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POHICK POST

Pohick Episcopal Church


9301 Richmond Highway • Lorton, VA 22079
Telephone: 703-339-6572 • Fax: 703-339-9884

Let your light so shine (Matt. 5:16)


JULY 2010
there was no change in the underlying DNA. These
From The Rector traits were passed on to subsequent generations of
The Reverend mice, even when the parents were taken off the vita-
Donald D. Binder, PhD mins.
Such effects are by no means limited to mice.
Studies over the past decade have linked dietary de-
(GxE) ficiencies and cigarette smoking in humans to health

Although not yet widely known, the above scien- effects across generations, again with no change in the
tific expression may become as revolutionary in the underlying DNA.
21st century as the formula E=MC2 was in the 20th. These studies and others like them are providing a
The letters stand for Genes multiplied by Environ- measure of vindication for 19th century theorist Jean-
ment. And as reported in Time Magazine earlier this Baptiste Lamarck, who suggested a robust interac-
year (“Why DNA Isn’t Your Destiny,” Jan. 6 edition), tion between heredity and the environment. Darwin’s
discoveries being made in the new scientific field of competing theories of mutation and natural selection
Epigenetics are leading geneticists to rethink basic subsequently consigned Lamarckian ideas to the dust-
assumptions about hereditary transmission that have bin. Now it appears both men were right: Darwin for
been around since Mendel and Darwin in the 19th the genome, which may be thought of as the hardware
Century. of genetics, and Lamarck for the epigenome, which
The basis of this new paradigm contends with might be considered as the more malleable software.
the fact that DNA makes up only about half of the While it will take geneticists at least the rest of
chromosome. The other half consists of genetic mate- this century to realize fully the implications of this
rial known as the epigenes which function to turn on paradigm shift, it is already clear that there is a much
and off the expression of individual genes. But while more dynamic interaction between genetics and the
DNA is highly resistant to environmental influences, environment than previously thought.
epigenes regularly interact with them, changing in the That is good news on several fronts. In the field of
process. Moreover, those changes can be transmitted genetic medicine, for example, it is much easier to cre-
across generations. ate drugs that interact with epigenetic markers than
And so, for example, in a 2003 study, pregnant to make splices in DNA. Since 2004, the FDA has
yellow mice were given a B-vitamin complex that approved four such epigenetic drugs which work by
is known to interact with epigenes functioning as instructing markers to switch off certain genes that
switches for DNA controlling fur color and diabe- cause disease. As the Time article reflects, “The great
tes. The pups were born with brown fur and were less
prone to diabetes than the control group, even though Continued on page 2
Page 2 • July 2010 Pohick Episcopal Church

From the Rector: continued from page 1


hope for ongoing epigenetic research is that with the flick of a biochemical switch, we could tell genes that play
a role in many diseases - including cancer, schizophrenia, autism, Alzheimer’s, diabetes and many others - to lie
dormant. We could, at long last, have a trump card to play against Darwin.”
This shift is also good news in the field of education, the major focus of science writer David Shenk’s 2010
book, The Genius in All of Us: Why Everything You’ve Been Told About Genetics, Talent, and IQ is Wrong. Drawing
upon the most recent epigenetic research, as well as genetic studies on IQ and “giftedness,” Shrenk concludes,
“Like intelligence, talents are not innate gifts, but the result of slow, invisible accretion of skills developed from
the moment of conception. Everyone is born with differences, and some with unique advantages for certain tasks.
But no one is genetically designed into greatness and few are biologically restricted from attaining it” (p. 43).
Speaking as a Christian theologian, for me this verdict is more in keeping with New Testament notions of
the nearly unlimited human potential for personal growth and transformation in Christ than those inspired by
the pall of genetic determinism that has been cast over Western thinking for nearly a century. Here, we need only
reflect upon the dramatic transformation in the lives of the humble followers of Jesus whose bold witness quickly
set the world on fire, or of the immortal words of St. Paul, who wrote, “I can do all things through [Christ] who
strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).
As Christians, we have long embraced such ideas through faith. As well-informed observers of contemporary
research, it is nice to know that these same notions are now beginning to find a modicum of support from the
world of science.

My family and I will be vacationing from the second week of July through the first week of August. Upon my
return, I will be offering a Bible Study on the Epistle of James over four weeks (August 15 - September 5) in the
Parish House Annex between the two services (9:00 am - 9:45 am). I hope you can join me!

TTFF - Apple Butter Time is Just Around the Corner!


