Infinite Possibilities

Here’s a math fact: “One can fit an infinite number of numbers between any two rational numbers.
This is because you can always cram in another number between any two in the set.”
For example: Between the numbers 1 and 2 may be 1 ½ , 1 1/8 etc.

After a day of teaching multitudes, Jesus tests Philip by asking , “Where can we find bread for all of these people?”

Philip, being a finite person exclaims, “ Six months wages would not buy enough food for all of these people.”

Andrew tells Jesus, “There is a boy here with five loaves of bread and two fish.”

After Jesus had takes the bread and fish and gives thanks , he distributes the food to the people. All were fed and satisfied and there was enough food left over for 12 baskets.

It is unknown to us as to how this could happen. Jesus the Omnipotent can accomplish all. This is an example of the infinite being found in the finite.

Feasting is not just about the food. It is the time we spend together enjoying each other’s company developing and maintaining relationships. God is our sustenance during difficult times. He encourages us to look at difficult situations with possibilities.

The eternal can cram itself into one tiny moment. Each person’s time on earth is finite and yet each life is full of possibility.

Each moment of every day is filled with the infinite love and life of God made possible through Jesus our Christ.

SCRIPTURES

2 Kings 4:42-44

Psalm 145: 10-19
Ephesians 3:14-21
John 6:1-21

OFFERTORY
Guest soloist, Valencia Reese sung “The Tribute” during the Offertory
















ANNOUNCEMENTS

+The renovation of the rectory is almost complete. The rotten fascia board and soffits have been replaced and a primer has been put on them.
The leak in the roof has been repaired. Two ceilings inside the house have been replaced. Our next step is to get a volunteer paint crew to paint the fascia and soffits all around the house. Cecil Washington will organize with the men to arrange a time to complete the painting. Contact Cecil if you can lend a hand. We give thanks to our anonymous donor for the generous repair work.

+The National Alliance to End Homelessness has granted a consumer scholarship to Titus Battle. Titus will attend the 2009 National Conference on Ending Homelessness. The scholarship covers roundtrip transportation to Washington D.C. along with a stipend for conference related expenses. Hotel accommodations as well as conference registration are included in the scholarship. Titus will depart July 28, 2009 for this four day conference. As a long time advocate for the homeless and helpless Titus will have the opportunity to speak with government officials and their associates about the crisis of homelessness and how to combat it. We pray that Titus will have a safe and successful trip.

+Bishop Parsley has written a letter to the diocese In it, he reports about some of the resolutions passed at General Convention.




If you have any questions or concerns be sure to attend the covered dish luncheon at the church on August 2nd. Marc Smith will report on General Convention and Rev. Scott-Wingo will lead us in some discussion. A sign up sheet for the pot luck lunch has been placed on the bulletin board in the hall or you may contact Cassandra Joseph.

+Jalete Nelms Beyond the Pews story this month features Nikara Washington. Get to know your fellow parishioners up close and personal. Nikara's story is on the bulletin board in the hall.

+ Adoption Request- Rev. Scott-Wingo was

notified by an adoption agency this week that they have several African American babies they are looking to place with married couples. If you know of any couples who are considering adoption, put them in touch with Rev. Scott-Wingo

+ St. Mark’s Men and Boys- Anthony Joseph has volunteered to plan some fun activities this year for the men and boys of our parish. Rev. Scott-Wingo is asking all the men and boys of the parish to support this ministry with their participation. Feel free to contact Anthony if you want to help with the planning.

+ The clergy and vestry strives to build Christian relationships among its members. Fellowship after church has been reinstated. The month of July was hosted by vestry member, Ellarene Stroud.

Parishioners chat and chew

after morning service

+Bible Study Tuesdays at noon.

VISITORS
Mrs. Mamie Hymes and her grandneice Ms. Valencia Reese

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Mr.DeLeon Fancher and his grandson Jamari Fancher

Jokes You Can Tell At Church

An elderly woman died last month. Having never married , she requested no male pallbearers. In her handwritten instructions for her memorial service, she wrote, 'They wouldn't take me out while I was alive, I don't want them to take me out when I'm dead.'

