Trusting in the Holy Spirit

Standing Committee Updates and Meeting

2012-02-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

Standing Committee and the Trustees met today at St. Michael and All Angels. Trustees were given an update on Camp Stoney by Canon McNellis (The Summer program is being planned and implemented). Please know that Stoney is alive, well and thriving.

Updates were given on properties in El Paso, Roswell, South Valley and parts throughout the Diocese. Dean Goodman led the meeting that included the approval of Bishops in New York and Haiti.

Canon Colin addressing the group

Dean Funk from Las Cruces

Dean Tuton from Hope in Desert

Diane Butler emphasizing her point

Dean Goodman adjourning

Pictures from Council

2012-01-31T21:39:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council

2012-01-31T21:29:00.001-07:00

St. Michael and All Angels hosted Diocesan Council today. Members from across the state gathered for a productive and informative meeting.

The Highpoint was Eucharist. The voices of Fr. Tom, Cathy Bailey and Fred Winter gave life to the readings.

The Bishop, the Treasurer, Deans, and Council Members gave reports. Details were given on the Homeless Initiative, Bosque Center progress, and many activities in the Rio Grande. For details on the proceedings, please check back this week

A Joyous Night (And Weekend) at St. Andrew's

2012-01-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

A beautiful time...

Excitement and the hope filled the air at St. Andrew's for the installation of Fr. Plummer. The Bishop and I knew it would be a beautiful night as we walked out of the hotel and God painted a masterpiece sunset in the SE New Mexico sky.

The Charge: "We have come together to welcome Dale Plummer, who has been chosen to serve as Rector of St. Andrew's

As we entered the Church, the altar guild was busy, Deacon Bud was preparing the Altar Book, community members were busy setting up for the reception. I have posted images of the evening so that you can share in this joyous event.

Deacon Bud is going strong

Fr. Dale

St. Andrew's is truly a gem in the Diocese

The Chair for the Bishop

The Bible presented to Fr. Dale

The Body of Christ prepared by Ms. Plummer

Dale, take this bread and wine, and be among us to break the Bread and bless the Cup.

Dean Tom

Fr. Steve who selflessly served St. Andrews and Fr. Maurice Geldert (Artesia)

A true servant of Christ - Rev. Judith Burgess

The St Andrew Choir

Kensey, Fr. Dale and Sharon. Thomas is back in Kansas at School

I think this is the way you point a camera

Mr. and Ms. Beaty

A shining story of dedication to our Youth.

Sharon Plummer is a wonderful presence

As we departed, there was a jump in our step and a smile on our faces. This place is growing and exciting!

If anyone questions or asks how the Episcopal Church is doing - point them toward Roswell and St. Andrew's. A beloved Rector, new people are joining the congregation, a vibrant youth group (more tomorrow!) and a community centered in Christ. God has chosen this place as one point for the Kingdom to break into our Diocese.

If you are ever in the area, stop by, you will be amazed (p.s. invite someone to go with you).

The Vista for January 24th - Focus on Roswell

2012-01-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

The Vista

January 24, 2012

Sharing Your Events with the Diocese

The Diocesan newspaper wants stories and photos of your events to share with the other members of the Diocese. Please ask those with writing and photo talents in your congregations to assist you in spreading the good news of your church with the rest of us.

Wondering what’s going on in the Diocese?

Check out the Diocesan Blog. Canon Daniel Gutierrez is posting daily to keep the Diocese up to date on what’s up all around the Diocese. Visit the blog at http://trustingintheholyspirit.blogspot.com/ .

diocesan dates

At the end of In the Loop this week, please find a schedule for January and February incorporating meetings for Diocesan meetings, and visitations by the Bishop and CATOs, as well as Church and secular holidays.

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE 2012

Palm Sunday, April 1

Church of the Holy Faith, Santa Fe – VONO (8:30, 10:45)

Trinity on the Hill, Los Alamos – McNELLIS (8, 10:30)

St. Mary’s, ABQ – GUTIERREZ (8, 10:30)

Monday, April 2

Clergy Quiet Day/Retreat, St. Mark’s on the Mesa – ABQ

Tuesday, April 3

Mass of Collegiality – Cathedral, ABQ (10)

Mass of Collegiality – St. Francis on the Hill, El Paso (10) (Lamb)

Maundy Thursday, April 5

St. Andrew’s, Las Cruces – VONO

Holy Spirit, El Paso – McNELLIS

Cathedral, ABQ - GUTIERREZ

Good Friday, April 6

St. James’, Mesilla Park – VONO (Noon)

St. Paul’s, Marfa – McNELLIS

St. Francis’, Rio Rancho – GUTIERREZ

Easter Sunday, April 8

Cathedral, ABQ – VONO

St. Andrew’s, Roswell – McNELLIS

St. Michael’s and All Angels – GUTIERREZ (9, 11:15)

Clergy News:

The Rev. Guy Mackie of St. John’s, Farmington, has published a book addressing the foundational reasons for fracture among Christians, and providing a blessing path toward healing. The book, titled Communio: Meditations on Reconciliation among the Brotherhood, is available at: https://www.createspace.com/3726173

CLERGY Events:

Friday, January 27, 6:30 p.m.: The Rev. Dale Plummer will be installed as rector of St. Andrew’s, Roswell, New Mexico.
The Rev. Mark Lake will be installed as Vicar of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Tucumcari at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25.
The Rev. Dan Tuton will be installed as Rector of Hope in the Desert during the morning worship on Sunday, March 25.

SNOW SLAM 2012! February 18-20

Please RSVP to 505-983-5610

Registrations for Snow Slam 2012! Should be sent to

BERYL ZIMMERMAN, CAMP STONEY

7855 OLD SANTA FE TRAIL

SANTA FE, NM 87505

The Rio Grande Youth Task Force invites all our 6-12th graders to find your way to Santa Fe for a weekend of play, music, prayer and snow (hopefully). Climb (or descend) the mountain to grow in fellowship and faith with youth from around the diocese. Sunday at Snow Slam is usually a day on the mountain: as in the past you can ski or snowboard, or learn to ski or snowboard. New this year is an option to enjoy a crazy Scavenger Hunt game in Santa Fe. Registration fee is $100 per person, and this does not include ski/snowboard costs, details on the registration form. A flier and registration form were attached to last week’s In the Loop.

Bishop’s School for Ministry

Orientation

On Saturday, January 28, at 11:00 am there will be an orientation program for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance. This orientation will provide an overview of each course and test the electronic systems for participants. A lunch will follow.

Winter Session Classes

7:30-9:00 Biblical Greek, taught by Professor Warren Smith

9:15-12:15 Pauline Epistles, taught by Canon Richard Valantasis

1:00-4:00 Anglican and Episcopal Liturgy, taught by Dean Mark Goodman

Summer Intensive Courses (5 days each)

Preaching (to be announced)

History and Theology of the Early Church (Richard Valantasis)

Cost

$200 per course for ordained clergy and laity for continuing education credits

$50 per course for laity who wish only to audit the course

No charge for postulants or candidates.

Clergy may apply for diocesan Continuing Education funds. Scholarships are also available. Contact Canon Daniel Gutierrez (dgutierrez@dioceserg.org).

Make check payable to Diocese of the Rio Grande, note Bishop’s School

Orientation for the program will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, at the Cathedral of St. John, 3^rd and Silver streets, for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance. Contrary to rumor, the classes provided through the Bishop’s School for Ministry are not mandatory for Deacons. Information on the upcoming classes has been transmitted via email.

Registration

You may register online by sending an e-mail to school@dioceserg.org or by calling Toye Robertson at the Bosque Center (505-881-0636). Checks need to be mailed to the Bosque Center attn: Toye Robertson, 6400 Coors Blvd NW, Alb. NM 87120. Upon receipt of payment, participants will receive the syllabus for the course(s) and instructions for the electronic participation.

Lay Licensing

Lay Licensing for LEM/Chalice Bearers will be continued from the previous year for licensees only. Other lay licensed positions are not extended, and are on hold as the Commission on the Ministry of the Baptized continues to develop the criteria and materials for trainings for other licensed positions. These include: Lay Pastors, Lay Preachers, Lay Catechists have not been extended.

Visiting the Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour.

Tuesdays are Staff Meeting Days, and those who need to visit on Tuesdays please make advance arrangements to visit the office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address

The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center

6400 Coors Boulevard NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

Convention Eucharist Photo

The photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule

Bishop Vono, in his first twelve months as Bishop, has visited nearly all the congregations in the Diocese. This probably is the first time a sitting bishop has achieved this goal. The visitation schedule is being prepared for the coming year on a more humane level of activity, and the Bishop expects to visit his congregations on an eighteen-month rotation to provide our bishop with opportunities to recover from his hectic schedule.

Diocesan Dates 2012

(Please Note: All Dates and Times are subject to change. Please contact Ms. Mary Jewell at mjewell@dioceserg.org to verify information as needed)

Key

Diocesan Meetings (Diocesan House unless otherwise indicated)

Major Episcopal Holidays

Major Secular Holidays

Diocesan/Deanery Events

Official CATO Visits (Gutierrez)

Official CATO Visits (McNellis)

Official Bishop Visits

January

27^th – Installation (Plummer), St. Andrew’s,

Roswell

29^th – Church of the Holy Mount, Ruidoso

29^th – St. Matthias, Carrizozo

29^th – St. Andrew’s, Roswell

31^st – Diocesan Council

31^st – Camp Stoney Alumni Meet/Greet, Bosque

Center

February

1^st – Standing Committee

1^st – Trustees of the Property

5^th- St. Stephen’s, Espanola

5^th – 6^th – Clergy Women’s Retreat (Taos)

8^th – Commission on Ministry

9^th – Commission on Ministry

10^th – DRG Leadership Retreat (St. Michael’s

and All Angels, ABQ)

12^th – St. John’s, Alamogordo

12^th – Church of the Holy Cross, Edgewood

12^th – St. Paul’s/Peace, Las Vegas

14^th – Investment Board

15^th – Budget and Audit

18^th – Treasurer’s Workshop, Epiphany, Socorro

18^th – 20^th – Snow Slam, Camp Stoney

19^th – St. John’s, Farmington

21^st – Shrove Tuesday

21^st – Epiphany, Socorro

21^st – St. Thomas of Canterbury, ABQ

21^st – St. Francis’, Rio Rancho

22^nd – Ash Wednesday

22^nd – Cathedral of St. John, ABQ

22^nd – St. Mark’s on the Mesa, ABQ

22^nd – St. Bede’s, Santa Fe

25^th – Installation (Lake), St. Michael’s,

Tucumcari

26^th – Christ Church, Hillsboro

26^th – St. Paul’s, Truth or Consequences

26^th – St. Paul’s, Artesia

Heading to Roswell for Fr. Dale

2012-01-26T20:42:00.003-07:00

The Bishop is headed to St. Andrews for the installation of Fr. Dale.

Fr. Dale’s installation as Rector of St. Andrew’s ceremony and celebration will be this coming Friday at 6:30pm. Bishop Vono and Canon Gutierrez will be here to celebrate. Please come formally welcome our new Rector!

Check back for pictures from the installation

The Conversion of St. Paul - January 25th

2012-01-25T21:01:00.002-07:00

Collect of the Day: The Conversion of St. Paul

O God, who by the preaching of your apostle Paul have caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world: Grant, we pray, that we, having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, may show ourselves thankful to you by following his holy teaching; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Acts 9:1-22 (NRSV)

Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any who belonged to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he was going along and approaching Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’ He asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ The reply came, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But get up and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.’ The men who were travelling with him stood speechless because they heard the voice but saw no one. Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. For three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

Now there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, ‘Ananias.’ He answered, ‘Here I am, Lord.’ The Lord said to him, ‘Get up and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul. At this moment he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.’ But Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints in Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who invoke your name.’ But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is an instrument whom I have chosen to bring my name before Gentiles and kings and before the people of Israel; I myself will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.’ So Ananias went and entered the house. He laid his hands on Saul and said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.’ And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength.

For several days he was with the disciples in Damascus, and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’ All who heard him were amazed and said, ‘Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem among those who invoked this name? And has he not come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?’ Saul became increasingly more powerful and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Messiah.

Our Friends at St. Michael Promoting Events

2012-01-25T20:46:00.003-07:00

Moving closer to Construction

2012-01-25T20:45:00.004-07:00

The Groundbreaking was an enormous success, we have demolished the existing structure, the permits are in hand and we are ready to accept bids! We are progressing toward the earthwork portion of construction. We hope to have tractors rolling onto the ground by the first week in February. Keep checking for pictures and updates on construction.

As you can see, we are busy selecting flooring and fixtures!

