Thank goodness for Saint Joseph

Today is the day on the church calendar in which we remember Saint Joseph. Inerestingly enough, he is mentioned very little in the Bible. Here is one of those instances:

Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day's journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety." He said to them, "Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" But they did not understand what he said to them. Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor. - Luke 2:41-52

Does God Love Me??

Remember the song "Jesus loves me this I know"? It is a Sunday school favorite. The question though might be how do I know?

The Bible says that "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

The Bible also says that we are all sinners. I know that I have done bad things. I know that I am not perfect. Still my mom always loves me - despite any bad that might be there. Is this the same kind of thing with God?

Spend a few moments today thinking about God's love.

Cartoon Church

Okay so this may seem like an odd entry. I'm going to tell you about another website. It's Dave Walker's website. Dave writes and draws for the Church Times and was the 'Cartoonist in Residence" for the 2008 Lambeth Conference. There are cute drawings like the one to the left. Sound interesting? Well even if you say no, I hope you will check it out. Go to http://cartoonchurch.com and let the fun begin!

You may recall that I have told you about other websites before. The Grace Before Meals site is my favorite. There is also the listserve that I set up for lgbt Anglicans. This one is different though.

By the way, this is just something I stumbled across. I do not know Dave and have no financial stake in his website. So go already! It really is a fun place!

Back to work!

For nine days I have not been at work! WOO HOO! (Yeah I know I didn't do anything exciting, but a rest can still be fun). Anyway, today is back to work day. Here I am up and ready to hit the shower and not at all in the mood to go to work.

Yesterday at church was nice. The whole past week has been nice. But now the long coffee break is over!

UGH!

The Prodigal Son

As you may recall, I went for mass last Saturday night for the Society of Saint Francis. There was great joy and I spoke of that, particularly in the music. I went again last night and it was again very joyous, but there was a different joy earlier in the day.

Yesterday I was invloved in many church events, including a wonderful presentation on ministry to the homeless, and a splendid organ recital. I began however with a eucharist. In the Episcopal Church, we are relatively quiet in church, which sometimes dismays me. Yesterday's gospel was the parable of The Prodigal Son.

Now for those of you who don't know, the Prodigal Son, also known as the Lost Son, is one of the best known parables of Jesus. It appears only in Saint Luke's Gospel, It is the third and final member of a trilogy, following the Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Parable of the Lost Coin. It is a wonderful story of a son who was lost, but who comes back into the family fold. Hearing it yesterday morning I wanted to scream out with a loud Amen or even the other "A" word (but we don't say that in Lent).

Why don't we show more joy in church? Jesus is so wonderful we should be shouting from the rooftops!

Some more questions

Thinking back to the quiz I gave you this week and the comments I received, I was thinking about doing it more often. What kind of questions might I ask? What would really challenge your knowledge of Scripture? Give me some of your ideas.

For example, how many know which three disciples went with Jesus to the mount of the transfiguration? Who appeared to them at the mount?

Jesus quoted the following words: "The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?" What book was he quoting? Any idea? How many of you know the meaning of the word Golgotha? It isn't quite as easy if it isn't multiple choice, is it?

Of course knowing all the answers, does not mean you know Jesus. How many of you truly know Jesus?

A bit of houskeeping

Today I do a bit of housekeeping. So many little things to write about! The quiz results from Wednesday are here today (at the bottom) as promised.

Last Sunday I wrote about music and got a rare comment: "I love it when people's singing reflects the nature of what they're singing. Amazing Grace has EXCLAMATION POINTS if you sing it like it's real! Same with the other songs in church - it's crazy to me when people sing songs about salvation and redemption and restoration and joy... but sound like they're mourning. Don't get me wrong, I love some reverence, too. But I think the folk services you were referring to must've been pretty cool. :)"

Dear reader, I do so agree! In fact (and I added this to the reader's comment) Scripture says "make a joyful noise," yet sometimes as you say, we seem to be in mourning. As I wrote on both Sunday and Monday, music can really touch you - it did me. And yes folks, it is okay to be joyful in church!

Yesterday I went to Grace Cathedral for Evensong - talk about beautiful music! WOW!

A friend of mine just started a new blog, The Silence of the Word. Check it out!

Now those quiz results, and if you like the quiz, share it with a friend!


answers to the 14 questions
1. the rocks
2. Jesus wept bitterly
3. a rooster would crow twice
4. Caiaphas
5. Caesar
6. Blasphemy
7. Barabbas
8. Simon the Cyrenian
9. Golgotha
10. the moon turned red
11. Joseph of Arimathea
12. His disciples stole the body at night
13. Mary Magdalene
14. Thomas

Things don’t always go the way you might wish

I tried to get back into something where my voice is utilized. (I was once in broadcasting and also did a lot of voice-over work). In my latest attempt, someone else was chosen over me. Things don’t always go the way you might wish.

I had thought that I might find someone I know who had a spare minute or two and we could have lunch together or even breakfast. (Being on vacation, I can do those things this week, whereas I normally cannot). I had though about how lovely it would be to get together with an old friend who I seldom get to see. I had thought about how nice it would be to go to a museum or a movie or shopping or anywhere with someone else during the day, when I am normally in work. Things don’t always go the way you might wish.

About a week ago I finished work and walked to a little place in Hayes Valley for a delicious plate of chicken in a special dish, available only there. Somehow signals got crossed because when I got there, my reserved plate had vanished and there was no food left! Things don’t always go the way you might wish.

