Welcome to St. John’s Episcopal Church, Lafayette Square.
All who seek God are welcome at God’s table.
Nursery Care is available from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Hay-Adams Hotel.
Hearing assistance devices are available from the Ushers.
VOLUNTARIES
(1902-1986)
(1947-2015)
The St. John’s Choir
I worship and adore the true and living God, who created all things.
-Alban, Martyr (d. c. 304 AD)
A Jubilant Song René Clausen
(b. 1953)
Make a song. O to make the most jubilant song.
The joy of our spirit is uncaged, my soul it darts like lightning.
We sing to the joys of youth and the joy of a glad lightbeaming day.
Our spirit sings of a life full of music, full of concord, of harmony.
O to have life, a poem of new joys;
O to have life! New life, new joy.
O to have joy! O to make the most jubilant song.
To shout, to leap and dance, to be of the sky,
to be of the sun and moon, flying clouds as One with them.
O to make the most jubilant song.
-Walt Whitman (from A Song of Joys)
HYMN 688 A mighty fortress is our God
Sung by all. Please stand as the procession enters.
The Reverend Dr. Luis León
Rector
Assistant Rector
Kaye Edwards
Ministry and Organist
THE WORD OF GOD
Please continue to stand.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia, alleluia!
Celebrant: Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no
secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy
Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name;
through Christ our Lord.
Sung by all.
Gloria in excelsis Deo et in terra pax hominibus bonae voluntatis.
Glory to God in the highest and peace to His people on earth.
THE COLLECT OF THE DAY
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Celebrant: Almighty God, on this day you opened the way of eternal life to every race and
nation by the promised gift of your Holy Spirit: Shed abroad this gift throughout the
world by the preaching of the Gospel, that it may reach to the ends of the earth;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the
Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
People: Amen.
Please be seated.
When the day of Pentecost had come, the disciples were all together in one place.
And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and
it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire,
appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled
with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them
ability. Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in
Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each
one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished,
they asked, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we
hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and
residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and
Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from
Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs-- in our own languages we hear
them speaking about God's deeds of power." All were amazed and perplexed,
saying to one another, "What does this mean?" But others sneered and said, "They
are filled with new wine." But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and
addressed them, "Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to
you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is
only nine o'clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet
Joel: `In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all
flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall
see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. Even upon my slaves, both men
and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy. And I
will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and
fire, and smoky mist. The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood,
before the coming of the Lord's great and glorious day. Then everyone who calls on
the name of the Lord shall be saved.'”
Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
ANTHEM Laudate Dominum Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
(1756-1791)
Tory Wood, soprano
Laudate Dominum, omnes gentes; laudate eum, omnes populi. Quoniam confirmata
est super nos misericordia ejus, et veritas Domini manet in aeternum. Gloria Patri et
Filio, et Spiritui Sancto, sicut erat in principio, et nunc et semper et in saecula
saeculorum. Amen.
O praise the Lord, all ye nations; praise him, all ye people. For his merciful
kindness is great toward us, and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Glory be to
the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now
and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
-Psalm 117
THE SECOND READING Read by Nkem Onwuamaegbu. Romans 8:22-27
We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and
not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan
inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we
were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But
if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Likewise the Spirit
helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that
very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the
heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the
saints according to the will of God.
Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
LEVAS 120 (stanza 1) There’s a sweet, sweet Spirit
Sung by all, standing.
Copyright: Reprinted under Onelicense.net # A-701275.
Gospeller: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.
THE HOLY GOSPEL John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15
Jesus said to his disciples, ”When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you
from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my
behalf. You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning.
“I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. But
now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you
going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts.
Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do
not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.
And when he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and
judgment: about sin, because they do not believe in me; about righteousness,
because I am going to the Father and you will see me no longer; about judgment,
because the ruler of this world has been condemned. “I still have many things to say
to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide
you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he
hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me,
because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is
mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
Gospeller: The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.
LEVAS 120 (stanzas 2 and 3) There’s a sweet, sweet Spirit
Sung by all.
Please be seated.
Celebrant and People:
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only
Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came
down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from
the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under
Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose
again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated
at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living
and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit,
the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the
Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the
Prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We
acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the
resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE Led by Betsy Danello.
Please remain standing.
Leader: Gracious God, we thank you for giving us power through your Holy Spirit to reveal
your life to the world; strengthen, bless, and guide us to make you known by word
and example. We thank you for our companion relationships with the Anglican
Church of Southern Africa* and the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. In the
Diocesan Cycle of Prayer, we remember St. Augustine's Church, Washington.
We pray for Michael, our Presiding Bishop, for Mariann, Bishop of Washington,
and for all bishops and other ministers.
People: We are your Church, O God. Guide us in your grace.
Leader: We thank you for your creation, and pray for the earth which you have given us to
cherish and protect; nourish in us your love for all you have made.
People: We are your stewards, O God. Guide us in your grace.
Leader: Guide and bless us in our work and play, and shape the patterns of our political and
economic life; we pray for Donald, our President, the leaders of Congress, and the
Supreme Court, and all who are in authority; for the people of Afghanistan,
Hawaii, Syria, and Venezuela, that all people may be fulfilled through the bounty
of your creation.
People: We are your servants, O God. Guide us in your grace.
Leader: Awaken our hearts to your presence in all people: those we love easily and those
with whom we struggle, those different from us and those similar to us, those
familiar to us and those unfamiliar to us.
People: We are made in your image, O God. Guide us in your grace.
