Month: January 2024

Greetings, Dear Siblings and Friends!

Even Greater Things

Last week (1/21), we read and learned about how Jesus’s disciple, Nathanael, and the Old Testament character, Jonah, seem to have shared the same attitude (that of skepticism). Yet, God’s call to them persisted – just as it does to us today – to proclaim the greatness and mercy of our Lord.

This Sunday (1/28), join us at 9:30 a.m. as we learn more about how God is powerfully doing “even greater things” in and through St. Paul’s Claremore. “Hallelujah! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, in the congregation. Great are the deeds of the Lord!” ~ Psalm 111:1-2

Let Your Hospitality Shine!

Sadly, our siblings in Christ at FCC Claremore have suffered a recent catastrophe: their building was flooded, rendering their worship space unusable for a time. As such, they will be joining us this Sunday morning for worship and coffee hour. We are excited to be given this opportunity to extend a welcoming hand to our friends in need; join us in making them feel at home!

Good Book Club & Christian Formation

In our Sunday formation class last week (1/21), we discussed chapters 11-21 of Genesis, and our study of this Old Testament book will continue throughout the season of Epiphany.

This coming Sunday (1/28), we will discuss chapters 22-30, wherein we continue our journey with Abraham and Sarah and are introduced to their son, Isaac, and his sons, Jacob (later renamed Israel) and Esau. The Rev. Dr. Eric H. F. Law writes, “The story of Jacob expresses a fundamental aspect about the relationship between God and humankind. God gives us free will and makes a covenant with us to do good. We mess up. God still loves us and keeps the promise anyway. When we realize God’s love and reaffirm our covenant with God, we strengthen our faith, change our way, and then we give back.” In what ways have you messed up your God-given free will? …How [does] the presence and promise of God help you move forward? (A Journey through Genesis, 152-3)

All are welcome to join us each Sunday at 8:30 a.m. as we discuss how this ancient work of literature is still relevant today. Plus, don’t miss our daily Facebook posts which correlate with this exciting book study.

Coming Soon to a Coffee Hour Near You: God Chat!

You’ve been reading about it, and now, beginning in February, your Faithful Innovation (FINN) team will periodically present opportunities for you to participate in discussions about where and how we can see God working in our personal lives, in our congregation, and in our community.

Examples: 

• Some people find it hard to believe in God. Share a story about an experience that taught you something about the power of faith in Jesus. 
• Share a story about when you felt really connected to a community, the world, the universe, or something greater than yourself.

Think of ways that you might share your answers to these prompts with your fellow parishioners, family, or friends. And it’s as simple as that! Simple, yes; but the ripple effects of these conversations can be quite impactful! You definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to be part of the dialogue!

Celebration of New Ministry

Join us next Thursday, February 1 @ 6:30 p.m. as The Rt. Rev. Bishop Poulson C. Reed inducts The Rev. Nancy Gill as Vicar of St. Paul’s Claremore. Reception to follow.

Let Us Pray

• For our Bishop’s Committee and congregation as we transition to new leadership, explore our dreams, and discern and chat about what God is doing and where God is leading us in 2024
• For Miss Lillian as she recovers from surgery
• For Tom as he prepares for knee replacement surgery
• For Dellaura as she works with home health care to build strength
• For the victims of the war in Ukraine
• For Israel and Palestine, and for the victims of the war in Gaza
• For the needs of the members, family, and friends of our congregation, specifically The First Christian Church of Claremore/ Lillian/ Vernon/ Dellaura/ Miranda & Brayden/ Nancy S/ Velma/ Jim/ Judy/ Ani/ Aaron Blum/ Robert/ Lloyd/ Patricia/ Marie/ Russell/ Virginia/ Barbara/ Grace/ Lauren/ Cindy/ Stephen/ John/ Tom Patterson/ Jan/ Tom/ Bob & family/ Jean/ Al/ Carol W/ Mark/ Brian/ Pat/ Mark H/ Mike/ Chris/ Brady/ Patrick/ Zachary

If you have prayer requests to add to the Newsletter, email them to Clergy@stpaulsclaremore.org

Save the Dates 

• Saturday, January 27 @ 10am – Faithful Innovation regional meeting @ Grace, Muskogee
• Sunday, January 28 @ 9:30am – Fourth Sunday of Epiphany; Welcome our friends from FCC
• Thursday, February 1 @ 6:30pm – The Rev. Nancy’s Celebration of New Ministry

St. Paul’s Online

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Find us on Facebook at St Paul’s Episcopal Church | Facebook

Follow us on Instagram at St Paul’s Episcopal Church Claremore (@stpaulsclaremore) • Instagram photos and videos

Good morning, Dear Friends; and I hope this letter finds you staying safe and warm!

