The steeple Church of the Nativity

October 2018

•CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY, EPISCOPAL• •HUNTSVILLE, AL• •NATIVITY-HSV.ORG•

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CLERGY & STAFF

The Rev. Dr. Virginia Monroe Interim Rector The Rev. Susan Sloan Assisting Priest The Rev. Robert A. Serio, M.D. Deacon The Rev. Dr. Basye Holland-Shuey Spiritual Direction The Rev. Van Foreman Assisting Priest Prentice White Verger/ Wedding Coordinator Christian Crocker Choirmaster and Organist Lane Tutt Adult Christian Formation Amy Brooks Coordinator of Youth Ministry Mary Coe Children’s Formation Lee Anne Bryant Assistant Children & Youth Ministries Coordinator Audrey Clayton Nursery Coordinator Beverly Franklin Finance Manager Amy Kennedy Worship & Ministry Assistant Vicky Hinton Communications Emily Rodgers Administrative Office Assistant John Buyse Property Manager Marlin Wilder Sexton Regina Milton Weekend Sexton Sally Stockton Kitchen Coordinator

AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY A member of the clergy is always on call. If you need assistance from a priest outside office hours, the number to call In Case of an Emergency Only is 256-533-7007. All other calls including church or building and grounds issues should be directed to the main phone 256-533-2455. Leave a message for a priest to respond.

The STEEPLE is published monthly. To submit events or articles email: vhinton@nativity-hsv.org The deadline for the next issue is Monday, October 22, 2018

God’s family at the historic Church of the Nativity is joyfully and energetically committed to sharing Christ’s love and healing by proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel through worship and service to the world.

The steeple

THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY

The Bonner Family sharing memories of

Nativity during our Guest Preacher Series

IN THIS ISSUE

3 THE JIVE HIVE REVIEW

4 175 TRANSFORMING

GENEROSITY

6 VESTRY NOMINATIONS

8 LEARN, PLAY, PRAY

9 FROM THE LOFT

10 OUTREACH IN ACTION

11 ANNUAL BAZAAR

12 FALL SPEAKER SERIES

13 WHAT ARE YOU READING

14 STEWARDSHIP OF

CREATION

15 NATIVITY ARCHIVES

16 UPCOMING EVENTS

17 PARISHIONER NEWS

18 ACOLYTE SCHEDULE

19 WORSHIP SCHEDULE

Friends at going away reception for

The Rev. Bonnie McCrickard

EYC fun at District Day at Good

Shepard in Decatur

Keep us in the know!

Do you have a change of address, email, phone or perhaps major life event?

Contact Emily Rodgers by calling the Church office 256-533-2455 ext.204 or

erodgers@nativity-hsv.org and let us know.

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By Emily Rodgers

The Jive Hive Dinner and Dance Party, celebrating 175 years of

Nativity, was a smashing success! Early reviews include “You guys killed

it tonight. Thanks for such a special evening at Nativity” , “I loved every

minute..thanks to cast, writers, directors…etc.etc.”, “Thanks to you all

who have worked for so long-it was great!”, “Most fun night, I think

Steuart Evans likes being a verger”, “Costume design excellent!”, “I so

hope there will be many more fun nights like this in store for Nativity!”,

“Thanks to all you men and women who made this a memorable

evening”, “It was an absolute ball!”. “I loved it! Nativity, staff,

parishioners and clergy are the very best. What a wonderful, loving

church family we have! We are all so blessed! Praise be to God”, “It was

really a ton of fun! Even when I forgot the words of the third verse and

sang ‘Blah, blah, blah!”.

Many thanks to all who participated in making the evening one of joy and

laughter!

Characters: Loch Neely, John Cline, Don Evans, Bland Warren, Gripp

Luther, Robert Mullins, Don Wheeler, Robert Rodgers, Paul and Barbara

Bonner, David Joffrion, Shirley Hale Stucky, Steuart Evans, Audrey

Clayton, Jewel Reynolds, Mike Knight, Dorrie Nutt, Harvey Cotten, Mike

Ward, Kimberly Rodgers Evie Spearman, Jane Brocato and Marilyn

Evans.

Steeple Hat People: Mary Kate Brooks, Caroline Brooks, Vivian Hinton,

Alice Mae Hinton, Olivia O’Halloran, Fin O’Halloran, Eamonn

O’Halloran, Sarah Coleman Hornsby

Sister Act Choir: Jane Brocato, Amy Brooks, Lee Ann Bryant, Mary Coe,

Amy Creech, Vicky Hinton, Suzy Naumann and Emily Rodgers.

Juke Box: Andy Kelly

Emcee: Lane Tutt

Host and Hostess: Christian Crocker and Sally Ann Culver

Lyricist: Amy Brooks

DJ: Billy Brasfield

Waiter: Scott Hudson

Stage Director: Pat Goodson

Sack Supper: Sally Stockton

Pianists: Christian Crocker and John Lewis

Seamstresses: Lea Ann Barnett, Dottie Crawford and Margaret Devenish

Cashier: Peter Barber

Videographer: Sadler Evans

Photographer: Tom Lydon

To view all the pictures from the event visit the Nativity Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/nativityhsv/.