* In particular, the Kwasa Centre in the Diocese of the Highveld.
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Leader: We thank you for calling us to the glorious heritage of your holy people. Free us
from lack of vision, and from inertia of will and spirit. By your life-giving Spirit,
lead us out of isolation and oppression, redeem and restore us.
People: You are the life within us, O God. Guide us in your grace.
Leader: We thank you for the gift of life, with all its blessings and sorrows. Shield the
joyous, especially those who are celebrating a birthday this week, Karolina Arias,
Lyle Elder, Jim Garland, Vivian Hanniford, Charlotte Hantson, Susan Heil,
Elizabeth Holdefer, Caroline Huettner, McKenzie Jeffers, Nancy Klotz, Cynthia
Malinick, Abbott McCartney, Katie Montgomery, Harker Rhodes, Becky
Schergens, Leila Taaffe, Lilly Wall, and Paul Zehfuss; for those celebrating an
anniversary this week, especially Elizabeth Lewis and David Abernethy, Christina
and Matthew Berlin, Judy Campbell Bird and Coleman Bird, Grace and William
Duthe, Joanne and Powell Hutton, Sara and Bill Josey, and Jennifer Lehmann
Weng and Henrik Lehmann Weng. Comfort and strengthen those in any need or
trouble. Bless those who will be born today. Bless those who died, especially
Richard Mazzur who died May 8, that by joining with the company of all your
saints we may rejoice in one unending song of praise.
People: In you alone we have eternal life, O God. Guide us in your grace.
Leader: You have bound us together as priest and people to work for the advancement of
your kingdom in this place. We give you thanks for the ministry of Lu and Luis
León which we have shared at St. John’s Church, Lafayette Square.
People: We thank you for the work and witness of your servants, O God. Guide us in
your grace.
Celebrant: Abiding God, be with those who leave and with us who stay; and grant that all of
us, by drawing ever nearer to you, may always be close to each other in the
communion of your saints. All this we ask for the sake of Jesus Christ, your Son,
our Lord.
People: Amen.
THE PEACE
Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Please be seated.
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OFFERTORY ANTHEM
Commissioned by the Vestry of St. John’s Church, Lafayette Square, Washington,
D.C., in thanksgiving for the 24-year ministry of the Reverend Dr. Luis León
on the occasion of his retirement.
¡Aplaudan, Pueblos Todos! Gus Paul Chrysson
(b. 1985)
Luis Garay, Dave McDonald, and Tom Maloy, percussionists
Aclamen a Dios con voces de alegría
Aplaudan, pueblos todos!
Aplaudan, pueblos todos!
Aplaudan, pueblos todos!
Cántenle un himno de alabanza; Dios reina sobre las naciones; Dios se sienta en su
santo trono.
Acclaim (sing praises to) God with happy voices
Clap your hands, all you nations!
God is a great King in all the land
Clap your hands, all you nations!
God goes up with fanfares
Clap your hands, all you nations!
For the Lord the trumpets sound
Clap your hands, all you nations!
Sing a hymn of praise; God reigns over all the nations; God sits on his holy throne.
HYMN 424 For the fruit of all creation Sung by all, standing.
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Music: East Acklam, Francis Jackson (b. 1917) Copyright: Reprinted under Onelicense.net # A-701275.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
Please remain standing.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to
you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. In fulfillment of his true promise, the Holy Spirit
came down on this day from heaven, lighting upon the disciples, to teach them and
to lead them into all truth; uniting peoples of many tongues in the confession of one
faith, and giving to your Church the power to serve you as a royal priesthood, and
to preach the Gospel to all nations.
Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with
all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of
your Name:
The St. John’s Choir and the Parish Choir
Santo, santo, santo, Señor Dios del Universo! Llenos están los cielos y la tierra de
tu Gloria. Hosanna en las alturas! Bendito el que viene en el nombre del Señor.
Hosanna en las alturas!
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of the universe! Heaven and earth are full of Your
glory. Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the
Lord. Hosanna in the highest!
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Please stand or kneel.
Celebrant: Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself; and,
when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your
mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to
live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all.
He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself in obedience to your
will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.
On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took
bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his
disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this
for the remembrance of me.”
After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to
them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant,
which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink
it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:
Celebrant and People:
Christ has died.
Christ is risen.
Christ will come again.
Celebrant: We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, in this sacrifice of praise
and thanksgiving. Recalling his death, resurrection, and ascension, we offer you
these gifts.
Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of your
Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that
we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy,
and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your
eternal kingdom.
All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ. By him, and with him, and in him, in
the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and
for ever.
People: Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Celebrant: And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, we are bold to say,
Celebrant and People:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy
will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And
forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead
us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and
the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
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Celebrant: Alleluia, alleluia! Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us;
People: Therefore let us keep the feast. Alleluia, alleluia!
Celebrant: The Gifts of God for the People of God. Take them in remembrance that Christ
died for you, and feed on Him in your hearts by faith, with thanksgiving.
MUSIC AT THE COMMUNION
Anthems I know I’ve been changed arr. Damon H. Dandridge
(b. 1977)
Christopher Jones, soloist
I know I've been changed 'cause the angels in heaven done signed my name.
I prayed all night and I prayed all day too, I'll keep on praying till I come through;
yes, Lord, the angels in heaven done signed my name. I stepped in the water and the
water was cold. It chilled my body but not my soul. If you don't believe that I've
been redeemed, then follow me down to that Jordan stream. I know I've been
changed, yes, my Lord, 'cause the angels in heaven done signed my name!