So, what does “TTFF” mean? It is short for Time – Talents – Fellowship and Fun. That is what Apple
Butter is all about - a chance to contribute time and talents to the parish while raising around $5,000 and
having fun and fellowship with the parish family. Apple Butter and the Annual Country Fair will be here
soon. Mark the calendar now to make sure to set aside time to be part of this great tradition. Every year the
participation continues to grow and that is just great. Working four 40 gallon copper kettles “the old fashion
way” on Apple Butter Weekend and processing 80 bushels of apples into apple
butter has proven to be a huge success - but also a lot of work. Everyone always
feels so good after it is all finished. Support of the congregation is the real key
to this success. Nothing really happens unless a whole lot of volunteers are in-
volved.
Apple Butter Weekend is scheduled for September 25 and 26 this year.
Please mark the calendar now. On Saturday, September 25, 80 bushels of apples
will need to be cut and processed into applesauce. Finish time is about 5:00 pm.
Please bring a paring knife and cutting board. On Sunday, September 26, the
applesauce will be cooked down to apple butter and canned. Approximately,
1,000 pint jars of Apple Butter will be made on the weekend and another 400
jars on Fair Day.
It is two full days of great fellowship and camaraderie. Get to know a lot
of people a whole lot better, make a whole bunch of new friends, and learn a few
things about the history and traditions of Pohick Church.
So for now, remember TTFF - September 25 and 26.
Pohick Episcopal Church July 2010 • Page 3

that he thinks she is right, in part. Pain at its worst he


From The Assistant Rector says “is a full time job.” I wonder if my friend is able
The Reverend to pray when pain is pressing in. But I can pray, as can
Lyn Youll Marshall others who love this precious person and her family.
We will pray for miracles, but also for grace. Grace for
ourselves if the prayers don’t ‘work’ as we had hoped.
Healing Prayers But mostly grace for the one who, at least by all ac-
In September, Pohick will be running its third counts, is dying. That she will know the presence of
Alpha course. Alpha is an eleven-week course aimed Christ with her every step of the way.
originally at ‘seekers’ and those new to the Christian It doesn’t easily answer the question of why God
faith. Over the years, it has proved to be equally en- allows suffering, and it won’t be sufficient for all. But
gaging for those who have ‘wandered away’ for a while, for my friend, for her husband, and for many others,
for long time Christians who simply want a ‘tune up,’ Christ on the cross defeating death and promising life
and as a way for newcomers to integrate into their to come is the reason for prayers to continue and for
new church home. the sure and certain hope that brings us to our knees
The reasons for taking the course are as diverse in His Name.
as the people who take it. But, there are some ques- The Apha Course begins on Tuesday, September
tions that seem to be universal, even for those who 14. Please call the Rev. Lyn Youll Marshall for more
have been Christians for many years. One question is details, 703-339-6572.
“Why does God allow suffering?” And, this is in fact
the title of one of the talks. We try to come up with A Call to Needles!
reasons why an all powerful, all loving God would ap- The kneeling cushions at the altar are disin-
parently allow some to live longer and others to die. tegrating and should be replaced within the next
For some, it is a stumbling block. Others find consola- two years. An attempt will be made to duplicate
tion in the truth that Christ is with us whatever our the cushions that are presently there or possibly
circumstances. come up with a new design. For those interested
When I was in Toronto last week, I visited a friend in helping with the design or stitching the needle-
who is very sick with cancer. She and her husband point after the design has been determined, please
welcome prayers for healing and indeed pray for that contact Edie Bartlett at 703-780-6809 or redsse@
very ‘miracle’ themselves. There are those who pray aol.com or call Jackie Wells at 7093-780-1472.
long and loud for healing and for the cancer cells to
be destroyed. But in the quiet of my friend’s kitchen,
as we sipped tea together, she told me that the treat-
ment had become so debilitating that she had decided Christmas Mart
not to continue it but instead to live each day as she Consignment Room
and her family prepared for her death. Although very early, those that love to do
Is this ‘giving up?’ I don’t think so. I don’t know crafts or stitchery will need lots of time to pro-
how she feels in the dark hours of the night when she duce a work of art. The Christmas Mart is look-
can’t sleep. I wonder if she can quiet her heart with ing for some consignors for the Mart that would
words of comfort; “Be still and know that I am God.” provide some new and
Perhaps sometimes her feelings are closer to those ex- special items. Looking for
pressed by the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas when his a market for wonderful
father was dying: “Do not go gentle into that good wares or know of someone
night.” else interested in consign-
Richard Neuhaus wrote that when he was a young ing, please contact Edie
man, a parishioner told him, “Do all your praying be- Bartlett at 703-780-6809
fore you get really sick. When you’re sick you can’t or redsse@aol.com.
really pray.” Father Neuhaus, no stranger to pain, said
Page 4 • July 2010 Pohick Episcopal Church

