March 13, 2020

A message from Bishop Cathleen Bascom regarding the unfolding Coronavirus

I write this knowing that the world around is changing not hour-by-hour but minute-by-minute, as we all seek to keep people safe in the face of the novel coronavirus. Our connection with one another across the Diocese of Kansas will remain a constant as we navigate this situation.

We are people of faith: We know that God is with us in all our challenges. When one reads about the lesser saints portrayed in Lesser Feasts and Fasts, we often see people of God who act with both courage and wisdom in times of pandemic. The relationship with God we have in Christ anchors us amid waves of fear. We know that the Risen One is with us in all things.

I invite you to pray. Pray for those who are ill. Pray for those who are caring for them. Pray for those who are vulnerable. Pray for those who are frightened. Pray for those suffering because of displacement.

We are people who value both community and safety: From its conception Christianity has had community at its core; it has had communal worship at its core. We do not want to cease being a worshipping, faith community in the face of Covid-19 or other diseases or disasters. At the same time, we honor that each of us is holy, made in the image of God, and we need to be safe. We will act to limit the spread of this disease out of our love for God and one another.

On March 12, I met by video call with many of the rectors and vicars who lead the churches of this diocese. In addition to the basic measures health officials call for – wash your hands thoroughly and often; cover your mouth as you cough or sneeze; seek medical attention if you have a cough, fever or shortness of breath – we discussed additional protections we can take in our churches.

1.       I have asked that all clergy in charge of congregations meet with lay leaders immediately to discern the best way of worship in their particular context at this time. Between now and Easter Sunday, Morning Prayer, Holy Eucharist, Communion in the Absence of a Priest and the decision not to hold services for worship are all acceptable. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry has clearly communicated that virtual worship is acceptable in these special circumstances.

***PLEASE NOTE: Some people have asked whether a message sent out today, noting the cancellation of churchwide meetings scheduled by the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society (the Episcopal Church offices), refers to church services. It does not. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry has given bishops permission to cancel services in their dioceses, if warranted. As just stated, I am leaving that decision up to clergy in charge of congregations in conjunction with their lay leaders.

2.       I have asked leaders to daily check the Kansas  Department of Health and Environment’s website for updates on the realities of the virus in our state: http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm

3.       Grace Cathedral will worship using Morning Prayer Rite II at 10:30 a.m. beginning this Sunday. It will be available on Facebook through this link: https://www.facebook.com/gracecathedraltopeka. If anyone in the diocese cannot be in church, you can pray Morning Prayer along with us at 10:30 a.m. Sundays, or later at your convenience. Messages from me, either in person or through the dean or other staff, will be shared during those services.

(Note: If you do not have a Facebook account, you still can watch any stream on Facebook Live. When asked to sign in, click “not now” where indicated, then scroll down the page until you find the live stream – it will be in the section labeled “Posts.”)

4.       In all worship and gatherings, please refrain from greeting one another by touching of any kind, either during the Peace, or before or after services. This includes clergy offering a blessing at the altar rail and handshakes as worshippers enter or leave the church.

5.       For those  who choose Holy Eucharist:

a.       I am directing that both use of the common cup and intinction be suspended for now. Communion will be given only with bread – with a reminder that receiving communion in one kind only is a full communion.

b.      Priests will consecrate a small amount of wine in a chalice during the service, which afterward will be reverently returned to the earth either directly or through a piscina in the sacristy.

c.       Clergy, Eucharistic ministers, acolytes and anyone else handling communion elements should wash their hands (or use hand sanitizer) immediately before distributing communion and again afterward.

d.      Please make sure to use antiseptic solutions or wipes to cleanse the altar rail after every service.

e.      Offering plates are not to be passed but are to be available where worshippers can place their offering.

6.       I strongly suggest that food service of any kind be suspended through Lent, with the exception of community feeding programs and college houses – places where the food is more sustenance than fellowship. This includes refreshments at coffee hour, potlucks, etc. Consider this a Lenten fast for the sake of others.

7.        We ask that parishes be especially vigilant about any in the community who may be ill or vulnerable. We urge anyone with symptoms of fever, cough or shortness of breath to stay home, rest, and seek medical attention. We will continue to check in with our people to assure them of Christ’s love and care.