Adobe Training

2012-01-24T20:04:00.002-07:00

In preparation of the online courses and distance learning for the Bishop's School for Ministries - a test run on Adobe Connect.

Warren our Greek Instructor - Translating Greek and using Adobe!

Course Instructors, the Co-Chair of the Commission on Ministry, and the Bishop are studiously learning how to "log on" and participate.

We are venturing into new and exciting places. Rio Grande is blazing new trails in prayer, education and community. We are well on our way!

Images of the Bosque Center

While training on Adobe Connect, we are blessed with the joy of glancing outside the windows of the great room and watching geese fly overhead, the snow on the Sandia Mountains and the beauty of this place we call the Bosque Center. It is difficult to focus on a computer screen.

The Vista for January 18th

2012-01-22T20:44:00.001-07:00

Highlighting our Fr. Stockton

Clergy Events:

Friday, January 27, 6:30pm: The Rev. Dale Plummer will be installed as rector of St. Andrew’s, Roswell, New Mexico.

The Rev. Mark Lake will be installed as Vicar of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Tucumcari at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25.

The Rev. Dan Tuton will be installed as Rector of Hope in the Desert during the morning worship on Sunday, March 25.

Sharing Your Events with the Diocese

SNOW SLAM 2012! February 18-20

Please RSVP to 505-983-5610

Registrations for Snow Slam 2012! Should be sent to

BERYL ZIMMERMAN, CAMP STONEY

7855 OLD SANTA FE TRAIL

SANTA FE, NM 87505

Bishop’s School for Ministry

Winter Session Classes

7:30-9:00 Biblical Greek, taught by Professor Warren Smith

9:15-12:15 Pauline Epistles, taught by Canon Richard Valantasis

1:00-4:00 Anglican and Episcopal Liturgy, taught by Dean Mark Goodman

Summer Intensive Courses (5 days each)

Preaching (to be announced)

History and Theology of the Early Church (Richard Valantasis)

Cost

$200 per course for ordained clergy and laity for continuing education credits

$50 per course for laity who wish only to audit the course

No charge for postulants or candidates.

Clergy may apply for diocesan Continuing Education funds. Scholarships are also available. Contact Canon Daniel Gutierrez (dgutierrez@dioceserg.org).

Make check payable to Diocese of the Rio Grande, note Bishop’s School

Contrary to rumor, the classes provided through the Bishop’s School for Ministry are not mandatory for Deacons. Information on the upcoming classes has been transmitted via email.

Registration

You may register online by sending an e-mail to school@dioceserg.org or by calling Toye Robertson at the Bosque Center (505-881-0636). Checks need to be mailed to the Bosque Center attn: Toye Robertson, 6400 Coors Blvd NW, Alb. NM 87120. Upon receipt of payment, participants will receive the syllabus for the course(s) and instructions for the electronic participation.

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule

The Visitation Schedules

Bishop Vono is scheduled to visit the following:

January 22 - Church of the Holy Family, Santa Fe

January 22 - St. Thomas the Apostle, Santa Fe

January 29 - Holy Mount, Ruidoso

January 29 - St. Matthias, Carrizozo

The Canons to the Ordinary are scheduled to visit:

The Rev. Canon Daniel Gutierrez

January 29 - St. Andrew's, Roswell

Lay Licensing

Visiting the Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour.

Tuesdays are Staff Meeting Days, and those who need to visit on Tuesdays please make advance arrangements to visit the office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address

The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center

6400 Coors Boulevard NW

Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

Convention Eucharist Photo

The photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us

Conclusion of the Aspirancy Weekend

2012-01-21T19:56:00.001-07:00

The Aspirancy Weekend concluded Saturday evening. Those in attendance found it uplifting, tiring and spirit filled. Those discerning a call to ministry shared their their call and life in Christ as we gathered at St. Thomas of Canterbury. Aspirants represented St. Mary's in Albuquerque, Epiphany in Socorro, St. Thomas of Canterbury and Holy Spirit in Gallup.

The weekend began Friday evening with Evening Prayer, introductions and a conversation on the meaning of ministry.

We concluded with a traditional Greek Dinner of Spanakopita prepared by Canon Valantasis and a Greek Salad masterfully tossed and layered by Diane Butler.

Jean Kirby and Nancy Worthen

The Wonderful Dinner

Saturday Morning began with Morning Prayer and we progressed through 6 hours of interviews

Fr. Brian Taylor of the Commission on Ministry

Deacon Doug Blyle and Jennifer

Joe Alarid on the far left and Deacon Judith Jenkins

Early entry aspirant discussing the road to ordination

Janet Carlson discussing the life, role and journey of Clergy Spouses. She gave an amazing presentation.

The Weekend concluded at 5 on Saturday with discussion and prayers for the Aspirants.

Many thanks to all who participated.

Aspirants:

Monica Whitaker, Athena Gassoumis, Jack Blenk, and Cynthia Caruso

Participants:

Bishop Michael Vono, Canon Richard Valantasis, Rev. Lin Lilley (Co-Chair of the COMB), Hon. Joe Alarid (Co-Chair of the COMB), Diane Butler, Jean Kirby, Rev. Brian Taylor, Rev. Canon Carole McGowen, Nancy Worthen, Rev. Deacon Judith Jenkins, and Dean Mark Goodman,

Images of Canterbury

2012-01-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

Our Deepest Thanks to Rev. Canon Carole McGowan for hosting the Aspirancy Weekend at St. Thomas of Canterbury. Gratitude to Diane Butler for all the work and hospitality and to Rev. Lin Lilley for the attention given. Stop into this beautiful sanctuary located on University across from the University of New Mexico

Evening Prayer

Stained Glass Shadows as the sun is setting

Have you been wondering?

2012-01-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

Bishop Michael is aware that many of you have been wondering about that status of breakaway Anglicans from the questions he has received on his Pastoral Calls.

From Episcopal News Service

Archbishops suggest ‘open-ended engagement’ with breakaway Anglicans

By ENS staff | January 20, 2012 2 Comments |

[Episcopal News Service] Archbishops Rowan Williams of Canterbury and John Sentamu of York have suggested that the Church of England and the Anglican Communion ought to be in “an open-ended engagement” with the Anglican Church in North America.

The organization is made up of individuals and groups that have left the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada, as well as those that have never been members of those two provinces. It includes entities such as the Reformed Episcopal Church, formed in 1873, and theAnglican Mission in the Americas, founded by Rwandan Archbishop Emmanuel Kolini and Moses Tay, the now-retired primate of the province of South East Asia, in 2000.

Williams and Sentamu made their remarks in a report to the Feb. 6-9 sessions of the Church of England’s General Synod.

The report comes in response to a resolution the synod passed two years ago in which the Church of England recognized and affirmed ACNA’s desire “to remain in the Anglican family,” but said it was not yet ready to be in full communion with the breakaway entity.

The archbishops said that theirs was “a report on work in progress since the consequences of the establishment of ACNA some two and a half years ago are still emerging and on a number of issues any assessment at this stage must necessarily be tentative.” They offer some details on three issues: the range of possible relationships between other Christian churches and the Church of England, how a “particular local Church” can be accepted as part of the Anglican Communion, and under what circumstances the orders of another church might be recognized and accepted by the Church of England.

They noted that General Synod determines the nature of its relationship with other Christian churches and that the Anglican Consultative Council‘s constitution allows for new members by decision of the Standing Committee of the Communion and with the assent of two-third of the primates of the Churches already listed in the constitution. And, they said, people ordained in churches that accept the historical episcopate may be received into the Church of England and be authorized to minister.

The February 2010 resolution referred to “the distress caused by recent divisions within the Anglican churches of the United States of America and Canada,” and the archbishops said that that distress will continue “for some considerable time.” The divisions occurred over the decisions of the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada related to full inclusion of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) people in the life of the church, the ordination of women and the authority of scripture.

“Wounds are still fresh,” Sentamu and Williams write. “Those who follow developments in North America from some distance have a responsibility not to say or do anything which will inflame an already difficult situation and make it harder for those directly involved to manage the various challenges with which they are still grappling.”

Thus, they said, the outcome of the open-ended engagement that they suggest “is unlikely to be clear for some time yet, especially given the strong feelings on all sides of the debate in North America.”

The two men stressed that the Church of England “remains fully committed to the Anglican Communion and to being in communion both with the Anglican Church of Canada and the Episcopal Church.”

Bishop Hosting Aspirancy Weekend at St. Thomas of Canterbury

2012-01-19T20:27:00.005-07:00

Bishop Vono is hosting the Aspirancy Weekend at St. Thomas of Canterbury in Albuquerque this weekend. Members of the Standing Committee, Bishop's School for Ministries, the Commission on Ministry and Canon's to the Ordinary attend these meetings with aspirants. The purpose of the weekend is a time of prayer, vocation, reflection and conversation. Those in attendance assist Bishop Vono in discerning the vocation of people to ordained ministry.

Please keep all in your prayers.

For the choice of fit persons for the ministry
O God, you led your holy apostles to ordain ministers in every place: Grant that your Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, may choose suitable persons for the ministry of Word and Sacrament, and may uphold them in their work for the extension of your kingdom; through him who is the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

For all Christians in their vocation
Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Art Post - The Face of Jesus

2012-01-19T19:50:00.002-07:00

New Mexico and Texas - State of the Art. One of the gifts of living in New Mexico and Far West Texas is the understanding and appreciation of Art. From Taos and Santa Fe, down to Marfa we are truly the "State(s) of the Art."

In the future, we will host various cultural offerings at your Bosque Center. We are planning a series of lectures, book readings, educational courses, art exhibits and will highlight locally grown food (and chefs). We want you to share in the life of your Center and experience the gifts and talents of our Diocese.

To emphasize the cultural aspect, we would like to post the images found in a fascinating exhibit currently touring the United States - Rembrandt and the Face of Jesus. While this exhibit is currently found only in Large Museums, the images of our Lord are moving. Various theological journals have commented on the exhibit and the intricacies and details of the paintings. We wanted to share these beautiful images of our Lord - I can only imagine.

Christ painted by Rembrandt in about 1650. It’s a small oil study, probably painted from life—although it is only a guess that it’s based on one of Rembrandt’s Jewish neighbors. At the time, the image is so different from standard portraits of Christ. It seems to have been inventoried as a “Portrait of Jesus” when Rembrandt faced bankruptcy in 1656.

One of Rembrandt’s “portraits” of Christ, probably in a version copied by one of his pupils. Two of the series lived in Rembrandt’s bedroom.

SALVATOR MUNDI IN A LANDSCAPE, by the Master of the Mansi Magdalene.

The image was painted in Antwerp somewhere between 1510 and 1530, by an artist whose name has been lost. It channels a tradition for representing Christ that was already over 1,000 years old.

Saint Veronica's Veil

One of many imaged of the holy relic to have directly captured the true features of Christ. This version was painted in Italy about 1500. It represents a standard image of Christ that survived, in thousands of variations, from the early Middle Ages right until today. Rembrandt was one of the only Old Masters who dared break with that tradition.

Warner Sallman painted this image in 1940, basing it on a French painting from 1892. It went on to be one of the most popular images of Christ—ever, reproduced maybe a billion times. It was standard issue to GI’s during World War II and is still a popular confirmation gift.

Christ and the Virgin, by Robert Campin.

This was painted in Flanders in about 1430, when a new realism was starting to take off. The most traditional image of Christ is given a new, tangible presence: note how the gem on Christ’s robe seems to reflect the room in front of him—the room we viewers are in, by his side.

Head of Christ by Rembrandt

Rembrandt’s series seems to portray Jesus as alive and in our midst. By rejecting the traditional depiction of Christ, which links him firmly to a distant Roman past, Rembrandt makes Jesus present at all times, including among us.

A head of Christ, thought to be by Rembrandt and his pupils

This painting is caught as he casts down his eyes—as Jesus might have done in a moment of pain, or doubt.

A head of Christ, thought to be by Rembrandt and his pupils

Jesus seems almost to be speaking—one of the classic achievements of good portraiture in Rembrandt’s own day.

A head of Christ, probably by Rembrandt himself

Christ turns to look almost straight into our eyes—but Rembrandt first painted him looking up, then changed the direction of his gaze.

The Face of Christ in All his Beauty

SOMETHING SPECIAL HAPPENED....

2012-01-18T20:24:00.001-07:00

A million miracles occur daily in our lives. I often wonder if we open our eyes and ears to the possibility of angels singing or a bush burning. Therefore, we encourage you to send us stories of little (and big) miracles that occur in our lives. God is working in many ways within the Diocese of the Rio Grande, let's share them with the world. Send me your piece for "Something Special Happened..."