social and fellowship events. Organizers are reminded


Senior Warden’s Report of their responsibility to lock all doors following such
Stew Remaly, Senior Warden gatherings, and complete all items on the Vestry Lock-
Up Checklist.
This year the youth mission trip will support resi- • Was told that Julia Messer, our former seminar-
dents and share in fellowship with the communities ian, has accepted a call as assistant at Emmanuel Epis-
surrounding York, PA. There is a tremendous amount copal Church in Virginia Beach.
of work that goes into preparing for this week long
event. Rusty Booth will again have the youth prepared Junior Warden’s Report
and ready to work, play, and worship. Jeff Parker, Junior Warden
Speaking of worship and fellowship, thanks go to
Angela Edgemon and the rest of the Vestry for spon- Now that summer is here, there are many activities
soring the Parish Picnic. Also, thanks to the Pohick to enjoy. The parish picnic was well attended; everyone
Pickers and all of the volunteers who made the event a enjoyed good fellowship, good food, and good music.
great success. The turnout was fantastic, and it has been The Sounds of Pohick was an inspiration, especially to
suggested that there may be more picnics throughout the three boxes of guests from the community. Thanks to
the summer if it brings people to worship. all who made that possible. The parish retreat at Shrine
Looking forward to the rest of the summer, every- Mont provided a fantastic weekend to share the spirit.
one should be reminded that the summer will continue On the homefront, things are progressing. In addi-
to be filled with wonderful worship and fellowship op- tion to normal maintenance, the rectory has received a
portunities. Father Don and Reverend Lyn will lead new coat of paint and updates to the bathrooms have
adult education discussions after the 8:00 am worship been completed.
service. Vacation Bible School will be in full swing and The walkways have been completed. Thanks to all
the Brotherhood of St. Andrew will sponsor another who donated the funds to make this happen. This project
picnic for New Hope Housing and the Kennedy Cen- and the fund raising are complete. There is still a need to
ter. There should be something for everyone. continue the renovation of the parish hall. Please con-
June Vestry meeting notes as recorded by Don sider a donation.
Brownlee: Many have been involved in the upgrade to the
• Heard and discussed a presentation from the handicap ramp. The property committee recommends a
Historic Pohick Church Foundation regarding the ramp that complies with code and provides the least in-
handicapped ramp. The Foundation recommends that trusive structure to accomplish that end. Parishioners are
the current temporary metal handicapped ramp at the asked to carefully and prayerfully consider the options.
northwest door be replaced with a brick and earthen One of the benefits of being Junior Warden is work-
ramp running along the south wall of the Church from ing with Eagle Scout candidates. Pohick has been blessed
the handicapped parking to the center door. The Vestry with several young people who have achieved this honor.
will hold a series of forums and discussions to socialize Recently, Max Schwoppe was honored at a ceremony at
this proposal with the Parish prior to taking any action. Pohick. Max completed a project to improve the Col-
The Vestry greatly appreciates the work the Foundation chester parking lot. It is very comforting that the val-
has done on his issue over the months and years. ues to God and Country are sustained in this fine young
• Voted to continue the moratorium on sale of man.
cemetery lots to non-parishioners through September
pending a report from the Cemetery Warden. Send News!
• Approved the Treasurer’s Report. Plate and pledge Articles for the August 2010 Pohick Post are due no later
income remain within the historical range, but pledge than July 15! Forward input by email in Word
income is lagging behind where the Treasurer would compatible format to Lori Buckius, raebuck@aol.com.
like to see it at this point in the year. Parishioners are Design concerns and items for the
urged to keep their pledges current. Sunday Service Volunteers page
• Was told that the Church and buildings have should be addressed to Carmel
Hodge, cchodge@cox.net.
been found unlocked following night and weekend
Pohick Episcopal Church July 2010 • Page 5

Christian Education
Frances Sessums, Director of Christian Education Ø Music Notes
Linda Egan, Minister of Music

