We walk the way of the cross with Jesus during Holy Week. I invite you to join your community in prayer during this time. The service times are listed below. As we encounter the suffering of the cross we find God united to us in our own suffering, and we find God offering us resurrection and new life. There is a list of services and times below.
We will also celebrate and welcome folks on Easter Sunday. You might see someone you haven't seen in a while. A stranger might sit in "your" seat. Thanks be to God. Christ is Risen! There will be an Easter egg hunt and some social time in the courtyard following our 10:30 Easter day service.
Many of us have contracted COVID over the past week. I encourage folks to take whatever precautions they need to take. I will be masking and keeping some distance as I come out of quarantine.
I look forward to walking this way of Holy Week with you. I pray that we will know the power of the resurrection in our lives and in our world.
Peace,
Fr. John Mark
OUR TRADITION . . .
A new national study, Jesus in America, was released in early March in a partnership between The Episcopal Church and Ipsos. The research found that while the majority of Americans polled believe Jesus was an important spiritual figure and want equality in society, it also showed Christians are not necessarily practicing what Jesus taught, and Americans feel judged when talking about their beliefs. The study also found that the global pandemic has negatively impacted participation in organized religion — or religious activity — and more people are finding spiritual fulfillment in nature. In addition, while the church has been a place of community and non-judgment, some Americans feel churches that discuss racism and slavery are acting with the wrong intentions.
Research data showed:
The majority of Americans (84%) believe Jesus is an important spiritual figure and want their children to grow up in a world where everyone is treated equally (86%).
Christians describe themselves as being giving (57%), compassionate (56%), loving (55%), respectful (50%) and friendly (49%), while non-Christians associate Christians with characteristics like hypocrisy (50%), being judgmental (49%), self-righteousness (46%), and arrogance (32%).
The COVID-19 pandemic has decreased participation in organized religion or religious activities for about 3 in 10 Americans (31%).
Younger Americans are more likely to say they are not religious (Gen Z 24% and Millennials 28%) than their older counterparts (Gen X 18% and Baby Boomers 12%).
Contrary to popular narrative, only 1 in 10 (11%) Americans believe that the events at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, were associated with organized religion. A majority, 63% of Americans, do not think the events are associated with religion, and 25% don’t know/refused.
A SIGN - Do you know anything about this sign located several blocks down the street on Broadway? It is an Episcopal welcoming sign pointing the way to St. James. Click the image for a closer inspection. If you know anything about when the sign was placed, or any other signs directing folks to St. James, please let us know. Send the information to kevin@stjamesknox.org.
THE PRESENT . . .
FORWARD MOVEMENT -Psalm 116:12 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of his people.
I have taken three vows in my life thus far: wedding vows and two ordination vows (deacon and priest). I regret to say that after 25 years I could no longer honor my marriage vows: I had to choose my own safety and well-being. My vows as an ordained minister have likewise not always been easy; after being treated terribly by a parish, I was so disillusioned that I told my bishop I wanted to renounce my vows. Thankfully, he would not accept my decision without a “cooling-off period,” after which I realized I had mistaken the (fallible) church as institution for God. That’s embarrassing to admit as a priest, but I am human.
Jesus gave us the commandment to love one another, but there are times when I have failed to live up to this mandate—and times when I’ve experienced others’ failure as well. Even when we are not able to love one another, God loves us and gives us an example of humility. Honoring vows takes love—and humility. Source Forward Day by Day
ALTAR FLOWERS - It is a St. James tradition to place flowers or greenery on the altar in honor of, or in thanksgiving for, loved ones. Altar flowers are needed for Apr 30, Jun 11, & Jun 18. Please contact Linda Goins for information lgoins@stjamesknox.org or 865-523-5687.
BEING PRESENT - In person attendance at St. James Sunday morning worship services have averaged 124 persons since January 1, 2023. Church is a community where we can socialize and support one another, make friends, feel a sense of belonging, and build reliable support networks. The church community helps us to “mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort” (Mosiah 18:9).
ST. JAMES FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE - Last month, nearly 30 St. James family members met at Central Collective (935 N. Central) for our March Friendship Circle Dinner to hear about managing our financial resources and updates the progress that has been made pertaining to our renovations. Guest speakers included Bob Williams - our St. James financial advisor, and Mark Jendrek - a solo practitioner with an emphasis on real estate and other transactional matters. During their presentation and Q&A sessions, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the flavors and textures of a delicious meal provided by Tarik's North African. Our next Friendship Circle Dinner will be held in and around the courtyard at St. James on Monday May 1 @ 6 pm. Mark it on your calendar and keep watching for details.
