The Mystic Heart: Exploring Interfaith Spirituality

Thursday evenings, Feb. 2-March 29

7:30-9 p.m., Bloom Education Center

Inter-spirituality is considered by some as the genuine and comprehensive spirituality that draws on the world's diverse great traditions. This is a monthly reading and discussion group for people who are interested in developing an Inter-spiritual Practice Covenant Group at Grace St. Paul's. The first four books will focus on Buddhism, Wicca, Islam, and Secuclar Humanism. The books may be purchased through the Rector's Bookshelf.

Facilitated by Ana Teresa Ortiz, a member of Grace St. Paul's and an ordained interfaith minister.

Confronting Moral Dilemmas: A Play Reading Experience

1st Fridays, Feb. 3, March 2, April 6 & May 4

6:30-8 p.m., Bloom Education Center

A continuation of the evenings without technology in the tradition of 20th century literary societies when neighbors gathered to read plays aloud. Plays to be read include "The Crucible," Lysistrato," "The Devil's Disciple" and "To Kill A Mockingbird." Everyone is invited to attend and participate in "cold" readings of each play. No theatre or public speaking experience is necessary; parts will be randomly assigned to anyone who shows up. Non-readers are welcome as well and can participate as an "audience". All the plays are appropriate for all ages.

Coordinated by Halsey Taylor and Nanalee Raphael. Both enjoy sharing all aspects of theatre with others.

Reconciliation - A Continuing Conversation

Sundays, Feb. 5 & 19

9-9:45 a.m., Bloom Education Center

Progressive Christians and conservative Christians are evolving in diverging directions. The language used for religious discussions and the underlying assumptions differ in ways that make communication

difficult. In the class, there will be a brief panel discussion lead by Grace St. Paul's member, both of whom have experience in each camp, focusing on communication with Conservative Christians. The second class will discuss dialectical thinking as an aid to reconciliation among Christians.

Facilitated by Chris Eastoe, Vestry Member ; and for the first class: Craig Garver and Eric Carr, former Evangelical Christians.

Episcopal 101 for Everyone

Six Sundays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26, March 4 & 11

11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Bloom Education Center

All inquirers and current members wanting a "refresher" are invited to learn more of the joy and highlights of the Episcopal path and sharing your journey in the 21st Century. In this six-session introduction to the Episcopal Church, we'll discuss basic Episcopal liturgical practice, the idea of liturgy, and the Book of Common Prayer; offer a history of the Episcopal Church, its roots and sense of tradition--including where things stand in the church's most recent controversy; and explain the structure and organization of the Episcopal Church; and what does it mean to be a member of Grace St. Paul's Church?. What do bishops do? What is Apostolic Succession? Why do we need priests? What direction does authority flow? Bring your questions to all the sessions! We'll use the book Jesus Was an Episcopalian: a Newcomers Guide to the Episcopal Church by Chris Yaw which will be available at the Rector's Bookshelf.

Facilitated by Fr. Steve Kiplinger, Rector of Grace St.Paul's.

Border Issues: "Lost In Detention"

Sunday, Feb. 12

9-9:45 a.m., Bloom Education Center

Come and discuss clips of the controversial social justice documentary that shows that while the goal has been to target criminals, thousands of non-criminal immigrants have also been deported. Once illegal immigrants are detained they are sent to detention centers, often far from their homes. In an interview with Hari Sreenivasan, FRONTLINE correspondent Maria Hinojosa said that their investigation uncovered many cases of sexual and physical assault by guards against detainees. Hinojosa said that the bigger issue is that detainees have little, if any, legal rights or recourse to confront abuse.

Coordinated by Reverend Nancy Meister, deacon at Grace St. Paul's

Film Festival & Fellowship

3rd Fridays, Feb. 17, March 16, April 20 & May 18

7-9 p.m., Bloom Education Center

You're invited to come enjoy a film viewing and discussion at Grace St. Paul's. The movie will be selected by the group attendees each prior month, with themes ranging from social justice to romance. Following the film, expect food and a lively discussion on the various elements of the film as it relates to one's life journey - from the humorous to the serious.

Coordinated by Kit Cordero and Eric Carr, facilitators and/or contributors of the successful film and fellowship series earlier this year.

Lenten Themes and Practices as Developed through Films

4th Friday during Lent: Feb. 24, March 23 & April 27

7-9 p.m., Bloom Education Center

Explore though film and discussion, pre- and post Lenten themes to enhance your spiritual practice during this time of preparation and waiting . Movies planned are "The Way," "Grand Canyon," and "Slum dog Millionaire." Be sure to check the Grace St. Paul's Sunday bulletin for the current details.

Facilitated by Steve Williams, an avid movie watcher on a spiritual journey.