Other helpful links for churches regarding coronavirus

Resources from the Episcopal Church: https://episcopalchurch.org/concerning-covid19

Resources from Episcopal Relief & Development: https://www.episcopalrelief.org/what-we-do/us-disaster-program/faith-based-response-to-epidemics/

Resources from Forward Movement on prayer and worship at home: https://news.forwardmovement.org/2020/03/forward-movement-offers-resources-for-prayer-and-worship-at-home/

Resources from the Episcopal Church Foundation: https://www.ecfvp.org/blogs/3763/covid-19-resources

Website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Website of the World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus

Livestreaming worship

Some churches may find it helpful to live stream worship services for those who are not able to attend church. Some may need help in getting started, and others are expanding their capabilities.

In each case, you must be certain that music you broadcast is free from copyright restrictions, or that you have a license to use copyrighted material. Just because something is in the Hymnal 1982 does not mean it can be broadcast without a separate license.

Here are some resources that can help:

�         How to livestream your church service on Facebook Live in 4 easy steps: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhnR0hahkD0&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR1tfnxVTANXmgs_5etpOx-XL8zbqxSI-jSOdtgOb4s47J41piUfGW6MbS4&app=desktop

�         List of hymns that are in the public domain (no copyright restrictions): http://www.hymnsuntogod.org/Hymns-PD/ZZ-CompletePDHymnList.html

�         OneLicense is offering a free podcast/streaming license until April 15 to new customers or those with print-only accounts:  https://onelicense.net and use code “CRVS20”

Campus ministry activities are cancelled

All of the on-campus ministry programs sponsored by the diocese have been cancelled until further notice.

In addition to the Canterbury Houses in Lawrence and at K-State, this includes:

�         Emporia State Canterbury program at St. Andrew’s

�         Word@Washburn, Topeka

�         Lectionary Lean-in at Baker, Baldwin

�         Donuts and Discussion at Haskell Indian Nations University, Lawrence

�         Blessings-on-the-Go, KU, Lawrence

Upcoming youth events

>> Only four spots remain for Episcopal Youth Event; firm deadline is March 13

The Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) involves 1,500 people (high school students, their adult mentors and bishops from around the church) who all stay on a college campus and learn, laugh and serve.

EYE20 programs focus on helping develop leadership skills, spiritual practices and early stages of vocational discernment. The theme for EYE20 is “Unite! �Un�monos!”

EYE20 will take place at the University of Maryland in College Park, July 7-11. Those attending from this diocese will be flying as a group from Kansas City to Washington, D.C. Scholarships are available to cover airfare if you need it. We ask participants to pay the $400 registration fee, which includes lodging, most meals and a t-shirt. Payment plans are available when you sign-up, but you must be paid in full by the start of the event.

Participants must have turned 15 and be no older than 19 by the start of the event. Current freshman who are 14 will have an opportunity to attend EYE2023, since the Episcopal Youth Event is on a three-year cycle.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKEYE20

>> Episcopal Summer Mega Camp registration now is open

�         Learn more about camp in our new Episcopal Camp Parent Handbook (PDF): https://edokyouth.files.wordpress.com/2019/12/episcopalparenthandbook.pdf

�         Register online: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKCamp20  

New this year:

1.       Jones Lodge will be completely renovated

2.       There will be a new amphitheater in front of Ritchie Lodge

3.       All cabins and yurts will be air conditioned

4.       Payment plans – see the Youth website for instructions: https://edokyouth.wordpress.com/camp/

�         When: Sunday, May 31, 2:30 p.m. to Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m.

�         Where: Camp Wood YMCA, Elmdale, Kansas

�         Who: Students in grades 3-12 for the 2019-20 school year (you must have finished third grade to attend). Camp is not restricted to Episcopalians or regular churchgoers. All are welcome, so feel free to invite friends and family.

�         Cost: $465 through April 1. There is a $50 non-refundable deposit required at the time of registration, and the remainder is due by Friday, May 8.

�         New this year ... payment plans! You can divide your camp registration fee into equal payments each month until camp begins.

�         Those needing scholarships should register for camp by April 1. The diocese has 20 scholarships of $150 available for those with extreme financial need. You can apply for scholarships on the registration form. Information about your household income will be required. Scholarships are awarded by a committee. Your parish should also be able to provide some scholarship money.

>> Middle school retreat registration now is open

This is a weekend retreat just for middle school students and will be planned by the youth commission this spring. Specifics will be announced as the event gets closer, but there will be yummy food, good friends, and time to sing, hang-out and be in Christian community together.

