Here at St. Philip’s there are a variety of ways to get involved in parish life. There are activities and ministries for those who have lots of free time – and for the vast majority of us who do not! Through these ministries, each of us is given an opportunity to grow closer to God and help others to do the same.
As you look at these ministry descriptions, listen to the quiet whispers in your heart. What is God calling you to do in this time and this place?
Absalom Jones was the first African-American priest ordained in the Episcopal Church. This committee is responsible for the installation of an Absalom Jones Memorial Window in our Parish Hall. The members also established a scholarship fund to support students in institutions of higher learning who exemplify the attributes of Absalom Jones – devotion to God, service to others, active leadership, and a thirst for education. The window and fund are dedicated to the rich legacy of the Reverend Jones’ persistent faith in God and Church. St. Philip’s seeks to honor his legacy as we continue to free ourselves from every bond of prejudice and fear.
Applications are due on March 31.
Contact Arleen Leis | arleen.leis@gmail.com | 301.490.2844
Do you think that Sunday morning services would be more interesting if your children were part of the ministry team at the altar?
You’re right! Children aged 7 and older are encouraged to consider being acolytes. Acolytes light the candles on the altar, carry crosses and torches in procession, and assist Eucharistic Ministers with the distribution of Holy Communion.
Contact Amanda Colindres | acolytes@stphilipslaurel.org
The Adult Forum takes place on Sundays during the 9:00 a.m. education hour. For many of us, Christian Education stopped after we were confirmed. The goal of this ministry is to provide Christian education opportunities to adults. There are sessions on a particular topic, and also topics that encompass several sessions. Past topics have included a study of labyrinths, prayer, the play “Doubt”, and other topics of interest. Members of the parish are encouraged to suggest topics of interest – and can also be tapped to lead sessions.
Contact The Rev. Sheila McJilton | 301.776.5151
Much of what makes a liturgy beautiful happens behind the scenes, and much of that work is done by the members of the Altar Guild. Members prepare the church for worship, dress he altar and ready vestments. Members also arrange altar flowers and greenery, polish the silver and brass, and generally make all things bright and beautiful for our worship. If you are interested in being part of this quiet “behind the scenes” ministry, please call Betsy.
Contact Betsy Brothers | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism is one of the two major sacraments in our church (the other is Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion). Holy Baptism takes place within the context of church community, and in the Episcopal Church, is only administered privately in the case of a life-threatening emergency. Our Book of Common Prayer sets aside special Sundays during the church year for baptisms: The Easter Vigil, the Feast of Pentecost, the Feast of All Saints, and the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord. If necessary, other Sundays may be considered after conversation with the Rector. Adults, young people or babies may be baptized at St. Philip’s. The rector and a lay team meet with and prepare candidates, and their families and godparents, for this sacrament. In addition, this ministry sews individual banners to be used during the baptismal liturgy.
Contact The Rev. Sheila McJilton | 301.776.5151
The Bible is a rich feast – with the story of the people of God. As Episcopalians, we believe that the Bible is the word of God, although not always the “words of God.” Bible Study is a mid-week oasis of sharing and fellowship, offering us the opportunity to enrich our lives through a deeper understanding of God’s word. We meet on Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 am. Occasional visitors are as welcome as regulars; come and see what we can discover together!
Contact The Rev. Sheila McJilton | 301.776.5151
The bookkeeper is responsible for maintaining the St. Philip’s financial records. This includes accounting for the expense and revenue for the church, preparing checks for signature, generating financial statements, reconciling the bank accounts, and supporting the financial audit.
Contact Amie Littmann | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Bread bakers create part of “the gifts of God for the people of God” at all Eucharistic services, a gift to all who receive communion. When Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, that bread had been lovingly made for his meal. In the same way, the members of this guild make the bread that is then blessed and broken to feed our community.
Contact Char Tolle | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This Summer Day Camp for children of St. Philip’s and others is held for one week every July. Participants learn about our faith through stories, songs, crafts, and other activities. The week concludes with a cookout and short program. We rely on many adults, most of whom volunteer for a day or for the same several hours daily. In 2008 Camp St. Philip’s will be held from July 14—18.