Pohick’s annual Vacation Bible School will be America the Beautiful, hymn #719
held July 12 through 16 from 9:00 am until 12 noon.
Katharine Lee Bates, 1859-1929, wrote the poem
The theme is SonQuest Rainforest. This promises to
“America the Beautiful” while she was teaching Eng-
be a great week of learning, fun, and adventures! The
lish in 1893 at a summer lecture series at Colorado
teachers and staff are looking forward to working with
College in Colorado Springs. She recalled:
the children! Please register as soon as possible. This
One day some of the other teachers and I decided to go
helps greatly in planning. Unfortunately, some of the
on a trip to 14,000-foot Pikes Peak. We hired a prairie
classes are full so please check with Frances Sessums
wagon. Near the top we had to leave the wagon and go
before completing the registration form. Registration
the rest of the way on mules. I was very tired. But when I
forms are enclosed in this Post as well as being avail-
saw the view, I felt great joy. All the wonder of America
able outside the education office door.
seemed displayed there… It was then and there, as I was
There are classes for two and one-half year olds
looking out over the sea-like expanse of fertile country
through 5th grade students. A parent of two year and
spreading away so far under those ample skies, that the
one-half year olds stay and help in some way. This is
opening lines of the hymn floated into my mind. When we
requested so that a parent of the 2½ year olds must
left Colorado Springs the four stanzas were penciled in my
be on the premises in case needed. Nursery will be
notebook, together with other memoranda, in verse and
available throughout the day. Any questions should be
prose, of the trip.
directed to Frances Sessums at 703-425-2857.
“America the Beautiful” first appeared in print in
the weekly journal The Congregationalist, on July 4,
Opt Out Option for Pohick Post 1895.
In order to be better stewards of material resourc- An Oxford scholar who held bachelor’s and mas-
es, the Vestry is offering the congregation the ability ter’s degrees in the arts from Wellesley College, Bates
to opt out of receiving a monthly hard copy of the Po- taught as a professor of English literature there for
hick Post, especially since an electronic edition has been 45 years. She was a prolific author publishing many
available via email for several years. volumes of poetry, books on her travels to Europe and
To take advantage of this offer and receive only
the Middle East and stories, verses and plays for chil-
the electronic edition in the future, please complete
this form and return it to the parish office. In addition, dren. She also published several books on Shakespeare
please write legibly the current email addresses of each and pre-Shakespearean English religious drama.
member of the household who either presently receive Samual A. Ward, 1847-1903, wrote the tune, ti-
or would like to receive the monthly mailing of the tled Materna, for the hymn “O mother, dear Jerusa-
ePost. Requests can also be emailed to Vonne Troknya lem,” a 16th century folk hymn - a portion of which
at troknya@pohick.org. is contained in our hymn #620, “Jerusalem, my happy
Name of Household: home”. Ward was organist of Grace Episcopal Church
in Newark, NJ, and the hymn was reportedly first sung
_______________________________________
there by a choir of 200 men and boys in 1882.
Email addresses for ePost: The Bates poem and the Ward tune were paired
_______________________________________ with permission in 1912, and the hymn gained wide
_______________________________________ popularity during World War I.
During the prelude this July 4, you will hear Jim
_______________________________________ Overson, trumpeter, play a wonderful arrangement of
_______________________________________ it by Lani Smith.
_______________________________________ May you have a restful summer
filled with wonderful music!
Page 6 • July 2010 Pohick Episcopal Church

