The Bishops Committee of the Church is faced with some tough decisions. The running of the church is an honor we volunteer for each year, however times are now more dire than in past years. We have a proposed budget based on pledges that doesn't cover basics like electricity and payroll. We don't know where else to cut and where else to raise funds.  We still owe last year’s apportionment of $11,000.00 and need to pay it.    Please help. Your prayers, ideas, and support are needed. There will be changes in the coming months. Let your voice and opinions be heard.  The Bishop’s Committee is here to serve you.   


There will be a special meeting to be held at the Cliff Maus Village Activity room on Monday March 1st at 2:00 pm.  The purpose of the meeting is to discuss “What is our ministry at Cliff Maus Village?”  The discussion among Lay representatives of local parishes will be led by Jill Oettinger, the Executive Director of the Good Samaritan Center in San Antonio.  If you have interest in this ministry and would like to be a representative for our Church, please visit with the Rev. Dávila as soon as possible.




The Annual Council of the Diocese of West Texas will meet in Corpus Christi on February 18-20th.  Over 1500 people gather to do the business of the Church.  Reports are made by the various Commissions and Committees of the Church, a two year budget is voted upon for the next calendar year, and a proposed budget is accepted for the year following.  The area Episcopal Churches along with the hosting Church, The Church of the Good Shepherd, will assist with hospitality. Six dozen or more cookies are needed from each Church. You may bake the cookies and freeze them in disposable containers for delivery to the Church of the Good Shepherd, 700 S. Broadway, from February 15th  to the 17th prior to the Council meeting.


One of the most important traits of Christians over the centuries is one of hospitality.  It is a vital ministry that we all should be concerned about.  All are called to be good hosts.  You can help by signing up for one Sunday morning to provide goodies for about 80 people (This is for both 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services).  The sign-up list is on the Bulletin Board outside the kitchen area. Two can also sign up for one Sunday.



The Rt. Rev. David Reed, Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of West Texas, will visit us on March 7th.   The oversight and care of mission Churches are now part of his responsibilities.  I believe this is a very good step in maintaining a more balanced view of Churches in the Diocese.  Over the last 20 years,  Mission congregations have been greatly impacted by changes made at the Diocesan level. Having a voice at the Administrative level will greatly aid in the discussion of the special challenges that mission congregations face. Come join us for a reception for the Bishop following the service.


On Fat Tuesday February 16th, we will have the traditional pancake supper.  We will start serving pancake and sausage plates at 6:00 p.m.  The cost of the meal will be $ 5.50 for adults, $ 3.00 for children under 12 or $ 15.00 per family. All you can eat!  We also ask that you bring your Palm Crosses so that ashes can be prepared for the following morning.

  



We will observe Maundy Thursday on April 1st with the solemn service depicting the Last Supper and stripping of the Altar at 7:00 p.m.  On Friday night, April 2, also at 7:00 p.m. we will walk the Way of the Cross  in which lay readers will lead us on the Via Dolorosa. Come join us for these two events that have been used by the Church for hundred of years to help us understand the events of Holy Week.