On Saturday night, June 26, 2010, at 7:00 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church is proud to host the traveling cast of the theatrical production, Fruit in its Season, a three-act play inspired by the Psalms of King David - Psalms 1, 2 and 3. There has always been a power to the parable—and in this day and age of vampires and werewolves, it is just wonderful to have a story about people that touches people and encourages people to be better people. 

The play is the story of David Lewis Meriwether, a young farmer who is surrounded by fervor for city growth and enticed to sell his property to make room for a new mall.  Conducting his business from a rocking chair in his humble abode, David is visited by all the city-s movers and shakers, who seem unable to get him to do so. 

The play is written by daily columnist Jonathan Richard Cring (www.jonathots.com), who is the winner of the Best Screenplay at the Top Ten Films in America and author of the new situation comedy, Commons.

"I have taken the soul, heart and passion of the great poet, David, and infused this trinity into a delicious story about human struggle and humor," says Mr. Cring from his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee. "Add a little music, singing, giggles and heart, and you've got a great evening that will always be remembered."

The presentation lasts seventy minutes and is suitable for the entire family.  There will be a free-will collection at the end of the evening to defray the costs of the traveling cast. 

On the website (www.fruitinitsseason.net) you will find some examples of the lines from the play and also some musical offerings.

No Charge. An offering will be taken.
Where: In the Nave of Christ Church

We are once again on the edge of summer when the rhythms of our lives change. It is the season of gardening, outdoor living, grilling, swimming, picnicking, vacationing, golf, and baseball.

Rhythms at Christ Church change as well. Most summer Sundays will not include a formal youth or adult Christian Discovery hour at 9 a.m., although it will not be unusual to find one or more spirited conversations over coffee and bagels in the parish hall.

A number of our young people will be attending camps this summer. Two of our flock will be on the staff of the Diocesan Program at Procter Camp and Conference Center: Art Paul and Emily Sexton.

A special treat is the musical Fruit In It’s Season that will be performed at Christ Church on Saturday, June 26, at 7 p.m. This three-act play explores issues of environmentalism and battles over the powers that rule our lives. Based on Psalms 1,2, and 3 this promises to be wonderful entertainment and a thought-provoking evening.

There is no charge, but an offering will be taken to support the acting troop. We’re also looking for homes for the actors (five people) to stay in for the night of the 26th following the performance. (Please call the parish office if you are willing to host.)

There will be an adult forum on Sunday, July 11, at 9 a.m. when our own Christ Church member Norma Ryan and her friend, Joanne Hale, will present a program entitled Modern Day Slavery: Men Named John. Recent reports identify Ohio as one of America’s most active states in human trafficking and the Dayton area leads the state. Norma and Joanne have worked to develop programs to assist women in escaping prostitution and have pioneered efforts to re-educate the “Johns.” Norma has recently been appointed to the Governor’s task force on this issue and will share her knowledge and experience with us. This is a good program for parents and teachers to learn about preventing sex trade activity that is now occurring in our local high schools and colleges.

August 13-15 is the Annual Canoeing and Camping Weekend that is always a highlight each summer. We stay and canoe from Morgan’s on the Little Miami River, which is just below Lebanon and I-71.

The Annual Parish Picnic and Worship in the Park will be August 22. Our friends from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church will join us once again. That service will be at 11 a.m. at Triangle Park in Dayton. (No 10:30 service that morning at 20 West First Street.)

Some of us are very ill or indisposed as I write this. We remain especially mindful of them and of the brokenness of our world, even as we enjoy the season as much as we are able. Keep the whole parish family in your prayers. For those who will be traveling . . . God go with you (and bring back reports from the places you visit)! For those who are in town . . . we hop to see you at one of our regular weekly Eucharists!

--John Paddock

The Episcopal Church in Montgomery and Greene Counties worshiped together as One People of God on Pentecost Sunday, May 23 at St. Margaret's Church. Bishop Thomas Breidenthal was the Preacher and Celebrant at this service which included Baptism, Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation of Baptismal Promises. Congratulations to those who were Baptized, Confirmed or Received: Clamaré Aden Smith (Baptized), Jason Hindsman and Ana Marie Van Vlack (Confirmed), and Debbie Anderson and Patricia Henrich (Received).