Yes, it is quite true that things don't always go the way we might wish - the Prop 8 vote last November is another example, but that doesn't mean there is nothing we can do. We need to speak up sometimes. We need to pray. We need to never give up ourselves or allow ourselves to be too disappointed. Life goes on and it is a good life, even when things don’t always go the way you might wish.

Lenten Quiz

Here is a break from my rantings (I'm on vacation, so I figured you could all use a little vacation too)! Today I give you a quiz - fourteen questions that deal with the time just ahead of us: Holy Week and Easter.


1. As Jesus rode into Jerusalem (on Palm Sunday), what did He say would
cry out if His disciples didn't? (Luke 19:40)
the rocks
the angels
the earth
the animals

2. Which of these things did NOT happen at the Lord's Supper?
The disciples sang a hymn
Jesus washed the disciple's feet
Judas left to betray Jesus
Jesus wept bitterly

3. What was the sign that Jesus gave Peter in stating that he would deny Him? (Mark 14:30)
the sun would rise
a rooster would crow twice
someone would build a fire
darkness would cover the land

4. Who was the chief priest who had Jesus arrested? (John 18:28)
Caiaphas
Ananias
Pilate
Zechariah

5. Which of these people did NOT question Jesus after he was arrested? (Matthew 26:57, Luke 23: 1, 7)
Caiaphas
Pilate
Herod
Caesar

6. On what charge did the court sentence Jesus to death? (John 19:7)
Murder
Blasphemy
False witness
Identity theft

7. What was the name of the prisoner the people wanted released instead of Jesus? (Matthew 27:15)
Caiaphas
Barnabas
Barabbas
Lee Harvey Oswald

8. Who was told to carry Jesus' cross for him? (Matthew 27:32)
Caiaphas
Joseph of Arimathea
Simon the Cyrenian
John of the Cross

9. Where was Jesus crucified? (Matthew 27:33-35)
The Mount of Olives
Golgotha
Jerusalem
The Hinnom Valley

10. Which of these things did NOT happen when Jesus died? (Matthew 27:51-53)
the veil of the temple was torn in two
an earthquake
many saints were raised from the dead
the moon turned red

11. Who owned the tomb where Jesus was buried? (Luke 23:50-53)
Caiaphas
Joseph of Arimathea
Simon the Cyrenian
Mary Magdalene

12. What were the soldiers told to say regarding the missing body of Jesus? (Matthew 28:12-13)
His body fell into a crevice created by the earthquake
His mother moved the body to a different tomb
His disciples stole the body at night
He wasn't really dead - just unconscious

13. To who did Jesus first appear after his resurrection? (Mark 16:9)
Caiaphas
Mary Magdalene
His mother Mary
Peter

14. Which disciple said he would not believe Jesus had risen unless he could see the nail marks in his hands? (John 20:24-28)
Caiaphas
Andrew
Thomas
Peter


The Answers will not appear here until Friday, to give you a chance to think about it.

Is the Episcopal Church dying?

Let me ask a question: Is the Episcopal Church dying? I don't think so. It isn't the biggest denomination, but it has a rich history.

Did you know that more than a quarter (26%) of US Presidents have been Episcopalian. The list includes George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Gerald Ford, and George H. W. Bush. (Leaders of all kinds have been part of the Episcopal Church).

The current US Presiding Bishop, The Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori, is the first woman to hold that position. The Bishop of New Hampshire was the first openly gay person to be consecrated a bishop. (It’s never too late to be the first).

The Episcopal Church has more than 2.4 million members in 7,679 congregations in 110 dioceses (and one similar geographic convocation) situated in 15 countries plus the United States. A majority of Episcopal parishes and missions (56%) were founded before 1901. Only 3.3% of all Episcopal churches were started after 1990.

The Episcopal Church can grow once again and can attract new members and can preach the gospel of our Lord – I have seen proof of this fact myself. Why don’t we all work for this? It really doesn't matter about denomination though - it is not a competition. Jesus told us to spread the Word. He didn't tell us to bring everyone in to the Episcopal Church.

The sound of music II

Yesterday I mentioned the wonderful time I had Saturday night and the joy of music and that I intended to be at a wonderful service yesterday afternoon. Well, I was there and it was even more wonderful than I had expected. It was an interfaith service for peace at Saint Mark's Church in Berkeley. The liturgy was so moving that at one point I began to weep.

After the service, Brian Swager, organist at Fourth Church of Christ, Scientist in San Francisco gave a recital. The organ recital was not the end of the evening either. A lovely reception followed.

It was truly a wonderful afternoon of worship and community. Thanks be to God!

The sound of music

Have you ever been to a folk mass? In many Catholic and Episcopal churches they were very popular back in the late 60s and early 70s. Sometimes I wish we could bring them back. There is a certain excitement in all the people singing with great joy! All too often we sing in church like it is a great effort or we don’t sing at all, and let the choir do all the work.

Last night I was at a very small mass – I think there were only nine or ten of us, but we sang with joy. The mass setting was not familiar to me, but it didn’t matter. The fact that the priest was not familiar with English and sang often off key was also no problem. We had a superb cantor, and as I said, we had a lot of joy!

Afterward at dinner we all gathered around and sang while one of those present played the guitar. I broke into a lot of old songs like The Wedding Banquet, Edelweiss, and I Am The Bread of Life. The traditional music at mass this morning just won’t seem the same!