�         When: May 1-3,

�         Where: St. Thomas the Apostle, Overland Park

�         Who: Grades 6-8

�         Cost: $55 ($70 after April 17)

�         Registration forms: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKMSretreat2020

2020-2021 campus peer ministry application now is available

If you are passionate about deepening your own faith and taking a leadership role in cultivating the faith of students on campus, you are invited to consider becoming a peer minister in the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas.

Applications for Fall 2020 now are open and are due by July 15. Apply online at https://edok.formstack.com/forms/peerminapp

Special Needs Training to be offered for Sunday School teachers and youth group leaders

�         Saturday, April 25, 1:30—4:30 p.m., at Camp Wood YMCA, near Elmdale

�         Free to all members of the diocese

�         Led by Kat Witt, resource specialist at Camp Wood YMCA

This training will focus on how to be more intentionally inclusive in your ministry areas and how to manage some undesirable behaviors that you might be seeing from some of your participants. 

Participants will explore physical, social and functional inclusion, and looking for simple ways to adapt programs and remove barriers for individuals to participate more fully.  The behavior management training will highlight both “in the moment” strategies of de-escalation, as well as relational strategies to help with undesirable behaviors.

The tools from this training will help teachers and leaders better serve all their children and youth – both those with and those without special needs. Interactive activities, lecture, resource toolbox and role play practice of strategies will all be a part of this training.

Sign-up online at https://tinyurl.com/EDOKSNW20

The Episcopal Church urges all members to support the 2020 U.S. Census

From March 12-20, residents across the United States will receive by mail information on how to respond to the 2020 U.S. Census online, by phone or by mail.

The Episcopal Church, through its Office of Government Relations, is encouraging all Episcopalians to participate in the census, as well as in all local and national elections. The Episcopal Church is an official census partner.

The Government Relations Office on Feb. 20 said, “The census is a self-portrait of the United States. The U.S. Constitution requires the federal government count everyone living in the country every 10 years. The tally must include people of all ages, races and ethnic groups; all citizens and non-citizens. Every household should complete a census form by April 1.”

More information is on the census website, https://2020census.gov/en.html.

People notes

Valinda Jackson, whose husband the Rev. Les Jackson is rector of Trinity, El Dorado and St. Matthew’s, Newton, is recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained in a car accident Monday evening. She has broken bones and sprained joints, so please keep her in your prayers as she recovers.

Anniversaries of ordinations

Congratulations go to these people as they celebrate the anniversaries of their ordination in the next two weeks:

March 15: The Rev. Charles Kerschen, Christ Church, Kingman, Diocese of Western Kansas (12 years)

March 25: Deacon Barbara Adam, retired (27 years)

Stay in touch with the diocese on social media

You can find news, features and updates from the diocese on social media. We’re on Facebook – EpiscopalDioceseofKansas (https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalDioceseofKansas), Twitter – @EpiscoKs and Instagram – @EpiscoKs.

You can find diocesan youth and campus ministries on Instagram, too:

�         Youth: @edokyouth

�         Canterbury House of Lawrence: @canterburylfk

�         Canterbury at K-State: @canterburyatkstate

Next DioLog

The next edition of DioLog will be sent to subscribers on Thursday, March 27. Information to be included should be sent to Melodie Woerman, diocesan director of communications, atmwoerman@episcopal-ks.org no later than Tuesday, March 25.

Parishes are free to excerpt anything printed in DioLog; attribution that material is reprinted fromDioLog is appreciated. Feel free to copy this and make it available to parishioners in whatever way is most useful.

If you do not wish to receive this publication, you may unsubscribe from DioLog by sending an email to mwoerman@episcopal-ks.org.

Jan. 23, 2020

Bishop Bascom issues policy on communion in the absence of a priest

Bishop Cathleen Bascom has issued a policy, along with a trial liturgy, that will permit congregations to provide communion from reserved sacrament in the absence of a priest, in certain circumstances.

The policy allows deacons, licensed worship leaders and lay people who have undergone special training to officiate at a liturgy that provides communion from Eucharistic elements that previously had been consecrated and have been reverently reserved for this purpose (as well as to provide communion for the sick and others).

One of the primary changes from the authorized rite, which has been used by some previously designated parishes, is that two people will lead the liturgy together. A deacon always can be one of the two. Additionally, the liturgy is to take place from the side or front of the altar, not behind it, to distinguish it visually from a Eucharistic celebration.

The bishop spoke about this topic at length with priests and deacons at last fall’s Gathering of Clergy, and she has refined aspects of the policy, as well as the trial liturgy, with input from the diocesan Liturgy, Music and the Arts Task Force.