Spirit Barbara Baker
Justin Dean, piano
Spirit, sweet holy spirit! Fall fresh on me. Fill me with the spirit of power divine
and cleanse me through and through. Oh, cover me Lord with the holy fire and burn
my troubles too. Spirit, sweet holy spirit! Fall fresh on me.
All are welcome to receive Holy Communion with us. Our tradition is to receive both
bread and wine, sharing in the common cup. Please assist the chalice bearer by guiding the
cup to your lips. You may also intinct by dipping the wafer into the chalice. During this
time when infectious diseases are a serious concern, you may wish to receive the
bread only. Receiving the bread only is a valid and acceptable way to share in Holy
Communion. After consuming the wafer, simply cross your arms over your chest to
indicate that you do not wish to receive the wine. Gluten-free wafers are available on
request from the communion minister.
If you are feeling sick, please refrain from receiving the wine and be mindful of those
near you when passing the peace or shaking hands as you enter and exit the church.
13
Sung by all.
Music: John D. Cooper
Hymn 516 Come down, O Love divine
Sung by all.
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Words: Bianco da Siena (d. 1434?); tr. Richard Frederick Littledale (1833-1890), alt. Music: Down Ampney, Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
Copyright: Reprinted under Onelicense.net # A-701275.
THE POST-COMMUNION PRAYER
Celebrant and People:
Almighty God, we thank you for feeding us with the holy food of the Body and
Blood of your Son, and for uniting us through Christ in the fellowship of your
Holy Spirit. We thank you for raising up among us faithful servants of your
Word and Sacraments. We thank you especially for the work of Luis and Lu
León among us, and for the presence of his daughters, Sofia and Emilia León.
Grant that both Luis and Lu and we may continue to serve you in the days
ahead, and always rejoice in your glory, and come at length into your heavenly
kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Celebrant distributes a communion kit to each Lay Eucharistic Minister saying:
Celebrant: On behalf of God and St. John’s Church, I send you forth bearing these holy gifts
that those whom you will visit may share with us in the communion of Christ’s
Body and Blood.
THE BLESSING
Celebrant: May the Spirit of God lead you into all truth, giving you grace to proclaim the
wonderful works of God; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit, be upon you and remain with you for ever.
People: Amen.
Sung by all, standing.
Music: Earth and All Stars, David N. Johnson (1922-1987)
Copyright: Reprinted under Onelicense.net # A-701275.
THE DISMISSAL
Celebrant: Alleluia, alleluia! Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit.
People: Thanks be to God. Alleluia, alleluia!
VOLUNTARY: Allegro (from Concerto for Organ and Percussion Orchestra) Lou Harrison
(1917-2003)
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THE ST. JOHN’S CHOIRS: Annette Anfinrud, Caroline Baxter, Barbara Burkhardt, Dena Goodman*, Whitley
Herndon, Elizabeth Holdefer, Julia Leonard, Diana Liao, Margaret Love, Kathy Luhrman, Alicia
Lumberry*, Quin Woodward Pu, Robin Taylor, Christina Wilson, and Tory Wood*, Sopranos;
Alison Adkins, Sarah Banks, Cay Buser, Annie Coffman*, Wendy Fibison, Sara Josey, Lisa
Koehler*, Katherine McClintic, LaFleur Paysour, Elizabeth Pennings, Louisa Waycott*, and Margo
Weigenstein, Altos; Philip Anfinrud, Craig Burkhardt, Noah Calderon*, Sammy Huh*, Nicholas
Levy*, Johnathon O’Neal, Tom Wade, and Alex Wilkins, Tenors; Justin Dean*, Christopher
Fominaya*, Christopher Jones*, Bill Josey, Daniel Sherwood, and George Taylor, Tyler Young,
Basses. (*indicates staff singers)
PERCUSSIONISTS: Luis Garay, Dave McDonald, and Tom Maloy.
ASSISTING AT THE 10:30 A.M. SERVICE TODAY: Will Huettner, Clergy Cross; Devin Urness, Crucifer;
Doug Estes, Sylvia Estes, Debby Hailey, and Isabel Tierney, Chalice Bearers; Sylvia Estes and
Stephen O’Shields, Greeters; Richard Price, Lay Eucharistic Minister; Paul Barkett and Joanne
Hutton, Flower Guild; Anthony Pegues, Assistant Head Usher; Matt Hallett, John Herzog,
Max Hudgins, Graham Keithley, Hap Rigby, and Randall Roe, Ushers.
THE FLOWERS IN THE CHURCH are given to the glory of God.
COFFEE WILL BE SERVED IN FRONT OF THE CHURCH following the 10:30 a.m. service, weather permitting.
A TOUR OF ST. JOHN’S CHURCH will be offered after the 10:30 a.m. service. If you are interested, please join Betty van Iersel at the pulpit following the service.
RECYCLING of Order of Service Bulletins paper is good stewardship. If you wish, please leave them at the
end of the pew after the service.
NOTES ON MUSIC
In addition to some of his favorite hymns and anthems, Luis’ request for his farewell service was for
music that is “loud” and “fun.” Adding percussion came to mind, since in the past Luis had shared
with me that the “Anglican Tradition” in music is not so much music from England, but music from
the Anglican Communion, thus world music. Percussion is mentioned in the Psalms – particularly the
ancient drum called the “timbrel” – and in many world religions is considered the most direct way to
speak to God.