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A police recruit was asked during the exam, 'What would you do if you had to arrest your own mother?' He answered, 'Call for backup.'

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A Sunday School teacher asked her class why Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to Jerusalem .. A small child replied, 'They couldn't get a baby-sitter.'

END***

The Ant Girl

Rev. Jayne Pool(l.) and Rev. Deacon Carolyn Foster(r.) prepare for Communion

Holy Eucharist was celebrated with Rev. Jayne Pool. Centered around forgiveness Rev.Pool told the story of growing up with few children in her community. Her brother was fortunate in that the children available were boys but, no girls. Until, one day a neighbor moved in with a girl a couple years older than she. One day while playing the "new girl" stirred a stick in an ant bed and then told Jayne to hold it. Of course her response to the girl was no. That's when the "new girl" told Jayne that if she didn't hold the stick, she would no longer be her friend. Desperate to keep her friend she held the ant laden stick and became the recipient of the conceivable results. As Jayne howled in agony her mother rushed outside asking what happened. The new girl explained in feigned innocence that Jayne was being bitten by ants. Jayne's mother rushed her inside and into the shower. Upon later investigation of what really happened, Jayne's mother forbade her to play with the "ant girl" which she obeyed. All ties with the offending family were cut off.

On entering high school Jayne and the "ant girl's" paths crossed again. The ant girl had grown into an attractive and friendly girl who remembered Jayne and tried to renew the lost friendship. Jayne remembered what had happened ten years earlier and didn't reciprocate the gesture. The ant matter had never been discussed with the ant girl or her parents. After the physical hurt Jayne had been left emotionally bitter.

Matthew 18:15-20 makes reference to being "loosed and bound". We are bound when we hold grudges. We are loosed when we forgive. Today's Gospel is what could be considered conflict resolution. It instructs us on what to do in the matters of conflict and hurt. Rev. Jayne explained that because communication about the ant incident was never discussed with the girl or her parents the seeds of ill feelings were sown. This girl may have been a wonderful friend who could have helped her during her transition into high school or later been a positive impact in her life. We diminish our lives when we are bound and don't forgive. When we forgive Jesus is there.*****

Scriptures

First Reading-Exodus 12:1-14

Psalm 149

Second Reading-Romans 13:8-14

Gospel-Matthew-18:15-20*****

Musician, Sundra Smith leads the choir in the

Offertory music, Song of Thanksgiving
September

Birthdays


Birthday honoree Bertha Smith(far left in pink)

is joined by (from l.to r.) Ariel Cameron,

Andrea Duckery, and Mary Williams

Though hard at work, Kathy Cook(second from left in dark blue)

celebrates a birthday this month. Also pictured are (l.) Ellarine Stroud,

Kathy, Claudette Stallworth, and Ocie Milner

Marcellus Smith also celebrates his birthday this month. September is a busy month for Marc.

Anniversaries

Celebrating 30 years of marriage

Marcellus and Sundra Smith

Marc Smith gives his ecstatic bride, Sundra

a kiss

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Celebrating 35 years of marriage

Cecil and Olivia Washington

The blissful couple gives a radiant smile
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Announcements
September 7th was the last St. Mark's First Sunday Potluck Luncheon which immediately followed the morning service. Members, friends and visitors were invited to stay for this fabulous luncheon coordinated by Jackie Nixon.

Jackie Nixon clasps a ladle as

she readies herself to prepare

punch

A message from Jacqueline Nixon

I would like to extend a special thank you to all who helped to make our final pot luck luncheon a success. Indeed it was a success and it could not have been successful without your help.
Thank you all kindly.
Jacqueline Nixon *****

+Giving flowers for the altar is a wonderful way to honor, remember and celebrate special people and events in our lives. Please consider placing flowers on the altar for one Sunday this years. The sign up calendar is located on the bulletin boards outside the Fellowship Hall.