Update on Issues in the Anglican Communion


Don Brownlee
This monthly report is part of the Vestry’s ongoing effort to inform churches.”
and update the Parish about the ongoing controversies within The Jim Oakes, a spokesman for the CANA Congregations,
Episcopal Church (TEC) and the Anglican Communion. These said, “We are disappointed with today’s ruling and will review
controversies largely involve the blessing of same-gender unions, it as we consider our options. This is not the final chapter
ordination of non-celibate homosexuals, interpretation of Scripture, in this matter. The court’s ruling simply involved one of our
and breakdown of traditional boundary lines between Provinces. statutory defenses… Ultimately, we know that the Lord is in
The Virginia Supreme Court handed the Diocese of Vir- control and our congregations will continue to put our trust
ginia and The Episcopal Church a significant, though not fi- in Him, not in secular courts or buildings. Our doors remain
nal, victory last month in the ongoing property dispute cases. open wide to all who wish to worship with us.”
The court unanimously overturned a Fairfax County Circuit The property disputes in Virginia stem from the ongoing
Court decision that had given congregations that wanted to disagreements within the Anglican Communion over bless-
leave the Diocese control of their property, and sent the case ing of same-sex unions, ordination of non-celibate gays and
back to the Circuit Court for further action. lesbians as priests and bishops, and breakdown boundary lines
The departing congregations had tried to claim the par- between Provinces. That ongoing tension led to an unusual
ish property under a Civil War era law known as the Division exchange of letters from the Archbishop of Canterbury and
Statute, or “57-9” (so called because it is Title 59, Paragraph Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, and the first ac-
9 of the Code of Virginia). That law says that when there tion by the Archbishop against provinces that have broken the
has been a “division” in a “church or religious society”, adult moratoria requested on these hot-button issues.
members of the congregation may determine by majority vote In a Pentecost Letter to the Anglican Communion, the
to which “branch of the church or society such congregation Archbishop began by noting that “At Pentecost, we celebrate
shall thereafter belong.” The vote would also determine who the gift God gives us of being able to communicate the Good
controlled the property thereafter. News of Jesus Christ in the various languages of the whole
The Virginia Supreme Court agreed there had been a “di- human world. The Gospel is not the property of any one
vision” in The Episcopal Church and Diocese of Virginia, but group, any one culture or history, but is what God intends for
said that the departing churches had joined the Convocation the salvation of all who will listen and respond.”
of Anglicans in North America, or CANA, and it is a “branch” The Church has experienced division and internal hos-
of the Province of Nigeria, not a “branch” of the Diocese of tilities almost from that first Day of Pentecost, he said, and
Virginia. Therefore, it said, the Circuit Court erred in allow- the Anglican Communion continues to be troubled by them
ing the CANA congregations to use the Division Statute to today. “It is clear that the official bodies of The Episcopal
claim control of their property. It ordered the Circuit Court to Church have felt in conscience that they cannot go along with
dismiss their petitions to take control of their property under what has been asked of them by others,” and cited the recent
the Division Statute, and conduct further proceedings on the consecration of Canon Mary Glasspool as a “clear sign” of this.
dispute “consistent with the views expressed in this opinion.” He also noted that activity across provincial boundaries con-
Significantly, the court said the “division” did not have to tinues – “equally dictated by what people have felt they must
come about through some orderly process, such as a denomi- in conscience do.”
nation agreeing to divide. This part of the opinion was a rejec- He proposed that as long as these tensions remain un-
tion of one of the Diocese of Virginia’s key arguments. But, it resolved, members of provinces that have “formally…adopted
said the “branch” had to come from the original church, and policies that breach any of the moratoria…” not participate
that was not the situation in these cases. in the Communion’s ecumenical dialogues. He also proposed
The Court did not rule on the Diocese’s claims that the that they be reduced to consultant status on the Inter Angli-
law is unconstitutional; it said that because it decided that the can Standing Commission on Unity Faith and Order (IAS-
CANA Congregations did not meet the requirements of the CUFO).
Division Statute - that they had in fact not joined a “branch” The emphasis on formally is in the original letter, and is
of the Diocese of Virginia as the law required - there was no critical, because he differentiates between formal actions by
need to address whether the law itself is an unconstitutional the General Convention of The Episcopal Church setting
infringement on the Diocese’s First Amendment rights. Church policy on ordination and consecration of non-celibate
The full Supreme Court ruling can be found online at gays and lesbians, and boundary-crossing actions which might
www.courts.state.va.us/opinions/opnscvwp/1090682.pdf. not be traced to any formal action by the House of Bishops of
Bishop Shannon Johnston said, “this decision brings us the province involved.
one important step closer to returning loyal Episcopalians, In her response, Presiding Bishop Katherine Jefferts
who have been extraordinarily faithful in disheartening and Schori said the Archbishop “seems to equate Pentecost with
difficult circumstances, to their church homes...We look a single understanding of gospel realities.” She countered that
forward to resolving this matter as quickly as possible and “Pentecost is most fundamentally a continuing gift of the
bringing our faithful brothers and sisters back to their home Continued on page 9
Pohick Episcopal Church July 2010 • Page 7

Pohick
Episcopal Church

Vacation
Bible School
July 12 - 16, 2010

REGISTRATION FORM
To be held at:
Pohick Episcopal Church • 9301 Richmond Highway • Lorton, Virginia 22079
For children age 3 (only if potty-trained) through Grade 5*
Monday - Friday • 9:00 am - 12:00 noon
IT IS NECESSARY FOR THE DAILY SESSIONS TO BEGIN PROMPTLY AT 9:00 AM.

To help the Christian Education budget,


a donation of $20.00 per family would be most appreciated.

Directions: Please fill out a separate form for each child attending.

Child’s Name ______________________________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________________
(street) (city) (zip)
Telephone _____________________________________ Date of Birth ________________________________

*School Grade completed in June of 2010 ________________________________________________________

Parents’ Names _____________________________________________________________________________

Medical Information (eg food allergies, etc.) ______________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE CHECK WHERE APPROPRIATE:


_____ I can stay and help if needed. _____ We would like to carpool, if possible.
_____ My child would like to come, but will need a ride. _____ I can provide a ride for _____ child(ren).