BURRITOS FOR JUSTICE - On Tuesday April 25th from 5:45 pm - 6:15 pm St. James will be providing "drive-through" service in our parking lot! We will be serving delicious homemade chili (mild) & cheese hot dog burritos and cold beverages to the first 100 people who are on their way to the Justice Knox Nehemiah Action Assembly which will be held at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium & Coliseum. Everyone is expected to be seated in the coliseum by 6:40 pm, so serving will end promptly at 6:15 pm. Burritos will be limited to one per person in each vehicle so be sure to arrive early! For more information about the Nehemiah Action Assembly, please open the 2-page flyer at THIS LINK describing what will take place and/or contact Margaret Bickley or Fr. John Mark.
KUDOS TO THE CREW - St. James appreciates the planning, hard work, and coordination being performed by Rick Blackburn, Wayne Wilson and the entire crew during our renovations, including: DEMOLITION - Greg & Kenneth; ELECTRICAL - Robby, Paul, Mark, B.J., Charlie, Ben, Mike & Jacob; PLUMBING - Kevin, Lenny & Tylor; HVAC - Jeff, Gary, Zack, Derek, Gregg & Bryson; MASONRY - Matt, Vitality & Afanasiy; PAINTING - Randy & Dylan; FLOORING - Victor, Christian & Gary; DRYWALL & CEILING - Greg, James, & Huey.
PALM SUNDAY PARADE - Click the IMAGE BELOW to view a 90-second video segment of the blessing of palms and neighborhood parade last Sunday.
HOLY WEEK SERVICES - From early times Christians have observed the week before Easter as a time of special devotion. As the pilgrim Egeria recorded in the late fourth century, Jerusalem contained many sacred places that were sites for devotion and liturgy. Numerous pilgrims to the holy city followed the path of Jesus in his last days. They formed processions, worshipped where Christ suffered and died, and venerated relics. From this beginning evolved the rites we observe today on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. These services provide a liturgical experience of the last days of Jesus' earthly life, as well as the time and events leading up to his resurrection. Here is the schedule of Holy Week services at St. James:
THU Apr 6 @ 7 pm - Maundy Thursday Liturgy (Nave)
FRI Apr 7 @ 12 pm - Good Friday Liturgy (Nave)
FRI Apr 7 @ 1 pm - Stations of the Cross (Nave)
FRI Apr 7 @ 3 pm - Stations of the Cross (Neighborhood Walk)
FRI Apr 7 @ 7 pm - Good Friday Liturgy (Nave)
SAT Apr 8 @ 10 am Holy Saturday Liturgy (Chapel)
SUN Apr 9 @ 7 am - Easter Community Sunrise Service (Knoxville Botanical Garden)
SUN Apr 9 @ 10:30 am - Easter Sunday Holy Eucharist (Nave)
LOCAL NEEDS -Compassion Coalition, of which St. James is an active member, is transforming our city. It represents the body of Christ working together in unity to serve the greatest needs. These local needs have been identified by Compassion Coalition . . .
A low-income woman struggling to make ends meet and is unable to get to and from work via the bus. She needs an Uber or Lyft gift card to assist her with transportation. If you can help contact Shelby.Harris@HealthConnectAmerica.com. A woman who owns her home needs help with pest control. She has rodents in her home and traps and poison have not been effective. If anyone can help with professional pest removal please contact anne.singleton@cherokeehealth.com.
FOOTBALL (CONCESSIONS) TIME IN TENNESSEE - Last year, the St. James Centennial Centipedes raised over $3,700 by operating a concessions stand in Neyland Stadium during the 7 home UT football games. The money raised through sales commissions and tips was split between our general fund and the Centennial fund. Now that we have our "legs" under us, we hope to earn even more during this year's home games that will feature visits from Austin Peay (Sep 9), Texas - San Antonio (Sep 23), South Carolina (Sep 30), Texas A&M (Oct 14), UCONN (Nov 4), Georgia (Nov 18), and Vanderbilt (Nov 25). Contact Coach Mark AbellMabell3368@sbcglobal.net if you would like to find out more about what fun it is to be a member of the St. James Centennial Centipedes team and possibly become one of our newest recrUiTs!
