbor, or your God, pray anyway. And trust that Jesus is praying on your behalf just as he did on the day he died for the sins of the world.

The Fragrance of Faith

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 19:22:34 GMT

Mary took a pound of costly perfume, anointed Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair.

If you feel like you’ve heard this story before, you’re not wrong. The question, however, might be “Which version of the story do you recall?” You see, a very similar scene occurs in all four canonical gospels. Only the Gospel of John, however, names this otherwise unidentified woman as Mary of Bethany (the sister of Martha and Lazarus).

Though each of the gospel writers agree that at some point a woman anointed Jesus, each has a unique perspective on this unforgettable story. In Matthew and Mark, for instance, the woman anoints Jesus’ head with costly oil. In Luke and John, however, it is his feet that are anointed. In all instances this woman’s lavish gesture elicits a sense of scandal amongst those gathered at the table with Jesus.

Interestingly enough, only in the Gospel of Luke is this woman identified as “a woman of the city, a sinner,” and only Luke records that she wet his feet with her very tears. No other gospels mention those details.

There are striking similarities, and startling differences in each evangelist’s telling of this tale. So, what are we to make of this mysterious woman and her extravagant act of faith?

Well, were we to bend over backwards to force these four versions to harmonize, we might insist that perhaps Jesus was anointed on more than one occasion. With all these conflicting reports, surely they’re not all talking about the same scene, right? One time it was his feet, another time it was his head, and it happened at two different locations. Mystery solved, case closed, right?

Well that’s one possibility. Possible, but not probable.

The multiple attestation of this story in all four gospels is no coincidence. And, ironically, the fact that they each report the scene slightly differently actually validates the likelihood that this was a very historical event, witnessed by many eyes.

For example, if each of us were to witness such a memorable scene, and each of us were asked to recall said scene some years later, we, too, might remember the particular details quite differently. In some sense, we all see what we want to see, we each see through our own bias and preference. We might each come up with our own version of the same event. This is most likely the case of what has happened here with the four gospel writers. They each knew the story of the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet, and they each retell it as they remember.

The point here is not to stumble on the differences, or worse, to distort them into harmony. The point is to listen in, contrast and compare, be attentive to what each gospel writer wants us to notice about the anointing of Jesus by this woman. If this is to be anything other than a mildly interesting cross-referencing of texts, we’re going to have to sit in on the conversation and pay attention to where it might be speaking to us today.

First of all, we should note that the Gospel of John identifies the woman as Mary of Bethany, and John is the only gospel that identifies her as the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet. Now Jesus is quite familiar with Mary’s family, and they are friends. In fact, in the scene immediately preceding this passage, Jesus had just raised Lazarus (Mary’s brother) from the grave. It had been Mary who had warned Jesus of the stench, seeing that her brother had already been in the tomb four days. As the venerable old King James Version puts it, “He stinketh.” (try teaching that lesson to middle-school boys)

We might also note the timeframe, which John provides as a preface to the story. Jesus was slowly, but surely making his way to Jerusalem, and the Passover was a mere six days away - the same Passover when his arrest, trial, and crucifixion will occur. Already the religious authorities had been plotting how to put Jesus to death, and this story begins the ticking time bomb of Holy Week, the last days of Jesus.

It would seem that here in this scene, the stench of death still hangs in the air. Jesus, fortifying himself for his own death in a few days time, knows that Mary knows what is likely to happen when he goes to Jerusalem: “She bought it,” he says, “so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.” As they dine, death is very clearly on his mind.

And Judas - the treasurer for this band of disciples - Judas protests saying, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” Ah yes, good ‘ole pragmatic Judas, always looking out for the little guy. He’s the perfect example of how we all, from time to time, use the very best of intentions to justify our greed.

Whether Judas is being pragmatic, deceitful, or resentful we cannot readily determine from the text. The gospel writer certainly editorializes his distrust of Judas into his work, knowing in retrospect that Judas betrayed Jesus, and probably even stole from the common purse.

I wonder, however, if we were to take out John’s suspicion of Judas’ character, how many of us might identify with his pragmatism. Is his protest not prudent? Are we not called to be wise stewards of our treasure? Are we not, after all, reasonable, sensible people who don’t get too carried away with our faith? Are we not Episcopalians?

So, on one side of the table we observe a pragmatic, or resentful, or deceitful Judas contrasted with the extravagant generosity of Mary.

Mary, who knew so much about what Jesus had done for her family. Mary, who was accustomed to sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening attentively in the posture of a true disciple. Mary, who knew the one thing necessary to follow Jesus. Mary, who followed Jesus when others told her to go back to the kitchen. Have we somehow missed that the typical order of the world is being inverted as this holy woman anoints God’s messiah?

Consider how, historically, it was left to prophets and priests, popes and prelates to anoint and crown a monarch. But here we see, in the kingdom of God, a not-so-subordinate woman, in this simple act of extravagant faith, anointing Jesus - not merely for an earthly throne - but for his death, resurrection, and ascension as Christ the King. Mary’s singular act of devotion, her anointing of God’s messiah is costly in nearly every way. Not only does she pour out a costly perfume, she also risks her reputation, risks ridicule, risks embarrassing herself or Jesus. Everything about this anointing is costly.

It might cause us to pause and ponder, “What do I hold so precious?” What costs a year’s wages that we’d be willing to pour out for the sake of Jesus? How might we pour out our wealth in an act of faith? What is it that we might be willing to risk?

In this story, John invites us into a remarkably intimate scene; an act that is so authentically whole-hearted that it causes some to squirm. It is a touching scene as Mary literally touches the feet of Jesus. She literally pours out her treasure for the person she treasured most.

I wonder: today as we recline, stand, or kneel at table with Jesus, what is it we are willing to pour out? What are we willing to risk to show our love for Jesus? This is not some theoretical question to be dropped at the door. This is a real world, real life matter of how we love Jesus in how we love one another. The liturgical offertory is not just a hymn or beautiful anthem by the choir, it is not just the presentation of monies, bread, and wine to be blessed in the Eucharist. The Offertory is nothing short of our invitation to pour ourselves out in an act of faith.

Such an extravagant act of love can’t help but permeate the air, filling the room with the fragrance of faith. As we gather, once again, at the table with Jesus what is it that you will pour out at the feet of our Lord?