St. John’s is fortunate to have three “in-house” percussionists who join services at different times of
the year for different occasions, though have never collaborated together until today. Luis Garay joined
us as percussionist for Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms last fall, Yankees fan Tom Maloy joins us each
year as percussionist for “Fife & Drum” Sunday and Easter morning, and Dave McDonald joins us
each year for the jazz service on the last Sunday of Epiphany.
Today’s postlude by American composer Lou Harrison, requires instruments made especially for the
“Percussion Orchestra” and give specific instructions on how to make them. We are fortunate to have
a brilliant engineer in the choir, Philip Anfinrud, who goes by the nickname “Radar,” who has made
the instrument of pitched hanging metal conduits supported by plumbers pipe, and the handheld Korean
clacker made of wood. Despite their appearance, the conduits have the round sound of temple bells
from South-East Asia. The pianist and organist often play with one and two-octave fists of wood called
“slabs” for blocked clusters of sound. This cacophony is intended to service as a musical form of
applause for someone who has taught all of us so much about music and the Church, Luis León.
–Michael Lodico, Director of Music Ministry and Organist
St. John’s Church, Lafayette Square
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(“Clap Your Hands, All you Nations”)
APT is a whimsical, capricious piece for mixed choir and percussion, with text extracted from Psalm
47. Although typically associated with Ascension Day, this text is appropriate for any festive occasion;
it is never a bad idea to applaud and acclaim the sovereignty of God's love, peace, and justice.
APT should be approached as a Latin American folk song accessible to all generations. Once the
repetitive refrain is learned, the piece is best rehearsed with a carefree and joyful spirit that properly
reflects its Caribbean musical influences.
APT is set in a slightly modified style inspired by the Cuban musical traditions (son, bolero, montuno,
guajira) of the 1940s that were introduced to me by my Costa Rican grandmother when I was a young
child. The harmonies are consistently simple, and the melody paints the words with little mystery. The
complexity and juiciness of this piece comes not from an esoteric or complex underlying use of music
theory, but from the potential for both interpretive freedom and excellent execution of its rhythmic
patterns.
–Gus Chrysson
Gus Chrysson is an American musician and educator of Greek and Costa Rican descent. He is a
sought-after clinician and presenter of master classes in the areas of liturgical music and practice, vocal
techniques, and Latin American song repertoire. From 2011 to 2014, Gus served as Director of Music
for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York City, which serves
as the national cathedral of the Greek Orthodox faith in the United States.
A noted linguist, Gus works to establish natural speaking and singing patterns for both native and non-
native speakers, drawing on his own diverse linguistic background and pedagogical training. His
linguistic work is featured in the Episcopal hymnal My Heart Sings Out, printed by Church Publishing
Inc.
Gus is presently Coordinator of the Music Companionship Programs for the Episcopal Diocese of
Cuba, and a full-time seminarian at Virginia Theological Seminary, studying for ordination to the
priesthood in the Episcopal Church.
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ON BEHALF OF THE RECTOR, WARDENS, VESTRY, AND ALL WHO SHARE IN THE GRACE OF GOD THROUGH
THE WORSHIP, MINISTRIES, PROGRAMS, AND OUTREACH OF ST. JOHN’S CHURCH,
WE THANK THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR PLEDGES FOR THE YEAR 2018
(as of May 16, 2018)
David Abernethy & Elizabeth Lewis
Gwendolyn Cunningham
Fruzsina Harsanyi & Raymond Garcia
Powell & Joanne Hutton
John Peters Irelan
Karen & Seth Jeffers
Stewart & Victoria Jeffries
Muriel Jerome-O’Keeffe
Denise Odaro & Jason Bolton
Jack Reiffer
STEWARDSHIP AS STRENGTH
“Give us reverence for the earth as your creation, that we may use its resources rightly in the service of
others and to your honor and glory.” (BCP, p. 388)
It is easy to celebrate God’s creation in May. Buds have opened, leaves have returned and birds have found
new voice. Washington in spring reminds us of the beauty and munificence of God’s blessings all around
us, gifts we have in our power to foster or slight. At this time of annual renewal, may we also renew our
commitment to nurture those gifts wisely, use them justly, and share them broadly. In so doing, may we
draw strength to use them in service to others throughout the year.
For those of you who have already pledged, our Committee and our Church thank you!
For a pledge card, please contact Evangeline Gravina, at 202-347-8766 ext. 301,
or by email at evangeline.gravina@stjohns-dc.org.
–The Stewardship Committee
ST. JOHN’S ONLINE PAYMENT PROCESS
In order to make online payments to St. John’s easier, we have instituted a new, streamlined process.
Payments for pledges and other types of donations can now be set up with an online payment profile at
https://www.shelbygiving.com/stjohnsdc by using your email address and creating a password. The password
should contain a combination of at least eight numbers and letters. Payment can be made through VISA,
MasterCard, Discover, and American Express cards as well as debit cards and echecks or ACH direct debits
from your account. Just select your preferred method of payment from the drop-down list. Select the fund
to which you wish to make a payment. A one-time payment can be executed this way, or automatic recurring
payments can be arranged by following the instructions for scheduled payments. The site also keeps track of
your payments. We encourage you to use this method of making payments and to let our financial secretary,
Preston Cherouny, know that you will switch to online payments at a certain date.
Payments can now also be made by texting to 202-335-0365. You will receive prompts on your device
screen for completing the process.
Please remember that this is a payment process, and St. John’s still wants to receive your pledge. Pledging
can be done online at our website. By making a pledge, parishioners are not only making a financial commitment to contribute a certain amount to St. John’s, but also are providing vital information to our Clergy
and Vestry needed to plan the budget. If you have questions, please call Preston Cherouny at the Church
Office, 202-347-8766.