Please return this form to the Church office, either in person or by mail.
(over)
Page 8 • July 2010 Pohick Episcopal Church

POHICK EPISCOPAL CHURCH


Vacation Bible School
PERMISSION FOR EMERGENCY CARE

Name of Child _____________________________________________________________________________

Date of Birth _____________________________________________________________________________

Name of Parent/Guardian ____________________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone _________________________________________________________________________________

“THE CHURCH HAS MY PERMISSION TO CALL ANOTHER PHYSICIAN IN AN


EMERGENCY WHEN FAMILY PHYSICIAN OR I CANNOT BE CONTACTED.”

Name of Family Physician ___________________________________________________________________

Telephone ________________________________________________________________________________

IS YOUR CHILD:
ALLERGIC TO MEDICATION? ____________________________________________________________

IF SO, WHICH ___________________________________________________________________________

ANY OTHER ALLERGIES - SUCH AS BEE STINGS _________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

UNDER PHYSICIAN’S CARE? _________________

UNDER MEDICATION NOW? _________________

“THE CHURCH HAS MY PERMISSION, IN AN EMERGENCY WHEN I (OR MY PHYSICIAN) CANNOT


BE CONTACTED, TO TAKE MY CHILD TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM OF THE NEAREST HOSPITAL
AND ITS MEDICAL STAFF HAVE MY AUTHORIZATION TO PROVIDE TREATMENT WHICH A PHY-
SICIAN DEEMS NECESSARY FOR THE WELL-BEING OF MY CHILD.”

NOTE: By law a parent cannot consent in advance to any and all manner of emergency care. It is understandable
that in cases, other than the need for immediate emergency treatment, the attending physician may defer treat-
ment pending the parent’s permission to administer professional service.

