The Morning News article highlighted Alston’s taking first place in the classical portion of the Youth America Grand Prix competition and that she has been accepted to attend the prestigious Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia on a merit scholarship.

“We are so proud to have a member of our parish family honored as Alston has been,” said our rector, The Rev. Michael S. White.  “She does a tremendous job as one of our acolytes and is well liked by everyone.  Even with the recognition she receives for her tremendous accomplishments, she remains humble and is a true joy to be with always.”

Alston’s father Frank was recently elected to a three year term to serve on Christ Church Episcopal’s vestry and her mother, Mary-Margaret, helps with the church’s youth program.   “Both of our daughters have been blessed with talent and ambition to be the best that they can be,” the Macgills said. “They also enjoy being acolytes and participating in the overall life of this wonderful church. What more could we ask for!“

Bishop Benhase is senior trainer in the Church Development Institute, which promotes a structured system for the development of leadership and organizational tools and skills, whereby we can become more “competency oriented and community centered.” Trust development, truth telling, and inclusion are important to him, as well as conflict resolution and building relationships. He plans to offer CDI training to our diocesan leadership, both clergy and lay, in the very near future. Let us respond graciously to this new initiative as he seeks to facilitate a dynamic Christian discipleship.

He also is an able 21st century communicator. He sends frequent e-mail messages, both pastoral and homiletical, to his clergy, appropriately entitled “eCrozier.” They are both wise and helpful. These contacts assist the clergy in understanding his vision and goals, and in becoming close to our bishop.

Bishop Benhase will take his place amongst our Synod bishops, the House of Bishops, and future Lambeth Conferences, where he will receive assignments fitting his skills and interests. Support him regularly with your prayers and partnership in the Gospel.

+H.W. Shipps
The Right Reverend Harry W. Shipps,
Eighth Bishop of Georgia (retired)

An enthusiastic crowd of over 100 enjoyed the fellowship, Reeves Outdoor Catering oysters and, of course, our sacred and world famous St. Comer’s chocolate chip cookies.

This grand celebration was held at Cedar Bluff, the beautiful home of Isabella & Jerry Reeves, on the banks of the Okatie River in South Carolina .

“It could have not been a more perfect day. The love and joy of our congregation and of the Holy Spirit shone throughout the afternoon” said Michael White, our rector.

“This is a really awesome place and these cookies are great!!” said one 10 year old as he happily munched on his 4th Comer’s Cookie!

Once again, we thank Isabella and Jerry Reeves and our Church Mothers, led by Ann Miller and Mimi Jones, for a glorious day at Cedar Bluff.

Christ Church has had a long history of hosting altar flower workshops and many past altar guild members have participated in several noted programs including those offered at the National Cathedral in Washington , D.C.

Said one participant,  “This was an incredible experience. Clare and Wayne are true artists and believe in giving their best to God.  The way they combine flowers and foliage to create such a beautiful arrangement is inspiring…and they make it look so easy.”

After taking the audience through the principles of floral design including the need for balance, proportion, scale, rhythm and contrast, Ellis and Willis then provided an overview of additional elements to create an arrangement which aspires to represent the glory of God.

“What Clare and Wayne are able to do with flowers deepens the worship experience immensely,” said Father Michael S. White, rector. “The care with which they create such beautiful arrangements is an important gift to our Lord and our congregation.”

Ellis’ and Willis’ completed arrangement was used by our church at its service on February 7, the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany.

“We are so blessed to have these members serve as officers of our church,” said Father White.  “All of them are committed Episcopalians who have devoted themselves to answering God’s call of service to others.  We also welcome Mimi as our new junior warden. She epitomizes grace and dignity, and her leadership will undoubtedly carry us forward as we continue to grow and prosper.”

Jones is a life-long Episcopalian who has been a member of Christ Church for 50 years. She and her husband Jack have three grown children and nine grandchildren.

Said Jones, “I am humbled by the confidence placed in me by our rector and vestry and will do all that I can to support the life and ministry of our church.  The Episcopal Church and Christ Church Episcopal have such a rich history and heritage, and we are privileged to be a part of a wonderful and giving congregation.”

The vestry also welcomed Frank S. Macgill and Theodora L. Gongaware, M.D. to their first meeting as vestry members.   Macgill is the managing partner at Hunter, Maclean, Exley & Dunn, P.C. and specializes in estate planning, corporate and tax law.  Dr. Gongaware is a retired physician and is a past chairman of the Garden Clubs of America.