Over 500 people attended this Deanery service and the Diocese plans to put together a Flash Video depicting The Episcopal Church of Dayton which would be accessible from the diocesan web site. (www.diosohio.org)

SOLLI is a two-year training program for persons in our Diocese who want to expand their ministry beyond their congregation into the greater community and Diocese.  SOLLI meets three weekends per year at Procter Conference Center.   A strong learning community is created among the twenty to twenty five participants.  All of this is available for only $250 per year and financial assistance is available for those who need it.  Please check out the article about SOLLI in the May Interchange.

The seven learning areas of SOLLI are:

• Knowledge of the people and programs of the diocese
• Knowledge of Anglicanism
• Prayer and bible study
• Discussion of interfaith and ecumenical relationships 
• Commitment to peace and justice
• Training in group dynamics and process
• Training in leadership of congregations

SOLLI Weekends for 2010-2011 will be held at Procter Camp and Conference Center in London, Ohio, on September 24-26, 2010, January 21-23, 2011, and April 15-17, 2011. Participants help shape the content of the weekends according to their interests in these seven areas.  Each person is asked to participate in some area of Diocesan life and to share with other participants in developing one or two projects of interest. The program is directed by three Coordinators: Marsha Calloway, Bill Ubbes, and the Rev. Top Borden.

You can learn more about SOLLI at http://www.lifeformation.diosohio.org/solli.html.  If you are interested, talk to your Rector or priest in charge and then apply on line.  A letter or email of support from a lay person and a clergy person should be sent to kruttan@diosohio.org.  We only have ten available spaces for next year so please apply as soon as possible.  If you have questions please email or call 614-905-0945.  I hope you will give this your thoughtful consideration. (Brochures about SOLLI can be found on the bulletin board at church.)

The Sandwich Generation Support Group, June 20, at 9:00 a.m. in the Parish Hall.

A New Support Group forming-Many of us in our "middle years" (those of us in our 50's and 60's) are facing challenges in life we never expected: caring for elderly parents, raising grandchildren, dealing with ill spouses along with a host of other uninvited "life guests".  Sometimes these issues can overwhelm us and we do not know where to turn.  Many of us at Christ Church are facing these exact life surprises and talking about it with others may help.  Cindy Cooke will facilitate a group for those of us who need some support with these issues beginning later this summer.  There will be an informational/organizational meeting on June 20 at 9:00 a.m. (between the services) to discuss these issues and find a convenient time and location for us to get together and help each other.  Please join us if you are interested!   

Modern Day Slavery:  Men Named John.  Sunday, July 11, at 9:00 a.m. Presenters:  Norma Ryan and Joanne Hale. 

Norma and Joanne have worked to develop programs to assist women in escaping prostitution and have pioneered efforts to re-educate the “Johns.” Norma has recently been appointed to the Governor’s task force on human trafficking and will share her knowledge and experience with us.  Recent reports identify Ohio as one of America’s most active states in human trafficking and the Dayton area leads the state. This is a good program for parents and teachers to learn about preventing sex trade activity that is now occurring in our local high schools and colleges.

A CityHeart Moment . . . this is the second in a series of “where are they now” articles giving updates on some of our clients.  It has been almost four years since Susie and Bobby first walked through our doors, Susie in a wheelchair with Bobby pushing from behind. They were exhausted, hungry and thirsty on that hot summer day in July of 2007, asking if we might help with food and transportation. So began a relationship where we would witness this couple going through many hardships and tests of faith.