VMC MEAL SERVING TEAM - Diane and Charles Livermore have been mainstays of the St. James Volunteer Ministry Center (VMC) meal serving team, but they will not be available ongoing as they are moving next month to Georgia to be close to their son and his family. It is wonderful for them but it means that our regular fourth Thursday VMC meal serving team is now down to just 2 or 3 people. Susan Partridge and Carlene Loop faithfully bring wonderful desserts but are not available to regularly help serve. We are currently seeking volunteers to join our team. Please pass the word to anyone you believe might be interested in helping. It usually amounts to 1 - 1.5 hours of work and is very rewarding! Contact Nancy Pullen nepullen@gmail.com for additional information.
The Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee is committed to protecting each child of God. Sexual misconduct on the part of any clergy person, employee or volunteer of any congregation, school, or diocesan affiliated organization violates the mission of the Church, is prohibited and will not be tolerated. The Safe Church, Safe Communities courses teach how exploitation and harassment occur, the awareness we need to prevent such occurrences, and how to respond, should an incident of exploitation or harassment occur. Anyone in the congregation is encouraged to complete Safe Church, Safe Communities training, but persons in certain leadership roles are requiredto complete certain modules of the training. To view the list of persons required to complete the training, click THIS LINK. In the weeks to come, information about how to register and participate in the online training will be provided. If you want to get a head start, review the FAQ's at dioet.org./safe-church/ or contact kevin@stjamesknox.org.
REVELATION - NOT WHAT YOU THINK - Beginning Wednesday, May 3, Marie Cantrell will present a 6 week in-person class on the Book of Revelation. The class will meet at St. James each Wednesday morning from 10 am - 11:15 am. Kevin Jeske-Polyak, who recently participated in the class, reports, "This series really delivers as promised! After this class, you will have learned how to read the book in its proper context without coming away thinking it is all about gloom and doom! Marie helps us discover how it is actually about hope in the face of suffering." At least six registrants will be required for the class to meet. Register now by sending an email to mariewcantrell@gmail.com.
ECW EVENT CALENDAR – The Episcopal Church Women Ministry, (ECW), enjoys hands-on involvement in church life. We celebrate the children of St James and enjoy sponsoring parish-wide opportunities including the Rummage Sale, and events like the September picnic. In 2022 we hosted the Easter breakfast for the choir and others serving during the services plus the Easter hospitality time after church. The ECW lets our folks in the military know we are praying for and thinking about them by sending cards throughout the year and small gifts at Christmas. Here is the planned 2023 ECW schedule as of our February Meeting:
Regular Meetings - the third Saturday of every month at 10 am
Easter Continental Breakfast & expanded Coffee Hour – April 9
Tyson House Meals - TBD
UTO Spring Offering - Mother’s Day – May 14
Doorstep – Helping Hands Lunch - TBD (chili lunch in the fall?)
“No Fund Raiser Fund Raiser” – TBD (likely mid-summer)
Centennial Celebration/Luncheon – September 24
Rummage Sale – October 21
Trunk or Treat - Sunday, October 29
UTO Fall Offering – November 19
Marketplace/Bake Sale – November 12 or December 3
QUILT "SIGNEES" - Below are the names that will be included on the Centennial Quilt so far. Don't miss your opportunity to be included by signing a "square"! For your convenience, in addition to Sunday mornings, quilt pieces are also available to sign in the church office, Mon -Thu, 10 am - 3 pm. If you would like a piece sent to you to sign, please contact Bea Emory. We want EVERYONE to sign the quilt!