+The last session of the Healthy Congregations study by Peter Steinke will be held Sunday, September 14th from 8:45-9:45am. in the Fellowship Hall. Deacon Carolyn will officiate.

+A tear off sheet is being provided each Sunday so that you can place names of your favorite hymns in the basket at the back of the church. From this survey we hope to hear all the collections that mean something to each of us.

+ If you were not present when pictures were taken for the St.Mark's Picture Directory but would like to submit one, e-mail it to Deacon Carolyn and hopefully there is still time.(check roster for e-mail address)*****

The Recessional song was When Terror Streaks Through Morning Skies

The lyrics were written by Mary Louise Bringle two days after the events of September 11, 2001. It is at once a lament, an intercession, and a thanksgiving for the courageous acts of rescue workers.

Verse 1

When terror streaks through morning skies And

fear dazed minds grow numb, With interceding,

prayerful sighs, O Healing Spirit come.

Verse 2

Come reach us through the mute appeal Of

dust-smeared hands and face Whose acts of valiant

love reveal an unexpected grace.

Verse 3

Through ash and rubble of our past, You

held our hopes alone. Rebuild our fragile

dreams to last: Of faith and not of stone.

Verse 4

Redeeming God, when hatreds turn Our

morning skies to night, Transform our raging

hearts to yearn For peace and healing light.

*****

Laboring in the Christian World

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated with our guest and friend, Rev. Charles Taylor.

In his sermon, Rev. Charles spoke of Ms. Allison whom he remembers from his church as a young man growing up. She had a favorite song entitled "Work While the Night is Coming". Here on the eve, of Labor Day, he thought it would be good to mention the song and it's lyrics:
verse 1

Work, for the night is coming,
Work, through the morning hours,
Work, while the dew is sparkling,
Work, 'mid springing flowers,
Work, when the day grows brighter,
Work, in the glowing sun,
Work, for the night is coming,
When man's work is done.

verse 2

Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the sunny noon,
Fill brightest hours with labor,
Rest comes sure and soon.
Give every flying minute,
Something to keep in store,
Work, for the night is coming,
When man works no more.

verse 3

Work, for the night is coming,
Under the sunset skies,
While their bright tints are glowing,
Work, for daylight flies.
Work 'til the last beam fadeth,
Fadeth to shine no more,
Work, while the night is darkening,
When man's work is o'er.

In this song, there is no reference to God, the Holy Spirit or the Church. What then is the message? What is the night and why or for whom is the work?He then spoke of Jesus - He knew why He worked and what He was to accomplish:
1. He did the work of someone else (His Father). Our work should be the same - the servant on someone else.
2. He did not justify His deity. We are the beloved children of God, our work for Him should bring us true fulfillment
3. He was not working to get to heaven, to earn a partnership or salvation.
4. His work was joyful - though He knew what was coming, He was not controlled by the night...He was God's gift.
He then referred to another Hymn - Come Labor On:

verse 1

Come, labor on!
Who dares stand idle,
on the harvest plain
While all around him waves the golden grain?
And to each servant does the Master say,
“Go work today.”

verse 2

Come, labor on!
Claim the high calling angels cannot share
—To young and old the Gospel gladness bear;
Redeem the time;its hours too swiftly fly.
The night draws nigh.
These are the first two verse of this six verse hymn. It can be found in our Hymnal #541. Here we hear of God's love and presence. And because of our faith, He will be there to welcome us into His new day!

Processional -#552
Readings (Joyce Ladd):Exodus 3:1-15
Psalm 105: 1-6I
Romans 12: 9-21
Gospel (Deacon Carolyn)Matthew 16:21-28
Music by the Voices of Praise "Trading My Sorrows", and "Come Holy Spirit"

Announcements

+The last First Sunday Potluck Luncheon for the summer will be held after our regular church service on Sunday, September 7, 2008. The sign-up list will be posted on the bulletin board, please stop by and sign-up to bring something to make this a very, very special luncheon. This time, we are going to play a game that will allow everyone to win something and will be lots of fun. Plan to bring two (2) "no gender" gifts that cost no more than $5. I am asking for two gifts in the event we have visitors and this will allow them to participate, also. I am very excited about September's First Sunday Potluck Luncheon, so please help to make this a wonderful one. Should you have questions, please contact me via email or by telephone . (check church roster for this information) Thank you so much. Jackie Nixon, September Coordinator St. Mark's First Sunday Potluck .