Contact Betsy Welsh | betsywelsh@verizon.net
This annual event provides much needed fun and fellowship during the darkest nights of winter. Cooks vie for the best chili, cornbread and dessert. Some of the proceeds from this event help to fund our St. Philip’s Community Thanksgiving Dinner. New entrants and hearty eaters are welcome!
Contact Char Tolle | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
The Adult Choir always welcomes new members with the following voices: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone/Bass, ... or “other!” There is no audition - anyone with a love for music and a desire to sing to the glory of God is invited to join. The choir sings at the 10:15 am service and rehearses on Thursday evenings, 7:30 – 9:00 pm.
Contact Saunders Allen | sallen@pallottihs.org
The clear and beautiful sound of handbells enriches the music and worship at St. Philip’s. New members are always welcome to contribute their time and talent to this ministry. Volunteers who can read music are most welcome, though there are some members who don’t read music as well! The Bell Choir normally practices on Monday evenings, 7:30 – 9:00 pm, October through June.
Contact Kelli Young | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Children in grades 2 through 6 are invited to join this choir, which sings at the 10:15 am service on the third Sunday of each month and for other special events. Rehearsals are held on Sunday mornings 11:30 am – 1:00 pm October through June.
Contact Kelli Young | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Christian Education as Sunday School is provided most weeks from September to May for ages 4 to Grade 8. We are using four themes for the year with each class studying the same theme. Christian Education is held Sundays from 9:00—10:00 am. We ask all adults of the parish to offer to help during at least one unit.
Contact Lea Fitzsimons or Liz Lakey | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
These classes prepare teens (9th – 12th graders) or adults for Confirmation or Reception into the Episcopal Church. If you have been confirmed in a church with apostolic succession (bishops) such as the Roman Catholic or Orthodox church, the Episcopal Church recognizes your Confirmation, and will receive you officially. All other adults who have been baptized, either in the Episcopal Church or other denominations, can be confirmed. The liturgy of Confirmation, presided over by Bishop John Chane, is celebrated several times a year at the Washington National Cathedral.
In the spring of 2008, an Adult Inquirers’ Class will begin on Sunday, March 30 (the Sunday after Easter) at 9:00 a.m., between Sunday morning services. We will meet every Sunday in April, and our final Sunday morning class will be on May 4th. Confirmation is on Saturday morning, May 17th at 10:00 a.m. at the Washington National Cathedral. We will also probably do some kind of special dinner or evening retreat to conclude our work together, and the group itself will make this decision. All lay leaders at St. Philip’s are strongly encouraged to experience the sacrament of Confirmation.
If you have never been confirmed or received into the Episcopal Church, OR if you are just interested in exploring and deepening your faith, please join us on March 30th. We’ll have sign-up sheets available in Wyatt Hall very soon.
Contact The Rev. Sheila N. McJilton | 301.776.5151
Elected Diocesan Convention Delegates represent St. Philip’s at the annual Diocesan Convention—as an alternate for one year and as a delegate for the next year. The Diocesan Convention conducts elections; votes on the budget, resolutions, changes to the diocesan Constitution and Canons, any other actions presented; hears reports, etc. It includes the clergy of the Diocese as well as elected lay representatives from each of the ninety-five congregations, ex-officio members, and visitors. Delegates also attend Regional Meetings (Region 5) and may attend special conventions at other times, generally held for the purpose of electing a bishop, or some other purpose. Delegates report back to St. Philip’s on issues raised at Convention. Nominations for Diocesan Convention Delegate are solicited in Nov/Dec for the parish election held at the Parish’s Annual Meeting (usually February). Term of office is two years.
Contact Douglas Hayes (Sr. Warden) | 301.498.1834
This house, located in Laurel near St. Philip’s, contains both a meal kitchen and food pantry, which distributes groceries to families in need. St. Philip’s volunteers the 3rd Monday of every month for the closing shift (6 – 8 pm). We serve dinner, distribute lunches, clean up and leave the house in good order for the following day. New volunteers are cordially welcome.