Since I am on vacation, I am going to a different church this morning and perhaps the music will be different. I have heard good things about the all volunteer choir and the new music director where I am going.

This afternoon there will be more music for me as I head to Berkeley to an interfaith service followed by an organ recital. (Yes, I DO like organ too)!

Stand by for news!

I cannot let the passing earlier this week of lengendary broadcaster Paul Harvey go unnoticed. I listened to him as a kid. For a time I remember his daily television segements too. His staccato style made him one of the nation's most familiar voices and when he died a week ago in Arizona (where my mom now lives) I paused and thought about his life.

Harvey worked for more than fifty years for abc Radio. Long time huh? He had been forced off the air for several months in 2001 because of a virus that weakened a vocal cord. But he returned to work in Chicago and was still active as he passed his 90th birthday.

He was known not only for his resonant voice, but also for his trademark delivery of "The Rest of the Story," and for "Good day" close and his "Stand by for news!" He was credited with inventing or popularizing terms such as "skyjacker," "Reaganomics" and "guesstimate."

His death came less than a year after that of his wife and longtime producer, Lynne Cooper whom he always called Angel.

I can tell you how much I always enjoyed hearing him on the radio. In recent years I have listened less and less, as I spend more time getting news from other sources, but I will always remember him.

Today at a Presbyterian church in Chicago, his body will lie in state and then at a public funeral service, family and friends will offer prayers and memories of this great man. May he rest in peace

Vacation nearly here! WOO HOO!

Well today is my last day of work for a little while. I'll be on vacation for the next week. I'm not flying anywhere or getting on a ship. I won't even be going out of town. I'm just resting and doing things I don't have time to on a regular basis. I'll have a little free time though so if you want to spend a minute or two with me, let me know.

Now I'm not going to be on vacation from my blog, so never fear! I will still be writing something here most of the time. Does anyone actually read this stuff?? Maybe I'll even write something about you!

Have a great weekend folks!

Last night's vigil

Last night, after working all day, I went to my church to set up for Evening Prayer, prior to the vigil at Civic Center. I was very surprised, and even a bit sad, that only one person showed up at church for the service.

Afterward I walked up to Market Street, where the march was already underway. I began walking alongside the many others. There were thousands! The police even closed down the streets to traffic there were so many people. On we went to City Hall, where I ran in to several friends (Richard Jonathan, SSF among them). There was music and speeches and cheering, and even though I was dead tired, I was so very happy. At one point I had tears streaming down my face.

Now today, in a three-hour hearing here in San Francisco, the State Supreme Court will consider challenges to Proposition 8. (Less than six months earlier, it was that same court of course that had declared that gays and lesbians had a constitutional right to marry).

The issue this time is different: not whether the marriage limitation is discriminatory or intrudes on personal freedom, but whether a majority of the voters, by amending the state Constitution, can eliminate minority rights that the court has recognized.

The hearing today starts at 9am and is expected to last three hours. The arguments will be carried on the California Channel, which is carried on Comcast cable systems in the Bay Area. The channel number varies from city to city, so check local listings. A live Webcast will be available at www.calchannel.com. The arguments will be shown on a JumboTron in San Francisco's Civic Center Plaza, too. There will also be webcasts on many of the San Francisco television stations.

Pray.

We will not know anything today. A ruling is due within 90 days.

March Forth!

Since this is March 4th, it seems appropriate to invite you to march forth!

As you probably already know, the California Supreme Court revisits same-sex marriage this week. In cities all across this state there will be candlelight marches. One will begin here in San Francisco at 6pm at Market and Castro (arrive between 5:30 and 6). I would also like you to know that I will NOT be at Market and Castro tonight as the march begins. Rather, I will be on my knees asking God to watch over all of us and for the Holy Spirit to open the hearts of all of those who think our love is not valid.

I will be officiating at Evening Prayer in my church at 6pm (which is the same time the march begins), but since my church here in San Francisco is just two blocks away from Civic Center, I can leave after the service and still catch the march and be present for the program in front of the state building. I’m certain many of the folks who come to the service will be offering silent prayers before the service begins, for their spouses, for the Supreme Court justices, for social justice, and for God’s blessing on ALL of God’s people.

You are certainly welcome to join us. Evening Prayer begins at 6pm at Advent of Christ the King, 261 Fell Street (between Franklin and Gough) in San Francisco. Note that there is no coffee hour or other social gathering afterward because, as I noted, I and others will be leaving immediately afterward for the march.

Favorite Prayers

Worship in Jesus day, was a highly structured affair, with written prayers for every occasion, and it's because written prayers offer some terrific benefits. First, they make it easier for us all to agree - and offer a common prayer. They also add to the unity of the historic Church as we unite with saints of all ages when we pray some of our prayers that are centuries old. Finally, it helps us put our thoughts to words accurately and eloquently. Saint Paul mentions prayer in every one of his epistles. In his letter to the Philippians, he says "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." In his first letter to Timothy, the Blessed Apostle writes "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all." (He seems to be saying here that various types of prayer are important).

Yesterday I was looking for prayers that would be significant to gay men an women. From time to time I have written petitions that are appropriate for various lgbt events. I really don’t have all the answers of “how” we pray - these are just a few thoughts. It is certain to me though that prayer is important. Saint Paul reminds us of that when in his first letter to the Thessalonians,
he says “Pray continually.”