Glorify the Lord, O chill and cold,
drops of dew and flakes of snow.
Frost and cold, ice an sleet, glorify the Lord,
praise him and highly exalt him forever. ~ A Song of Creation, BCP 88

Even Greater Things

Last week (1/14), in spite of the cold, we read and learned about the story of Nathanael’s first encounter with Jesus whereupon Jesus tells him, “You will see greater things than these.” These words still ring true for us today!

This Sunday (1/21), join us at 9:30 a.m. as we learn more about how Nathanael and Jonah seem to have shared the same attitude; and yet God’s call to them persisted. And, the promise of “even greater things” continues for all who follow Christ.

Good Book Club & Christian Formation
Sunday morning formation class is back in full swing. Last week (1/14), we discussed chapters 2-10 of Genesis, and our study will continue throughout the season of Epiphany.

This coming Sunday (1/21), we will discuss chapters 11-21, which brings us out of the primeval history of the first 11 chapters and into a narrow focus on ancestral history – specifically the story of Abraham and Sarah. (A Journey through Genesis, xv) One of the themes we note in these stories is that God’s chosen people are not idealized; these characters are presented “warts and all.” What do you think is the effect of this approach? Does it ring true to you? (78, 83)

All are welcome to join us each Sunday at 8:30 a.m. as we discuss how this ancient work of literature is still relevant today. Plus, don’t miss our daily Facebook posts which correlate with this exciting book study.

Coming Soon to a Coffee Hour Near You: God Chat!
You’ve been reading about it, and now, beginning in February, your Faithful Innovation team will begin to lead you in discussions about where and how we can see God working in our personal lives, in our congregation, and in our community.

For example, peace of heart and mind come from a power greater than ourselves. Share about a time when you have felt the peace of Christ.

Perhaps you can think of some practice that links you closely to God or that makes you feel connected, loving and grounded. Share a story about engaging in that practice.

Think of ways that you might share your answers to these prompts with your fellow parishioners, family, or friends. And it’s as simple as that! Simple, yes; but the ripple effects of these conversations can be quite impactful! You definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to be part of the dialogue!

Celebration of New Ministry
Join us Thursday, February 1 @ 6:30 p.m. as The Rt. Rev. Bishop Poulson C. Reed instills The Rev. Nancy Gill as Vicar of St. Paul’s Claremore. Reception to follow.

Let Us Pray

For our Bishop's Committee and congregation as we transition to new leadership, explore our dreams, and discern and chat about what God is doing and where God is leading us in 2024
For Miss Lillian as she has inner ear tubes implanted this coming week
For Tom as he prepares for knee replacement surgery
For Dellaura as she and her doctors decide upon a treatment plan
For the victims of the war in Ukraine
For Israel and Palestine, and for the victims of the war in Gaza

For the needs of the members, family, and friends of our congregation, specifically Lillian/ Rita/ Vernon/ Dellaura/ Miranda & Brayden/ Nancy S/ Velma/ Jim/ Judy/ Ani/ Aaron Blum/ Robert/ Lloyd/ Patricia/ Marie/ Russell/ Virginia/ Barbara/ Grace/ Lauren/ Cindy/ Stephen/ John/ Tom Patterson/ Jan/ Tom/ Bob & family/ Jean/ Al/ Carol W/ Mark/ Brian/ Pat/ Mark H/ Mike/ Chris/ Brady/ Patrick/ Zachary

If you have prayer requests to add to the Newsletter, email them to Clergy@stpaulsclaremore.org or reply to this email.

Save the Dates

Saturday, January 20, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Bishop's Committee Retreat in the Parish Hall
Sunday, January 21 - Bishop's Committee meeting
Saturday, January 27 @ 10am - Faithful Innovation regional meeting @ Grace, Muskogee
Thursday, February 1 @ 6:30pm - The Rev. Nancy's Celebration of New Ministry

St. Paul’s Online
Check us out! Like us! Share us! Follow us!
Find us on Facebook at St Paul’s Episcopal Church | Facebook
Follow us on Instagram at St Paul’s Episcopal Church Claremore (@stpaulsclaremore) • Instagram photos and videos

Greetings and salutations, Dear Ones!

Thus says the Lord, “I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” ~ Isaiah 43:19

Even Greater Things

This week (1/14), our Gospel lesson tells the story of Nathanael’s first encounter with Jesus whereupon Jesus tells him, “You will see greater things than these.” These words still ring true for us today! Join us this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. to learn more about some of the great things God is doing at St. Paul’s.