The Jive Hive Review

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175 Years of Transforming Generosity

In 1843, the Church of Nativity was founded with generosity. This generosity was further affirmed in 1850 when we built our current building to seat nearly 800 when the population of Huntsville was less than 3,000. As the city of Huntsville grew, the Church of Nativity grew with it. But our story is not one of capitalizing on population growth but the transformative power of a church creating a better world and to help each other become better people, to be open to the grace of God in our lives. It is this reason that we are energized by this year’s stewardship theme, “175 Years of Transforming Generosity.” we like it because it has two meanings.

The first way to look at it is that generosity can transform us, our community and our church. When we become financially generous, we can empower the ministry of Nativity and transform the wider community.

The second meaning is that we can transform what generosity looks like. We can define generosity as the way we live our lives and the way our church works in the community. We are called to be generous financially. But we are also called to be generous in the way we welcome newcomers, care for the planet, forgive those who have offended us, and care for our facilities.

This year’s pledge drive is about more than our parish budget. It is about how we transform generosity and allow generosity to transform us. I know our lives can be changed through this work.

In the next few weeks you will be hearing more about how we as a congregation are seeking to grow and answer God’s call. As you know, that will require our investment with both our spiritual and financial gifts. I am asking that you pray about how you want to answer the challenge to grow and I invite you to consider joining me in taking a step up by increasing your financial gift for the coming year.

Please join me as we work together to transform generosity in our church, our community and our lives. Whether you give financially, support ministry through volunteering, or just show up on Sunday Morning, you make this place what is. Faithfully yours in Christ,

David Hardy Chairman, Stewardship Committee

Why I Give?

By Debbie Collette

When I was asked to write about why I pledge, my first thoughts were, “Why

wouldn’t I pledge? Why wouldn’t I give a thank offering to God for his

goodness and as a thank you for all that God has given me?” And why

wouldn’t I give the first fruits of my labors to God through Nativity? This

parish is so special to me. I was confirmed here, my children were baptized

here, and one of my daughters was married here. I have lived life with the

people of Nativity, who are my spiritual family and whom I love dearly. I

have experienced great joys and deep sorrows, while being supported by my

fellow parishioners. I have prayed with, played with, and shared God’s love

with its members. I thank God everyday for my church family and all that we

share within these walls. And I pledge to ensure that we can continue to be the people of God in this place as

we continue our life journeys together. Not only do I love the people of Nativity, I love the beauty of this

historic church. The stained glass, the ancient wood, and the beautiful hymns all enhance my worship

experience and bring me closer to God. (continued page 5)

Debbie Collette (2nd from left) with

her family.

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When I am at the alter receiving communion, I feel the presence of all the Saints who have worshiped on this Holy

Ground for 175 years, raising their voices in joyful thanksgiving to the One who is the giver of all that is good. I

pledge to ensure that this parish family can continue to worship in this place for at least 175 more years, sharing

God’s never ending love not only with each other, but with the children of God outside this place.

And I pledge to support this parish’s wonderful outreach programs. I believe that we strive together as a parish,

with God’s help, to live into our Baptismal Covenant of seeking and serving Christ in all persons and loving our

neighbors as ourselves. Many people outside our walls have been blessed because we want to be Jesus’s hands and

feet in this world. Proverbs 3:9 says “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.” This is

why I pledge! I am grateful to be able to honor God with my thank offering so that I can support this wonderful

parish in all that it undertakes. And I encourage all members to do the same.

How Do I Pledge?

It’s easy! Annual Response cards and Time & Talent cards are located in the pews, in Ridley Hall

and outside the Banister Room. Please make sure to place your cards in the envelopes provided

and return by mail, collection plate or in marked boxes. You can also pledge online! Visit the

Nativity website nativity-hsv.org and select GIVING or CLICK HERE.

NEW Online Giving!

Nativity is excited to announce a new way of giving! ShelbyNEXT Giving is a mobile app available for Android and

iOS mobile devices. You are invited to consider using ShelbyNEXT Giving as an easy, convenient, and secure way to

pay your pledge and to make contributions through the mobile app. Using this method, you can set up ACH

payments through your bank account on your preferred schedule or using your debit/credit card. Make changes at

any time.

GIVE VIA MOBILE APP

Get Set-Up with ShelbyNEXT Giving:

Visit your app store and download the ShelbyNEXT Giving app to your iPhone or Android mobile device. Open the

app, search "Church of the Nativity" and follow prompts to get set up. It's that simple! Please keep in mind that

ShelbyNEXT Giving is simply one more way to give, in addition to placing your pledge in offering plates, sending

through the mail, or current automatic drafts. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Beverly

Franklin at bfranklin@nativity-hsv.org or (256) 533-2455 extension 219.