So do you have a favorite prayer? The Lord’s Prayer - called the Our Father by some, is a favorite of many. I mentioned here recently a favorite of mine - the Prayer of Humble Access. How about the rest of you - any thoughts?

About Michael Fullam (or not)

When I began this blog it was my intention to tell you more about me. Just who is Michael Fullam? Well I suppose I do tell you a little of that, but for me it is more important to tell you about Jesus and His Church and the things He wants us to be doing (like the ashes I told you about last week). This week as the California Supreme Court revisits Prop 8, I hope you will all be praying for social justice.

I could talk about the rain (there seems to be an AWFUL lot of it lately). I could tell you how much more I would prefer the sun or even snow! That's not saying much about me though. Maybe I'm just not that good at talking about myself. Perhaps some of you could ask questions.

First Sunday in Lent

Today is the First Sunday in Lent. Last week I spoke of Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. Later today in my church and in many other churches around the world there will be special services - in many places the Great Litany will be said or sung. Just what is this Lent though?

The Teutonic word Lent, which we use to denote the forty days fast preceding Easter, originally meant no more than the spring season. Imagine that! Still it has been used from the Anglo-Saxon period to translate the more significant Latin term quadragesima, meaning the "forty days", or more literally the "fortieth day". One of the hymn we sing is Forty Days and Forty Nights.

Just how Lent is observed varies by location and by individual. Perhaps if you would like to add a comment here, you could tell us about your Lenten observance.

They will all know we are Christians by our sign

Søren Aabye Kierkegaard’s work crosses the boundaries of philosophy, theology, psychology, literary criticism, devotional literature and fiction. Over a hundred years ago, he told the parable of a man who was walking down a city street when he saw a big sign in a store window that said, “pants pressed here.”
Delighted to see the sign, he went home and gathered up all of his wrinkled laundry. He carried it into the shop and put it on the counter.

‘What are you doing?’ the shopkeeper demanded.

‘I brought my clothes here to be pressed” said the man, just like your sign says.”

‘Oh, you’ve got it all wrong,” the owner said. “We don’t actually do that here. We’re in the business of making signs.” We don’t do these things, he was saying. We just talk about them.
And that, said Kierkegaard, is often the problem in the church.

The Episcopal Church advertises itself as a place that is showing Christ’s love and doing Christ’s work. But when people show up looking for real love and real Christian action, they don’t see it. It can be said that the message of the church today is “Oh, no, we don’t love people here. We just talk about loving people here.”

(Yeah I know. I’m in BIG trouble now. And yes folks, there ARE loving people in churches. Let me continue though).

Have you ever visited a Presbyterian church or perhaps a Lutheran one? Did they make you feel welcome? Could you feel joy and love during the service? (Sometimes Anglicans can seem a bit cold to me. When we stand for the Creed, we often say it without any feeling, which must make our visitors wonder if we REALLY do believ those things). Did they take you by the hand and lead you to the coffee hour afterward?

When I began an internet group for lgbt Anglicans years ago there was I need I think, because lgbt people were so often excluded from the Church. Much has changed since then. Maybe we have gotten better at loving. I have always been amazed at how much love there has been there in that group - people who had been rejected and unloved, are still good at loving!

I think we really can make a difference in our own parish church too. Take an extra minute to say hello - not just to your friends, but to those you never talk to. If there are visitors, make sure they feel welcome. Do special things for people - you would be surprised how good it feels to have someone tell you they prayed for you last week, or they missed you in church when you were ill.

“The Episcopal Church Welcomes You,” says the sign. Is this another case of “We don’t actually do that here. We’re in the business of making signs?” I hope not. I pray that we can all extend the love that we have to all who come through our doors. We are the church after all and it is up to us to do that welcoming and to show that love!

Spreading The Word

They apparently had a PHENOMENAL Ash Wednesday at BART (I wrote a bit about what had been planned, the day before yesterday). A dozen clergy and lay people including my friends Father Bertie and Mother Rosa Lee, held a simple service at the station and imposed ashes on hundreds and hundreds of people.

Said Father Bertie: “Waves of commuters would come streaming from the BART escalators, and their responses ranged from complete confusion to overwhelming gratitude. The sight of an altar, 12 women and men of diverse ages in cassocks, swinging thuribles and marking ash crosses on the foreheads of Philippina grandmothers, homeless men and mission hipsters was undoubtably something of a spectacle, and was apparently documented on about a 1000 camera phones.”

At Holy Innocents Church, where some of the clergy and many of the laity came from, they at an Ash Wednesday Eucharist at 6:30 and had planned a simple soup supper there at the church to follow that with a reflection piece for the children who came for ashes and for the people who were at both the service at the church and at the BART station. Their vicar, Mother Rosa Lee reports “When we got back from BART the service inside was still going on and on my way downstairs to make final arrangements for the supper, peeked inside the nave and it was PACKED. At least double any service we have had on Ash Wednesday since I've been there. AND we had had at least 15 Holy Innocents people participate at BART in one way or another. My observation is that when the people of God know that there is work going on in the world, whether they are physically part of it or not, they feel it in the Body and show up. It was very exciting and gratifying to see how the work in the world strengthened the whole.” Indeed Mother. Indeed!