Good Book Club & Christian Formation

Sunday morning formation class is back in full swing. Last week (1/07), we began discussions on the Old Testament book of Genesis which will continue throughout the season of Epiphany.

This coming Sunday (1/14), we will discuss chapters two through ten, which takes us from the advent of humanity through the flood. Food for thought: These chapters in the first book of the Old Testament reveal a pattern which repeats throughout all of scripture – God chooses to work through humans to save humanity – a pattern which “reaches its most profound expression in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. [And,] God is [still] actively calling ordinary people…into the work of helping to repair creation and human community.” What are some ways in which you might pay closer attention to God’s call in your life? (from A Journey through Genesis, 36-38) 

All are welcome to join us each Sunday at 8:30 a.m. as we discuss how this ancient work of literature is still relevant today. Plus, don’t miss our daily Facebook posts which correlate with this exciting book study.

Coming Soon to a Coffee Hour Near You: God Chat!

You’ve been reading about it, and now, beginning in February, your Faithful Innovation team will begin to lead you in discussions about where and how we can see God working in our personal lives, in our congregation, and in our community. For example, recall the story of when you knew this church was yours. Or, when have you felt God really alive in your church (perhaps in the last month)? Think of ways that you might share your answers to these questions with your fellow parishioners, family, or friends.

And it’s as simple as that! Simple, yes; but the ripple effects of these conversations can be quite impactful! You definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to be part of the dialogue!

Fr. Bill’s Retirement Celebration

The ceremony for Fr. Bill and Carole was beautiful, thanks to the efforts of many! We believe they departed with full knowledge of how much they are loved and appreciated. If you were unable to attend, or missed the opportunity to say goodbye, cards and well-wishes may still be sent c/o St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1310 N. Sioux Ave., Claremore, OK 74017, or emailed to WVMartin@aol.com

Stewardship Campaign

Our stewardship campaign continues. If you would like to contribute to our 2024 budget, you may place your stewardship forms in the offering plate on Sundays, give them directly to Barbara, or mail them 

Barbara Bajon, Treasurer

c/o St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1310 N. Sioux Ave.

Claremore, OK 74017

To request that a stewardship form be emailed to you please reply to this message and type “Stewardship Form” in the message window.

Let Us Pray

• Pray for our Bishop’s Committee and congregation as we transition to new leadership, explore our dreams, and discern and chat about what God is doing and where God is leading us in 2024
• Pray for Tom Keenze as he prepares for knee replacement surgery
• Pray for the victims of the war in Ukraine
• Pray for Israel and Palestine, and for the victims of the war in Gaza
• For the needs of the members, family, and friends of our congregation, specifically Vernon/ Dellaura/ Bill & Carole/ Miranda & Brayden/ Nancy S/ Velma/ Jim/ Judy/ Ani/ Aaron Blum/ Robert/ Lloyd/ Patricia/ Marie/ Russell/ Virginia/ Barbara/ Grace/ Lauren/ Cindy/ Stephen/ John/ Tom Patterson/ Jan/ Tom/ Bob & family/ Jean/ Al/ Carol W/ Mark/ Brian/ Pat/ Mark H/ Mike/ Chris/ Brady/ Patrick/ Zachary

If you have prayer requests to add to the Newsletter, email them to Clergy@stpaulsclaremore.org or reply to this email.

Save the Dates 

• Friday & Saturday, January 12 & 13 – Bi-vocational Priest Retreat at St. Crispin’s
• Sunday, January 14 – 2^nd Sunday after Epiphany
• Wednesday, January 17 @ 11 a.m. – Northeast Clericus meeting @ St. Paul’s Claremore
• Saturday, January 20, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Bishop’s Committee Retreat in the Parish Hall
• Sunday, January 21 – Bishop’s Committee meeting
• Saturday, January 27 @ 10am – Faithful Innovation regional meeting (location TBA)
• Thursday, February 1 @ 6:30pm – The Rev. Nancy’s Celebration of New Ministry

St. Paul’s Online

Check us out! Like us! Share us! Follow us!

Find us on Facebook at St Paul’s Episcopal Church | Facebook

Follow us on Instagram at St Paul’s Episcopal Church Claremore (@stpaulsclaremore) • Instagram photos and videos

Happy 2024! May God bless all of you with joy and good health this year!

Fr. Bill’s Retirement Celebration

Of course, our top story for this week is the forthcoming celebration for Fr. Bill and Carole. You are invited to join us and The Rev. Canon Betsy Randall this Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. We will celebrate with Fr. Bill and Carole as they move on to the next phase of their life in ministry; and what a blessing it has been to have had them as a part of our lives here at St. Paul’s! Please plan to stay for the reception which will follow the service.