I will begin the first "Something Special Happened" Series. Celebrating the Eucharist is central to my life as a Priest. The intimacy involved with the presence of Christ in the Eucharist, shared among the faithful, cannot be adequately expressed through words. Tears - maybe, words no. Today, I had the opportunity to celebrate the Noon Eucharist at the Cathedral for the Feast of the Confession of St. Peter. The Altar Guild at the Cathedral is amazing and Noon Eucharist in the small chapel is special.

In the back of the chapel sat a couple blessed with gift of years. Prior to the service, the gentleman asked if we could take the Eucharist to his wife who could not come forward to receive. Yes, of course.

It was a beautiful service with the reading of my favorite Gospel passage "Peter, feed my sheep." I noticed the wife raised her head only once, during the Sacrament. At the conclusion of the service, as I was say the final blessing, the wife raised her hand and in a loud voice stated "Father" I tentatively responded "Yes" and she asked "since this is Martin Luther King week, can we sing We Shall Overcome?" I told her that I did not know all the words, however, if she would lead, I believed all in attendance would join in. A broad smile was on the face of all those in the chapel as we started singing "We shall overcome..." Our friend in the back row could not lift her head, yet her voice rang through the great cathedral.

Yes, we shall overcome. We shall overcome the problems, the divisions, the pain. We shall overcome because we believe in Christ, our hope. Yes, we shall overcome, with little miracles, with a special song, with a frail lady in the back row asking if we could sing in the presence of God. Yes, we shall overcome.

Happy Day and the blessing of God. Please send your stories because something special always happens, in our Diocese.

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE

2012-01-18T20:01:00.002-07:00

Palm Sunday, April 1

Church of the Holy Faith, Santa Fe – BISHOP VONO (8:30, 10:45 followed by lunch)

Trinity on the Hill, Los Alamos – CANON McNELLIS

St. Mary’s, ABQ – CANON GUTIERREZ

Monday, April 2

Clergy Quiet Day/Retreat, St. Mark’s on the Mesa – ABQ

Tuesday, April 3

Mass of Collegiality – Cathedral, ABQ

Mass of Collegiality – TBA, El Paso

Maundy Thursday, April 5

St. James’, Mesilla Park – VONO

Holy Spirit, El Paso – CANON McNELLIS

Cathedral, ABQ - CANON GUTIERREZ

Good Friday, April 6

St. Andrew’s, Las Cruces – VONO

St. Paul’s, Marfa – CANON McNELLIS

St. Francis’, Rio Rancho – CANON GUTIERREZ

Easter Sunday, April 8

Cathedral, ABQ – BISHOP VONO

St. Andrew’s, Roswell – CANON McNELLIS

St. Michael’s and All Angels – CANON GUTIERREZ

Confession of St. Peter

2012-01-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

On 18 January we remember how the Apostle Peter was led by God's grace to acknowledge Jesus as the Christ (Matthew 16:13-20), and we join with Peter, and with all Christians everywhere, in hailing Jesus as our Lord, God, and Savior

Almighty Father, who didst inspire Simon Peter, first among the apostles, to confess Jesus as Messiah and Son of the Living God: Keep thy Church steadfast upon the rock of this faith, that in unity and peace we may proclaim the one truth and follow the one Lord, our Savior Jesus Christ; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

Day at Diocesan House

2012-01-17T19:31:00.001-07:00

As we blogged last week, this is our hectic day. Prior to staff, Fr. Raney celebrated Eucharist. We commemorated St. Antony of Egypt.

To read his history, please go to the Daily Office link located on this page.

St. Antony of Egypt

Faces and Places at the Bosque Center.

We are preparing for the on-line courses by researching Adobe Connect. Information will be waiting and available for the January 26th orientation.

We need to discuss St. Paul

In the Original Greek!

If it was written after the 12th Century, I question it!

The Heartbeat (s) of the Office - they keep us going.

Carol Miller

Canon Raney preparing the next video message

Arlene as the gate keeper

Toye assuring smiles are in order

Our Postal Carrier - Keeps us tied to the outside world!

Our Offices!

For those who have not visited, a brief view of our very small but efficient offices.

The office of Canon McNellis

Fr. Daniel's Office

Lisa preparing for the next budget meeting. Could not function without her.

The Bishop after a loooooong day.

Mary hiding from the camera

Mary finally captured on camera

Dean Goodman discussing his agenda

Bosque Center Bid Update

One of the numerous meetings includes the weekly update/construction reviews for the Bosque Center and Diocesan House. We have been blessed with a great team that includes Greg Hicks and Mario Atencio from Greg Hicks and Associates. The bids are coming in, reviewing the bids and we hope to start laying the forms asap.

We found out today that Mario Atencio is not only a talented designer, fly fisherman supreme, and, an outstanding Trumpet player who plays in a Salsa band - Mickey Cruz.

We are blessed with the talents of Greg Hicks.

Moving on to Bishop's School for Ministries Meetings.

Rev. Lin

The Honorable Joe Alarid from the Commission on Ministry.

We Want Pictures

2012-01-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

Send your pictures of visitations, events, etc. We will post them on the blog.

If you have a special event at your Church, we will post the event and publish the pics.

Great publicity!

The Vista for January 10th

2012-01-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

A Vista of Clovis

Snow Slam 2012! February 18-20

Registrations for Snow Slam 2012! Should be sent to

BERYL ZIMMERMAN, CAMP STONEY

7855 OLD SANTA FE TRAIL

SANTA FE, NM 87505

Bishop’s School for Ministry

Contrary to rumor, the classes provided through the Bishop’s School for Ministry are not mandatory for Deacons. Information on the upcoming classes has been transmitted via email.

Orientation for the program will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, at the Cathedral of St. John, 3rd and Silver streets, for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance. This orientation will provide an overview of each course and test the electronic systems for participants. A lunch will follow. The charge is $200 per course for ordained clergy and laity for continuing education credits $50 per course for laity who wish only to audit the course No charge for postulants or candidates.

Sharing Your Events with the Diocese

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule - On the Road Again

The Visitation Schedules

Bishop Vono is scheduled to visit the following:

January 15 - St. James', Mesilla Park

January 22 - Church of the Holy Family, Santa Fe

January 22 - St. Thomas the Apostle, Santa Fe

January 29 - Holy Mount, Ruidoso

January 29 - St. Matthias, Carrizozo

The Canons to the Ordinary are scheduled to visit:

The Rev. Canon Daniel Gutierrez

January 29 - St. Andrew's, Roswell

Lay Licensing

Calling All Applicants for Diocesan Treasurer

The Diocese is accepting applications for appointment as Diocesan Treasurer. Applicants are asked to submit a resume, and a discernment essay describing “why I feel called.” Submissions should be sent to the Diocese to the attention of Lisa Katz-Ricker. Applications will be reviewed during the month of January and interviews will be scheduled for the month of February. We are anticipating appointing a diocesan treasurer in early March.

Visiting the Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Office is open to serve from 9 a.m. to Noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call in advance if you need to visit the office at the Bosque Center during the lunch hour. Also Tuesdays are staff meeting days, and advance arrangements should be made to visit the office.

Be sure to notify your Treasurers and others to change the Diocesan address

The Diocesan address must be changed on all communications with the Diocese.

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center

6400 Coors Boulevard NW

Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

The phone numbers for the Diocesan Office will remain the same.

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

Clergy News:

Clergy Events:

Friday, January 27: The Rev’d Dale Plummer will be installed as rector of St. Andrew’s, Roswell, New Mexico.

Convention Eucharist Photo

The photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us

Bishop Vono will visit St. James this weekend

2012-01-12T21:57:00.001-07:00

Part of the Family

Stoney Summer Schedule

2012-01-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

A Publication of Bishop Stoney Camp Retreat Center

January 2012

Why Should You Send Your Children to Camp?

Includes excerpts from Camping Magazine Nov/Dec 2011 issue,

Article titled: Why the World Needs Summer Camp An Essay to Parents

We all know economic times are hard, we hear it on the news, on the streets, in our homes, from family and friends, and we see it in print nearly every day. We are always on the look-out for a better way to invest our money. Dollar for dollar, there is no better return on our money than investing it in our children and youth. As our Church is fond of saying, “Our Children and Youth are the future of our Church.” They are our Church. If we are not willing to invest our time and monies in teaching our children and youth to be independent and caring individuals, what does that bode for the future of our Church and community?

Sending our children and youth to summer camp is one way we can show them they are worth that investment. It is a place where they get reacquainted with old friends and make new friends from all over the world and from different economic backgrounds. They make new memories that last a lifetime in a safe and loving environment. Some of my daughter’s closest and oldest friends are those she met a Camp. They live all over the country. She talks on the phone, chats on Facebook, emails and texts with someone she met at Camp nearly every day. These are the relationships that help our children and youth build character by encouraging them to look outside of themselves. Camp teaches them to be more tolerant of others ideas and beliefs; to work together in cooperation and

trust.

Our children and youth are so busy these days. Camp is a place they can get away from the pressure of achievement and the buzz of electronics. It is a place where they are allowed to just be kids for awhile and play just for the sake of playing. They have the opportunity to express themselves by participating in the drama of Aslan’s country during Narnia Camp, playing Quidditch or meeting an owl during Harry Potter week, building up their courage and confidence white-water rafting on the Rio Grande, and working as a team on the Camp’s ropes course.

“Camps give kids a chance to practice being the best they can be. They experience a place designed to create happy memories and encourage self-expression.” “Kids learn from a full range of emotions and human experiences including homesickness, friendships, disagreements, team work, frustrations, jubilant success, and more.” “Our hopes and jobs are to ready our kids to be productive, independent, and capable people – to prepare them to thrive without us. Camp offers a way for kids to start developing those skills in the best possible environment.”

“Camp is a gift we can give our children that they will benefit from and remember forever. If ever there was a time when the world needed a generation of future leaders who understood the intricacies of living in a community, having tolerance, and being open – that time is now.” I encourage you to send your kids to Camp this summer, maybe even come yourselves and bring your whole family to Alumni/Family Camp, or make a donation that will allow another child to experience all that camp has to offer. I hope to see you and your kids at one of our camp sessions this summer.

As we say in Hawaii, A hui hou kahou malama pono, and Ke Akua hoomaikai oe; `Till then, take care and God bless you.

Beryl Zimmerman

Camp Stoney Summer Schedule 2012

May 25-28 Alumni/Family Camp—all ages—parents required Fee: $150 adults, $100 children

Come back for a long weekend with your family. This camp provides a great way to introduce younger children to camp while providing families quality time participating in traditional camp activities and sharing their faith together. Join us for a look into our past as we dig up a time capsule buried in the 1980’s and hopefully bury a new one for future generations to enjoy.

June 3-9 Sr. High Adventure Camp—grades 9^th-12^th Fee: $400 + $100 rafting fee

Adventure Camp offers wilderness backpacking, off-site camping and white-water rafting, work on our own high & low ropes course, a trip to the climbing gym, Bible study, and dynamic worship in God’s creation.

June 10-16 Harry Potter Camp—grades 3^th-8^th Fee: $400

A fantasy camp that explores the Christian themes found in J.K. Rowling’s, “The Chamber of Secrets”, through Bible study and worship. Play Quidditch, visit Diagon Alley, put on a skit, make themed craft projects, take a potions class, swim, hike, and have an archery lesson all at Camp Stoney’s version of Hogwart’s.

June 10-16 Senior High Fantasy Camp—grades 9^th-12^th Fee: $400

A fantasy camp for teens; they will explore the Christian themes found in J.K. Rowlings, “The Half Blood Prince”, through Bible study and worship. They will participate in themed and traditional camp activities as well as play Quidditch at Camp Stoney’s version of Hogwarts.

June 17-23 Jr. High Adventure 1 Camp—grades 6^th-9^thFee: $400 + $50 rafting fee

Early teens are introduced to the rugged outdoors through wilderness backpacking, off-site camping and white-water rafting, work on our high & low ropes course, a trip to the climbing gym, Bible study, and dynamic worship in God’s creation.

June 17-23 Outdoor Adventure Camp—grades 3^rd-6^th Fee: $400

A pre-quel to the Jr. High Adv. Camp, it focuses on outdoor skills such as hiking, campfire cooking, and sleeping in teepees. They will also participate in all the traditional camp activities, all while building a stronger relationship with Christ.

July 1-7 Summer Fun Camp—grades 3^rd-10^th Fee: $400

A traditional summer camp program that includes Bible study and worship, swimming, archery, field games, hiking, low ropes, arts & crafts, s’mores, and lots of fun.

July 1-7 Arts & Crafts Camp—grades 3^rd-10^th Fee: $400 + $50 materials fee

An opportunity for children to experiment with different art forms and mediums: wood crafts, painting, scrap-booking, paper-making, and a visit to the Folk Art Museum. All while getting to know the Creator in whose image we are made.