I wish I could be in two places at once. How wonderful that there was some much excitement for Jesus out on the streets! I was at another service, but thanks be to God for the witness and ministry of these wonderful people who are spreading The Word!

About Giving

Do you ever feel you want to give, but just aren’t sure how to do it? Perhaps you can relate to what I am about to say.

For five years I was the Evening Prayer coordinator at my parish and I still officiate at least once a week. I am a former altar guild member, and continue to serve as a lector, usher, greeter, and acolyte. I am serving on the vestry (board of directors) for the second time and have represented my parish as both a delegate and an alternate to Diocesan Convention. I was on the board of Oasis/California for six years, the last three as vice-president. I have also been editor (first by myself, and now for the past several years with someone else) of my parish newspaper. Despite this, I feel empty. I just don’t feel like I am making a difference. I would like to more engaged in the whole world.

Six years ago I founded an international group for lgbt Anglicans, which has a fairly active internet list serve. I was on the board of directors of the SF LGBT Pride Celebration committee, and continue to volunteer each year for that event. I also volunteered the past two years for the Episcopal Charities Walk-a-thon and raised money through my participation in both that event and also AIDS Walk SF. Still, I don’t feel I am doing nearly enough.

Am I giving all that I have? Do I still have time or talent that I can offer? Am I able to donate money? What can I do that will really be of help and benefit to others? Giving requires the highest standard of personal discipline. It is not a casual or occasional thing. In Saint Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians (v 8-9), he tells us we are to give willingly, generously, and cheerfully. That seems pretty easy, but yet I feel like I can - and should, do more. (Blessed Paul also reminds us that Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive).

I know that many of you are probably givers, so I invite your comments and suggestions. I will also continue to pray that God will show the pathway more clearly and that I will give back in a way that truly is beneficial to my sisters and brothers and to the Kingdom of Heaven. I bid your prayers as well.

Remember that you are dust

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. It gets its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of the faithful as a sign of repentance. The ashes used are gathered after the Palm Crosses from the previous year's Palm Sunday are burned. In the liturgical practice of some churches, the ashes are mixed with the Oil of the Catechumens(one of the sacred oils used to anoint those about to be baptized), though some churches use ordinary oil. This paste is used by the priest who presides at the service to make the sign of the cross, first upon his own forehead and then on each of those present who kneel before him at the altar rail. As he does so, he recites the words: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return."

Tonight I will be in my parish church for a very traditional Ash Wednesday service - High Mass with music and incense and fine vestments. I' certin it will be a lovely liturgy, but meanwhile, my friend Bertie will be at a transit station here in San Francisco, bringing ashes to the people - bringing the Good News to the people! He will hopefull be joined by a number of others. I wish I was able to also be there!

Thanks be to God for the witness and ministry of Father Bertie!

Oscar Night

Yes I know the Academy Awards were Sunday and this is now Tuesday. I just haven't gotten to it yet. (Tonight my church is having a pancake supper, which I would really like to say something about, but there is so much else to say - yall come though)!

The Oscar telecast was not the best (first let me say that I woke up after it had begun intending to go out, so I did miss a bit of it. I have already seen clips on the news though and heard numerous comments. I did watch most of the show too, so I would think my comments are valid). There were several lame production numbers. Queen Latifa sang one of my favorite songs, but the pictures what went with the song, of those who died in the past year were very hard to see. The awards were mostly predictable, although I did mostly agree with them. The happiest moments for me, were the two wins for Milk. Here is Sean Penn's acceptance speech:


"Thank you. Thank you. You commie, homo-loving sons-of-guns. I did not expect this, but I, and I want it to be very clear, that I do know how hard I make it to appreciate me often. But I am touched by the appreciation and I hoped for it enough that I did want to scribble down, so I had the names in case you were commie, homo-loving sons-of-guns, and so I want to thank my best friend, Sata Matsuzawa. My circle of long-time support, Mara, Brian, Barry and Bob. The great Cleve Jones. Our wonderful writer, Lance Black. Producers Bruce Cohen and Dan Jinks.And particularly, as all, as actors know, our director either has the patience, talent and restraint to grant us a voice or they don't, and it goes from the beginning of the meeting, through the cutting room. And there is no finer hands to be in than Gus Van Sant. And finally, for those, two last finallies, for those who saw the signs of hatred as our cars drove in tonight, I think that it is a good time for those who voted for the ban against gay marriage to sit and reflect and anticipate their great shame and the shame in their grandchildren's eyes if they continue that way of support.We've got to have equal rights for everyone. And there are, and there are, these last two things. I'm very, very proud to live in a country that is willing to elect an elegant man president and a country who, for all its toughness, creates courageous artists. And this is in great due respect to all the nominees, but courageous artists, who despite a sensitivity that sometimes has brought enormous challenge, Mickey Rourke rises again and he is my brother. Thank you all very much."

Bad Day

Did you ever have one of those days where nothing went right? Yesterday was one of them for me! (I guess I shouldn’t say nothing went right. I guess some of the day was okay).

Anyway, first thing in the morning I learned of a Mardi Gras event at a local church. It was taking place late in the afternoon. I already had plans to go to another church in the afternoon. Perhaps a brief appearance at the first event and then a quick taxi ride to the other one (a service, so a specific beginning time). That’s what I decided to do. Well, remember my bout with kidney stones? The pain was back and so I popped a couple of pills and went to bed. I had thought that the pain would be gone and I would arise refreshed and ready to go. EXCEPT, that I overslept! I never woke up until 6:45pm! The first event began at 4pm and the second at 5:30. By the time I was showered and dressed, both would surely be over. I so wanted to go to both. The service was an anniversary celebration for a dear friend.