Susie was the victim of a serious accident where, as a pedestrian, she was hit by a truck. Up until that time, I believe that they were a hardworking couple living from paycheck to paycheck. The scenario that unfolded brings such awareness to what could happen to many of us in the face of a catastrophic illness or injury. After her initial hospitalization, Susie was sent home to await additional surgeries, needing almost constant care. Bobby was forced to quit working to become her caregiver. They were uninsured and would need to go through the arduous process of getting Susie established as “disabled” to be eligible for Medicaid care and Social Security Income. That first summer, while Dayton was experiencing a heat wave, they were traveling about town daily on the RTA bus for numerous medical and social service appointments. Through our CityHeart program, we were able to help them obtain: medical supplies, bus passes, Benefit Bank help, home health referrals, special needs food pantry services for diabetics, and other miscellaneous needs over the course of many months. These folks were experiencing extenuating circumstances and Christ Church responded with care.

In their attempts to keep up with medical care and live on a very limited income, Susie and Bobby became homeless. When they had money they stayed in a motel, but mostly they stayed at the homeless shelter where married couples must be separated. Susie eventually landed in a nursing home where she received care and Bobby returned to work part-time and stayed at the shelter. During 2008, the health condition of Susie continued to deteriorate with an infection in the bone resulting in amputation of her leg. She suffered a heart attack and series of strokes that left her in a diabetic coma for five months until her death.

For the most part, Bobby held up strong during those two years, even though he had some neglected health problems of his own. Under all of the stress he reported “falling off the wagon” numerous times and also had a few “run-ins” with the law, minor offenses, but causing him trouble nonetheless.  Upon the death of Susie he was overcome by grief with the loss of his soul-mate and began a downward spiral of substance abuse. He spent time in an out-of-town residential treatment facility that helped greatly and was back to Dayton in April of 2009. Bobby reported patiently that he was finally on the list to get a knee replacement and was now being seen at the homeless clinic for his other medical needs. It was time now to take care of himself.

After a year of not seeing or hearing from him, I ran into Bobby at Good Samaritan North just last month where he was at an appointment for surgery follow-up. In God’s time, he finally got his knee surgery in 2010! He is staying at Good Samaritan Respite Care and says once he is fully recovered he will be eligible for a special work program. He wants to return to being a productive member of society. He looks good, is full of hope, and is always greatly appreciative for the support he received and friends he made at Christ Church.

Kris Sexton

The Dayton Episcopal Ministry's
Community Garden 1st Year's Planting

The Dayton Deanery Community Garden has been started on the grounds of St. Margaret's Episcopal Church. The harvest from this Garden will go to the Deanery food pantry located at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church.

Volunteers are welcome and need to come help us plant, upkeep and harvest the produce. If you would like to make a donation of time, supplies, need more information, or would like to donate money, please contact Maureen Boyles at mv_boyles@yahoo.com or call after 9 pm at 274-2774. Look for further updates in coming issues and at church. Come help us grow food to feed our community good food.

Rebuilding Together Dayton

We had a very successful 2010 Rebuilding Together Dayton (RTD) day April 24.  Our Dayton Deanery sponsored a house rehab and also volunteered to rehab house.  We had a great day and completed 16 projects for our homeowner, Denise.  Denise was very happy with what we accomplished.  We replaced an external door, replaced three storm doors, refinished the front door, repaired seven windows, dug a new drain for a gutter downspout, put up privacy fence, repaired the gutter downspouts, replaced electrical switches, repaired a ceiling fan, installed a brick edge, and built a new handrail.  Since it rained we setup a second day and were able to complete additional projects.  Everyone had a great time and got to work with folks throughout our Deanery.  We had over 50 folks throughout the day and participation by 6 churches.  There were over 30 homes rehabbed as part of the 2010 RTD program.  Hopefully we will be able to participate again next year.  Thanks to all those who participated from Christ Church: Mary Grech, Pat Smith, Jerry Smith, Josh Anderson, Mike Whittington, Tim Rifle, Tom Schaefer, Frank Boensch, Stan Musick, Greg Sexton, and Abby Slenski.