_____________________________________________________________
(parent/guardian signature)

_____________________________________________________________
(date)
Pohick Episcopal Church July 2010 • Page 9

Update on Issues in the Anglican Communion, Community of Hope News


continued from page 6 “I was sick and you visited me.” (Matt. 25:36)
Spirit, rather than a limitation or quenching of that Spirit.” Congratulations to Pohick’s newly commissioned
She went on to say that Spirit seems to be saying to many
Community of Hope pastoral care lay chaplains! Fol-
in The Episcopal Church that gays and lesbians “are God’s
good creation, and may indeed be good and healthy exem- lowing 4 months of training (with a few snow delays!),
plars of gifted leadership within the Church,” both baptized the following parishioners were commissioned on Sun-
leaders and ordained ones. day, May 2 during the 9:00 am service:
She acknowledged that “many Anglicans and not a few Janet Ayorinde Mike Elston
Episcopalians” do not hear the Sprit’s call this way. “The will- Beth Baird Carol Heddleston
ingness to live in tension is a hallmark of Anglicanism,” she
Bruce Baird Dana Hutson
said, beginning from its roots in Celtic Christianity and “so-
lidified in the Elizabethan Settlement, which really marks the Bill Bland Theron Jackson
beginning of Anglican Christianity as a distinct movement. Tom Bland Marleen McCabe
Above all, it recognizes that the Spirit may be speaking to all Nancy Bireley Darlene O’Connell
of us, in ways that do not at present seem to cohere or agree.” Anne Cannon Rita Stankwitz
She said the Archbishop’s letter smacked of colonialism, Linda Egan Michelle Booth
and a “troubling push toward centralized authority. She ar-
When assigned by the clergy, the Community of
gued that “Anglicanism as a body began in the repudiation
of the control of the Bishop of Rome within an otherwise Hope lay chaplains have been visiting those in the Po-
sovereign nation. Similar concerns over self-determination in hick parish who are in need of comfort and care either
the face of colonial control led the Scottish Episcopal Church at home, in the hospital, or in a nursing care facility. The
to consecrate Samuel Seabury for The Episcopal Church in focus is on the ministry of presence and prayer, with lay
the nascent United States – and so began the Anglican Com- chaplains engaging in the simple, profound, healing act
munion.”
of listening. Community of Hope members carry forth
Finally, there is “Mitregate.” Early in June, Bishop
Katharine was invited to preach and celebrate the Eucharist the message that no one is alone. “We who are many are
at Southwark Cathedral in London. A few days before the one body, because we all share one bread, one cup…”
service, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s office informed her The Community of Hope is shaped by Benedictine
she should not wear her mitre or carry her pastoral staff, both spirituality. The spiritual disciplines found in The Rule
traditional symbols of a bishop. Furthermore, she was asked to of St. Benedict inspire community members to work to-
provide documentation regarding her ordination and conse-
ward balance and harmony in prayer, worship, silence,
cration.
She called it “nonsense” and “bizarre,” and bloggers quick- holy reading, and serving others through pastoral care
ly pointed out that her predecessor as Presiding Bishop has ministry.
worn his mitre when he preached at the same Cathedral, and With the initial training completed, Community of
female bishops from the United States and Canada had worn Hope members are attending monthly Circle of Care
theirs when preaching elsewhere in England. meetings, which provide an opportunity for lay chap-
The flap came just as the Church of England was to vote,
lains to debrief pastoral visits and receive mutual sup-
perhaps once and for all, on whether to allow women to be or-
dained as bishops, and was received with particular outrage by port. When debriefing, the focus is on the lay chaplains’
women in England who have just been, or are about to be, or- experiences (e.g., did they listen “with the ear of heart,”
dained as priests or deacons. “It swings straight back at them, being fully present to the care receiver) rather than the
one writer said. “With one hand the Church has welcomed identity or details of the person being visited. Confi-
their giving up of their time, their careers and their economic dentiality is emphasized and respected at all times. In
security in order to serve, while with the other hand, in the
the Circle of Care, Community of Hope members also
very month that they take their orders, it has smacked them
down again. You can serve, the Church seems to say, but never enjoy continuing education on topics related to min-
dare to forget you are second class citizens.” istry, spiritual growth, and pastoral care; and deepen
It is important to remember that despite all these controversies, the community and spiritual life through worship.
work of the Church – globally, nationally, and locally – goes on. Pohick From the commissioning service: Will you serve
parishioners donated more than 1,000 pounds of food for the Lorton with faithfulness, dedication, hope, and love? Will you
Community Action Center at Thanksgiving and another 1,000 pounds
rely on God’s mercy and grace and rejoice knowing that
at Christmas. One hundred twenty guests were hosted at the New Hope
Housing Annual Christmas Dinner, and more than 100 LCAC clients the Holy Spirit prays within you to empower your min-
were hosted at the Children’s Christmas Breakfast with Santa. The Ves- istry?
try is determined to continue the important ministry and mission. I will with God’s help.
Page 10 • July 2010 Pohick Episcopal Church

Pohick Church Activities • July 2010


Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
JUNE 27 28 29 30 JULY 1 2 3
Shrine Mont 9:30a Staff Mtg. 6p Community 8:30p AA 8a BSA
Retreat 2:30p HE/FX of Hope
Proper 8c 7:30p HE/LOH
8a HE I
10a HE II
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Independence Day Independence Day 9:30a Staff Mtg 7:30p HE/LOH 7:30p Finance 6p Wedding 8a BSA
Proper 9c Parish Office 2:30p HE/FX Cmte rehearsal 4p Mayberry/
8a HE I Closed 8:30p AA Knotts Wedding
10a HE II

11 12 13 14 15 16 17
EYC Mission Trip EYC Mission Trip EYC Mission Trip EYC Mission Trip EYC Mission Trip EYC Mission Trip EYC Mission Trip
Proper 10c 9a-12p Vacation 9a-12p Vacation 9a-12p Vacation 9a-12p Vacation 9a-12p Vacation 8a BSA
8a HE I Bible School Bible School Bible School Bible School Bible School 9:15a Fair Cmte
10a HE II 9:30a Staff Mtg. 7:30p HE/LOH 8:30p AA 7p VBS program Mtg.
2:30p HE/FX 9:15a Renova-
7:30p Vestry Mtg. Pohick Post Deadline tions Cmte Mtg.

18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Proper 11c 9:30a Staff Mtg. 7:30p HE/LOH 8:30p AA 8a BSA
8a HE I 2:30p HE/FX
10a HE II

25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Proper 12c 9:30a Staff Mtg. 7:30p HE/LOH 8:30p AA 8a BSA
8a HE I 2:30p HE/FX
10a HE II
Contact the Parish Secretary, Vonne Troknya, troknya@pohick.org, to list group meetings or events on the calendar.