ONLINE GIVING FAQS

Do I have to use the mobile app in order to give to Nativity? No. The mobile app is simply an addition to other

methods of giving, such as cash/check, automatic withdrawal through ACH or on-line.

What payment options do I have with the mobile app? You may set up mobile giving using ACH transfer or

your debit/credit card.

What all can I give to through the mobile app?

Right now, you may give to the Collection Plate Offering General Fund or Pledge Payment. In the future, Nativity

may add additional options.

Can I schedule my mobile app giving so I don't have to remember each time? Absolutely! To schedule

recurring gifts, simply click on the Recurring icon. You can set up gifts to recur weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly,

etc. Log in at any time to make changes.

More information about online giving is available at nativity-hsv.org.

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Vestry Nominations Slate for 2019 Our parish will come together for one service on Sunday, November 18 at 9:00 am then move to Ridley Hall

for a light breakfast and Annual Parish Meeting. During the meeting the following slate of nominees for the

2019 vestry will be presented for a vote. Children’s activities and nursery will be available.

Virginia Caruso and her husband, Mike, have been members of Nativity since 1986. She has

taken part in the EfM study and been a member of the Spiritual Development Committee for

16 years, serving as Chairman 11 of those years. This will be her second time to serve on the

Vestry. Virginia is a graduate of Vanderbilt University, a former English teacher, and a

supporter/participant in a number of local arts organizations over the years. She and Mike

have 3 grown daughters who grew up at Nativity -- Elizabeth Jones, her husband Chris, and

their 2 children attend Nativity now; Katherine lives in Birmingham, AL; and Leigh lives in St.

Augustine, FL.

Elizabeth Foster is a life long Episcopalian and has been a member of Nativity since 1980. She

is a Realtor with Van Valkenburgh and Wilkinson and was the Christian Formation Director at

Nativity from 2010-2013. She and her husband Lee have 2 children, Margaret(17) and Harry

(13). She graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.S in Human Development. As a

former church employee, she has been involved with many facets of the operations of the

church including budgeting, Parish Weekend, Sunday school, Vacation Bible School and special

events. She serves on the Youth and Children's Council and is a Sunday school teacher.

Virginia Kobler was born in New Mexico but spent her formative years in Florence,

Alabama. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from the University of

Alabama, MBA from UAH and her Doctor of Philosophy in Systems Engineering from

UAH. She retired as a Division Chief in the Strategic Defense Command after 37 years of

employment. Virginia and her husband, Julian, who died in 2015, became members of

Nativity in 1993 when they were part of the confirmation class that year. Virginia serves as a

Lay Eucharistic Minister and is President of the Nancy Lacy Daughters of the King Chapter.

She has served 4 years as Bazaar Treasurer, taught Bible classes, assisted in the church office, and a volunteer in

the learning center. She is the mother of two sons, George, who is an attorney and lives in Huntsville and

Jonathan, a software developer who lives in Marshall County. She has five grandchildren, three of whom still

live in Huntsville. Virginia’s hobbies are genealogy, reading and traveling.

Born in Colbert County, Darren attended the University of Alabama. After obtaining a B.S.

degree in Mechanical Engineering he then met his wife to be, Laura, while getting his M.B.A.

Darren and Laura were married in her childhood church, St. James Episcopal in Eufaula,

Alabama. By the time he finished medical school at UAB in 2003, they had two children, Liddy

(19) and Alice (16). After completing his ophthalmology residency in Little Rock, Arkansas,

their family moved to Huntsville in 2008 to join The Eye Center. Darren and Laura attended

Cursillo in 2012 (#189). Laura is currently serving on the Spirituality Committee and has

taught Sunday school. Alice was confirmed at Nativity and is an acolyte. Darren is involved in The Vine ministry

and serves on the Foundation Board at the Huntsville Museum of Art.

Elizabeth Foster

Virginia Caruso

Virginia Kobler

Darren Malone

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Nicholas joined Nativity in 2013 with his wife, Elizabeth, just after they married and moved

to Huntsville from Lenoir City, TN (just outside Knoxville) for Nick's job with the Boeing

Company. He has B.S. in Electrical Engineering and a B.S. in Computer Engineering from

Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville, TN. Having grown up in the Episcopal Church,

Nick joined the Nativity Seekers class of 2014 to reaffirm his baptismal covenant and then

sponsored confirmands the following three years. He has been active in the Nativity Young

Adults group (YAMS) and served on the Stewardship committee from 2017 to present. He

has two daughters and a newborn son.

Originally from Jackson, Mississippi, Greg and his wife, Elizabeth, moved to Huntsville and

began attending Nativity in 2006. Elizabeth is a 4th generation member of Nativity. Greg was

raised in the Catholic church and was received into the Episcopal church in 2017. During his

time at Nativity, he has served as an EYC advisor, Sunday school teacher, and Usher, has

been involved with the Blue Apron Ministry, and served on the Renewal Works committee.