Contact Deb Fitzer or Terry Betzer | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
These are the men and women of the parish who assist clergy in services of Holy Eucharist by serving the chalice of wine. Eucharistic Ministers require appointment by the Rector and licensing by the Bishop for a three-year term. If you are interested in being a part of this important ministry, we would love to welcome you on board and get you trained.
Contact Eileen Collins | euchminister@stphilipslaurel.org
or The Rev. Sheila N. McJilton | 301.776.5151
This Vestry-chartered committee reviews and makes recommendations regarding the budget, contracts, designated funds, investments, insurance, endowments, planned giving, bookkeeping, and long-term financial planning. If you have a gift with finances, we welcome you to this group that meets monthly.
Contact Jim Marchbank | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This annual event occurs the Sunday (Advent 4) before Christmas – and all ages are welcome to join in the fun! Members of the parish first cut greens (usually the week before), then gather in The Ministry Center to tie bunches of greens to ropes that are later hung in the church as decoration for the Christmas season. A light lunch consisting of soup and bread is shared following the greening.
Contact Chuck Steinecke | steinecke@erols.com
Do you want to help our church’s bottom line without increasing your own pledge, and by doing something you have to do anyway? Following each service on Sunday, volunteers with a green bag sell gift cards for several local grocery stores. The church receives up to 5% of the value of all gift cards sold and there is no added cost to you! For most stores, you just use your card; several other grocery stores only require an on-line sign up. To get more details, talk with the ‘green bag volunteer’ in Wyatt Hall after services.
Contact Vi Turley | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This is “The Craft Event” of the year at St. Philip’s. It is held the Saturday before Thanksgiving and features the handicrafts made by the Craft Group. In addition to handmade items, food, crafts for children, door prizes, Grandma’s Attic (white elephants) and a photo opportunity with Santa Claus are provided. Volunteers to help set up (on Friday), sell, and clean up are welcome.
Contact Betsy Brothers | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
There are several ways of helping with food hospitality at St. Philip’s. First, our Hospitality Committee responds to the occasional request for help, by serving a light brunch, luncheon or organizing pot lucks for hospitality events. The activities usually take place on Sunday after the 10:15 service.
Second, members of the parish help provide light refreshments following funeral services at the church. Volunteers who are willing to donate items are always welcome.
Lastly, on short notice, our “Kitchen Angels” disrupt their daily routine to respond with comforting food to parishioners in crisis.
Contact admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Ushers greet and assist parishioners as they arrive and participate in worship. Ushers hand out bulletins, help worshippers find seats, take up the collection, and present the offerings at the altar. Ushers also count the number of people in attendance for the parish records, and straighten up the sanctuary after the service.
Contact Bob Mamula (7:30 am) | mamula@longandfoster.com Amanda Colindres (10:15 am) | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Remember how hard it was to be the “new kid” in school? Sometimes going to a new church can feel the same way. Members of the Welcoming Committee reach out to and welcome the new members of our parish community with special brunches and other activities. They also create the “goody bags” which are given to all newcomers and visitors each Sunday.
Contact Susan Hayes | 301.498.1834
Sometimes because of injuries or other reasons, our parish family members need help to join us for worship or other activities. The Wheels for Worship Committee can help. These volunteers provide an occasional ride to church for members of the parish who cannot drive. Parishioners call the office to request a ride, and potential drivers are contacted by the Parish Administrator. Drivers and riders agree on the date and time of service. Additional drivers are always welcome.
Contact Sue O’Connor at 410.461.4382 or Terry Betzer at 301.498.1330
Lectors are lay people who participate in ministry by reading the appointed lessons and psalms. Lectors, sought from the congregation, will usually volunteer and remain on the roster until requesting to be removed. The roster is established in advance for three-four months. Lectors receive training by lay leaders or clergy, and may prepare in advance. Lectors often seek a deeper understanding of the Bible through the appointed lessons.
