Parish News

From the Desk of the Rector

Clergy Update - I am pleased to announce that I have changed Fr. Mark Atkinson's title to Associate Rector.  Fr. Mark is a great gift to COOS and to me.  It is only fitting that we recognize him as my Associate Rector as we share as partners in  ministry.  I give thanks to God for his presence among us.

The Rev. Dr. Richard Turk will be assisting us with services.  We welcome him  and are so grateful that he is willing to share his gift of preaching and his many years of experience with us.

The Rev. David McElwain, who is a full time Navy Chaplain, was ordained to the Priesthood in the Diocese of Eastern Carolina on February 9.  He will also be assisting us at the altar as soon as Bishop Howard licenses him to officiate in the Diocese of Florida.  Welcome Fr. McElwain, and his wife Linda, when you see them.

A Call to Endowment - Since 1994, Church of Our Saviour has had a Foundation.  It is time for us to use our Foundation to build funds that insure our future.  I am calling for the establishment of endowed funds as living gifts as well as bequests.  I am asking for 4 twenty-five thousand dollar endowments for 2008 to get us started.  These endowments can be set up in memory  of someone, in honor of someone, or for a special purpose.  If you would be interested in this, please contact me and we will set up a confidential appointment.  You will be hearing more about our Planned Giving Program in the near future.  We have received so much from those who have gone before and it is essential that we provide for those who will  come.

COOS NEWS - Shortly we will have an electronic news announcement that will come directly from the Rector informing parishioners of items that need to be communicated quickly.  Please send your e-mail address to blalockj@coos.org so that you will receive this important information.

Annual Church Challenge Cup - Save the Date fo April 19 for the second Annual Church Challenge Cup.  THis is our annual parish golf tournament.  If you are interested in helping with the tournament or in sponsoring a hole, please contact Gary Martz [martz32223@comcast.net] or Dorsey Bates [cdbatesjr@hotmail.com]

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Sunday Morning Christian Education

Classes for all ages as well as all youth groups resume meet on Sunday mornings.

Adult Christian Ed meets in the Great Hall after breakfast from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.

Coffee Pot Theology meets in the River Room to discuss current issues in the church and hove to live out our Christian faith in the world where we live and move and have our being.

Youth grades 6-12 meet at the FLC (building across the street) from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. each Sunday morning.

Afternoon youth groups for grades 6-8 known as (L.I.F.E.) meets generally 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and for grades 9-12 known as (C.H.A.O.S.) meets generally 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday evenings.

Dinner is served to both groups from 6-6:30 p.m. Youth Club for grades 4-5 meets generally once a month immediately following the 10:30 service until 1:30 p.m.

It's important to watch bulletins and e-mails for schedule changes for afternoon youth activities. To receive a weekly e-mail with the latest information, contact fbshults @ aol.com.

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NEW Co-ed Bible Study Formed

Christian education is about sharing the story of our religious traditions. It re-kindles our enthusiasm and helps us recognize the work of God in our lives. A Bible Study gives us the opportunity to advance our faith walk with other Christians in a loving and non-threatening setting. At COOS there are four Bible Study groups meeting on a regular basis and new groups are forming.

A co-ed class meets in the FLC on Wednesday evenings from 7:00–8:30 PM. This is a chance for husbands and wives or singles to come for study and fellowship. The format focuses on the lectionary; the readings for the coming Sunday. Marc Geiger leads the group. If you are interested, call Marc at 262-8889.

The Wednesday Ladies Bible Study meets in the FLC on Wednesday from 9:30–11:45 AM. The ladies are studying Beth Moore’s Daniel. Call Pam Gillis at 272-3126 for more information.

The Mens Bible Study meets in the FLC every Tuesday from 8:00–9:00 AM. Led by Tuck Eudy, this group is currently studying Pauls letter to the Romans. Bring your coffee and join this longstanding group for a quick hour of prayer, study, and fellowship. For information call Tuck Eudy at 268-5616.

The Thursday Ladies Bible Study meets in the FLC from 9:30– 10:30 AM. This group will end their reading of Ephesians soon and begin a new study using the Serendipity Series. The ladies will break for the summer in June and restart after Labor Day. For more information contact Shirley Kingsnorth at 287-0651. The fellowship and study time you devote to a Bible Study will be a blessing to you and your participation will be a blessing to the group. Join today!

Diocesan News

Bishop Howard's Address to the 165th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Florida.

2008 Diocesan Convention Election Results.

National News

   Find the latest news from the National Church here.