(224+ Names) Mark & Susan Abell, Barbara Andrew, Mike & Elizabeth Armstrong, Norma Armstrong, Brian & Sandra Austin, Susan Bain, Gail Barnhill, Marty Begalla, Margaret Bickley & SuAnne Cobb, , Betty Bowling, Rick & Lyn Brown, Rick Brown Jr (in memory), Jim & Gayle Brrowne, Troy Burns, Michelle, Gage, Savanna, Makayla, Landen, Colt, Easten, Willow & River Byrd, Doug Caleb, Mark, Emily, Parson & Phoebe Campen, Hoyt & Marilyn Canady, Marie Cantrell, Bob & Helen Cargile, Amy Chapman (in memory), Linda Chapman, Harry & Patty Chase, Scott Childs, Jane Wolkiel Clift, Robert Clift, Sr (in memory), Michael Clift, Robert Clift Jr, Jeff, Nancy, & Erzhan Cocharan, Bill Collins & Angie Livesay, Gregg & Caroline Combs-Young, Bill Combs, Ginny Combs, David Connolly, Jennifer Connolly, Bradley Cox, Thomas & Rebecca Cox, Lee Creech, Katharine Criss, Linda Denton, Linda & Duane Dunlap, Benjamin D. Dunning, Catherine D. Dunning, Emily Dunning, Sue Dyson, Suzanne Farkas, Linda Fitzpatrick, Pamela Clift Flynn, Terri & Donna Foster-Akken, Lou Ann Gaby, Mike & Susie Gardner, Craig & Joseph Gardner, Bill Gervin, Susan Dunlap Gill, Charles Goan, Linda Goins, Liz, Christopher, Ryan & Emily Golliher, Cladio A. Gonzales, Margaret Goodman, Joe Gouffon, Linda Grandstrom, Alan Grandstrom, Stacy Hall, Patricia Hammer, Al, Helen & Wadad Harb, Drew Harper, Anne Haselton-Rowe, Victoria & Brice Hawkins, Barbara Hickey, Judy Householder, Reggie Hulsey, Junior Humphrey, Lamar, Tobertha & Wiatta Thomas Jackson, Karen Lloyd & Drew Steen, Kevin & Drew Jeske-Polyak, Pat & Patti Jeske, Claramae Johnson, Kyla Keck & Ashley Burell, John & Merilee Kerwin, Sheila & Donn Kurtz, Frank & Martha Laszlo, Diane Livermore, Carla Livesey, Stephanie Manning & Hilton Smith, Martin Family, Fasia Massaquoi, Fritz Massaquoi (in memory), Douglas McCaleb, Carol McDaniel, Mary McGavock & Damon Beard, Catherine "Kitty" McNamara, Mary McNamara, Ed & Evelyn Miller, Nancy Minge, Rod & Mary Moore, James Moore, Molly Moore & Tony Teasley, Pam Morris & Renee Smith, Mary Muir, Phyllis Muth, Tony Nease, Miriam Nelson, Audry Nitz, Mary Nelle Osborne, Elizabeth Partridge & Eric Dyer, Susan & Powell Partridge, Mary, Nick & Madeleine Passmore, Ida Mae Patteson, Robin & Dave Penegar, Steven & Betsy Pierce, John & Susan Pollock, Linda Pope, RJ Powell, David Pruess & Nancy Pullen, Emily Canady & Britt Ratliff, T & Jase Ratliff, Mark Reddaway, Danny Reynolds & Marvin Rominez, Jill & Rayna Richardson, James Rowland & John Sexton, Ana Salazar & Austin Patterson, Gerald Segroves, Mary Segroves, Richard Sidey, Nick Simson & Eleanor Aldridge & Oona Simson, Aubrie Starks, Andrew Starks, Lesley Starks, Mary Jon Steen, Pam Strickland, Jeannie Sullivan, Phillip Szuromi, Cindy Taylor, Maevis Teasley & Zadie & friend, Scott Teets (in memory), Sharon Teets, Cynthia Thornburg, Geoffrey Trowbridge, Janet Van Der Dussen, Bob Wadley, Ray & (Norma) Jean Weeden, Laura Wheat, Carolyn Wheeler, Jimmy Wheeler, Tim Wiegenstein, John Mark Wiggers, Richard Wilson, Butch & Carol Yates, Bill and Kim Yearman, and Elizabeth Campbell Young.
COFFEE HOUR IN THE NAVE - Amidst the construction activity currently taking place in the parish hall and the kitchen, Coffee Hour continues at St. James in the NAVE following our regular 10:30 am Sunday morning worship services. If you would like to lend a hand as a host, there will be a sign up sheet available during each coffee hour event. Duties are minimal and include setting things up, preparing coffee and light cleanup activities afterwards. To sign up to help, please contact Carol Yates at cyates0222@gmail.com.
OUR FUTURE . . .
CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS - The walls have been painted and new floor tiles have been installed in the expanded kitchen space. New ceiling tiles and brighter energy-efficient LED light fixtures have been installed in the parish hall. Replacement of the room-sized HVAC units in the offices and classrooms in the parish house has been completed and new wood flooring has been installed in the hallway at the conference room end of the parish house. Work has begun on preparing space for the installation of an elevator to the second floor. Interior renovations in both the kitchen and parish house are expected to be completed by Memorial Day, (May 29). A curb has been installed for the new herb garden that will be created outside the kitchen. Meanwhile, the wall in the memorial garden has been modified to double the capacity of our columbarium. Intensive renovations in the nave will take place during the months of June through August to meet our goal of project completion by September 24, 2023. Click the images below for a closer inspection of some of the renovations currently underway and please make your donation to the Centennial Capital Campaign to help us prepare our facilities for the next 100 years!
LIFE INSURANCE GIFTS - Life insurance policies allow for substantial donations to charities in the future by making a series of smaller donations now. One way to give using life insurance is to purchase a new policy and name St. James Episcopal Church as the irrevocable owner and beneficiary. You may then make annual contributions in the amount of the annual insurance premium payments. These contributions are generally income tax deductible. Upon your death, St. James will receive the life insurance death benefit. Another way to give is to change the beneficiary of an existing policy to St. James. You retain complete control over the policy during your lifetime but premium payments are not tax deductible.
Advantages:
You can donate through a newly created life insurance policy or making changes to an existing one.
A gift of life insurance does not remove estate assets from other heirs.
Charitable gift dollars are leveraged because insurance proceeds received by St. James after death are often substantially greater than the funds paid during your life in premium payments.
Should you need additional help, Robert Williams is the financial advisor for the St. James Endowment and Centennial Campaign Funds. If you want to include St. James in your planning, please be sure to make The Rev. John Mark Wiggers aware of your intent.
This information is not considered tax advice. Please consult your tax-advisor for specifics.
OUR CATHEDRAL CHAIRS - Excitement about our new cathedral chairs is building as demonstrated by the increasing number of people who are becoming chair "sponsors". Currently being built in Beatrice, Nebraska by skilled craftsmen who specialize in building custom church furniture, our chairs will be constructed of the finest Northern grown solid red oak. When aligned in rows and joined together with ganging clamps, they will have the look and feel of pew seating but they will be more comfortable and allow for greater seating flexibility. Each of our chairs will include a cushioned seat, front and rear bookracks, and a sturdy kneeler. Family, friends, and organizations are invited to "sponsor" individual cathedral chairs by making a $500 cash contribution to St. James Episcopal Church specifically designated for this purpose. In exchange for your cash contribution, the backside of each chair you sponsor will be fitted with an engraved brass plate, (approximately 5" W x 2.5" H), commemorating your gift. The engraved message may recognize a family member or anyone else of your choosing. Access a Cathedral Chair Sponsorship Form at THIS LINK. If you have additional questions about sponsoring one or more cathedral chairs, please contact kevin@stjamesknox.org or jwiggers@stjamesknox.org.
INVEST IN ST. JAMES - To date, we have secured $637,208 in gifts to our Centennial Capital Campaign - 31.9% of our $2 million fundraising goal.
That's a great start, but we need to raise much more to do what must be done to upgrade our facilities. Renovations in the kitchen, parish hall, and administrative wing are in full swing! So, if you have been prayerfully thinking about making a pledge, now would be a great time to help us keep up with the expenses we are incurring and accelerate the progress toward reaching our goal. Please join the folks listed below who have already pledged and/or made cash contributions to the campaign. Obtain a downloadable Capital Campaign Pledge Form by clicking THIS LINK.