He and Elizabeth have two boys, who were both baptized at Nativity. Outside of church,

Greg has been a CPA for 15 years and is a partner at Melvin, Bibb, Segars, and Associates. He

enjoys traveling, golf, running, and spending time with his family.

Nick Pate

Greg Whitehead

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We are so excited about celebrating All Saints day on

the mountain with a Folk Mass and potluck. We’ll have

a camp-style service followed by a potluck supper at

the small pavilion (the one by the bluff; look for signs)

at Monte Sano State Park. Park admission is covered;

let the guard at the gate know you are with Church of

Nativity. BBQ pork, paper goods and drinks will be

provided. Plan to bring a side or dessert to share and a

lawn chair. All are welcome for the Folk Mass. If you

plan to stay for the potluck, please RSVP so we can

plan plenty of food. Can’t wait to see you there! RSVP

to mcoe@nativity-hsv.org or 256.533.2455

October 7

No children's Sunday school, chapel or EYC/JYC

2:00 pm St. Francis day pet blessing in the courtyard

October 14

Sunday school, chapel and EYC/JYC resume

October 24

5:30 Family spaghetti supper, Ridley hall. $5/plate;

nursery by reservation

6:00 Fun for kids on Angel Lane, ages 4 years old

through 6th grade.

October 26-28

Fall fling for 5th & 6th graders at Camp McDowell.

Register here (find Fall fling on the chart and “register

here” in link in right hand column)

November 4

3:00 to 5:00 Mountain top Folk Mass and Pot Luck,

Monte Sano State Park.

By Austill Baker & Finola O'Halloran

After Sunday school on September 16, twelve 5th & 6th

graders enjoyed lunch together at Pane e Vino then split

up into groups to visit some of the older members of our

parish. Finola O'Halloran and Austill Baker shared their

experiences with us.

Senior visits are a time to visit and learn about the

seniors in my church community. During senior visits, I

met Mrs. Diehl. She lives in Brookdale at Jones Farm.

She talked about her daughter and her grandkids, the

paintings on her wall, and switching from a house to her

apartment now. I always enjoy senior visits and it’s fun

to learn about their lives and their families.

-Finola O’Halloran

I really enjoyed going on Senior visits to meet older

members of Nativity. I visited Mr. Lacky. He told us a

lot of stories. It was fun talking with him about his time

at Nativity, his retirement, and hummingbirds. I had fun

and look forward to going on Senior visits again.

-Austill Baker

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EYC District Day

By Amy Brooks

The Nativity EYC participated in the 2018

Diocesan District Days on September 16th. We

traveled to Church of the Good Shepherd in

Decatur, where we were joined by youth groups

from several parishes in the North Alabama District.

This year’s theme was Color Splash! It was an

afternoon of fun games, food, and fellowship! We

are proud of our very own Youth Department

representative Sara Hutchens, and Youth Advisor

Spencer Anglin for helping plan and lead this event.

What is YD? Here is a brief description pulled from

the diocesan website.“Eleven youth (9th-12th grade

students) elected by their peers to represent the

Episcopal Youth Community in the Diocese of

Alabama. Elections are hosted during EYC

Convention as part of our annual Rites of Spring

youth event. The Youth Department

(YD) is a Diocesan department

coordinated by the Diocesan Youth

Ministries Coordinator and made up of

the eleven elected high school youth, as

well as adult advisors and a Chaplain

appointed by the Bishop. The YD serves

to create opportunities for Diocesan-

wide youth community building by

implementing welcoming and

formational events throughout the

year.”

For more information on what the

Youth Department does and how to get

involved, visit www.dioala.org.

UPCOMING DATES

October 7 No JYC/EYC Have a fun Fall Break!

October 14 4:00 pm JYC

5:00 pm EYC

October 21 Trip to the Corn Maze at Lyons Farm

SIGN UP HERE

October 28 4:00 pm JYC

5:00 pm EYC

Questions? Contact Amy Brooks 256-509-7783 or

abrooks@nativity-hsv.org.

Pictured above: Nativity EYC friends having fun at

EYC District Days!

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By Lane Tutt

Sunday morning classes for adults will begin Sunday,

October 7th. We have several wonderful classes for you

to choose from! Please contact Lane Tutt if you have any

questions ltutt@nativity-hsv.org or 256-533-2455.

Social Justice Class (Banister Room) The Social Justice

class is focused on looking at today's events through the

principles of our faith: seeking for the service lessons

each Sunday to guide attention, advocacy and action as

we engage with the world. In Parker Palmer's Healing the

Heart of Democracy, we will be examining today's politics

from the perspective "better to be in right relationship

than to be right." Led by Jennifer Dill, Jackie Sheldon,

and Bill Starnes and coordinated by Freya Neely.

Zimmerman Bible Study (Joffrion Hall Library) This

year we will study Romans 12 -16 and Philippians 1 & 2.

Led by Elise Taylor, The Rev. Basye Holland-Shuey and

The Rev. Deacon Bob Serio.