Contact Eileen Collins | euchministers@stphilipslaurel.org
There are many lay people who serve as both Lectors and Intercessors, and so there is often an overlap between these ministries. However, it is possible to serve as one or the other. Members of this ministry read the Prayers of the People from the lectern at Sunday services. Intercessors are trained and scheduled well in advance to participate in our many services.
Contact Julie Waters or Eileen Collins | euchministers@stphilipslaurel.org
St. Philip’s was one of the founding members of this ministry. LARS, an ecumenical ministry serving the Greater Laurel area, assists homeless and low-income individuals or families in crisis with emergency and long-term services. Members of St. Philip’s serve on LARS’ Board of Directors; participate in the Winterhaven program at St. Philip’s, help in the office, or assist in other LARS events.
Contact LARS | 301-776-0442
These parishioners work to ensure that St. Philip’s many ministries participate in Laurel’s annual Main Street Festival held in May. Traditionally the Craft Group, Men’s Group, and Outreach Committee provide craft items, food, and other services. In addition, St. Philip’s also provides children’s games and runs a book sale during the Festival. The committee determines how many booths will be needed, ensures the applications are submitted in a timely fashion, and that set up and clean up of the booths is done promptly.
Contact admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This ministry offers opportunities to strengthen fellowship and service among the men of St. Philip’s. It organizes monthly breakfasts on the 3rd Saturday of each month and arranges occasional speakers and field trips. It is open to all men in the parish.
Contact Chuck Steinecke | steinecke@erols.com
Volunteers publish this vital monthly parish newsletter, which includes layout, folding, addressing, and mailing to each parishioner. Articles about parishioners and parish activities are always welcome. Additional hands to help produce The Messenger are most welcome.
Contact Laura Waters | lauraw208@hotmail.com
From 9:00 a.m. - Noon on Sunday mornings, a Nursery is available for children from newborn to age 4. The Nursery is in The Ministry Center, convenient to Wyatt Hall. For other parish events, the nursery may be opened if there are volunteers to staff it. All laypeople who work in the Nursery must have taken Safeguarding God’s Children, a diocesan standards of conduct program.
Contact Eileen Collins | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This Ministry’s broad umbrella includes activities at Laurel’s Main Street Festival, St. Philip’s Community Thanksgiving Dinner, Winterhaven, Christmas Box Program and many other programs. The Committee sponsors food drives for LARS and school supply drives for the needy as well. The opportunities for outreach are ever growing. Meetings are at 9 am on the first Sunday of each month. This group also offers Free Trade coffee for sale between services on the first Sunday of each month.
Contact Cynthia Chase | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This annual event takes place on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. The Acolytes and their parents host this fellowship supper and the proceeds are used by the Acolytes as needed.
Contact Amanda Colindres | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This committee plans the annual parish picnic held in June. Volunteers are solicited for this event in early spring, so the time commitment is short. There is a Standard Operating Procedure Manual to help in the planning process.
Contact Parish Administrator | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Licensed Eucharist Ministers and other caring parishioners take the Eucharist to the sick, homebound and others who are unable to get to church. Additionally, this group also responds to the needs of parishioners and others by sending cards to the ill and shut-in; and administering the Almoner’s Fund which can be used to help those in financial need. The Pastoral Care Ministers also minister to the dying and bereaved, as needed.
Contact Nancy Marchbank or Maureen Steinecke | 301.776.5151 ext. 13
This committee of lay people oversees the buildings, grounds, and equipment of St. Philip’s. Parish “work-days” are organized as opportunities for parishioners to help out with general cleanings and projects that need a team effort.
Contact Parish Administrator | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
The members of this ministry seek on behalf of the parish to maximize the use of our facilities by renting them, when not in use for church functions, to those who wish to utilize the facilities for appropriate community uses, such as weddings, parties, meetings, rehearsals, recitals, etc.