Church Register
Baptism Transfer In
May 23 Mary Alice Sturm
Hayden Henry Galentine
June 20 Confirmations
Colin Matthew Smallfield June 20
and Madeleine JongMee Smith Hunter James Albertson
Leigh Crossman Alfieris
Receptions Andrew Paul Burt
June 20 Jacob Matthew Hodges
Cynthia Marie Tanfield Rivenbark Graham William Edward Hogg
Wilbur Ray Snyder Katherine Adeline Vaughn
Pohick Episcopal Church July 2010 • Page 11

SUNDAY SERVICE VOLUNTEERS


4 JULY 11 JULY 18 JULY 25 JULY
USHERS
8:00 Chris Brown John Springer Randy Brooks Ken Evans
Tony Marsico Bill Stewart Mike Vaughn Mike Zane
10:00 Rodger Jones Bill Bland John Godley Rick Nelson
Tom Bland Randy Cudworth Don Homar Sean Hartig
Mo Faber Tom Mayberry Edwardene Pitcock Grant Hodges
Santos Garcia Gerry Smither Tom Rivenbark Warren Prados
OPEN - UP
7:00 Chris Brown Roberta Fede Jim From Angela Edgemon
LOCK - UP
12:00 Rodger Jones Leslie Schwoppe Don Brownlee Steve Harding
TELLERS
11:15 M/M Thurston M/M Brown Pasour/Remaly M/M Myers
ALTAR GUILD
AM BJ McPherson BJ McPherson N. Bireley N. Bireley
J. Holm J. Holm J. Sunderland J. Sunderland
A. Powell A. Powell B. Wagner B. Wagner
J. Schmid J. Schmid R. Teale R. Teale
E. Pitcock E. Pitcock J. MacDonald J. MacDonald
A. Marsico A. Marsico A. Cannon A. Cannon
D. Pasour D. Pasour
FLOWER GUILD
AM A. Stribling J. Wells S. Homar TBD
COFFEE HOUR
8:00 M/M O’Connell M. McCabe M. McCabe M/M O’Connell
10:00 M/M Parker Bland/Girten M/M Hogg M/M Prados
NURSERY
AM C. Mullins/A. Gorham J. Hodges/K. Uribe J. Elston/S. Krajack A. McHargue/R. Strawderman
LAY READERS
8:00 T. Mullins (R) B. Gastrell (R) T. Marsico (R) T. Mullins (P)
B. Wagner (P) E. Thorson (P) P. Springer (P) B. Wagner (R)
10:00 R. Heddleston (R) M. Faber (P) S. Homar (P) S. Harding (R)
C. Cockroft (P) M. Elston (R) N. Sage (R) M. Harding (P)
ACOLYTES
8:00 LC Klint Edgemon LC Zack Perconti LC William Prados LC Amber McNeal
10:00 LC Kathryn Vaughn LC David Grey LC Jonathan Cooke LC Sarah Wooten
SC Hannah Goeller SC Julia Mitchell SC Kirsten Hodge SC Dru Hodges
T Hannah Vaughn T William Haufe T Sean Jones T Emily Elston
T Amanda Ljuba T Catherine Haufe T Ben Lynn T Katherine Vaughn
B Casey Ljuba B Andrew Burt B Melisa Lynn B Jacob Hodges
The Sunday Service Volunteers Schedule is also available at Pohick Church’s website, www.pohick.org, under “Ministries.”
The Purpose of Pohick Church is to be a nourishing community where Christ’s love is experienced and taken beyond its walls.
Non-Profit Org.

VESTRY • GRAM
Permit No. 2
U.S. Postage

Lorton, VA
PAID

Date: _____________________ Subject: _____________________


To: The Vestry
From:
Pohick Church Staff Pohick Church Vestry
Rector: The Rev’d Donald Sr. Warden: Stew Remaly
Binder, PhD Jr. Warden: Jeff Parker
Lorton, Virginia 22079-1519

Assistant: The Rev’d Treasurer: Roberta Fede


Lyn Youll Marshall
9301 Richmond Highway

Register: Don Brownlee


Return Service Requested

Seminarian: Julia Messer Members: Femi Ayorinde, Jim


Minister of Music: Linda Egan Bartholomew, Chris Brown,
Director of
Pohick Church

Angela Edgemon, Roberta


Christian Ed: Frances Sessums
Fede, Jim From, Andrea
Youth Minister: Rusty Booth
Gurrola, Steve Harding,
Parish Secretary: Vonne Troknya
Finance Admin: Pat Osisek Dana Hutson, Rodger Jones,
Sexton: John Sessums Leslie Schwoppe, Neil
Sunderland, Sarah Wooten
Telephone: 703-339-6572 • Fax: 703-339-9884
Church Office Email: Troknya@pohick.org • Web Site: www.pohick.org

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