The LMA task force hopes to have its required training, to be used by churches within their minsters, available by Eastertide.

A copy of how this to be implemented is included in a document on the diocesan website at http://www.episcopal-ks.org/resources/documents/Communion-in-Absence-of-Priest-Notes-2020.pdf.

The trial liturgy is available at http://www.episcopal-ks.org/resources/documents/Communion-in-Absence-of-Priest-Liturgy.pdf.

Any church that wants clarification about the policy, or that wants to request authorization, should contact the bishop’s office.

Feedback about the new liturgy from those parishes that have been authorized to use it may be sent to Liturgy, Music and the Arts Task Force co-chair the Rev. Mary Schrom Breese at momary1400@gmail.com.

Reminder about filing parochial reports

All congregations of the diocese should note that beginning this year, the only way to file the required Parochial Report is online. No paper copies will be mailed as in past years.

1.       Each congregation already should have received information on the new process. If your church did not receive this, please contact Comptroller Jay Currie at jcurrie@episcopal-ks.org, (800) 473-3563 or (785) 235-9255.

2.       Each church must locate its Unique Episcopal Identified (UEID); it can be found in the list online at https://sites.google.com/view/episcopal-eparish-lookup/need-your-ueid/k-dioceses?authuser=0

3.       The form will be filled out online at this URL: https://reports.dfms.org/

4.       Your log-in must include a working email address.

5.       If you cannot file online, please contact Jay Currie and he will assist you. jcurrie@episcopal-ks.org, (800) 473-3563 or (785) 235-9255.

Need help understanding what is supposed to go in each section of the report?

·         An instruction sheet is available: https://extranet.generalconvention.org/staff/files/download/26436

·         A line-by-line workbook with instructions is available: https://extranet.generalconvention.org/staff/files/download/26437

Diocesan supplemental forms still are required. Hard copies of the required supplemental forms have been mailed to all churches, and online versions are available on the diocesan website, in the Forms section: http://www.episcopal-ks.org/resources/forms.php.

Questions about these supplemental forms should be directed to Michele Moss at mmoss@episcopal-ks.org, (800) 473-3563 or (785) 235-9255.

General Convention opens nominations for elective office

The Episcopal Church Joint Standing Committee for Nominations for General Conventionhas issued a call for nominations for Episcopal Church positions, committees and boards.

Positions to be filled are:

·      Member, Court of Review

·      Member, Disciplinary Board for Bishops

·      Member, Executive Council

·      Member, General Board of Examining Chaplains

·      Member, Joint Nominating Committee for the Election of a Presiding Bishop

·      Trustee, Church Pension Fund

·      Trustee, General Theological Seminary

·      Secretary, House of Deputies

·      Treasurer of General Convention

An application form and links to job descriptions are available on the General Convention website, https://www.generalconvention.org/nomineeapplication2021.

Applications can be submitted electronically, and for the first time, nominees are able to apply for multiple positions on the same application.

The deadline to submit application is March 31, 2020. 

Elections will take place at the 80th General Convention, to take place in Baltimore, Md., June 30 – July 9, 2021. 

Register now for the Episcopal Youth Event; space is limited

The Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) involves 1,500 people (high school students, their adult mentors and bishops from around the church) who all stay on a college campus and learn, laugh and serve.

EYE20 programs focus on helping develop leadership skills, spiritual practices and early stages of vocational discernment. The theme for EYE20 is “Unite! ¡Unámonos!”

EYE20 will take place at the University of Maryland in College Park, July 7-11. Those attending from this diocese will be flying as a group from Kansas City to Washington, D.C. Scholarships are available to cover airfare if you need it. We ask participants to pay the $400 registration fee, which includes lodging, most meals and a t-shirt. Payment plans are available when you sign-up, but you must be paid in full by the start of the event.

Participants must have turned 15 and be no older than 19 by the start of the event. Current freshman who are 14 will have an opportunity to attend EYE2023, since the Episcopal Youth Event is on a three-year cycle.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKEYE20

Upcoming youth events

>> Music weekend registration now is open. This weekend includes leadership games, hang-out time and most importantly, time to practice worship songs and maybe even record a few. The Mustard Seeds will provide the music for the 9 a.m. service and will play the offertory anthem at the 11 a.m. service.

·         When: Friday, Feb.  21, 7 p.m. to Sunday, Feb. 23, noon. Note: New or younger musicians who want to try us out may choose to attend for Saturday only, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (or if you can’t attend the whole weekend, this is also an option).