Tuesday May 22
Sunday May 27
7:45 a.m. Holy Eucharist—Homily—The Rev. D. Andrew Olivo
9:15 a.m. Nursery (Hay-Adams Hotel)
10:30 a.m. Choral Holy Eucharist—Sermon—The Rev. D. Andrew Olivo
11:45 a.m. Hospitality Hour (Front of the Church)
1:00 p.m. Oracin Vespertina
The Holy Eucharist will be celebrated Monday through Friday at 12:10 p.m.
FINAL SUNDAY FOR THE REV. DR. LUIS LEÓN
TODAY, MAY 20, 2018
Today, the Rev. Dr. Luis León will preach and preside on his final Sunday as the 14th Rector of
St. John’s Church. The main celebration for the morning will take place during the 10:30 a.m.
service. Join us today as we celebrate Luis’ 24-years of faithful ministry at St. John’s Church.
RECTOR SEARCH COMMITTEE UPDATE
A survey that we hope every parishioner will complete is now live and accessible at stjohns-
dc.org/rector-transition. The survey will help to identify us as a parish - who we are and what we want
in a new Rector - and will be accessible until Monday, June 4. It is critically important that every
parishioner complete the survey so that we may have the benefit of everyone's views. For those without
access to the Internet, please contact Evangeline Gravina in the Parish Office at 202-347-8766 to
obtain a paper copy. Paper copies should be returned to her at 1525 H Street NW, Washington, DC
20005, likewise by the June 4 deadline.
In addition to the survey, there will be opportunities to provide further, in-person input at either of two
focus group sessions, both of which will be held in the church nave. The first will take place immediately
following the 10:30 a.m. service on Sunday, June 10 (nursery hours have been extended for parents of
young children). The second session will be at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 24. We expect each session
will last an hour.
Thank you in advance for your input during this very important part of the Rector search process. Please
continue to pray that that Holy Spirit guides us in the search for a new Rector.
The Rector Search Committee
SUMMER CHURCH SCHOOL STARTS JUNE 10
The last day of Church School for the regular program year
was May 13. Our Summer Church School will begin June 10
and meet through July 29 with our one-room class for grades
pre-K through five. Children will be learning lessons based on
a reading in church that day, and will play games, participate in
activities, and sing songs related to the day’s reading. Summer
Church School starts at 10:30 a.m. in the Hay-Adams
Hotel. Students will come in to church to join their families for
Communion. We need three teachers each Sunday. Please
let us know if you can teach at least one Sunday. We will
provide the curriculum and everything you need. If you are
interested in teaching, please email Kaye Edwards at
kaye.edwards@stjohns-dc.org.
• Today, May 20, following the 10:30 a.m. service: St. John's
Refugee Committee will meet at 910 15th St. NW (corner of
15th and I Streets NW.) Upon arrival, please call the
concierge, using the call box to the right of the gate, and tell
him you are attending the St. John's Refugee Committee.
Come learn about the exciting work the St. John's community
is doing to support refugees.
• Saturday, June 2: The One Journey Festival will take place
on the front lawn of the Washington National Cathedral on
Saturday, June 2. The festival will celebrate the culture and
courage of refugees through the shared languages of
humanity: art, fashion, food, music, and dance from the
countries that today’s refugees originally called home.
Festival organizers will use an innovative immersive video
experience to connect attendees with refugees living in
overseas camps. Please mark your calendars and contact
jesspulsifersanchez@gmail.com for more information
about attending or volunteering.
collecting diapers and baby clothes for an Afghan refugee
family. If you would like to contribute, please contact Gay
Pasley at glpasley@gmail.com for more information
about how and where to deliver items.
ST. JOHN’S COMMUNITY BUILDING EVENT
With the temporary loss of our Parish House space for our
Sunday Parish Lunches, we are organizing fellowship
opportunities on a neighborhood basis. These events will be
potluck suppers, brunches, and cocktail parties in the homes of
parishioners, or happy hours at local establishments, picnics, or
whatever our creativity leads to. If you are interested in
participating by hosting or organizing an event, please
contact Holly Sukenik at hsukenik@hotmail.com.
• Saturday, May 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.: Parishioner
Meredith Sullenger, who lives in Vienna, Virginia, is hosting
a casual potluck supper. Please contact Meredith at 703-
281-4161 or msullenger@mac.com for the supper event
at her home in Vienna by May 21. Space is limited, so the
first 25 responses will be welcomed to join the “party.”
OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY
The next food market at Hart Middle School (601 Mississippi
Ave. SE) will be on Thursday, May 31, from 3:00 p.m. until
6:30 p.m. Volunteers are needed to unpack and bag produce
and canned goods and to assist with the distribution. Carpooling
is available for those in need of transportation. Contact Livy
More at 202-291-8783 or at livezey@aol.com for more
details.
Ilona Kubiaczyk-Adler, organ with the United States Air Force Strings
Music by Women Composers, including Margaret
Sandresky’s Dialogues for Organ and Strings Please consider joining us during your lunch break for this last
concert of the program year and until the series resumes in
October, and bring a friend. See full season details on the
church website at www.stjohns-dc.org. Each concert is
ticketless, free of charge, and held in the nave of our historic
church.