Druids to Patrick: Roots of Celtic Christian Spirituality

Sunday, Feb. 26

9-9:45 a.m., Bloom Education Center

This class will take a look of the druids' influences on Christianity through the works of St. Patrick. When druids are portrayed in early Irish sagas and saints' lives set in the pre-Christian past of the island, they are usually accorded high social status. The evidence of the law-texts, which were first written down in the 7th and 8th centuries, suggests that with the coming of Christianity the role of the druid in Irish society was rapidly reduced to that of a sorcerer who could be consulted to cast spells or practice healing magic and that his standing declined accordingly (Wikipedia). www.whatsaithscripture.com indicates, "The apostle of Ireland (St. Patrick) presented the great controversy between Druidism and Christianity in presence of the king, the priests, the chieftains, and the sects of Ireland. Tradition has forgotten to carry down these arguments, though it has carefully treasured up and transmitted a load of prodigies and wonders which transform the preacher of truth who yields only the "Sword of the Spirit."

Facilitated by Ana Teresa Ortiz, a member of Grace St. Paul's and an ordained interfaith minister.

"And it was Good..."

Mondays, Feb. 27, March 5, 12, 19 & 26

7-8:30 p.m., Bloom Education Center

Through this Lenten Bible course, let's explore our understanding of and responsibility for creation. We will also reflect on how our understanding of creation during Lent can be deepened by the experiences of Anglican Christians throughout the world- from a progressive point of view. Bring your Bible and download (free of charge) this Bible study from www.aco.org/ministry/theological/bible/lent.

Facilitated by Chuck Dickson and Chris Ledyard who have a interest in the various perspectives that bible studies and the resultant discussions with other participants.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Life of Christian Witness-A Lenten Practice

Sundays, March 4, 11 & 18

9-9:45 a.m., Bloom Education Center

The first session introduces Dietrich Bonhoeffer, prophet, theologian, and pastor executed for his role in the German resistance to Nazism. His martyrdom has an impact and influence on Christian activity in a secular world: the personal cost of discipleship and how it reflects on moral dilemmas in our own lives. The second session will ponder how to implement his advice on sustaining holy fellowship as in solitude and with others through prayer, worship, work, and Christian service, in life together as a Christian community. The last session will be a reflection on the Christian's call to spiritual care for one another as mutual ministry. We will consider the grace of disclosure, discovery, confession, and forgiveness that transpires between and among us, and that binds us together in supportive holy community. Although not necessary to read before the class, the following books by Dietrich Bonhoeffer will be available at Grace St. Paul's Rector's Bookshelf: Cost of Discipleship , Life Together , and Spiritual Care.

Facilitated by Heather Pentland, M.Div, who sees Bonhoeffer as an exemplary model of Christian witness in our time.

NLP: How We Filter Our Reality - A Continuing Series

Sundays, March 18 & 25

11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Bloom Education Center

Tuesday mornings, April 3, 10, & 17

10-11:30 a.m., Bloom Education Center

Pre-registration is required for Tuesday classes by February 20

We only attend to 10% of what is happening at any one time. This series of classes focuses on how we do this and the consequences, good and bad, for our life. You will appreciate how all people are doing the best they can, given what they are aware of at any given time. Once you are aware of your own filters, you can change them if you want to. New students of NLP are welcome. The Tuesday classes require a minimum of 5 students; you may register through the church office at 327-6857.

Patricia Williams is a certified Master NLP practitioner who studied NLP in California and Salt Lake City from 1994-2005. She has taught classes in NLP and has worked with many people using NLP processes to help makes changes.

Troublesome Border: A Brief History

Sunday, March 25

9 a.m., Bloom Education Center

Immigration is a complex social justice issue with historical and geographic considerations. Explore the turbulent history surrounding the development of the U.S.-Mexico border, and some of the myths and realities that have shaped its history. Conducted by Juan R. Garcia, Professor of History and Mexican American Studies. Areas of research focus on U.S. history, Mexican immigration, and board studies.

Which service do you attend regularly?
The 10:00 am Sunday service.

Why do you attend GSP?
GSP is a place where people actually try to live out what they believe. Our actions are consistent with the theology preached. I've met many priests and been involved with different organizations that espouse a progressive mindset but their actions aren't consistent with what they say. GSP really does try to be inclusive and provide programs that help people, the members respect each other, and we honor the many talents people have. It's really important to treat each other with respect and thank each other for our individual contributions. Achieving what GSP does requires a lot of people doing lots of things all at the same time.

What GSP ministries are you involved with currently?
I'm the assistant treasurer and soon to become the treasurer. This gives me exposure to the wide variety of GSP ministries.