July 8-14 Jr. High Adventure 2 Camp—grades 6^th-9^thFee: $400 + $50 rafting fee

July 8-14 Narnia Camp—grades 3^rd-8^th Fee: $400

Campers grow in their relation with Christ as they explore the world of C.S. Lewis’s, “The Magician’s Nephew”, by participating in drama, Bible study, worship, and traditional camp activities.

July 15-21 Grace Camp—grades 3^rd-6^th Scholarships provided for all participants

This special outreach ministry provides a camping experience for children of an incarcerated family member.

Please note: volunteers and donations are needed to support this ministry.

July 15-21 Sr. High Leadership Camp—grades 8^th-12^th Fee: $400 This camp offers teens a chance for creative fun and an opportunity to serve. Campers will explore the call of Christ on their lives through Bible study and worship, and will reach out to the Grace campers through mentoring.

Some News from our friends at St. Michael

2012-01-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

Bishop's School Information Sheet Available

2012-01-11T20:31:00.000-07:00

Excitement is building in the Diocese. Spending weekends learning with the Dean, Canon Valantasis and a distinguished faculty. Master the Greek Language or dust off the old liturgical books and fall in love with our beautiful Anglican Liturgical Tradition.

Please join us for the classes at the Bishop's School for Ministries. You will not be disappointed.

Information Sheet

Winter Session Classes
7:30-9:00 Biblical Greek, taught by Professor Warren Smith
9:15-12:15 Pauline Epistles, taught by Canon Richard Valantasis 1:00-4:00 Anglican and Episcopal Liturgy, taught by Dean Mark Goodman

Summer Intensive Courses (5 days each)
Preaching (to be announced)
History and Theology of the Early Church (Richard Valantasis)

Dates of Courses
Saturday, January 28, 2012 Orientation at 11:00 am (followed by lunch) Saturday, February 18
Saturday, March 17
Saturday, April 28 (note change)
Saturday, May 19 Saturday, June 23

Orientation
On Saturday, January 28, at 11:00 am there will be an orientation program for all those attending in Albuquerque as well as for those who will be participating electronically from a distance. This orientation will provide an overview of each course and test the electronic systems for participants. A lunch will follow.

Place
The Cathedral of St. John, Albuquerque, NM

Cost
$200 per course for ordained clergy and laity for continuing education credits $50 per course for laity who wish only to audit the course. No charge for postulants or candidates.

Clergy may apply for diocesan Continuing Education funds. Scholarships are also available. Contact Canon Daniel Gutierrez (dgutierrez@dioceserg.org). Make check payable to Diocese of the Rio Grande, note Bishop’s School

Meals
Lunch for classes is not provided at the Cathedral, so bring a bag lunch if you are studying all day. There will be a lunch provided for orientation.

Electronic Availability
These courses will also be offered through Adobe Connect to those who cannot travel to Albuquerque. You will need high-speed internet connection, a video camera on your computer, and a telephone to connect electronically. Instructions will be sent to those who have registered.

Credit
There is no academic credit for these courses, but clergy and others may earn continuing education credit. Auditors are asked to read the material for the course, but are not required to write papers or do other written assignments. Auditors do not receive continuing education credit.

Registration
You may register online by sending an e-mail to school@dioceserg.org or by calling Toye Robertson at the Bosque Center (505-881-0636). Checks need to be mailed to the Bosque Center attn: Toye Robertson, 6400 Coors Blvd NW, Alb. NM 87120. Upon receipt of payment, participants will receive the syllabus for the course(s) and instructions for the electronic participation.

Send Your Comments

2012-01-10T20:48:00.000-07:00

We want your comments, and encourage you to submit topics.

Please send to dgutierrez@dioceserg.org and maybe you will see your comment!

Rhythm of the Office

2012-01-10T20:42:00.001-07:00

Get to know your Diocesan Staff and Office!

Over the next few months, we hope to provide a glimpse into the routine of the Diocesan Office. Tuesday is a great day at Diocesan House.

Bishop Vono describing his amazing visit to Grants

Lights are "on" about 7:20. Coffee is brewing and the busy rhythm of the office begins. We are blessed by the beautiful rays of light as they enter into the gathering space at the Bosque Center. Tuesday is "Staff Meeting Day." This is truly our time. Mary, Carol, Toye, Lisa, Bishop, Raymond, Daniel, Kathleene, and Arlene are moving through the crowded hallways of our temporary offices.

Stick your head in an office and you will find Mary on the phone with 815. Kathy is sending emails, Lisa is working on budgets, Toye is returning calls, Carol is writing checks and Arlene is developing detailed charts. We all check our assignments, return calls and prepare for a long day.

Bishop reviewing his large stack of notes and Canon Raney preparing "In the Loop"

We celebrate Staff Eucharist at 9:30 with a temporary altar and our rocking chairs. As we begin the Collect for Purity, we are blessed with a amazing view of God's creation just outside the bank of windows. Horses and colts running in the field to the east, an elderly couple holding hands as they walk along the ditch bank, a coyote coming home after a long night.

Staff meeting begins promptly at 10. No lunch for the weary - we work through lunch and staff meeting usually ends around 3. It is a productive format and we have the opportunity to discuss, plan, envision, and correct. Internal committee meetings usually follow staff meeting. Notes from "in the loop" and "the vista" are compiled and checked.

Arlene Padilla taking notes and double checking our progress

From 3 p.m until 5:30, we follow up on delegated assignments, return calls and answer emails.

Canon McNellis planning her next congregational visitation.

Usually, no external meetings are are scheduled on Tuesday. If you call on a Tuesday and receive our voice mail, it is because we are in staff meeting. Staff Meeting is scheduled to fill the majority of the day as we work on budgets, committee meeting planning, and various administrative work for the Diocese.

Thank you for your Tuesday understanding!

Toye with that wonderful smile we cherish

Please visit and say hello and please check this blog for the latest breaking news in the wild, wild, (and busy) Diocese of the Rio Grande.

Pictures of the Bosque Center Groundbreaking

2012-01-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

From Clovis to Farmington, El Paso to Taos, Episcopalians from throughout the Diocese gathered for the groundbreaking of the Bosque Center. On a beautiful day in Advent, we joined as one to celebrate Your center. We have included pictures of that day so that all can share.

All are welcome!

Bishop Vono and the final blessing.

A new beginning, new ministries, a new journey

The faces and voices of our Diocese

St. Mark's on the Mesa, St. Bede's, Epiphany.

Fr. Mundy connecting us to the greater Church

How Firm a Foundation

A Blessed and Holy Night - Evening Prayer.

2012-01-09T19:55:00.001-07:00

Let my prayer be set forth in your sight as incense, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Psalm 141:2

O gracious light, pure brightness of the everliving Father in heaven,
O Jesus Christ, holy and blessed!
Now as we come to the setting of the sun, and our eyes behold the vesper light, we sing your praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
You are worthy at all times to be praised by happy voices, O Son of God, O Giver of Life, and to be glorified through all the worlds.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. 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. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.' ") From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father's heart, who has made him known.

The Lord's Prayer
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name,
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Lead us not into temptation, and deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, the glory now and for ever. Amen.

Collect of the Day: First Sunday after the Epiphany: The Baptism of our Lord.
Father in heaven, who at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan proclaimed him your beloved Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit: Grant that all who are baptized into his Name may keep the covenant they have made, and boldly confess him as Lord and Savior; who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

May the God of hope fill us with all joy and peace in believing through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Good Explanation to the Ordinariate

2012-01-09T18:58:00.001-07:00

Bishop C. Andy Doyle of the Diocese of Texas provided a simple explanation of the Ordinariate. This is a wonderful addition to Bishop Vono's Pastoral Letter which is receiving great responses across the United States and overseas.

January 3, 2011

As many of you may be aware, the Anglican Ordinariate launched nationwide this week and it will be operated out of the Roman Catholic diocesan office in Houston . The Rev. Jeffrey Steenson, a former Episcopal bishop, now a Roman Catholic priest working and teaching in Houston, will oversee the Ordinariate.

What is an Ordinariate? An ordinariate is a canonical structure within the Roman Catholic Church enabling former Anglicans to maintain their “Anglican” identity and autonomy within the Roman Church. Its precise nature may be viewed in the Anglicanorum Coetibus of November 4, 2009. The document states that the goal is "to maintain the liturgical, spiritual and pastoral traditions of the Anglican Communion within the Catholic Church, as a precious gift nourishing the faith of the members of the Ordinariate and as a treasure to be shared."

This is not a unique event within the Roman Catholic Church. In the Roman Church there are other Latin rite churches with similar accommodations. One in particular offers a similar structure and governing principles for Eastern Churches that wanted to return to communion with the Holy See (Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches).

This is not a new initiative. The process for the current Ordinariate began in 1977 when the Episcopal Church began ordaining women priests. A 1980 pastoral provision was granted only for the United States and it directly subjects those former Anglicans to whom it is applied to the governance of the existing local Latin Rite bishops. In October 2007 the Traditional Anglican Communion (TAC) presented a petition to the Holy See requesting full union in corporate form, an action that has resulted in the Ordinariate we see in today’s headlines. This Ordinariate was a topic of discussion at the Diocese of Texas’ Clergy Conference in 2009 when it was initially announced.

The Ordinariate is news within the Roman Catholic Church today because it shows a broadening of the Roman tradition within a Church not known for change. In the Episcopal Church and Anglican tradition, we regularly welcome and receive members from all denominations. For many years we have had a process by which a person or congregation might affiliate with our Church and become Episcopalian. While our canons have offered this provision for movement for a long time, it remains a novelty for Rome.

Not many people are expected to make a change. The Rev. Steenson and Cardinal Daniel DiNardo have represented publicly that some 1400 individuals nationally have expressed interest in joining the Roman Church. Many of these individuals are members of congregations who already have pastoral oversight of regional Latin bishops and are not members of any Episcopal diocese. In the Houston area, Our Lady of Walsingham will be participate in the Ordinariate but the congregation has never been an Episcopal Church. Other break away congregations may seek to join the Ordinariate. I know of only one retired clergyman in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas who is considering joining the Roman Church.

It is also important when speaking about numbers to recognize the small nature of the numbers of individuals interested in the Ordinariate. In the Episcopal Diocese of Texas alone we welcome more than 200 new members a year from Roman and Orthodox churches. This number is even larger when you consider numbers received by the Episcopal Church in the continental United States.

Why aren’t more people participating in the Ordinariate? I think it is because to participate in the ordinariate one must professes Roman Catholic principles and doctrines in their entirety and maintain fidelity to the Pope. Divorce and remarriage alone present particular stumbling blocks for many Episcopalians and worldwide Anglicans.

Is this an ecumenical unification of two Christian denominations?The Ordinariate is not an ecumenical joining of the Anglican Church with the Roman Church. While friendship and courtesy exist between our two Churches, there remain major doctrinal divisions between the Anglican Church and the Roman Catholic Church. The Ordinariate is about expanding the definition of who may be considered part of the Roman Church, based upon liturgical use.

Are we, as Anglicans, moving back to into unity with the Roman Catholic Church? It is true that as of the Second Vatican Council in the 1960’s both the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church have been in dialogue (along with many other denominations). In these conversations we have agreed that, regarding the historic churches, the essential shape of our language relating to God and Christ Jesus is shared. We understand that we are a community in relationship with God and with other believers and that the Church, in its broadest sense, is a model for human life together in accordance with God’s purpose and intention.

In his Willebrands Symposium in 2009, Archbishop Rowan Williams said: “the Church is a community, in which human beings are made sons and daughters of God, and reconciled both with God and one another. The Church celebrates this through the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion in which God acts upon us to transform us in communion.” In fact the Trinitarian doctrine and the discourse around the Lord’s Supper are strongly affirmed on all sides of the ecumenical discussion.

All of that being said … there remain major obstacles when we move beyond these common beliefs. Most of the divisions stem from the nature of the Roman Catholic Magisterium. The magisterium is the teaching authority of the Roman Church. This authority is rooted solely in the episcopacy, which is the combination of the bishops of the Roman Church in union with the Pope. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, the Magisterium is able to teach or interpret the truths of the faith, and may do so either non-infallibly or infallibly. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2nd ed. 1997, pt. 1, sect. 1, ch. 2, art. 2, III [#100]) For example: "The task of interpreting the Word of God authentically has been entrusted solely to the Magisterium of the Church, that is, to the Pope and to the bishops in communion with him." (ibid)

One can easily see that issues such as divorce, remarriage, married clergy and women priests are but a few practices that are locally discerned by our Episcopal Church, but remain stumbling blocks for the Roman Church as we pursue greater ecumenical unity.