·         Where: Good Shepherd, 8021 W. 21st St. North in Wichita

·         Who: High school students who are interested in playing at youth events (junior high students may attend with Youth Missioner permission)

·         Cost: $25 ($30 after Feb. 15); $15 for Saturday only

·         Registration form: https://www.ultracamp.com/info/sessiondetail.aspx?idCamp=986&campCode=1sC&idSession=252574

>> Episcopal Summer Mega Camp registration now is open. New this year:

1.       Jones Lodge will be completely renovated

2.       There will be a new amphitheater in front of Ritchie Lodge

3.       All cabins and yurts will be air conditioned

4.       Payment plans

5.       Learn more about camp in our new Episcopal Camp Parent Handbook (PDF): https://edokyouth.files.wordpress.com/2019/12/episcopalparenthandbook.pdf

·         When: Sunday, May 31, 2:30 p.m. to Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m.

·         Where: Camp Wood YMCA, Elmdale, Kansas

·         Who: Students in grades 3-12 for the 2019-20 school year (you must have finished third grade to attend). Camp is not restricted to Episcopalians or regular churchgoers. All are welcome, so feel free to invite friends and family.

·         Cost:$465 through April 1. There is a $50 non-refundable deposit required at the time of registration, and the remainder is due by Friday, May 8.

·         New this year ... payment plans! You can divide your camp registration fee into equal payments each month until camp begins.

·         Those needing scholarships should register for camp by April 1. The diocese has 20 scholarships for $150 available for those with extreme financial need. You can apply for scholarships on the registration form. Information about your household income will be required. Scholarships are awarded by a committee. Your parish should also be able to provide some scholarship money.

·         Register online: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKCamp20  

2020-2021 campus peer ministry application now is available 

If you are passionate about deepening your own faith and taking a leadership role in cultivating the faith of students on campus, we invite you to consider becoming a peer minister in the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas.

Applications for Fall 2020 are now open and are due by July 15. Apply online at https://edok.formstack.com/forms/peerminapp

United Thank Offering grant applications are due Feb. 6

The focus for the 2020 United Thank Offering grants is “Bless: Share faith, practice generosity and compassion, and proclaim the Good News of God in Christ with hope and humility.”

The deadline for UTO grant applications to be submitted to the diocesan office is Feb. 6. The completed grant application form and a proposed project budget are required.

From among applications submitted, the diocese will select one to forward to the United Thank Offering board for possible funding.

Information, including a link to the application form, is on the UTO grant website, https://www.episcopalchurch.org/uto-grants

Submissions should be addressed to Bishop Cathleen Bascom, cbascom@episcopal-ks.org. 

United Thank Offering offers grants for young adults and seminarians

The United Thank Offering board now is accepting applications for up to five young adult grants and up to five seminarian grants for 2020. Seminarian grants are open to any ordination track Episcopal students at any school or training program approved by the person’s sponsoring bishop or diocese. 

Grants will be up to $5,000 each to fund start-up costs for new ministries or new projects/programs within an existing ministry program.

The deadline to submit applications to the diocesan office is Feb. 3.

Information about the grants is online at https://episcopalchurch.org/uto-young-adult-and-seminarian-grants.

Diocese of West Missouri Hispanic ministry offers a Lenten retreat

People from the Diocese of Kansas are invited to take part in a Lenten retreat sponsored by the Hispanic ministry of the Diocese of West Missouri. It will take place Friday, March 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, March 21 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The location is the Church of the Good Shepherd, 4947 NE Chouteau Drive in Kansas City, Mo.

To register, contact the Rev. Jose Palma at (417) 358-4631.

Minutes of Council of Trustees meeting now are online

Minutes from the Dec. 18 meeting of the Council of Trustees have been approved and now are posted on the diocesan website: http://www.episcopal-ks.org/news/Council-of-Trustees-minutes.php.

Clergy news

The Rev. Jonathan Brice has accepted a call to become rector of St. Luke’s, Shawnee, beginning Feb. 1. He most recently was rector of Christ Church in Aspen, Colo. He was ordained in the Church of England in 1992 and served parishes and schools there before moving to the United States. Brice and his wife Shara have two adult children, Crichelle and Joel.

Anniversaries of ordinations

Our apologies go to the Rev. Kathy Swain, whose ordination anniversary of Jan. 12 was omitted in the previous edition of DioLog.