601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Join us for the final Latrobe Fellowship before our summer
break. We will gather at 601 Pennsylvania Ave NW for a
rooftop celebration of the Holy Eucharist followed by dinner
and fellowship. The entrance to the building is between the Cosi
and PNC Bank, and upon arrival tell the front desk attendant
that you’re headed to the roof for a St. John’s event. For more
information, please contact the Rev. Andy Olivo at
andrew.olivo@stjohns-dc.org. All are welcome!
ST. JOHN’S BOOK GROUP
Thursday, June 7, 6:45 p.m.
The St. John's Book Group will meet on June 7 at 6:45 p.m. The
next meeting date and books is as follow:
June 7: The Evangelicals: The Struggle to Shape America
by Frances FitzGerald.
If you like to read and meet with others who like to read and
talk about books, the Book Club is for you. The meetings will
be held at 910 15th Street, NW, on the west corner of 15th
and I Streets NW. When you arrive, please call the concierge,
using the call box to the right of the gate, and tell him you are
attending the St. John's Book Group. Once you enter, the
concierge will unlock the elevator, and you will proceed to the
second floor. If you have questions or would like more
information, please contact Leila Taaffe at
taaffel@gmail.com.
9:15 a.m. Nursery
Summer Church School (June 10-July 29)
1:00 p.m. Oracin Vespertina
Holy Comforter St. Cyprian Church
1357 East Capitol Street, SE
Washington Interfaith Network (WIN) congregation members
will come to gather to raise awareness about affordable
housing, equitable development, jobs, and immigrant defense
with the candidates for D.C. Council Chair. Current Council
Chair Phil Mendelson and Candidate Ed Lazere will be in
attendance to join the discussion. For more information
contact parishioner John More at morej1@mac.com or
Alison Dunn Almaguer at alison@windc-iaf.org.
MARCH WITH ST. JOHN’S IN
THE CAPITAL PRIDE PARADE
Saturday, June 9, 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Join the St. John’s contingent as we march in the Capital Pride
Parade. The Parade is sponsored by the Capital Pride Alliance
to celebrate and support the diverse LGBT communities and
friends. All are welcome!
Washington, DC.
DC.
Metro: Red Line (Dupont Circle – Q Street Exit).
T-shirts with St. John’s logo in women’s and men’s sizes are
available for $10.00 each. For more information and to let us
know you will march with the St. John’s contingent, please
contact Anthony Pegues at apegues79@yahoo.com. Parade
details will be given closer to the date of the parade. Please also
let Anthony know by May 20 if you would like to order a T-
shirt.
with the clergy are as follows:
Baptism on Sunday, June 10, at 10:30 a.m.;
class on Sunday, June 10, at 9:00 a.m.
If you are interested in having a child baptized, or in baptism
for yourself, please contact Kaye Edwards at
kaye.edwards@stjohns-dc.org. Please note that the parents or
grandparents of children being baptized must be active,
pledging members of St. John’s. Adults interested in baptism
for themselves must attend St. John’s Adult Inquirers’ Class
and be active, pledging participants in the life of the parish.
VISITING CHOIRS
Sundays, June 10 and June 17
In June, St. John's will welcome two visiting choirs to enrich
our worship.
• June 10: The Genesis Youth Choir will join the St. John's
Choir for the 10:30 a.m. service. Based out of Highland Park
Presbyterian Church in Dallas, Texas, the choir is comprised
of youth from throughout the greater Dallas area.
• June 17: GenOUT Chorus will join the St. John's Choir for
the 10:30 a.m. service. Affiliated with the Gay Men's Chorus
of Washington DC, GenOut is the area's first vocal ensemble
for LGBTQ+ youth and allies. Members represent sixteen
different schools throughout greater DC.
LISTEN AGAIN TO SUNDAY SERMONS
If you missed a Sunday at St. John’s Church or would like to
listen again to past sermons or adult forums, you can visit the
St. John’s website and click on the “Media” tab at the top of the
page to listen. You can also find past sermons by searching for
“St. John’s Church, Lafayette Square” in the Podcast app on
your iPhone or iPad.
JOIN THE SUMMER CHOIR!
Singers, whether experienced or not-so-experienced, are invited
to sing in the choir on Sunday mornings at St. John's from
Sunday, June 24 through Labor Day Weekend. Members of
both the St. John's Choir and the Parish Choir will be on hand
to lend their voices as well, and you may sing for one Sunday
or all Sundays. With the exception of June 24th when we will
rehearse across the street at the Hay-Adams, the rehearsal
begins at 9:30 a.m. sharp each Sunday morning in the church,
to prepare for the 10:30 a.m. service. Please be in touch with
Michael Lodico at michael.lodico@stjohns-dc.org if you are
interested in singing in the Summer Choir or to talk about
the program.
Would you enjoy welcoming visitors to Sunday services?
Helping new parishioners feel comfortable in the congregation?
Exchanging morning greetings with old and new friends in the
parish? Then please join the Welcome Team Ministry and
become a Greeter for the 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. service.
Greeting requires only a short time before and after the service
and is important to the continued growth and health of St.
John’s Church. For more information about becoming a
greeter, please contact Head Greeter Robin Anderson at
finsandgators@aol.com.
January 2019
St. John’s Church has the opportunity to take a
pilgrimage to the Holy Land from January 13-25, 2019.
Over the course of the 10-day trip, pilgrims will
thoroughly explore the Holy Land. Highlights include
visits to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho, Nazareth, the
Jordan River, Capernaum, and many other places and
experiences.