How long have you been volunteering on the vestry?
I've been on the vestry or related to the vestry for six years - either as a vestry member, search committee member or assistant treasurer.

What does volunteering as a vestry member involve?
A commitment to do the work of the community and a conscious attempt to represent the will of GSP members in the context of our Christian belief. It's like any elected position in that vestry members are asked to respond in the best interests of the community without advocating for their personal interests.

Why do you volunteer?
It's a calling. I'm driven from a source higher than myself. That sounds a little hokey but that's pretty much it. We're all called to do something and this is what I've determined my response to that call is.

What prompted you to begin volunteering on the vestry?
I was asked to participate by a friend and I was ready to lend some of the experiences I'd developed over time to the betterment of this community.

What is your professional job?
I am a Contract Manager for Honeywell Aerospace, a major portion of Honeywell International Inc. I've been with the company for 26 years. I'm on the front end of the business working mostly in the research arena, to document the many relationships we have with our customers. I form the contracts that help outline expectations so our relationships run smoothly.
It's funny how life works out. I have a liberal arts education yet have been related to technical areas most of my working career. I've worked with engineers pretty much all my life!

Can you tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to know?
I was a sixth grade teacher. I taught social studies, math, and reading. I loved it! I stopped teaching only because I couldn't raise a family on the salaries offered in Arizona.
I'm especially proud of two decisions I've made: I took a year off work to help raise my daughter when she was born, unusual behavior at that time. I decided that it's more important to keep my family stable in Tucson when my daughter was in High School than move for a promotion. This has proven to be personally satisfying and may reflect my mid-Western roots.

What other interests do you enjoy?
My two grandchildren! Della Rose is 10 months old and Merrik is almost five. I enjoy travelling with my family, visiting national parks and hiking. The variety of landscapes that Arizona offers is wonderful. I've been fortunate to have explored a lot of the territory and experienced many of the national parks, and met really interesting folks. For example, I met a man near Joseph City whose family once ran 10,000 head of cattle. When I saw him again just last year he was still living on a ranch not connected to the state's power grid. The teacher in me loves the history and variety!

Which service do you attend regularly?
The 10:00 am Sunday service.

Why do you attend GSP?
I attend GSP - after visiting other churches when I returned to Tucson about 10 years ago - because of its friendly members, the music, and especially because of its progressive theology. GSP is not a strict creedal, doctrinal church in the fundamental sense and that fits my theology quite well.

What GSP ministries are you involved with?
I sing solos on occasion and am a lector, who prefers to read the First Lesson because I am not an avid fan of reading Paul's letters. That man needed a good editor!

How long have you been volunteering?
As a lector, about four years. And about two years as a soloist; I've been taking lessons from Christina Jarvis for that long.

Why do you volunteer?
I love to sing and I love to read. I think it's very important to read the scripture with meaning and to be articulate. Before I read on Sundays, I practice and practice and practice. It's a way to get to Carnegie Hall but it also contributes to a meaningful experience, I hope, for the congregation.

What prompted you to begin volunteering?
As a singer, I love the sound of the human voice raised in song and that is why I enjoy singing the occasional solo. As a former Methodist minister and one trained in speech, I wanted to contribute whatever talents I might have by being a lector.

Of your many professional jobs, which one was most satisfying?
Teaching. I went to seminary in order to enhance my teaching. I taught grades 7-12. The most satisfying experience I had while teaching was in New York. After taking a sabbatical in 1971-72, I went back to my teaching position in New York with another Master's degree, this one specializing in teaching reading. I put together a team of teachers to work with junior high school students who had mentally dropped out of school after kindergarten and were failing. The team, an English teacher, American history and I in reading dedicated ourselves to making sure these kids would succeed. And they did. It was not long before the parents were calling the school to find out what had happened to their kids. They actually wanted to come to school and that was a real switch!

Can you tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to know?
I think there is a great deal that I have already said that will be a surprise. However, I also had a talent agent in Phoenix and did some on-camera TV commercials, voiceovers and some print work. I had 12 two-sided billboards up in the Phoenix metro area for about two years of me parasailing (which I actually did) on one side and of me faking wakeboard surfing on the other side. I wore the wet suit and they sprayed me down while I faked surfing moves. Then, they went out and filmed the wake of the boat and put the two images together. Instant wakeboarding!

What interests do you enjoy?
I like to exercise (core exercise class every Wednesday) and I enjoy reading. Right now I'm reading about Irish history. I am interested in Celtic Spirituality. A real passion of mine right now is Irish and Scottish music, ballads particularly. That's my heritage - Scots Irish.

Which service do you attend regularly?
The 10:00 am Sunday service. Every once in a while I get a wild hair and attend the 8:00 am service!