Congratulations go to these people as they celebrate the anniversaries of their ordination in the next two weeks:

Jan. 23: The Rev. Jerry Rankin, St. John’s, Abilene (35 years)

Jan. 25: The Rev. Steve Lipscomb, St. Paul’s, Leavenworth (28 years)

Feb. 2: Deacon Suzi Drury, St. Michael and All Angels, Mission (23 years)

Stay in touch with the diocese on social media

You can find news, features and updates from the diocese on social media. We’re on Facebook – EpiscopalDioceseofKansas (https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalDioceseofKansas), Twitter – @EpiscoKs and Instagram – @EpiscoKs.

You can find diocesan youth and campus ministries on Instagram, too:

·         Youth: @edokyouth

·         Canterbury House of Lawrence: @canterburylfk

·         Canterbury at K-State: @canterburyatkstate

Next DioLog

The next edition of DioLog will be sent to subscribers on Thursday, Feb. 6. Information to be included should be sent to Melodie Woerman, diocesan director of communications, atmwoerman@episcopal-ks.org no later than Tuesday, Feb. 4.

Parishes are free to excerpt anything printed in DioLog; attribution that material is reprinted fromDioLog is appreciated. Feel free to copy this and make it available to parishioners in whatever way is most useful.

If you do not wish to receive this publication, you may unsubscribe from DioLog by sending an email to mwoerman@episcopal-ks.org.

Dec. 19, 2019

Presiding Bishop’s Christmas message

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry offers a video message for Christmas, focusing on the opening of the gospel of John: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.”

The video is available at https://episcopalchurch.org/library/video/2019-christmas-message

The text of his message is available at https://episcopalchurch.org/posts/publicaffairs/presiding-bishop-currys-christmas-message-2019?fbclid=IwAR26fozISdthEpJEdK58faQv-qnksxEqm8223zRg4QcRz_vKHE2rfCGijBw.

Dec. 21 simulcast will features churches in Washington and Bethlehem

On Saturday, Dec. 21, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Central, the congregations of Washington National Cathedral and the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem, Palestine, come together in celebration of the birth of Christ.

The live simulcast will include prayers, readings and hymns in both Arabic and English, bringing together those of different lands, languages and backgrounds.

The event will be broadcast live on the cathedral’s YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITXmb3AN9uw&feature=emb_title

The Episcopal Church offers three Christmas Eve services online

The Episcopal Church this year is broadcasting three Christmas Eve programs on Dec. 24, available on both the Episcopal Church website (https://episcopalchurch.org/celebrate-christmas-eve), and the Episcopal Church’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/episcopalian):

·         11 a.m. Central: Christmas Eve liturgy from St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church in Seattle, Wash.

·         3 p.m. Central: A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols from St. Thomas Fifth Avenue in New York City

·         5 p.m. Central: Christmas Eve liturgy from St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church in Seattle, Wash.

End-of-the-year financial deadline

Churches or others submitting checks to the diocese to be credited during 2019 need to make sure they are received in the diocesan office no later than Friday, Dec. 27.

Those with questions should contact Comptroller Jay Currie at jcurrie@episcopal-ks.org, (800) 473-3563 or (785) 235-9255.

Diocesan Cycle of Prayer for 2020 now is available

The diocesan cycle of prayer for 2020 now is available on the diocesan website at http://www.episcopal-ks.org/resources/cycle-of-prayer.php.

Entries for the remaining Sundays of 2019 are listed, as well as for all Sundays of 2020. There also are links to a Word document version of the list for both years.

The cycle of prayer includes special intentions for the churches of the diocese, members of the Anglican Communion and nations of the world.

Reminder: ordinations will take place on Saturday, Jan. 11

The Rev. John Bullock and the Rev. Ashley Mather will be ordained to the priesthood on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Cathedral, 701 SW 8th Ave. in Topeka. Bishop Cathleen Bascom will preside and preach.

Bullock, a spring 2019 graduate of the Bishop Kemper School for Ministry, is serving an intern year at St. Aidan’s, Olathe. Mather graduated in May 2019 from Virginia Theological Seminary and is curate at Grace Cathedral, Topeka.  Both were ordained as transitional deacons on June 1.

A reception will follow the service.

Clergy who attend are invited to walk in procession and vest in red stoles, and should arrive no later than 10 a.m.

Scholarship aid requests from clergy children are due by Friday, Jan. 3 

Jan. 3 is the deadline for clergy children to apply for a Father Young Fund grant for the spring semester. All students interested in receiving an award from the Father Young Fund should send a letter addressed to Bishop Cathleen Bascom, in care of Jeanne Atha (by postal mail: 835 SW Polk St., Topeka, KS 66612; by email: jatha@episcopal-ks.org).