THANK YOU . . . Mark & Susan Abell, Aramark Hospitality Company, Mike & Elizabeth Armstrong, Asset Realty Management, Brian & Sandra Austin, Caroline Ballinger, Rick Bearden, Marty Begalla, Blackburn Development Group, Betty Bowling, Rick & Lynda Brown, Bessie Burell, Ashley Burell & Kyla Keck, Troy Burns, Chester & Francie Butler, Hoyt & Marilyn Canady, Marie Cantrell, Paul Cate, Harry & Patty Chase, Scott Childs, Jane Clift, SuAnne Cobb & Margaret Bickley, Brian Cole, Bill & Ginny Combs, Thomas & Rebecca Cox, Lee Creech & Beth Meyer, Katharine Criss, Janet Dees, Linda Denton, Theresa DeRosa, Boyce & Susan Driskell, Duane & Linda Dunlap, Bea Emory, Episcopal Church Women, Financial Marketplace, Inc., Linda Fitzpatrick, Linda Goins, Liz & Christopher Golliher, Margaret Goodman, Joseph Gouffon, Susan Gray, Stacy Hall, Patricia Hammer, Drew Harper, Victoria Hawkins & Bryce Giesler, Barbara Hickey & David Linge, Judy Householder & Lou Ann Gaby, Mary Ireland, Kevin & Drew Jeske-Polyak, John & Merilee Kerwin, Sheila C & Donn Kurtz, Charles & Diane Livermore, Carlene Loop & Lew Walton, Charles & Frieda Marsh, Carol McDaniel, Mary McGavock & Damon Beard, Ed & Evelyn Miller, Rodney & Mary Moore, Pam Morris & Renee Smith, Sarah & Todd Moss, Mary Muir, Phyllis Muth, Timothy & Jessie Nichols, Audrey Nitz, Mary Nelle Osborne, Powell & Susan Partridge, Steven Pierce, LouAnn Robinson, Jim Rowland, Gerald Segroves, Kenneth & Kathleen Sherfick, Drew Steen & Karen Lloyd, Jennie Sullivan, Sharon Teets, Gay Thompson, Cynthia Thornburg & Tom Dunne, Jimmie & Carolyn Wheeler, John Mark & Liz Wiggers, Dean Wiggers, Butch & Carol Yates, Bill & Kim Yearman, and Elizabeth Young, Jeffrey & Alice Zaher.
OUR CENTENNIAL PRAYER
Lord Christ, the shepherd of the sheep, we give thanks for those
who have built up the work of St. James over the past 100 years.
Give us grace to continue in their faithfulness
by doing justice and mercy in this community.
Grant us generous hearts to support and build the resources
that will strengthen and continue our work of feeding and tending your sheep.
May we do all these things to your glory, you who reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
SUN: Sunday Morning Christian Formation. (Conf Room A). 9:15 am - 10:15. Join Fr. John Mark April 16-30 at 9:15 am on Sundays. We will be discussing resurrection and what that means for us right now.
SUN: Youth Ministry Class. Every Sunday at 10:45 am. Classes are open to all youth ages 5-13. The Third Sunday of every month will be a craft class. Please come join the wonderful group of teachers and enjoy learning new and exciting information. Contact: Theresa Russell for additional information.
MON: Centering Prayer. (Zoom 1st & 3rd Monday, Zoom or Library, on 2nd & 4th Monday). 6 pm - 7 pm. Studying Sacred Earth Sacred Soul by John Phillip Newell. Zoom Link Meeting ID: 813 3584 8679 | Pray.
TUE: Tuesday Morning Discussion Group. (Zoom). 11 am - noon. Exploring current events in the light of our faith. Interested individuals are invited to join us via Zoom. Meeting ID 816 8271 5668 and Passcode 481655. Contact: Margaret Bickley, or call 865-384-7422 for assistance.
TUE: The Soul of the Indian. (Zoom). 6 pm - 7 pm. "Black Elk Speaks" by John G. Neihardt. The story of Black Elk, an Oglala Lakota medicine man. Contact: Ron Morton for the link.
THU: Thursday Study Group. (Conf Room A). 10:00 am - 11:15 am. We will continue with our study and discussion of the scriptures for upcoming Sunday services through the Day of Pentecost (which is the last Sunday in May this year). No advance preparation is required - come and join a lively discussion and usually lunch at a local restaurant afterwards. Contact Nancy Pullen with any questions at 415-722-0139 or nepullen@gmail.com. THU: Praying the Anglican Rosary. (Zoom). 7 pm - 8 pm. One hour of praying the anglican rosary. All are welcome! Meeting ID: 836 8961 2206 | rosary Contact Cynthia Thornburg or Margaret Bickley.
We apologize for any errors or omissions that may have occurred in this publication at press time.
For questions related to any content, please contact referenced ministry leaders or email: kevin@stjamesknox.org.