Our polity and nature as Anglicans does not hold that there is one mechanism or person in the Church that has the clear right to determine for all where the limits of Christian identity and practice reside. We do not believe the integrity of the Church is dependent upon one single, identifiable ministry or person of unity to which all local ministries are accountable. But rather that it is the sum total of the Church’s discernment and prayer which guides the teaching practice of the missionary church. (Ibid) All this is to say that we as Anglicans do not have a Pope or understand the teaching ministries of the Church in the same manner as do our Roman brothers and sisters, and such a divergent opinion is a very real gulf between the two Churches.

As Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, where do I stand regarding the new Roman Catholic Ordinariate? I have no anxiety and I hope that the Ordinariate will be a place where some who feel spiritually homeless may find a dwelling place; and a place where others may come to a better understanding of their own Anglican heritage.

In the Bible Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel together at Shechem. His last teaching to Israel was this, he said, “Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)

I have chosen to follow God in Christ Jesus through the particular and unique church community of the Episcopal Church. I am unabashedly Episcopalian and I love my church. Furthermore, I embrace and welcome all those who choose to serve Jesus in and through the ministries of this Church. We in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas are a people in mission and we are focused on the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit, such that men and women will be drawn into relationship with him as Savior and follow him as Lord in the specific fellowship of the Episcopal Church; which is part of Christ’s universal and catholic church.

You may read ENS coverage here.

The Bishop's School for Ministries

2012-01-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

Keep this on your radar and watch for class offerings in the future. You will not be disappointed. Grow theologically, ask questions, meet your neighbors from across the state.

Bosque Center Update

2012-01-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

The construction at the Bosque Center is proceeding!

In December we completed the demolition of the South complex. The Lord was gazing upon the Bosque Center - no major problems were encountered during demolition. We are now proceeding with final permitting and obtaining bids for final construction.

The staff of Diocesan House will meet with the Architects and Contractor this week to review bids. We hope to begin construction in February. Please check back for updates on your Center.

Meet Your Newest Deacon

2012-01-07T15:21:00.002-07:00

On the Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord, Doug Bleyle was ordained as the newest Deacon in the Diocese of the Rio Grande. The Cathedral Church of St. John was filled with incense, song and laughter as Bishop Vono placed his hands on Doug and read the sacred words:

"Therefore, Father, through Jesus Christ your Son, give your Holy Spirit to Douglas; fill him with grace and power, and make him a deacon in your Church."

The evening was festive and joyful. God of then prophets, bless the prophets' heirs was sung as the processional. Doug was presented by members of Holy Cross Edgewood, friends and family including Canon Raymond Raney, Canon Ads Lovekin, Rev. Jennifer Phillips, Rev. Donald K. Bleyle, Jennifer Bleyle, Mary Ann Bleyle, Ella Notanabah-Jones, Vic Rizzo and Jane Vickers.

Dean Goodman beautifully recited the Litany for Ordination, followed by Doug's parents reading the Old Testament (Isaiah 60:1-6, 9) and New Testament (Ephesians 3:1-12).

With her spiritual presence, Rev. Deacon Judith Jenkins read the Gospel of the Ephiphany (Matthew 2:1-12) and Canon Richard Valantasis in his homily encouraged Doug to challenge society on behalf of the oppressed. Doug seemed visibly moved as Canon Richard spoke of the role of the Deacon: challenging, hard, fruitful, joyous, and blessed! All that were in attendance were moved by Canon Valantasis' sermon as he reminded all that Deacons are called to serve. (If you run into Canon Richard, ask him about his haircut in St. Louis). I smiled as we sang my favorite hymn: Come, thou font of every blessing.

The Cathedral Choir is one of the best in the Southwest (I would argue the nation) and they lived up to their vocational calling. A beautiful sight was seen in the smile of Doug's wife Jennifer and a beautiful voice was heard in Doug's infant son Paxton. Doug received a Lakota blessing from Mr. Howard Bad Hand.

Bishop Vono remarked to the assembled faithful that this was his first diaconal ordination since becoming Bishop of the Rio Grande. The evening concluded with a festive reception and all departed into the cold night looking for that star and hopeful for the future of the Diocese.

Doug will now be assigned to the Cathedral Church of St. John to serve his curacy as a Deacon. He will also begin his ministry as Coordinator of Native American Ministries for the Diocese. We look forward to Doug sharing in his talents and gifts with the Diocese. Additionally, we anticipate a long term relationship between the Diocese and the Navajoland Diocese. Doug, great job and we are blessed by your ministry.

Check back for pictures of the ordination.

I have included a brief Bio on Doug.

Douglas K. Bleyle is a talented and creative teacher, writer, and spiritual director. Raised as a United Methodist with a long family history of Methodist ministers, Bleyle lived most of his life in rural parishes in Colorado and came to understand the challenges and gifts of rural ministry with its poverty, rich sense of community, and hard work. A long-time participant in Lakota ceremonial practices, Bleyle learned Native American contemplative practices and became fascinated with the way those practices resonated with early Christian liturgical and ascetic traditions.

Trained as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, Bleyle developed a unique and comprehensive program for working with children with learning disabilities (autism, ADD/ADHD, fragile x, Asperbergers Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Down Syndrome) and their wider social networks including family, teachers, and friends. His program created a comprehensive world in which children with a disability, their families, and wider social networks learned to live whole and complete lives, while also addressing the learning and living needs of the children. Bleyle's gift is to create the worlds that promote well-being and a capacity to flourish, especially among challenged social groups.

Bleyle holds a degree from Metropolitan State College in Denver in anthropology and the history of the American West with a focus on Native American history. He also holds an M.Div. from Iliff School of Theology and a Th.M. from Candler School of Theology at Emory University, where he pursued the academic study of asceticism and contemplative practices. His teaching and research focuses on the contemplative practices in various religious systems of Late Antiquity, Eastern Christianity, and Methodist studies.

Bleyle has a special vocation to minister to Native American peoples and to assist Native American Christians to bridge native and adopted traditions. He is the co-author of "The Gospels and Christian Life in History and Practice" and currently is co-author on "Centuries of Contemplation" a book project with the Associates of the ICL.

Check out "The Vista"

2012-01-07T13:09:00.002-07:00

A new feature will be "The Vista" or the "The View." In a effort to update clergy of the workings and initiatives of Diocesan House, Bishop Vono began a communications initiative called "In the Loop." Since its inception in early 2011, "In the Loop" has been a great success.

A modified version of "In the Loop" will be found on this blog.

Check out the weekly "Vista" for information on the Bishop, the Diocese, activities, youth events, happenings in your churches and all the news as it travels in New Mexico and Far West Texas!

We know you will like the "vista"

Snow Slam 2012! February 18-20

Snow Slam 2012! The Rio Grande Youth Task Force invites all our 6-12th graders to find your way to Santa Fe for a weekend of play, music, prayer and snow (hopefully). Climb (or descend) the mountain to grow in fellowship and faith with youth from around the diocese. Sunday at Snow Slam is usually a day on the mountain: as in the past you can ski or snowboard, or learn to ski or snowboard. New this year is an option to enjoy a crazy Scavenger Hunt game in Santa Fe. Registration fee is $100 per person, and this does not include ski/snowboard costs, details on the registration form. A flier and registration form are attached.

The Bishop’s Visitation Schedule

The Visitation Schedules

Bishop Vono is scheduled to visit the following:

January 8 - All Saints’, Grants
January 15 - St. James', Mesilla Park
January 22 - Church of the Holy Family, Santa Fe
January 22 - St. Thomas the Apostle, Santa Fe
January 29 - Holy Mount, Ruidoso
January 29 - St. Matthias, Carrizozo

The Canons to the Ordinary are scheduled to visit:

The Rev. Canon Daniel Gutierrez

January 29 - St. Andrew's, Roswell

Lay Licensing

Bosque Signage: A sign has been designed and is being fabricated to mark the entrance to the Bosque Center along Coors Boulevard at Robeson Drive.

Bosque Center Remodeling: Bids from contractors are expected in the next weeks, and then will be reviewed as the project continues.

Calling All Applicants for Diocesan Treasurer

Convention Eucharist Photo

The photo of the Diocesan Clergy con-celebrating Bishop Michael’s First Convention Eucharist at Living Stones Church is available for download on the Diocesan website at:

http://www.dioceserg.org/pages/view/about_us

The New Diocesan mailing address is:

Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande
Bosque Conference and Spiritual Life Center
6400 Coors Boulevard NW

Albuquerque, NM 87120

First Class Mail sent to the former diocesan address will be forwarded to the Bosque Center.

Diocesan Phone stays the same:

Phone: 505-881-0636

Fax: 505-883-9048

Clergy News:

The Rev. Jeanne Lutz has replaced the Rev. Canon Kathleene McNellis as Priest in Charge at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church in El Paso.
The Rev. Canon Kathleene McNellis has assumed her post as Canon to the Ordinary at the Diocesan Office.
The Rev. Nicolette Papanek has been appointed as Priest in Charge at St. Bede’s Episcopal Church, Santa Fe, to serve as the church goes through the process to replace the Rev. Richard Murphy, who retired. She begins work on February 1.

Clergy Events:

7 p.m. Friday January 6: Mr. Douglas Bleyle will be ordained to the diaconate at the Cathedral of St. John in Albuquerque.
Friday, January 27: The Rev’d Dale Plummer will be installed as rector of St. Andrew’s, Roswell, New Mexico.

Join Us for SNOOOOOW SLAM!

2012-01-07T12:42:00.002-07:00

Activities, fun, friendship, snow and sun.

Over the new few months, the young adults within the Rio Grande will be introduced to a "flurry" of activities.

Join teens from 6th grade - 12th, for snow slam February 18-20.

Invite your friends, invite your family, invited classmate. For more information, contact Diocesan House.

A blessed time to be an Episcopalian. A hopeful time in the Rio Grande

2012-01-04T19:48:00.001-07:00

Bishop Vono sent this Pastoral Letter to the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

It reflects the hope, excitement and encouragement of our faith to Episcopalians in this Diocese and across the nation.

January 4, 2012

A Pastoral letter to the Clergy and Laity of the Diocese of the Rio Grande

To all God’s beloved in the Diocese of the Rio Grande, who are called to be saints:

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

As we enter a New Year to embrace new beginnings and envision a hopeful future for our personal lives, our families, our church communities, and our Diocese, I am blessed in being able to embrace each one of you with the unconditional love of God in Christ Jesus. In this New Year let us pray together for our mutual steadfastness and faithfulness in these times of change and uncertainties. The recent news from Vatican City announcing that Pope Benedict XVI has named my predecessor Father Jeffery Neil Steenson to lead the new “Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter” has evoked in some a sense of disillusionment, betrayal, sadness, and confusion. May I offer several reflections that I pray will be spiritually beneficial as you begin to learn more about the nature and purpose of this unprecedented invitation to disaffected Anglicans and Episcopalians.

First, this invitation comes as a gracious pastoral gesture from the Vatican to those who, with conviction and personal faith, can neither live nor practice their Christianity comfortably in the household of the Episcopal Church or the Anglican Communion. As you are well aware, many current controversies usually are cited by the media for these disaffections. These include the ordination of women as priests and bishops, the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, the issue of same gender blessings, and the ordination of qualified gay persons. Yet as our Christian Church history clearly has shown us, time and time again ours is neither the first nor the last age to experience disaffection among Christians over evolving contemporary controversial issues. What is important to remember and embrace in our faith tradition is that in reality the Church of Jesus Christ never is divided, even by unresolved theological issues of the day, but always is united in One Lord, One Faith, and One Baptism, as we affirm in our baptismal covenant. Differences among Christian denominations and ecclesiologies, whether theological, doctrinal, ethical/moral, or disciplinary perspectives, have their historical roots in the controversies of the early Churches of Sts. Peter and Paul. And yet, Christ’s Catholic Church continues its witness throughout the ages being bound, not by differences, but by a single shared mission and life-giving Gospel. We should never be disillusioned by disaffections, but rather become more conscious of how, with integrity, we can learn from others and continue to love, respect, and live with our neighbors, despite our personal or communal differences.

Second, all those who feel the need to leave the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion go with our blessings, prayers, and abiding love. With humility, understanding, and a trusting faith, we must always be generous in spirit and gracious in manner, praying that those laity and clergy, like Fr. Steenson and others, have peace of mind and clear conscience living their faith in another Christian household. Our 77-million-member Anglican fellowship, which has its apostolic historic roots in the Church of England and the See of Canterbury, which originated with St. Augustine in the year 597, will continue to witness to a uniquely vibrant Christian tradition as we have received it, and as we, the whole people of God, both clergy and laity, in church governance and polity, continue to discern it. We are a Conciliar Church, inspired and formed by our English Reformation, which chose religious freedom and said “no” to the Roman curia and Papal authority.