The letter should state who they are (their relationship to a clergy person active in the diocese), where they are attending school, their year in school and what they plan to study. Assistance will be provided for eight semesters of undergraduate work only.

Application for the spring academic term is to be made no later than Jan. 3; for the fall semester term no later than Aug. 3.

As soon as all applications have been received from students, the amount of financial assistance will be determined, and a check will be sent to the student at their home.

If you have any questions, please contact Jeanne Atha jatha@episcopal-ks.org, (785) 235-9255 or (800) 473-3563.

Upcoming youth events

>> Miqra registration now is open. MIQRA (meek-rah) is a weekend retreat that focuses on the Bible and allows teens to discover what’s in it, why they should care and how to read it. We read the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation in 72 hours. The reading is voluntary, and participants take turns reading in shifts around the clock.

So many fun things happen at MIQRA. We play wacky games like Church Commandos and Nave Olympics. We have a movie night. We worship with the Mustard Seeds, our diocesan youth band. Participants attend engaging workshops on various biblical topics and hear clergy speak about the Bible.

Those who attend also meet with a small group several times to make friends and talk about what they’re discovering about the Bible through the event.

·         When and where: Jan. 18-20, Grace Cathedral, 701 SW 8th Ave., Topeka

·         Ages: Grades 6 – 12

·         Cost: $55 ($70 after Jan. 5) includes meals and t-shirt

·         Register: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKMiqra20

>> Mini-Miqra retreat for young adults has opened registration. All college-aged Episcopalians and others interested in exploring the Episcopal faith are invited to a one-night retreat to kick-off the Miqra weekend. We will read the Bible, learn more about it and how to read it, worship, and enjoy yummy food together. Pre-registration is required.

Miqra continues as a youth event for the rest of the weekend. If you’d like to volunteer as an adult for Miqra, register for that, too.

·         When and where: Jan. 17-18, Grace Cathedral, 701 SW 8th Ave., Topeka

·         Time: It will officially start at 10 a.m., but please come whenever you can

·         Ages: Ages 18 – 25ish

·         Cost: $15 includes meals and t-shirt

·         Register: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKmini-miqra20

Episcopal Youth Event registration is now open

The Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) involves 1,500 people (high school students, their adult mentors and bishops from around the church) who all stay on a college campus and learn, laugh and serve.

EYE20 programs focus on helping develop leadership skills, spiritual practices and early stages of vocational discernment. The theme for EYE20 is “Unite! ¡Unámonos!”

EYE20 will take place at the University of Maryland in College Park, July 7-11, 2020. Those attending from this diocese will be flying as a group from Kansas City to Washington, D.C. Scholarships are available to cover airfare if you need it. We ask participants to pay the $400 registration fee, which includes lodging, most meals and a t-shirt. Payment plans are available when you sign-up, but you must be paid in full by the start of the event.

Participants must have turned 15 and be no older than 19 by the start of the event. Current freshman who are 14 will have an opportunity to attend EYE2023, since the Episcopal Youth Event is on a three-year cycle.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/EDOKEYE20

Clergy housing allowance resolutions are required soon

The Church Pension Group reminds parishes of the need to have clergy housing allowances for 2020 finalized by Vestry resolution before a January paycheck is issued. This action must be recorded in the minutes. The priest needs to declare either a dollar amount or a percentage of compensation as the housing allowance for 2020.

Portion of the value of clergy life insurance may be taxable

The value of clergy group term life insurance provided by employers is considered taxable income in the current year to the extent the coverage exceeds $50,000.

The Church Pension Fund provides coverage to all eligible clergy in the Clergy Pension Fund. For active clergy, that is four times the total compensation, up to a maximum of $100,000. For retired clergy, it is four times the highest average compensation, to a maximum of $50,000.

Any clergyperson, active or retired, who receives additional group term life insurance from any employer, may have additional income tax liability.