To make matters worse, when it was actually time for bed, I couldn’t get to sleep. I spent most of the night tossing and turning. I’ll most likely be a mess all day today. I sure hope this doesn’t mean TWO days where things didn’t go right! (At least I did get to watch most of the Academy Awards last night - I'll have some thoughts about that tomorrow).

The Lord's Day

Here it is Sunday - the Lord's Day. What will I be doing? Well I plan to be at my church and two others. Along the way there may be some other things too. I really think that every day belong's to the Lord, so it comes pretty easily, doing things for His honor and glory.

This week we also begin Lent, the holy season of preparation before Easter. I'll write more about that as the week proceeds.

A happy week to all of you!

Famous Feline Dies

The former first feline, Socks died yesterday after battling throat cancer. I was going to post something here about arranging flowers for church (which I am doing later today) or the Latin Chant mass (which I will be at at 5pm today) or the vestry training (in which I will take part this morning) or even the wonderful gospel reading for tomorrow (about the Transfiguration), but when I heard that the Clintons' cat had died at the age of 20, I decided to tell you about that. I love this picture (obviously taken quite a while ago).

What a beautiful week!

Okay, so I haven't exactly felt all that well. Kidney stones are NOT fun! But hey, if you are going to feel bad, why not do it in the most beautiful city on Earth and with great weather? The Golden Gate has truly been golden this week. Yesterday's weather was quite nice and more of the same is forecast for today. So, even though I may have a few pains, I can still rejoice in God's creation!

I do hope it is beautiful where you are too. If not, find some beauty in some everyday kind of thing. I think we can always find some.

To Google

Just about everyone that has internet access has used Google at some time. This week I googled several things relating to my kidney stones. While I was doing that I also googled my name. (Yes, I realized I posted something about this a few months ago, but hold on a sec - this is different). I searched specifically for images and actually got 65 hits! Most of them were not actually of me (a few were), but a great many were related to me in some way (an lgbt group I started online, my facebook page, my church, ets). It was a bit interesting and I invite you to do the same thing. On one of these rainy days, google yourself!

Looking back at the vestry retreat

The pictures are from the vestry retreat from earlier this month. I posted serveral entries about it, and now here finally are also a few photographs, including the above of all of us.

A bit of a health scare

I have been in a bit of physical discomfort the past few days. It really was nothing that I would normally blog about. At first I just thought it was something I ate - no big deal. Sundayafter church it was feeling worse and so in the middle of the afternoon, I was in bed. Yesterday I felt better when I arose and so figured it was past. Then it hit again, and harder - MUCH HARDER. The pain in my stomach was so bad it felt like I was giving birth. Off to the hospital I went. Well it was not my appendex as I (and the advise nurse on the telephone)had feared. Seems to be a kidney stone or two - very hard to see on the CT. They seem quite small and should be easily passed (at least the doctor said so). There was also a small "growth" on my liver. That doesn't seem to be to be bad either. Am having an ultrasound tomorrow to check it out further. Anyway, the discomfort is less right now than yesterday or earlier today and I sould be as good as new by week's end.

The picture, for those of you who notice such things is of Kaiser Permanente here in San Francisco, where I went for this treatment. EXCELLENT! The nurses and doctors and everyone was so professional and they really helped ease my worry. If you have to be sick, this is the place to go!

The Amazing Bible Puzzle

This is a most remarkable puzzle. It was found by a gentleman, in an airplane seat pocket, on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied for hours. He enjoyed it so much; he passed it on to some friends. One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his johnboat. Another friend studied it while playing his banjo. Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper column. Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involving, she brews a cup of tea to help her nerves. There will be some names that are really easy to spot. That's a fact. Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalized. Truthfully, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or scholar to see some of them at the worst. Research has shown that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in this paragraph. During a recent fund raising event, which featured this puzzle, the Alpha Delta Phi lemonade booth set a new sales record. The local Paper, The Chronicle, surveyed over 200 patrons who reported that this puzzle was one of the most difficult they had ever seen. As Daniel Humana humbly puts it, "the books are right there in plain view, hidden from sight." Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown. One revelation that may help is that books like Timothy and Samuel may occur without their numbers. Also, keep in mind, that punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal. A chipper attitude will help you compete really well against those who claim to know the answers. Remember, there is no need for a mad exodus. There really are thirty books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph waiting to be found.

More bits and pieces

Today is a sort of “this and that” day. I have so many bits and pieces and they really don’t seem to fall under any category. I was going to do an amazing puzzle here today (it’s fun - you have to find the books of the Bible hidden in my text), but that’s a bit long, so I think I will do it tomorrow by itself. (Something to look forward to).

Speaking of puzzles, I have run a few quizzes here in the past - one fairly recently on The Episcopal Church. Did any of you take the quiz? How did you do? Want some more of them?

I have learned in the past few days that at least two different people whom I know personally read this regularly! WOW! I had actually begun thinking that nobody I know reads it. Anyway, do please feel free to add your comments here, and thanks \reading! Thanks also to the person who signed up to sponsor me within hours of my post last week about registering again for AIDS Walk SF. (And yes of course you can still donate - there are still five months to go! My personal fundraising page is at http://aidswalksanfran2009.kintera.org/tongzhi).