St. James Episcopal Church 1101 N. Broadway St. Knoxville, TN 37917
Dear Friends,
A new national study, Jesus in America, was released in early March in a partnership between The Episcopal Church and Ipsos. The research found that while the majority of Americans polled believe Jesus was an important spiritual figure and want equality in society, it also showed Christians are not necessarily practicing what Jesus taught, and Americans feel judged when talking about their beliefs. The study also found that the global pandemic has negatively impacted participation in organized religion — or religious activity — and more people are finding spiritual fulfillment in nature. In addition, while the church has been a place of community and non-judgment, some Americans feel churches that discuss racism and slavery are acting with the wrong intentions.
FORWARD MOVEMENT - Psalm 116:12 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of his people.
ALTAR FLOWERS - It is a St. James tradition to place flowers or greenery on the altar in honor of, or in thanksgiving for, loved ones. Altar flowers are needed for Apr 30, Jun 11, & Jun 18. Please contact Linda Goins for information 
BEING PRESENT - In person attendance at St. James Sunday morning worship services have averaged 124 persons since January 1, 2023. Church is a community where we can socialize and support one another, make friends, feel a sense of belonging, and build reliable support networks. The church community helps us to “mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort” (Mosiah 18:9).
BURRITOS FOR JUSTICE - On Tuesday April 25th from 5:45 pm - 6:15 pm St. James will be providing "drive-through" service in our parking lot! We will be serving delicious homemade chili (mild) & cheese hot dog burritos and cold beverages to the first 100 people who are on their way to the Justice Knox Nehemiah Action Assembly which will be held at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium & Coliseum. Everyone is expected to be seated in the coliseum by 6:40 pm, so serving will end promptly at 6:15 pm. Burritos will be limited to one per person in each vehicle so be sure to arrive early! For more information about the Nehemiah Action Assembly, please open the 2-page flyer at 
KUDOS TO THE CREW - St. James appreciates the planning, hard work, and coordination being performed by Rick Blackburn, Wayne Wilson and the entire crew during our renovations, including: DEMOLITION - Greg & Kenneth; ELECTRICAL - Robby, Paul, Mark, B.J., Charlie, Ben, Mike & Jacob; PLUMBING - Kevin, Lenny & Tylor; HVAC - Jeff, Gary, Zack, Derek, Gregg & Bryson; MASONRY - Matt, Vitality & Afanasiy; PAINTING - Randy & Dylan; FLOORING - Victor, Christian & Gary; DRYWALL & CEILING - Greg, James, & Huey.
HOLY WEEK SERVICES - From early times Christians have observed the week before Easter as a time of special devotion. As the pilgrim Egeria recorded in the late fourth century, Jerusalem contained many sacred places that were sites for devotion and liturgy. Numerous pilgrims to the holy city followed the path of Jesus in his last days. They formed processions, worshipped where Christ suffered and died, and venerated relics. From this beginning evolved the rites we observe today on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. These services provide a liturgical experience of the last days of Jesus' earthly life, as well as the time and events leading up to his resurrection. Here is the schedule of Holy Week services at St. James:
LOCAL NEEDS - 
FOOTBALL (CONCESSIONS) TIME IN TENNESSEE - Last year, the St. James Centennial Centipedes raised over $3,700 by operating a concessions stand in Neyland Stadium during the 7 home UT football games. The money raised through sales commissions and tips was split between our general fund and the Centennial fund. Now that we have our "legs" under us, we hope to earn even more during this year's home games that will feature visits from Austin Peay (Sep 9), Texas - San Antonio (Sep 23), South Carolina (Sep 30), Texas A&M (Oct 14), UCONN (Nov 4), Georgia (Nov 18), and Vanderbilt (Nov 25). Contact Coach Mark Abell 
VMC MEAL SERVING TEAM - Diane and Charles Livermore have been mainstays of the St. James Volunteer Ministry Center (VMC) meal serving team, but they will not be available ongoing as they are moving next month to Georgia to be close to their son and his family. It is wonderful for them but it means that our regular fourth Thursday VMC meal serving team is now down to just 2 or 3 people. Susan Partridge and Carlene Loop faithfully bring wonderful desserts but are not available to regularly help serve. We are currently seeking volunteers to join our team. Please pass the word to anyone you believe might be interested in helping. It usually amounts to 1 - 1.5 hours of work and is very rewarding! Contact Nancy Pullen 
The Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee is committed to protecting each child of God. Sexual misconduct on the part of any clergy person, employee or volunteer of any congregation, school, or diocesan affiliated organization violates the mission of the Church, is prohibited and will not be tolerated. The Safe Church, Safe Communities courses teach how exploitation and harassment occur, the awareness we need to prevent such occurrences, and how to respond, should an incident of exploitation or harassment occur. Anyone in the congregation is encouraged to complete Safe Church, Safe Communities training, but persons in certain leadership roles are required to complete certain modules of the training. To view the list of persons required to complete the training, click 