The cost for the land portion of the trip is $2600 and
includes accommodations in a double room, all meals,
transportation in Israel via deluxe bus, entrance fees,
and tips for guest house/restaurant staff/bus drivers.
Each pilgrim is also responsible fo airfare to Tel Aviv.
In order for the trip to happen, we will need at least
20 pilgrims to commit. To sign up for the pilgrimage
or to get more information, please contact the Rev
Andy Olivo at andrew.olivo@stjohns-dc.org.
Whether acquiring a new skill or expanding on an existing
talent, being a member of the Flower Guild is a rewarding way
to volunteer at St. John’s. Newcomers are paired with
experienced members who mentor them until they are fully
fledged, confident flower arrangers. It is a wonderful ministry
with the benefit of newfound friendships. For a typical Sunday,
two team members meet on Saturday morning. Please contact
Flower Guild Chair Katherine Kyle if you would like
additional information at carsonkyle@gmail.com.
PASTORAL CARE AT ST. JOHN’S CHURCH
Praying for the sick and those in need is an important part of
our life together. We invite you to add yourself, family, or
friends to the parish prayer list. Other than birthdays,
anniversaries, and deaths, names added to the prayer list will
appear for four consecutive weeks. If you would like the name
to be on the prayer list for a shorter or longer period of time,
please let us know. We are listing in parentheses the name of
the person requesting prayers for family and friends who are not
members of the congregation. To add a name to the prayer
list, please contact the Rev. Andy Olivo at
andrew.olivo@stjohns-dc.org.
FLOWER DELIVERIES
Help brighten the day of parishioners who can’t be with us by
taking them flowers, located in the side chapel. A card is
attached to each vase with contact information. Thank you for
checking to see if a delivery address is convenient for you.
Flowers need to be delivered on Porter Street NW,
Washington, DC and Key Boulevard, Arlington, VA.
OUR PRAYERS are requested for the special needs and
concerns of this congregation, especially:
Those who are sick or recovering:
From our parish: Bobbie Falk, Kristie Hansen, KayAnn
Schoeneman, and Ken Starling.
Allen), Jim Bailey (Mike Becraft), Gianna Balerna (Judy
McKevitt), Carrie Nelle Moye Bannerman (Joanne Hutton),
John Frew Carter (Margo Arnold), Lane Carter, Ellen
Cromwell-Cecrle (Carolyn Becraft), Bill Clark (Clark Ervin),
William Frew Conderman (Margo Arnold), Dona Coultice
(Betty van Iersel), Sambar Datta (Ashley Culbertson), Henry
Farrington (Samuel Watson), Ted Fibison (Wendy Fibison),
Allison Gardner (Elizabeth Gardner), Tyrone Gayle (Jessica
Sanchez), Anne Harrington (Anne and Robert Harrington), Bob
Kingsnorth (Joanne Hutton), Redmond McNeill (Livy More),
Deborah Mason (Samuel Watson), Rosemary Mariner (Carolyn
Becraft), William Markiewicz (Matthew Taylor), Timothy
Mullins (Jim Mullins), Judy Nicola (Cynthia Walker), Luther
and Dorothy Nixon (Samuel Watson), Jerry O'Hagan (Lance
Jensen), Jonathan A.I. Olowu (Elizabeth Leach), Susie Pappas
(Alex Pappas), Lisa Pell (Mike Becraft), Candi Forester-Smith
(Michael Stratton), Sue Stubbs (Kaye Edwards), Jim Tatosian
(Pat Dalby), Judith Thomas (Geegee Bryant), Henry and Sandy
Welles (Donna Welles), Maya White, and Peter Winkler (Betty
van Iersel).
Friends and family of our parish: James Falk (Kathryn Falk),
Robert Hohman (Wendy Fibison), Julie Howell (Cynthia
Walker), Rose Leach (Elizabeth Leach), Betty Mauldin (Susan
Welch), Aiden Mylnikov (Lindsey Bowen), Sandra Wall
Tyndall (Michael J. Stratton), and Larry Watson (Catherine
Outten Olivo).
Friends and family of our parish: Richard Mazzur who died
May 8.
Karolina Arias, Lyle Elder, Jim Garland, Vivian Hanniford,
Charlotte Hantson, Susan Heil, Elizabeth Holdefer, Caroline
Huettner, McKenzie Jeffers, Nancy Klotz, Cynthia Malinick,
Abbott McCartney, Katie Montgomery, Harker Rhodes, Becky
Schergens, Leila Taaffe, Lilly Wall, and Paul Zehfuss.
Those in our parish celebrating an anniversary this week:
Elizabeth Lewis and David Abernethy, Christina and Matthew
Berlin, Judy Campbell Bird and Coleman Bird, Grace and
William Duthe, Joanne and Powell Hutton, Sara and Bill Josey,
and Jennifer Lehmann Weng and Henrik Lehmann Weng.
Please help us keep these lists updated by contacting the
clergy at St. John’s via email as soon as you can with
corrections, additions, and updates on status.
PROGRESS ON THE PARISH HOUSE RENOVATION
Outside, construction continues on the foundation for the new stairway on the east side of the
building. Work continues also on the repair of the roof flashing and slate shingles. Inside, the
hanging of the drywall stays on track on three floors, the kitchen floor slab is scheduled to be poured,
and the masonry wall of the elevator shaft rises past the first floor.
So far we have not seen any unexpected issues that would cause serious delay in our schedule. We
anticipate moving the staff back to the Parish House at the end of September. Full completion is
expected currently in mid-October.
This week Hospitality Hour will be in front of the church after the 10:30 a.m. service.