Yesterday was Valentine’s Day and in addition to my usual Valentine from my mom, I also received one from a friend, and it really made my day! It’s amazing how little acts of kindness can really make a difference. I was also thinking of that last night with my Franciscan friends as I participated in the mass at the Friary and ate dinner with them. There was so much love in that house.

I am so blessed !

Happy Valentine's Day!

Yesterday I got a bit silly with my "pre-Valentine" post here, but in all seriousness folks, I wish you all the love in the world. Someday I hope we can all see a world where we will actually be able to be with the person we love!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

Nothing at all to do with Friday the 13th

I already received the only Valentines I will most likely get - a card from my mom, the first (hopefully of many) contribution to my AIDS Walk SF participation, and the knowledge that God always loves me - just as I am! May your Valentine bring you much happiness tomorrow!

AIDS Walk San Francisco

Every year I walk - every year I ask for help. It's important. I really feel called to do it. Today I will register again for AIDSWalk SF. The annual fundraiser isn't until the summer, but you can be among the first to support me by going to http://aidswalksanfran2009.kintera.org/tongzhi

If you don’t already know, AIDS Walk San Francisco benefits the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and other HIV/AIDS organizations serving the six Bay Area counties. The San Francisco AIDS Foundation continues to lead the way in HIV/AIDS advocacy, lobbying for critical policy change in Sacramento and Washington, and working to ensure unfettered access to life-saving HIV treatment and care. Your support enables the Foundation to realize its mission of ending the pandemic and human suffering caused by HIV.

I have been blessed to have the support of many family members and friends in the past years. I know all too well that times are hard and money is tighter than ever. That’s why this year is all the more important and why I have registered early to get a head start on fundraising. Won’t you consider going to my personal fundraising page and making a donation? Just click or copy this URL into your browser: http://aidswalksanfran2009.kintera.org/tongzhi


Thanks so much for your support!

The Prayer of Humble Access

There was a humble young man (only 19 years old), who stowed away on a train bound from Chicago, Illinois for San Francisco, California. He arrived at Fell Street one night with no money and no place to stay, but as luck would have it, he found an unlocked car and crawled in to sleep. The next morning he gave thanks at mass, at a little church down the street from that unlocked car. The year was 1932 and the young man was someone I would meet years later at my church. The little church I mention here was the very same one where this man still worships and were I do as well.

That man didn’t just attend one service at our church and then leave, he became a member and he got involved. He served on committees, on the vestry (parish board of directors), and inspired others to a life of prayer. Many of the wonderful photographs in the parish archives are due to his generousity and his always faithful camera. I wish he had turned the camera on himself, if only occasionally. It seems we don’t have nearly as many pictures of him as we do of others around the parish.

During the 150th anniversary celebration of the parish last year, a group of students from the neighboring school, interviewed several members of the parish for a play they were staging. This gentleman was one of those interviewed. On the night of the performance, I had the pleasure of sitting next to him and saw how the performance touched him and brought back many fond memories. The interviewer asked the student playing him if he had a favorite prayer. There was a momentary pause, and then, the young actor, clearly and distinctly from the front of the church and the much older man he was playing (with tears streaming down his face), from right beside me, both recited the words of the prayer, which is also a favorite of mine:

We do not presume to come to this thy Table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in thy manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under thy Table. But thou art the same Lord, whose property is always to have mercy: Grant us therefore, gracious Lord, so to eat the flesh of thy dear Son Jesus Christ, and to drink his blood, that our sinful bodies may be made clean by his body, and our souls washed through his most precious blood, and that we may evermore dwell in him, and he in us. Amen.

This prayer I continue to say to quietly, just before I receive communion each time.

M - O - M

I had a nice telephone conversation with my mom last night. We talk all the time, so that isn’t news. We talked about our camp experiences though, so it kept with the theme I have had here these past few days. (The director or the camp here recently visited my mom’s diocesan camp there in Arizona, too – another connection). At her camp they do a week at the end of each summer for senior citizens. This year, at the age of 82, she will be going for her third time.

I saw a guy buying candy and a card with hearts all over it – a very feminine and fancy one. I said to him, I’ll bet your wife will be pleased. He replied, “I’m not married. This is for my mom.” A Valentine from my mom has already arrived for me in the mail. (Most likely it will be the only one I receive).

What have you done for your mom lately? Don’t forget her on Valentine’s Day!

A bit more about Saint Dorothy's Rest

If you read my words here every day, you know that the past two days I spoke about the retreat we went to over the weekend. The pictures on both Saturday and yesterday were from Saint Dorothy's Rest, where I retreat took place. Today's picture is of the interier of the chapel (Saturday you saw the outside).

We are back home now. Our retreat is behind us, but I wanted to say a few more words about Saint Dorothy's Rest. It really is quite a wonderful place. Even though it is operated by the Episcopal Diocese of California, it is open to anyone. You don't have to be a church group to go there. A lovely way to get closer to nature!

For more information, visit their website by clicking HERE.