REVELATION - NOT WHAT YOU THINK - Beginning Wednesday, May 3, Marie Cantrell will present a 6 week in-person class on the Book of Revelation. The class will meet at St. James each Wednesday morning from 10 am - 11:15 am. Kevin Jeske-Polyak, who recently participated in the class, reports, "This series really delivers as promised! After this class, you will have learned how to read the book in its proper context without coming away thinking it is all about gloom and doom! Marie helps us discover how it is actually about hope in the face of suffering." At least six registrants will be required for the class to meet. Register now by sending an email to 
ECW EVENT CALENDAR – The Episcopal Church Women Ministry, (ECW), enjoys hands-on involvement in church life. We celebrate the children of St James and enjoy sponsoring parish-wide opportunities including the Rummage Sale, and events like the September picnic. In 2022 we hosted the Easter breakfast for the choir and others serving during the services plus the Easter hospitality time after church. The ECW lets our folks in the military know we are praying for and thinking about them by sending cards throughout the year and small gifts at Christmas. Here is the planned 2023 ECW schedule as of our February Meeting:
QUILT "SIGNEES" - Below are the names that will be included on the Centennial Quilt so far. Don't miss your opportunity to be included by signing a "square"! For your convenience, in addition to Sunday mornings, quilt pieces are also available to sign in the church office, Mon -Thu, 10 am - 3 pm. If you would like a piece sent to you to sign, please contact Bea Emory. We want EVERYONE to sign the quilt!
COFFEE HOUR IN THE NAVE - Amidst the construction activity currently taking place in the parish hall and the kitchen, Coffee Hour continues at St. James in the NAVE following our regular 10:30 am Sunday morning worship services. If you would like to lend a hand as a host, there will be a sign up sheet available during each coffee hour event. Duties are minimal and include setting things up, preparing coffee and light cleanup activities afterwards. To sign up to help, please contact Carol Yates at 
CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS - The walls have been painted and new floor tiles have been installed in the expanded kitchen space. New ceiling tiles and brighter energy-efficient LED light fixtures have been installed in the parish hall. Replacement of the room-sized HVAC units in the offices and classrooms in the parish house has been completed and new wood flooring has been installed in the hallway at the conference room end of the parish house. Work has begun on preparing space for the installation of an elevator to the second floor. Interior renovations in both the kitchen and parish house are expected to be completed by Memorial Day, (May 29). A curb has been installed for the new herb garden that will be created outside the kitchen. Meanwhile, the wall in the memorial garden has been modified to double the capacity of our columbarium. Intensive renovations in the nave will take place during the months of June through August to meet our goal of project completion by September 24, 2023. Click the images below for a closer inspection of some of the renovations currently underway and please make your donation to the Centennial Capital Campaign to help us prepare our facilities for the next 100 years! 
LIFE INSURANCE GIFTS - Life insurance policies allow for substantial donations to charities in the future by making a series of smaller donations now. One way to give using life insurance is to purchase a new policy and name St. James Episcopal Church as the irrevocable owner and beneficiary. You may then make annual contributions in the amount of the annual insurance premium payments. These contributions are generally income tax deductible. Upon your death, St. James will receive the life insurance death benefit. Another way to give is to change the beneficiary of an existing policy to St. James. You retain complete control over the policy during your lifetime but premium payments are not tax deductible.
OUR CATHEDRAL CHAIRS - Excitement about our new cathedral chairs is building as demonstrated by the increasing number of people who are becoming chair "sponsors". Currently being built in Beatrice, Nebraska by skilled craftsmen who specialize in building custom church furniture, our chairs will be constructed of the finest Northern grown solid red oak. When aligned in rows and joined together with ganging clamps, they will have the look and feel of pew seating but they will be more comfortable and allow for greater seating flexibility. Each of our chairs will include a cushioned seat, front and rear bookracks, and a sturdy kneeler. 
INVEST IN ST. JAMES - To date, we have secured $637,208 in gifts to our Centennial Capital Campaign - 31.9% of our $2 million fundraising goal. 