In His Service, George Slenski, CEC Outreach

YOUTH GROUP TO SERVE AT
GOOD EARTH HUNGER MISSION - June 14-20, 2010

The Good Earth Hunger Mission grows and gleans fresh produce for food pantries, women's shelters, and free meal programs in Athens County. In addition to feeding the hungry, this ministry educates volunteers about local, sustainable agriculture and helps reconnect people from a variety of backgrounds with the earth. Volunteers help in the garden each week doing everything from planting to harvesting. Many of you were in church on Appalachian Sunday Feb. 14, when Paul Clever visited Christ Church and spoke of his mission and work as the director of Good Earth. In June, our youth group will return to Athens for mission work. Older youth and adults will arrive early in the week to work on building projects to include an outdoor shower to be used by mission groups coming to the farm, and the construction of a greenhouse. Other youth and chaperones will join later in the week to help with the garden and farm chores. The mission trip will be a week of service and learning for all participants. We ask for the prayers and support of the congregation as we undertake this opportunity for servant ministry. More information about Good Earth can be found at the following link.  http://www.chogs.org/goodearth.htm

Youth Group Car Wash

June 13, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon
Christ Church Parking Lot

Final Mission Trip Fundraiser

The Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio                            
2010 Summer Camp                                                                     

It's that time of year again!  
Join other families and youth for fun at the
2010 Summer Camp Season
at Procter Camp and Conference Center.

• 123 Camp (June 30-July 3) $200 per camper:
  -For children entering 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade and one adult chaperone.
  -We will learn Bible Knowledge and Bible Trivia.
• Boys and Girls Camp (July 6-10) $200 per camper:
  -For children entering 4th or 5th grade.
  -Learn about prayer, Bible Scavenger Hunt.
• Junior Camp (August 2-7) $220 per camper:
  -For Children entering 6th or 7th grade.
  -Learn to read the lessons, write prayers, and learn about the Bible through the Bible Amazing Race!
• Intermediate Camp (July 26-31) $220 per camper:
  -For those entering 8th or 9th Grade.
  -Learn about Liturgy, the Bible and share your faith with others.
• Senior High Camp (July 19-24) $220 per camper:
  -For those entering 10th, 11th, 12th grade, and graduated seniors.
  -There are many formation tracks to choose from, including Biblical Storytelling, Peer Ministry, Worship through Music, Carrying Your Faith Confidently after High School, among many others.
• Creation Camp (July 12-16) $200 per camper:
  - For those entering 6th-12th Grade.
  -Formation tracks will focus on Creative Arts and Sports.
• Outdoor Adventure Camp (June 30-July 3) $200 per camper:
  -For those entering 6th-12th Grade.
  -See God in nature as you sleep in a tent, learn to cook your own food, and participate in many outdoor activities such as canoeing!
• Family Camp (June 25-27, July 16-18, or August 11-14) $120 per adult camper, $60 per child camper under the age of 18:
  -Age specific activities.  Bible Study for all ages.
  -Spend quality time with your family.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE DIOCESAN SUMMER CAMP
REGISTER ONLINE NOW!

Christ Church
Canoe and Camping Trip

Hosted by the
Youth of Christ Church
August 12-14
The Little Miami River
Ft. Ancient, Ohio
No age limit, but children younger than Youth Group
must be accompanied by an adult.
(More details in the July Broadcast)

Four Great Movies of Faith
from 6:15-9:00 p.m.
Wednesdays:  June 2, July 7, and August 4 from 6:15-9:00 p.m. and
Sunday: August 15 after the service
at
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church
1060 Salem Ave.
Dayton, OH 45406
937.278.7345

Wednesday, June 2
THEY KILLED SISTER DOROTHY: The 2008 documentary directed by
Daniel Junge, about the trials of the men responsible for the murder of Daytonian, Sister Dorothy Stang, targeted for trying to save the Amazonian rainforest and help the peasants living in it. Remarkable for capturing the sense of entitlement of the powerful ranchers ultimately brought before the Brazilian courts for paying some poor men to shoot her.

Wednesday, July 7
DOUBT: The 2008 film written and directed by Patrick Shaneley about a priest in a Catholic school suspected of pedophilia. The story raises questions about how to proceed when sexual abuse is suspected. Is the suspicion justified or is it based on an overactive imagination? Does one destroy someone's reputation or career on mere suspicion? Does one just keep quiet?