Our Mission

Continuing in the woods of Sonoma County in the tiny town of Camp Meeker, we are enjoying our time at Saint Dorothy's Rest (staying in Lydia House, pictured here) and thinking about our mission. We ironed out a lot of specifics yesterday (besides enjoying some delicous French Toast, huge baked potatoes will many toppings choices, and wonderful pasta). This morning, Saint Paul gives an assist in his first letter to the Church at Corinth. The appointed epistle for todays says:

If I proclaim the gospel, this gives me no ground for boasting, for an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, I am entrusted with a commission. What then is my reward? Just this: that in my proclamation I may make the gospel free of charge, so as not to make full use of my rights in the gospel.

For though I am free with respect to all, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though I myself am not under the law) so that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law) so that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, so that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that I might by all means save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings

A weekend at Saint Dorothy's Rest

Several trip to the tiny chapel seen here (for Morning Prayer, Mass, Evening Prayer, and Compline) and a few walks through the woods to the dining room, as well as other walking during free time, will be just part of a retreat at Saint Dorothy's Rest. A redwood forest provides a magnificent backdrop at the oldest continually-operating summer camp in California, where the leadership of my parish has gathered to vision and share our expectations.

The specifics of what we do will most likely be boring to most of you. There are probably some private things that I really shouldn't talk about too. This wonderful setting is certainly worth telling you about though. If you are in Northern California, you might want to end up here yourself! (Retreat space is available for various size groups and also for individuals).

The Word of the Lord

We all want to hear from God: to know His Will, to feel His encouragement, and to rest in His Love. The surest way to hear God's voice is through His Word, right?

In our busy days we don't make the time we ought to (the time we want and need) to get into the Bible. Sometimes you might want to consider reading a chapter or even just a page a day, perhaps just before bed. Reading the Psalms is a great place to start.

Actually I read the New Testament through from beginning to end, and then start over. I read to logical breaks (the end of a particular chapter of story). I also read the Psalter in the same way. I begin with Psalm 1 and continue on. When I get to the end, I simply go back to the beginning. Sometimes I use a different translation for the next time through.

I find comfort of course in Psalm 23. When I meditate on Matthew 6:25 and remember that I should not worry about anything but keep my trust in God.

My favorite? Well for those of you who know me, this should be no surprise. In Saint Paul's letter to the Romans (chapter 8) he says "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." How wonderful is that?

Try it. I think you will really like the result!

Everything you always wanted to know about Michael Fullam

Now there is an intriging title: "Everything you always wanted to know about Michael Fullam." Actually I have probably already posted MUCH MORE than any of you dear readers want to know. Today is Thursday (you already knew that) and I have tons to do, and yet here I am with my daily post! I want to tell you all about my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but there is so very much to say. Stay tuned. I will have much more to tell you! Knowing Jesus is much more important than knowing Michael Fullam!

This weekend I will be on retreat with leadership members of my parish church. Right now I have a heavy heart. I hope this will be a very positive weekend!

It's nice to be important, but

Years ago when I was on the radio, I ended each shift by saying "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice." It's not an original thought. It was been said by others. Lately I have been thinking about it a lot. People seem to be less nice. What's going on?

I have seen people push in front of others waiting in line. I have seen people slam doors in other people's face. I have heard incredibly rude comments from MANY different people lately. It's not that I hang out in a bad part of town. This has been happening just about everywhere - even in church!

It only takes a second to smile and to say please or thank you. It really isn't hard at all! If someone does something for you, thank them. They will appreciate that and you will actually feel better yourself!

Having a bad day? Did something rotten just happen to you? I'll bet if you trying smiling and being nice, that bad feeling will go away (or at least lessen). Seriously folks - try it!

Pushups?

At quick glance you might think I am doing pushups. I am not.

I should be though.

In Saint Pauls first letter to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 6:19-20) he says "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."

Being in shape physically is another goal I should be working on! All of us should!

An Invitation

Some of you know that on May 19, 2002 (which was the Feast of Pentecost that year), I began an online group for lgbt Anglicans. The group grew slowly through referrals and links from other sites. Initially we were primarily a listserve, but now have grown to a global community of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Anglicans and our friends. The listserve is still active and we invite you to participate. You must however be a member to send and receive messages.

I'd like to invite you to join us! Just CLICK HERE to join the listserve at yahoo! groups or to find out more, please feel free to send me your questons. We'd love to hear about your church, your partner (if you're in a relationship), your hopes for the future of Christ's Church, and your experiences within the Anglican Communion. Occasionally our members have gotten together with other members. We have also exchanged pictures and have sent personal email back and forth. You are certainly welcome to pursue friendships with any group members.

Oh and feel free to tell your lgbt friends too. You can be gay AND Christian!

This and That

Ever have one of those days when you have a LOT to say? This is one of those days for me!

First off I want to thank my Franciscan brothers for their warm hospitality last night. (Of course there is always warm hospitality at San Damiano Friary). I was there for mass and then for supper afterward. A lovely way to end the day.

The epistle of Paul's that I posted here about yesterday, I still and thinking about. I will be reading it in my church during a service in just a few hours. Perhaps it will become clearer.

This afternoonI will be traveling to another church - Saint Mark's in Berkeley. I always love being there. The folks are so friendly and the music is excellent, and they have some many programs and are so involved. (Looking for a community of faith in the Berkeley, CA area? I would certainly recommend Saint Mark's).

A question for all of you before I close: has anyone every heard a legend about the dead coming to life on Candlemas Eve? Tomorrow is Candlemas and so tonight would be the night. I seem to recall some kind of story. Perhaps it was a film. Any of you familiar with this?