+Giving flowers for the altar is a wonderful way to honor, remember and celebrate special people and events in our lives. Please consider placing flowers on the altar for one Sunday this years. The sign up calendar is located on the bulletin boards outside the Fellowship Hall.

+Healthy congregations study by Peter Steinke is still be lead by Deacon Carolyn on Sunday morning from 8:45-9:45am

+A tear off sheet is being provided each Sunday so that you can place names of your favorite hyms in the basket at the back oif the church. From this survey we hope to hear all the collections that mean something to each of us.

+Thanks to Deacon Carolyn for hosting the back to school pool party for the kids.

+Mark Smith announced a meeting for the upcoming children’s Sunday School class.

+The Adult Sunday School class will resume on September 14 at 9:00 am

+Welcome to Mamie Hymes guests, Mr. And Mrs. Bryan Thomas, and little Mamie.

St. Mark's Bible Study Group

Pictured, standing left to right: Bertha Smith, Mary Williams, Heager Hill, and seated, Mamie Hymes. Other group members not pictured, Deleon Fancher, Nettie Hill, Lucille Tarver, and Olivia Washington
The St. Mark's Bible Study Group, currently studying William Barclay's, "The Gospel of Mark", meets weekly on Wednesdays from 12 noon until 1:00pm at the church. Please feel free to join this wonderful group of brothers and sisters as they study and pray together. submitted by Bertha Smith

Hope you had a wonderful Labor Day !!

Solid Rock

Deacon Carolyn Foster
A Deacon's Service was held today with Deacon Carolyn Foster officiating. Before arriving at the points in her sermon we were given historical and geographical facts about the city of Caesarea Philippi . The city was named after Herod's son Philipp. Philipp later renamed the city Caesarea Phillipi after the ruler Caesar since he and his followers considered him (Caesar) a god. The city was built upon a rock that was 100 miles by 900 miles, bordered by Mount Hermon. Mount Hermon is Israel's tallest mountain. Jesus never entered the city. With the splendor and majesty of Caesarea Phillipi in the distance, Jesus asked the disciples,"Who do people say I am?" Each disciple gives a different answer. Peter is finally the one who makes the proclamation. Peter proclaims that Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus is pleased with Peter's answer acknowledging that the Father in heaven has revealed this to him. That is when he tells Peter,..."on this rock I build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it...." The rock is the foundation of the church. Peter is that rock. Peter is an instrumental factor in the building of the church. He later becomes a Bishop. Where are you in your life? Who do you say Jesus is?****


Scriptures


First Reading Exodus 1:8-2:10


Second Reading Romans 12:1-8



Gospel Matthew 16: 13-20***


Announcements


The last First Sunday Potluck Luncheon for the summer will be held after our regular church service on Sunday, September 7th. Please stop by the bulletin board and sign-up to bring something to make this a very special luncheon. We will play a game that will allow everyone to win something so bring two (2) "no gender" gifts that cost no more than $5 in the event we have visitors. Plan to come and make this a special 'sharing' and if you have any questions, please contact Jackie Nixon via e-mail or phone. Looking to see you there.***
*****


+The swim party was rained out last Saturday. The swim party has been rescheduled for this Saturday, August 30, 2008 same time, same place.