To calculate the value of your insurance benefit for income tax purposes, the IRS uses the following numbers for the cost per $1,000 of all group life insurance coverage per month exceeding the $50,000 exclusion:

·   Under 25, monthly cost is 5 cents

·   25-29, monthly cost is 6 cents

·   30-34, monthly cost is 8 cents

·   35-39, monthly cost is 9 cents

·   40-44, monthly cost is 10 cents

·   45-49, monthly cost is 15 cents

·   50-54, monthly cost is 23 cents

·   55-59, monthly cost is 43 cents

·   60-64, monthly cost is 66 cents

·   65-69, monthly cost is $1.27

·   Over 70, monthly cost is $2.06

Anyone with questions about this may contact diocesan Comptroller Jay Currie atjcurrie@episcopal-ks.org, (785) 235-9255 or (800) 473-3563

Vestry Papers for December focuses on change

The latest edition of Vestry Papers from the Episcopal Church Foundation looks at the issue of change and how to embrace necessary change and all that it can offer a community of faith.

First-person articles describe how change has brought new life in places across the Episcopal Church.

It’s available online at https://www.ecfvp.org/vestry-papers

Episcopal Relief & Development offers year-end match up to $1 million

Episcopal Relief & Development again is offering supporters and donors the opportunity to double their impact with a donation. For a second year, contributions to Episcopal Relief & Development until the end of the year will be doubled, dollar for dollar, up to a total of $1 million.

The Million Dollar Match will benefit the organization’s Global Needs Fund, enabling work around the world with local partners, helping communities overcome poverty, hunger, disaster and disease.

Contributions that are eligible for the match include those made online, by mail or over-the-phone. Donations through the popular “Gifts for Life” alternative giving catalog also are included.

Contributions can be made securely online at https://support.episcopalrelief.org/2019match/?ID=191200RWMHC0100&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=fy19holiday&utm_source=191200RWMHC0100.

>> For that hard-to-buy-for person: The Gifts for Life catalog is available at https://support.episcopalrelief.org/gifts?ID=180000GX0000400&utm_medium=Undefined&utm_campaign=Undefined&utm_source=180000GX0000400.

United Thank Offering grant applications are due Feb. 6

The focus for the 2020 United Thank Offering grants is “Bless: Share faith, practice generosity and compassion, and proclaim the Good News of God in Christ with hope and humility.”

The deadline for UTO grant applications to be submitted to the diocesan office is Feb. 6. The completed grant application form and a proposed project budget are required.

From among applications submitted, the diocese will select one to forward to the United Thank Offering board for possible funding.

Information, including a link to the application form, is on the UTO grant website, https://www.episcopalchurch.org/uto-grants

Minutes of Council of Trustees meeting now are online

Minutes from the Nov. 20 meeting of the Council of Trustees have been approved and now are posted on the diocesan website: http://www.episcopal-ks.org/news/Council-of-Trustees-minutes.php.

Anniversaries of ordinations

Congratulations go to these people as they celebrate the anniversaries of their ordination in the next two weeks:

Dec. 21: The Rev. George Spratt, retired (64 years); the Rev. Robert Terrill, retired (58 years); the Rev. Richard McCandless, retired (57 years); the Rev. James Mitchell, retired (56 years); the Rev. Gary Gooch, retired (45 years); the Rev. Frederick Robertson, retired (45 years); the Rev. Tom Miles, retired (43 years); the Rev. Randall McQuin, non-parochial (40 years); the Rev. Larry Steadman, non-parochial, Diocese of Western Kansas (17 years)

Dec. 22: Deacon Deborah Burns, Trinity, Lawrence (18 years)

Diocesan office will be closed for Christmas

The diocesan office in Topeka will be closed in observance of Christmas and New Year’s from Dec. 23 through Jan. 1.

The office will reopen on Jan. 2 with regular office hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Holiday greetings

We wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Stay in touch with the diocese on social media

You can find news, features and updates from the diocese on social media. We’re on Facebook – EpiscopalDioceseofKansas (https://www.facebook.com/EpiscopalDioceseofKansas), Twitter – @EpiscoKs and Instagram – @EpiscoKs.

You can find diocesan youth and campus ministries on Instagram, too:

·         Youth: @edokyouth

·         Canterbury House of Lawrence: @canterburylfk

·         Canterbury at K-State: @canterburyatkstate

Next DioLog

The next edition of DioLog will be sent to subscribers on Thursday, Jan. 2. Information to be included should be sent to Melodie Woerman, diocesan director of communications, atmwoerman@episcopal-ks.org no later than Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Parishes are free to excerpt anything printed in DioLog; attribution that material is reprinted fromDioLog is appreciated. Feel free to copy this and make it available to parishioners in whatever way is most useful.

If you do not wish to receive this publication, you may unsubscribe from DioLog by sending an email to mwoerman@episcopal-ks.org.