Our Sunday operations this week at the Hay-Adams will include Nursery at 9:15 a.m., and Summer
Church School at 10:30 a.m. (June 10-July 29), both in the Windsor Room (upstairs to the right as
you enter the Hotel).
ST. JOHN’S NURSERY AND CHURCH SCHOOL
St. John’s Nursery and Church School have undergone several changes during the renovation of the
Parish House, which began in January. We continue to keep your children safe, teach them the great
stories of the Hebrew scriptures and the gospel stories of Jesus, and involve them in worship.
The Nursery and Church School class are held on the first floor of the Hay-Adams Hotel.
Beginning May 20, the Nursery, for children under age three, is open from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The last day of class for the regular program for the Church School year was May 13. The Summer
church school multi-age class for students age three to those in fifth grade will meet from June 10 to
July 29 at 10:30 a.m. Church School students join their families for communion at the exchange of
the Peace.
The Hay-Adams Hotel is located on the corner of 16th and H Streets, directly across from the entrance
of the church. Space for the Nursery and Church School will not be available when the rooms at the
Hay-Adams are in use for special events. Please watch Sunday announcements and the weekly email
newsletter for updates. We will make every effort to notify you on a timely basis about other changes.
Students in grades six through 12 are encouraged to attend a worship service with their parents. This
will not only give children a chance to experience the full and rich liturgy of the Episcopal Church,
but also give them a chance to use their gifts in ministry during the service. High school students are
invited to take part in the service by acolyting, ushering, reading, and serving as chalice bearers.
Middle school students (grades six to eight) serve as acolytes with expanded duties.
To sign up for training sessions, to register for the Nursery and Church School, or for more
information, contact Kaye Edwards at 202-347-8766, ext. 317 or by email at
a warm welcome to St. John’s.
We are delighted to have you worship with us. Please let us know who you are and how we can best serve
you by filling out a “Welcome” card and leaving it in the offering plate or with an usher or greeter, and joining
us for the coffee hour following the service.
We welcome families with young children at our worship services. Children’s Worship Bulletins are
available from the ushers as you enter the nave. For parishioners and visitors alike, nursery care for children
under age three is provided on Sunday from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. We also offer Summer Church
School (June 10-July 29) during the 10:30 a.m. service for children ages three through ten.
All persons, including children, are invited to take part in the Holy Eucharist. Parents may decide if their
children receive the bread and/or wine. Children may instead signal their desire to be blessed by the priest at
the altar by crossing their arms across their chest.
Follow us on Instagram at @stjohnschurchlafayettesquare. See photos from St. John’s musical
performances, special events, meetings, Sunday services, and more. Relive the moment or experience it for
the first time through the touch of a button on your smartphone. Help St. John’s capture each moment by
___________________________________________________________________
FREE VALET PARKING FROM THE FRONT OF ST. JOHN’S FOR THE 10:30 A.M. SERVICE.
EXCEPT ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS, HOURS WILL BE 9:30 A.M. TO 1:00 P.M.
LOOK FOR THE VALET SIGN AT THE CORNER OF 16TH AND H STREETS.
HONOR YOUR LOVED ONES WITH FLOWERS
You can recognize your loved ones or a special event with a dedication in our Sunday bulletin when you make a
contribution to the Flower Fund. In doing so, you invite the congregation to participate in remembering a loved
one, a birth or birthday, or a wedding, anniversary, graduation, or other special event.
St. John’s Flower Guild lovingly arranges flowers each week for our Sunday services. You can choose to dedicate
the two main altar arrangements with a contribution of $110, the side chapel for $55, or the narthex for $55.
Or, you can dedicate all four arrangements in the church for $220.
Please contact the Parish Office at 202-347-8766 and send a check to St. John’s Church
Attention: Flower Fund, 1525 H Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005-1005, Fax 202-347-3446
(Circle one) In Memory of | Thanksgiving for | Celebration of: _______________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Thank you!
28
Welcome!
AT ST. JOHN’S CHURCH, we believe Christ is calling us to be a renewed church in a changing world. Empowered
by the Spirit of God, we respond to Jesus’ call as we deepen our bond with Christ through worship, become a
community where all are accepted, and work together as laity and clergy to do God’s work in the world.
ST JOHN’S WAS ORGANIZED IN 1815 to serve as a parish church for Episcopalians residing in the neighborhoods
in the west end of the District of Columbia. Its cornerstone was laid on September 14, 1815, and it was consecrated
on December 27, 1816. Beginning with James Madison, every person who has held the office of President of the
United States has attended a service at the church. Several Presidents have been communicants. Thus, St. John’s is
often referred to as the “Church of the Presidents.” Pew 54 is the President’s Pew. The architect of the church was
Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who assisted in the rebuilding of the U.S. Capitol and the White House after the War of
1812. Twenty-five of the stained glass windows in St. John’s were designed and executed by artisans of the noted
Lorin firm of Chartres, France.
BROCHURES DESCRIBING PARISH LIFE, the history of St. John’s, and the Episcopal denomination can be found
in the church entrance. If you are visiting, please fill out the visitor information card found at the end of each pew
to enable us to welcome you personally into the life of our parish.
ST JOHN’S WEBSITE WWW.STJOHNS-DC.ORG has up-to-date information about the Church including the weekly
calendar, the Sunday service schedule, Adult Forum speakers and topics, the music calendar and newsworthy events.
Vestry
Head Usher
Telephone 202 347-8766
fax 202 347-3446