The Book Class ( Ridley Hall ) Led by Ted Briggs,

Lynne Vallely, Walter Thames, Buddy Moon, Rick

Wilhoite, Darlene Ehinger. More information coming

soon!

The Breakfast Club – (Joffrion Hall, 2nd floor west)

This class will use the book The Eight Habits Of Love by

Ed Bacon, as their guide for casual discussion each

Sunday morning. Led by Emily Rodgers and Amy Creech.

NEW! Chat and Chew (Children’s Library on Angel

Lane, formerly Bible Improv) A drop in Sunday school

class for parents of younger children, located right on

Angel Lane. Chat and Chew has no ongoing curriculum,

but each week an article or idea on parenting, faith in

families or modern struggles will be presented for

discussion, or bring your own topic to the table!

Coordinated by Iana Ham.

Adult Christian Formation This Fall

Outreach in

Action By Jennie Coe

Meals on Wheels is a nationwide program

providing a hot nutritious meal daily ( Monday thru

Friday ) to seniors 60 yrs or older who are primarily

home bound, live on their own, and are unable to

cook for themselves. Income is not a factor.

The program is non profit and is supported by

donations from churches, businesses and other

organizations.

Meals on Wheels is not just a food delivery

service. It also provides interaction with a caring

person daily. Sometimes, a few minutes chatting

with the volunteer may be the only human contact

the client has all day. Volunteers also report any

client who seem to need emergency assistance.

Huntsville currently serves more than 230 clients

and needs 600

volunteers a

month. Nativity

has 20 regular

volunteers and a

few subs who

deliver meals the

third Thursday of

every month.

Nativity has

supported Meals

on Wheels for 45

years. Your generous

support of the budget

allows the Outreach

committee at Nativity to donate $6000 to Meals on

Wheels annually.

For more information contact the Senior Center

@256-382-0920 or jglynn@seniorview.com or

Jennie Coe 256-883-6398 or ronjcoe@yahoo.com.

Jeanie Glynn (left) receiving a

donation from Nativity Outreach

committee for Meals on Wheels from

volunteer Jennie Coe (right).

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The 2018 Nativity Bazaar is Joining Nativity’s

175th Birthday Celebration!!!!

We are familiar with Nativity’s fabulous Bazaar luncheon, bountiful bake sale,

generous prize drawing items up for grabs, and of course, that warm

hospitality. This year, in celebrations of our 175th year, the 2018 Bazaar

Committee has added some NEW events!

The Village of Promise will be the beneficiary from the proceeds of our 2018

Nativity Bazaar (luncheon, bake sale, greenery sale, and two classes). The

Village of Promise is a local family advancement center which works tirelessly

to break the cycle of poverty one Huntsville neighborhood at a time. For

more information regarding this worthy organization please visit their website

at villagepromise.com. We look forward to seeing you in November!

THROUGH OCTOBER 28TH

NEW! HOLIDAY GREENERY SALE Pre-order fresh wreaths and garlands for the holidays through Sunday, October

28th. Items will be available for pick up on Saturday, December 1st. CLICK HERE to order wreaths online, or order

in person on Sunday mornings in Ridley Hall. After October 28th sales will be on an “as available” basis from the

supplier.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH

ANNUAL TAST OF NATIVITY Join us for the 6th Annual Taste of Nativity Thursday, November 8th from 6:00-8:00

pm at the home of Sally & Carter Stockton. This will be a spirited evening of sweet and savory treats prepared by

Nativity cooks & famous chefs. Proceeds from this event will benefit our Children & Youth Programs at the church

and in the community. Casual dress, hors d'oeuvres, wine, beer. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets online or contact

Lea Ann Barnett leabarn@comcast.net.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH (BAZAAR DAY)

ANNUAL BAKE SALE The bake sale will open at 10:00 am in Joffrion Hall. Items available for sale will include baked

goods, frozen soups and casseroles, jams and jellies, pickles and more. To donate baked goods SIGN UP HERE or

contact Camille Sommers at cjlsommer@yahoo.com.

NEW! HOLIDAY BOW MAKING WITH DESIGNER RANDY ROPER Class will be in Bibb Chapel at 10:00. Cost is $10

per person.

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON SEATINGS Join us in Ridley Hall at 11:15 or 12:30 for a delicious holiday. Pre-ordered take-

out lunches are also available.

NEW! PAINT A PIECE OF NATIVITY WITH ARTIST LESLIE LOCKHART Class will be in Bibb Chapel at 12:30 pm.

Cost is $25 per person.

SEATING FOR LUNCHEON & CLASSES IS LIMITED MAKE YOUR

RESERVATIONS TODAY!

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets online or contact

Marilyn Grundy at 256-509-9962 or mtgrundy@yahoo.com.

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CLICK HERE FOR THE SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT NEWSLETTER, WHERE YOU WILL FIND INFORMATION

ABOUT LOCAL AND REGIONAL RETREATS, CLASSES AND CONFERENCES DESIGNED TO ENHANCE YOUR

SPIRITUAL JOURNEY.