Why do you attend GSP?
I used to attend St. Andrew's but it was a bit small for my taste. Angela (the former seminary student GSP sponsored) told me I would like GSP. I visited and she was right. I found the parish very friendly and thoughtful; I had amazing conversations with folks about spirituality. The Adult Ed classes are the best, and I've had the opportunity to lead some myself. I like the spirituality and the intellect here - - and the independence. No two people at GSP believe the exact same way. I'm impressed by that.

What GSP ministries are you involved with?
I started as a Welcome Table volunteer because I love Lil and Don Donovan, and I continue to work there. I provide a little spiritual direction and am on the Vestry. I'm also the editor of our newsletter, The Briefly. And finally, I make sure GSP has a presence at the annual Tucson Festival of Books.

How long have you been volunteering as the editor of The Briefly?
One year in January.

What does volunteering as editor involve?
I solicit and review the articles submitted, and edit them for length, typos, etc. Part of my job involves some gentle nudging to make sure deadlines are met.

Why do you continue to volunteer as editor?
I like writing, and I like editing. One of the most fun parts is when everything is in and I get to decide what "issues" will be highlighted on the front cover. I like the challenge of piquing people's interest. I love words and appreciate the opportunity to play with them. How often does one get to write "Cue the Whales," or "Feathers, Fur, Shells, and Scales" in a church newsletter?

What prompted you to begin volunteering?
Lil Donovan got me interested in the welcome table and it proved to be such fun that I was open to invitations from other ministries. Martha Whitaker added to that when she asked me to serve as the Briefly editor. She made it sound like a good time and I fell for it!

What is was your professional job?
I am a retired electrical engineer. I was a "big power" engineer; I worked with 350 horsepower pumps and 400 horsepower centrifuges. The things I powered shook the earth; they were mammoth! I worked for Brown & Caldwell Environmental Consulting firm. We were concerned with environmental issues like how to purify waste water without using chemicals. It was cool stuff to brag to my grandkids about.

Can you tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to know?
I worked my way through college by sewing casket interiors. We used to jump in caskets on dollies during lunch hour and careen through the warehouse. We had races and would jump out and scare people. Good times!
I spent five years as a stripper! That would be a 4 color printing process stripper.

What other interests do you enjoy?
I play the banjo. I read a lot of historical fiction. I'm also working on a non-fiction book about faith and economics and how they work together. I have a very patient publisher waiting for the final draft, which was supposed to be finished last month...sigh...so keep your eyes open because it'll hit the stores soon (one can hope)!

If you have an idea for an article for The Briefly newsletter, please contact Lynda Canfield through the Parish Office.

Which service do you attend regularly?
The 10:00 am Sunday service.

Why do you attend GSP?
I initially came to GSP because I know Rosalind Garcia and she said this church has a very nice community. I've stayed because of how progressive and open the church and the community is.

What GSP ministries are you involved with?
My main focus is the Youth & Family ministries.

How long have you been volunteering as a Youth Mentor?
The past five years; I started when I was 19.

What does volunteering as a Youth Mentor involve?
Patience! The ability not to take oneself too seriously, and a willingness to connect with young people.
The youth groups meet every Sunday. The Youth Mentors don't create the meeting agendas but we do give a focus to the time spent together. We lend our ears to what is discussed and help provide the church's perspective to what the kids are experiencing.

Why do you volunteer?
Why not? I brush my teeth, I go to school, I work, I go to church. It's a no brainer. To neglect my spiritual growth would be not doing something that's as basic as anything else I do for my overall health. I guess I have a thirst for something spiritual.

What prompted you to begin volunteering?
My own experience with a youth mentor when I was younger. I was struggling with different challenges and a youth mentor gave me a unique spiritual perspective on what I was experiencing. He really helped me through a difficult time in my life. I remember thinking that I would like to offer that same help to someone else.

What is your professional job?
My studies come first. I'm a student at Pima Community College with a major in Education. I hope to matriculate to the U of A and am waiting to hear; keep your fingers crossed! I also work at the non-profit, Arts For All, that helps the development of people with disabilities through performing and visual arts. I'm in the dance ensemble right now which involves putting on shows around town of various types of modern dance.

Can you tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to know?
I play the banjo! My favorite banjo player is Pete Seeger; his style is really cool. I've been playing only 4 or 5 months. I started because the banjo is an instrument that really conveys joy. You'd be hard pressed to hear a song played on the banjo that's a downer. You Tube has helped me progress so I can play more than scales!

What other interests do you enjoy?
I have four parrots, and I love to read. I'm not too discriminating about what I read - science fiction to mystery, horticulture to physics. If it's well written and grabs my interest I want to read it! I'm usually reading two books at the same time - usually non-fiction and fiction.