Today our Episcopal House of Bishops and House of Deputies are alive, well, and faithfully living out the Gospel imperatives proclaiming Christ Jesus as living Lord of the universal Church. We, laity and clergy, humbly rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit in renewing our doctrine, discipline, and worship. Our life in communion is shaped in ways deemed Godly and appropriate by General Convention, as well as life-giving for all people in the age in which we now live. The catholic tradition, as Anglicanism has understood and embraced it, is a living tradition of Christ’s redemptive love, and not a cherished relic or practice of a past age. Again, a study of Christian history clearly shows us that what may have been normative in faith and doctrine in one age may not be normative for another. The gifts and charisma of our Anglican heritage have been and continue to be essential parts of the One Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ. After discussing the Church’s controversies of the day, a wise and progressive Roman Catholic Cardinal once said to me in Rome: “Padre Michele, the Anglican Church’s struggles with change is the wind behind the sails of the Roman Church.” With every change comes a great personal price. Our Anglican Archbishop Michael Ramsey once commented that change was the spiritual burden and charisma the Anglican tradition carried. Of course, as a convinced Anglican who lived in Rome for eighteen years, I agree. Church history has proven this in other controversies time and again.

As your Bishop and Chief Pastor I write to you out of my concern for both your emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Remain steadfast and faithful to the Gospel as you have received it within this Episcopal-Anglican household of faith. Our future is God’s future, and as Lord of the Church, Jesus will bring into being what humanity needs in every age. If you are experiencing a sense of betrayal, sadness, confusion or if you are questioning your faith tradition, I pray that it gives way to trust that ultimately God’s will always prevails, and that, in God’s good time, the Church’s definitive future will be revealed.

I also want to share the joy, hope, and love I have experienced not only within our growing and changing Diocese, but within the entirety of the Episcopal Church. We are God’s people determined to spread the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, and this is experienced through the caring pastoral work of thousands of our Churches throughout the United States. We are experiencing growth at all levels; young families are increasingly joining congregations; college students and young adults are rediscovering the excitement and grace of a lively faith; displaced and outcast people are feeling welcomed and coming to our communities; and our national and international Church’s mission and outreach ministries are touching the lives of millions. In short, the Episcopal Church is alive and growing. We wish our brothers and sisters peace; however, for me and so many others it is a blessed and exciting time to be an Episcopalian.

With my heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, be assured that you all are in my daily prayers, and I wish you every good blessing in this New Year.

Sincerely in Christ Jesus,

Your Bishop,

+ Michael

Bishop featured for 2nd time in a week in the Media

2011-12-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

The Groundbreaking of the Bosque Center was featured in the West Side Edition of the Albuquerque Journal on Saturday, December 17, 2011.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Groundbreaking for the Offices, Conference and Retreat Center for the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande. Construction to infuse $5 Million into local economy.

Albuquerque, NM – December 7, 2011. Bishop Michael Vono of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande announces the groundbreaking for the new Conference and Spiritual Life Center located on Albuquerque’s Westside. The groundbreaking will be held on December 16^th, 2011 at 1 p.m.

“This is a new chapter for the Diocese and the City of Albuquerque” says Bishop Vono. “The conference center will fill an economic niche for Albuquerque and the retreat Center is poised to be a national center for Spirituality.” The Center was purchased in January of 2011 for $1.7 Million and the Diocese is investing up to $1.5 Million for the renovation of the Conference Center.

“This center signals a change for our Diocese” says Bishop Vono, “we are no longer looking inward, we are stepping out into the world with Christ’s message of hope, acceptance and love.” The Center located in the Bosque will have state of the art conference capabilities, a 45 room retreat house and house the offices of the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

Bishop Vono says the Bosque Spirituality and Conference Center on the banks of the Rio Grande in Albuquerque will become a national center of education, reflection and spirituality. “The interest generated by the center is both hopeful and amazing. We have people from across the country, from different denominations, non-profits and the private sector inquiring as to the availability of the Center.” Bishop Vono continued “This Center will be unique in the nation. It combines a state of the art conference center, set along the banks of the Bosque and it becomes a place of retreat, study, work and life.”

It is estimated that the Diocese will infuse over $5 million into the local economy with the renovation and construction of the center. The Diocese has emphasized the hiring of local contractors, architects and workers for this project. “I invite all people to join us for this glorious day. We are not only bringing the life of the Diocese to Albuquerque, we are bringing hope to New Mexico, Far West Texas and the nation.”

The Center is located at 6400 Coors NW. It is one block north of La Orilla, by taking Roberson Road east to the Bosque Center.

Contact: The Reverend Daniel Gutierrez

Canon to the Ordinary, Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

dgutierrez@dioceserg.org

http://www.dioceserg.org/

505-263-8285 or 881-0636

Bishop featured in Albuquerque Journal

2011-12-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Bishop Michael Vono was featured in the Albuquerque Journal on Monday, December 26th 2011 (Section C1). Bishop Vono along with Rev. Susan Allison-Hatch were photographed at St. Martin's Hospitality Center. Bishop Vono spent Christmas morning at the Center and celebrated Eucharist.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Bishop Vono of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande makes statement on poverty and homelessness and will celebrate Christmas at homeless center.

Albuquerque, NM – December 7, 2011. Bishop Michael Vono of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande calls on all New Mexicans to address the problem of poverty and homelessness in New Mexico and Texas. Bishop Vono will bring the problem of poverty to the forefront of the Diocese by celebrating Eucharist at St. Martin’s Homeless Shelter at 8:00 a.m. on Christmas morning.

“During this time of hope and celebration, we must never forget our fellow brothers and sisters who suffer daily with the issues of poverty, hunger and homelessness.” New Mexico ranks at the top of many poverty lists and it was recently noted that New Mexico is fourth in the nation for the highest percentage of people living in poverty for the past 12 months.

Bishop Vono continued “This is not solely a political problem, or a private sector problem, this is not just a religious problem. This is an issue of basic humanity that affects relationships within the entire community. It is an issue that all New Mexicans must address. We will lead the way in bringing the issues of poverty, hunger and homelessness to the forefront of New Mexico.”

St. Martin’s Hospitality Center has been serving Albuquerque for over 25 years by assisting the homeless. It is unique in the number of different services the Center offers to meet the needs of individuals and families. St. Martin’s provides shelter/food programs, mental health services, job assistance and other critical programs. St Martin’s is located at 1201 3rd St NW in Albuquerque.

Bishop Vono emphasized that he intends to call out to businesses and elected officials to face the economic problems facing New Mexicans and Texans. “If one child suffers from hunger, we have failed the community. If one person sleeps in the streets – we have failed in our common humanity. If one person dies alone, we have failed as a people. We must be one unified voice that will not allow for failure.”

The Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande has experienced new growth and has extended its outreach programs throughout New Mexico and far West Texas. A series of initiatives that will address Native American, Hispanic and Border ministries will be unveiled in 2012.

Contact: The Reverend Daniel Gutierrez

Canon to the Ordinary, Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande

dgutierrez@dioceserg.org

http://www.dioceserg.org/

505-263-8285 or 881-0636

###

Diocese on the Move

2011-12-27T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Communications Committee will now host this blog. We will post the Bishop's Videos, as well as breaking news within the Diocese. Keep checking back and find out the latest at the Diocese

Spirituality Center Purchased

2011-02-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

Greetings to you and many blessings this New Year.

As many of you have already heard, or perhaps just now learning, the Trustees, Standing Committee, Diocesan Council and I have been engaged in exploring the possibility of purchasing a Spiritual Renewal Center for our Diocese. As your Bishop, I am privileged on behalf of the Diocese to inform you that as of today, Monday, January 31, 2011, we are legally the owners of a new Diocesan Center. The center, which was originally owned and operated by the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine de’Ricci, offers a wide range of facilities. It sits amidst 5 acres along the Bosque of the Rio Grande in Albuquerque and will provide a peaceful gathering place that is centrally located for our Diocesan Life together. For more information, you may visit their website at ww.spiritualrenwalretreats.com.

The sale of this wonderful facility, by the grace of God, and I believe, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, came to my attention early in December by one of our trustee members and since then many diocesan leaders have been creatively and boldly engaged with me in envisioning how this breathtaking facility could serve the myriad spiritual and educational formative needs of both laity and clergy across the whole diocese for many generations to come. We are all prayerfully just beginning to envision what this facility might become serving as “The Diocese of the Rio Grande Conference and Spiritual Life Center.” The center will house our diocesan office, School For Ministry, future diocesan Resource Library, be a center for laity and clergy continuing education and ministry formation, numerous conferences , intergenerational and young adult ministries, open to parish groups and used for personal and parish retreats. Our doors will be wide open serving both ecumenical and interfaith communities. Centered in the heart of Albuquerque it will become the diocese’s heart-beat giving new life and growth to evangelism in this third millennium and inspiring reconciliation in Christ.

Visioning always entails re-visioning so these descriptive offerings are just some initial ideas. Yet, In my pastoral mind this will be our “Diocesan Family Center” providing us with a more central and accessible location to bring many and diverse people together and to witness to Christ’s Gospel work of love, charity, nourishing community , a place for good works and transforming lives. The Lord has blessed us richly by giving us this extraordinary gift at Christmas and providing a new context in strengthening the mission and ministries of the Diocese of the Rio Grande. The Holy Spirit is on the move. Pray for each other and the witness of the DRG.

Many, many more details, as well as the formal announcements of my new appointments, will be provided you in the next issue of Together. We hope to keep you as informed as is possible realizing developments happen suddenly at times. We also are preparing to make a YouTube Virtual Tour of the premises so you all have a chance to begin envisioning other possibilities as you and I carry on Christ’s Mission. We are blessed and grateful for the foresight of the Trustees and Standing Committee as they insure a strong future for generations to come. Lastly, early in the Autumn we are planning to have an Open House Celebration for every mission and parish in our diocesan family and friends so be on the lookout for the date and time invitation announcing: WELCOME HOME!

Pastoral Letter from Bishop Vono

2011-02-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

29 January 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,

In the past several weeks there have been faithful Christians killed while worshipping in Alexandria, a mass murder in Tucson, unrest and chaos in Egypt and Tunisia and other places in the Middle East and Africa. Last week there was an unconscionable murder of a Christian Ugandan gay rights activist, David Kato, which has shocked, disturbed and deeply saddened both spiritual and political leaders worldwide. All these murders are a seamless pattern of irrational hatred, violence and injustice. We, as Episcopal Anglicans, believe in our Baptismal promise “to strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being." We have been courageously bold in calling the Christian Church to combat the rise of violence and hatred increasing in the world community especially in African countries. In Uganda, adhering to irrational unjust draconian laws, the government continues to call for death and imprisonment of homosexual people, and is complacent in outlawing a public magazine which legally calls for the blatant killing of gay people. Many Ugandans would consider there country largely Christian .These acts of violence are repugnant to the teachings of Jesus Christ. They blatantly disregard the God given dignity and sanctity of every human life. We are taught in the Ten Commandments, “You shall not commit murder. Love your neighbor as yourself.”

I invite you to join me in solidarity of prayer and a public recommitment to strive for justice and reconciliation among all people. As Christians in this third millennium, we must witness to the Christ of God who did not keep silence in the face of injustice and violence. As I would not have been able to keep silence had I been living in Nazi Germany when Jews were murdered because they were Jews, likewise I cannot keep silence in this age as homosexual people are murdered simply because they are homosexual. As David Kato's gentle and loving voice had been effective giving hope and inspiration to numerous discarded people, so also our strong voice of faith and prayer must be heard. May the Lord forgive us our sins and heal the wounds of humanity's lack of compassion and love.

My prayers and support remain with all those who have been spiritually affected by these tragedies.

Blessings,

Bishop Michael

Consecration

2010-10-26T18:40:00.000-06:00

Convention Photos

2010-10-26T18:37:00.000-06:00

The Presiding Bishop addresses the convention.

A New Leadership in town

Fr. Brian Taylor "wades in the water"

Fr. Al - 100 years and going strong

Moving Forward

A sincere debt and thanks for the steady leadership

Picture taken at the Election

2010-10-07T22:11:00.000-06:00

I had to add this picture, it was taken by Deacon Beth at the Election of the Bishop. Some Holy Spirit power going on and i believe she captured it.

Information regarding the consecration

2010-10-07T22:09:00.000-06:00

We will start posting information regarding the consecration. i hope to have pictures of Bishop Elect Vono at work.

THE CONSECRATION OF THE NINTH BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF THE RIO GRANDE

October 22, 2010 11:00 a.m.