***** +Vestry meeting will be held this Thursday August 28, 2008 at 6:00p.m.
*****
+Today's announcement insert contains a tear off portion at the bottom. List your favorite hymns (up to four) in the spaces. Tear off and place in the Offertory plate or on the back table after service. As the choir reconvenes in September, they will try to sing many of your favorites this fall.
*****


+Today is the deadline for the St. Mark's T-Shirt Design Contest. The Vestry will choose the best 3 and the church body will vote on the final winner. The winner will be announced on September 7th and win a $25 gift certificate.
*****


+Giving flowers for the altar is a wonderful way to honor, celebrate and remember special people and events in out lives. Consider placing flowers on the altar for one Sunday this year. The sign up calendar is outside the Fellowship Hall.
*****


+Join us on Sunday mornings as we continue our study of Healthy Congregations. These lessons take place on Sunday mornings from 8:45a.m.-9:45a.m.***
*****


Candid Shots Coffee, the bonding beverage


George Ladd sips a cup of Joe while mingling with others.



Olivia Washington enjoys a cup of java as she contemplates the remainder of her Sunday.

Happy New Year

Rev. Jayne Pool

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated with Rev. Jayne Pool. With the restarting of school Rev. Jayne wished students and teacher's a Happy New Year as they embark upon the brand new school year. Rev. Pool's sermon revolved around God's never ending forgiveness and His allowing us to start afresh so many times. As Jesus and His disciples traveled about they were judged by the Pharisees in everything they did. This included even eating a grain of wheat on the Sabbath as they traveled. The Pharisees wanted to bring Jesus and his followers into the legalistic doctrines of the Sabbath. Rev. Jayne pointed out that the Sabbath was made to benefit humanity and not the other way around. God ultimately has the claim of what is right and wrong. As in the present we often reject the vehicle of God's love because we judge what we see with human eyes. Every opportunity is one to start anew. It is an opportunity to start new life. Happy New Year and Happy New Life.

l. to.r. Kirbey Pool, Jim Pool, Jayne Pool

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Scriptures

Genesis 45:1-15; Psalm 133: 1-5; Romans 11:1-2a,29-32; Matthew 15:(10-20),21-28

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Communion

The Communion hymn , I Will Trust In the Lord was led by the church musician, Sundra Smith.

Sundra Smith, musician

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Announcements

The last First Sunday Potluck Luncheon for the summer will be held after our regular church service on Sunday, September 7, 2008. The sign-up list is posted on the bulletin board, please stop by and sign-up to bring something to make this a very, very special luncheon. This time, we are going to play a game that will allow everyone to win something and will be lots of fun. Plan to bring two (2) "no gender" gifts that cost no more than $5. I am asking for two gifts in the event we have visitors and this will allow them to participate also. I am very excited about September's First Sunday Potluck Luncheon, so please help to make this a wonderful one. Should you have questions, please contact Jackie Nixon. Thank you so much.

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Next Sunday, (August 24, 2008) come prepared to have your picture taken for the St. Mark's Picture Directory. What a beautiful directory we will have once completed ---- putting a face with a name.

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Deacon Carolyn Foster

Next Saturday from 11:00a.m.-3:00p.m. Deacon Carolyn will host a Back To School Swim Party at her home. Come and enjoy some last summer 'moments of fun and sun.'

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Vestry meeting will be held this Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.

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St. Mark’s T-Shirt Design Contest
Win a $25 gift certificate
Please include in your design the following:
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Birmingham
A lion
Founded 1891
Episcopal Shield
Welcomes you
The entry deadline is August 24, 2008. The vestry will choose the best 3 and the church will vote on the final winner. The final vote and announcement of winner will be September 7, 2008.

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Charles Townsend Named To Housing Board

Charles Townsend

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Giving flowers for the altar is a wonderful way to honor, celebrate and remember special people and events in out lives. Consider placing flowers on the altar for one Sunday this year. The sign up calendar is outside the Fellowship Hall.

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Join us on Sunday mornings as we continue our study of Healthy Congregations. These lessons take place on Sunday mornings from 8:45a.m.-9:45a.m.

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Check your e-mail for your own private showing of:

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ST. MARK'S HISTORICAL PORTRAITS

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Candid Shots
Marcus Smith extinguishes the candles

Anthony Joseph mugs for the camera
Spotted outside a church

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