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What are you Reading? By Mary Johnson

Bread and Wine by Shana Niequist

I have a beautiful daughter-in-law who loves, more than most anything, to eat.

She has always been athletic and so could get away with indulging-up until

approaching middle age. She now has a struggle, as many of us do. She

happened to mention to me that she loved this book, Bread & Wine, by Shana

Niequist, a similar struggler.

This book is a love letter to life around the table with family and friends and the

way God teaches and nourishes us as we nourish the people around us. She

reminds us that Jesus’s pictures of the Kingdom of God portray the great

banquet again and again. He has given us the gift of bread and wine to

experience His presence and communion with us.

The book has recipes. I fixed “Annette’s Enchiladas” for my family and they all pronounced it “yummy”.

Bread and Wine will make you hungry—not just for food, but for life and love to the full.

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Stewardship of

Creation By David Chadwick

Have you ever noticed that when you are walking along

the canal behind the Embassy Suites, back towards

downtown, that the steeple of the Church of the Nativity

is perfectly framed by the two bridges over the canal and

the skyline of downtown Huntsville? If I remember to lift

up my eyes at the right time, it’s a pretty picture I see on

my early morning run, and on a good day the rosy glow of

dawn over Monte Sano adds to the scene. It’s a powerful

reminder of the beauty of God’s creation at the start of the

day.

We moved to downtown Huntsville a few months ago, so

instead of running up and down suburban streets, I now

have more variety to see on my early morning runs. My

standard route takes me through city parks, alongside train

tracks, through low income housing areas, around the

courthouse square and through the leafy splendor and

grand mansions of streets like Franklin and Adams. I see

people sleeping rough under bridges, lawyers hurrying in

early to work with piles of important papers, partygoers

who haven’t made it home yet, and the unsung city

sanitation workers picking up trash and making our city

pristine for the new day. I love the diversity packed

together in downtown Huntsville, something to be

appreciated and cherished.

The diversity of God’s creation in nature is something to

be appreciated and cherished too. In the United States, we

are blessed with amazing forests, prairies, deserts,

mountains, rivers and coastlines. These are places that can

add to the richness of our lives and for me, and I hope for

you too, places where we can feel close to God. We hear

so much today about the growth in GDP, and how 4% is

so much better than 3%. But if this growth is at the

expense of clean air and clean water, or opening up

previously protected areas to mining and fracking, or

cutting down old-growth forests, it will leave behind a

poorer, less diverse environment for our children. We

should question if that extra 1% is really worth it, or could

be achieved in a more sustainable way.

As Ezekiel 34.18 suggests, God entrusts us with the care of

his creation and reminds us to cherish what he has given

us. Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, that you must

tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture; and to drink of

clear water, that you must muddy the rest of the water with your feet?

GARDEN GUILD WORK DAY

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4

8:00 AM

BRING YOUR GARDEN GLOVES!

FAMILY FARM TO TABLE WEEKEND

November 16- 18, 2018

Enjoy a family friendly weekend of fun, food, and

fellowship on the farm at Camp McDowell! All

combinations and interpretations of families are welcome

to experience this special retreat focused on the care of

creation in the beauty of "God's Backyard".

Camp McDowell is beautiful in the fall! Rejuvenate your

spirit in the clean, cool air; walk through our woods, play

in our pastures, and watch the sunset over Sloan Lake.

The feeling is easy-going, and the results will be

restorative!

Our knowledgeable farm staff will guide you in planting,

harvesting, and food preparation activities, as well as

hands-on care of McDowell farm animals. We have goats,

chickens, pigs, and rabbits. And, make no mistake, we are

very serious about having fun!

To Register, CLICK HERE

This event is recommended for ages 6 and up.

15

Celebrating 175 Years Nativity

Archives – Our Great Historical Resource By Bobbie Graham

A relatively unknown resource at Nativity is the vast

collection of historical records held in the Archives

Room on the second floor of the Church office. Thanks

to a group of researchers and planners who, 20 years

ago, spent countless hours reading, sorting, and

organizing papers, pamphlets, books, financial

documents, bulletins, announcements, and photos

collected over a 155-year period. Since then, new

materials have been continuously added, and currently

these valuable records serve those planning the 175th

anniversary celebration.

The most thorough sets of documents are birth,

confirmation, wedding, burial, and vestry meeting

records in hardcopy and digital format. Other record

categories include old Bibles, architectural drawings for

building additions and restorations, biographies of

rectors, financial information, church member

directories, histories of groups and organizations,

seasonal programs, and special event materials.

All records have been conscientiously filed and are

available to those searching for data during the years

1843 (and earlier) to the present. An index provides a

numbering system to inform searchers of the location of

a box, case, notebook, or other document holder. Within

each box or case, materials are filed in chronological

order with the most recent materials filed in the front.