Hyatt Regency Hotel Albuquerque, New Mexico

GETTING TO THE HYATT

o Buses will run from the Hilton to the Hyatt beginning at 8:45 a.m. The last bus will leave the Hilton at 10:30 a.m. One handicapped-accessible bus will be available.

o If you do not wish to ride the bus, you may drive to the Hyatt. Parking will be available in the Convention Center Parking Structure at the rate of $6.00 for an entire day. A limited number of spaces will be available in the parking garage beneath the Hyatt for those with limited mobility. Please see map for the location of the parking structure.

THE CONSECRATION SERVICE

o The consecration will take place in the Pavilion Ballroom on the second floor. An extended musical prelude will be offered beginning at 10:20 a.m. This will be an opportunity for everyone to experience the vast musical gifts of congregations throughout the diocese as we prepare for worship.

o The service will begin at 11:00 a.m.

o American Sign Language interpretation will be offered for the hearing impaired. If you require this service, please notify an usher upon arrival in order that you may be seated in the section near the interpreters.

o Vesting for clergy, choir, acolytes, and chalice bearers will be on the lower level. Look for signs or ask a guide wearing a fluorescent

green name badge. Please be in the vesting rooms no later than 10:15!

GETTING TO THE RECEPTION

o Following the service, you are invited to walk the four short blocks from the Hyatt (located at the corner of Fourth Street and Tijeras) to the Cathedral (located at the corner of Fourth Street and Silver) for the reception (please see map). A cadre of Albuquerque Police Department officers will be on hand to direct traffic and ensure that everyone arrives safely. Please follow the instructions of the guides when leaving the Hyatt, as the Police Department has a designated route for pedestrians to follow.

o If you do not wish to walk to the Cathedral, or if you do not wish to attend the reception, you may board one of the buses. Buses will leave the Hyatt and stop at the Cathedral before returning to the Hilton.

o The Ballroom and the vesting rooms will be cleared immediately following the service. If you have vestments or any other personal items with you, you must carry them with you to the Cathedral, where they may be placed in the nave during the reception.

RETURNING TO THE HILTON AFTER THE RECEPTION

o Buses will run from the Cathedral to the Hilton every 15 minutes or so throughout the afternoon. The last bus will leave the Cathedral at 4:00 p.m.

o Don’t forget to pick up your banner (and equipment) at the Hilton before departing for home! The Garden Room will be open until 5:30 p.m. for you to retrieve your banner (and equipment).

BANNERS AND EQUIPMENT

o Banners will be gathered together in a designated room (to be announced) at the Hilton. Please bring them to the designated room by noon on Thursday, October 21. Leave them rolled up, and be certain that both your banner and the stand are labeled. On Thursday afternoon, a crew of movers will transport all of the

banners and stands to the Hyatt. A team of organizers will set up all of the banners in the ballroom on Thursday evening and will catalog them to determine the order in which they will be carried in procession. Because time will be very limited for the crew to set up the banners, and due to rehearsals in the Ballroom on Thursday evening and Friday morning, please do NOT bring your banner directly to the Hyatt!

o Banner bearers should report to the vesting/gathering rooms on the lower level at 9:15 a.m. (look for signs, or ask one of the guides wearing a fluorescent green name tag). The vergers will provide instructions there; do not go directly to the ballroom to retrieve your banner before the service!

o After the service, the crew of movers will transport all of the banners and stands back to the Hilton. They will be stored in the Garden Room at the Hilton for pickup after the reception. The Garden Room will be open until 5:30 p.m. for you to retrieve your banner (and equipment).

o If your church has been asked by your area Dean to provide a set of equipment (processional cross and torches), this will be moved by the movers at the same time the banners are moved. Be certain that all equipment and stands are labeled.

CHILD CARE

o Child care for children up through age 5 will be provided at the Cathedral. Parents are asked to register their children in advance by calling the Cathedral at 505-247-1581, extension 1581 (the nursery). Please leave your name, the names and ages of your children, and a call-back number.

o In order to facilitate dropping children off at the Cathedral safely, please pull up in front of the building on Silver Street. A drop-off lane will be provided specifically for this.

From the Bishop Elect

2010-10-05T20:38:00.002-06:00

September, 2010

"SAY, SPEAK LORD FOR YOUR SERVANT IS LISTENING"

1 SAMUEL 3: 9

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Years ago in my former parish I remember a young agitated mother telling, or should I say trying to teach her son, not to talk so much. In fact I am coming to the conclusion that most mothers are fond of teaching their loquacious children the importance of listening before they speak. My former parishioner said to her son: “God gave you two ears and only one mouth, so that you can listen twice as much as you talk!” I certainly appreciated the message. This is a memorable comment and very good spiritual advice for adults as well as children. Perhaps this truism has been forgotten, after all we do live in a highly sophisticated electronic age in which everywhere we turn someone or something is speaking. We hear voices everywhere; elevators announce the floor, cars tell us our key is still in the ignition or the door is open, greeting cards now speak or sing their message, answering machines tell us who is calling and our cellular phones provoke us to constant talking and text messaging. Listening twice as much as talking is the lesson we learn in the familiar and moving Old Testament story of the elder Eli and the little boy Samuel's night time calling by the Lord. This story’s timely message is a valuable one for all of us especially as we begin the busy church month of September. The message is making time for the importance of LISTENING.

It was nearly three centuries ago, that Soren Kierkegaard said that if he were a medical doctor and was allowed to prescribe just one remedy for all the ills of the modern world, he would prescribe SILENCE. Kierkegaard wrote that even if the word of God were proclaimed, it would not be heard or heeded "for there is too much noise and busyness in our world.” Many of us know or at least are aware that this is uncomfortably true. The world today is a dangerous place and is characterized by stressful global anxiety as nations talk of war rather than listening to voices of diplomacy; people speaking of hatred, discrimination and revenge rather than listening to voices of reconciliation and community; the dissatisfied fanatic wields violence and terror as a loud threatening voice to be heard rather than listening to voices of peace, compromise, problem solving or political negotiations; some world leaders incessantly speak of force and even military might rather than listening to voices of non-violence, advocacy for justice, equity, mercy and LOVE . Speaking critically to this world, where there is too much noise and busyness, the reformer, Martin Luther in his day, insisted that God remains and always will be "a deus loquens" (a speaking God). God's Word cannot be silenced. We are created to LISTEN for God’s call.

Likened to the experience of that young boy Samuel and Eli, it takes time for us to clearly hear and interpret God's word and to fully understand what God calls each one of us to do, to be and to become. St. Paul taught this to the Romans (8:28) saying, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Why is listening/hearing so important for us Christians? Because St. Paul also said to the Romans(10:17) that "faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the Word of Christ.” This September you and I will be very aware of God’s calling and his revelatory purpose for each one of us individually as well as a Diocese. The Rio Grande, as it continues it’s journey of ‘new life and reconciliation,’ is prayerfully and intently listening for the Lord‘s calling according to His purpose. The divine reality we sense and name as God, who is intimately made known to us through his Son Jesus Christ, is revealed shrouded in the mystery of silence and listening. The biblical witness is all about God's calling, His still small voice speaking constantly to all His beloved. The Lord God still calls out to ordinary people like you and me and in our hearing and listening by grace we finally come to partial understanding. Creation after all is a speech event. When God's Word is spoken and we hear it, we inevitably change, grow and become a new creation. God’s voice is audible sound to our spiritual ears and souls which are both uniquely created to listen. Psalm 29 makes this explicit; “The voice of the Lord is powerful, the voice of the Lord is full of majesty” (3,4). Thanks be to God we are created to be a LISTENING PEOPLE.

It took both Eli and Samuel, the aged experienced servant and the youthful inexperienced servant, three times before they were able to be still and clearly acknowledge God's Word. My former parishioner gave her son good advice which I cherish and now pass on to you; “God gave us two ears and only one mouth, so that we would listen twice as much as talk.”

Lord Jesus, as we enter this busy month of September seeking your will and purpose for this Diocese, grant us your grace to be able to clearly hear and LISTEN to your calling.

Amen and Bless you all.

Michael+

Jubilee Video

2010-05-16T20:21:00.000-06:00

This is a video that was shown at a jubilee conference in Newark, NJ. Deacon Judith Jenkins spoke of its emotional and social impact. We have copied so that you can view.

http://www.episcopalchurch.org/multimedia/jubilee/#ooid=5uYzVkMTpwTYDgjpLqWKiTFd-cBXwqsM

Time to Get Back To Blogging

2010-05-15T17:10:00.000-06:00

Trusting in the Holy Spirit continues....I had taken a few days to catch my breath after the walk-abouts and the election. Send your interesting news to the site and we will post. We intend to use this format as a way to communicate. We have been in contact with Bishop Elect Vono and we will report on his activities. God Bless and keep checking back.

The Rev. Dr. Robert Harold Whitaker

2010-05-06T21:17:00.000-06:00

The Rev. Dr. Robert H(arold) Whitaker passed away April 24, 2010. He was born December 17, 1918, in Malden, Mass., to Harold Alden Whitaker and Beulah Maud (Ray). An Episcopal priest and educator, he earned a BA–cum laude, New Testament Greek, Gordon College, Mass.; MA, Philosophy, Boston University, and BD–cum laude, Episcopal Divinity School, Cambridge.

His ministry began as a Lay Vicar at St. Paul’s Beachmont, Revere, Mass.; and Asst. Priest at Trinity Church on the Green, New Haven, CT. He began doctoral studies at Harvard and Yale Divinity Schools, but paused his education to serve as Chaplain during WWII at the US Naval Base, Manus, Admiralty Islands; 301st USNCB, Guam; and the USNAB, Tinian, Marianas. After the War, he completed his PhD in Church History at New College, Univ. of Edinburgh, Scotland and was a Visiting Guest Priest at the Cathedral Church of St. Mary. After graduation he was Asst. Prof. of Church History & Philosophy,
St. Andrew’s Theological Seminary–Quezon City, Philippines. In 1952 he was Visiting Assoc. Prof. of Philosophy & Religion, Bexley Hall–Kenyon College, OH. He served as Interim Priest at St. John’s, Bisbee, AZ, and then was Chaplain at the Episcopal Student Foundation, Univ. of Michigan–Ann Arbor, where he met and married Eunice Ngit Kwai Tom in 1956. During their courtship and first year of marriage he served as Assoc. Priest at Grace Church, Mt. Clemens, MI.

In 1957 he helped found the School of Theology (SoT) of the Diocese of MI, and served as dean and director of studies. Upon his retirement in 1985, the school was renamed The Robert H Whitaker School of Theology. During his years at the SoT, he was known for his ecumenical work. He served as Secretary for the Lutheran‐Episcopal Dialogue, was Adj. Prof. of Ecumenism, St. John Provincial Seminary, Plymouth, MI, and helped establish educational programs for permanent deacons in the local Roman Catholic archdiocese. An outspoken human rights advocate, he hosted Let’s See, a TV talk show on WJBK during the civil rights movement, and marched with 400,000 people in Detroit in the days of Martin Luther King, Jr. He was Chairman of the Board of Examining Chaplains, served on the Exploratory Comm. on the Feasibility of Ecumenical Theological Education in Greater Detroit, was Adj. Prof. at Univ. Detroit, and Priest‐in‐Charge for 15 yrs at Church of Our Saviour, Detroit. He completed a 3rd MA at Univ. of Windsor, ONT, CAN ‘69, and then served as Adj. Prof. of New Testament & Christian Thought.

During his “retirement” in NM he continued to serve the Church as Interim Priest at St. Chad’s (ABQ),
St. Simon’s (Rio Rancho), Epiphany (Socorro), and as Supply Priest at St. John’s Cathedral (ABQ). On March 22, 2010, he celebrated the 66th anniversary of his ordination as a priest. He was active in the community as an usher at Albuquerque Little Theatre and Popejoy Hall, and served as President, Treasurer and Board Member of Pueblo Los Cerros (Corrales) until moving to La Vida Llena LifeCare Community.
A patient and loving husband, father, grandfather and brother, he enjoyed reading, gardening, swimming, and his Siamese cats. He is survived by Eunice, his wife of over 53 years; daughters—Maria of Ann Arbor, MI; Monica of ABQ, NM; Martha (Jim Leenhouts) of Tucson, AZ; grandchildren—Isabella Whitaker, and twins Rachel Whitaker & Robert Leenhouts; sister, Ruth (William) Lucas, of Cathedral City, CA.

Memorial services will be held at the Cathedral of St. John, ABQ on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at 1:30 PM,
located at the corner of Silver & Third. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. John’s
Cathedral Endowment, St. Chad’s Foundation (ABQ), The Robert H Whitaker School of Theology (Detroit), Breakfast at St. Andrew’s (Ann Arbor) or the educational institution of your choice.