Contact Parish Administrator | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
The goal of this group is to foster an environment of giving at St. Philip’s: giving of time, treasure, and talent to the greater glory of God. Stewardship at St. Philip’s is involved in many aspects of parish life and strives to encourage and acknowledge service to the church and within the community.
Contact Debbie Dusterwald | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
A team of tellers count the Sunday collection of pledge payments and plate offerings, as well as offerings received at special parish events and special services. They keep pledge records up to date, and prepare bank deposits. Additional tellers are always welcome.
Contact Elmer Jess or Doug Hayes | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Begun in 1988, this event is anticipated every year in Laurel. It is a free dinner of turkey or ham, and all the fixin’s, served in Wyatt Hall and, for others, delivered to their homes and apartments. It is not just for “others” but for “ourselves” as well… many parish members want to share this meal with fellow parishioners and folks from the community in the spirit of the season of gratitude. Volunteers are needed to assemble the food, bake and cook, set up and clear tables, serve food, clean up, deliver meals, and welcome everyone who wants to celebrate Thanksgiving at St. Philip’s.
Contact Char Tolle | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
The treasurer and assistant treasurer are responsible for maintaining the St. Philip’s financial records. This includes accounting for the expenses and revenue for the church, generating financial statements, signing checks prepared by the bookkeeper, reconciling the bank accounts, and supporting the financial audit. The treasurer works with other ministries to report their financial status and maintains the official accounting system for the church.
Contact Amie Littmann | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Vestry members and Wardens are elected annually at the Parish Meeting and serve as the lay leaders and officers of St. Philip’s. They are responsible for parish finances and property issues, defining the parish vision and mission, and selecting the Rector. The Vestry works closely with the Rector to ensure effective parish organization, planning and resource management that supports the parish vision and mission and promotes a parish atmosphere of spiritual nourishment and Christian service. The Vestry and Rector are also responsible for conducing mutual Ministry reviews.
Contact Any current Warden or Vestry member (see back of Sunday bulletin)
This ministry uses the St. Philip’s website to inform the St. Philip’s community of general information, ongoing and upcoming events along with forms for feedback, registration, etc. Additionally the website serves as a welcoming beacon to people searching the internet for active, living and loving Christian communities like St. Philip’s.
Contact Joanne Woytek or Rachel Yang | webminister@stphilipslaurel.org
This ministry provides a respite from the freezing sidewalks during the winter and is carried out by many churches in the Laurel area for the coldest months. At St. Philip’s, The Ministry Center and Parish House are opened to homeless men and women for one week. Members of the parish provide a hot dinner and packaged lunches for our guests, who can also get a hot shower while they are with us. Volunteers are needed to check guests in, cook, wash linens, or spend the night.
Contact Jenny Wall | LARS | 301-776-0442)
This Ministry offers a variety of opportunities for fellowship and service, which is open to all women in the parish.
Afternoon Guild: This social group meets at 1:00 p.m. on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from September through June for tea and fellowship. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Craft Group: Meets every Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. in The Ministry Center to create items for sales at various festivals and bazaars throughout the year.
Contact Betsy Brothers | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
Gypsy Quilters: The quilters group meets every Tuesday evening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. to work on quilts used for fundraising raffles. Join the Gypsy Quilters in the Parish House and perfect your stitch, teach us some new quilting techniques or just learn how to quilt. Also, have some fun and help while supporting the church mission.
Contact Vi Turley or Tina Higgins | admin@stphilipslaurel.org
This group works to support and enrich the worship experience at St. Philip’s for all parishioners. It is composed of clergy, staff, and lay people actively seeking and promoting ways to engage the congregation in an inspiring and meaningful worship experience. It also strives to put all of our worship within the context both of glorifying God in worship and the overall vision and mission of St. Philip’s parish.
Contact The Rev. Sheila N. McJilton | 301.776.5151
Volunteers run this formative program for young people in grades 7 – 12. The group meets semi-monthly for social outings and Christian fellowship. This is a unique opportunity to share your love and guidance, and to make a difference in the lives of our youth.
Contact Betsy Burke | admin@stphilipslaurel.org