If you are unable to attend, gifts, cards, and well-wishes may be sent to Fr. Bill & Carole c/o St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1310 N. Sioux Ave., Claremore, OK 74017, or emailed to WVMartin@aol.com

Good Book Club & Christian Formation

Sunday morning formation class will resume this Sunday, January 7, at 8:30 a.m. Throughout the season of Epiphany, we will be following the Episcopal Church’s Good Book Club curriculum – reading the entire book of Genesis, and following reflections provided in the book A Journey through Genesis. Books and reading lists will be provided. 

This coming Sunday (1/07), we will discuss chapter one of Genesis and learn a little background about when and how it was written. Food for thought: Genesis 1:27 states that we are created B’Tezelem Elohim (in God’s image). How can the responsibility of knowing this help inform our choices? When can you see God’s image in others’ faces? When is it more difficult for you to see the image of God in other people?

All are welcome to join us as we discuss how this ancient work of literature is still relevant today.

Faithful Innovation & God Chat

How do we discover God’s mission in the world beyond our congregations? Into what is God calling us? Where might we meet Lydia along the way? Faithful Innovation is a program designed to help congregations discover new ways in which they might begin to move out into their communities. As part of this initiative, St. Paul’s has a lay-led team which will be providing opportunities for the entire congregation to participate in a little “God chat.”

What’s God chat, you may ask. It’s simply talking about where and how we can see God working in our personal lives, in our congregation, and in our community. For example, recall the story of when you knew this church was yours. Or, when have you felt God really alive in your church (perhaps in the last month)? Think of ways that you might share your answers to these questions with your fellow parishioners, family, or friends.

And it’s as simple as that! Simple, yes; but the ripple effects of these conversations can be quite impactful! Be on the lookout for opportunities that your Faithful Innovation team will be providing for you to engage in this exciting and ongoing conversation! 

Stewardship Campaign

Our stewardship campaign continues. If you would like to contribute to our 2024 budget, you may place your stewardship forms in the offering plate on Sundays, give them directly to Barbara, or mail them 

Barbara Bajon, Treasurer c/o St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1310 N. Sioux Ave. Claremore, OK 74017

To request that a stewardship form be emailed to you please reply to this message and type “Stewardship Form” in the message window.

Let Us Pray

• Pray for our Bishop’s Committee and congregation as we transition to new leadership, explore our dreams, and discern and chat about what God is doing and where God is leading us in 2024
• Pray for Tom Keenze as he prepares for knee replacement surgery
• Pray for the victims of the war in Ukraine
• Pray for Israel
• Remember the victims of the war in Gaza
• For the needs of the members, family, and friends of our congregation, specifically Bill & Carole Martin/ Miranda & Brayden/ Nancy S/ Velma/ Jim/ Judy/ Ani/ Aaron Blum/ Robert/ Jim Walker/ Lloyd/ Patricia/ Marie/ Russell/ Virginia/ Barbara/ Grace/ Lauren/ Cindy/ Anne & her family/ Sarah/ Matthew & Rushda/ Christoph & Jenn/ Teddy & family/ Linda, Ken, & their family/ Amy, Bill, & their family/ Stephen/ John/ Tom Patterson/ Jan/ Tom/ Bob & family/ Jean/ Al/ Carol W/ Mark/ Caroline & Rudy/ Bicky & Spencer/ Brian/ Pat/ Mark H/ Mike/ Chris/ Brady/ Patrick/ Zachary

If you have prayer requests to add to the Newsletter, email them to Clergy@stpaulsclaremore.org or reply to this email.

Save the Dates 

• Saturday, January 6 – Epiphany; Faithful Innovation team meeting @ 10 a.m.
• Sunday, January 7 – Fr. Bill’s retirement celebration at 9:30 a.m.; Christian Formation resumes at 8:30 a.m.; 1^st Sunday after Epiphany
• Friday & Saturday, January 12 & 13 – Bi-vocational Priest Retreat at St. Crispin’s
• Wednesday, January 17 @ 11 a.m. – Northeast Clericus meeting @ St. Paul’s Claremore
• Saturday, January 20, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Bishop’s Committee Retreat in the Parish Hall
• Saturday, January 27 @ 10am – Faithful Innovation regional meeting (location TBA)

St. Paul’s Online

Check us out! Like us! Share us! Follow us!

Find us on Facebook at St Paul’s Episcopal Church | Facebook

Follow us on Instagram at St Paul’s Episcopal Church Claremore (@stpaulsclaremore) • Instagram photos and videos