Rare items cannot be removed from the archives area,

nor can any Vestry Minutes, Baptisms, Confirmations,

Marriages, Burials Records, and other irreplaceable

items. Copies of these materials may be made in the

Nativity office. This system ensures accountability for

everything and is closely monitored so that losses do not

occur. The archives room is locked at all times, and can

be accessed by one of the three archivists (Bobbie

Graham, Lora Arnold, and Jim Payne). Anyone wishing

to search for information can contact one of them, then

set up a time to visit the archives room. The archivist

will be present to assist individuals or groups in their

search.

Church members and visitors are encouraged to contact

one of the archivists for more information or to get a

brief tour of the archives collection room. We are

grateful for the those who worked so diligently in the

early 2000’s to professionally develop, organize, and

index the enormous collection of historical records

accumulated over

the 175-year life

of Nativity.

Special

appreciation is

extended to

George Mahoney,

Ann Cochran

(deceased), and

Lawrence Lacy

(deceased), and

others for the

time, effort, and

dedication that

this exceptional

resource

represents.

IN THE BANISTER ROOM

Special thanks to Pride

Sherrill who created a

colorful display

(pictured right) in the

Banister room

celebrating of 175 years

of Nativity. The church’s

history is us. Rectors have

come and gone but we are the hands and feet of the church. We

support the staff ( office volunteers). We support the worship services

(LEMS, lectors, ushers, altar guild, flower guild, intercessors, choir).

We support each other (home visitation, home communion, blue

apron, Sunday school teachers, feed my sheep). We support the

community with Greene Street Market and outreach. We support

our historic property, inside and out. We support the community on

our own in countless ways that others never see. We are the hands

and feet of Jesus Christ. Pride Sherrill.

Pictured above: The Rev. John Monro

Banister served as Nativity’s rector for 45

years (1860-1905), the longest of all the

rectors who have served Nativity.

16

Upcoming Events

HAP Sunday is October 7th

Items needed include

mac and cheese, tuna,

spam, canned fruit,

boxed meals, boxed

potatoes, peanut butter and 1

pound bags of rice and beans. Place

items in HAP bins located in Ridley

Hall and the breezeway. Thank you!

Men’s Monthly Breakfast

Tuesday, October 9 at

7:00 am in Ridley

Hall. Linese Arnold,

Executive Director the the North

Alabama Coalition for the

Homeless will be our guest

speaker. Simple Eucharist at 6:30 in

Bibb Chapel.

The Mission Guild

Monday, October 15 at

10:00 am, Joffrion

Library. We will have a

short meeting and then proceed to

Nancy Morris Funeral at 11:00.

Please do not forget to bring bingo

prizes for the Aquarius Club.

Daughters of the

King Tuesday,

October 16 at 11:30

in Ridley Hall. We

will have lunch together, and we

will discuss our book The Sabbath

by, Abraham-Joshua-Heschel‘s.

Stations of the Cross Thursday,

October 25 Meet outside Bibb

Chapel following the 6:00 pm

service. All are welcome!

NEW Bridge Group! An Audrey

Grant Bridge class will begin

Tuesday, October 9, from 9:00-

11:00 in the Banister Room.

Come join the fun! This is a great

way to get to know your church

neighbors better while learning the

latest rules of playing Bridge, the

Audrey Grant way. If you have

played bridge in the past and just

need a refresher course, grab 3

friends and a card table and come

join the fun! Let us know if we can

count on you. Connie Ruth

Thompson Thombama@gmail.com

and Dottie Crawford

dotcrawford2@gmail.com.

2018 Altar Flower Dedications

Your Name:_____________________ Phone #: __________________

Dates Available: Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Name(s) for dedication: _____________________________________________________

Please choose one:

__ in loving memory of… __in thanksgiving for… __in celebration of… __in honor of...

Will you share this dedication? ___YES ___NO Can we list your name in the bulletin? ___ YES ___NO

Dedications are $40 each or $20 if shared.

Make check payable to: Nativity Flower Guild and mail your check along with this form to:

Andrea Vandervoort 434 Locust Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801

Questions Call Andrea: 256-539-2673

ALL SAINTS’ MEMORIAL DEDCIATIONS

All Saints’ Sunday is November 4, 2018. Dedications for the garden guild are a

wonderful way to support the work done by the garden guild members. These

gifts help with the purchase of annual and perennial flowers, shrubbery, trees, and

mulch. This is a splendid time to make a dedication in memory of a loved one.

These gifts help to enhance the memorial garden and all other areas of the

Nativity grounds. PLEASE MAKE YOUR DONATION BY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21ST TO BE

INCLUDED IN THE SPECIAL ALL SAINTS SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICE INSERT.

Checks should be made to Church of Nativity with annotation, Garden Guild. If you have questions, please

contact Lane Tutt 256-653-7200 or ltutt@nativity-hsv.org.