Wednesday, August 4
THE APOSTLE: The 2008 movie, directed by Robert Duvall, who also stars in it as an enthusiastic, charismatic, evangelical preacher, who kills his assistant in a fit of rage after discovering his own wife is having an affair with the man. He flees punishment to set up a small church in an out-of-the-way Louisiana town, but knows that at any moment the past may catch up with him. The work explores his complex character, opposing his sincere apostolic fervor with his very human passions of sexual desire and anger.

Sunday, August 15 after the service with lunch provided at intermission.
THAIS 2009: Metropolitan Opera extravaganza starring Thomas Hampson as an early Christian, cenobitic monk who leaves his desert retreat to go to the great city, Alexandria, convinced that he can turn the glamorous courtesan (Renee Fleming) from her life of sin and pleasure. The story, based on the novel by Anatole France, opposes the hedonistic and ascetic, the physical and the spiritual, at their most extreme. In addition to great music (Massenet) and wonderful singers in parts seemingly made for their talents, Ms. Fleming's costumes were designed for her by Christian LaCroix, and the Met dancers are extraordinary.  As former parishioner Peg Cooper said, it's “everything grand opera should be!”

Water Safety Tips

• "Buddy up!" That's what swimming instructors say. Always swim with a partner, every time
• Take water safety classes. Learning some life-saving skills, such as CPR and rescue techniques, can help you save a life.
• Know your limits:
  Never swim in water you don't know - there could be hidden dangers.
  Don't swim far from shore if you are not an expert swimmer. You may tire and not be able to get back to shore.
  Swim in safe areas only.
• Be careful about diving. Diving injuries can cause permanent spinal cord damage, paralysis, and sometimes even death.
• Watch the sun. Sun reflecting off the water or off sand can intensify the burning rays. You might not feel sunburned when the water feels cool and refreshing, but the pain will catch up with you later - so remember to reapply sunscreen frequently and cover up much of the time
• Drink plenty of fluids. It's easy to get dehydrated in the sun, particularly if you're active and sweating.
• Getting too cool. Staying in very cool water for long periods can lower your body temperature. If you feel your body start to shiver or your muscles cramp up, get out of the water quickly; it doesn't take long for hypothermia to set in.
• Alcohol and water never mix. Alcohol is involved in numerous water-related injuries and up to half of all water-related deaths. One half of all adolescent male drownings are tied to alcohol use.
• Boating Safety. More people die in boating accidents every year than in airplane crashes or train wrecks, but a little common sense can make boating both enjoyable and safe. If you are going to go boating, make sure the captain or person handling the boat is experienced and competent.
• Personal flotation devices. It's always a good idea for everyone on the boat to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, whether the boat is a large speedboat, jet ski or a canoe - and whether you're a good swimmer or not. If you fall in the water in an accident you could be knocked out or be disorientated. The vest will bring you to the surface.
• Watch children around water!!! Kids are attracted to water but they don't know its danger. NEVER let children go near a lake, ponds, streams, pools or even bath tubs unless accompanied by an adult. Children have drowned in very small amounts of water so always be careful.

Patricia A Barnett, RN, JD
NEHM Regional Representative - Province II

Due to the Vestry Retreat in April,
there was not a Vestry meeting in April.

The complete vestry minutes are posted on the bulletin board
in the main hallway of the church.

Contemplative Prayer Group will resume meeting on Wednesdays on August 4 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at United Theological Seminary, 4501 Denlinger Road, Harriet L. Miller Women's Center (2nd floor)

This approach to prayer emphasizes silence and relies on instruction from the 14th century book The Cloud of Unknowing and Centering Prayer as taught by monastics Thomas Keating and Basil Pennington as well as influences from other contemplative paths. 

This group does not confine their prayer practice to those found exclusively in Christian groupings.  Their approach to prayer respects and embraces the contemplative approach found in other religious and spiritual disciplines.  They welcome serious, like-minded people who wish to cultivate an interior life of prayer. 

Look for more information on the Christ Church bulletin board or call Brian Billar, 937-768-5023.