Michael_Vono.m4v

2010-05-06T21:08:00.000-06:00

Rev. Ted Howden - A Modern Saint

2010-05-02T21:25:00.000-06:00

I was blessed to be part of the St. Andrew's pilgrimage to the gravesite of Rev. Ted Howden. These devoted Episcopalians journeyed from Roswell to the final resting place of a modern day saint. Rev. Howden is laid to rest in the family plot next to Bishop Howden. (please read the yesterday's post - details Rev. Howden's story.

It was sad to see the gravesite in terrible condition. In this small plot were two men who devoted their lives to Christ and to their fellow man.

The group arrived off the bus and began to "pull weeds."

The group worked at cleaning the grave and sacred site.

We continued working at cleaning

Bishop Howden's Grave

A service was held using the Collects for December 11 - Rev Ted Howden Jr.

The result and the respect.

Bishop Howden's Grave

We will return to care for the site.

Rev. Ted Howden Jr. - Episcopal Church - December 11

The Postings will continue

2010-04-30T19:46:00.001-06:00

The communications teams will continue to post on this blog, the website and the "new and improved" upcoming editions of Together. Keep checking back on a weekly basis for the latest on the consecration and video updates from Bishop Elect Vono. In the interim, I will post the latest information on the the Diocese.

Tomorrow, I am meeting the group from St. Andrew's in Roswell. They are making a pilgrimage to Fr. Howdens gravesite in Albuquerque. I will join them and provide pictures. Following the prayers and service, it is off to St. Michael for the lay pastoral retreat and mass. Look for the pictures and if you would like to have events posted on the blog, send to me or the diocese.

Blessings,

Fr. Daniel Gutierrez

Information on Fr. Howden
The Rev. Frederick B. ‘Ted’ Howden
Priest--Soldier--Martyr, d. December 11, 1942

(Day of Commemoration, December 11)

Frederick Bingham Howden, known to his family as Ted, was born January 27, 1902 in Cumberland, Maryland, one of seven children of the Rev. Frederick B. Howden, Sr. and Angelica Constance Faber Howden. He was twelve years old when his father was consecrated Bishop of the Missionary District of New Mexico and Southwest Texas, and the family moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico. He attended preparatory school at the Kent School in Kent, Connecticut, graduated in 1925 from Yale University, and then completed three years of seminary training at General Theological Seminary in New York City. His father ordained him Deacon at St. Clement’s Church in El Paso, Texas on June 10, 1928 and Priest, also at St. Clement’s, on January 13, 1929.

Immediately thereafter, Fr. Howden was called to serve as the Rector of St. Andrew’s Church in Roswell, New Mexico. During his tenure at St. Andrew’s he served as Vicar to Lincoln County Episcopalians from 1929 through 1941, and as a supply priest to St. Paul’s Church in Artesia, New Mexico. He also held occasional services in the developing towns of Hobbs and Lovington, and served as the Chaplain at the New Mexico Military Institute. On April 21, 1932 he married Elizabeth Fegan in St. Mark’s Church in San Antonio, Texas.

Beginning in 1929 Fr. Howden led services of Evening Prayer in the schoolhouse in Glencoe and frequently celebrated Holy Communion at the Church of the Transfiguration which met in the Navajo Lodge in Ruidoso, New Mexico. He began a fund-raising drive to build an Episcopal chapel in Lincoln County, the result of which was St. Anne’s Chapel in Glencoe. It is now the oldest Episcopal Church in Lincoln County, and at the time of its consecration on June 3, 1934 was the only protestant church of any denomination within the 150 miles between Roswell and Alamogordo.

When World War II broke out Fr. Howden held the rank of Captain in the New Mexico State Guard, and was the Chaplain to the 200th Coast Artillery when it was federalized and sent to the Philippine Islands early in 1942. A friend who was with him daily said he was always walking over the hills of Bataan holding open air services here and there and doing everything possible to help the men who affectionately called him “Chappy”. He was, however, a real soldier as well as a chaplain which all the more gained him admiration and respect as he moved from battery to battery, holding services and distributing candy, soap, and cigarettes he had foraged for the troops. He was a spiritual presence to his men, and in him they saw demonstrated love, goodness of life, and joy in serving others in the Lord’s name and for His sake.

At the Fall of Bataan and Corregidor to Japanese forces in April 1942, Fr. Howden and his fellow soldiers were made prisoners of war and were forced to endure the Bataan Death March during which some 18,000 died. During imprisonment in several prison camps including Camp O’Donnell and Cabanatuan and finally at Davao Prison Colony on Mindanao, his heroism and faith were always apparent through the humanitarian care he gave to those he served. At great cost to himself he often gave his own portion of food to others whom he insisted needed it more than he.

Fr. Howden died of dysentery and starvation-induced pellagra on December 11, 1942, but his family were not notified until June 1943. He was buried by his men in a small cemetery in the shadow of the Mindanao jungle a mile or so from the camp at Davao. After the war, in 1948, his remains were reinterred in an Albuquerque, New Mexico cemetery.

The prayer that Fr. Howden wrote for the cadets at New Mexico Military Institute was printed for many years in the cadet handbook.

Our Father in heaven, inspire, we beseech Thee, all members of this School with directness of purpose in the training of body, mind and spirit that we may better serve Thee, our country, and our fellowmen. Give us the vision to know the right, and the courage to follow after it. Strengthen us with might by Thy Spirit for the duties of life before us. And grant that we may so lay to heart the lessons of training and discipline here that we may always continue Thy faithful soldiers and servants unto life’s end. Amen.

A Message from the Vestry at St. Paul's Rome

2010-04-28T18:12:00.000-06:00

To the people of the Diocese of the Rio Grande:

Blessings and greetings to you on this day, the feast of the Good Shepherd and the anniversary of Italian Liberation. Our hearts are joined with yours in joyful prayer as we celebrate the election of our beloved Rector, The Rev. Dr. Michael L. Vono, as your new Bishop.

We send you these photos as our gift to you on this momentous occasion, and we will be with you in prayer over the next few months as Fr. Michael+ prepares for his new ministry among you. Please keep us also in your prayers as we move into a phase of transition.

May God bless you all,

Maria Grazia Rizzo (Senior Warden)
Robina Kawungu (Junior Warden)

The Vestry and people of St. Paul’s Within the Walls

Rome, 25th April 2010

Statements by Bishop Elect Vono

2010-04-25T20:40:00.000-06:00

I was born in Providence, RI, the second of four children in a close-knit family. I had a clear sense of vocation from an early age, and my sixteen years of seminary formation included Catholic, Protestant and Anglican theological training. I completed my doctoral degree in Congregational Studies in 1986. My spiritual gifts are pastoral care, community building, administration, preaching and evangelism.

As Curate in an inner-city multicultural church, I lived with people in crisis, transition, conflict, and confusion. I learned how to be a shepherd, counselor, and friend, as my parishioners struggled to recognize God in their personal wildernesses. My primary responsibility was to parish and local youth, mostly African and Spanish, as well as to newly married couples and the elderly, visiting hospitals and nursing homes. I came to understand how preaching the Gospel, the sacraments, pastoral care and building community effectively changed lives and inspired hope and faithfulness.

As its Vicar, the ‘bedroom community’ of Christ Church, Leicester taught me the value of living in a spiritually intimate community. I began to concentrate on congregational development, and studied at Hartford Theological Seminary. I learned that I had the pastoral gifts to bring an economic mix of people together, enable pastoral visioning and inspire positive results in conflict management situations. I learned how to be a priest, pastor and teacher at Christ Church. In my twelve years there I learned to appreciate the uniqueness of every relationship and love the complex diversities of the Body of Christ.

Now as Rector of St. Paul’s, Rome, I live and work with people of diverse cultures and religious backgrounds. My church is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, ecumenical and interfaith community. Our ministries include the Joel Nafuma Refugee Center, a sizable Latin American community, service to the elderly poor of the city as well as displaced youth. At the center of our mission and witness is a profound ministry of radical hospitality.

My spiritual and physical disciplines include praying and studying Scripture/theology each morning and taking physical exercise each day. I meet with my spiritual director monthly, and make a monastic retreat each year. I love community gatherings, theatre, music, travel and writing, and nothing invigorates me more than a challenge.

_________

ACCEPTANCE SPEECH TO CONVENTION ON SATURDAY, APRIL 24 (Via Telephone)

Greetings to each and every one of you from the city of Rome, this is Michael Vono ……

At this moment I am overwhelmed by your “ discernment–choice “ to call me as your next Bishop and with profound humility before all of you and before Almighty God , I accept your call ….. trusting with my whole being in the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Today my body may be here across the great pond in Italy , but my heart and my soul are truly now with all of you. May the Lord Jesus bless us and in the days ahead enable each one of us to be “ faithful-servant leaders “ in the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

As the Psalmist rightly says, ‘this is the day the Lord has made…..let us be glad and rejoice in it'. Today I am rejoicing with you and thanking our loving and gracious God for you. God Bless you….. “ beloved people of the Great Shepherd, Jesus… our Lord and Savior “ . I am very much looking forward to being with you very soon! Vaya con Dios. Hasta Luego ! Arrivederci Amici.

STATEMENT OF WILLINGNESS TO SERVE THE PEOPLE OF THE RIO GRANDE

Michael L. Vono+

To my clergy colleagues, the lay delegates, alternates and visitors to Rio Grande’s Discernment Diocesan Convention;

With profound humility before God and the people of Rio Grande, and trusting whole heartedly in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I accept your call to serve. Today I thank the Lord Jesus for our new beginnings and along with each one of you prayerfully hope for and expect the generous blessings of Almighty God as we continue Christ’s mission and ministries in the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

As your chosen Bishop-elect I am enthusiastically looking forward to joining you in the work you have begun, a profound spiritual witness of reconciliation, new life and healing, strengthening the bonds of affection and love in Christ among all God’s people. I look forward to the wonderful life-giving challenges we will undertake together as we live into the Diocese of the Rio Grande’s visionary identity as Christ Jesus’ missionary and transformational people in New Mexico.

We will proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God; we will pray, teach, admonish, Baptize and willingly serve the needs of all Christ’s poor; we will celebrate the Sacraments and at the one table of Christ be nourished by Christ’s body and blood ; by example we will strengthen each other and all God’s people to grow into becoming ‘servant-leaders’; we will inspire and daily encourage Christ’s flock to be a witnessing people of faith, hope, trust, joy and love; we will nurture a spirit of generosity in reaching out to each other and to our neighbors, humbly transcending all superficial differences of this earthly life.

And finally by the grace of God we will clearly see ourselves as one people redeemed by Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross, and in the Risen Lord live as one global Christian family, living into our grace-filled heritage of celebrating our oneness in and through our unique diversity as a dynamic Anglican Communion, respecting the contemporary witness of the Episcopal Church. All this we will do trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and committing ourselves to the apostolic teaching and ministry of Jesus our Lord and Savior. Our challenges will be our greatest blessings.

Now I encourage you, echoing the words of the Prophet Isaiah: “Thus says the Lord God , ‘Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 34: 18-19)

A Final Thank You and Prayer for Our Nominees

2010-04-25T20:33:00.001-06:00

Fr. John and Margaret Nieman

Fr. James and Elizabeth Harlan

Fr. Leander and Claudia Harding

Fr. Jed Holdorph and Barb Morris

Fr. Tuck and Delea Bowerfind

Bishop Elect Michael with

Claudia, Margaret, Barb, Delea and Eli

On behalf of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, thank you for offering your time, faith and love during the Search. You graced us with your laughter, hope, devotion and the answers to the questions that were important to this Diocese. Your willingness to share, brought the people of the Diocese closer. Thank you for sharing your family and time during this process. We can now move forward as a people of God because you have entered our lives. Claudia, Margaret, Barb, Delea and Eli - we were overjoyed by your time in the Diocese.

Our paths will cross again, until then, blessings from the Diocese of the Rio Grande.

O God of unchangeable power and eternal light: Look favorably on your whole Church, that wonderful and sacred mystery; by the effectual working of your providence, carry out in tranquillity the plan of salvation; let the whole world see and know that things which were cast down are being raised up, and things which had grown old are being made new, and that all things are being brought to their perfection by him through whom all things were made, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

And finally from the Ordination of a Priest - we offer this prayer to each one of you for the continuation of your ministry:

May he exalt you, O Lord, in the midst of your people; offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to you; boldly proclaim the gospel of salvation; and rightly administer the sacraments of the New Covenant. Make him a faithful pastor, a patient teacher, and a wise councilor. Grant that in all things he may serve without reproach, so that your people may be strengthened and your Name glorified in all the world. All this we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever.