Seabury Resources for Aging - Congregational Programs

Senior Celebrations

2012 Celebration: May 15, 2012, noon at the Washington Cathedral

The Diocese of Washington and Seabury Resources for Aging host an annual service honoring the contributions of older adults to the parish, the Diocese and community. Each parish is invited to select an older adult from their congregation. Please join us as we celebrate these individuals and their contributions. Call (202) 414-6314 or email for more information.

Annually, Senior Celebrations recognizes the contributions of older adults to their congregations and communities through special events during May, Older Americans Month.

Introducing the 2012 Honorees to be acknowledged at Senior Celebration!

All Saint’s Episcopal, Chevy Chase, honors Mrs. Anna Schiavo Tyng

Anna Schiavo Tyng, a parishioner of All Saints Church, Chevy Chase parish, has been serving God’s people at this church for more than 40 years. She is well known as a tireless advocate for the homeless, raising awareness of their needs both among us and in the wider community. In both word and action, she has inspired many to step out in faith to promote respect for the marginalized among us and to see to their well-being without counting the cost. As this parish’s long-standing congregational representative to the Community Council for the Homeless at Friendship Place, she has mobilized volunteer energies and marshaled resources, not only in support of that organization, but also for direct assistance to the homeless and hungry who come seeking help from our food pantry and thrift store. Along with her late husband, Bill, Anna became one of our first Stephen Ministers, and in that capacity she has served her fellow parishioners as a compassionate, dedicated, and trustworthy friend. As a lay minister bringing Holy Eucharist to the sick and homebound, by giving generously of her time and talents to coordinate and provide for hospitality and assistance for friend and stranger alike, Anna amply demonstrates her faith in the Communion of Saints.

All Souls Washington, honors Mr. James Robert Child

Jim Child has been an active member of All Souls since 2002, and has been an enormous part of the worship life and the educational life of the parish. Fluent and well-read in many languages, Jim has spent his retirement years pouring over the scriptures in Hebrew and Greek. He generously gives of his time as a tutor and teacher to parishioners and others who might like to learn biblical languages. Jim is a frequent teacher in the parish adult Christian formation programs and has a particular love for the Early Church and the history and theology of the Creeds and the development of Trinitarian Theology. When he is away from Washington in the summer months, participating in the life of another Episcopal parish in Massachusetts, Jim works as a gentle evangelist for Rite I liturgy—all the while, worshiping fully and graciously among his summer parish. When he is not studying, Jim is often helping other parishioners with transportation, medical appointments, reading to the blind, and continuing to model what it looks like to grow “in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and other people.”

Church of the Atonement, Washington, honors Mrs. Cora M. Floyd

Description of Service in the Church
I moved to Washington, DC in 1963 and have been a member of the Episcopal Church of the Atonement for more than 40 years. I am very active in many of the church’s organizations and in the community where I live.
I am currently active in the following: (1) Treasurer of St. Clare’s Guild. I have been a member of this Guild since I joined the church, with prior service as President/two terms; Secretary/two terms; and Treasurer/four previous terms. (2) Currently serving as President of the Atonement Welcoming Committee. Over the past seven years, I have served two terms as President. (3) Sunday School teacher for seven years. (4) Chaplain of the Episcopal Church Women of Atonement. I was honored as the Atonement Woman of Year in 2009. (5) A current member of the Atonement Vestry. Also served two prior terms. (6) Licensed Lay Eucharistic Minister and Licensed Lay Eucharistic Visitor. As such I serve on the altar as a lector and chalicist, and I accompany the Rector on visits to the sick and shut-in members of our congregation. (7) A member of the recently established Laying on of Hands Ministry. (8) Member of St. Ann’s Chapter of the Daughters of the King. (9) I also serve as an usher.

In addition to the pleasure of serving with the church organizations above, I instituted and carry out the decorating of the undercroft of the church for Christmas and other major events. I also developed our custom of giving gift bags to all visitors to our church on Sundays.

Description of Service in my Community
Over the years, I have participated in the following: Member of the Queens Chapel Civic Association – publisher of the Association’s newsletter for five years and Secretary for two years. I served as a Cub Scout Den Mother for five years. I took great pleasure in my role as an actress at the U.S. Customs Service before my retirement. We visited various government agencies performing plays during Black History Month. As a member of the Howard Hospital Auxiliary, I helped with fundraising for various departments within the Hospital. I also participated in the International Toastmistress Club at the local, regional and international level and twice served as President of my local chapter.

Calvary Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Mrs. Ethel Wooden

Ethel Wooden is a very dedicated senior at Calvary. The following are some of the areas that she participates in: Ethel has been volunteering with the homeless breakfast program for several years on Saturday mornings to serve the homeless and disadvantaged. She works on the Calvary Amenities committee which includes the mailing committee.

Ethel has a beautiful soprano voice. She is a member of the Calvary Parish choir. She is also a member of the Lydia Chapter of the Daughters of the King. Ethel is a member of the Calvary Women and Girls Organization and participates in the annual Women’s Day, Sisterhood Tea, and the outreach program which gives hats, gloves, scarves, school supplies, etc. to J.O. Wilson Elementary School. She also volunteers with the Howard University Auxiliary at Howard University Hospital working mostly in the gift shop. Ethel is always ready and willing to be of assistance. She is very deserving of being selected as Calvary’s honoree for 2012.

Christ Episcopal Church, Clinton, honors Connie Inge and Connie Russell
Connie Inge Connie Russell

Connie Russell has been a devoted member of Christ Episcopal Church, Clinton for more than fifty-five years; from the time before it was an independent parish. She has been here during the tenure of all five of the church’s rectors. She came when the church was in its heyday, and remained a staunch supporter as the church declined; she is delighted to still be here to see us growing and moving forward again. She has attended Sunday worship faithfully, whether Morning Prayer or Holy Eucharist, and been a consistent giver of time, talent and treasure.

She has served in many capacities over the years. For the Episcopal Church Women she has served as president, treasurer and recording secretary at various times.   She has been on the vestry more than once, as vestry member and as registrar, and continues to support our leadership by her participation in various committees. She is currently active in the Finance Committee and its subcommittee, Stewardship, working to improve our financial health.

Connie has put her particular talents to good use from time to time. She sang in the church choir for many years, and has employed her sewing skills on various projects, from tablecloths, to altar cloths to clerical vestments. With her organizational ability and her penchant for detail, she recently oversaw the production of our new church cookbook.

Over the years she has worked at many parish functions and dinners, wherever needed, from the kitchen, to the dining room to the reception table. Most recently she was the driving force behind our Cook’s Club, a loosely knit group that puts on monthly Spaghetti dinners; these evenings provide a community service and opportunity for fellowship, in addition to raising funds for the parish.

Connie was also involved in the birth of the Christ Church Thrift Shop in October, 2009. It is located in the undercroft, although Connie has put forth great effort to set up the house next door to the church (which the church owns), for use by the shop. The shop is currently open two Saturdays per month, with staff work days on most Tuesdays, and Connie can usually be found hard at work with the thrift shop team
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She continues to help out wherever she is able, including overseeing Sunday coffee hour, updating the cradle roll with new baptisms, lending her creative flair to ensure our seasonal bulletin board is timely and engaging, and helping out as needed in the church office. She helps promote numerous church activities by preparing/distributing flyers, occasional newspaper advertisements, post card mailings, and personal contact/invitation.

Still going strong at eighty-four years young, Connie Russell provides leadership and inspiration to those of all ages who follow in her footsteps. She is, and will ever be, at the heart of our Christ Church family.

Christ Episcopal Church, Kensington, honors Mr. Jo Crozier

Christ Church, Kensington is proud to nominate Jo Crozier as our Parish Honoree Selection for his service to Christ Church.   Jo, and his wife Florence, have been members of Christ Church for 23 years and Jo has served on the Vestry and also as Junior Warden. He has been in charge of Property at Christ Church for over three years and has landscaped our courtyard as well as the property around the new wing of the church. Jo is always helpful to other Vestry members in recommending parishioners who may be supportive of their tasks. Jo continues to care for our grounds at the age of 91, bringing a spirit of faith and deep caring for our parish and its members. Christ Church has been blessed to have Jo as one of our long-time parishioners.

Christ Lutheran Church, Washington, honors Mr. Herbert Turvey

Herbert Turvey, age 78, has provided much erudite theological reflection at our adult forums for many years. Not only is he well read in theological matters, he is well traveled too, having lived in Europe for a while. He studied under Paul Tillich, a famous theologian. Herb shares his knowledge and ideas in Bible studies also – a man of great faith. Herb also understands the importance of music, classical music especially in ministry and has significantly subsidized our church’s organ master and choir, bringing the richness of glorious church music to each Sunday service.

Collington Episcopal Life Care Community honors Mrs. Pat King

Epiphany Episcopal, Forestville, honors Raquel and Vernon Nash

Raquel and Vernon Nash are being recognized for many years of dedicated service to the church and the community. Raquel is President of the Altar Guild and is assisted and supported by Vernon. Vernon serves as a Lay Eucharistic Minister, an Acolyte Master and is on the Stewardship Committee. Together they are an integral part of our Outreach Ministry through the Share program, Warm Nights and feeding the homeless at the Community Café in Hyattsville. Raquel is a founding co-leader of our Prayer Bead Ministry. They both are steadfast in their efforts even while dealing with illnesses. Their dedication is an inspiration to others.

Church of the Epiphany, Washington, honors Don and Judy Lokerson

Donald:
   Married at Epiphany to Judy, August 25, 1962
   Confirmed at Epiphany March 1963
   Member of the Epiphany Young Adults 1963 until ? President of the group late 60's to early 70's
   Member of the Vestry 1970-73, again 1986-89, again in the 1990's
   Junior Warden 1973-1978
   Senior Warden 1978-1983
   Delegate to the Diocesan Convention for many years
   Member of Seminarian Committee for Andrew Archie 1977-79, as well as one for Doug Greenway in early 1990's
   Member of Organist/Music Director Committee 1987
   Member of the Finance, Property, Worship Committees among others
   Head of the Property Committee for several years
   Usher in early 1960's before becoming head usher in early 70's and holding that job for 35+ years
   Member of the Renovation Committee in the 1980's under Ford Chinworth
   Worked as office volunteer every other week from his retirement in 2007 until the renovation began last year - hope to resume next month.
     As head of the Property committee, he, among several jobs,
       1. Climbed the tower periodically and oversaw the installation of mylar screens to keep the birds out, as it was a real mess up there. (PS He wouldn't let me climb up there until 1989.)
       2. Had netting installed to cover the magnolia trees, to minimize the damage by the birds.
       3. Installed a series of 4 bathroom fans, with my help and with guidance from Jim Buonemani, among the organ pipes behind the reredos and underneath the organ pipes in the basement to stabilize keeping the organ in tune. (An article about his efforts appeared in The Diapaison , a trade magazine for organists.)
       4. Answered and responded to many calls from ADT during the night, often accompanied by me and/or our daughters.
       5. Kept the PA system going, along with the remote amplifiers. Had me soldering wires under the lectern at one point.
       6. Engaged a company, DUMOD (I think), to paint the outside of the church, after we bought the paint.
       7. Made an occasional foray to the basement to keep the furnace running, to check clocks, supplies, etc.
       8. Was the first to be called after the organ was set afire in 1983 and had to notify Charles Callahan about the incident. They were down at the church most of the night.
       9. Organized a large group of Young Adults to paint all of the second floor walls as well as the walls of the gymnasium, complete with refreshments to boot.
      In addition, he was deputized to keep the press out of the church the night when Elizabeth Carl was ordained and again the following Sunday (but he showed a Time photographer where he could stand outside the gate and maybe get a picture as she came out of the church near the office and walked to the side door in the garden with Kit Sherrill {the picture was printed in the magazine shortly after}).
     He was the only one with enough nerve to give Edgar Romig some Pop Rocks to try, with a straight face.
He also turned down Edgar's plea to light the candles when Donald reported to the Rector as the procession was lined up in the Parish Hall to proceed that the candles were not lit, saying, "I don't do candles." He quickly found someone who would do so.
     During a concert which the choir performed under James Buonemani, he was asked to turn pages for William Trafka ( from NYC) who was playing the organ for the concert. Donald does not read music, but he could follow the proper cues and made no mistakes.
All of this was going on during his 45 years as an Aerospace Engineer for NASA at the Goddard Space Flight Center.

Judy:
    Started attending Epiphany Easter 1956 and having been attending since, with timeout for years at Stanford (though I did start singing in the choir during Christmas break in 1960, when I was a junior)
    Married to Donald at Epiphany August 25, 1962
    Have been a member of the choir on a regular basis since Christmas 1961, after graduation.
    Member of the Young Adults for as long as it existed (we are about to have a reunion May 5)
    Organized the Sunday School Mothers to serve the Monday lunches during the Lenten Lunches which followed the very popular Lenten Services (I served during the early 1970's and we often served 125 or so)
    Was treasurer of the Women of Epiphany for several years in the 1970's, though I did not belong to one of the four chapters.
     Served on Andrew Archie's Seminarian Committee, as well as for Doug Greenway in early 1990's
     Member of Organist/ Choir Master search committees in 1987, 1995, and 2004
     Member of the Rector Search Committee 1993-94
     Member of the Vestry 1999-2002
     Head of Fellowship/Hospitality 1999-2003
     Member of Renovation Committee in the 1980's under Ford Chinworth
     Member of the Worship Committee for 3 years
     Lay Eucharistic Minister and Lay Reader from 1980's and continuing

Susan was born in 1965 and baptized 4 months later. Mary was born in 1968 and baptized in 4 months later, and married Michael Rusten at Epiphany September 29, 2002. They were both acolytes and crucifers, and Susan sang in the choir one year while in high school.

I haven't delved into my calendars, but these are the activities which come to mind. There were a number of memories which are not listed here, but they are too numerous to enumerate.

Episcopal Diocese of Washington’s Church House honors Mr. Barry Huber

Mr. Barry Huber receives recognition for his sterling volunteer work at Episcopal Church House. Barry came to us with a wealth of “church” knowledge, having served as Parish Administrator of All Souls Church (where he continues to volunteer), to provide coverage for a staff member on medical leave. Happily for us, he agreed to return at a time of staff transition. His calm and approachable demeanor and willingness to pitch in wherever needed could not be more supportive. As a first point of contact for people calling the diocese or walking through our front door, Barry is a welcoming presence who will go that extra step to be hospitable and helpful. During his tenure at Church House, he has trained additional volunteer receptionists, streamlined procedures at the front desk, and taken on additional responsibilities with characteristic good humor. Barry is a treasure.

Fellowship of St. John honors Mrs. Wilhelmina Walden

Wilhelmina Walton, a beloved fellowship member, is being honored for her volunteer service.
She was nominated this year by the Fellowship, where her spunk, spirit and loving presence inspires us.

Grace Episcopal Church, Silver Spring, honors Ethel Luckett

Ethel Holter Luckett, Grace Episcopal Church, Silver Spring Parish: Ethel Luckett, member of the Grace Church Silver Spring parish and the Pennyworth Thrift store ministry for almost forty years.
The Grace Church Silver Spring Parish family is happy to recognize Ethel Luckett as the Outstanding Senior volunteer for 2012.
Ethel Holter Luckett was born at Sibley Hospital, Washington, D.C. in 1934 to Henry and Dorothy Holter, both of whom were hearing impaired and devoted to the Episcopal deaf community. One of her earliest memories was attending St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C., where Father Otto Berg held services for hearing families in the Sunday mornings and hearing impaired families Sunday afternoons. Ethel’s father often served as a LEM during the services for the hearing impaired at St. Mark’s. The Holter family also attended St. Barnabas Mission to the Deaf where her mother served as the administrator for the Women’s group. Ethel graduated from Blair High School and attended Montgomery Community College. She married, became the mother of four sons and worked as a bookkeeper and accountant.

In 1972 Ethel divorced, chose to re-align with her faith and discovered Grace Episcopal Church, Silver Spring Parish. Ethel fell in love with the people that she met there including some wonderful ladies who worked with the parish thrift shop ministry, Betty Lou Day and Dale Caracci. Betty Lou and Dale were quick to welcome the newcomer into volunteer ministry for the parish thrift shop, Pennyworth. Ethel, Betty Lou and Dale became fast friends, but more importantly, Ethel became a dedicated member of the Pennyworth team and partnered with Dale in handling the sorting of items that are donated to the store. Once she stepped into the ministry, it became her ministry niche.
Today, while Ethel serves as the President for the business built up by her sons and is the proud grandmother of nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, one of her greatest loves comes from her ministry to Grace Church through the Pennyworth thrift shop. Ethel is committed to supporting the Pennyworth ministry of Grace church and is very proud of the value of this ministry within the parish and the Silver Spring community. She serves on the governing Board of the Pennyworth Shop and is responsible for the major behind-the-scenes ‘sorting and pricing’ activity, which is an important part of the Pennyworth thrift shop ministry. She, and a wonderful group of volunteers, spends several days each week preparing items for sale in the thrift shop.

Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Suejette Riley

Suejette has been a member of Holy Comforter for over forty-eight years. She is a retired DC Public School teacher. Sue (as she is best known) taught grades 1-6. At Holy Comforter she has been past President of the ECW, and held other ECW positions.   She has taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible.   Sue is in charge of the Altar Guild, participates in leading the Wednesday Bible Study, Evangelism Prayer Workshop, Slice of Life and the Senior Ministry Program. You may hear her saying to the Bible Study group “Take out your bible study books, pencil and paper”.

Sue likes to read, work crossword puzzles, go to movies and is very much interested in drama/ plays. It is a fact, that when you ask her to plan an activity, you can expect an educational experience and a surprise reward. She always brings a bag of goodies with her.

Holy Communion, Washington, honors John and Ramona Love

John and Ramona Love have served Holy Communion faithfully for over 50 years. He has been Junior Warden for the past five years at least. Even though he is in his mid 80’s, he was still cutting the grass around the church until the school started. He is the one who comes by every night to make sure the church is locked up and the alarm in set. He is the first one here on Sunday morning and makes the coffee for the congregation. He goes to our mail box and picks up the mail for the church. There is nothing that I have asked him to do that he hasn’t willingly done.
Ramona has been on the altar guild for most of her time in the parish. Also in her mid 80’s she washes and irons the linens of the church and is now head of the altar guild. She assumed that role on the death of Flossie Alers. She comes every Friday to set up for Sunday and when we have mid-week services she is there as well. She says she has been blessed in her life and this is how she says thanks to God by serving in the church. They are truly a couple in how they serve and how they model love for the other.
It is an honor to recommend them for this recognition.

Holy Trinity, Bowie honors Ed Bice

Church of Our Saviour, Brookland Parish, honors Imogene P. Stewart

Imogene Stewart has been member of the Church of Our Saviour, Brookland Parish, since 1965. She has served in many positions, helping to keep Our Saviour vibrant as Cub Scout Den Mother; the chair, Women of Our Saviour Telephone Tree; and the Director of the Altar Guild, where she still provides support and advice. Currently, she serves as a member of the vestry, serving as Assistant Treasurer and is a member of the Finance and By-Laws Committee. She is also a member of the comfort ministry where she crochets comfort blankets for women undergoing cancer treatment and members of the church who are sick or homebound. The extraordinary thing about Imogene is that she is an example of how reconciliation works. She is constantly reaching out to members who have left the church or have been away for a long time, reminding them of their importance to Our Saviour and has encouraged several to return to the fold. She works in the background, assisting in any way she can to ensure that Our Saviour is a full member in God's mission to the world.

Church of Our Saviour, Hillandale, honors Bernice and James F. Shook

Bernice Harris Shook
DIOCESAN ACTIVITIES
1983 – Elected At-Large member, DOW Council
1984 – Elected to Executive Committee of Council
1985 – Member of the Ad Hoc Committee on Racism
1986 – Appointed to 3 yr. term on Racism Commission
1989 – Appointed Asst. Secretary of the Convention
1993 - Appointed member Diocesan Stewardship Committee
1989 – 2009 – Four Times Delegate to DOW Conventions
Church of Our Saviour, Hillandale ACTIVITIES
1773 – Became member of COS
1974 - Served as Chairman of 3 Annual Bazaars, & Treasurer of the OP Shop (Thrift)
1978 –Became President of COS Women’s Board
1979 – Elected to Vestry for first time, then again in 1986 and 1992
1986 – Chairman, Finance Committee
1997 - Co-Chaired the Search Committee (Rev. Mark Pendleton)
2007 – Co-Edited the 50 Anniversary History of COS Booklet
2011 – Co-Chaired Fund Raiser (Rummage Sale)

JAMES F. SHOOK- History of Church Activities
Was Sunday school teacher, treasurer and Vestry member at various times in an Episcopal church in Ottawa, Illinois, Diocese of Chicago, 1956-1961
Came to COS in 1961
*Began teaching Sunday school that year
*Became Sunday school superintendent in 1964, and served for ten years
*We had over 200 students
Served with the following COS committees, groups, etc. at various times
*Vestry
*Building and Grounds
*Christmas tree sales
*Opportunity Shop
Was COS Associate Treasurer 1993-2007, and continue now as a recorder of contributions one week a month
Served three years on the Diocesan Stewardship Committee, probably in the mid-seventies
Was consultant to the Diocese on what to do with a bequeathed house in Virginia and another property located in Maryland, also in the 1970s

Church of the Redeemer, Bethesda, honors Mrs. Lee Shipman

Lee Shipman has been an active member of the Church of the Redeemer for 52 years. She was Redeemer’s first female lay reader. She still serves in this ministry, as well as being a leader of the Prayers of the People, and a greeter. Mrs. Shipman served as Redeemer’s lay delegate to diocesan convention for over ten years. She was a member of the search committee that led to the call of Redeemer’s current rector. An architect, she served on the expansion committee that shepherded the renovation and expansion of the church in 1999. For many years, Mrs. Shipman has been an advocate for Thanksgiving in February, an annual effort to raise money for hungry families in Montgomery County, Maryland.

Seabury at Friendship Terrace honors Ms. Mary Ann Hutton

Ms. Mary Ann Hutton has been a resident at Friendship Terrace for nearly 11 years. Born and raised in Takoma Park, Ms. Hutton has spent her life giving back to the Washington, DC community as an elementary school teacher and active volunteer. Her involvement in the community since retirement has anything but slowed.

At Friendship Terrace, Ms. Hutton is known as the “eyes and ears” and is often called upon by staff members with a variety of questions about the residents and community. She serves as a front desk volunteer, relieving staff by greeting guests, answering phones, and fielding questions. Ms. Hutton is also the enthusiastic organizer behind a number of resident-run programs, including Sunday worship services and Current Events, a twice monthly program where residents meet over tea to discuss recent news topics. Ms. Hutton also fulfills an essential role as Floor Host by welcoming new residents and introducing them to the community.
Ms. Hutton is an essential member of our community. Without her, Friendship Terrace would be missing a spirit, warmth, and kindness that radiates with her presence. We graciously thank her for her longtime service with us.

Seabury at Home First, Washington DC honors Vivian Adams

Mrs. Vivian Adams is a native Washingtonian. Her mother passed away when she was 6 years old and was raised by her grandparents and aunt/sister (who was only 11 years her senior). She received her Master's degree in Education at UDC, and worked in the DCPS system for seven years. She also served as a home tutor for several years. She loves variety of music and also sang on the Metropolitan Baptist Church Choir for over 20 years. She is a widow and has one son and eight grandchildren. Her husband was also an enthusiast of music (jazz and classical) and had a wonderful selection of albums willed to Howard University School of Music. She has been volunteering for over 40 years, where she served as a Sunday School teacher. Now at the early age of 88 years old, she is still volunteering. She serves on the Home First Advisory Council, and through AARP is learning to become a Senior Advocate and has testified twice at DC City Council's Budget Hearing. She attends Model Cities Wellness Center, is an avid walker, and enjoys sitting on her back porch watching the sunrise in the morning, being reminded of the miracle of being alive. She survived an almost fatal car accident in 2001. She is raising two grandchildren.
Seabury at Springvale Terrace, Silver Spring, honors Dr. Andrew Gaskins

Dr. Andy Gaskins is recognized for his many contributions to Springvale Terrace residential life. One of his generous gifts to residential life is a Wii with which residents enjoy bowling & watching movies. Dr. Gaskins is the Springvale Terrace newsletter photographer and facilitates several activities and programs for residents.   Residents and staff appreciate and love Dr. Gaskins for his
thoughtfulness, kindness and constant generosity.

Seabury at Ward 5 aging services honors Wendy Kenny

Ms. Wendy Kenney is our nominee for Ward 5. Ms. Kenney has volunteered at the Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired since 2005. She works with the seniors with Arts and Crafts and volunteers her time for trips with the Center. Wendy Kenney is a retired attorney whose career focused on federal government contracts and grants issues, first with the law firm of Hogan & Hartson, and later as an in-house attorney with companies including AT&T and Hewlett-Packard.

A graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center, Wendy served several terms on the Law Center’s Board of Visitors.  She was also was a founding member of the Georgetown Gilbert & Sullivan Society – “America’s only theater group with its own law school” – which is still going strong nearly 40 years later.  She has performed in, accompanied, or served as musical director for numerous theatrical productions, choirs, and other musical events.   A former member of the Choral Arts Society of Washington, she currently sings with Polyhymnia, a small chamber chorus based in Bethesda, Maryland.

Since 2006, Wendy has served as Board Chair for The American Century Theater in Arlington, Virginia, and recently participated as a member of the Steering Committee for the “Arlington Arts 2030 Study”, which made recommendations for local arts development over the next 20 years.  She is also on the Board of the Children’s Chorus of Washington, and volunteers with Seabury Resources for Aging’s Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Wendy lives in Potomac, Maryland with her husband Bob, who also recently retired from legal practice.  They have four grown children: Michael Kenney, who works as a consultant in Chicago; Kate Davenport, who is currently working toward a Masters in Social Work at the University of Maryland; Ellen Kenney, a second-year law student at UCLA; and Amanda Kirby, a web developer for USA Today.  They are also the proud grandparents of 2-year-old Gwendolyn Davenport.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal, College Park, honors Mary Lew Miller

St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Mr. Ramer Simpson

St. Columba’s has selected Ramer Simpson as our Parish Honoree for this year’s Senior Celebration. Ramer’s contributions to the regular life of the parish are too numerous to count! On Sunday mornings, he arrives at 5:00 a.m. to do the jobs of 5 people. We know this because that is how many people we need to corral to get his work done on the rare Sunday when he is not here. Ramer was the life force of the Shortbread Bakers Ministry until he retired this year and he has been a major contributor to the parish for decades with a wonderful institutional memory of people and events that have shaped our church over the years. All this he does by commuting from his home in Manassas, Virginia. Ramer celebrated his 80th birthday this past fall and we hope he is still going strong at 100! We are very pleased that he will be our Senior Celebration honoree this year.

St. George’s Parish, Washington, honors Anna Shelton

St. James, Potomac, honors Isabelle and Don Schuessler

St. James’, Potomac is pleased to honor Isabelle and Don Schuessler for their outstanding and tireless efforts to improve parish life and strengthen our parish commitment to service within our community and the world. Together, they have built and maintained a biannual rummage sale that not only raises funds for the church but makes clothing and household items available at bargain prices to individuals and families. This high-profile activity has been accompanied by quiet ministry to several parishioners whose health problems would otherwise keep them outside the parish community, representing a collection of helping acts unknown to most members.

For many years Isabelle was a leader in education for Episcopal youth, most recently as founder and first head of the Washington Episcopal School. Not content with a challenging paid job, she worked to help establish the St. James’ Children’s School, serving children from infancy through kindergarten. She led a capital campaign and other fund-raisers to improve and expand church facilities, and has served as Chair of the Facilities Commission and vestry member. Looking beyond the parish, she has always worked to maintain our presence in missions and outreach, and we look forward to the successful outcome of a partnership with a church and school in Haiti in which she was instrumental.

Don, an engineer by profession, has applied his considerable skills and energy in many ways. He is well-known for finding plants of the highest quality for church sales, and works year-round on the afore-mentioned “biannual” rummage sale, finding transportation and storage for objects from homes that would otherwise be liquidated and posting especially desirable items in venues such as Craig’s List and e-Bay. For many years Don has been one of the leaders of a Wednesday morning men’s prayer and breakfast group. His pruning and gardening skills are legendary, and “his” table at coffee hour is always populated by people eager to enjoy his humor and fellowship.

St. John’s (ZION Parish), Beltsville, honors Mr. Norm Jacob

Norm Jacob is St. John’s senior warden; He is also a Boy Scout leader and volunteer at Washington Home and Hospice on the hospice side

St. John’s Episcopal, Mount Rainier, honors Mrs. Florian Knights

Florian Knights is a longtime member of the congregation of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Mount Rainier, Maryland, having joined the church in 1981. During her membership here, Flo, as she is affectionately called, has served in various capacities, and currently is a Sunday School Teacher, a position that she has held for several years. She has also served as a Vestry member and as Senior Warden for two terms. Flo is a very active member of the E.C.W. and The Daughters of the King organizations, and a regular participant of the Wednesday Night Prayer Group here at St. John’s. Even though Flo has some physical limitations, yet, every week she comes here to the church to pack groceries for the less fortunate members of our community, and about four times each year she prepares at least one dish (enough to feed a minimum of 50) as her contribution to the feeding arm of the Church’s Outreach Ministry.

Based on the above, I hereby commend Florian Knights as our 2012 Parish Honoree.

St Luke’s Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Viola Locker

It is with great pleasure that we the members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Washington DC, submit the name of Viola Locker to be recognized for outstanding service as a volunteer.
Viola Locker has been a faithful and devoted member of St. Luke’s for more than 50 years and she continues to serve with distinction. The following services of Viola’s involvement will illustrate the reason she is deserving of recognition:
She was a member of St. Luke’s Choir for more than 50 years
She continues to render pastoral care by frequent visitations to the shut-ins in homes and          hospitals
She has served as a Eucharistic Lay Minister since 1997.
She is coordinator of activities and planner of events for the Tuesday Mid-Day Activities Senior                 Group
She coordinates the monthly distribution of food to Capitol Commons, a residence for
mentally and physically challenged seniors.
She assists all guilds of the church in the fulfillment of their ministries.

St.Margaret's honors Maude Katzenbach

Maude has served our church faithfully as a Vestry representative and Sr. Warden. A graduate of EFM, Maude has also served in various pastoral care initiatives and continues to be a pastoral and loving presence in our community.

St Mark’s Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Jane Miller

Jane visits shut-ins, often bringing them homemade soup. She maintains a registry of who in the parish has walkers, wheelchairs, bath seats and other paraphernalia for people recovering from surgery on knees and hips. She brings food to any potluck event. This year, she is one of the co-chairs of the “Third Agers” who organize activities for seniors in the congregation. She also chaired the group which provides volunteers to answer the phone in the church office so callers don’t get an answering machine.

St. Mary’s Court honors Mr. George Springmann

From the beginning, 12 years ago when he moved into St. Mary’s Court, George Springmann has continuously contributed his time and energy to the residents, staff and neighbors of St. Mary’s Court. George, who is a senior himself living at St. Mary’s Court, is our go-to man for all errands, big and small. He picks up medications for other residents, escorts them to medical appointments, grocery shops for them and helps neighbors of St. Mary’s Court with organizing their homes and doing errands for them. On a daily basis you see George heading out on one mission or another no matter what the weather from morning until late in the evening. He is the staff’s right hand man making runs to the post office, the hardware store to make extra keys or picking up last minute supplies. He is recognized and welcomed by all the neighborhood merchants, by the staff of doctor’s offices and pharmacies and needs no introduction. Plus he performs his volunteer work always with a smile and a pen in his pocket ready to take down your request. George is truly a special person who chooses to brighten the lives of those around him with his volunteer service.

St. Mary Magdalene, Wheaton, honors Mrs. Beverly Collins

On Sundays at St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church, Wheaton, you will hear the beautiful and grace-filled l soprano voice of one of the founding members of the Sounds of the Spirit choir. (Sometimes, she even sings solos in Spanish!) We all fondly call her by her first name, Beverley.
Beverley is very active in the church life and ministries at St. Mary Magdalene. A servant leader, she can be found in the church office on alternating Saturdays, answering the phone, and helping to fold bulletins for church service.

Beverley has been an active member for many years in our parish chapter of the Daughters of the King, a ministry focused on spiritual deepening, evangelism and service. Presently Beverley serves as the President of that ministry. A co-chair of our Seminarian Committee from July 2011-December 2011, a member of the Dinner Dance committee, the St. Mary Magdalene Gift Shop Fund Raising Committee, the Kitchen Committee, and the Women’s Group, Beverley’s prayerful foundation enriches others through her wise counsel and collaborative leadership. She has served on the Vestry as Fellowship Chair, Outreach Chair, and most recently as chair of Gifts, Memorials and Bequests. She is also past President of our International Council.

In addition to service oriented ministry, Beverley shares her creativity widely for many parish celebrations and is a faithful friend to many people. She is a humble and supportive leader who strives to live her baptismal promises in all areas of her life. We are truly blessed to have Beverley in our midst, as she demonstrates true stewardship in giving of her time and talent in service to her church community.

We thank Beverley Collins for her commitment in so many areas of our church life through the years, and we recognize her spirit of service to do God’s work here at St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church, Wheaton Parish with hearts full of gratitude for all that she is and does.

St. Matthew’s Hyattsville, honors George and Jane Purcell

George and Jane Purcell have always been willing to use their time and talents for the benefit of St. Matthew’s.
George Purcell has attended St. Matthew’s for 40 years. During that time he has been an invaluable member of the congregation and its leadership. George has served one term on the vestry, two terms as Junior Warden and many years as Treasurer. In addition, he has always been a member of the Property Committee and has served as Property Chairman.

George works wherever he is needed at St. Matthew’s. He helped with the rectory rehabilitation eleven years ago to prepare it for the new rector and did it again recently after the rector’s departure. He is the only male member of the Altar Guild and since his retirement has found the time to substitute in the church secretary’s absence. On Sundays, he can be found in the narthex working as an usher.

George Purcell is and has been the “go-to-guy” for most things at St. Matthew’s. If there is a problem with the boiler, the lights, the sound system, the air conditioner, the stove, the dishwasher, everyone knows to “Call George”.

Jane Purcell has also attended St. Matthew’s for forty years. During that time she has been a valued member of the congregation and leadership of the church. Jane served two terms on the vestry, was a member of the Altar Guild for 30 years and has been Directress of the Altar Guild for 12 years.

She has sung in the choir for 28 years, served 12 years as a Sunday School Teacher and is a member of the Gifts and Memorial Committee. Jane was the Chair for the St. Matthew’s 175th anniversary celebration and for The Rev. Tom Dixon’s retirement celebration. She has baked and decorated cakes for various church celebrations and she also helped with the rectory rehabilitation 11 years ago.

The People of St. Matthew’s are blessed to have Mr. and Mrs. Purcell as members of the parish and are pleased to show their gratitude by honoring them at this service.

St Nicholas, Darnstown honors Mrs. Rose Mahan

Rose Mahan has almost single-handedly continued a ministry to older adults at the Shady Grove Nursing Home in Gaithersburg, Maryland, from her expansive heart and loving spirit. Almost every Sunday, Rose is the Lay Eucharistic Minister who takes communion from the reserved sacrament to residents at the nursing home. A committed, enthusiastic, and productive volunteer at St. Nicholas Episcopal Church, Darnstown, MD, Rose is a strong advocate for the seniors in our congregation and the Darnstown/Gaithersburg community. She has a vibrant and visible faith.
At St. Nick’s, Rose is a Co-Chair of the Outreach Committee. She is also a member of the Worship Committee. At some of the services, Rose serves as a Lector and Chalicist. She and her husband Ron usually attend the Sunday evening service at 5pm where Rose is the lay Officiant. She is an active participant in any activity at St. Nick’s that needs a helping hand: she launders the altar linens and acolyte robes; she works in the church office weekly as a volunteer; she assists with hospitality by laundering table cloths.

Not only has Rose volunteered at the Shady Grove Nursing Home for more than eight years, she has broadened her ministry through her involvement at Kentlands Manor, the senior housing complex in Gaithersburg where she and Ron are residents. If someone needs help at Kentlands Manor, he or she contacts Rose! Rose is always willing and happy to serve and gives hundreds of hours annually. Rose repairs a toilet or drives to a doctor’s appointment or simply brings a card, always with a smile, when someone is ill.

A reminder that our differences are far outweighed by what we have in common, Rose serves as a bridge between faiths. For five years, Rose has been a Senior Beacon at the Lutheran Home where she has been assigned a person to whom she writes friendly notes weekly and whom she remembers on special occasions. She encourages understanding and mutual respect in those around her, whatever their faith. A vivid example of the love, compassion and care of Christ for all people, Rose is the embodiment of the Gospel: “I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirst and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you come to me…Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me – you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:35-36, 40)

For these reasons, I enthusiastically submit Rose Mahan of St. Nicholas Episcopal Church Darnestown to be recognized by the Diocese of Washington and Seabury Resources for Aging at the annual service honoring the contributions of older adults to the parish, the Diocese and community.

St Paul’s Episcopal Church, K Street honors Mrs. Jean Litwin.

Jean Litwin, a nurse by training and a longtime member of St. Paul's Parish, has provided volunteer services over many years in the faithful care of the elderly and home-bound, and at her own expense.

Some highlights of that "care" include: setting up bags for our Saturday and Sunday food distribution to the homeless through our Grate Patrol Ministry; traveling hundreds of miles visiting our shut-ins and spending countless hours, reading the scriptures, shopping and doing laundry; following up through telephone contacts; and organizing Bible study groups. She has continued this "care" even while dealing with her own medical needs.

Jean is a licensed Eucharistic minister and lay reader; is an oblate of St. Gregory's Abby and follows a Rule of Life; and she makes her own greeting cards, having sent hundreds of them for birthdays and other occasions. On the back of the card she has her own "signature" statement: "When I care enough I make it myself."

St Peter’s Episcopal Church in Poolesville MD honors Mr. Jack Davis

St. Peter’s is proud to submit Jack Davis as our senior honoree for 2012.
Jack, an eighty-seven year old, has been a life-long parishioner of St. Peter’s. In that time he has been a member of the Vestry for over thirty years. Within that period he has been senior warden for twenty and has also served as Junior Warden.

He was a member of the church search committee on two occasions. The first resulted in finding Reverend Steve Heyward and the second he was on the search committee for Reverend Tom Purdy. He has served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years. He has also served as Superintendent of the Sunday School and has been a regular volunteer in many of our fundraising and community service programs including our two annual rummage sales, preparation of summer VBS, pancake dinners, grounds cleanup, community dinners, etc.

For his longstanding dedication to St. Peter’s we are pleased to celebrate his service in 2012.

St. Philip the Evangelist, Anacostia, honors Mr. Donald Cryer

It gives me great pleasure to nominate Mr. Donald Cryer of St. Philip the Evangelist Church as a 2012 Senior Celebrations Honoree. He is prayerful, steadfast and devout in his service to the Lord, and he works tirelessly for the betterment of St. Philip, its ministries and the community.

Mr. Cryer serves as Senior Warden of the church and in this capacity, he acts as liaison between the rector and the congregation. His reach extends to other ministries within the church as well. Recently, Mr. Cryer began chairing a new committee established to review and refine the church’s goals and objectives, and devise ways to enhance the mission of the parish. He leads the Joshua Project, an inter-generational group whose members engage in Bible studies and sponsor various outreach programs in the Anacostia community. He also leads the adult Bible Studies group that meets on Wednesdays and Sundays. For many years, Mr. Cryer has also led Bible discussions on Wednesdays during the Lenten season. In addition, Mr. Cryer is a member of both the Senior and Gospel choirs at the church. He serves as a Licensed Eucharistic Minister and enjoys visiting the sick and shut-ins.

It is evident from the multiple tasks he performs that Mr. Cryer’s commitment to the church’s mission is unparalleled and immeasurable. He is a quiet worker who does not seek public recognition, and his enthusiasm in doing the work of the Lord is infectious. Mr. Cryer’s devotion can be surmised in the Book of Proverbs: “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men” (Proverbs 22: 29).
For his many contributions to St. Philip, I highly recommend Mr. Cryer to receive this year’s Senior Celebrations award.

St. Philip the Evangelist honors Stefan Washington (posthumously)

I wish to nominate Stefan Williams of St. Philip the Evangelist Church as a 2012 Senior Celebrations Honoree, posthumously. His leadership was admirable, and his love of the church was infectious. It was my hope that Mr. Williams, if honored, would be present at the award ceremony but unfortunately, he passed away on Saturday, April 21, 2012.

Although he has transitioned, Mr. Williams’ passion and commitment to St. Philip will be remembered for years to come. The annals of the history of St. Philip would be incomplete without noting the many years of volunteer service Mr. Williams gave to the church, in various capacities, including “Special” Licensed Eucharistic Minister (LEM) to the Rector, LEM and acolyte trainer, confirmation class leader, Sunday school teacher, and children and youth group director.

Mr. Williams’ knowledge of the Episcopal liturgy made it easy for me to officiate at Sunday and special services. Similarly, as church administrator, Mr. Williams was conversant with all aspects of the church’s operation. He was known as the volunteer who carried a chain of keys around his neck to each door of the church, a symbol of his authority. He also served as a resource person to the parishioners who had tremendous confidence in his ability to respond to their concerns.
During his tenure as one of the church’s lay leaders, Mr. Williams took on a number of special projects such as noonday Bible study on Fridays. For many years, the sessions were comprised of a small group of members who were guided by Mr. Williams in navigating the contours of the Bible with passion and enthusiasm.

Additionally, Mr. Williams was well-known in the Anacostia community where he fostered close collaboration between St. Philip’s church and Saint Teresa Roman Catholic Church in the blessings of the palms on Palm Sunday and the celebration of the Stations of the Cross in the neighborhood on Good Friday.

Mr. Williams’ commitment to St. Philip was unquestionable. This phenomenon is underscored by General William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, who was asked about the secret of his amazing Christian life. Booth answered, “I told the Lord that he could have all that there is of William Booth.” I am certain that if Mr. Williams was still alive, he would have expressed the same sentiment and said, “I told the Lord that he could have all that there is of Stefan Williams.”
For these reasons, I heartily nominate Mr. Williams as a 2102 Senior Celebrations Honoree. May his soul rest in peace.

St. Philip’s Baden honors Mrs. Edna Jones
St. Philip’s Parish, Laurel, honors Betsy Brothers
Past Ministries and Activities
Sunday School Teacher
Editor of Parish Newsletter
Vestry Member for 2 terms
Member, Worship Committee
Member, Small Suppers Group
Member, Quilting Ministry
Member, Women of St. Philip’s Rummage Sale Committee
Coordinator, Funeral Receptions
Current Ministries
President, Afternoon Guild
Coordinator, Altar Guild
Chairperson, Women of St. Philip’s (WOSP) Craft Group
Chairperson, Holly Days Bazaar
Chairperson, WOSP Annual Crafts and Bake Sale
Chairperson, Harvest Tea

St Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Jack S Bailey

Jack S. Bailey, born May 19, 1930 in Thomasville, GA, is the oldest of six children born to Samuel Bailey, a mail carrier, and Mabel Bailey, a nurse. Jack graduated from Douglas High School in 1948. He obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Science from Hampton Institute in 1952 and a Master’s Degree in Microbiology from Howard University in 1960. Jack was once described as a gifted athlete, excelling in four sports, who was pursued by several colleges during his youth. At the same time, he liked singing and would often enter singing contests as either a bass or a tenor, sometimes both at the same time.

In 1948, Jack enrolled in Hampton Institute, now Hampton University. Singing in the Concert Choir was a joy, especially since he met his future wife, LaVerne Fortune. They married in 1953 and made Washington, DC their home. Their union produced four children, seven grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. After graduating from college in 1952, Jack spent two years in the military as a medic stationed at Fort Leonardwood, Missouri.

In 1954, Jack enrolled at Howard University and George Washington University but received the Master of Science Degree from Howard University in 1960. He moved to the medical school at GW to take a faculty appointment in the Arthritis Institute and later traveled throughout the country giving talks on his research.

During the middle 1960s and early 1970s, Jack’s entire family joined or attended St. Timothy’s. During this time more than now, rebuilding, repairing, painting, and renovating, was a big responsibility that he and the men embraced with fervor. Today, he continues to sing in the Chancel Choir and serves as a member of MOST.

Transfiguration Parish in Silver Spring, MD, honors Elton King and Rosemary Marucci

Elton King has served as organist of Transfiguration for 30 years this coming June. His is a wonderful example of Christian discipleship
Rosemary Marucci has just finished reading the bible daily for the past 7 years. Rosemary is always ready to lend a hand in the office and does it with such a joyful and wonderful spirit. She is a wonderful example of Christian discipleship.

Trinity Episcopal Church, Washington, honors Mrs. Mabra Barge and Mr. Charles Deboe

Washington National Cathedral Congregation honors Sid and Carol Hurlburt