17

Prayer Requests & Parish News PRAYERS FOR HEALING IN

BODY, MIND OR SPIRIT:

Warren Towry

Steve Brouse

Donna Rush

Fisher Hutchens

Alex Fague

Cheryl Carter

Prentice White

Joe East

Bill Nettles

Leigh Wahl

Kevin Wahl

Ron Cook

Kitty Simmons

Beth McCormick

Bob Anderson

Charles Smith

Shirley Cobun

Tom Booth

Phyllis Beck

Margaret Lichty

Jody Mowrer

Ted Bledsoe

Heidi Foreman

FOR THE NEWLY MARRIED:

Leila Hergert and Dru Murphree, Jr.

TRANSFERS IN: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:7 Barbara and Bill Strain, Anthony,

Summer and Wren Guffey

TRANSFERS OUT: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. Numbers 6:24-25 Angie and Sam Yeager to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Franklin, TN

WE GIVE THANKS FOR THE

SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS OF

OUR CHILDREN:

10/4 Tessa Dollman

10/4 Macie Meyer

10/7 Aubrey Ritchie

10/8 Laura Kate Evans

10/9 Sarah Whelden Hall

10/13 Ellie DeFiore

10/15 Carter Proud

10/20 Amelia Rosler

10/21 Beirne Spragins

10/21 Adam DePiano

10/21 Phoebe Duncan

10/23 William Keener

10/25 James Overstreet

10/26 Waring Cantey

10/27 Evan Brown

10/28 Piper Smith

10/28 Ethan Dawes

10/29 Davis Manning

10/30 Grace Molloy

10/30 Charles Warren, II

10/31 William Post

SPECIAL THANK YOU

Dear Friends,

Thank you so much for the

wonderful send-off and the very

generous cash gift. I am so grateful

our paths have crossed, and to have

shared this time of ministry with you!

My prayers for Nativity continue.

God's Peace,

Bonnie and Matthew McCrickard

18

Acolyte Schedule October 2018

Sunday, October 7

8:45 A/M Ward

C Evelyn Warren, EJ Duncan

T Daniel Starnes, Phoebe Duncan

T Vivian Hinton, Caroline Brooks

S Charles Warren

AS Alton Hudson

11:00 A/M Nutt

C Dylan Chenoweth

T JB Stockton, Carter Watson

S JB Stockton

AS Carter Watson

Sunday, October 14

8:45 A/M Sherrill

C Joshua Huskey

T Macy Baker, Alec Huskey

T Jacks McClung, Ty Voisine

S Clay Walker

AS Clara Keener

11:00 A/M Sherrill

C Betsy Bryant

T Mary E Alison, Madelyn Alison

S Betsy Bryant

AS Evans Bryant

Sunday, October 21

8:45 A/M Putt

C Elizabeth Evans, SW Hall

T Drew Dodgen, Cooper Gunter

T Anna Mullins, Olivia O’Halloran

S AK Ayres

AS RJ Ragland

11:00 A/M Nutt

C Riley Kamelchuk

T Laura Kamelchuk

T Catherine Hendricks

S Riley Kamelchuk

AS Catherine Hendricks

Sunday October 28

8:45 A/M Ward

C Thomas Aldag, Parker Sanders

T Maggie Sanders, Britt Webber

T Ellie Webber, Alana Boyce

S Alice Malone

AS Thea Sommer

11:00 A/M Sherrill

C Patrick Ahearn, MM Creech

T SC Hornsby, Emery Windham

S Alex Ahearn

AS Caroline Hornsby

Fall break hits us hard this month,

as many acolytes travel during the

break from school. If you’re in

town and at church, please stop by

the back hallway to see if we need a

last minute sub. (And by that, I

mean a last 15 minute sub!) It will

really help the Acolyte masters avoid

panic if everyone can arrive no later

than 10 minutes before the service

starts—15 would be even better!

Thanks for your part in this

important ministry at Nativity!

19

Worship Schedule

20

Almighty God, giver of every good gift: look graciously on your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a

rector for Nativity that we may receive a faithful pastor who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries;

through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen

WARDENS’ COUNCIL

Senior Warden-Donald Christian

Junior Warden-Grant Thomson

Treasurer-Paul Bonner

Assistant Treasurer-Don Evans

Finance Chair-Jason Angelichio

Clerk of the Vestry-Dottie Crawford

Member at Large-Wendy Wilson

VESTRY LIAISONS

Adult Christian Formation & Spiritual Development-

Margaret Gleason

Building & Grounds- Bob Thompson

Children’s Christian Formation-Teresa Pinson

Communications and Technology-Shirley Hale Stucky

Hospitality and Welcoming-Jeff Johnson

Ministry of Worship and Music-Dorrie Nutt

Outreach-Don Evans

Parish Entities-Don Lambert

Parish Life-Fisher Hutchens

Pastoral Care-Kim Huskey

Stewardship-Michael Shipley

Trust and Endowments-Wendy Wilson

Youth Christian Formation-Shari Williams

Youth Representative-Sara Hutchens

Church of the Nativity, Episcopal 208 Eustis Avenue SE Huntsville AL 35801 256.533.2455 Fax: 256.533.2374 nativity-hsv.org

Vestry member Shirley Hale as

Dr. Frances Jones in Nativity

Through the Years

2018 VESTRY